INSIDE
Inside
Science helping ranchers, 18 Collman driven to win, 8A SERVING UNION AND WALLOWA CO U N T IES SINCE 1896
L~ ®
Follow us on the web i
•-
•
-
I
I
a ae e r
• SUV traveling on Observer staff The Oregon State Police is Curtis Road turned investigat ing atrain versus onto Miller Lane vehicle crash that left three dead near Union on Tuesday into path of afternoon. oncoming train The names of the three
occupants of the Jeep Cherokee involved in the incident had not been released by deadline. Police say that about 2:55 p.m. Tuesday, a Union Pacific Railmad train was traveling
a a
eastbound and approaching the Curtis Road and Miller Lane cmssing when, for unknown reasons, the SUV thatwas travelingeast on Curtis Road turned left onto Miller Lane and into the path of the train.
•
e
e
e
•
•
The train struck the vehicle, and all three occupants, as well as a dog, were ejected and pronounced deceased at the scene, according to an OSP release. OSP Sgt. Kyle Hove said
•
a
•
• e
police believe all three occupants were over the age of 18. Hove also said they have not been able to identify any witnesses to the crash, besidesthe train crew. See Crash / Page5A
t', NORTHEAST OREGON SNOWPACI
OREGON
CW CBT
rin s
By Kelly Ducote, The Observer
Old Man Winter has beengenerous to the driest parts of Oregon Snowp.ack totals as of this week show the entire state sitting above averagefor snow water equivalent, with the Owyhee basin at double its normal for this time ofyear, according to USDANatural Resources Conservation Service data posted Monday. SnaWlf SInrI hoowpach showa aswatarettuivateat aadasahasiowidepercaotage erthe 1981-2ttth reediao. Asnowyendof fall anel Dec. 28,2014 Bec. 28, 2015 beginning of winter has
soowpachtigurestor river basins aroondOregonall above
, tar r.
. ,t~ ~ ,
.
a~
87'/o
normal for this time of year.
96%
174%,
W Less than 56'/. W 50%-69% 70%-$9%
191%
o o ~ 90/o-109/o R 110'/o-129% 130i%-149% M Mere tlhsR150%
209'/o~
192/
179%
+ 16'/o,
79/'
31%
lamSthF$ s L k
'That tells us we've gotten quite a bit of fairly wet snow in that area," said NRCS District Conservationist Mike Burton, who works out of the La Grande office. While Northeast Oregon basins aren't seeing numbers as high as 216 percent
Grea Cross/The Bulletin
Tell us what you think.
INDEX
WE A T H E R Horoscope.....6B Record ...........3A Lottery............3A Sports ............SA Movies...........3A Sudoku ..........3B Obituaries......3A Wallovva Life..sA Opinion..........4A Wondervvord... 3B
•
-
•
•
•
•
•
•
-
•
•
•
•
• After 2 dry years, deep snow a welcome sight By Jayson Jacoby WesCom News Service
Tim Mustoe/The Observer
The summit of Mount Emily is covered over by one of the many snowstorm clouds that have come through the Grande Ronde Valley earlier this month. The snowpack in the Grande Ronde, Powder, Burnt and Imnaha basins stands at 136 percent of normal, according to officials.
"The lOnger WeCaneXtend thiS WetPeriOd, the better Off We're gOing to be. WeCanbe hOPeful. It'S lOOking gOOd." — Mike Burton, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service District Conservationist
F ull forecast on the back of B section
Tonight
Thursday
8 Low
25/2
Partlycloudy
Mostlysunny
•
•
•
w
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
stop m
•
•
Baker County boasts about 1,000 miles of snowmobile trails.
CONTACT US
HAVE A STORY IDEA?
541-963-3161
Call The Observer newsroom at 541-963-3161 or send an email to news@lagrandeobserver.com. More contact info on Page 4A.
tt
51 1 5 3 0 0 1 00
•
e •
e
Issue 154 3 sections, 48 pages La Grande, Oregon
•
© Experiencts Exceptional Care.
•
•
BAKER CITY — The yardstick has resumed its customary role as the necessary snow-measuring device for a couple of Baker County's more blizzard-prone towns. The past few winters, by contrast, the puny ruler, the foot-long instrument that elementary students store in their pencil boxes, would have suffi ced tokeep track of snow depths in Sumpter and Halfway. This year, though, to See Drift / Page5A
Plenty of trails
And happy, beallhybeads.
•
•
•000
Give your opinion~ on this -.
Meet Emilia Aden, DO, FACC. An dmpert in cardiology.
•
•
•
•
)
Baker County getting the drift
c.
•
' •
te
A host of new laws will be on the books for 2016, including severalthatsparked vigorous debate during the last legislative session. From a new law that allows women to obtain birth controlprescriptions straight from a pharmacist — House Bill 2879 — to a grandparent'srightsedictthatpermits grandparents to remain in their grandchildren's lives if parent's parentalrights are halted, Oregonians will face a swarm of new mandates in 2016. Laws configured toward law enforcement — for example — include 13 new mandates. Some of the key new laws revolve around such items as See Laws / Page5A
EASTERN OREGON
FRIDAY IN OUTDOORS 5. REC HITTING THE WEIGHTS IN 2016
•
For The Observer
WWW,LA GANDEOBSERVER,COM
"If El ¹lno holds true and we don't get as much moisture, we'll see these percentages steadily drop with time," iowyheel and 209 iHarneyl, Burton said. There's a chance, though, snowpack levels are above average in the Grande that some variation in the El ¹lno pattern could help Ronde, Powder, Burnt and Imnaha basins at 136 perpreservethe positive trend. At least onemeteorologist, cent of normal. Burton said the numbers RobertQuinn, a profesaregood signs fortheregion. sor at Eastern Washington 'Traditionally the last University, told a group at week of December is our first the Oregon Seed Growers real measurement of snowLeague this month that he believes the El ¹no pattern pack percentage. It's a good will produce excessive rain start," Burton said. But those at the NRCS for the Pacific Northwest, the know there's a lot more CapitalPressreported. winter to go, and a lot could For now, Burton said he change with El ¹no in the remains "cautiously optimismix. tic." "The longer we can extend Accordingtoforecasters with the National Weather thiswet period,the betteroff Service in Pendleton, El ¹no we're going to be," he said. ''We can be hopeful. It's looktraditionally brings more lng good. participation early in the Elsewhere in Eastern season. That precipitation tendstotaperoffinto a dryer, Oregon, the outlook is warmer second half of winter equally as optimistic. for Northeast Oregon. See Snow / Page 5A
•
+167'/ .121'/ g...
latrnath F s Lakatttel
Source: Natuiral Resources Conservation Service
Business........1B Classified.......4B Comics...........3B Crossword.....6B Dear Abby ... 10B
ea%
online
By Pat Caldwell
•
•000
•000
e
2A —THE OBSERVER
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
LOCAL
OREGON
Do youwant to build a snowman?
State
garners high
'$0,s
marks • Oregon ranks high for animal protect ion laws
.illg
By Chris Thomas t
Oregon News Service
V
C Tim Mustoe/TheObserver
A snowman stands alone outside a playground in Riverside Park Monday afternoon in La Grande.
EASTERN OREGON
More foster parents needed By Jade McDowell East Oregonian
PENDLETON — Eastern Oregon needs more foster homes, and some people might be bettersuited to be foster parents than they think. Jody Frost, child welfare line manager for the Department of Human Services, saidpeople tend toenvision a traditional nuclear family, but single people, domestic partners and same-sex couplesarewe lcomed too. "Maybe the child, because of what they've been through, would do better without a parent of the opposite sex in the home," she said.".. .W eneed avariety of families because we have a variety ofkids." Frost said DHS workers try hard to send children to a home that will best fit their needs, so it is important that potential foster parents are open and honest about their situations. They might think that admitting they were abused as a child could make them seem like a less worthy candidate, for example, when in reality it could help them be more empathetic toward a child who comes from a similarly abusive home. ''We want to know your
"Maybe the child, becauseof what they've been through, would do better without a parent fothe opposite sexin the home."Weneeda variety of families because wehave a variety of kids." — Jody Frost, child welfare line manager for the Department of Human Services
struggles, "Frostsaid."Ifwe don't know the struggles your family is facing we could be setting everyone up for disaster." She saidfosterparents ofalltypesare needed,but thereisa specialneed for more Hispanic families who will make the transition easier for a child removed from a Spanish-speaking, Latino-culture home. People willing to take in teenagers and people willing to take in sibling groups are also in high demand. Once someone contacts DHS and volunteers to be a fosterparent,they have to go through a screening process, a four-week training course and a home certification process. Afterthey'recleared to beginacceptingfoster children they could get a call any day saying a child or sibling group has just been removed from a home and needs housing immediately. Frost said due to the nature of situations that re-
quire removing a child from their home, "99 percent of the time it's just the clothes on their backs," sending fosterparentsscrambling to pull together clothing and othersuppliesfor the child or sibling set. There are individuals and organizations in the community who are generous in helping provide those items, Frostsaid,and fosterparents do get a clothing voucher from thestateaspartof theirstipend.Frostsaid the stipendism eanttoprovide money for the care of the children, she said, and not as income forthe fosterparents. "If you're doing it right you won't have any left over," she said. For anyone interested in possiblybecoming afoster parent, a state foster care specialist can be called at 1-800-331-0503 can answer initial questions and connect interested individuals to the right person in their local DHS office.
PORTLAND — Oregon is a"top dog" for animal protectionbut could bedoingbetter, accordingto areportthat summarizes the 2015 animal welfare laws by state. The Animal Legal Defense Fund ranks Oregon second only to Illinois for making cruelty, neglect and animal fighting all felony offenses. However, some of Oregon's laws lack teeth, says Summer Marasco co-founder of the group Portland Animal Welfare Advocates. She points out there are few requirements for reporting cruelty or sentencing those who have been convicted. 'The problem in the legal system in general is, if it's not mandatory, and it's always caseby case,it'salwaysmore diKcult," says Marasco."Becausethen,itreally depends on how much press or media a certaincasegetsthattheprosecution will take it further." M arasco saysa billto end the controversialpractice of retail pet-leasing might resurface in the 2016 Legislature after not gaining traction last year. She adds, Oregon's animal-cruelty laws apply mostly to companion animals, and says more could be doneforlivestock. Staff attorney Lora Dunn with the Animal Legal Defense Fund says another step Oregon could take is to require the agencies that seizeanimals in these cases to recover the money it takes to treat them. "It's really important in thesecasesto getsome of thosecostsofcarethatreally rack up to be really exorbitant amounts, to get those costsback to the care-giving agencies, so they can continue to help other animals in need," says Dunn.
G,eat Values Store-wide Starts this
Week
Iiaking room tor 2GSS
models
gpholst«Y I Select Iiattresses
q 2ot<
Grande Ronde Hospital is proud to welcome to our Medical Staff
Emilia Arden, DO, Cardiologist
Come in to see what geal's right
Specialties: • Women and Heart Disease • Dysautonomia (Postural Orthostatic
Tachycardia Syndrome — POTS) • Heart Disease in Oncology Patients • Pacemaker Implantation and Management • Preventionist specializing in: o Dysrhythmia control o Hypertension o Metabolic Syndrome o Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Dr. Arden comes to Grande Ronde Hospital from Northwest Cardiology in Portland. She earned her Fellowship in Cardiovascular Disease from Oakwood Southshore Medical Center in Michigan, and completed both her Residency and Internship at Providence St. Vincent Medical Center in Portland. She received her Doctorate of Osteopathic Medicine from Midwestern University, and her Undergraduate degree
fol' You. QjQi •
•
E~ j(jg 4ygpg po GRH Cardiology Clinic Seeing patients mid-January 2016 The Cardiology Clinic does not require a referral to be seenby Dr. Arden.
Dr. Arden is a member of the following professional societies: • American College of Cardiology • American Society of Echocardiography • American Society of Nuclear Cardiology • American College of Osteopathic Internists • American Osteopathic Association
Experience Exceptional Care. c= l."ll'": l " •000
•
•000
0
0
~
g
0
215 Elm Street LaGrande (541) 963-5440
XOcoOR
HIO ~I7LtiILiBÃ !tilijKllltijlMII~XCM.K~lH •000
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
DAILY PLANNER
LOCAL BRIEFING From stag reports
Nile Club meets Monday morning
TODAY Today is Wednesday, Dec. 30, the 364th day of 2015. There is one day left in the year.
The Union County Nile Club will meet Monday. The meeting will begin at11:30 a.m. at the Golden Harvest Restaurantin La Grande.
Class of '47 invites classof'46 to lunch The La Grande High School class of 1947 will meet for
lunch at noon Thursday, at the Flying JTruck Stop. Members ofthedass of1946 areinvited to join the reunion lunch.
Help kids cope with divorce, separation Learn how divorce or separation impacts your children and what you can do to help them at a workshop offered from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tues-
day, in the Misener Conference Room,1001 Fourth St., La Grande. The workshop is facilitated by Mary Lu Pierce and sponsored by the Family Law Advisory Committee.
Cost is $30 per person icash or check only). The fee may be waived by prior order ofthecourt,orifattendance occurs prior to or within 45 days of filing for custody, dis-
On Dec. 30, 1940, California's first freeway, the Arroyo Seco Parkway connecting Los Angeles and Pasadena, was officially opened.
ON THIS DATE In 1853, the United States and Mexico signed a treaty under which the U.S. agreed to buy some 45,000 square miles of land from Mexico for $10 million in a deal known as the Gadsden Purchase. In 1922, Vladimir I. Lenin proclaimed the establishment of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, which lasted nearly seven decades before dissolving in Dec. 1991. In 1999, former Beatle George Harrison fought off a knife-wielding intruder who'd broken into his mansion west of London and stabbed him in the chest. In 2006, Iraqis awoke to news that Saddam Hussein had beenhanged;victims of his three decades of autocratic rule took to the streets to celebrate.
LOTTERY Megabucks: $4.8 million
2-5-9-12-22-31 Powerball: $300 million
27-40-44-59-65-20x2 Win for Life: Dec. 28
31-47-69-75 Pick 4: Dec. 28 • 1 p.m .: 1-0-8-6 • 4 p.m.: 7-2-7-2 • 7 p.m.: 8-3-8-1 • 10 p.m.: 0-4-0-5 Pick 4: Dec. 29 • 1 p.m.: 8-3-0-6 • 4 p.m.: 9-4-3-1 • 7 p.m.: 1-9-5-4 • 10 p.m.: 3-4-9-3
ROAD REPORT Numbers to call: • Inside Oregon: 800-977-6368. • Outside Oregon: 503-588-2941.
GRAIN REPORT Soft white wheatDecember, $5.35; January, $5.35; February, $5.38 Hard red winterDecember, $5.63; January, $5.63; February, $5.63 Dark northern springDecember, $6.14; January, $6.14; February, $6.19 — Bids provided by Island City Grain Co.
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,delivery should 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 "The meek shall inherit the earth — if that's all right with you." — Author unknown
SH O W
I
T I M E S 5 4 1-963-3866
lagrandemoviea.com
JOYP alII
DAILY: 4:00,6:50,9:20
D AD DY'SHOM E(PGl3) DAILY: 4:IO,7:00,9:20
Della M. Swanson Union
Della M. Swanson, 79, of Union, died Dec. 28 at a local care facility. An obituary will be published at a later time. Loveland Funeral Chapel & Crematory will be handling the arrangements.
Martin L Ricks Pendleton
Martin Lewis Ricks, 96, of Pendleton and formerly ofLaGrande,died Dec. 17 ata carefacility.Arrangements will be announced later by Daniels - Knopp Funeral, Cremation & Life Celebration Center.
Deanna D. Frye La Grande 1952-2015
Deanna D. Frye, 63, of La Grande, died Dec. 20 at her residence. A viewing will be held from 9 a.m. to
Candidates speak at Republican meeting A Union County Republican
Central Committee meetingis scheduled for noon Wednesday at the Flying J Truck Stop. Speakers will be Union County Commissioner candidates Mark Davidson, the incumbent, Troy Pointer and Charles Gillis. PCPs are encouraged to attend to nominate and elect a new County Chair. For more information, contact Jennifer at 541-786-2245.
a flagger for Weaver Construction. Deanna enjoyed shopping, gardening, golfing and watching football. She was a member of the Catholic Church. Her home was often occupied with dogs and cats she had rescued. She was preceded in death by her parents, Roy and Irene, and sons, Brian Frye and Jeff Frye. information, call 541-910-5m. Survivors include her husband, Deanna was born Oct. 31, 1952, in Alfred Frye Sr. of La Grande; children Klamath Falls to Roy F. and Irene E. and their partners, Alfred Jr. and iPastegal Durbin and graduated from Laura Frye of La Grande, Aaron and Klamath Union High School. She Laurie Frye of La Grande, Teresa married Alfred Frye Sr., and their Michaels of Redding, California, family say they lived a life full oflove Janice and Jim Curtiss of Vancouver, and laughter. Washington, and Brad and Amy Frye Deanna was employed as a cusof Powell, Wyoming; brother, John tomer service specialist at Bi-Mart Durbin of Klamath Falls; two nieces; and 21 grandchildren, 34 greatCorp., where she earned many customer service awards. She enjoyed grandchildren, and one great-greatworking with her coworkers and grandchild. thought of them as her second family. Online condolences may be made Prior to working at Bi-Mart, she was to the family at www.lovelandfuneral 10 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m., Jan. 2 at Loveland Funeral ChapeL Following the service, Frye a po t luck lunch will be held at the Union County Senior Center. Attendees are asked to bring a salad or a side dish. For more
chapel.com.
Klarys P. I.eggat Formerly of La Grande 1923-2015
Klarys P. Leggat, 92, formerly of La Grande, died Dec. 19. A funeral service was held Dec. 29 at Harry J. Will Funeral Home in Redford, Michigan. Klarys was born Aug. 23, 1923, to Ralph and Olive Paxton in La Grande, where she was raised. She was married to the late Angus Bruce Leggat for 47 years. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph and Olive Paxton; husband, Angus Leggat; and children, Linda and Daniel. Survivors include her children, Ralph Leggat, Steven Leggat and his wife, Joanne, Scott Leggat and Carol Leggat; and two grandchildren. Online condolences may be left at www.harryjwillfuneralhome.com.
Panercranesdeliveredinrememhranceoivictims hospitaliM at the Himshima Red Cmss Hospital before her
By Carisa Cegavske Roseburg News-Review
death, Sasaki folded 1,000of
ROSEBURG —About three weeks ago, First Christian Church in Roseburg received an unusual gift. It came via Federal Express, in a package about 3 feet wide and 3 feet long, and weighing almost nothing. Office manager Diane Welch recalls wondering what it was. They hadn't ordered anything. She opened it up to discoverlotsofpiecesof colorful folded paper. Lifting a string at the top she pulled and pulled, and pulled some more. What came out was a stringof1,000 origami peace cranes — a gift from the First Congregational Church of Santa Barbara, California. As in Roseburg, the residents of Santa Barbara know what it is like to experience a community tragedy. Six people were murdered in May 2014, when a deranged gunman stabbed threepeopleathisapartment before rampaging through the beach community of Isla Vista, killing three more and, finally, himself. It's a story that sounds all too familiar here in Roseburg, a community still healing from the Oct. 1 shooting at Umpqua Community College, in which eight students and a teacher were murdered by a gunman who also turned his gun on himself.
/
f /'
Michael Sullivan/The News-Reviewrna AP
First Christian Church pastor Daniel Mallipudi holds a string of origami cranes displayed at the Roseburg church. The cranes, 1,000 in all, were folded by members of the First Congregational Church of Santa Barbara, California. "As a community that has gone through our own journey of pain and sorrow after the shooting in Isla Vista ... we stand with you in this difficult time," the Rev. Allysa De Wolf of the Santa Barbara church wrote in a letter accompanying the cranes.'We are sending you these peace cranes as a sign and testament to our hope for peace in our world and belie fthatviolencedoes not have the last word." The cranes have been placed on top of a coatrackin the First Christian Church's sanctuary, and drape down the rack forming a shape thatresembles
a small Christmas tree. They havebeenfolded from papers in arainbow ofcolors and m anypatterns, from stripesto stars to polka dots. "It's so amazing that someone cares so much for our community that theywould put so much workinto this just so we could feel their love and prayers for peace,"Welch said.'You can almost feel the prayers whenyou look atit. When you'm just quiet, looking atit,you feel it. I picture them saying a prayer with each fold." "It was kind of overwhelming when we received it," said First Christian's pastor, the Rev.
Daniel Mallipudi. He said he thought of all the hands and all the time it took to make them, as well as the prayers they said when theymade them. The church will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday this week, and on Sunday during church services, for those who would like to view the cranes. Peace cranes are aninternational symbol originatingfrom the storyof a little girl born in 1943 in Hiroshima, Japan. Sadako Sasaki was 2 years old when the atom bomb was dropped on her city. She died of leukemia 12 years later. While
the cranes because she was told of an old Japanese legend that anyone who folds 1,000 paper cranes will be granted a wish. The cranes have since become a symbolofawish forpeace. The Santa Barbara church's gift is part of a more recent tradition of churches supporting each other in the wake of a seriesofthekindoftragedies that have become all too familiar in recentyears. De Wolf, the minister of the First Congregational Church of Santa Barbara, brought 1,000 paper cranes with her when she moved there from a church in Newtown, Connecticut. Newtown is the city where 20 children and six adult stafFmembers were murdered at Sandy Hook Elementary School in 2012. According to the letter sent to the Roseburgchtnch, De Wolfs churchin Newtown received 1,000 cranes fiom Pilyim Christian Chtnch in Chardon, Ohio, which had experiencedatragicshooting at a high school where tlnee students were slainin 2012. The Newtown church sent those cranes to a Boston church after the Boston Marathon bombing in 2013, anditfolded anew set to send with De Wolf to Santa Barbara. Then, after the UCC shooting, the Santa Barbara church foldedyet another set to send to Roseburg.
PUBLIC SAFETY REPORT LA GRANDE POLICE Arrested: Damon Lee Sevens,40, unknown address, was arrested Monday while lodged in the Union County Jail on a Union County secret indictment warrant charging unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. Cited: Phillip Rat Myers,54, La Grande, was criminally cited Monday on a charge of thirddeg ree theft. Accident: No one was injured in a crash at Fourth Street and H Avenue Tuesday morning. Arrested: Jared James Whipple, 30, unknown address, was arrestedTuesday while
La GRANDE AUTOREPAIR
SF5-2888 tNtNw.lagrandeautorepair.com
h,t
,
IIARI RII'IIIIFO R C II A KII(PGl3)
DAILY :3:45,6:45(2D),9:30(3D) • 0 •
solution, separation ormo dification. Support persons and community members may attendfreeofcharge. The workshop is for adults only, and child care is not provided. For more information, call 541-962-9500, ext. 2228.
OBITUARIES
TODAY'S HIGHLIGHT
/
THE OBSERVER —3A
LOCAL
MOST ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY AVAILABLE
lodged in the Union County Jail on a Union Countywarrant charging first-degree failure to appear. Arrested: Cornelio John Spronk, 29, La Grande, was arrestedTuesday on a Union County secret indictment warrant charging third-degree rape (two counts) and second-degree sexual abuse (two counts).
UNION COUNTY SHERIFF Arrested: Shirley Ann Kleng, 35, La G ra nde, was a rrested Monday on a Union County Circuit Court warrant charging unauthorized use of a vehicle, unlawful entry of a motor ve-
hicle and third-degree theft.
LA GRANDE FIRE AND AMBULANCE Crews responded to eight medical calls Monday and nine medical calls Tuesday.
Make your financial future a priority.
Mowers
MQ,R,KIXl5 out frnnt mowing
Sales & Service Commercial & Residential
Gary FAnger,AAMS® Financial Advisor 1910 AdamsAva P0 BoxBBO La Grande, OR 97B50 541-963-0519
Small Engines Kohler & Kawasaki Dealer Servicing All Brands
www.thunderrv.com Wayne
www.edwardjones.com
Shop Manager
All Outdoor Power
w
Edwardjolles MAKING SENSE OFINVESTING •
Joe Horst
Arrested: Shane Lee Campbell, 48, unknown address, was arrestedTuesday on a Union County warrant charging failure to appear on original charges of second- and third-degree theft. Campbell was additionally arrested on a charge of thirddeg ree theft.
•
ACDelcoTSS
•
• 0
s
•
'
' '
• .
.
•
•
'
:
I
MemberSIPC
888-532-3422 541-962-2975 10401 S. Walton Rd. La Grande
• 0
•
THE WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
SERVING UNION AND WALLOWA COUNTIES SINCE I666
The Observer
GUEST EDITORIAL
I ~T ~ A HY
qfP,l@l~ ygPR ' ygR
tioT
Editorial from (Eugene) Register-Guard:
The omnibus spending bill that passed Congress last week was locomotive big and important enough to pull forward other pieces oflegislation attached to it. One of those other bills should have been a Klamath Basin water agreement. But the Klamath proposal was left on a siding and may never get back on track. AKlamath bill was needed to implement an ageem ent reached in 2010 among farm, fishing and environmental interests, government agencies, Pacific Power 8~ Light Co., NativeAmerican tribes and others. These groups came together to fmd away to share the water of the Klamath River. It was a seeminglyimpossible task. Astonishingly, the talks succeeded. The agreement involved a series oftrade-ofKs.PPE~L ageed to remove four dams &om the Klamath River, as long as ratepayers and California taxpayers paid for their demolition. Farmers pledged to use less water in exchange for aguarantee ofminimum amounts of water during droughts. Three of the four tribes accepted diversions ofwater for irrigation, provided that water volumes were adequate to support fish populations. These and other aspects of the complex deal promised to restore a &ee-flowing Klamath River, strengthen animportant fishery, protect tribal rights and put apiculture on a secure ifreduced footing. Congressional action was needed before the deal's Jan. 1 expiration date. Congress'support was never assured — localgovernment officials in both states have opposed the deal, one of the Indian tribes never signed on and agricultural interests were always threatening to back out. The strongest opposition came &om members of Congress, mostly Republicans, who fear that dam removal on the Klamath would tip the first domino, resulting in dam removals on rivers throughout the West. That fear is misplaced. The Klamath dams don't produce much electricity, and their fish passage facilities are poor — both of which will make it diKcult and expensive for PPE~L to relicense the dams. Even without the Klamath agreement, the utility would be considering removal as an option. Yet to placate critics of dam removal, Rep. Greg Walden, the Republican who represents the Oregon portion of the Klamath Basin, offered a bill three weeks ago that did not include dam removal. Walden's
bill also proposed giving 100,000 acres of federal land to Klamath County in Oregon and Siskiyou County in California as a source of timber revenue. The tribes would not support a bill that leR the dams in place. Democratic Sens. Ron Wyden and JeA' Merkleysaid a federalland grant would go nowhere in the Senate. So the omnibus spending bill passed without Klamath water legislation attached, leaving no hope of meeting the Jan. 1 deadline. The parties ought to extend the agreement inhopes of congressional action nextyear. It's more likely, however, that some of them will turn to the courts, arguing that they have a legal right to river water daimed by others. The result, particularly in a dryyear, will be irrigation water shuto6s, fish kills or both. Congress will be to blame for letting an opportunity slip, and Walden will be accountable for delivering the final blow.
. l6
~~AQ
~yw.
Oy vey. Enoug of Donald Trump ei Gezunt, Lindsey Graham. The Republican senator &om South Carolina had good reasons to quit the Republican presidential race, as he did last week. He had succeeded in his goal of making the rest of the field more hawkish. He avoided an embarrassing defeat in his home-state primary. And, in leaving, he is being a mensch.
Z
VOURlAKE NOST ONI.INE POll VIEWEB POI.I. RESUITS STORIES Here is an excerpt from the talked about stories on www. lagrandeobserver.com. To read more and to add your own comments, log onto www.lagrandeobserver.com. Excerpts appear as they were submitted.
The stories drawing the most traffic on www. lagrandeobserver.com 1."Multiple accidents leave two dead" by Cherise Kaechele 2. "Man arrested after pursuit" by Observer staff 3. "Police arrest one in flag incident" by Kelly Ducote 4. "Pot will not be sold in Cove" by Dick Mason
MIIITIPI.EACCIDN ETS lHLVETWO DHLD Got a few good pics my self as I was chaining up of this wreck and a few more. Really got to slow down people
HE BSERVER541-963-3161 Phone:
NEWSSTAND PRICE: $1.00 Youcansave upto 34% offthe single-copy pnce with home delivery. Call 541-963-3161 to subscnbe. Stopped account balances less than $5 w>ll be refunded upon request. $8.50 $9.50 ..$14 ..$14 ..$15
A division of
Western Communications Inc.
•
Tuesday's Qummpiac poll finds Trump with 28 percent and Cruz at 24, with Marco Rubio, who polls best among mainstream candidates, way back at 12. But it; say, Rubio were to gain the support of those backing Chris Christie i6 percent), Jeb Bush i4 percent), Carly Fiorina i2 percent), John Kasich i1 percent) and the various candidates scoring bupkis in the poll, he'd be neck-and-neck with Trump. Republican strategists I've talked with believe voters would flock to Rubio ifhe weretoriseabove20percentin thepolls — areasonable possibility, given that 58 percentof Republican voters who named a candidate in the Quinnipiac survey said theymightchange their minds. The sooner otherRepublican candidatesleavetherace, the better the chances of them presenting voters with a unified alternative to Trump. Graham hasn't endorsed another candidateyet,butheseemed to appreciate the stakes."This is not a reality show," he said.'This is an election for the heart and soul of the Republican Party." Right. So why an' .so many other Republicanleaderslookingsofarblondzhet iconfused) and serving as Trump's shnooks and shlubs while voters fall for Trump's shvindel? Genugiz genug, Republicans: Enoughis enough. End the shpilkes and tsoresandsettleon aresponsible alternative who can cutTrump down to size with perhaps the gieatest Yiddish aphorism of all: Du kannstnicht aufmeinem rucken pishen unt mir sagen dass es regenist. You can't pee on my back and tell me that it's raining.
THISWEEK: Do you . LASTWEEK: Will you make avoidtravelinginwinter . N ewYear'sresolutionsfor weather? 2016?
logonto
ULGRNDE OBSER VER.COM
to letus knowwhat:: youthink
THE RESULTSARE: No Yes I don't know
13.5% 24.5% 2%
TOTAL VOTES: 49
STAFF
SUBSCRIBE ANDSAVE
• 0
SYNDICATEDCQLUMNIST
mighthave opted to give Trump some classic and colorfulYiddish advice:"Gai kaken oifenyam" — go defecate in the ocean. Covering the insult-o-rama that is Specifically, he is helping his Repub- the Trump campaign is a soul-draining lican Party avoid getting shtupped by undertaking, calling to mind another Donald Trump. Yiddishism: "Darf min gehn in kolledg?" Or make that"schlonged."Trump, in his But since Trump has started us on latest bit ofnarishkeit, proclaimed Monday this tour of Yiddishkeit, it's worth noting night that ~ Cli n ton got"schlonged" that Yiddish insults are custom-tailored by Barack Obamain their 2008 contest. for the overbearing and boorish gantseh Thus did Trump bastaidize a Yiddish noun macher that Trump has made ofhimself for penis ®teraily, serpent) by turrmgit He's a shmegegi and a mamzer, a fabinto a verb in fiont of 7,500 people and mil- recher and a nudnik with a lot of chutzlions more who would see iton TV. pah. Sorry, you11 have to look those up. Oyveyiz mir! What aputz! Graham said he would back Trump No wonder half of U.S. voters would be over Clinton if the mogul wins the primaembarrassedto haveTrump as presiries.'Tm going to support the Republican dent, according to a new Quinnipiac Uni- nominee," he said in his sole interview, versity poll. In the"schlonged" speech, with CNN. Bist meshugeh? Are you nuts? Trump also called it"disgusting" that But Graham also said Trump won't Clinton, who would be the first woman beat Clinton"without some major to bepresident,took a too-longbathroom adjustments." Graham suggested that break during the Democratic debate. Trump might be able to "re-evaluate" Mygrandmother, were she alive, would and "adjust" his candidacy. Uh-huh. Az have had a choice phrase for such a vulgar- di bobevoltgehatn beytsim voltzigeven ian: Shemen zichin dein veiten haldz. mayn zeyde:Ifm y grandmother had Literally, this translates as"you should testicles she would be my grandfather. Though Graham didn't cite this be ashamed in your far neck," but that doesn't quite convey the deep contempt the reason in withdrawing his candidacy, his speaker has for the schmuck who commit- departurefurthersthe urgent processof ted such a shandeh un a charpeh ishame consolidating support behind a consenand disgrace).Alternatively, mybubbe sus Republican alternative to Trump.
SUBSCRIPTIONINFORMATION
Subscription rates per month: By carner By motor carner By ma>l, Un>onCounty By ma>l,Wallowa County By ma>l, all other U.S
DANA MILBANK
An independent newspaperfoundedin 1896
(USPS 299-260j The Observer reserves the nght to ad]ust subscnpt>on rates by g>v>ngprepa>dand ma>lsubscnbers 30 days not>ce. Penod>calspostage pa>dat La Grande, Oregon 97850. Publ>shed Mondays, Wednesdays and Fr>days (except Dec. 25) byWestern Commun>cat>ons lnc., 1406 F>fth St., La Grande, OR97850 (USPS299-260)
Toll free (Oregon): 1-800-422-3110 Fax: 541-963-7804 Email: news©lagrandeobserver.com Website: www.lagrandeobserver.com Streetaddress: 1406 F>fth St., La Grande
POSTMASTER COPYRIGHT ©2015 THE OBSERVER The Observer retains ownership and copynght protection of all staff-prepared news copy, advertising copy, photos and news or ad illustrations. They may not be reproduced without explicit pnor approval.
Sendaddresschangesto: The Observer, 1406 F>fthSt. La Grande, OR97850 Periodicalspostagepaid at: La Grande, Oregon 97850
• 0
•
Regional publisher........................... Kari Borgen Circulation district manager...... ZaqMendenhall Publisher/editor............................Andrew Cutler Customerservice rep .................Cindie Crumley General manager/ Multimedia advertising rep...... BrantMcWiliams Regional operations director.......Frank Everidge Advertising representative...................Kelli Craft Circulation director................Carolyn Thompson Advertising representative..................KarenFye Regional advertising director.... Karrine Brogoitti Graphic designersupervisor........ Dorothy Kautz Office manager.........................Tracy Robertson Graphic designer.......................Cheryl Christian Assistant editor............................... Kelly Ducote Lead pressman....................................... TCHull Sports editor................................. JoshBenham Pressman......................................... Chris Dunn Sports writer/outdoor editor ........... RonaldBond Pressman.......................................Dino Herrera Go! editor/design editor Reporter........................................... Dick Mason Distribution centersupervisor............. JonSilver Reporter/photographer...........Cherise Kaechele Distribution center........................Terry Everidge Multimedia editor............................. TimMustoe Distribution center............................ LarraCutler Classifieds .........................................Erica Perin Distribution center.......................... Sally Neaves Circulation acct. rep......................oavid Barcala Distribution center.......................Jen Gentleman .... CarissaMcGee Circulation Assistant............... Desiree Kaufman Distribution center.....
• 0
•
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
THE OBSERVER — 5A
LOCAL
DRIFT
They moved to Baker County from North Dakota, astaterenowned foritsferoContinued from Page1A cious blizzards. 'You learntodressforit," plunge a ruler into a drift in eitherplacewould be torisk Anne said. losing the thing until spring. She points out that the 'This isgetting to bea snow is much deeper in the normal winter, instead of mountains near Halfway, being almost a drought," said a boon for Baker County's Leland Myers, who has lived drought-depletedstreams in Sumpter for about half a and reservoirs. cWe sure do need the century. Myers said the snow depth snowpack,"Anne said. reached30 inches earlierthis That winter reservoir, month before settling slightly. which will supply water Two and a half feet of snow next spring and summer for would of course qualify as an irrigation, recreation and abnormal accumulation of wildlife, hasn't been this deep snow in most places. in Baker County, at the end of But prodigious snows are the calendar year, since 1998. among the climatic characAn automated snow-meateristics that define Sumpter, suring station at Schneider 28 miles southwest of Baker M eadows, severalmiles north of Ha5vay, is reportCity, and Halfway, 53 miles northeast. ing 66 inches of snow with a Each town owes its snowy water content of 18.1 inches. That's the highest reading reputation largely to its proximity to mountains — the for the site, on the penultiElkhorns in Sumpter's case, mate day of the year, since the Wallowas in Halfway's. 1998, when the water content Both ranges are tall was 22 inches. enough, with peaks surpassSeveral other measuring sites around the county and ing 9,000 feet, to intercept moisture-laden Pacific region have similar statistics. storms and wring out much Eilertson Meadow, in the of their precipitation. Elkhorns west of Haines, has a water content of 6.2 inches, Ha5vay, for instance, gets the most there on this date an average of 21.4 inches of moisture annually — almost since 1998. At Bourne and Gold Cenexactly twice as much as the Baker City Airport. ter, both near Sumpter, the Sumpter also has an eleva- water content is the highest tionadvantage over most since2001 forthisdate. But the value of deep snow towns in Baker County. doesn't lie solely in the water At 4,400 feet — 1,000 feet higher than Baker City it will supply months from — Sumpter's winter temnow. More immediately the peratures typically are cold enough for snow. amplesnow has createdideal Ha5vay, though, stands an conditions for snowmobilers. They're a vital source of outlier to the usual highermeans-snowier situation. wintertime tourism dollars Its elevation is modest, at forthe area,and in particular for Sumpter. 2,600 feet. But its location, cWe're starting to get quite hard against the southern wall of the Wallowas, puts a few snowmobilers coming Halfway and the surroundthrough," said Kathy Reedy, ing Pine Valley in one of the who owns the Depot Inn motel in Sumpter. usual paths of mountainThe Sumpter Valley Blue steered snowstorms. Anne Shields has watched Mountain Snowmobile Club has groomed about 400 miles a considerable number of of trails, including routes those storms since she and her husband, Bill, moved to in the Greenhorn area and Halfway in 1989. Granite areas, Hale Ranch, Anne said the current elk feeding grounds, Skyline, situation — 18 inches to two and the Sumpter Dredge State Park. feet of snow on the groundfeels, and looks, familiar. Sumpter's allure for snow'This year is more like mobilers isn'tjust the extenwhen we the winters when sive network of groomed trails. we first moved out here," she Because it's legal to ride snowmobiles on city streets, sald. Knee-deep snow the last riders can literally walk outsideand starttheirtrips week of December is hardly — no need to load snowmounusual. "My goodness, we remem- biles on a trailer and drive to ber one Thanksgiving when a trailhead. Baker County boasts we had three feet of snow," Anne said.cWe had fiiends about 1,000 miles of snowvisiting from Seattle and mobile trails. Popular hubs, their kids had never seen so besides Sumpter, include the much snow." Clear Creek Sno-Park near The Shieldses, by contrast, Halfway, Anthony Lakes and were not taken aback by the the South Fork Burnt River severity of Halfway winters area near Unity, in southern when they arrived. Baker County.
-
Pon's LawnService
online F
CRASH
us e d and
Hove said trains travel through the Curtis RoadMiller Lane crossing at Continued ~om Page1A about 69 mph. Damage G j Vg ~ "The train has a camera played at the scene, he said, was a role in consistent with that speed, system," he added, noting that it will go to Union Pacif- Opjnjon Q t hecrash. making the investigation ic headquarters in Omaha, Hove said more difficult. The rural area train Nebraska, to be downloaded. On thlS - there are no indica- crossing displays train Hove expects OSP to gain tions thus crossing signs with a stop possessionofthevideofootage in about a week. far that sign but does not have It's unclear whether alcohol or other substance crossing arms. The train did not derail, seatbelt restraintswe re were a factor.
LAWS
Oregon Secretary of State will now register qualified voters using drivers' license information. Obviously, this Continued ~om Page1A new edict immediately adds thousands of newvotersto the electoralprocessin paidsick leave and thecontroversial clean fuels edict. the state. • Senate Bill 525, Keeping Guns Senate Bill 454, or Paid Sick Leave, is designed to assist low-income out of the Hands of Domestic Abusemployees that do not have paid sick ers: Streamlines Oregon law with the time protections and focuses on firms federal Violence against Women Act with 10 or more workers. House Bill in an effort to ensure firearms are not 2007 — the Wage Transparency Bill accessibl etodomesticabusers. — shields employees who question or • Senate Bill 324, Clean Fuels: This reveal information about their wage or bill, which proved to be controversial in the last Legislative session, diminishes the wage of another worker. Another law aimed at workers is House Bill the carbon intensity of transportation 3025 — or Ban the Box — that thwarts fuelby 10 percent during thenext 10 employers from asking about a potenyears. This law, however, will be phased tial applicants criminal history on a into jurisdiction and full compliance is job application. Senate Bill 552, creates not set until 2018 • House Bill 2832, Protecting Colprotecti ons in thework placefordomestic workers that include overtime lege Students from Unfair Fees: This pay,setresttim es,paid vacation and law obliges that all contracts between freedom from harassment. public universities and third-party Other new laws include: financial institutions for payment of • Senate Bill 411, Personal Injury Pro- studentaid monies adhere to federal tection: It ensures that auto insurance consumer protection guidelines. The consumers can now receive up to the full bill also bans transaction fees, inactivamount of uninsured motorist coverage ity fees and revenue-sharing policies. and underinsured coverage if they are • House Bill 2879 and House Bill injured by an at-fault, uninsured driver. 3343, Expanding Access to Birth • House Bill 2177, New Motor Voter: Control: House Bill 2879 permits This new law is designed to enlarge pharmacists to prescribe birth control, democracy in Oregon by guaranteeing decreasing the necessity for women to visita doctorfor acontraceptive.House every eligible voter gets a ballot. The
•
a c
r
•
Julie Koeberle, a snow hydrologist with the Natural Resources Conservation Service in Portland. The measurement is compiled from automated snow sensor readings around the Cascades near Bend and the Ochocos near Prineville. "And this time last year it was only 39 percent," Koeberle added. She and other federal scientists use snowpack figures to predict streamflow, or how much water will flow into rivers and creeks. Streamflow forecasts in late winter and early spring indicate how much watermay be availableforirrigatorsfarmers and ranchers — the following summer.
e
Dr. RussellKilpatriok.m be retiring fromhisdentalpraetieeof 42 Iz geare inLaQrandeeR'eetiue DeeemberSt, 20|5. All patient reeords wil be keptwithDr. BrianKruseat
tOt00 M. MeAlister,54|-969-6445.
and no injuries were reportedaboard the train. Hove said it has been quite a while since the area has had a similar crash. "It's been years since we've had a vehicle versus train crash," he said. OSP was assisted by the Union County SheriA"s 0$ce, Union Fire and Ambulance, La Grande Ambulance and Union Pacific Railroadrepresentatives.
Bill 3343 compels insurersto covera full year ofbirth control. • House Bill 2478, Gender-neutral Marriage Language: changes state languagetomirrorsame-sex marriage as the words "husband and wife" in a number of state statues will be shifted to"spousesin legalma rriage." • House Bill 2317, Rape Statute of Limitations: This edict increases the prosecution time in rape cases from six years to 12. • House Bill 2571, Police Body Cameras: This edict compels cities that furnish police with cameras to follow statestandards in their use and access. Also, before the data isreleased to the public, all faces must be blurred. • House Bill 2704, Filming Police: It allows bystanders to film law officers while they are on the job Other key new laws include House Bill 5017 that furnishes more than $7 billion for K-12 schools during the 2015 to 2016 fiscal years while House Bill 2655 createsan easier processfor parents to"opt out" ofhaving their childrencomplete standardized tests. Another law familiar locally, is House Bill 3400 that allows for an easier processfor some citiesand towns to ban marijuana business while stipulating new production mandates on medical marijuana growers while lowering criminal sentences.
*
ISU~ a
-
IS~ ' 541/963-7557 • 800/22H521
The Stratton Agency
Nationwide' is cn your side
la Grande/Elgin• stratton-insurance.com
Dr. Daniel Kehr will be retiring frOm PraCtiCe On DeCember 31, 2015. That Will COnClude hiS 40th year Of
practice. All patient records will be in custody at Kehr Chiropractic, at 2008 3rd St., Suite B, La Grande, Oregon. Dr. Jason Kehr, DC, will be available to COntinue Patient Care. "I Want to eXPreSS my SinCere
thankS and gratitude to all my PatientS and friendS Who haVe been
with me over the years."
There will bean OpenHousereeeption on Januarg 8, 20|6 at thePresbyterian FriendshipCenter between4-6 pm. Patients and friendsareinvited to dropbg.
•
-sr .
whether any substances
rorr Junker, owner
• 0
.;lihe=.=- v
Cherise Kaechele/The Observer
the past two years. Water has stopped flowing through the Owyhee Irrigation District's 400 Continued from Page1A miles of canals, laterals and ditches in A series of snowstorms over the Owyhee August the past two years, two months Basinhas resultedin snowpacklevels more earlier than normal. than twice their normal amount for this As of Dec. 24, snowpack in the basin time ofyear, according to the Capital Press. was at 233 percent ofnormal for that That has given farmers in Eastern date. Oregon who get their irrigation water fiom The reservoir provides water for the Owyhee Reservoir areason to be opti- 118,000irrigated acresin Mal heur mistic for the first time in several years. County in southeastern Oregon and The basin has experienced four around Homedale and Marsingin straight years of reduced snowpack southwestern Idaho. levelsand the 1,800farms that depend The snowpack in the Deschutes/ on the reservoir have had their annual Crooked River Basin is at 147 percent of water allotment slashed by two-thirds normal for this time of year, according to
Ãishing youa MerryChrisfeasf Safe f Happy NewYear!
*;-
Emergency personnel work the scene of a train versus vehicle crashTuesday afternoon at the Curtis Road and Miller Lane crossing. Three occupants of the vehicle were killed in the crash, according to police.
SNOW
Iwouldliketothankmyvaluedcustomers, residential f commercial
~
• 0
•
'4
CvMr
RLUlXu
(541) 963-9632 • 0
•
MONDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
The Observer
A WALLOWA GAL
BACKINTIME:FirstTraininto Wallowa,1908
KAT STICICRQTH
Blessed surprises
~4 4
I
t
n conversations with fiiends about spiritual matters, I have often said,''Well, Godisn't Santa Claus."After last week's Christmas, however, I'm not so slue.
Pe t el " T b 8 3 . B H0 , Ii . ,Q~~1.Il':'OI' HU 1'.jl,'g A l " Q d 'f ) 9 0 trlrl u(. >t OT
~l
Bob Bull collectio
a er rennan'ssonremains
ie o a owa oiin ForThe Observer
The recentrelease of"A RealAmerican Character: The Life of Walter Brennan" written by Carl Rollyson brings to light this AcademyAward-winning actor's ties to Wallowa County. Walter Brennan's son, 93-year-old Mike Brennan, recounted how his father became acquainted with the remote corner of northeastern Oregon. "My FFA teacher at North Hollywood High School, Mr. Smith, contacted my dad upon hearing ofhis desire to purchase a ranch," Mike said.'Mr. Smith had taught agriculttue at Enterprise High School and told Dad about Wallowa County. He said,'It's better than Jackson Hole, Wyoming.' "Dad purchased the 12,000-acre LightningCreek Ranch fiom Ray Pogue, and I moved there in 1941.At 19 years old, I began as a hued boy and ended up running the ranch for 35 years." Surprisingly, Walter's oldest son was not much involved in the movie industry. "My dad was aheadyin the movies when I was born. Occasionally, I went to the studio and watched them make the B movies, but I never became acquainted with the famous actors of the day. As adults, my brother Andy tWaiter Brennan Jr.l played bitparts, but I stayed up here at the ranch. World War II led to my two-year stintin the Army-Air Force as a heavy equipment operator to maintain a base in Nebraska," Mike explained. Bmg the war, Mike had married Florence Scott Whitman, a thirdgeneration Wallowa Countian fiom the Ctuw Creek area. Together, at his return to Lightning Creek, they raised eight children who attended Joseph school and are now scattered across the country
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Katherine Stickroth/ForTheObserver
Mike Brennan reminisces about his father, Academy Award-winning actor Walter Brennan. and British Columbia with their own National Hobo Marching Band."This children and grandchildren. humorously dubbed group oflocal musiIn Joseph, Walter Brennan built a cians was a favorite entryin the CJD Quonset hut on Main Street to establish Parade, in which Walter led the procession using a toilet plunger as his baton. a theater. It now bears the emblem of The GoodShepherd and isthe home of Mike Brennan continues to drive, the First Baptist Church. turns wooden bowls as a hobby, and "Everybody liked the theater. It had remembers his early days of flood irrigating the fields."It's a dying art now," he goodacoustics,"Mikerecalled. Walter also constructed the Indian sald. Lodge Motel, where he stayed until movThe movie"Barbary Coast"was Walter inginto a house on Mill Street. Brennan's"break"into the film industry. He worked with dose fiiends such For his son Mike, moving to Wallowa as Ray Daggett to promote the nascent County was his"break" — giving him the Chief Joseph Days. These efforts inopportunit y to spend 74yearscarving cluded the formation of the"Chesnimnus out a fiIIfillingranch life with his family.
•
•
BRIEFLY From staff reports
WVO rehearsals begin 3an. 5
By
''Wow! Hugged by Santa!" I thought. Then he retrieved Petey and placed a wiggling cutie pie in my arms. Allen is invited to speak around the country about his organicdairypracticesthat render health-giving milk products. That he would bring such a special gift to me is humbling and fills me with warm gratitude. My little pup is presently snuggled next to me, resting his head on my laptop while I wordsmith this story. Peteyis a reminder to keep open to the possibilities of what the New Year may bring. Blessed surprises,great and small, show up in the most amazing of ways.
•
~ ~ &l d f& c M L &
The railroad line from La Grande to Elgin was completed in 1890. From there it was planned to extend the railroad line on toWallowa, but this didn't happen until the need for a railroad to haul logs to the Palmer Sawmill in La Grande gave the railroad other reason for the extension. The railroad was completed to the mouth of Lookingglass Creek and from there, the railroad line soon continued on toWallowa and then later clear to Joseph by 1907. The first passenger train called an "excursion train" ran between Elgin and Wallowa on September 20-21, 1908.
a bighug.
•
g'
$ g.4
In June,Ihad tohavem y dog Brownie put down. It's still hard to talk about thatheartwrenchingtime. She was a rescue dog,AussierTerrier mix We had weatheml some tough timesover12yearsand shaied a deep love and devotion. Constantly under her watchful eye, I was her flock, and she was my shepherd. For weeks after her passing, restless nights were filled with deepgriefseasoned with guilt over that decision. But things shifted during one dozing, when dreamed I that God handed me a golden blond pup with white markings. "I will bring it to you," He said. I awoke with peace in my heart and tear-filled eyes. Perhaps hope, perhaps faith, fueled my waiting. Mygood ifi end JanieTippett called in September to say, 'Tve found a dog for you." Allen Voortman, who owns Pride and Joy Dairyin Granger, Washington, with his wife, Cheryl, had told Janie of a wild female dog who took up with his band of sheep and shepherded them about his acreage. Over time she warmed up to Allen and became a pet to his family. He was so impressed with her, she was bred with a terrierand produced alitterof six, with one remaining puppy. Janie replied,"I know someone who needs him." She told me the pup's story and gaveme aphotoofhim. Golden blond with white markings. Three days before Christmas, I stood by Janie's snowcovered driveway as Allen, a large man sporting a white beard and Santa hat, piled out ofhis truck and gave me
ENTERPRISE — Preparation for the nextWallowa Valley Orchestra concert will begin at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 5 in the Enterprise High School band room. Tuesday rehearsals will continue on Jan. 12, 19 and 26, and Feb.2,9, 16 and 23. A concertis scheduled for Feb. 28 in Elgin. The WVO is open to Wallowa and Union county student and adult musicians interested in participating in an orchestral setting. Anyone who plays violin, viola, cello or string bass or a woodwind, brass or percussion instrument is welcome to join. Musicians must provide their own instruments and be abletoread music. For more information, contact the Inland Northwest Musicians at 541-289-4696 or associate conductor Randy Morgan 541-426-3593.
Send us your Wallowa Life item Deadline: Noon Friday Reach us: • Mail:1406 Fifth St., La Grande, OR 97850 • Email: ckaechele@ lagrandeobserver. com
I ntroducing Orthopedic Dr. Adrian Davis
ur
Dr. Dnvis will be based in La Grande; he will see palients nt Wnllown Memorinl Hospitalfour days per month, starling in November
r ( +~ ,
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
• Sports medicine, orthopedic trauma, hip/knee osteoarthritis • Dr. Davis served as physician for the USA Rugby Team, and several other professional Pittsburgh sports teams • Education: medical school at Indiana University; orthopedic surgery residency at St. Louis University; sports medicine fellowship at Alleghany General Hospital
Ask your phy 'cianfor e f r rat t
Memorial Hospital
[g ~ i jI Please don't drink and drive!
We treat you like family 01
Offering FREE New Years Rides. Call 541-963-5022 • 0
•
ay!
• 0
xcal
ar k w a y, En r p n s e , auowa Memorial H
•
it a l i s a e u
8
• 541-426-3111 • ww w . w c hcd.org por
nity e m p l oyer and provider.
• 0
•
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
THE OBSERVER — 7A
J • J
I
I
I
•
n
rr
'' @tetgtNI
II ' •
r
'I
r Il I
II
L
r
I
8 I
'r
'r
L
E
I
'I
I,ES SCHWII
I'
I
541-963-8411
2306 Adams La Grande, OR 97850
r
Cmieh )
© RgdCro@ D RUG
STORE
541-963-5741 1123 Adams Ave
-
541-963-3161 1406 5th St.
La Grande, OR 97850 La Grande, OR 97850
Longbranch 541-963-9442 208 Depot St.
La Grande, OR 97850
F AR M E R S
•
'I
I NSU R A N C E
541-963-8611
541-963-4174
541-663-9000
10201 W. 1st St. 191 2 4th St. Suite 200 120 7 Adams Ave. La Grande, OR 97850 La Grande, OR 97850 L a Grande, OR 97850 R AY N O R ' B AM
MJ GOSS MOTORS CO. 541-963-4161 1415 Adams La Grande, OR 97850
G E D D D I.I B
THE DOOR GUY La Grande LLC
541-963-7858
2209 Adams Ave. La Grande, OR 97850
RAYNOR GARAGE DOORS SALES• SERVICE INSTALLATION Bob Fager
541-963-3701 CCB¹23272
~~yl- dlg Pepsi-Cola Bottling Co. of Eastern Oregon
541-963-9597 210 Depot St.
541 -963-71 66
2404 E. H Ave. La Grande, OR 97850
G RAN D E R ON D E H OSP I T A L
NC
La Grande, OR 97850
TOWING /AUTO
541-963-8421 900 Sunset Dr. La Grande, OR 97850
BAUM SMITH-
& U-HAUL
Union County La Grande, OR 97850
541-963-2757 2304 Adams La Grande, OR 97850
541-963-3104
1902 4th Street La Grande, OR 97850
On New Year's Eve until 2:30 a.m. (Within city limits of La Grande and Island City only.) FUN E R A L • 0
•
C H A P EL
a n d Crematory • 0
•
Pggps~
on't Drlnk rfv
15084thSt.La Grande,OR 97850 • 0
•
Wednesday, December 30, 2015 The Observer
ON DECIC THURSDAY • College women's basketball:The Evergreen State College at Eastern Oregon University, Quinn Coliseum, 5:30 p.m. • College men's basketball:The Evergreen State College at Eastern Oregon University, Quinn Coliseum, 7:30 p.m.
PREP GIRLS BASKETBALL ROUNDUP
i ersearnsairo owout tournevwins Observer staff
Madi Wilcox led four players in double figures with 20 points as the La Grande girls basketball team raced out to a 23-0 first-quarter lead and rolled to a 73-29 shellacking
of Estacada Tuesday at the Sisters Tournament. "Defensively, we came out and really set a tone," head coach Justin MacKay said. "Our energy and effort was greattostartthegame atthe
defensive end, which led to us assists and five steals. being able to get out and run Monday, La Grande worked through a slow first and get fastbreak baskets." Kylin Collman, Kali Avila half that saw it tied at 22-all and Lacey Miles each scored with Henley before pulling 11 points and Avery Albrecht away for the 56-44 win. "In the second half we contributed eight points, six
PREP BOYS BASKETBALL ROUNDUP
PREP GIRLS BASKETBALL
FRIDAY • Prep wrestling: Union/Cove, Elgin, Wallowa„ Joseph, Imbler at JO-Hl Cosgrove Invitational, Joseph, 2 p.m.
Outlaws run out
of gas Tuesday
TIGEJ.'
AT A GLANCE
Lopez enjoys solid tourney At the Pomeroy Tournament in Washington, Joseph's Ben Lopez used pins for a pair of victories in prep wrestling Tuesday over Clearwater Valley wrestlers. Lopez won by fall over Peyton Whipple in the first round in the 195-pound division, and won by fall over Sean Nelson six seconds into the second round. The Eagles' Cole Kiesecker lost a pair of matches by fall to Clearwater Valley wrestlers at 220, losing to Trae Dominguez and Dawson Fisher. The Eagles next host the JO-Hl Invitational Friday and Saturday.
Eagles go 1-1 at tourney The Joseph boys basketballteam beat Neah-Kah-Nie 45-41 Monday, but fell 42-33 to Willamina Tuesday at the Driftwood Classic in Rockaway Beach. In Monday's win, Joseph's Aaron Borgerding led all scorers with 26 points. No other stats were available. The Eagles ((4-5 overall) face Union Saturday in a nonconference game.
Huskies fall by five points The Elgin girls basketball team lost to Irrigon 40-35 in the opener of the lrrigon RoundballTournament Tuesday. No other stats were available. The Huskies (4-7 overall) face Pilot Rock today to close out the tournament.
• Heppner controls second half to take care of Outlaws Observer staff
Observer file phato
La Grande guard Kylin Collman drives toward the paint in a Dec. 5 game againstThe Dalles. The senior is the Tigers' leading scorer with 173 points per game and has hit a team-high 25 3-pointers.
• Senior guard Kylin Collman is Tigers' top scorer, but is driven by a desire to get La Grande to the Class 4A championship after the disappointment of last season By Ronald Bond The Observer
La Grande guard Kylin Collman has been the Tigers' most prolific scorer through the first nine games of the season, leading the team in scoring six times and averaging a team-high 17.3 pointsper game to help theTigersto a 6-3 start. But as the senior plays out her final year in a La Grande uniform, she isn't worried about where she ends up on the score sheet. Rather, Collman and the Tigers have a different focus: wins. "Our mindset has completely changed," she said. Whereas last year I wanted to score, now I want to win. I
"My dad always played basketball and always loved it," she said."He got me into it." That was just the start. ''We started getting serious about it my freshman year," she added. As the years progressed, so did the level of focus. Collman and teammate
Avery Albrecht played on a travel squad based out of Boise, Idaho, during the spring and summer of 2014, in addition to a team out of Tri-Cities, Washington, during the last offseason. And last summer, she added a new element to her already lethal shot, adding offensive abilities to turn herself into a multi-talented threat. "My sophomore and junior year I was always considered a shooter. When I went into travel basketball, I heard fiom coaches I can't be one-dimensional," she said."I worked on driving to the hole and beingaggressive,aswellasrebounding and being aggressive with that." SeeCollman IPage 9A
"iHeppnerl is tough and they're an older team," Enterprise head coach Ron Lathrop said.'We came out flat in the second and third quarters, and they didn't. That was the turning point." The Outlaws earned a 5925 rout of Ione the previous night. Koby Ketscher scored a game-high 17 points for the Outlaws. Wells nailed a pairof3-pointers and scored 16 points, and Greenshields addedeightpointsasthe Outlaws held Ione to just five points in the second half to pull away. "In the second half we did well," Lathrop said ofhis team's defense."It turned the SeeRounduplPage 9A
Kellyfire withone game left • Philadelphia is 6-9 after going 10-6 in Chip Kelly's first two seasons at the helm The Associated Press
Chip Kelly went three-andout — much like his inconsistent offense. Kelly was fired by the Philadel-
phia Eagles on Tuesday night with one game left in his third season, completingadramaticdrop fora coach who was heavily recruited and lauded as an offensive genius only a couple years ago. Kelly was dumped after missing the playoffs for the second straight season and failing miserably in his first year in charge of personnel. The Eagles entered the season
The La Grande girls basketball team enjoyed a pair of double-digit victories at the Sisters Tournament, with Madi Wilcox stepping up her game in eachwin.InM onday's56-44winoverHenley,the senior notched a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds. TheTigers blasted Estacada 73-29 Tuesday, and Wilcox led four players in double-figure scoring with 20 points.
with Super Bowl expectations, but are6-9.They'velostseveral games by a lopsided margin and players had lost confidence in
Kelly. Two current Eagles players, speaking on condition of anonymity because the team was not publicly discussing the firing, told The The Associated Press Associated Press late Tuesday The Philadelphia Eagles fired Chip Kelly night that several players had Tuesday withone game remaining.The SeeKellyIPage 9A Eagles went 26-21 under Kelly's watch.
TOMORROW'S PICIC
Tigers paced by post presence
•
want to win a state championship. It's nice ito score), but hopefully our team goal is to be winning and progressing throughout the season." Collman has seen a lot of personal progression in her game. She made it a focal point a few years ago when her father, Jay, began coaching her and a group ofher friends in seventh grade.
The Enterprise boys basketball team couldn't maintain Monday's success, falling to Heppner 65-34in the Oregon Trail Classic championship in Pendleton Tuesday. Justin Exon hit three 3-pointers for a 13-point effort to lead the Outlaws in defeat. Brett Greenshields added nine points, and Rylie Hayward and Jimmy Wells scored six points apiece. Enterprise trailed by just four points at halfbme, but Heppner outscored it 40-13 in the second halfbehind Patrick Collins, who scored 15 ofhis 17 points in the final two quarters.
NFL
OBSERVERATHLETE OF THE DAY
• 0
triedsome different things and I felt like that was good for us," MacKay said."It was just a grind." Collman led the Tigers with 25 points and added SeeGirlslPage 9A
Mounties host Geoducks Wilcox
The Eastern Oregon University men's and women's basketball teams take on The Evergreen State College Thursday in CascadeCollegiate Conference action. 5:30 p.m.,Quinn Coliseum
• 0
•
WHO'S HOT
WHO'S NOT
DEMARCUS COUSINS: Sacramento Kings GMVlade Divac his six starts, with overtime said that he expects Couswins over New England and ins to be suspended by the NBA after getting ejected Cincinnati — two teams in theAFC's playoff field — af- and confronting o8icials in a 122-103 loss to Golden State ter Denver's 20-17 win over the Bengals Monday night. Monday night. BROCK OSWEILER: The Denver Broncos' quarterback is now 4-2 in
• 0
•
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
THE OBSERVER —9A
SPORTS
SCOREBOARD PREP STANDINGS Boys Basketball 4A-7 Greater Oregon League GOL AII PF PA RK 0-0 4-6 525 579 27 Baker M cLoughlin 0 0- 4 - 7 456 503 3 0 La Grande 0 - 0 2 - 2 221 194 31 0-0 2-6 426 538 18 Ontario 2A-6 Wapiti League W ap All P F P A RK Union 0 -0 9-2 627 491 6 Imbler 0 -0 8-0 413 250 1 Elgin 0-0 7-5 588 567 20 0-0 5-3 413 376 22 Burns G rant Union 0 - 0 4 - 4 505 388 2 6 E nterprise 0 0- 4 4 3 8 2 373 3 3 0-0 1-7 277 4 84 4 2 Cove
1A-7 Old Oregon League OOL All PF PA RK P owder Valley 2-0 6-2 437 309 6 Echo 2 -0 4-6 436 439 3 5 N ixyaawii 1-0 1 0-1 805 532 2 W allowa 1-1 2 4 ) 3 1 0 49 5 3 6 0 -1 4-5 375 425 2 2 Joseph G riswold 0-2 2- 8 3 1 7 46 0 6 4 P ine Eagle 0 - 2 1 - 6 25 2 417 5 1
Girls Basketball 4A-7 Greater Oregon League GOL AII PF PA RK L aGrande 0 - 0 6 - 3 555 425 8 M cLoughlin 0 0 6 4 3 8 9 41 0 1 4 Baker 0 -0 5-4 396 381 1 3 O ntario 0-0 1-7 2 3 4 38 7 2 9 2A-6 Wapiti League W ap All P F P A R K 1 -0 64 330 372 1 6 Union 0 -0 8-1 455 318 4 Burns 0 -0 7-1 410 194 1 3 Imbler Grant Union 0 - 0 6 - 2 492 27 0 8 E nterprise 0 - 0 5 4 3 5 7 27 9 2 1 Cove 0 -0 36 309 395 2 5 Elgin 0 -1 5-7 444 426 3 8 1A-7 Old Oregon League OOL AII PF PA RK Griswold 2-0 8- 2 4 1 7 32 7 8 P owder Valley 2-0 54 441 320 2 4 N ixyaawii 1-0 1 0-1 598 325 1 2 1 -1 5-5 362 348 2 1 Echo 0 -1 4-5 422 363 3 2 Joseph W allowa 0-2 1 -10 171 536 4 6 P ine Eagle 0 - 2 0 - 7 1 15 377 5 3
EOU STANDINGS Men's Basketball Cascade Collegiate Conference Team CCC AII Southern Oregon Wamer Pacific Northwest Christian College ofldaho
Eastern Oregon Corban Northwest Evergreen Oregon Tech Multnomah Walla Walla
4 -0 4-0 4 -1 2-2 2-2 2-3 2-3 2-3 1 -3 1-3 0-4
11- 3 8-4 10- 4 7-6 64) 7-5 6-9 5-8 10- 3 4-7 2-1 0
Women's Basketball Cascade Collegiate Conference Team CCC AII Southern Oregon Wamer Pacific
4 -0 4-0
11- 0 9-1
ROUNDUP Continuedff om Page 8A game around a little. We played well in the second half' Enterprise (4-4 overall) opens Wapiti League play with a game at Grant Union Saturday.
Elgin's shooting goes cold Afterafive-game winning Streak, Elgin haS nOW 1OSt fOur Df itS laSt fiVe gameS
following a 35-29 loss to Pilot ROCk TueSday at the Irrigon Rotmdball HOliday Tournament. '%e're still lacking in just Wanting to COmmit to being a
Oregon Tech
Eastern Oregon Northwest Christian Northwest Multnomah College of Idaho Corban Evergreen Walla Walla
4-0 3-1 3-2 2-3 1-3 1-3 1-4 1-4 0-4
10-3 76 7-5 6-8 3-9 2-8 5-8 1-9 0-9
Monday's Score Women's Basketball Warner Pacific 60, Linfield 50
Tuesday's Score Men's Basketball Corban 74, Linfield 71, OT
FOOTBALL NFL Standings
Texas Tech (7-5) vs. LSU (8-3), 6 p.m. (ESPN) Wednesday, Dec. 30 Birmingham (Ala.) Bowl Auburn (6-6) vs. Memphis (9-3), 9 a.m. (ESPN)
Chicago 26, Tampa Bay 21 Atlanta 20, Carolina 13 Baltimore 20, Pittsburgh 17 New Orleans 38, Jacksonville 27 St. Louis 23, Seattle 17 Arizona 38, Green Bay 8 Minnesota 49, N.Y. Giants 17 Monday's Game Denver 20, Cincinnati 17, OT Sunday, Jan. 3 Jacksonville at Houston, 10 a.m. Washington at Dallas, 10 a.m. Detroit at Chicago, 10 a.m. N.Y. Jets at Buffalo, 10 a.m. New England at Miami, 10 a.m. New Orleans atAtlanta, 10 a.m. Baltimore at Cincinnati, 10 a.m. Pittsburgh at Cleveland, 10 a.m. Tennessee at lndianapolis, 10 a.m. Philadelphia at N.Y. Giants, 10 a.m. St. Louis at San Francisco, 1:25 p.m. San Diego at Denver, 1:25 p.m. Seattle atArizona, 1:25 p.m. Oakland at Kansas City, 1:25 p.m. Tampa Bay at Carolina, 1:25 p.m. Minnesota atGreen Bay, 5:30 p.m.
Belk Bowl Charlotte, N.C. NC State (7-5) vs. Mississippi St. (8-4), 12:30 p.m. (ESPN) Music City Bowl Nashville, Tenn. Louisville (7-5) vs. TexasASM (8-4), 4
p.m. (ESPN)
Holiday Bowl San Diego Wisconsin (9-3) vs. Southern Cal (8-5), 7:30 p.m. (ESPN) Thursday, Dec. 31 Peach Bowl Atlanta Houston (12-1) vs. Florida State (10-2), 9 a.m. (ESPN) Orange Bowl (Playoff Semifinal) Miami Gardens, Fla. Clemson (13-0) vs. Oklahoma (11-1),
AMERICAN CONFERENCE East W L T P c t P F PA y-New England 12 3 0 . 8 00 455295 N.Y. Jets 10 5 0 .66 7 370292 Bulfalo 7 8 0 . 4 67 357342 Miami 5 10 0 . 333 290379 NCAA Bowls South Wednesday, Dec. 23 W L T P c t P F PA Poinsettia Bowl 8 7 0 . 5 33 309307 San Diego 7 8 0 . 4 67 303384 Boise State 55, Northern lllinois 7 5 10 0 . 333 370418 GoDaddy Bowl 3 12 0 . 200 275393 Mobile, Ala. North Georgia Southern 58, Bowling Green 27 W L T P c t P F PA Thursday, Dec. 24 y-Cincinnati 11 4 0 . 7 33 395263 Bahamas Bowl Pittsburgh 9 6 0 . 6 00 395307 Nassau Baltimore 5 10 0 . 333 312377 Westem Michigan 45, Middle Tennessee 31 Cleveland 3 12 0 . 200 266404 Hawaii Bowl West Honolulu W L T P c t P F PA San Diego State 42, Cincinnati 7 x-Denver 11 4 0 .73 3 328276 Saturday, Dec. 26 x-Kansas City 10 5 0 .6 6 7 382270 St. Petersburg (Fla.) Bowl Oakland 7 8 0 . 4 67 342376 Marshall 16, UConn 10 San Diego 4 11 0 .2 6 7 300371 Sun Bowl NATIONAL CONFERENCE El Paso, Texas East Washington State 20, Miami 14 W L T P c t P F PA Heart of Dallas Bowl 8 7 0 . 5 33 354356 Washington 44, Southern Mississippi 31 6 9 0 . 4 00 342400 Pinstripe Bowl 6 9 0 . 4 00 390407 Bronx, N.Y. 4 11 0 . 267 252340 Duke 44, Indiana 41, OT South Independence Bowl W L T P c t P F PA Shreveport, La. y-Carolina 14 1 0 . 9 33 462298 Virginia Tech 55, Tulsa 52 Atlanta 8 7 0 . 5 33 322325 Foster Farms Bowl Tampa Bay 6 9 0 . 4 00 332379 Santa Clara, Calif. New Orleans 6 9 0 . 4 00 388459 Nebraska 37, UCLA 29 North Monday, Dec. 28 W L T P c t P F PA Military Bowl x-Green Bay 10 5 0 . 6 67 355303 Annapolis, Md. x-Minnesota 10 5 0 . 6 67 345289 Navy 44, Pittsburgh 28 Detroit 6 9 0 . 4 00 334380 Quick Lane Bowl Chicago 6 9 0 . 4 00 315373 Detroit West Minnesota 21, Central Michigan 14 W L T P c t P F PA Tuesday, Dec. 29 y-Arizona 13 2 0 .86 7 483277 Armed Forces Bowl Fort Worth, Texas x-Seattle 9 6 0 . 6 00 387271 Air Force (8-5) vs. California (7-5), St. Louis 7 8 0 . 4 67 264311 San Francisco 4 1 1 0 . 2 67 219371 11 a.m. (ESPN) x-clinched playoff spot Russell Athletic Bowl Orlando, Fla. y-clinched division North Carolina (11-2) vs. Baylor (9-3), All Times PST
Sunday's Games Houston 34, Tennessee 6 Kansas City 17, Cleveland 13 N.Y. Jets 26, New England 20, OT Indianapolis 18, Miami 12 Detroit 32, San Francisco 17 Bulfalo 16, Dallas 6
1 p.m. (ESPN) Cotton Bowl Classic (Playoff Semifinal) Arlington, Texas Alabama (12-1) vs. Michigan State (121), 5 p.m. (ESPN) Friday, Jan. 1 Outback Bowl Tampa, Fla. Northwestern (10-2) vs. Tennessee (8-4), 9 a.m. (ESPN2) Citrus Bowl Orlando, Fla. Michigan (9-3) vs. Florida (10-3), 10 a.m. (ABC) Fiesta Bowl Glendale, Ariz. Notre Dame (10-2) vs. Ohio State (111), 10 a.m. (ESPN) Rose Bowl Pasadena, Calif. lowa (12-1) vs. Stanford (11-2), 2 p.m. (ESPN) Sugar Bowl New Orleans Oklahoma State (10-2) vs. Mississippi (9-3), 5:30 p.m. (ESPN) Saturday, Jan. 2 TaxSlayer Bowl Jacksonville, Fla. Penn St. (7-5) vs. Georgia (9-3), 9 a.m. (ESPN) Liberty Bowl Memphis, Tenn. Kansas St. (6-6) vs. Arkansas (7-5), 12:20 p.m. (ESPN) Alamo Bowl San Antonio Oregon (9-3) vs. TCU (10-2), 3:45 p.m. (ESPN) Cactus Bowl Phoenix West Virginia (7-5) vs. Arizona State (6-6), 7:15 p.m. (ESPN) Monday, Jan. 11 College Football Championship Game Glendale, Ariz. Orange Bowl winner vs. Cotton Bowl winner, 5:30 p.m. (ESPN)
2:30 p.m. (ESPN) Arizona Bowl Tucson Nevada (6-6) vs. Colorado State (7-5), 4:30 p.m. (TBA) Texas Bowl Houston
Monday's Games Indiana 93, Atlanta 87 Orlando 104, New Orleans 89 L.A. Clippers 108, Washington 91 Charlotte 108, L.A. Lakers 98 Brooklyn 111, Miami 105 Chicago 104, Toronto 97 San Antonio 101, Minnesota 95 Dallas 103, Milwaukee 93 Utah 95, Philadelphia 91 Cleveland 101, Phoenix 97 Golden State 122, Sacramento 103
NBA Standings
Continued ~om Page8A
Tuesday's Games
Wednesday's Games Brooklyn at Orlando, 4 p.m. L.A. Clippers at Charlotte, 4 p.m. Washington at Toronto, 4:30 p.m. L.A. Lakers at Boston, 4:30 p.m. Indiana at Chicago, 5 p.m. Utah at Minnesota, 5 p.m. PhoenixatSanAntonio,5:30 p.m. Golden State at Dallas, 5:30 p.m. Philadelphia at Sacramento, 7 p.m. Denver at Portland, 7 p.m.
SeVen POintS Bnd IriSh ChiPPed in SiX
Aftera disappointing 42-31 loss to Ione MOnday at the OregOn Trail Classic in Pendleton, Enterprise put tOgethera SOlid all-arotmd game fOr a 45-26 triumph over Heppner Tuesday. The OutlaWS, WhiCh beat Ione 50-34
points. Enterprise head coach Mike Crawfordsaid a positivedevelopment was the interior passing, with George Setting ASChenbrenner uP a number Df times in the post. '%e did not Play Well at all (Monday)," Mike Crawford said.'%e were quiet On defenSe, WePlayed like a bunCh Df indiVidualS Bnd WeWere quiCk to take ShOtSWhen Weneeded PatienCe. But maybe it was the best thing that could happen. "(Tuesday) was exactly the opposite. We COntrOlled the game, Bnd it WBS a WhOle different SCenariO. OL(r benCh
C1OSe the tOurnament Dut
in the SeCOnd game Df the SeaSOn,ShOt
WBS inVO1Ved, Bnd One thing led to
tOday againSt Yakima Tribal, Washington.
juSt 5-for-29 in the firSt half aS they fell intO a 17-Point defiCit at halftime Df the firSt game Df the tOurnament Bnd couldn't recover. Ti(Ianie George led Enterprise in defeat with nine points, Bnd Reagan Bedard Bnd Eliza IriSh both scored five points. But in the ClaSSiC'S finale, nine Dut Df 10 OutlaWSSCOred aSthey CruiSed to
another." The ViCtOry halted a fOur-game 1OSing streak for the Outlaws (5-4 overall), WhiCh begin WaPiti League Play SatL(rday at Grant Union.
COLLMAN
ing a more rounded basketball player haS beCOmethe biggeSt thing to me. "She WantS to find the beSt guard On the (OPPOSing) team and guard them. Her SelfleSSneSS in Wanting to SaCrifiCe her energy On bOth endS Df the floor shows me, but also the other PlayerS, thatit'SnotabOut SCOring.It'S abOut Winning Bnd aChieVing the gOal to get dOWn to the State tOurnament." La Grande had reached the state tOurnament in 2013 Bnd 2014, 1OOking Primed togetbaCk again after SWeePing the Greater Oregon League in 2015. But a 39-33 hOme Playo(I'1OSS to Banks in March ended the opportunity
seven steals, while Wilcox posted a dOuble-dOuble With 12 POintS Bnd 10 rebotmdS. The Tigers(6-3 overall)face Mazama tOday at 2 P.m. in the SiSterS Tournament championship game.
Outlaws split at tourney
Wanted to See,"JOhnSOnSaid.
The Huskies (7-5 overall)
KELLY
He also gave big money in &ee agenCy to running baCk
Continuedff om Page 8A
DBMarCO Murray Bnd COrner-
back Byron Maxwell. Murray met in groups in recent haS been a buSt Bnd MaXWell WeekS to diSCuSS their &uShaS TmderPerformed. Kelly tration With Kelly. They Said eVen Signed Tim TebOW,but they expressed relief in text releaSed him after he Won exchanges with teammates the COmPetitiOn fOr the ND. 3 after the team announced it quarterbaCk job. had fired Kelly, after most A person familiar with the PlayerS had left the team'S decision to fire Kelly told the AP On TueSday night that practice facility for the day. Eagles CEO JBSey Lurie the team didn't consider only issued a one-sentence stateStriPPing him Of PerSOnnel ment to rePOrterS Saying he COntrO1,OPting to Part With aPPreciatesKelly'scontribu- him entirely. tionS Bnd WiSheS him SuCCeSS Kelly replaced Andy Reid Bnd led the EagleS to Bn NFC going forward. Lurie tOld fanS in Bn email East title in 2013 after they that he deCided to make a were 4-12 a year earlier. The change after "evaluating the EagleS 1OStat hOme to NeW many faCtOrS inVO1Ved in Our OrleanS in the Playo(I'S Bnd missed the postseason in performanceas a team." The Eagles also fired Ed 2014fol lowing a 9-3 start. MarynOWitZ, Who WBS ViCe They were 7-12 in Kelly's last 19 games. PreSidentDfPlayerPerSOnnel. Longtime NFL executive Kelly was considered Tom Donahoe Will aSSume One Df the mOStinnOVatiVe the rOle Df SeniOrdireCtOr Df coaches in college when the Eagles lured him away from player personnel. Kelly gained full control Oregon in 2013.
Continued ~om Page8A She haSremained a threat &Om OutSide, With her 25 3-PointerS leading the TigerS. The added element Ofbeing able to attaCk the baSket haS not Only made her better, but also has been a benefit for the entire team. "Her adding the ability to attaCk o(I'the dribble is huge for us," head COaCh JuStin MaCKay Said.'%ithin Our OffenSe, We try to attaCk Off the dribble a lot. W ith herbeing ableto dothat,it CreateS ShOtS not Only fOr her, but her abilit y toSCOre draWS a lotDfdefenderS Bnd CreateSthe ability todraW ShOtS fOrOther PlayerS,too." But the area MacKay has seen the most growth in Collman's game has been On the Other Side Df the ball. "TD me the biggeSt Stride that Kylin haS made in Wanting to Win haS been at the defenSiVe end," he Said."BBCOm-
Tuesday's Games Boston 7, Ottawa 3 N.Y. Islanders 6, Toronto 3 New Jersey 3, Carolina 2 Columbus 6, Dallas 3 Florida 3, Montreal 1 St. Louis 4, Nashville 3, OT Winnipeg 4, Detroit 1 Anaheim 1, Calgary 0 Los Angeles 5, Edmonton 2 Chicago 7, Arizona 5
New York 108, Detroit 96 Memphis 99, Miami 90, OT Atlanta 121, Houston 115 Oklahoma City 131, Milwaukee 123 Cleveland 93, Denver 87
the win. Sarah Aschenbrenner earned a team-high 12 points, George scored
NHL Standings EASTERN CONFERENCE Atlantic Division GP W LOT Pts GFGA Florida 37 21 1 2 4 4 61 0 1 84 Montreal 39 2 1 15 3 4 5 111 98 Boston 36 20 1 2 4 4 4 115 97 D etroit 37 18 1 2 7 4 3 9 4 9 8 Ottawa 37 18 1 3 6 4 2 111 112 T ampaBay 3 7 1815 4 4 0 9 5 8 8 B ufialo 36 15 1 7 4 3 4 8 5 9 4 Toronto 35 1 31 5 7 3 3 9 2 100 Metropolitan Division GP W LOT Pts GFGA Washington 35 27 6 2 5 6 110 72 N.Y. Islanders 37 20 12 5 4 5 103 88 N.Y. Rangers 37 20 13 4 4 4 107 98 N ew Jersey 37 18 14 5 4 1 8 7 9 2 P ittsburgh 3 5 1 7 15 3 3 7 7 9 8 6 P hiladelphia 35 15 13 7 3 7 7 6 9 6 Carolina 37 1 5 1 7 5 3 5 8 7 1 06 Columbus 3 9 1 4 22 3 3 1 9 8 123 WESTERN CONFERENCE Central Division GP W LOT Pts GFGA Dallas 38 27 8 3 5 7 1 32 97 St. Louis 3 9 23 12 4 5 0 9 9 9 3 Chicago 38 21 13 4 4 6 104 94 Minnesota 3 5 19 10 6 4 4 9 5 8 4 Nashville 37 18 12 7 4 3 100 96 Colorado 37 18 17 2 3 8 106 102 Winnipeg 36 17 17 2 3 6 9 7 105 Pacific Division GP W LOT Pts GFGA L osAngeles 36 23 11 2 4 8 9 8 8 1 Arizona 36 1 71 6 3 3 7 100 116 Vancouver 3 8 14 15 9 3 7 9 3 109 San Jose 3 5 1 7 16 2 3 6 9 6 100 Calgary 36 1 71 7 2 3 6 9 6 117 A naheim 35 1 4 15 6 3 4 6 7 8 7 Edmonton 3 8 15 20 3 3 3 9 7 118 All Times PST
Monday's Games
Wednesday's Games Toronto at Pittsburgh, 4 p.m. Buffalo at Washington, 4 p.m. New Jersey at Ottawa, 4:30 p.m. N.Y. Rangers at Tampa Bay, 5 p.m. Philadelphia at San Jose, 7:30 p.m.
Thursday's Games
N.Y. Islanders at Buffalo, 3 p.m. Pittsburgh at Detroit, 3 p.m. Washington at Carolina, 3 p.m. Minnesota at St. Louis, 5 p.m. Chicago at Colorado, 5 p.m. Nashville at Dallas, 5:30 p.m. LosAngeles at Calgary, 6 p.m. Anaheim at Edmonton, 6 p.m. Winnipeg atArizona, 6 p.m.
Thursdayls Games
EASTERN CONFERENCE Atlantic Division
HOCKEY
Montreal 4, Tampa Bay 3, SO Washington 2, Bulfalo 0 Nashville 5, N.Y. Rangers 3 Minnesota 3, Detroit 1 Los Angeles 5, Vancouver 0 Colorado 6, San Jose 3
Milwaukee at lndiana, 3 p.m. Minnesota at Detroit, 3 p.m. Golden State at Houston, 4 p.m. L.A. Clippers at New Orleans, 5 p.m. Phoenix at Oklahoma City, 5 p.m. Portland at Utah, 6 p.m.
BASKETBALL
GIRLS
team," Elgin head coach Kevin Johnson said."All those selfish times, people pointing fingerS inStead Df remedying the situation — still having those lazy moments." Caleb Lathrop scored nine points, all in the first quarter, to PaCe the HuSkieS. Brandon HOWBS and Gage Little scoredeight pointsapiece,as the offense couldn't match Elgin's defensive effort. "That was pretty good. I was pleased with the defensive effort, which was I
W L Pct GB Toronto 1 9 13 . 5 94 Boston 18 13 . 581 '/2 New York 15 18 .45 5 4 ' / 2 Brooklyn 9 2 2 .29 0 9 ' / 2 Philadelphia 2 31 .0 6 1 17'/2 Southeast Division W L Pct GB Atlanta 21 13 . 6 18 Miami 18 13 .5 8 1 1 ' / 2 Orlando 18 13 .5 8 1 1 ' / 2 Charlotte 17 13 . 567 2 Washington 14 15 .4 8 3 4 ' / 2 Central Division W L Pct GB Cleveland 2 1 9 .70 0 Indiana 18 12 . 600 3 Chicago 17 12 .5 8 6 3 ' / 2 Detroit 17 15 . 531 5 Milwaukee 12 2 1 . 3 6 4 10'/2 WESTERN CONFERENCE Southwest Division W L Pct GB San Antonio 2 7 6 .81 8 Dallas 18 13 . 581 8 Memphis 18 16 .5 2 9 9 ' / 2 Houston 1 6 17 . 4 8 5 1 1 New Orleans 10 21 .32 3 16 Northwest Division W L Pct GB O klahoma City 22 10 .68 8 Utah 13 16 ,4 4 8 7 ' / 2 Portland 13 20 ,3 9 4 9 ' / 2 Denver 1 2 20 . 3 7 5 1 0 Minnesota 11 20 . 3 5 5 10'/2 Pacific Division W L Pct GB Golden State 29 1 .967 L.A. Clippers 1 9 13 . 5 9 4 1 1 Sacramento 12 1 9 . 3 8 7 17'/2 Phoenix 12 2 1 . 3 6 4 18'/2 L.A. Lakers 5 27 . 156 2 5 All Times PST
in Rockaway Beach, handing Jewell a 50-16beatingTueSday to SnaP afOurgame losing streak. Satori Albee controlled the paint for the EagleS, finiShing With 14 POintS Bnd 15 reboundS. AleXiS Sykora Bnd Natalie Williams both added seven points, with Sykora COlleCting eight bOardS, Bnd Emma Hite chipped in eight points. "At halftime we talked about not Playing dOWn to their leVel Bnd Playing uP to Our leVel," JOSePh head COaCh TraViS Hulffnan Said."In the SeCOndhalf We Came Dut With a lot Df energy." In Monday'S 41-23 1OSS to Willamina, Albee nearly miSSed On adOuble-dOuble as well, grabbing 14boards with eight POintS. Sykora alSO had 14 rebotmdS Bnd led the EagleS With 13 POintS, but the reSt Df the team WBS able to juSt muSter tWO POintS COlleCtiVely.
"%illamina) iS a gOOdteam," Huffman Said."They mOVe the ball Well Bnd they're diSCiPlined On OffenSe, Bnd We had quite a feW tL(rnOVerS."
Eagles rebound for blowout
The Eagles (4-5 overall, 0-1 Old Oregon League) battle UniOn On the rOad Saturday in nonleague aCtiOn.
JOSePh bOunCed baCk &Om a 1OSS to
Willamina at The DrifbVOOdClaSSiC
fOr One Df Collman'S gOalS, WhiCh WBS to
reach the state tournament each year Dfher Career. And it stuck with her. "I thOught abOut hOW WeCO uld be in the State tOurnament right nOW," She Said Dfher mindSet in the dayS after the loss.'That just motivated me."
That driVe togetbaCk to StatehaS permeated throughout the team. And that, COuPled With a Squad PlayerS Bnd coaches say is loaded with talent, has SPaWned high hOPeS aS to What the team can accomplish this season. '%e feel that we definitely have the talent Bnd if We WOrk hard enOugh, We can get there but we feel like we might be underachieving if we get anything less," Collman said.'%e feel like we ShOuldbe ableto gointOtheState tournament Bnd COmPete." Collman haS high hOPeS fOr her COllegiate future, Bnd to thiS POint haS talked with Whitman College, George FDX UniVerSity Bnd EaStern OregOn University. GiVen her driVe to take the TigerS to the tOP Df ClaSS 4A, MaCKay belieVeS Collman haS a bright future ahead. "She'S really gOal-Oriented Bnd driVen, Bnd I think beCauSe Df that, the Sky'S the limit fOr her, Bnd not juSt in basketball butas a person,"he said.
Df PerSOnneldeCiSiOnS laSt OffSeaSOn, Winning a POWer
struggle with then-general manager HOWie ROSemaTL
But Kelly tore apart a winning team Bnd SeVeral DfhiS boldmoves backfired. Since March 2014, Kelly released three-time Pro Bowl Wide reCeiVer DBSean JaCkSon, traded tWO-time All-Pro running baCk LBSean MCCOy, didn't re-sign 2014 Pro Bowl wideout Jeremy Maclin, cut tWO-time PrO BOW1 guard
Evan Mathis and traded quarterbaCk NiCk FoleS Bnd a 2016 second-round draft pick fOr Sam BradfOrd.
• 0
•
M1 C h Re l
R U S h t O n ~ D P M Po d iatric Physician & Surgeon
Treatment and Surgery of the Foot and Ankle • In-grown Nails • Bunions • Warts • Gout g . • Corns R Callouses • Diabetic Foot Screening • Foot Odor • Athletes Foot • Treatment for pain in feet, shins, heels, knees, lower back • Custom molded orthotics
Live Music in the Starbottle Saloon
The Hook
Dr. Rushton is a Preferred Provider for Lifewise and Blue Cross/Blue Shield and a Medicaire Participant. 'ihe doctor speaks Spanish — Et doctor habta Espanot.
New Years Eve 3
2830 10th Street, Baker City • 541-524-0122 1002 Spring Ave Suite 1, La Grande • 541-963-3431
www.anthonylakes.com
Celebrating
52 Years
It has been a pleasure to serve you for 15 Years e
e • 0
4r •
tn
I
rn . W : N .
%~' ~
M
'~
'tn
W
~
W
W
N
ur r + +. vgp: : W '
• 0
•
10A — THE OBSERVER
SENIOR LIVING
i+
I
S
•
y
S
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
•
g
g
5
fP
K WIA H . Paying Income Tax o n Social Securit y B enefit s Dear Savvy Senior, Will I have to pay federal income taxes on my Social Security benefits when I retire? Approaching Retirement Dear Approaching, W hether or not you'll b e
required topay federal income tax on your Social Security benefits will d epend on your i n come
and filing status. About 85 percent of Social Security r e cipients have total incomes high enough to trigger federal income tax on their benefits. To figure out if y our benefit s
will be taxable, you'll need to add up all of your "provisional income," which includes wages, taxable and non-taxable int erest,
dividends, pensions and taxable
rw
CONFUSED.;, '
D
,
;
,
'
.
„
retirement-plan di st r i b u t i ons, s elf-employment, and other t ax a ble income, plus half your an n u al Social Security benefits, minu s c ertain deductions used in fi g u r ing your adjusted gross income.
,
C
How To Calculate To help you with the calculations, get a copy of IRS Publication 915 "Social Security and Equivalent Railroad
WE CAN HELP RONALD G. 'BUD SCOUBES INSURANCE AND RETIREMENT SERVICES
Retirement Benefits," which provides detailed inst r u cti ons and Office: 541-437-3691 worksheets. You can download it Fax: 541-437-3691
77 N 8th Ave, Suite A Elgin, OR 97827
at irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p915.pdfor Cell: 541-786-4282 call the IRS at 800-829-8676 and ask them to mail you a free copy. After you do the calculations,
The staff and residentswould like to
the IRS says that if you're single
sincerely thank our employeesfor theirhard mork, dedication and years of service to our residents.
and your total i n come from all of the listed sources is:
• Less that $25,000, your Social Security will not be subject to federal income tax.
IRMAN IDIEPotSX TA U rTEREHAB LA Gr
• Between $25,000 and $84,000, up to 50 percent of your Social Security benefits will be
Bridging thegap rom ospital to Home 91 Aries Lane La Grande, OR 97850
taxed at your r egular i n come-tax rate.
• More than $84,000, up to 85
963-8678 FAX 963-5024
p ercent of your benefits wil l b e taxed.
If you're married and filing jointly and the total from all
any people havebeenasking
sources is:
if preplanned funeral arrangements are
Social Security won't be taxed.
M
transferable from one funeral home to
another. The simple answer is yes, they are. And the process is easy.
• Less that $82,000, your • Between $82,000 and $44,000, up to 50 percent of your Social Security benefits will be taxed.
• More than $44,000, up to 85
Call Loveland Funeral Chapel today, and let us take care of the details for you.
ILGVELrANiD FVN ~ CH A PSI ; and UnionCounty's Crematory 1508 FourthSt. 541-963-5022
p ercent of your benefits wil l b e taxed. If you're marr ied and fil e a separate return, you probably will pay t axes on your benefits. To limit p otential t a xes on
your benefits, you'll need to be
E
c autious when tak ing di st r i b u tions from ret i r ement accounts or o ther sources. In addit ion to t r i g gering ordinary i n come tax, a distribution t hat si gn i f i cantly r a i s es y our gross income can bump th e proportion of your Social Security benefits subject totaxes.
a
g
I
g]
W
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
{541} 963-4700 •
~ •
•
•
-
• •
want the taxes wit h h eld, you can file another W-4V to stop th e
withholding.
State Taxation In addition to the federal government, 18 states — Colorado, Connecticut, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North D ak ota,
Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont and West Virginia — tax Social Security benefits to some extent too. If you live in one of these states, check with y our st at e tax
agency for details. For questions on taxable Social
Security benefits call the IRS help line at 800-829-1040, or visit an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (see www.irs.gov/localcontacts1 where you can get face-to-
v ideo, night vi si on, buil t - i n motion and sound detection that can notify you when something is
happening, and two-way audio t hat let's you talk an d l i s t en .
And, they also offer a video recording option(for an extra fee1 that saves past video to acloud, so you can rewind and review what you missed.
One of the best products available todaythat does allthis and more is the Nest Cam (nest.com1, which costs $199, but if you want their vi deo recording option, it's
an extra $100 per year for a 10-day video history, or $800/year for 80 days. Also check out the Piper NV (getpiper.com1, which — at $279is more expensive than the Nest Cam but all ows free Int ern et
cloud storage. And the Simplicam (simplicam.com1, which is the c heapest of the t h ree but t h e
video quality isn't quite as good. They charge $150 for the camera, or $200 forthe camera plus 24-hour video storage for one year.
face help.
S ensor Monitor i n g Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit Savvysenior.org. Jim M iller is a contr i b u tor t o t h e NBC Today show and author of "The Savvy Senior" book.
If your mom is uncomfortable with vi deo monitoring, and doesn't want you to be able to peek in on her wh enever you want, another less invasive option to consider isa "sensor" monitoring system. T hese systems use small w i r e -
How to Keep Tabs On an Elderly Parent with Video Monitoring
less sensors(not cameras) placed
Dear Savvy Senior, Can you recommend somegood home video monitoring devices that can help my sister and me heep aneye on our elderly mother? Over the holidays, we noticed that her health has slipped a bit, and would like to heep a closer eye on her. Worried Daughters
phone call if something out of the ordinary is happening.
Dear Worried, There are lot'sof great video monitoring cameras that can help
didn't pick up her pillbox to get
families keep a watchful eye on
fast like she usually does, or if
an elderly parent f rom afar, but make sure it's OK w it h y our m om f irst. Many seniors find t hi s t y p e
she left the house at a peculiar
of "I'm watching you" technology to be an invasion of pri v acy, while others don't mind and even wel-
come the idea. With that said, h ere are some top monitori n g devices for keeping tabs on your mom.
V ideo Monitor i n g As the technology has
popular for keeping an eye on
•
107 Fir Street • La Grande
541-963-3731
•000
total benefit payment withheld. If you subsequently decide you don't
If you find t hat p ar t of y our
La Grande Hearing Aid Service
R •
Security office. You can choose to have 7 percent, 10 percent, 15 percent or 25 percent of your
home Wi-Fi. Although camera capabilities will vary, the best devices all provide wide-view angles, HD quality
in key areas of your mom's home that can detect changes in her a ctivity pa t t e r ns, and wil l n o t i f y you via text message, email or
A great company that offers
this technology is Silver Mother (sen.se/silvermother1, which provides small sensors that you attach to commonly used house-
hold objects like her pillbox, refrigerator door,TV remote, front door, etc. So, for example, if your mom her medicine or didn't open th e refrigerator door to make break-
time you would be notified and could check on her. You can also check up on her anyt ime you want online or t h r ough th eir
mobile app. Silver Mother costs $299 for four sensors, with no ongoing monthly service fees.
Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit Savvysenior.org. Jim M iller is a contr i b u tor t o t h e NBC Today show and author of "The Savvy Senior" book.
your home, business, child or pet
Eligiblefor
BI.
MedicareP
• Local office for better service • Serving Union County for over 38 years • Best pricing available... compare!
•
Call to schedule your tour today and experience the difference!
•
To have it withheld, you'll need to complete IRS Form W-4V, Voluntary Withholding Request (irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw4v.pdf1, and file it with your local Social
for monitoring an elder loved one who lives alone. M ost home video monitorin g cameras today are sleek, small a nd easy to set up, but do requir e
HEARING AIDs LQGAL •
•
•
•
puter1, but they also work well
How to File
AFFORDA
• •
(via smartphone, tablet or com-
Form 1040 or Form 1040A. You cannot use Form 1040EZ. You also need to know that i f you do owe taxes, you'll need to make quarterly estimated tax payments to the IRS or you can choose to have i t automatically w i t h h eld fr om your benefits.
improved and the costs have come down, video monitoring/surveillance cameras have become very
Social Security benefits will be
•
taxable, you'll need to file using
•000
letushelS Vou
make sense of it all Call Kathy Rienti 547-963-3727
a eij t603WashingtonAve,LaGrande
•000
Wednesday, December 30, 2015 The Observer & Baker City Herald
WARMER, DRIER WEATHER FORCES RANCHERSTO ADAPT
HAPPENINGS
IR
ICEN ICELLER
a~>w
Rep. Cliff Bentz seeks public comments on minimum wage
aa
a
94C.
BAKER CITY — Rep. Cliff Bentz, R-Ontario, has scheduled a public meeting in Baker City next month to listen to constituents' comments aboutproposalsto increase Oregon's minimum wage to $13.50 or $15 &om the curB ent z
I tlI
a
a
r
e
rent $9.25 The meeting will be Tuesday, Jan. 5, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Sunridge Inn, 1 Sunridge Lane.
Farm Bureau announces hiring of two new oNcials SALEM — The Oregon Farm Bureau announced the addition of two employees. Tyler Alexander is the Farm Bureau's new governm ent aff airsassociate. Alexander attended Lewis & Clark Law School, where he is a recent graduate. While Alexander in law school, Tyler worked in the U.S. Army Corps ofEngineers' Olfice of Counsel, as a clinical intern for the Western Resources Legal Center, and atDunn Carney,a Portland law fi rm . Additionally, Tyler was the Farm Bureau's law clerk this past spring and has worked on a variety of issues for Bureau prior to joining the team this month. His responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, lobbying members of the Oregon Legislature, building relationships with agency statf, and assisting OFB's policy counsel with legal research. Jacon Taylor is a new regional coordinator/field representative and will be traveling to meetings at Benton, Coos-Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Jackson, Josephine, Taylor Klamath-Lake, and Lane County Farm Bureaus to assist those volunteers in bringing new policies forward and addressing the many challenges to agriculture.
Law takingeffect3an.1 could affect Lottery winners who owe SALEM — A new Oregon law effective Jan. 1, 2016, authorizes the Department of Human Services and the Oregon Health Authority to garnish Oregon Lottery prize paymentsgreaterthan $600 torecover overpaymentsofpublicassistance,me dical assistance, and supplemental nutrition assistance. What does this mean to players? If a player claims a Lottery prize greater than $600 with the Lottery, the Lottery must check with DHS/OHA to see if the player owes an overpayment. If the player does, the Lottery is required to hold the prize payment for 30 days to allow DHS/ OHA to garnish the prize to recover the overpayment. How will it work? • DHS/OHA provides the Lottery with the names of people who owe overpayments. When paying a prize greater than $600 with the Lottery, the Lottery will check those names to see if the winner owes an overpayment. • If the winner owes an overpayment, the Lottery will hold the prize payment for 30 days and notify DHS/OHA and the player. • DHS/OHA may then garnish the prize. The Lottery will send a check to DHS/OHA for the amount of the prize or the garnishment, whichever is less. If the winner's prize is greater than the overpayment, the Lottery will pay the winner the balance left after paying the garnishment. • A winner may also voluntarily pay the overpayment. • The Lottery currently collects for delinquent child support. Under the new law, the garnishment for child support is paid before a garnishment for an overpayment. If there is any prize remaining, it will be applied to the garnishment for the overpayment.
About thiscolumn 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.
•000
BRAIN FOOD
'N/"
'
'
tsas, y
Kathy Orr/Wescom News Service file photo
Cattle grazing in Baker County.
By Keith Ridler Associated Press
BOISE, Idaho — Fighting the effects of climate change in Great Basin rangeland is drawing togetherfederal,state and private interests to deal with what scientists say isgreaterweather variability causing big swings in forage available for cattle and wildlife. Biomass can triple some years or seedeclines justasgreat,expertssay,and nativevegetation in the region that has survived climate variations for tens of thousands of years now faces challenges from invasive species and wildfires. In the politically red state of Idaho, though, arguments over global warming are generally avoided. "Forget that, we need to mitigate and act," said John Freemuth, a Boise State University professor and public lands expert. Of the many efforts underway, he's leading one with
a $500,000 grant from the U.S Bureau of Land Management to bring together federal,state and tribal entities to find ways to reduce the severity of rangeland wildfires.
"When you gojom green grass to brown grass, your protein and energy values severely decline." — Marty Gill, animal nutritionist and Idaho rancher
The most significant change follows an order by Interior Secretary Sally Jewell in January elevating the importance of rangeland wildfires when it comes toassigning resources. Ranchers have signed up to fight rangelandfi res,and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management is experimenting with targeted grazingtoreduce fueland create firebreaks in some areas. But some ranchers have had to pull cattle otf grazing allotments when food ran out early due to lack of moisture. In southwest Idaho and southeast Oregon, a giant rangeland fire last summer will keep ranchers olf grazing allotmentsforyears. "As we think about climate change, I think we do need to consider what does this mean for our ranching community and how arewe going to adapt going forward," said Janice Schneider,
the Interior Department's assistant secretary for Land and Minerals Management."A healthy economy and healthy ecosystem are inextricably linked." Certified animal nutritionist Marty Gill, whose family has ranched in Idaho since the 1880s, said he's seen an increase in ranchers pulling cattle otf rangeland earlier than normal because of lack of forage, resulting in lost income. ''When you go from green grass to brown grass, your protein and energy values severely decline," he said."In the last three or four years in particular, kind of in the Great Basin area, the snowpack has been very, very low." Precipitation in the Idaho portion of the Great Basin was slightly below normal last winter, said Troy Lindquist of the National Weather Service, and severalwarm spellsalsoreduced snowpack. Temperature records kept by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration say theaverage temperature for 2011 to 2014 in the Great Basin stateswas 1to 2 degreeswarmer than the previous 100 years. SeeClimate/Page 9B
Business resolutions for 2016 As the year draws to a close, allow me to suggest resolutions for the New Year thatare appropriate forthe leadersofevery size and type oforganization. Many individuals create a list of resolutions. These thoughts are well meaning attemptsto change ourselves or our environment to make the year just ahead less stressful ,m ore productive and overall, better. Only the top executive can creategoals,strategies and plans for the organizationthey are responsiblefor leading. Unfortunately, these resolutions often don't get past the wishful thinking stage and even if they do, the topexecutiverarely shares what they are thinking about how to make the company better. So, for those of you who truly seek significant change, take the time to think through not just the "what to do" but the "why we are doing it" and the "how it will be done" of your resolutions. Please use my list only as a starting point for your thinking and planning: Have a written plan for your organization. It doesn't have to be long and it doesn't even have to consist of many words. It does need to be filled with realistic goals and actions that can actually be accomplished during the year. As the top executive, make a decision to see more clients this year. If they cannot be met with in person, pick up the phone and call them. Calendar those to see and call, and stick with it. Set up a 12-month rolling calendar for your organization. Thisone tooladdresses many communication issues that once you create it you will wonder why you didn't do it before. SeeKeller IPage 9B
Snowsurge
duoVshoSes thatdrought
will disannear By Sean Ellis Capital Press
ONTARIO — A series of snowstorms over the Owyhee Basin has resulted in snowpack levels more than twice their normal amount for this time of year. That has given farmers in Eastern Oregon who get their irrigation water fiom the Owyhee Reservoir a reason to be optimistic for the first time in several years. The basin has experienced four straight years of reduced snowpack levels and the 1,800farms that depend on thereservoirhave had their annual water allotment slashed by two-thirds the past two years. Water has stopped flowing through the Owyhee Irrigation District's 400 miles of canals, laterals and ditches in August the past two years, two months earlier than normal. But as of Dec. 24, snowpack in the basin was at 233percent ofnormal forthatdate. "I'm really pleased with what Fm seeing so far," said dairyman and farmer Frank Ausman, a member of the Owyhee Irrigation Distric t'sboard ofdirectors.aWe're sitting quite a bit better at this time than we were the last couple of years." SeeDrought IPrge 2B
's
Jayson Jacoby /WesCom News Servrce file photo
Four years of drought have left Owyhee Reservoir depleted. This photo was taken in late October of this year.
•000
•000
2B —THE OBSERVER a BAKER CITY HERALD
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
BUSINESS 8 AG LIFE
ORGANIC FARMING ONTHE RISE IN EASTERN OREGON
PROPOSALTO PROTECT CANYON COUNTRY
r anics iowin in o Iiari By George Plaven
as possi ble,"Freeman said. In the past, Hummingbird PENDLETON — Eric Wholesale has purchased Nelson knew it wouldn't rice, beans and cranberries at be easy when he decided to premium organic prices from Organic sales rose farmers who have started the go organic on his family's 900-acre wheat farm north of from $88 million to process of certification. The Pendleton. $194 million in Oregon goalisto win overmore orNelson, a fourth-generabetween 2007 and 2012, ganic farms to keep up with tionfarmer,talked itover making up 4 percent demand, Freeman said. with his father — former of all farms sales A similar initiative for wheat has also been state Sen. David Nelsonstatewide. Nationally, the organic food launched by Ardent Mills, who wondered how they industry made $39 of Denver, which hopes to would control weeds without herbicide, or how they'd billion in 2015 — an11 double U.S. organic wheat afford organic fertilizer and acres by 2019. Oregon Tilth, percent increase over still turn a profit. But Nelson the previous year. a nonprofit organization that had faith it would work, and helps certify local organic in 2008 Nelson Grade Organfarms, has also signed on as icsharvested itsfi rstorganic a real issue without being a partner. Chris Schreiner, execucrop. able to use Roundup. "I'm very comfortable with In ordertomake itover tivedirector ofOregon Tilth, the hump, Nelson said he said the growing demand what we have done, what we're doing and where we're had to fororganicproducts isbeing getcreativewith going," Nelson said."For me, I his cropping systems. He driven in part by a renewed interest in food and earthsee no need to go back." uses spring grains such as Overall, the number of mustard and barley to break friendly practices. organic farms has declined up soil-borne diseases and From a grower standpoint, in Oregon between 2007 and replenish nutrients underSchreiner said there is a tremendous opportunity for 2012,yettotalorganic acres ground. ''We basically have to nearlyquadrupled over that goingorganic,butrecognizes time, according to the Nacreate our own nitrogen," he it doesn't come without risk. "Their challenge is figurtional Agricultural Statistics sald. Service. ingouta new management Wheat is still the big Organic salesalsorose money-maker on the farm, system and accessing those new markets," Schreiner from $88 million to $194 but Nelson recently started million in Oregon, making up sellingorganic mustard seed said.'We'recommitted to 4 percentofallfarms sales to Barhyte Specialty Foods supporting them and helping in Pendleton as an additional them seize that opportunity statewide. Nationally, the organic food industry made source of revenue. in the marketplace." "Some years are tough, but One of Eastern Oregon's $39 billion in 2015 — an 11 we have made a profit. We're largest irrigated organic percent increase over the still surviving," he said. previous year. growers, Threemile Canyon Despite the demand, A portion of Nelson's wheat Farms in Boardman, now becoming an organic farm goes to Hummingbird Whole- has 7,800 acres in certified organicvegetables.General takes serious time and monsale, a companyin Eugene ey. Fields cannot be sprayed thatdistributes dry organic Manager Marty Myers said with any prohibited chemithey hope to grow that total goods to small independent calsforatleastthree years grocery stores, restaurants to 12,000 acres over the next before they are certified and food processors. two years. organic. Without certificaGeneral Manager Justin Threemile Canyon Farms tion, products won't fetch the Freeman said most of the grows organic sweet peas, same kind of premium price products they buy come trom sweet corn, onions, carrots, western Oregon, but there at the market, which can be potatoes and edamame, is a growing interest among which are mostly sent to the as much as double or more farm's own frozen foods plant depending on the commodity. Eastern Oregon farmers in going organic. The key in Pasco. Frozen products are Nelson said he had help from the U.S. Department of hurdle, he said, is supporting sold primarily to Costco unAgriculturegetting started, derthe brand name Organic growers during that threeby Nature. but even that didn't help pay year transitional phase in all the bills. Organic fertilizer certification. The farmalsodeveloped "It's about finding solutions its first organic dairy earlier costs up to twice as much as forpeople and gettingrisk this year just east of Hermthe conventional stutf, and managing weeds can become out of the equation as much iston, with about 1,300 cows. East Oregonian
DROUGHT Continued ~om Page 1B But Ausman and other farmers said the snow needs to keep falling in order for growers to have an adequate water supply next season. "It's definitely ... a good start but it's a little early to start counting our chickens," Ausman said. OID Manager Jay Chamberlin said the storms have laid down a lot of snow proportionally over the whole watershed, unlike last year when the sparse snow the basinreceived was spotty. "Keep it coming. This feels
A GROWTH INDUSTRY
•000
Part of the requirement for an organic dairy is to let cows graze in pasture for at least 120 days outofthe year. Myers said Threemile Canyon first dipped its toes in organic farming in 2002,using fertilizergeneratedtrom the farm's dairies. Without that in-house fertil izersource,Myers said they likely couldn't make the organic operation work. Organic vegetables yield about 75 percent versus conventional methods, though Myers said premium prices make up for the hit. Growing organic means going back in time about 20 year in terms of productionpractices,he said. Sometimes, the only way to manage weeds is to pull them by hand. 'Therearea lotoffarmers who have tried it and didn't like it, for obvious reasons," Myers said.'We feel we can be a low-cost producer. That gives us an advantage over a lotofother producers." On a much smaller scale, Gus Wahner grows organic produce on about one-third of an acre in Stanfield, including tomatoes, basil, cucumber and garlic. Wahner hasbeen farming on andofffor30 yearsat his home, which he's named Way ofLife Farms. Though not certified organic, he said the land hasn't been sprayed since 1970. He raises produce from the greenhouse to the hoop house, and made
By Larry Meyer The (Ontano) Argus Observer
ONTARIO — In the debateover the creation of a national monument in MalheurCounty'sOwyhee Canyonlands, the local opposition, holds up the similarly-sized 1.9 millionacre Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in Utah as a reason not to have one. Those opposed to protections of a 2.5 million-acre area in the canyonlands include members of the Task Force in Opposition to the Wilderness/Monument Proposal of the Owyhee Canyonlands. While proponents, including members of Oregon Natural Desert Association, maintain that local industries will not be impacted by a designation,localopponents do not agree, instead saying a designation would greatly impact Malheur County's economic future.
Indeed, Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is cited by the Garfield County Commission as a major reason for its county's economic downturn. ''Wedeclared a state of emergency in June," Commissioner Leland Pollock said in an email to the Argus."After 20 years of the monument, the schools have dramatically lost students," he said. Since the Utah monument was designated, enrollment at Escalante High School dropped from 150 to 50, he said. The Grand StaircaseEscalante National Monument was designated in 1996 by President Bill Clinton in recognition of the region's unspoiled natural beauty, according to information trom Headwaters Economics. SeeOwyheelPage9B
Year-end gas prices lowest since 2008 Gasoline prices in the U.S. and Oregon haven't been this low at the end of a year since 2008 gave way to 2009, the AAA auto club reported. The national average has been hovering around $2 per gallonforregularunleaded. Oregon'saverage is$2.36, a result in part of recent refinery problems in California that have pushed that state's average to $2.84, highest in the nation. "Leadinginto2016,the national average isexpected to continue to slide because supply should continue to outpacedemand,"said Marie Dodds, publicaffairsdirector for AAA Oregon/Idaho.'Tight supplies on the West Coast will keep prices in this region volatile." Some Northeastern Oregon figures:
$15 000 in profit last year. Wahner, who serves on the Umatilla County Soil & Water Conservation District, is alongtime advocate of organic farming. He uses an aerobic system to brew his own compost"tea," which he sprays along with a mix of fish, kelp, molasses and sea minerals to create healthy organic soils.
•BakerCity — average $2.18 i$2.59 attheend of2014l •La Grande — average$2.19 i$2.68 atthe end of2014l •Enterpri se— average $2.69 i$2.99 attheend of2014l
'~~">~~ ~4egg; ballgame left, he said. 'Yes, things don't look nearly as bleak as they did last year," said Skeen, president of the Malheur County Onion Growers Association. "But we're a long ways trom the fourth quarter. We're just finishing the first quarter of the game."
didthe lastthree years," Chamberlin said."But we have a whole lot of room in an empty bucket. We can take whatever iis sent) us." Farmer Paul Skeen likened the current water situation to being early in a football game. While farmers areleading,there'sa lotof
l~ t' l~lff~gr g
I~kh'f)~kltl' ~' " 2$)'l'lf
.'(klt-ltOfJA'
NORTHEAST OREGON 2016
RESOURCE GUIDE
gountba S HEDS ' "Nore ThanJusta Shed" TOP QUALITY CUSTOM BUILT
Mention this ad to get a
STORAGE BUILDINGS
Free Light My Shed 3
10102 S. McAltster Road
good," he said. The reservoir provides w aterfor 118,000 irrigated acres in Malheur County in southeastern Oregon and around Homedale and Marsing in southwestern Idaho. Farmers in this area have had toaltertheirrotations and farming practices as a resultofdrastically reduced w atersuppliesthe lastthree years. A lot of farm ground has been left idle and growershave planted a lotm ore cropsthatrequire lesswater but also bring less income. While farmers and water supply managers expressed optimism at the current snowpack situation in the basin, they also cautioned that it's still early in the snow season and the reservoirneeds a lotm orewater. To guarantee a good water supply year, the reservoir needs about 450,000 acre-feet ofstorage water, Chamberlin said. It's holding about50,000 acre-feetright now. ''We're going into 2016 in a lot better shape than we
Owyhee plan foes cite Utah struggles
with the purchase of your custom or pre-built shed.
NORTHEAST OREGON HEALTH 8< WELLNESS is a comprehensive directory of local services to maintain and regain good health. It's available to residents in Baker, Union and Wallowa counties. This colorful magazine features a slickstock, glossy cover and a convenience magazine size format for easy-reference and advertising impact. This publication is available in print and online for year-round use. Don't miss this opportunity to speak to the Northeast Oregon health, fitness and medical market. This publication will be distributed in The Baker City Herald, The Observer, at high traffic medical locations, information centers and online.
See our display lot at
Island Ctty or 3515 Pocahontas Rd (acrossfrom DAB)Baker Ctty
99 Value.
(541) 663-0246 or toll free (800) 682-0589
ountrysidesheds.co
Loca ly owned andoperated for over 20years
DISTRIBUTED IN PRINT AND ONLINE WITH
YOULOVe SHOPPINB
%atter Citg J~hrath
THKOBsERvER AND AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT NORTHEASTOREGON
TBLL UScILLQBQUTIT BND YOLI COULD WIN •
•
•
~
•
DON'T MISS THIS UNIQUE, LONG SHELF-LIFE ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITY CONTACT YOUR ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE
•
To enter nom, go to:
w ww.p u l s e p o l l . c o m Pulse Research
•000
5aher Kttg 3<emlb T H E 085ERVER 541-523-3673
541-963-3161
1915 FIRST ST., BAKER CITY, OR 97814
1406 FIFTH ST., LA GRANDE, OR 97850
•000
PUZZLES 8 COMICS
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
y
SUDOKU
By DAVID OUELLE T
®
THE OBSERVER a BAKER CITY HERALD — 3B
HOW TO P L A Y : All the words listed below appear in the puzzle — horizontally, vertically, diagonally and even backward. Find them, circle each letter of the word and strike it off the list. The leftover letters spell the W ONDERWORD . H OW D O Y O U L IKE YOU R E G G P L A N T ? Solution: 10 l e t t er s
Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains every digit from 1 to 9 inclusively. MONDAY'SSOLUTION
R F S U E A E H R X I E 0 E T V A E T R S L A S T L P 0 E I B U D U Q U E 0 C A L T Y H K A R M C T R A I A U A P R C H
M C G B A A E F E S E E H K I
M I P T T C C 0 S S M A E A C
U U U S I R M T A E F T R S K
H Q 0 L
R C S A
E V U E
P P E P Q K S E S U T
A
E
E
I
E QV 0
B L B H N D E I C 0 Y E D I A
0 0 QE
D C
QOL R
N
L
E Q NU D
D R R B B S E
I 0 I A S U N
L L T L A 0 0
L E T L Z M C
A S E S Z H A
E W
T
D N A S P P D N
S A P S A L A D
A E R B I D B
V
al wr dt
so dh
ol
oo
DIFFICULTY RATING: ** *
* 4
OTHERCOAST L
l CALLlTA
FI75BEE. lAMSOOVER GOFETIIT' THESR )NEAGE, hm 4 .
•
4
o
0
da cm dm a
O
a'
'dm
dh
FLOAND FRIENDS
© 2015 Universal Uclick www.wonderword.com Download the Wonderword Game App!
$ 2P/29
Add, Bacon, Bake, Beef, Boats, Breaded, Casserole, Caviar, C heese, C h i c k en , C h i ps , C u b e d , C u r ry , D i p s , E x t r a ct , F r i e d , F ritters , H e r b s , H u m m u s , M e a t b a l l s , M e d l e y , M o u s s a k a , N oodles, O m e l e ts , O v e n , P a r m e s an , P a s ta , P a t t i es , P e p p e r , P ickled , P i z z a , Q u e s a d i l l a , Q u i c h e , Q u i n o a , R a t a t o u i l l e , R oasted, R o ll , S a l ad , S a n d w i c h es , S a u c e , S l i ce , S o u p , T o f u
I TS ~ (A lr. T4 wcoL ls Fpz3H YSAOf IFUL
)TS EXIPE/hEmtUE. {ES,SVT SO
)SN'f RHAT Ir 151 'IA/T col&DUs. M'r pizics
SHEARER. )P)/74Y OVT OF
A
HIMIAl l / P E S LUE-
D JatLPgatC/ah, 'FCUNCJ ONI Y
ATTHE HIGHES> E;LEVATIONS I4 RRTE JEg Ptt/ES!
Y A~
AvD Yot/ TELL. IT e,LI I
g.
Yg5,
Monday's Answer: Elm Street To purchase THE COLLECTED WONDERWORD, Volume 35, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42 or
43, order online at www.WonderWordBooks.com. (Contains 43 puzzles.) PEANUTS
B.C. THEN tt)E'LL GOONTOTHE NORTH AMERICANIN OAKLANDAND FROMTHERE117 THEIIOKLDS ' INCOLORADO..
FIRSTl)E'tL EN TER THEUN ITEDSTATES FIGURESKATING CHAMP IONSHIPSIN 5EATTLE..
I CAN SEE IT NO4)... TROPHIE5, ACCLAIM
WE R.'E- AL/IAOST THERE, FBLLAS. THE I lslFAMOLIS KILLER HILL.
COLD FEET!
Jchnnarlgtudos com/237 /5
PICKLES
IT SEE/I/)E D BI&&ER WHEN WE WBRE KIDS,
PEHOLD, THE El-ITE SLBDDER.'S LAST VEST(&E OF SANITY
IT WILL F&El LONC7ER WHEN WE CLIA/IB PACK
t)P IT,
oc stthotda hart woJohn Han nttrghtsreser ed
BOUNDS.GAGGED fHE.'? 3U5r CckFu5E
UOW Rvr Vot) EVER USETHE.
hAE, I POW hKEP Akl IM9%uCTION)NtAk)uAL
iiusTRUcrio~
Iv)AkluAL EARL'P
irs 5OPtt)gEV To 8E A LAMP fgASLE,
fo Puf foCEfHER A SftjPIP eooKCASE!
0
EVECVO/tlE/5
wo ~
4 Ãnrc!!
r Co L ED/
~E :~ Fd I Plk HI CA I &s, oF
>77
4'
E. o
72/30
l &
I
MOTHERGOOSE5. GRIMM
THE WIZARD OFID olrust tco loa Hauwo t John han ns gnts rese ed
CALM QOWNI
I JUSTCAME
Foa VOuR,
•
Yds
JU 5 T A WIZ I : S EC PINNER = 'is - T RAN INTo READY! TRO UBLE WITH A
50 EXCITED ABOUT THE FISH
SIELL
FLE.AC
•
0N THE BRI&HT SIDE,
IVB NEVER SEEN YoU
()
tt,'47RV), II
c7
V
/ w74
/2 3/7 /5
'It tardoltdcom
GARRELD
TUNDRA
NO'THINS E)UR' HOPELESSNESS ANP PESPAIFI LIES SEFOEIE ME
ANp Now lr's
12-30
SEIIdCPTECHIdOLOC7ICALLY CHALLEhlC7ED / PAVE HII2E5 50/vIEOhlE EL5E TO SUILD HI5 WE85ITE
EJEHINP ME
0 0
to V 0
0
V
e/
e
r
t0gV
tl ah
so d
J
LEM DA4H5 J2.30
RUBES
©Tuggdra2015
ctassic DOONESBURY (1985)
LOSE TOHOME .
" 77
SCIL., rM SIPPE MIKE,EELIEVE /F YCT/ GL/75 ME, THEPIAMEP, Zu5T TALK ANDT HAVE ITOLIT N OTHIPIG TO TALK
IL-I
ANlÃATION wa
BY G.B. TRUDEAU
TOOEADINARIAY.IN 7HENENOP/JOIITIIN/7Y5OOE TY, 7HEPE5PIÃHPIR YTPIYOPE!5OMEKA'S JÃTHA I/EN'T CALGHTON THAT/75 MOOIING IN AHERICA!
u +
LOOK,70SEGIN YODLLNEVER
/IIITH, TM NOT /IIAKE AN EPIA MOPPIIPIG ~ EUR, PE/05ON" 5IEEPY HEAD' III JJ/u
Dlo qOL) SEl-:TELKNO~
SLIIIXWTeiT55)XLT'~
'>':-: '~:RAAP:,''
xzcor!
MW X/o0
TIllNKT.NNOT
4 >QER IKlGTHEPHOHE~
eee
eee e
IC- JO
JQ~~
MALLARD RLLMORE
i
~qgpA-
p)jg7PFP
o
SOPPLeSP M PS ~
iiil ~V~~>~"~ ~P PQ~
"I'm just so grateful that someone nearby happened to know CPR!"'
~
~
' fIIA 9O, M ~ P Y
~uP. ~ , $ItA IAI~W ' +e %>~f g~
9 % @?
•
Does your carrier never miss a cIay? Are they always on time, no matter what kind of weather? Do they bring your paper to your front door? If so we want to hear from you. The Observer and Baker City Herald wants to recognize all of our outstanding carriers and the service they provide to ensure your paper gets to you. Let us know about their service by sending your comments to cthom son@la randeobserr/ercom or send them to
14065t StreetLa Grande ORJ/7850
III II@y(gtt/g) g4)TIIRtw@ ~ Q 7
• 0
•
• 0
•
• 0
•
4B —THE OBSERVER a BAKER CITY HERALD
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
PUBLISHED BY THE LAGRANDE OBSERVER & THE BAKER CITY HERALD - SERVING WALLOWA,UNION & BAKER COUNTIES
DEADLINES: LINE ADS: Monday: noon Friday Wednesday: noon Tuesday Friday: noo nThursday DISPLAY ADS:
2 days prior to publication date
4© El
Baker City Herald: 541-523-3673 ® www.dakercityherald.com• classifiedsOdakercityherald.com• Fax: 541-523-6426 The Observer:541-963-3161® www.la randeodserver.com • classifieds©lagrandeodserver.com • Fax:541-963-3674 105 - Announcements
LAMINATION
105 - Announcements
Up to 17 1/2 inches wide any length $1.00 per foot (The Observeris not responsible for flaws in material or machine error) THE OBSERVER 1406 Fifth • 541-963-3161
105 - Announcements CHECK YOUR AD ON THE FIRST DAY OF PUBLICATION We make every effort t o a v o i d err o r s . However mistakes d o s l i p thr o u g h .
105 - Announcements SETTLER'S PARK ACTIVITIES
110 - Self-Help Group Meetings AL-ANON MEETING in Elgin. Meeting times
1st tlt 3rd FRIDAY (every month) Ceramics with Donna 9:00 AM — Noon. (Pnces from $3- $5)
1st tlt 3rd Wednesday
Evenings ©6:00 pm Elgin Methodist Church 7th and Birch
110 - Self-Help Group Meetings NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS:
120 - Community Calendar
Monday, Thursday, tlt Fnday at8pm. Episcopal Church 2177 First St., Baker City.
210 - Help WantedBaker Co.
You too can use this Attention Getter . Ask howyou can get your ad to stand out
HKLP ATTRACT ATTNTION TO YOURAP!
Check your ads the NARCOTICS AL-ANON Aclcl BOLDING like this! first day of publicaANONYMOUS Concerned about or a BORDER! MONDAY NIGHT THE DEADLINE for tion tlt please call us HELP someone else's Nail Care placing a immediately if you LINE-1-800-766-3724 drinking? It's a little extra 6:00 PM (FREE) Classified Ad is find an error. NorthMeetings: 145 - Yard, Garage Sat., 9 a.m. that gets prior to 12:00 p.m. east Oregon Classi8:OOPM: Sunday, MonNortheast OR TUESDAY NIGHTS Sales-Union Co. BIG results. ONE BUSINESS fieds will cheerfully day, Tuesday, WednesCompassion Center, Craft Time 6:00 PM DAY BEFORE make your correc1250 Hughes Ln. day, Thursday, Fnday (Sm.charge for matenals) Have your ad tion tlt extend your Noon: Thursday PUBLICATION. Baker City STAND OUT LATCH Publication Days: ad 1 day. 6:OOPM: Monday,Tues(541 ) 51 9-7920 EVERY WEDNESDAY for as little as Baker County's Mondays, Bible Study; 10:30 AM AL-ANON-HELP FOR day, Wednesday, Thurs$1 extra. breastfeeding support PREGNANCY day (Women's) Wednesdays and Public Bingo; 1:30 PM group. Meets every SUPPORT GROUP families tlt fnends of alALL YARD SALE ADS 7:OOPM: Saturday Fridays ( .25 cents per card) Pre-pregnancy, 2nd tlt 4th Thursday c oho l i c s . U n i on MUST BE PREPAID THE BAKER City Public of the month pregnancy, post-partum. First Lutheran Church County. 568 — 4856 or Rear Basement EnWorks Department is EVERY MORNING — Noon 11 a.m. 541-786-9755 FREE KID'S CLUB 963-5772 You can drop off your trance at 1501 0 Ave. seeking qualified appliSt. Luke's EOMA, (M onday — nday) F F RIDAYS payment at: cants for the position VETERANS OF Exercise Class; 3950 17th St. AL-ANON. At t i tude o f The Observer 1:30 p.m. — 3:30 p.m. o f Utility W o r k e r FOREIGN WARS 9:30AM (FREE) 541-523-3681 Gratitude. W e d n e s1st-6th grades 1406 5th St. C loses J a n uary 8 , POST 3048 days, 12:15 — 1:30pm. 1734 3rd St. La Grande 2016 at 4:00 p.m. For MONTHLY MEETING Faith Lutheran Church. NO DECEMBER Use Valley St. entrance more information and PINOCHLE 2nd Thurs. of the month. 1 2th tlt G e keler, L a MEETING OR under Kid's Club sign h ow to a pply g o t o Fndays at 6:30 p.m. Post tlt Auxiliary meet at Grande. PARKINSON'S Support TAKE US ON YOUR www.bakercity.com. Senior Center 6:30 p.m. VFW Hall, Group, open to those PHONE! +Visa or Mastercard, Call 541-963-3161 or 541The City of Baker City is 2810 Cedar St. 2005 Valley Ave., Baker LEAVE YOUR PAPER ALCOHOLICS with Parkinson's/Careare accepted.+ 523-3673 to place your ad. an EEO employer. Public is welcome 541-523-4988 AT HOME ANONYMOUS gtver's. 3rd Mon. each can help! month. 4:30-5-:30pm Yard Sales are $12.50 for 100 - Announcements 600 - Farmers Market 24 HOUR HOTLINE FULL editions of at GRH, Solanum. 5 lines, and $1.00 for BAKER SCHOOL DIS(541 ) 624-51 1 7 each additional line. 105 - Announcements 605 - Market Basket TRICT 5J is currently The Baker City www oregonaadistrict29 org Callfor more info: 110- Self Help Groups 610 - Boarding/Training accepting applications EATING TOO MUCH? 541-963-3161. Herald Servtng Baker, Union, 120 - Community Calendar 620 - Farm Equipment 8 Supplies f or S u b s t i t ut e B u s DIETS DON'T WORK! are now available and Wallowa Counties Drtvers. A CDL is reMust have a minimum of 130 - Auction Sales 630 - Feeds Fn., 8:45 a.m. online. 10Yard Sale ad's to q uired. B S D 5 J w i l l ALZHEIMERSPresbyterian Church 140 - Yard, Garage Sales, Baker Co 640 - Horse, Stock Trailers pnnt the map. train viable candidates. DEMENTIA 1995 Fourth St. 3 EASY STEPS 143 - Wallowa Co 650- Horses, Mules, Tack $14.10 per hour. For a (use alley entrance) Support Group meeting 1. Register your 145- Union Co 660 - Livestock complete description Calk 541-523-5128 account before you 2nd Friday of every mo. BAK A K E RS 2 7 0 1 o f th e p o s i t ion a n d 150 - Bazaars, Fundraisers 670 - Poultry www.oa.org/podcast/ leave 11:30 am to 1:00 pm. Bearco Lp, LG, has qualifications p l ease 160- Lost 8 Found 675 - Rabbits, Small Animals 2 . Call to s t o p y o u r 1250 Hughes Lane used tire chains $15 t o g0 Baker City Church 170 - Love Lines 680 - Irrigation pnnt paper ea, chest of drawers AA MEETING: www.baker.k12.or.us 3. Log in wherever you of the Nazarene 180 - Personals 690 - Pasture $ 20 t o $ 1 2 5 , a n d Powder River Group or contact the employare at and enloy (In the Fellowship Hall) many other bargains. Mond 7 PM -8 PM ment dtvtston. Yo u 541-523-9845 W edd 7PM- 8 P M may aIs o c a II 200 -Employment 700 - Rentals Fnd 7 PM -8 PM 541-524-2261 or email BAKER COUNTY 210- Help Wanted, Baker Co 701 - Wanted to Rent Grove St. Apts. nnemec©baker.k12.or. Cancer Support Group 160 - Lost & Found 220 - Union Co 705 - Roommate Wanted Corner of Grove tlt D Sts. us Meets 3rd Thursday of Baker City, Open 230 - Out of Area 710- Rooms for Rent Call Now to Subscribe! every month at MISSING YOUR PET? Nonsmoking 541-523-3673 St. Lukes/EOMA © 7 PM 280 - Situations Wanted 720 - Apartment Rentals Check the Wheel Chair Accessible Contact: 541-523-4242 Baker City Animal Clinic 730 - Furnished Apartments SUMMER EVENT 541-523-3611 COORDINATOR 110 - Self-Help 740- Duplex Rentals Baker Co 300 - Financial/Service CHRONIC PAIN SAFE HAVEN 745 - Duplex Rentals Union Co Group Meetings Support Group 310- Mortgages, Contracts, Loans The Baker City Herald Alzhetmer/Dementta Meet Fndays — 12:15 pm 750 - Houses for Rent PLEASE CHECK 320 - Business Investments AA is looking for an Caregivers 1207 Dewey Ave. Baker Blue Mountain 760 - Commercial Rentals "As Bill Sees It" event coordinator who 330 - Business Opportunities Support Group IPT Wellness Connection Humane Association Satd 10AM — 11AM will be responsible 770 - Vacation Rentals 2nd Friday of 340 - Adult Care Baker Co 541-523-9664 Facebook Page, 2533 Church St for managing every month 780 - Storage Units 345 - Adult Care Union Co if you have a lost or Baker Valley 2016 Miners Jubilee, 11:45 AM in Fellowship 790 Property Management found pet. 350 - Day Care Baker Co Church of Chnst and assisting with CIRCLE OF FRIENDS Hall (Right wing) of 795 -Mobile Home Spaces Open other sponsored 355 - Day Care Union Co Nazarene Church (For spouses w/spouses events and marketing. 360 - Schools 8 Instruction who have long term 1250 Hughes Lane 800 - Real Estate Baker City terminaI illnesses) 380 - Service Directory 180 - Personals DETAILS AA MEETING: 801 - Wanted to Buy Meets 1st Monday of The position can be Survior Group. every month at St. 810- Condos, Townhouses, Baker Co MEET S I NGLES right VETERAN'S Mon., Wed. Ilt Thurs. structured as a 400 - General Merchandise Lukes/EOMA©11:30 AM now! No paid opera815 - Condos,Townhouses,Union Co SAFE ZONE Summer Internship, 12:05 pm-1:05 pm. $5.00 Catered Lunch 405 - Antiques tors, Iust real people Veteran's Support Group 820 - Houses for Sale, Baker Co Full-Time; June-August Presbytenan Church, Must RSVP for lunch 410- Arts 8 Crafts l ike y o u . Bro ws e Thursday's at 6 PM -OR825 - Houses for Sale, Union Co 1995 4th St. 541-523-4242 greetings, ex change 415 - Building Materials Left Wing of (4th tlt Court Sts.) Pa rt-Tim e; Ap nl/M ay 840- Mobile Homes, Baker Co m essages and c o nNazarene Church 420 - Christmas Trees NORTHEAST OREGON Full-Time; June/July Baker City. Open, 845 - Mobile Homes, Union Co n ect Itve. Try it f r e e. 1250 Hughes Lane CLASSIFIEDS of fers 425 - Computers/Electronics No smoking. 850- Lots 8 Property, Baker Co CaII n ow : Baker City Self Help tlt Support Most work weeks will 430- For Sale or Trade 877-955-5505. (PNDC) 855 - Lots 8 Property, Union Co G roup An n o u n c e be Monday — Fnday, 435 - Fuel Supplies 860 - Ranches, Farms ments at n o c h arge. but requires working AA MEETINGS 440 - Household Items For Baker City call: weekends for 870 - Investment Property 2620 Bearco Loop WALLOWA COUNTY 445 - Lawns 8 Gardens J uli e — 541-523-3673 sponsored events. La Grande AA Meeting List 880 - Commercial Property For LaGrande call: 450 - Miscellaneous E n ca — 541-963-31 61 REQUIREMENTS 460 - Musical Column MON, VVED, FRI AlcoholicsAnonymous 900 - Transportation The ideal candidate NOON-1 PM Monday, Wednesday, 465 - Sporting Goods NARACOTICS 902 - Aviation will be organized and TUESDA Y Fnday, Saturday 7 p.m. 470 - Tools ANONYMOUS detail onented, with 910 - ATVs,Motorcycles,Snowmobiles 7AM-8AM Tuesday, Wednesday, Goin' Straight Group 475 - Wanted to Buy excellent customer TUE, VVED, THU 915 - Boats 8 Motors Thursday noon. M t ct , servtce and 480 - FREEItems 7PM-8PM Women only 920 - Campers — Tues. Mon. interpersonal skills. SAT, SUN AA meeting Thurs. Ilt Fri. — 8 PM 210 - Help Wanted925 - Motor Homes Expenence with 10AM-11AM Wednesday 11a.m., Episcopal Church 500 - Pets 8 Supplies Baker Co. 930 - Travel Trailers, 5th Wheels organizing events, 113 1/2 E Main St., Basement sales, or customer 505 - Free to a Good Home 940 - Utility Trailers ACCEPTANCE GROUP Enterpnse, across from FREE RENT! 3-bdrm apt. 2177 1st Street service preferred. 510- Lost 8 Found of Overeaters Courthouse Gazebo includes most utilities 950- Heavy Equipment Baker City Anonymous meets Hotline 541-624-5117 in trade for caretaker 520 - Pet Grooming 960 - Auto Parts For more information, Tuesdays at 7pm. (includes light mainte525 - Pet Boarding/Training 970 - Autos for Sale or to submit your United Methodist Church WALLOWA nance.) 20 hours per 530- Pet Schools, Instruction 990 - Four-Wheel Drive resume for on 1612 4th St. in the UNION COUNTY 606 W Hwy 82 w eek. Must b e m a consideration, 550 - Pets, General library room in the AA Meeting PH: 541-263-0208 ture, r e t ired c o u ple Kan Borgen, Info. 1000 - Legals basement. Sunday preferred. Call Dennis ktaoremail en@taakercr herald com 541-786-5535 541-663-41 1 2 7:00p.m.-8:00 p.m. to apply. 541-519-5889
SUSSCRISNS!
I'
I INSmut. -
>esfriefions etghf
I
I
e Date
I30
03-29-200g
0 Hergftt
5'09' pe-old CI4rcrIM
2000
8 peAded: 16-02.2002 Reason Falled to appear in co
PriVe S O b er . T'he Way tO OO. Transportation Safety -
DOT
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
THE OBSERVER a BAKER CITY HERALD — 5B
PUBLISHED BY THE LAGRANDE OBSERVER & THE BAKER CITY HERALD - SERVING WALLOWA, UNION & BAKER COUNTIES
DEADLINES : LINE ADS:
Monday: noon Friday Wednesday: noon Tuesday Friday: no o n Thursday DISPLAY ADS:
2 days prior to publication date
Baker City HeraId: 541-523-3673e www.bakercityheraId.com • classifiedsObakercityheraId.com• Fax: 541-523-6426' The Observer: 541-963-3161e www.la randeobserver.com • classifiedsOlagrandeobserver.com • Fax: 541-963-3674
-'st a
R E l
®'=
220 - Help Wanted 220 - Help Wanted 220 - Help Wanted Union Co. Union Co. Union Co. IT IS UNLAWFUL (Sub- THE CITY of La Grande CUSTODIAN FOR sectio n 3, O RS is accepting applica- U nion Count S e n i o r 6 59.040) for an e m tions for the following Center: Ge n e ral indoor maintenance and ployer (domestic help posltlon: excepted) or employCommunications o ccasional e x t e r i o r ment agency to print Tech I maintenance. Starts at or circulate or cause to Required City application $9.71 per hour; up to be pnnted or circulated may be obtained from 1 9 hours pe r w e e k any statement, adverthe City of La Grande with occasional weektisement o r p u b l ica- website at: ends. Pr e - e mployt ion, o r t o u s e a n y www.cit ofla rande.or ment drug screen and form of application for or Heather Ralkovich criminal history backemployment o r to in the Finance Departground check. Comm ake any i n q uiry i n ment, City Hall, 1000 plete lob d e scription c onnection w it h p r o- Adams Ave., PO Box and application availspective employment 670, La Grande, OR able at Oregon Emwhich expresses di97850, 541-962-1 31 6, ployment Department rectly or indirectly any hbur ess©at ofla rande.or or o n- l i n e at limitation, specification Closing date: Open unwww.ccno.org. Posior discnmination as to t il filled w it h f i rst r e tion closes January 14, view o f a p p l ications 2016 at 5pm. EOE. race, religion, color, sex, age o r n a t ional that are received by ongin or any intent to 5:00 p.m., January 11, make any such limita2016 AA/EEO
No, Polly wants a subscriptio n to the Classifieds because that's the bestplace to find a job!
Polly want a cracker7
t ion, specification o r discrimination, unless THE CITY of La Grande is accepting applicab ased upon a b o n a tions for the following fide occupational qualiOPENING FORSHORT posltlon: fication.
When responding to Blind Box Ads: Please be sure when you address your resumes that the address is complete with all information required, including the
Blind Box Number. This is the only way we have of making sure your resume gets to the proper place.
FULL TIME Bartender Days and Nights, must have or be able to obtain an OLCC server's permit. Apply in person at The Hideout Saloon at 219 Fir Street.
LOGGER DRIVERS Police Officerin John Day area Entry Level/LateraI CDL and Expenence Transfer Required City application Benefit package available may be obtained from (Health Insurance, Cafeteria Plan, 401IC and the City of La Grande Life Insurance) website at: For more information call www.cit ofla rande.or IRON TRIANGLE LLC or Heather Ralkovich 541-575-21 02 in the Finance Departwill email application ment, City Hall, 1000 Adams Ave., PO Box brendal©centur tel.net 670, La Grande, OR COME JOIN Our Team 97850, 541-962-1 31 6, hbur ess©at ofla rande.or Amencan Family Insurance in La Grande is First review of a p plicalooking for a Customer tion January 5, 2016. S ervice Rep. 2 5 h r s AA/EEO per wk. Two yrs. Office experience including sales, c u stomer Step into the world of service, data entry and classified advertising, billing. Pay DOE, Open where you'll find lust until f i lled . C o n t a ct Brian A be ll at a bout anything y o u 541-663-1919. may be looking for!
'I
•
•
• II
•
•
5 nher Ciitf~3eralb THE 08$ER VER
I I
I
c cbA'1 so 2 0 9
J IM S T A N D L E Y 5 4 1 - 7 6 6 -5 5 0 5
NEED A NEW APPLIANCE?
K le c h e n A ld ' D u y
F
ELGIN ELECTRIC
Anita Fager, Principal Broker
e~+ gf<t<f 's Custom gg~
~mWv W~mv 3W~ S p e c i a l i z in g In A l l P h a s e s D f C o n s t r t a c t i o n a nd G a r a g e D o o r I ns t a l l a t i o n
gg~ ' g
Owner
See All RMLS Listings
al
Residential, Rental and Commercial Cleaning g' ServingPnion County since 2006 Licensed~d Insiaed Shann aVer
at
www. Valleyreal~.net
541 963 4174 10201 W. 1st St., Suite 2 La Grande, OR Cell 541 910 3393
g2
•
aradise Truck & RVWash We Wash Anything on Wheelsl Exit 304cff -84• 2410PumSt Baker City, OR97814
Baker City, ORCCB¹208043 HomeRepairs Fences8Decks Sheds Painting Windo)47
541-523-5070 541-519-8687
Repla cement•LandscapeMaintenance LicensedIBonded
www paradisetruckwash com Auto Detailing • RV Dump Station
CILL PETE R 54l-Sl9-0466
•
Wreckinga Recyctiltg Quality Used Parts New a UsedTires BuyingFerrous and Nolt-Ferrous Metals• Wealso Buy Cars
54I-5234433::."',. .
•
Quality,ProfessionalWorkmanship
B~ynosis k.Wellcoadtq'z® • • • •
Shed Those Extra Pounds Stop Smoking Forever Improve Your Performance Dissolve Stress and Anxiet
•
•
Caff Mits at5 4i-786- 7 2 2 9
Koleidoscope
Andy Wolfcr541-910-6609
~ ~
Lgcho CaipetClean Compang Residential/Commercial, DeepClean, Move in/out cleans, Living room,Beds,Stain Removal, PetOdor Control, Air Freshener Free Estimates andReferencesAvailable. Nicolas Luna, Owner/Operator
(936) 676-4720 Mon-Sun 24 Hrs• Baker City, GR 97814
1705 Main Street Suite 100 • PO. Box 470 • Baker City, OR 97814 541 523 5424 • fax 541 523 5516
sarCljt Rapal IKlatlji
. JANUAR YSALES Httga~ISI"fS
unbeatable Prices! 1431 Adams Ave. La Grande 541-663-0724
A/I Breeds• No Tranquilizers • Dog & Cat Boarding
541-523-60SO •
PC Tune-up, Virus Removal, e-m a il issues Printer install, Training, W i -Fi issues
D ALE BQ G A R D U s $40.00 FLAT RATE FOR ANY ISSUE
7 1-241 - 7 0 6 •
0 d
541-523-7163 l LE'( 29 Years Experience
Home Lending Kevin Spencer, MortgageLoanOfficer NMI8¹3401 Ce 208-484-0085 kevinspen cer@ timpqtiabankcom wwworeidahom eoanscom
U~p~ Up
• 4, • N • g
E CAVATlON
6
SIGNS OFALL KINDS -CHECK OUR rrEBSITE
oregonsigncompanycom5 41 5 2 3
9 3 2 2
•
MICHAEL 541-7S6-S463
eyexcavationCgmail.com
tstctturctt• Personal • Mectnind'nt
Traller
A Certified Arborist
K~Na rsi g
i
CCB¹ 168468 •
I II '
ALL OFFFETCOMMERCIAL PRINTING
•
PCRePairNeWCO mPIIlers(ILaPIOPSI PC'S) OnSiteBusinessI Resileiltisl Comp uterClasses
Thatcher'sAceHardware 8(LaGrandeAceHardware 2212IslandAve, 2200ResortSt,Baker
54'I-786-4763 • 54'I-786-2250
Paint-Plumbing-Tools8(More!
'l609 Adams Ave.,La Grande
CNC Plasma Metal Cutting • Graphic Design Large Format Digital Printing Vehicle Lettering a Graphics
M. Curtiss PN-7077A CCB¹ 183849
www.rueyexcavation.com
541-523-3371 4,
vis it your oseslcUmpqtia Bank
Qaf GON SIGltl COIIIPANY
Sturd TrOSe
Mini Excavator
ice Hours ram-rpm weekdoys dateboocrdustotive.eorn ( 541)297-583 1
infotatallaroundgeeks.corrl
541 523 5327
Excavator,
LARGE OR SMALL
I Make Ho use C a lls, let me come to you
I
1609TenthBt. Baker City
Marcus Wolfer
B a k e r City, OR 97814
a
ewing:Aterations Mendin Zippers Custom Made C othing
icing La Grande, Cove, tmbter&Union
Blue Mountain Design
•
N
THE SEWING LADY
owing -N- More,
tt<>s
Embroidery by... ~tith
2906 Island Avenue La Grande, OR
•
•
O U T S T A N D I N G C O M PU T ER S E R V I C E S
24Hour Towing Saturday Service RentalCars
gI W >VQ ~< L ~rFE>R><S
1920 Courl Ave
541-786-5751 541-963-2161
L INc0 t
•
c
•
•
USEDBOOKS
2009 1stst.BakerCity 435-901-3290 Mon Kfues.)0:30-5• Wed-Sat.9:00-5 • ClosedSun
SALES CONSULTANT
Tammie Clausel LicensedClinical Social Worker
•
50 cents,51.00 It83.00Books KidsBooksBu yonebag85.00getsecondbag FREE!
PAU L SOWA RD
C3 OO
Child 84 Family Therapy
•
NewOwner,Barqain basement pricesagain!
•
• Roofing • Remodel-Interior/Exterior • Decks • Much More
207 Fir Street• La Grande • www.best2yourlife.com
TURN THEPAGE
• 0
Yi CPNSTRUCTIP)V LL S pecializing In:
•
~ I alili'S Auta IC I •
CLIFLINCONTRICTING,LLC
•
xecutive TreeCare,Inc.
((It202271
Camera ready orwe canse npforyon • TabS Contact • BrOadSheet The Observer
freeestimates,hazardousremovals,pruning&stumpgrinding
• Full Color
Brian Lt lackWalker,Arborist 541-432-8733
54$ 963 3161
I
I
„ . 541-605-0152
• 0
•
• 0
•
6B —THE OBSERVER a BAKER CITY HERALD
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
PUBLISHED BY THE LAGRANDE OBSERVER & THE BAKER CITY HERALD - SERVING WALLOWA, UNION & BAKER COUNTIES
DEADLINES : LINE ADS:
Monday: noon Friday Wednesday: noon Tuesday Friday: no o n Thursday DISPLAY ADS:
2 days prior to publication date
Baker City Herald: 541-523-3673e www.bakercityherald.com • classifiedsObakercityheraId.com• Fax: 541-523-6426' The Observer: 541-963-3161e www.la randeobserver.com • classifiedsOlagrandeobserver.com• Fax: 541-963-3674 xg w 220 - Help Wanted Union Co.
SottletIIing 4ll Ln ~grnnde5cti-003-3IOI or
times throughout the
to stalft a subsclfiption
o)f place an ad.
HE BSE RVER Szkrr Stg3~trsQ
be growing tired of the same old thing that LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) — You mayhave to keeps coming your way day after day. You stop what you aredoing and wait for others to have the power to shake things up a bit. complete their tasks before you cancontinue. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) — There's lit- You can fill the time well. tleyou can do for som eone who refuses to VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — It's a good take charge of his or her own situation. The day to communicate honestly with those who best thing to do is to steer clear. have been deceptive in the past. The walls ARIES (March 21-April 19) — You will m ay be coming down forgood. encounter an obstacle that may prove to be LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) - Now is the dangerous ifyou're notin the rightframe of time for you to ask a friend if he or she is mind to approach it properly. interested in upping the ante where your TAURUS (April 20-May 20) — Those who relationship is concerned. have beenwatching you lately may disappear SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) —Someone from view quite suddenly, but that doesn't not far from you is likely to attempt a new mean they're gone! kind of interaction with you. You may not GEMINI (May 21-June20) -- It shouldn't immediately know what to make of this! be too difficult to get what you want while SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) still giving someone what he or she has Excitement is in store ifyou are willing to let requested from you. someone elsecontrol things for a while. You'll CANCER (June 21-July 22) — You can enjoy something new. enjoy a new recreational outlet. Invite a new fEDIIQRS F dl n q u pl »« t n Ry P B« « C friend along, and youmaydiscover you have COPYRIGHT2tll5 UNITED FEATURESYNDICATE, INC AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) —You may even more in common. DISIRIBUIED BYUNIVERSALUCLICKFORUFS
WEDNESDAY,DECEMBER30, 20)5 YOUR BIRTHDAY byStella Wilder Born today, you will encounter many situations throughout your lifetime that allow you to tower over others, demonstrating remarkable skill and instinct, and receiving allmanner ofaccoladesand rewards.W hatis most remarkable, however, is that you will also, for all this, be able to maintain almost unheard-ofhumility, You retain the ability to lookin the mirrorevery day and seeyourself realistically, without embellishment or adornment, as a normal human being. You arenever one to lord itoverothers,norare you the kind to remain aloof because you don't deign to mix and mingle with those who seemlesssuccessfulthan you. THURSDAY,DECEMHER3) CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — You have more on your plate than you had anticipated, but ifyour ducks are in a row, you can surely accomplish everything you must.
Q t y M Oall0a Mtl25567l4
CROSSWORD PUZZLER ACROSS
38 Memorable
decade 39 Tagged along 40 Acorn dropper
1 Deflect a blow 6 Don — de la
Answer to Previous Puzzle L EE A RT S I R SK E
S MA G Y O HO S T O A T C HY E OS K A L A MO V O V I N S S E A EO N B I G SN A F U S F E S S U R OS E H I P S U RA L V E E B AY S E DS
41 Narrow inlet 42 Home tel.
Vega (Zorro) 11 Not at all lax
43 Md. neighbor 44 Zodiac dozen 46 Pesky bug 47 Kind of party 49 Eye cosmetics
12 Shady nooks 14 Oldtime
burglar's "key" 15 Pulsate 17 Old Faithful's st. 18 California fort
51 New branch 52 Letter ender
19 Motor lodge 20 — annum
DOWN
21 Round building 23 Mo. fractions 24 Sanskrit dialect
1 Where something might not play
25 Not working correctly
2 With a great
deal of zest 3 Wine category
27 Eric Clapton
e.g.
green light 10 Big Brother creator
6 Sews a toe
30 UFO pilot 33 Most
7 Rust
component
glamorous
11 Spill over
8 Flow back
37 Hawk in the
2
3
4
5
6
15
18
7
8
22
25
9
16
10
30
31
cousin
stain
24
33 Former QB — Tarkenton 34 Money maker 35 Slings mud at 36 Finals and
27 29
32
locale 16 Follow a trail 20 Pony up 22 Was the title
30 Asserts 31 Shoves off 32 Shirt-pocket
20
23
28
33
34
35
midterms
36
Prime-time
hour
39 40
41
43
44
47
48 51
• 0
Puerto-
B'way posting of yore
42 45 49
NG O L MO S P
27 Law, to Caesar 29 Kiwi's extinct
17
26
I D E A
creator
19
21
S L A P
23 Kind of humor 24 Take fright 26 Oddjob's
12 14
B R I E
holder
bleachers 1
A U E L
13 Damascus
9 Heedthe
5 Todate
I N T O I N U L T
12-30-15 © 2015 UFS, Dist. by Univ. Uclick for UFS
4 Union Pacific,
classic 28 Opposing vote 29 Chess pieces
P L F A UN E B L L J U A N RG I N G
46 50
45 46 48 50
Full of cunning
445- Lawns & Gar-
Veld grazer
Sigh of relief
A moon of Jupiter
You can enloy extra vacation money by exchangi ng idle i t em s i n y o u r
52
•
finish work day by ot hers? DisFast, Quality Work! c over the P ower o f Wade, 541-523-4947 Newspaper Advertisor 541-403-0483 • Delivers special publi- ing i n S I X S T A TES Attention: VIAGRA and CCB¹176389 c ations t h r ough o u t with Iust one p hone C I ALIS U S ER S! A Union an d W a l lowa call. For free Pacific cheaper alternative to Counties RUSSO'S YARD Northwest Newspaper high drugstore prices! 8E HOME DETAIL A ssociation N e t w o r k 50 Pill Special — $99 Aesthetically Done • Clean and paint news b roc h u r e s c a II FREE Shipping! 100 916-288-6011 or email stands Ornamental Tree Percent Guaranteed. (!t Shrub Pruning cecelia©cnpa.com CAL L NO W : • Assists circulation di541-855-3445 (PNDC) 1-800-729-1056 503-407-1524 r ector w i t h p r o m o (PNDC) tions, reports, records DID YOU ICNOW that Serving Baker City and complaints. & surrounding areas not only does newspaAVAILABLE AT p er m e dia r e ac h a THE OBSERVER • Makes outbound retenHUGE Audience, they NEWSPAPER tion calls t o c u r rent, a lso reach a n E N BUNDLES past and non-subscribGAGED AUDIENCE. Burning or packing? ers, including calls to Discover the Power of SCARLETT MARY LMT $1.00 each Newspaper Advertis3 massages/$100 subscribers in g r ace ing in six states — AIC, Ca II 541-523-4578 NEWSPRINT period, stopped subID, MT, OR, UT, WA. Baker City, OR scnbers. ROLL ENDS For a free rate broGift CertficateaAvailable! Art prolects (!t more! c hur e caII • Participates in circulaSuper for young artists! 916-288-6011 or email $2.00 8t up tion promotions, tracks 385 - Union Co. Sercecelia©cnpa.com results. Stop in today! (PNDC) vice Directory 1406 Fifth Street ANYTHING FOR • Performs other duties 330 - Business Op541-963-31 61 A BUCK as assigned. portunities Same owner for 21 yrs. CPAP/BIPAP SUPPLIES 541-910-6013 Qualifications: at little or no cost from CCB¹1 01 51 8 Allied Medical Supply Networki Fresh sup High school diploma or equivalent. R e l iable plies delivered right to N OTICE: O R E G O N your door. Insurance transportation a must. Landscape Contractors may cover all costs. Valid Oregon dnvers liLaw (ORS 671) reDELIVER IN THE 800-492-6449. (PNDC) cense, valid auto insurquires all businesses TOWN OF ance, and pre-employthat advertise and per- DIRECTV STARTING at BAKER CITY ment drug test. form landscape con$19.99/mo. FREE Intracting services be lis tallation. F REE 3 INDEPENDENT PhysicaI requirements: censed with the Landmonths of HBO CONTRACTORS s cape C o n t r a c t o r s SHOWTIME C I N ES ittin g a nd d riv i n g , wanted to deliver the B oard. T h i s 4 - d i g i t MAX, STARZ. F REE Baker City Herald w orking i n t h e e l e number allows a conHD/DVR U p g r a de ! m ents, s n ow , s u n , Monday, Wednesday, sumer to ensure that 2015 N F L S u n d ay and Fnday's, within wind (!t rain. In and out t he b u siness i s a c Ticket Included (Select Baker City. of a vehicle. tively licensed and has Packages) New CusCa II 541-523-3673 a bond insurance and a t omers O n ly. C A L L Must be able to lift up to q ualifie d i n d i v i d u a l 1-800-41 0-2572 75 pounds. INDEPENDENT contractor who has ful(PNDC) CONTRACTORS filled the testing and Send Resume to: wanted to deliver DISH NETWORK —Get experience r e q u irecthompson©lagrande MORE for LESS! StartThe Observer ments fo r l i censure. observer.com ing $19.99/month (for Monday, Wednesday, For your protection call and Fnday's, to the 1 2 m o nt hs). P L U S 503-967-6291 or visit 230 - Help Wanted Bundle (!t SAVE (FAst following area's our w ebs i t e : out of area Internet f or $15 www.lcb.state.or.us to + La Grande Community Counseling c heck t h e lic e n s e more/month). CA LL Now 1-800-308-1563 Solutions is a 501(c)(3) status before contractCa II 541-963-3161 (PNDC) c orporation s e r v i n g ing with the business. O regon i n Gil l i a m , or come fill out an Persons doing l and- DO YOU need papers to Information sheet Grant, Lake, Morrow, scape maintenance do start your fire with? Or Sherman, and Wheeler not require a landscapa re yo u m o v i n g ( ! t Counties. We are cur- INVESTIGATE BEFORE ing license. need papers to wrap rently recruiting for a YOU INVEST! Always those special items? D evelopmental D i s - a good policy, espeThe Baker City Herald abilities Quality Assurcially for business op- PARKER TREE Service at 1915 F i rst S t r eet Local (!t Established ance Coordinator. This p ortunities ( ! t f r a n sells tied bundles of Since 1937. All your is a full-time exempt chises. Call OR Dept. papers. Bundles, $1.00 tree needs including; position that will be reo f J u stice a t ( 5 0 3 ) each. t rimming, s t um p r e sponsible for develop378-4320 or the Fedmoval, and p r u ning. ing, an d m o n i t o ring eral Trade Commission BUSINESS has CCB¹ 172620. FREE EVERY quality assurance and at (877) FTC-HELP for a story t o t e l l ! G e t ESTIMATES! Contact improvement plans for f ree i nformation. O r your message out with Grant Parker the DD Program. This v isit our We b s it e a t California's P RMedia 541-975-3234 position will supervise www.ftc.gov/bizop. Release — the only t he p r o g ram' s D D Press Release Service Service Coordinators. 345 - Adult Care operated by the press G raduate d e gree i n Union Co. to get press! For more p sychology, s o c i a l info contact Cecelia © work, counseling, psy- A PLACE FOR MOM. 9 16-288-601 1 or The nation's l argest chiatric nursing and/or htt:// rmediarelease.c senior Iiving r e f erral related field preferred. om california PNDC s ervice. Contact o u r Bachelor's degree in trusted, local experts relevant field required. GOT KNE E Pain? Ba ck today! Our service is Pain? Shoulder Pain? This management poFREE/no o b l igation. 430- For Saleor Get a p a i n -relieving sition requires knowlCALL 1-800-940-2081. Trade edge of the p olicies, brace -little or NO cost (PNDC) to you. Medicare Paprocedures, and regu4 STUDDED Snow tires, tients Call Health Hotlations of developmenl ike n ew , o n r im s , tal disability programs. 350 - Day Care Baker l in e N ow ! 1P 215-75R15, $ 3 0 0 . 800-285-4609 (PNDC) Requires a m i n imum Co. CaI I e v e n i n g s of three years of expe- EXPERIENCED 23 YR 541-963-9144 HOME BREAK-INS take nence in a supervisory OLD. SEEKING CHILD l ess t ha n 6 0 S E C role, providing and/or CARE EMPLOYMENT O NDS. D o n' t w a i t ! 2701 coordinating quality asMonday — Friday. EiBearco Lp, LG, has Protect your f a mily, surance activities, utilit her y ou r h o m e o r used tire chains $15 your home, your aszation m a n a g ement Mine. Em ilie P rivett, sets NOW for as little ea, chest of drawers functions, developing 541-51 9-3446. a s 70? a d ay ! C a l l $ 20 t o $ 1 2 5 , a n d outcome m e a s ures, many other bargains. 888-673-0879 (PNDC) a nd im p l e m e n t i n g 380 - Baker County quality i m p rovement LIFE ALERT. 24/7. One Service Directory FOR SALE snow tires, s trategies in a t r e a tp ress o f a butto n like new on rims, off ment setting. Experi- CEDAR 8t CHAIN link s ends h e l p F A S T ! Chrysler. 2 3 565R17 ence and knowledge fences. New construcMedical, Fire, Burglar. $300. 541-963-2641 i n c o n t ract c o m p l i - t i o n, R e m o d e I s (!t Even if you can't reach ha ndyma n services. ance, program evaluaa phone! FREE Brotion, data analysis, and Kip Carter Construction WILD COUNTRY snow c hu r e . CA L L 541-519-5273 management of datat ires w it h s t ud s, 800-250-4607. (PNDC) baseshnformation sysGreat references. 31 x1 0. 50 R1 5LT. tems preferred. Any CCB¹ 60701 $300.00. 541-910-8866 SELL YOUR structured settlement or annuity equivalent c o m b i napayments fo r C A SH tion of education, ex435 - Fuel Supplies penence, and/or trainNOW. You don't have D S. H Roofing 5. ing may b e c o n s idto wait for your future payments any longer! ered. Annual salary is Construction, Inc PRICES REDUCED Call 1-800-914-0942 $57,300 — $87,100, CCB¹192854. New roofs $140 in the rounds 4" (!t reroofs. Shingles, DOEE. Excellent bene(PNDC) to 12" in DIA, $170 metal. All phases of fit package, including split. Fir $205 split. STOP OVERPAYING for construction. Pole 401IC. Apply o n line Delivered in the valyour p r e s c riptions! and upload resume at buildings a specialty. ley. (541)786-0407 Save up to 93%i Call Respond within 24 hrs. communit counselin541-524-9594 our licensed Canadian t . . P t 440 - Household and International pharopen until filled. EEO. macy service to comItems FRANCES ANNE p are prices and g e t YAGGIE INTERIOR 8E MUST SELLHot spnngs $15.00 off your f irst EXTERIOR PAINTING, 5 person hot tub New prescnption and FREE Commercial (!t $7700 will sell for Shipping. Residential. Neat (!t $6600. for Medical 1-800-354-4184 efficient. CCB¹137675. reasons 541-523-1581 541-524-0359 (PNDC)
LOC)K
by Stella Wilder
lllOWd tSt K »
450 - Miscellaneous
• Delivers down routes to subscnbers homes
BakeFCitg saf-5z3-3673
t)te classifiedsItre the placeto be.
380 - Baker County Service Directory
DID YOU ICNOW 7 IN 10 OREGON STATE law reRECYCLING Americans or 158 milq uires a nyone w h o %METAL We buy all scrap lion U.S. Adults read contracts for construcmetals, vehicles content from newspat ion w o r k t o be (!t battenes. Site clean censed with the Conper media each week? Circulation ups (!t drop off bins of Discover the Power of struction Contractors Assistant-PT all sizes. Pick up the Pacific Northwest Board. An a c t ive service available. Newspaper Advertiscense means the conMonday, Wednesday, WE HAVE MOVED! i ng. For a f r e e b r o - tractor is bonded (!t inFnday 1pm to 6pmOur new location is c hur e caII sured. Venfy the conCirculation 3370 17tI1 St 916-288-6011 or email tractor's CCB license Sam Haines cecelia©cnpa.com through the CCB ConGeneral description of Enterpnses (PNDC) s ume r W eb s i t e duties: 541-51 9-8600 www.hirealicensedcontractor.com. DID YOU ICNOW NewsCirculation Duties: ARE YOU in BIG trouble paper-generated conw ith th e I R S ? S t o p • Delivers bundles to intent is so valuable it's wage (!t bank levies, POE CARPENTRY dependent contractors taken and r e peated, liens (!t audits, unfiled • New Homes homes condensed, broadcast, tax returns, payroll istweeted, d i scussed, • Remodeling/Additions sues, (!t resolve t ax • Collects money from posted, copied, edited, • Shops, Garages debt F A S T . Ca I I the news stands and emailed countless • Siding (!t Decks 844-229-3096(PNDC) • Windows (!t F ine
for
' BuIting l'" Selling,
320 - Business Investments
R E l '
home for cash ... with an ad in classified.
• 0
•
JACKET 8t Coverall ReVIAGRA 100mg, CIALIS pair. Zippers replaced, dens p atching an d o t h e r LOTS OF leaf cleanup? 20mg. 50 tabs $90 includes FREE SHIPheavy d ut y r e p a irs. W alker Mowers w i l l do the Iob. Call for a Reasonable rates, fast PING. 1-888-836-0780 service. 541-523-4087 free demo. Inland Ag or M e t r o - M e ds.net or 541-805-9576 BIC Repair 541-963-4985. (PNDC)
• 0
•
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
THE OBSERVER a BAKER CITY HERALD —7B
PUBLISHED BY THE LAGRANDE OBSERVER & THE BAKER CITY HERALD - SERVING WALLOWA, UNION & BAKER COUNTIES
DEADLINES : LINE ADS:
Monday: noon Friday Wednesday: noon Tuesday Friday: no o n Thursday DISPLAY ADS:
2 days prior to publication date
R E l
Baker City Herald: 541-523-3673e www.bakercityheraId.com• classifiedsObakercityheraId.com• Fax: 541-523-6426' The Observer: 541-963-3161e www. la randeobserver.com • classifiedsOlagrandeobserver.com• Fax: 541-963-3674 xg w 505 - Free to a good home
450 - Miscellaneous
720 - Apartment Rentals Baker Co.
720 - Apartment Rentals Baker Co.
725 - Apartment Rentals Union Co. UNION COUNTY
S TRUGGLING W I T H DRUGS or ALCOHOL? Addicted t o P I L LS? Talk to someone who cares. Call The Addic-
'
752 - Houses for Rent Union Co.
780 - Storage Units
Beautiful ground floor The Elms Apartments CATHERINE CREEK 1-Bdrm Apartment 2920 Elm Street Senior Living PROPERTY MGMT w/private e n t r a nce. Baker City, OR 97814 La Grande, OR ~ STOK A O E Custom kitchen. LaunMallard Heights 541-605-0430 dry on site. W/S/G I!t 870 N 15th Ave * 8ecutre www cathennecreek m com •• Keyyadl I!In~ tion Hope I!t Help Line Free to good home lawn care p r ovided. Elgin, OR 97827 A~ ridia ute-Loc)r. G@e for a free assessment. Tenant pays electric. ads are FREE! DRC'S PROPERTY 710 - Rooms for • 8eemi1Z Liirbttnlf 855-978-9402 Close to park I!t downNow accepting applica- MANAGEMENT, INC. (4 lines for 3 days) • B e~ C art n e trlt Rent t own. Se e a t 2 1 3 4 Currently accepting applitions f o r fed e r a l ly 215 Fir Str • Outside RV 8totaga G rove St. $ 5 0 0/mo cations. 2 bdrm apartf unded h o using f o r • Fetttteed Attea NOTICE La Grande OR (8-fbot, hv'tt) All real estate advertised plus de p. No ment w/F R IG, DW, t hos e t hat a re NORTHEAST h ere-in is s u blect t o STV, onsite laundry, sixty-two years of age pets/smoking. AvailHouses: 550 - Pets RRti' olean tutttitta OREGON CLASSIFIEDS a ble J anuary 1 5 t h . playground. I n c o me or older, and h andi- 4 bd, 21/5 ba, on south the Federal Fair HousAII atzes avatIattIe reserves the nght to 541-519-576 2 or and occupancy guidecapped or disabled of ing Act, which makes side $1,200 (exlQ tut)P to l4xR5) 541-51 9-5852 lines apply, Section 8 any age. 1 and 2 bedrelect ads that do not it illegal to a dvertise 3 bd, 2 ba, close to 54X-585-1688 accepted. Rent is $455 comply with state and any preference, limitaroom units w it h r e nt college $850 ELKHORN VILLAGE federal regulations or to $490, tenant pays b ased o n i nco m e 851I X4 C IL 3 bd, 1 ba, close to tions or discnmination APARTMENTS that are offensive, false, when available. based on race, color, Senior a n d Di s a b l ed electnc. No smoking, Rivena $695 Use ATTENTION misleading, deceptive or religion, sex, handicap, except in d esignated GETTERSto help CLASSIC STORAGE Housing. A c c e pt ing otherwise unacceptable. smoking area and no f amilial status or n aProlect phone ¹: All Units are your ad stand out 541-524-1534 applications for those p ets. A ppl i c a t i o n s 541-437-0452 Non Smoking like this!! tional origin, or intenaged 62 years or older 2805 L Street a vailable onsite o u t TTY: 1(800)735-2900 tion to make any such Call a classified rep as well as those disNEW FACILITY!! side of manager's ofNEWER HOME central p references, l i m i t aTODAY to a s k how! abled or handicapped XARELTO USERS have fice located at Apt. 1. air, 3 bd, 2 ba, storage, Vanety of Sizes Available "This Instituteis an Baker City Herald tions or discrimination. of any age. Income reyou had complications O ff i c e Ph. fenced yard, single ga- Secunty Access Entry equal opportunity 541-523-3673 We will not knowingly strictions apply. Call RV Storage due to internal bleed541-523-5908; E ma il: ra ge. Ava il Ja n. 1 st. provider" accept any advertising ask for Julie Candi: 541-523-6578 theelms©vindianmgt.comi ng ( a f t e r J a n u a ry LaGrande Observer $1295/mo + $600 dep. for real estate which is website: 2012)? If so, you MAY Ca II 541-61 9-6464. 541-963-3161 in violation of this law. vindianmgt.com/propbe due financial comask for Erica All persons are hereby REMODELED 2 bdrm, 2 ert ies/e lm s-a pa rtpensation. If you don't informed that all dwellments. bath, mobile, garage, h ave a n atto r n e y , FREE RENT! 3-bdrm apt. i ngs a d vertised a r e well I!t septic, no pets CALL Inluryfone toavailable on an equal includes most utilities day! 1-800-594-2107 $650/mo, $700 dep. in trade for caretaker opportunity basis. 740 - Duplex Rentals Ca II 541-962-5523. (PNDC) EQUAL HOUSING (includes light mainteBaker Co. OPPORTUNITY nance.) 20 hours per SINGLE WIDE trailer 2 w eek. Must b e m a NEWLY PAINTED, bd, 1 ba, fenced yard, 801 - Wanted to Buy ture, r e t ired c o u p le 725 - Apartment quiet, 2-bdrm, 1 bath 475 - Wanted to Buy w/d hook-ups, small duplex w/carport on preferred. Call Dennis Rentals Union Co. s hed, $550/mo, n o SENIOR CITIZEN needto apply. 541-519-5889 AVAIL NOW. 1 bdrm, 1 nver; kitchen, laundry ANTLER DEALER. Buypets, no smoking. For ing: 1975 or newer sinappliances; W/S/G and ing grades of antlers. ba. $550/mo. W/d, waa ppli c a t i o n ca ll FURNISHED STUDIO g le w i d e , m obi l e yard maintenance F air h o n es t p r i c e s . 720 - Apartment ter included. Dep. req. 214-392-5855. 8E 2-BDRM APTS. h ome, f re e o r e x included. No pets, no From a liscense buyer No smoking or pets. Utilites paid, includes Rentals Baker Co. tremely r e asonable, smoking. References 760 - Commercial using st at e c e r t i f ied (541 ) 963-0984 internet/cable. Starting at decent condition, will 1-BDRM, 1 bath, required. $520/mo + dep Rentals skills. Call Nathan at 630 - Feeds $600/mo. 541-388-8382 move, 541-786-3353. Laundry on site. Ca II 541-523-0527 — Days 541-786-4982. 2428 MADISON St. 150 TON 1st crop Tenant Pays Electnc. No CENTURY 21 or 541-524-9980 — Nights 825 - Houses for Baker City.Commercial Alfalfa-alfalfa grass. PROPERTY smoking/pets.$490/mo Classified are worth building (previously a 3x4 bales. No rain, test. MANAGEMENT 745 Duplex Rentals Sale Union Co. 541-51 9-6654 l ooking into w h e n church) Great for clubs, 125 TON 2nd crop Union Co. you're looking for a La randeRentals.com bible studies, ect. Alfalfa -alfalfa grass 1 BDRM, 1 ba, w/d hook$600/mo. No deposit 30 TON 3rd Crop 2533 10TH St. 1-bdrm p lace t o l i v e w he t h e r it ' s a ups, $425/mo + $425 with one year lease. Sm. bales.(100 lb. avg.) apartment. All utilities (541)963-1210 dep. No pets/smoking. h ome, a n a p a r t 541-523-9057 No reasonable offer paid including internet (541 ) 963-4907 will be refused. $550/mo plus $550 dep. ment or a m o b i le CIMMARON MANOR BEARCO BUSINESS 541-51 9-0693 541-523-9057 home. ICtngsvtew Apts. 2 BDRM 1 Ba Duplex, Park, 1,600 sq. ft. 2 2 bd, 1 ba. Call Century Single Ca r G a rage, Office's, 12x11 1/2 roll 21, Eagle Cap Realty. Clean, $700/mo lease, up door, restrooms, FOR SALEnewly remod541-963-1210 541-963-7711. LG. L a Grande, Val l e y by Stella Wilder eled 3 bd 2 ba, double Realty 541-963-4174. w ide, ne w p a r k o f FOR LEASE or Sale: THURSDAY, DECEMBER3), 20)5 than willing to do what is necessary. spectacle isn't you! S undowner M o b i l e 60'x120' w a rehouse CLOSE TO EOU 2bdrm Park Sp. 94, price reYOUR BIRTHDAY byStella Wilder AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) - You may LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) —Wait for somew/ office, avail. early basement a p t . , a ll CUTE LITTLE place. 1 Born today,you are a rather deceptive be quite eager to identify a new goal or two, one else to lead the way, and you should be utilities paid, coin-op bdrm, large fenced J an. 2 0 16 , 6 0 ' x 9 0' d uced $ 5 , 000, w i l l some contract. back yard, gas utilindividual. Deep down, you harbor much but you're not sure where to look at first. able to keepyourselfsafe. Protection from the laundry, No smoking, p ad, l o ading d o c k , carry 541-910-3513. 2-16' rollup doors, 20' No pets. $ 5 50/mo, tites, new hotwater that can cause you trouble in life, yet you Followanother' s lead fornow. elements is important. c eiling, n a t ural g a s , p lus $ 5 0 0 d e p o s it hearter, furnance, I!t appear to be quite jovial, even carefree, to the PISCES (Feb. I9-March 20) — Any cele- VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — You may 832,000 BUILDING 541-91 0-3696 carpet, quiet neigh440 power, located on casualobserver.There are,indeed,at least bration that's in store mayhave to take a back have to glance at the clock again and again to LOT IN NEWER SUBborhood, w/s pd, no 6 acres, heavy industwo distinct sides to yourpersonality — tothe seat to a family issue that will not be put off be sure that you are not using up too much t rial zoned land 1 / 4 DIVISION, will accept dogs, $365 mo, plus extent that some may mistake you for a any longer. time on any one endeavor. DRC'S PROPERTY dep. Avail. now. 605 mi., outside Island city, MlH or stick built MANAGEMENT, INC. Crook, L a G r a nde Info. caII 541-910-8744 Gemini native. Indeed, you may actually ARIES (March 21-Apru i9) — A loved LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) - You're eager homes. Paved streets, 215 Fir Str (541) 962-6057. side walks and curbs. think at times that you actually should have one may hit you with a request that takesyou to show otherswhatyou'recapable ofaccomSHOP 8t OFFICE Space La Grande OR 12262075 been born under that sign, or that you really very much by surprise. Is this anyway to start plishing. Ifyou get the chance,you mayactuNEWER 3 b drm, 2 ba, w/s pd. $395/mo plus Century 21 were, despite all evidence to the contrary! the yeart Yes, it is! ally impressyourself in the process. $ 30 0 d e p o s it $1,100/mo, plus dep. APARTMENTS Eagle Cap Realty, The light and the dark are continually fight- TAURUS (Apr!I 20-May 20) - How you SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) - You are 541-91 0-3696 Some e x t r a s . No Studio $350 to $400 541-9634511. ing for control of your personality and begin the day will set an example for others, being drawn to the edge,and you're tempted smoking. Pets on ap1bd, $385 to $395, p rova I. Mt . Em i l y 780 - Storage Units 2bd, $440 to $585 psyche, and this battle canonly bewon when and you will want to put your best foot for- to goas far as possible — butsomeone who NICE REMODELED Prope rt y M gt . you ultimately make a conscious decision to ward when it's time to meet afamily member. knows you well is calling you back. 541-962-1074 All Units are favoronesideortheotherand takeappropri- GEMINI (May 21-June20) -- You mustn't SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) —You Non Smoking ate steps. let any feelings of inferiority keep you from may think a certain endeavor is a sure thing, NEWER D U PLEX for FRIDAY, JANUARY 1 doing what you know is right. You can bejust but in fact it's more of a crapshoot - and the r ent. 3bd, 2 ba, g a s • MlttI-II)ttreitottae fireplace, A/C, large HAPPY NEWYEAR! as influential as anyoneelse. odds do not favor you. Welcome Home! • Gtttslde IFamtttI IPatMttg fenced yard and more! CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. I9) - If you CANCER (June21-July 22) —Youmay be • Rgttttattiitls Attfstt rEDIIQRr F dl a q u pl » « t n ry P B« «C $925mo 541-910-5059 Ca!I needsomeone to tend toyourspecific needs, able to enjoy something of a spectacle before
NON!
•
•
•
you know whom to ask. He or she is more the day is out, but you'll want to be sure the
CQPYRIGHT 2tllr UNITED FEATURE SYNDICATE,INC
Fttr liiAtritttIIIott cttII:
(541) 963-7476
DrrIRIBrrIED BYUNIVERSAL UCLICK FQRUrr llloet t a K » c t y MQrne er25567lr
GREEN TREE APARTMENTS 2310 East Q Avenue La Grande,OR 97850
CROSSWORD PUZZLER ACROSS
38 April 15 org. 39 Bask in the 40 Hut
PA SEV LO I ORD S I L HAY
43 Money pools
5 Hold one's own 9 Classified wd. 12 Quartet minus
47 Offensive
player 49 Freight hopper
one
50 Best medicine 51 World's
13 Waikiki locale 14 Give -
break
longest river 52 007's alma mater 53 Lb. or oz.
15 Cousin's mother 16 Unkind remark
18 Seesaws
54 Open spaces
20 Gawks 21 "The Loco-
55 A throng
AL I VEN OAK WV SEA SH
DOWN
Motion" girl 22 Finish first
1 Pronto
23 Reprimand 26 Potato peelers, e.g.
2 Undeniable
joke 31 Free of 32 Mining hazard 33 Gunning the engine
plants 5 Hooded snake 6 Bireme movers 7 Honor-society letter
8 Geometry pioneer
1
2
3
4
5
12
6
7
19 Festive night 22 Gob of
11 Trims a doily
bubblegum 23 Paramedic's
16
9
24
10
11
26
30
27
28
29
31
33
34
36
29 NNW opposite 31 ER staffers 34 Bad habit
35 Annoying 36 Brewery tank
40 Tijuana Ms. 41 Mr. Sulu's 40
41
42
43
44
45
46
place 42 S8L deposit
43 Leafy algae 48
47
50
51
53
54
49 52
44 Modicum 45 Black, to Donne 46 Walkman brand
•
LARGE BASEMENT studio, in pnvate home. I Cttchenette, p r i v at e
• 0
t Llghttw( Iaryttttrprofec(!ott t 6 dif(trtettt Size ttttila e LOISOfRV SIOrage
41298Chictt IRd,Baker City
NEWLY REMODELED T riplex, 3 b r d m , 2 bath, all utilities pd,
has storage units availab!e.
5x12 $30 per mo. 8x8 $25-$35 per mo. 8x10 $30 per mo. 'plus deposit' 1433 Madison Ave., or 402 Elm St. La Grande. Ca II 541-910-3696
855 - Lots & Property Union Co. BEAUTIFUL VIEW lot in Cove, Oregon. Build y our d r ea m h o m e . Septic approved, electnc within feet, stream r unning through l o t . A mazing v i e w s of mountains I!t v alley. 3.02 acres, $62,000 208-761-4843
SAt'-T-STOR
pets, $650/mo, dep. $400, 705 B St. LG, 541-568-4567
no smoking, no pets, 2 BD, 1 b a, w/d i n cl., $1,000 month, $900 f enced b a c k y a r d , deposit. 541-910-3696 d ogs okay, n o c a t s $800mo 541-910-4938 0
rent, l o c ated down- 2BDRM, 1BA. New gat own, w a l k in g d i s rage, Very clean, 1yr tance to l o cal b usilease. $800/mo. nesses, nice and spa 2504 N Depot St. LG c ious, u t i l i t ie s i n c l . 541-963-751 7 509-592-81 79.
•
A PLUS RENTALS
1994 MARLETTE, 14x70 2bd, 2ba, appliances included, located in La G ra nde 541-534-4835
ROSE RIDGE 2 Subdtvtsion, Cove, OR. City: Sewer/VVater available. Regular price: 1 acre American West m/I $69,900-$74,900. Storage 7 days/24 houraccess We also provide property management. C h eck Nelson Real Estate 541-523-4564 out our rental link on Has Rentals Available! COMPETITIVE RATES our w ebs i t e 541-523-6485 Behind Armory on East www.ranchnhome.co and H Streets. Baker City Qr m or c aII Ranch-N-Home Realty, SUNFIRE REAL Estate In c 541-963-5450. LLC. has Houses, DuSECURESTORAGE plexes I!t Apartments I I for rent. Call Cheryl Surveillance Guzman fo r l i s t ings, Cameras 541-523-7727. Computenzed Entry Covered Storage 752 - Houses for Super size 16'x50'
T V. No s m o k ing o r pets. $450 1st., last, + Rent Union Co. dep. 541-962-2953 for 2 BD, 1 ba, dw, fridge, application. range, gas heat, det ached g a r age, n o
www.La rande Rentals.com
48 Through
• 0
opportunity provider."
line, All utilities incl., plus internet I!t Direct
music? 39 Loses steam
37
4-BDRM, 2 bath house Apartments w/full basement. Small pasture, garden area. 800 N 15th Ave 5 mi. south of Baker Elgin, OR 97827 City. $900/mo. For details call 541-519-5202, Now accepting applicaevenings. tions f o r fed e r a l ly funded housing. 1, 2, HOME SWEET HOME Clean I!t Cozy and 3 bedroom units 1704 East • $600/mo with rent based on in2-bdrm, 1 bath come when available. 2528 VaIIey •$650/mo 2-bdrm, 1.5 bath Prolect phone number: 541-437-0452 1550 6th • $600/mo 2 + bdrm, 1 bath TTY: 1(800)735-2900 No smoking/Sm pet neg "This institute is an equal Ed Moses:(541)519-1814
3 bedroom, 2 bath home with 24x20 garage. On c orner lot i n U n i o n , natural gas f u rnace, approximately 1 , 300 sq. ft., open floor plan, with fenced yard and covered decks, $118,000. Call 541-786-3303 or 541-786-0331.
845 -Mobile Homes Union Co.
HIGHLAND VIEW
28 Letter after
37 Country
35
2625 MADISON. 2-bdrm one bath w/RV parking, garbag paid. $525/mo + $525 dep. 541-523-9057
e ntry, close to E O U and shopping. On bus-
sigma
22
378510th Rreet
PRIME LOCATION, 2 master bdrms, 1/2 ba, h eated garage, w / d Affordasble Studios, hookups, w/s included. 1 I!t 2 bedrooms. Between EOU I!t hos(Income Restnctions Apply) pital. $850/mo + $900 Professionally Managed dep. 5 4 1 -805-9181 by: GSL Properties t Stctittly !Ranced Located Behind 750 - Houses For e CtxtttdEtttty La Grande Town Center Rent Baker Co.
27 It may be
hard-boiled
20
25
skill 24 Color 25 Stock on hand 26 Band's
booking
17
21 23
8
14
19
E S T A M E RES N A T E R S R S
9 Pulpit 10 Summit
13
15
GO O R S W Y P E R A L I Y L A
17 Large movie ape
36 Fuzzy
$9 4 N I e ye!II!IgS
I
1 2-31-1 5 © 2015 UFS, Dist. by Univ. Uclick for UFS
3 A, to Helmut 4 Like some
30 Knock-knock
RR Y D I E ER E A R B D T H RO B NN 0 W K S P W I R E L A N AY M E N EN F O X I D E RA C R I A S I GN S G RC H L I N OO T Y O U
5V4M I Iay9
9I
Answer to Previous Puzzle
sun
1 Dance movement
NICE DUPLEX, 3b/1.5b, s ingle garage, W / D H ookup, W/ S p a i d . $ 725/ m o Ca II 541-605-0430
ACCEPTING APPLICA TIONS 3 bd , 2 b a $ 995 + $ 5 0 0 d e p 541-91 0-4444
541-523-2128 3100 15th St. Baker City
•
•
•
•
•
Vis I I
I
for our most curr ent offers and to browse our complete inventory.
MOtOrCo. M.J.GOSS 1415 Adams Ave • 541-963-4161
• 0
•
SB —THE OBSERVER a BAKER CITY HERALD
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
PUBLISHED BY THE LAGRANDE OBSERVER & THE BAKER CITY HERALD - SERVING WALLOWA, UNION & BAKER COUNTIES
DEADLINES : LINE ADS:
Monday: noon Friday Wednesday: noon Tuesday Friday: no o n Thursday DISPLAY ADS:
2 days prior to publication date
R E l
Baker City HeraId: 541-523-3673e www.bakercityheraId.com • classifieds@bakercityheraId.com• Fax: 541-523-6426' The Observer: 541-963-3161e www.la randeobserver.com • classifieds@lagrandeobserver.com • Fax: 541-963-3674 xg w 1001 - Baker County Legal Notices
915 - Boats & Motors 970 - Autos For Sale
ten complaint, a copy o f w h ic h w a s f i l e d with the above-entitled Court. You must "appear" in this case or the other
59 CHEVY Impala, cus- 1001 - Baker County tom 2 door with rebuilt tranny and turbo 350 motor. New front disc
Legal Notices IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE STATE OF OREGON
brakes and new front 1985 B E A CHCRAFT and back seats. Runs Magnum 192 Cuddy, great! Must hear it to IN AND FOR THE 200 hp, Coast Guard appreciate. Ready for COUNTY OF BAKER radio, de pt h f i n d e r, body and paint. Asking s wim/ski p l a t f o r m , $6,500 OBO. F EDERAL NATIONAL very good c o ndition, 541-963-9226 MORTGAGE ASSOcanopy, boat c over, ("FNMA"), its and e-z trailer included. DONATE YOUR CAR, CIATION successors in interest $5,500 firm TRUCIC OR BOAT TO and/or assigns, 541-663-6403 HE R ITAG E FOR THE BLIND. Free 3 Day Va- Plaintiff, cation, Tax Deductible,
930 - Recreational Vehicles THE SALE of RVs not beanng an Oregon insignia of compliance is illegal: call B u i lding
Free Towing, All Paperwork Taken Care Of. CAL L 1-800-401-4106
(PNDC)
Codes (503) 373-1257. GOT AN older car, boat or RV? Do the humane
2000 NEW VISION ULTRA 5TH WHEEL l4
a
thing. Donate it to the Humane Society. Call
1-800-205-0599
(PNDC)
980 - Trucks, Pickups
$16,000 Fully loaded! • 35 foot • 3 Slide Outs
• W/D Combo • Kitchen Island • 4-dr Fridge/Freezer For more info. call:
(541) 519-0026
2011 FORD F-150 V-6, 4-wd, 8' bed, standard cab, towing package,42k/miles. Ver oo d condition!
$19,600 541-523-2505
it's not 2O11 BACKPACK TRAILER
Q~'s fault
by TheShelterPetPro]ect.org
• Hardshelled • Excellent condition
• Very clean • Good storage INot used since June 2013 due to stroke )
$4,000.00 541-523-0805
970 - Autos For Sale
RIP
2000 CHEVY BLAZER w/ snow tires on nms and snow chains. New stereo system, hands free calling & xm radio capability. 2nd owner. Have all repair history. Good condition! $4000/OBO 541-403-4255
1 RH ~
must f i l e w i t h t he court a legal document called a "motion" or
"answer." T h e " m otion" or "answer" (or "reply") must be given to the court clerk or administrator within 30
d ays of th e d ate o f first publication specified herein along with the required filing fee. It must be i n p roper
i n its complaint. T h i s is a Iudicial foreclosure Plaintiff,
of a deed of t rust in which the plaintiff re- V. quests that the plaintiff be allowed to fore- ANY SUCCESSOR close your interest in TRUSTEE FOR THE t he f o l l o w i n g de-
DEFINED BENEFIT scnbed real property: PLAN FOR WALT THE WEST HALF OF REUBER AND ALSO LOT 4 AND ALL OF ALL OTHER PERSONS LOTS 5 A N D 6, OR PARTIES BLOCIC 23, HUNTING- UNKNOWN CLAIMING TON TOWNSITE, AC- ANY RIGHT, TITLE, CORDING TO THE OF- LIEN, OR INTEREST IN F IC IAL P LA T THE PROPERTY T HEREOF, IN T H E DESCRIBED IN THE CITY OF HUNTING- COMPLAINT, T ON, COUNTY O F BAICER AND STATE Defendants, OF OREGON. Case No. 15-800 Commonly known as: 280 West Adams Street, SUMMONS Huntington, Oregon
1001 - Baker County 1010 - Union Co. 1010 - Union Co. 1010 - Union Co. Legal Notices Legal Notices Legal Notices Legal Notices OF FIRST PUBLICAIN THE CIRCUIT OF NOTICE TO AND/OR UNDER THE TION S P E C I FIED THE STATE OF INTERESTED PERSONS PUBLIC HEREIN ALONG WITH OREGON FOR THE RIG HT-0F-WAYS THE REQUIRED FILCOUNTY OF UNION Marilyn J. Ricker has WITHIN THE CITY OF ING FEE. IT MUST BE been appointed PerLA GRANDE IN PROPER FORM In the Matter of the Essonal Representative AND HAVE P ROOF tate of TATUM MARIE (hereafter PR) of the If adopted, t hi s O r d in ance w il l g r ant t o OF SERVICE ON THE HULL, Estate of Jonel Keith PETITIONER OR HIS Deceased. Ricker, deceased, ProFrontier CommunicaATTORNEY TO SHOW bate No. 15-12-8572, t ions t h e r i g h t a n d THAT THE O T HER No. 15-11-8571 Union County Circuit privilege to operate a S IDE H A S BE E N C ourt, State of O r e - telephone and related GIVEN A COPY OF IT. NOTICE TO communications sysg on. A l l pers o n s IF YOU HAVE QUES- INTERESTED PERSONS whose rights may be tem within the City's TIONS, YOU SHOULD affected by th e p roi ncorporated l i m i t s , SEE AN ATTORNEY NOTICE IS H E REBY c eeding ma y o b t a i n sublect to th e t e rms a nd conditions c o n I MMEDIATELY! I F GIVEN that the under- additional information Y OU N EE D H E L P signed has been apf rom t h e c o u r t r e - t ained i n t h i s O r d i FINDING AN ATTOR- pointed personal repcords, the PR, or the nance. NEY, YOU MAY CALL r esentative. Al l p e r - attorney for the PR. All A ll Sessions of th e L a THE OREGON STATE sons having c l a ims persons having claims BAR LAWYER REFER- against the estate are a gainst t h e est a t e Grande City C o uncil RAL SERVICE AT (503) required t o p r e s e nt must present them to are accessible to per6864-3763 OR TOLL FREE IN OREGON AT (800) 452-7636.
them, with v o uchers attached, to the undersigned personal representative at the office of Monahan, Grove & Tucker, 105 N. Main, Milton-Freewater, OR 97862 (attorneys for the personal represen-
Attorneys for Petitioner
the PR at: Steven J. Joseph, Attorney for PR STEVEN J.JOSEPH, PC P.O. Box 3230 901 Washington Ave. La Grande, OR 97850 (541) 963-4901 within four months after t ative), w i t h i n f o u r the date of first publimonths after the date cation of this notice or of first publication of they may be barred.
Suite 5
c la im s may be ba rred.
MERRILL O'SULLIVAN, LLP /s/ WILLIAM A. VAN VACTOR, OSB ¹075595 Mernll O'Sullivan, LLP 805 SW IndustnaI Way
t his n o t i ce , o r t h e
Bend, OR 97702 Phone: 541-389-1770 Fax: 541-389-1777
A ll p e rsons w h o s e nghts may be affected by th e p r o c eedings may obtain additional i nformation from t h e records of the court, the personal representative, or the attorneys for the personal repre-
will@mernll-osullivan.com
LegaI No. 00043941 Published: December 23, 30, 2015, January 6, 16, 2016
1010 - Union Co. Legal Notices LIEN FORECLOSURE SALE
sentative.
Dated and first published December 16, 2015
Published: December 16, 23,30, 2015 LegaI No. 00043888
CITY OF LA GRANDE
sons with disabilities,
and specialaccommodations will be made for those w it h v i sual and/or heanng impairments. P l e ase c a II 5 41-962-1309, to r e quest an interpreter or to arrange special accommodations. Should you have quest ions i n
co n n e c t i o n
with this proposed Ordinance or desire addit ional
in f o r m a t i o n ,
please contact City Rec orde r A ng e l i k a B roo k s at 541-962-1309.
NOTICE of ORDINANCE Agelika Brooks Clty Recorder CONSIDERATION Pursuant to Section 34. Published: December 30, 2015 of the City Charter of the City of La Grande,
Oregon, the following Legal No.00044032 entitled Ordinance is scheduled to be read
for the first time by tipursuant to ORS 87689 /s/ Dakota Hull Personal Representative t le only, d u ring t h e @ OPS 87 691 Council's Regular Ses/I' I H sion on W e dnesday, N otice i s h e rb y g i v e n /~ January 6, 2016, in the that the following de- Personal Representative Council Chambers of scribed property perCity Hall, 1000 Adams sonal/household items SUBMITTED BY: Avenue, La G rande, will be sold at A Plus Sam Tucker, Oregon. This Session Rentals LLC, at 1433 OSB¹ 763644 will begin at 6:00 p.m. M adison S t reet , L a MONAHAN, GROVE & TUCICER Grande OR 97850 on AN O RD INA N C E J anuary 2, 2 0 1 6 a t Attorneys at Law GRANTING FRONTIER 10:00 am t o s a t i sfy 105 N. Main St. Milton-Freewater, COMMUNICATIONS liens claimed by A Plus OR 97862 NO RTHWEST I N C., A Rentals LLC. phone 541-938-3377 WASHINGTON CORfax 541-938-6112 PORATION, THE P roperty Ow ner: M i k e sam©mgtlegal.com RIGHT, PRIVILEGE, Sain AND FRANCHISE TO U nit M 16 le in f or Published: December 16, OPERATE A T ELE$390.00 23,and 30, 2015 P HONE AN D R E LATED COMMUNICAPublish: December 23, Leqal No. 00043885 TIONS SYSTEM IN, 28,30, 2015 UPON, A C R O S S, A BOVE , OV E R , LegaI No. 00043949 Classifieds get results.
C8
CO p CI
Qo
97907. TO: ANY SUCCESSOR NOTICE TO TRUSTEE FOR THE DEFENDANTS: DEFINED BENEFIT READ THESE P LAN FO R W A L T PAPERS CAREFULLY! REUBER AND ALSO A lawsuit ha s b e e n ALL O T HER P E Rstarted against you in SONS OR PARTIES t he a b o v e - e n t i t l e d UNICNOWN CLAIMcourt by Federal NaING ANY RIGHT, TItional Mortgage AssoTLE, LIEN, OR INTERciation ("FNMA"), plainEST IN THE PROPtiff. P l aintiff's claims ERTY DESCRIBED IN are stated in the wntTHE COMPLAINT
1. U n i q u e s e l l i n g p o i n t s . T o d e t e r m i n e t he u n i q u e n e s s o f a p r o d u c t o r s e r v ice, t h i n k l i k e t h e p e o p l e w h o y o u w ant t o r e s p o n d t o y o u r a d . 2. C o m p l e t e w o r d s . L i m i t a b b r e v i a t ions. t h e y c a n c o n f u s e t h e r e a d e r or ob s t r u c t c o m m u n ication. If you decide to use some abbreviations, avoid unusual ones. 3. Mind I m ages. Appeal to the readers senses, such as sight, touch or emotions. 4. Always include the price. If you are flexible, include best offer or negotiable. 5. If brand names are involved, always use them. Brand names covey a sense of quality, dependability and appropriateness. 6. Give your ad a chance to work.The potential customer pool for your product, merchandise, or service is not static. Different readers and potential customers read the newspaper each day. It is important for you to "throw out an advertising net" to catch as many customers as possible. Remember, higher priced items normally need more days exposure to sell. 7. Be sure to include a phone number where you can be reached. If you need assistance, ask one of our friendly classifieds sales reps to help you with your ad by calling 541-963-3161 La G r a nde or 541-523-3673 Baker City.
•
cally. To "appear" you
form and have proof of service on th e p l aintiff's attorney or, if the V. plaintiff does not have an attorney, proof of UNKNOWN HEIRS OF on the plaintiff. L ESTER L BE A N ; service If you have any quesMARY BEAN; STATE tions, you should see OF OREGON; OCCU- an attorney i m m ediPANTS O F THE ately. If you need help PREMISES; AND THE in finding an attorney, REAL PROPERTY LO- you may contact the CATED AT 280 WEST O regon St at e B a r ' s ADAMS S T R E ET, Lawyer Referral ServHUNTINGTON, ORE- ice online at www.oreGON 97907, gonstatebar.org or by calling (503) 684-3763 Defendants. (in the Portland metropolitan area) or toll-free Case No. 15447 elsewhere in Oregon at (800) 452-7636. SUMMONS BY T his summons is i s PUBLICATION sued p u r s u an t t o ORCP 7. TO THE DEFENDANTS: RCO LEGAL, P.C. MARY BEAN: Randall Szabo, In the name of the State OSB ¹115304 o f Oregon, you a r e rszabo©rcolegal.com hereby required to ap- Attorneys for Plaintiff pear and answer the 511 SW 10th Ave., complaint filed against Ste. 400 you in the above-enti- Portland, OR 97205 tled Court and cause (503) 977-7840 on or before the expi- P: F: (503) 977-7963 ration of 30 days from t he date o f t h e f i r st LegaI No. 00043849 publication o f t hi s Published: December 16, summons. The date 23, 30, 2015, January of first p u blication in 6, 2016 this matter is Decemb er 16, 2015. I f y o u IN THE CIRCUIT fail timely t o a p pear COURT OF THE STATE and answer, plaintiff OF OREGON FOR THE w ill a p p l y to the COUNTY OF BAKER a bove-entitled c o u r t for the relief prayed for JOHN REUBER,
CKK S I F I E D S W O R IQ H ow T o G e i R e s u l t s $
• 0
side will win automati-
'
IN THE NAME OF THE STATE OF OREGON: Y ou are h e reby r e quired to appear and answe r t he F irst Amended Co mplaint filed against you in the a bove e n t i t le d s u i t within thirty (30) days of the date of first publ icatio n s p e c if i e d herein along with the required filing fee. If you fail to so answer, for want thereof, Plaint iff w ill apply t o t h e Court for the relief demanded in P laintiff's First Amended Complaint.
II
si
Plaintiff is seeking relief
t o b e d e c lared t h e owner in fee simple of the real property des cribed i n t h e F i r s t Amended Co mplaint and to be e ntitled to possession t h e r eof, free of any estate, title, claim, lien, or interest of Defendants or those claiming under Defendants and quiet-
s
I
I'
ing title in th e p r e mises in Plaintiff.
NOTICE TO DEFENDANTS READ THESE PAPERS C AREFULLY! Y O U MUST "APPEAR" IN THIS CASE OR THE OTHER SIDE WILL WIN AU T O M A T ICALLY. TO "APPEAR" Y OU M U S T F I L E WITH THE COURT A L EGA L PA PE R CALLED A "MOTION" OR "ANSWER" OR "REPLY." THE "MOTION" OR "ANSWER" (OR "REPLY") MUST BE GIVEN TO THE COURT CLERIC OR ADMINISTRATOR WITHIN THIRTY (30) DAYS OF THE DATE
• 0
4® •
•
•
•
• 0
•
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
CLIMATE
KELLER
As part of Jewell's order, the BLM has been experimenting with targeted grazing to remove some of the fuel, notably Continued from Page 1B That's problematic, said Matt Germino, cheatgrassthat can provideforage before a research ecologist with the United States drying out. "I'm a huge proponent of using animals Geological Survey who specializes in sagebrush steppe ecosystems. Precipitation very strategically and very heavy in placfalling as rain rather than snow means es," said Karen Launchbaugh, director of the University of Idaho's Rangeland Centhat perennial native plants have less ter."So far, that's what I'm seeing ranchers water to store for summer use. And midwinter warm spells melt snow sooner, with and the BLM doing, at least in the Snake River plains. I'm kind of encouraged." some areas in recent years seeing spring runoff in winter. However, she noted,"poor grazing manAnother threat is cheatgrass, an invaagement usually favors annual invasive sive plant that can cause multiple wildfires grasses" such as cheatgrass. in adecade in areaswhere ithasreplaced Wyatt Prescott, executive director of the native vegetation, Germino said. IdahoCattleAssociation,said ranchersre"I would say things look pretty good for move cattle in dry years but aren't allowed cheatgrass," Germino said."Especially if to add more in wet years. ''What we have advocated for is that the warmer winters are overlaid by more ranchers need the flexibility to adapt to precipitation that occurs as rain and not snow." what the system provides," he said.
OWYHEE Continued~om Page 2B The monumentis located in Kane and Garfield counties in Utah, butironically the signing ceremony was conducted across the border inArizona, said Dixie Brunner, editor of the South Utah News, Kanab, Utah, who attended the event. That onlyincreased the angerofthelocalresidents, Brunner said. "People iin Kane County) went absolutely nuts when the monument was designated," she said. That included black balloons released, big protests, and the like, Brunner said. 'The local and state politicians tried to fightitin every way possible — to no avail, she said."Even years later, they still point to what an awful land grab it was." The land in question was always government land with manyrestrictions, but the people in Kane County felt that this was yet another layer ofrestrictions and a travesty to the Western way oflife, Brunner said.
THE OBSERVER a BAKER CITY HERALD — 9B
BUSINESS 8 AG LIFE
Years after it was designated, the monument is still a sourceofdeep resentment to the locals, she said, butit has had afew positives. "People have come to travel amund andview it,"Brunner SRld.
The Bureau of Land Management, which manages the monument, has built three visitor centers in remote locations, and do get a lot of visitors of which benefit the small communities, she said. 'The teaching aspect has been great, because we get many professionals studying it," Brunner said. In the regional reports about the Utah monument debate, opponentscomplained about the loss of natural resource jobs, such as minirg, timber and agriculture. However, Headwaters Economics in its report, which covered the two counties the monument sits in, said that those commodityindustries were becoming a smaller share to the overall economy in the region before the creation of the monument. Service jobs now account for
key action items and follow up required. Schedule your vacation days and get them on the calendar. Actually take the time off. Invite your management team out of the office for a day in January and create a plan for the year. Provideverbalevaluations of your personnel this year using a four-step program. First, tell the person what they are great at. Second, tell them what they need to focus on in terms of improvement. Third, ask them what you can do to help them in their areas of focus. Fourth, tell them how they can help you.
Continued from Page 1B Make a commitment to talk less and to listen more. Do this by asking questions and not sharing the answers. Establish a goal to leave work at the same time each day. Once this self imposed deadline is in place, you will be amazed at how productivity soars. Hold fewer meetings. Make sure that when a meeting is held, there is a printed agenda, someone facilitates, there is time allocatedforeach major subject under discussion and that at the end, and someone recaps who has ownership of the
the majority of employment growthin the Grand StaircaseEscalante Region in recent decades, the report said. Closer to Malheur County is Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument ontheOregon-Californiaborderwhich,atless than 70,000 acres, is nowhere near the size of the monument in Utah or the monument being sought in Malheur County. The Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument consists ofapproximately 62,000acres of BLM-administered land in rugged southwestern Oregon and privately-owned land is often adjacent to public land in the monument, according to BLM documents. This monument was also established by Clinton in 2000, and is the first monument set asidesolely forthepreservation ofbiodiversity, the BLM SRld.
Bert Etling, editor of the Ashland Daily Tidings, said, having been in Oregon just a little more than a year, that it is seen as a draw for tourism. "Myimpression is that, in the tourist-dependentAshland area, at least, the monument
is seen as one of the jewels in a crown of spectacular natural resources attracting people hereforoutdoorrecreation and is an assetin thatrespect," Etling said. But, he acknowledges the people in the greaterJackson County area take a different view. One of those is Jackson County Commissioner Doug Breidenthal who said he is unhappy with the loss of tax base as ranches within the monument are sold off and boughttobeincluded aspart of the monument. He also criticized the closure ofroads in the monument limiting or closing off access by people with disabilities. Road closures are a part of the management plan for the monument, he said. While opponents call the wilderness and monument proposals overreaching, proponents say the proposals are needed to ensure the canyonlands am keptin pristine condition in the future. The issue will be on a nonbindingreferendum Malheur County will vote on March 8.
Start your day by having a to dolistto keep focused.At lunch, update and reprioritize the list. Resolve to understand thatthe roleofa leaderin any organization is that of a teacher. Regardless of where someone is placed on the org chart, everyone wants to know "why are we doing this?" and the leader is the one person who can answer the question best. Set agoalto m ake 2016 your personal best year ever. Don't let the daily hassles oflife and business stand in your way of achieving your own goals for health, relationships and learning.
r
WHAT PERFECT FEELS LIKE.'" Lennoxe makesthe most energy-eRicient system youcan Rnd. Which means the appliance you use the most will also save you themost.Learn more at lennox.com
Slennoxartproject
Receive up to a
%00 INSTANT DISCOUNT with purchase af qualifying Lennox home mmfert products.
Receive a FREE IComfort Thermostat with purchase • of qualifying Lennox® home comfort products. Retail value $500
=A/l Air =HVAC Service 1703 Albany St, La Grande
541-962-0452
www.allairhvac.biz
ccB¹162732
Offer expires 12/31/2015. **
InstantD> scount offer >svahdonly w>thpurchase of quahfy>ngLennox products. Free>ComfortThermostat productto be>nstaled > sbased onquahfy> ngLennoxproductpurchasedanddoesnot >ncludeany add>ho nal laborcostsassooated w>th the>nstalahon of thefreeproduct. © 2016 Lennox IndustnesInc.Lennox Dealers >nclude >ndependently ownedandoperatedbus>nesses. Oneofferperqualfy>ng purchase.
• Qw@
®Qo ,S, y~"/
,t f
,
o 0 galiva<:
b scrii t i o n
WG<~
~ y gp EQ > T~ l.~ P ~~pt-$) wtt+ ' h LOCa( ge'N5 >g
On. Wed
9
'ng < n Serts'
ang shoPPing
H0~;d0y eVent
76 O'
'
gager Cttp H ta~ ofornia~ .<~~ Observet t'C qCentral Ca ines 0 o on) 4 fhe Union 0
I}
I Sports Calendars • The V eac
d eho olreo y for rny friend SubSCriPtiOnP0ymen
gift cer i '
HK BFKRVKR
j.g@g
RATES FOR THE BAKER CITY HERALD: $23.25 CARRIER DELIVERED• $26.25 MOTOR DELIVERED• RATES FOR THE OBSERVER: $25.50 CARRIER DELIVERED• $28.50 MOTOR DELIVERED 'Must be prepaid. Payment must be processed before gift certificates are issued and must be picked up at our office. Must not have been a subscriber in the last 30 days to qualify. Full 3-month commitment required. Not valid with any other offers or promotions.
0
e
0
•
RegularHoursNewYear's Eve8 NewYear's Day Primerib, saladbar,cowboybread, lobster and all the regulamenu r items.
T'I 0 T-I' ~ P~0'IT QIYlgRQPgp@ FQsxls 8@85l@pl Sgkl5Id HAIBEs, Q5ggfQR aml6-3639
•000
Open for dinner: Mon-Wed-'Ihurs-Fri at 4:30 pM • Sat 3:30 pM • SU11 12:30 pM
Closed Tuesday • Open by reservation for private parties. 10 miles north of Baker City on Hwy 30 in Haines, Oregon 541-S56-3639 • www.hainessteakhouse.com
'ITT' ~VTgQT QR~ TT'~0V
QR
Live Music New Year's Eve by Duane Boyer •000
•000
10B — THE OBSERVER s BAKER CITY HERALD
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
COFFEE BREAK
CRIME
Cat olic ospitals value livesofmot erandc ild
icia s uenia'teen, mot erlianne to ee
DEARABBY: You printed a letter from a ifI say that to these people, it will come ojj" woman INov. 25)whose husband told her as rude. Also, I don't want her to think I don't think she's pretty. How can I respond while she was pregnant that, ifit came to a choice, he would choose the life of the baby in a way that isn't rude to well-intentioned over hers. Your response contained a piece o f strangers, but at the same time allows me to misinformation I would appreciate you cormake a statement about the importance of character over beauty? recting for your readers. — MOM OF BEAUTIES You asserted thatit is Catholic policy to DEAR MOM: When save the life of the baby over the mother in obstetrical emersomeone exclaims that your DEAR child is beautiful, accept the gencies. Abby, that is one of the oldest but most persistent piecABB Y comp l iment and say something like this Yes, my child es of misinformation out there. This inaccurate statement IS beautiful, but more imporhas been replayed even in movies in spite of tant, she is beautiful on the inside." It will reinforce the message to your daughter that repeated denials by Catholic hospitals and the professioruds who render care in them. character is equally, if not more important, than physical beauty. The fact is: Catholic policy is abundantly clear on the dignity ofboth mother and baby, and makesno prv'ority ofoneovertheother. DEARABBY: Isn't the rule of etiquette Catholic hospitals operate with the same that when a gift is given, it belongs to the restandardsofsafety in m aternity careand are cipient? My mothersendsgifts to ourinfant inspected by the same organizations that indaughter. She is the ftrst grandbaby, and my spect non-Catholic maternity programs such mother is a doting grandparent. My quesas the Joint Commission and the licensing tion is what should happen when my child agency of each state. Catholic hospitals must outgrows the items — clothing shoes, toys, etc. adhere to the same robust standards as every My mother expects me to put them all in a other maternity service in the country. storage bin and return them to her. Therehave been timeswhen Ihavepacked I would appreciate it i fyou could assure up things to give to friends who haveyounger yourreadersthat,whilethism akes forgood movies and novels, it is not the Catholic posi- daughters than ours, or taken them to a resale shop. My mother then becomes upset that I'm tion. The dignity of the life ofboth mother and baby are critically important to all those not returning theitems to her. Sheis saving serving in Catholic health care. Thank you them for my sister, who isn't even pregnantyet. foryour help with this. While I have no issue with saving some — SR. CAROL EEEHAN, PRESIDENT things for a potential niece, my friends need AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, these things NOW, and I feel strange essenCATHOLIC HEALTHASSOCIATION tially being obligated to return them. Is my DEAR SISI'ER CAROL: Since printing that mom out ofline? It's ojj"-putting to receive a letter, I have meived a crash course in ethics at gift that comes with a return clause. — CONFUSED IN CENTRAL TEXAS Catholic hospitals. I apologize to you and to my DEAR CONFUSED: It appears your Catholic readers for saying what I did. mother is not only a doting grandma, but DEARABBY:All children are beautiful to also someone who is determined to get a their parents. My three children are of mixed double bang for her buck. Once given, a gift doesbelong to the recipient.Otherwise,it's race and get a lot of attention because foit. The boysarealoofabout random complinot a gift but a loan. ments they receivefrom strangers. However, And yes, however well-intentioned your I'm worried about the pressure it may put on mother may be, she is out ofline to demand that everything she has given be returned my daughter to be "pretty." Icaremore about my daughter'scharacto her. il mean, what will she do if your ter than her looks, but I'm concerned that sister has only boys?)
By Emily Schmall
xas
FORT WORTH, TexasA Texas woman and her son, a teenknown forinvoking an"aflluenza" defense after a deadly drunken driving wreck, held a sortoffarewell party before fleeing his probation, driving to the M exican border and tryingto disguise themselves, officials said Tuesday. Tarrant County Sherif Dee Anderson said 18-yearold Ethan Couch and his mother, who were detained Monday in the Pacific Coast resort city of Puerto Vallarta, plannedtheirdisappearance. "They even had something that was almost akin to a going-awaypartybefore leaving town," he said. Couch was on juvenile probation for the wreck that killed four people when he was 16. During the sentencing phase ofhis trial, a defenseexpert argued that his wealthy parents coddled him into a sense of irresponsibility — a condition the expert termed"aflluenza." The condition is not recognized as a medical diagnosis by the American Psychiatric Association, and its invocation drew widespread ridicule. Anderson said an arrest warrant would be issued for Couch's mother, Tonya Couch, on charges ofhindering an apprehension. A prosecutor says that during a hearing next month they plan to ask a judge to transfer Ethan Couch's case to adult court. Couch's attorneys, Scott
• ACCuWeather.cOm ForeCaS Tonight
Friday
M ost l y s u n n y
Freezing fog
Freezing fog
Freezing fog
Baker City Temperatures (0
High I low (comfort index)
11 0
0
19
0
16 3
0
18 1
0
24 1
(0)
26 2 ( 1)
26 5 (0)
21 6 (2)
28 5 (2)
La Grande Temperatures
8 (2)
25 2 ( >)
Enterprise Temperatures
23 1 (> )
5 (>)
25 5 (>)
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. I
1
Shown is Thursddy's weather weather. Temperatures ar~ e d nesday night's lows and Thursday's highs.
IIIII
gi~igi
a
'zns
It
erpris'e
Pendleton +
r
Portlan
• 25P3
Ne port 3
RedWnd
• ) Coryal
®
B~
Gity~ • "
Cr-
i 2W
Eugeee,. ' 2$/39
13/24
:r
yL4g
.II Extremes ; Tuesday for the 48 contiguqus states Nattott
•
High: 88 ................... Plant City, Fla.
QK lamath Falls ~,O~ 8123
8
Mexico City *
flC
Source: AP Graphic: Staff, TNS
Brown and Reagan Wynn, said in a statement they won't comment on the case until they speak with their client, which likely won't happen before Couch reaches the U.S. Ricardo Ariel Vera, the representativeofM exico's immigration institute in the western state of Jalisco, said the mother and son were held at immigration offices in the state capital, Guadalajara, and were returned to the United States aboard a commercial flight to Houston on Tuesday. "They are going to be sent back to their country, given that they were in Mexico improperly,"Ariel Vera said. 'They would have had to enter, for example, as tourists, but they entered without registering." Mexico's Jalisco state prosecutors'office said its agents had been working withAmerican authorities since Dec. 26 to track down and capture Couch and his mother. They were found in a
~
'
Forecasts and graphics provided by AccuWeather, Inc. ©2015
~,,'4t <
'g~
Low : - 2 4 . . ...................... Moose,wyo. ' We ttest: 1.5a" .... Rutherfordton, N.C. '
regon: High: 48 Low: -a Wettest: 0.48" ...
1Info.
Hay Information Thursday Lowest relative humidity ................ 55% Afternoon wind ....... VARat2 to4 mph Hours of sunshine .............................. 6.4 Evapotranspiration .......................... 0.02 Reservoir Storage through midnight Tuesday Phillips Reservoir 5% of capacity Unity Reservoir 25% of capacity Owyhee Reservoir 9% of capacity McKay Reservoir 22% of capacity Wallowa Lake 16% of capacity Thief Valley Reservoir 44% of capacity Stream Flows through midnight Tuesday Grande Ronde at Troy .......... 1220 cfs Thief Vly. Res. near N. Powder ... 4 cfs Burnt River near Unity .............. 6 cfs Lostine River at Lostine .............. N.A. Minam River at Minam .......... 244 cfs Powder River near Richland .... 67 cfs
te
Mll ' '.Ontario ' :-' 10/20 ~ • 7
yg Belld t
Vallar j
r icultu
L'a Grand ,8!2$~,
PSI ' Salem • 24<40
puertk.
Baker City High Tuesday ................ 27 Low Tuesday ................. 14 Precipitation Tuesday ......................... .. Trace Month to date ................ ... l.a4" Normal month to date .. ... 0.92" Year to date ................... . 10.50" Normal year to date ...... . 10.07" La Grande High Tuesday ................ ao Low Tuesday ................. 25 Precipitation Tuesday ......................... .. Trace Month to date ................ ... 1.82" Normal month to date .. ... 1.57" Year to date ................... . 11.55" Normal year to date ...... . 16.4a" Elgin High Tuesday .............................. 29 Low Tuesday ............................... 22 Precipitation Tuesday .................................... 0.01" Month to date ............................ 7.78" Normal month to date ............. 2.87" Year to date ............................ 29.45" Normal year to date ............... 2a.54"
Sunday
Saturday
yL>ig
P artly cloud y
MEXICO
1mana
Thursday
dowdy section of Puerto Vallarta's old town, far from the glitzy resorts,golfcoursesand high-rise hotels of the city's newer section. The street corner where they were found is dotted with a small sandwich shop, a taco stand, and a mom-and-pop corner store. A playground and a day-care center with a fence topped with razor wire stand nearby. Couch was apparently trying to lie low; a photo distributed by the Jalisco state prosecutor's office show him in detention with his blond hair dyed black and his normally blondish beard a light brown. Anderson has said he believes the two fled in late Novemberaftera video surfacedthat appears to show Couch at a party where people were drinking. If found to be drinking, Couch's probation could be revoked and he could be sentenced to up to 10 years in prison. Couch was driving drunk and speeding on a dark two-lane road south of Fort Worth in June 2013 when he crashed into a disabled SUV off to the side, killing four people and injuring several others, including passengers in Couch's pickup truck. He pleaded guilty tofour counts of intoxication manslaughter and two counts of intoxication assault causing serious bodily injury. Because ofhis age, he wasn't certified as an adult for trial and a judge sentenced him in juvenile court to 10 years' probation and a stint in a rehabilitation center.
U.S.
The Associated Press
... North Bend ........ Chemult ... North Bend
un
Oon
Sunset tonight ........ ................. 4:18 p.m. Sunrise Thursday .. 7:32 a.m.
Last
N ew
•
'
•000
•
•
•
.
•
eather HiStor A snowstorm in El Paso, Texas, on Dec. a1, 1982, brought the monthly total of snow there to 18 inches, which is 14 inches more than the town usually gets in an entire winter.
e in
1 i ies Thursday
Corvallis Eugene Hermiston Imnaha Joseph Lewiston Meacham Medford Newport Ontario Pasco Pendleton Portland Redmond Salem Spokane The Dalles Ukiah Walla Walla
•
• •
Hi L o
W
a9 2 2 a9 2 1
s s
27 1 7
c
al l a
s
za
-2
s
25 l a
c
27 1 42 2 1
s s
42 a 2 20 7
s
28 2 0
pc c
z a 12
c
a8 2 6
s
26
6
s
4 0 za
s
21
c c
5 22
za a
s
za l a
c
Recreation F OreCaSt Anthony Lakes Mt. Emily Rec.
10 22
Eagle Cap Wild. Wallowa Lake Thief Valley Res. Phillips Lake Brownlee Res. Emigrant St. Park McKay Reservoir Red Bridge St. Park
la
za 17
0 4 - 11 -2 0
za a 25 22 25 25
c-cloudy, sh-showers, t-thunderstorms, r-rain, sf-snow flurries, sn-snow, i-ice.
•
e
s s s s s
s 8 2 10 2
Weather (W): s-sunny, pc-partly cloudy,
•
•
Full
O •6 6
il'sfree andawailadle al •
First
s c c s
k.
I
-
•
•
<
•
-
UIIIl,JIQi5,. ' o 6
0 8
0
•
I '
0
. Oo~IE~TIEQ OOE oCC CVFCZ ' P T
secia sectionmar st esassin o anot ervear O
ne way we traditionally mark the end of the calendar year here at The Observer is through a special section. This year is no different, and the product we submit to you, the reader, is significant becauseitshowcases a variety of items that we believe will be of real interestto ourreaders. Our end-of -year specialsection relaysthetop storiesof2015,both lo-
cally and beyond, and displays photos fiom these critical news events. The top10 sportsstoriesofthe year, chosen by our sports staf, are
also highlighted.
FROMTHE ' EDITOR'S DESK . ANDREW CUTLER Probably the most notable feature is the inclusion ofhistorical images as well as photographs submittedby localreaders.I'm excited about the number and variety of the photos featured in this special section. Any time we at The Observer can secure content from our readers — in short, turning our product into an even more diverse, interaction platform — is a win as
far as I am concerned. That's because the paper is,atits core, for you — the reader. We put a lot ofhours into every edition and everyspecialsection and are proud of our work. In the end, the artifact you hold in your hands is for your benefit. We set out quite consciously to create a productthat willbeofinterestto awiderange ofpeoplew ith varied interests. As editor ,the end-of-year special sectioncan bebittersweet.Bitter because the triumphs and successes from thelastyearforourpaperwill
recede into the past as the New Year dawns. Yet at the same time, the New Year beckons with opportunity. Opportunity for us to once again striveto meet the goalswe setinternallyto give ourreadersa product that is useful and informative and also entertaining. The end-of-year special section bestows upon all of us in the newsroom and across the plant to reflect upon our successes during the past 12 months but also gives us the chance to ponder what we did well and what we can do better in 2016. That is the beauty of our business.
We always secure the opportunity to do things better. As editor, I set lofty goals for our operation because I firmly believe our readers deserve our very best, always. I hope you enjoy this end-of-year special section. Our employees across the whole plant put in a great performance during the past year, and it was apleasure toreview. This end-of-year special section is a way for us to display our hard work as wellasourappreciation for the readers who make the Observer continue to thrive.
Th'en~kY ~~eui ~FerQ A Very ~ Su~~ ccessf~u~ l
~Yeer -L> oo>ki~ ng forward ~to ll6 serving®ell,of you in 20 21 5 Elm Street, La Grande
541.963.5440 •000
ÃK91 •000
•000
20 — THE OBSERVER
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
Oregon Department ofTransportation snow plows run between Spring Creek and Emigrant Hill during heavy snowstorms along Interstate 84 on Nov. 25. Besides plowing roads, these plows are also outfitted for gravel dumping and dropping liquid deicer on roads.
Nick Niclequerica of Mike Becker General Contractor Incorporated cuts branches off a tree with a chainsaw while standing high in the airwith a Genie lift on Chestnut Street near the Foley Building on May15. Eight trees came down as part of the Adams Avenue Streetscape Project.
s
Tim Mustoe/TheObserver
Tim Mustoe/The Observer
Tim Mustoe /The Observer
A property near Sanderson Road north of Summerville stands before the afterglow of the Phillips Creek Fire only miles away on Aug. 3. Residents were told to be ready and prepared to pack their belongings. Some families had family photos already boxed away and ready to be removed.
Photos by Tim Mustoe, The Observer
They say a picture is worth1,000words. That stays especially true in the newsroom. The photographers at the La GrandeObserverhavecaptured many photosthisyearacrossa widearray ofnewsstories Fromcrimestoriesfeatures on real people, football and everything in between, the photos printed in the newspaper and online help tell the story fo what it'slike to live in Northeast Oregon. (• /
i
i I
v
Tim Mustoe /The Observer
A broken heart frames a construction excavator in front of the old Shelter From the Storm Community Advocacy Center building on April 3. Protesters of the demolition memorialized domestic violence victims.
Tim Mustoe/The Observer
Sitting in the living room of her rural lsland City home in May, Carol Mattson holds a photo of herself and her mother, Helen, who died on the eve of hunting season in 1945 about five miles north of La Grande. The case has never been solved.
Tim Mustoe/The Observer
el' 6 •
Aaron Romer of All Phase Electric guides the original chandelier ofThe Liberty Theatre from the ceiling to the floor as Julie Bodfish and Dale Mammen look on Feb. 19.
We're here for YOU. Grande Ronde Strong. Wishing you a Happy, Healthy New Year!
«' 1
/j,
I
:-' ]s"'
ORIW©N.
i~~ '
' *«
•000
•000
The Grande Ronde Hospital 8 Clinics Family.
C
= -
•000
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
THE OBSERVER — 30
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
Devi Mathson holds her son, Taylor, as he plays with her iPhone at the family's home in La Grande on March 23. Mathson, 2, suffered a seizure in February.
Evidence of the Grizzly Bear Complex fires located in both Oregon and Washington could easily be seen miles away in the Grande Ronde Valley on Aug. 21. The fire went on to burn over 75,000 acres
Tim Mustoe/The Observer
Tim Mustoe/The Observer
jgilk Q8"-> ~glg
Cherise Kaechele/TheObserver
Ronn Witcraft participates in graduation ceremonies at Eastern Oregon University in June at 71 years old. After his death in September, the EOU Board ofTrustees posthumously conferred his degree, which he was nearly finished with.
Cherise Kaechele/TheObserver
A late afternoon thunderstorm caused major flooding on Washington Avenue and Willow Street, above. Public works employees scrambled to divert traffic away from the streets with the most water.
Cherise Kaechele/TheObserver
The Blue Mountain Conference Center was packed with members of the community who wished to speak about the national forest revision plan regarding the Umatilla, Malheur and Wallowa-Whitman national forests on Nov. 4.
Cherise Kaechele/TheObserver
Serving Union,Baker&W alovraCounties
~ ch~~9 „
- v+h>~9
Ex~~~
y o~i'
877-963-0474• 541-963-0474
V~~ • 0
•
There were 16 members of the La Grande Soroptimist Club at the Coats for Kids Drive on Nov. 2 at the Riveria Activity Center. Hundreds of items were collected throughout the year to go to families who need them.
• • 0
•
•
•
r
• C© • 0
•
40 — THE OBSERVER
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
THE OBSERVER'STOP 10SPORTS STORIES OF THEYEAR Union girls win first track and field title since 1996 With a state championship glory in its sights, Union's hopes of a girls team title came down to the wire on May 22.
Ahead 54-50 in team points over East Linn Christian, the Bobcats entered the 4-by-400 meter n v C relay at the Class 2A state championship in Eugene v as the third seed, while the Eagles were the race's top seed. But Elizabeth Herbes, Stormy Bullard, Annie Duncan and Michelle Herbes came through with a clutch time, as three of the four ran h personal bestsplittime sfor the relay, and Union finished half-a-second in front of East Linn Christian for second place in the race (4 minutes, 12.04 seconds) and an overall team title with 62 points to the Eagles' 56. "I knew if we got first or Josh Benham/TbeObserver second we'd win, and if we got The Union girls track and field team is all smiles after winning a state title at the Class 2A state championship May 21 third we'd tie," Elizabeth Her- and 22 in Eugene. It was the first time since 1996 that the Bobcats finished in first place. bessaid."So Iran asfastas my little legs would carry me. Itwas a gutsy race.Allguts and heartto getitthere." It was the Union girls program's first state title since 1996. Elizabeth Herbes won the 100, while Laura Herbes placedsecond in the pole vault, and Elly Wells was runner-up in the 3,000. The Bobcat boys nearly equaled the girls, as they finished tied for second as ateam (45 points),the first time since 1956 the boys program reached the top-four at state. Much like the girls, it came down to Josh Benham/TbeObserver the 4-by-400 for the boys, Union/Cove cross country with Trevor Verhelst, Brooke runner Alex Graffunder led Scantling, Dawson Kennon the team to a first-place +<o 4roa', r p mW and Chase Stewart placing finish at the 3A/2A/1 A state second (3:33.58). Verhelst Cherise Kaechele/TbeObserver championship by placing also won the 400 while Eastern Oregon University players (in white) battle Biola (California) University for fifth individually. placing second in the 100 possession during a NAIA National Championship opening round match Nov. 21. and 200. Garnering Biola won 1-0 in the first-ever opening round match for the Mountaineers. In 4A, La Grande posted that distinction, in for the eventual gameLa Grandeand Ontario its top finish in decades by (nine), as did forward Crystal however, was taking fifth in both the boys winner, and Eastern couldn't Schuder in goals (17) and finished with identical 5-1 obtained only and girls competitions at GOL records and split the two after winning a capitaliz edown the stretch points (40). The Mounties the Class 4A state champihead-to-head meetings. But as the Eagles escaped with a were ranked 30th in the closer-than-expected shootonships. The Tigers totaled 1-0 win in the NAIA Nation- final coaches poll, the highest La Grande won 2-0 while On- out with rival Ontario. al Championship opening ranking in program history. tario won 3-2, and the goal difAndrew Peasley threw 32.33 points on the boys to clip Valley Catholic's 31, and round Nov. 21 in La Grande. — JoshBenham ferential in favor of La Grande three touchdown passes and the girlscompiled an even 32 The loss ended the dream earned it the first-place nod ran for the game-winning La Grande boyssoccer and theleague'stop spotto 67-yard score with 4:01 to points to tie with Sutherlin. season for the Mounties s GOL reign the Class 4A playofL During play as La Grande rallied to "So many kids qualified (17-3-1), who were searching ends Mac-Hi' for a first-ever berth to the the regularseason,theTigers knock ofFOntario 46-43 Oct. and so many placed," head Wyatt Schlaht posted controlled the two matches coach Julie Bodfish said."The national championship site a second-half hat trick, 23 at Community Stadium. "It feels amazing," Peasley kids have just came out and in Orange Beach, Alabama. Josh Ebel with Mac-Hi, winning 3-1 on "The girls battled," Eastern the road and at home. gone crazy. It's that Hayward and Connor said."Before the game, that's 'They feel great about magic." all we were thinking about. head coach Justin Wagar Cutler scored The girls were led by This wasn't going to be our said."Just gave up a goal on twice, and the that," Wright said ofhis Amanda Welch, who won La Grande seniors' lastgame." a set piece. That's a tough team taking the GOL's top titles in the 800 and the The Tigers hosted a Class way to lose.It'sthe cruelpart boys soccer team scored spot. eight times in the second In the first round of the 4A playofFfootball game 1,500, while Blaine Kreutz aboutsoccer.Butatribute to capturedatitlein the 400for (Biola). They're a good team, half to bury Baker 9-0 in a playoffs Nov. 3, Blaine Kreutz against Cascade, but Couthe boys. and we wish them well at na- Greater Oregon League fiscoredtwo goalsastheTigers gars running back Garrett — JoshBenham tionals. We played our butts nale Oct. 20 and lock up the dominated fiom start to finCofFey rushed for 331 yards ish to take down Madras 4-0. and four touchdowns to lead ofF, just didn't get one." topspotin the league. EOU's women's soccer ''We came out and started The Mounties still easily The win helped dethrone Cascade to a 42-27 victory enjoysmagicalseason enjoyed their most successful McLoughlin, which had won ofFreally fast, which is not over the Tigers Nov. 6. the previous 11 GOL titles. The playofFloss snapped a From the first tick ofF season in program history, unusual, but it's what we ''We played well,w ehad a the clock to the final horn, with its best finish at the five-game winning streak for wanted to do and we did it," the Tigers, which finished 7-2 Eastern Oregon Cascade Collegiate Confergood showing and dominated Kreutz said. University The victory moved ence tournament (second possession," coach Wade overall and 3-0 in the GOL. women's soccer place) and an appearance in Wright said. La Grande into the quarterWhile in difFerent classes, the national championship Kale Weis posted the only finals for the first time since Imbler and Wallowa also had outplayed No. 13 Biola (Cali- opening round. Eastern's 17 goal of the first half ofF a significant postseason runs 2001, but the the Tigers' run fornia) University. It swarmed victories this fall. In 2A, the Panthers setanew record for rebound for a 1-0 lead before ended there. North Marion the Eagles'defense with the program and completed the floodgates opened in the defeated La Grande 3-1 in went 5-5 overalland placed numerous scoring opportunithe biggest one-year turnsecond half. the second round Nov. 7, and second in the Wapiti League around in the NAIA in 2015 Schlaht scored ofF a pass the Tigers finished with a with a 3-1 mark. Imbler won ties while keeping the potent Biola attack largely at bay. after the team went 3-8-4 from Weis, Ebel put in a goal 9-4-1 overall record. its first-round playofF game But one well-aimed kick in 2014. Other team records ofFa corner kick and Schlaht — Ronald Bond Nov. 7 at Lost River, 60-35, to fall include shutouts (14), erased all that in a moment scored again for a 4-0 lead. but lost 44-14 in the second La Grande football claims round at Regis Nov. 14. and halted the Mountaineers' points (175) and most goals Schlaht's third goal later in unprecedented run. in a game (13 against Sierra the halfstretched the lead to outright GOL crown The Cougars went 7-3 With the match scoreless 6-0 before Cutler put in his Nevada College Aug. 29). For the first time in a deoverall with a 4-0 Old Oregon in the second half, Biola's Goalkeeper Jessica Parker two goals and Ebel polished cade, the La Grande football Leaguerecordtoclaim the Adeline Saldana utilized the ofFthe scoring with a long team is the outright Greater set a new single-season league title in 1A Special Diswind to curve a corner kick free kick. Oregon League champion. frict 1. Wallowa blasted Triad school mark in shutouts L
l 4~
-
Ronald Bond/The Observer
La Grande'sWyatt Schlaht scored in the first half of the Tigers' 4-0 playoff win over Madras Nov. 3. 54-20 in a first-round home playofF game Nov. 7, but fell in the second round at home to Perrydale in a heartbreaking 42-36 defeat Nov. 14. — Ronald Bond
Union/Cove claims sixth
boys crosscountry title Another chapter was written Oct. 31 in the lengthy history of the Union/Cove cross country program. Backed by depth on both the boys and girl s sides,the Bobcats nearly pulled ofF a dual-team titleperformance as the boys team held ofF the field for first place, while the girls came up one spot short of a fifth-straight championship and fi nished runner-up at the Class 3A/2A/1A state cross country championship at Lane Community College in Eugene. The finishes capped ofF a remarkable run for the Union/Cove seniors on both teams, who have been a part of fi ve state titlesand three second-place finishes in their combined careers. "It's a tradition to hang a banner in our gym if a team is fi rstorsecond atstate," Union/Cove head coach Steve Sheehy said."In the last four years this group of seniors has hung eight banners. It's prettyspecial." The boysteam took home the program's sixth title, their first since 2012, with 64 points, narrowly edging Cat-
lin Gabel (68), which came in second. All seven runners finishedwith personalrecords to help the Bobcats pull the mild upset, as they entered state ranked No. 3. For the boys, Alex Graffunder had the highest finish for Union/Cove, picking up a first team all-state honor with his fikh-place time of 16 minutes, 37 seconds. His mark was the third-fastest on the state course in the program's history. Elizabeth Herbes was the top individual Bobcat on the girls team with a time of 20:21, good for 13th place and secondteam all-state. In the Class 4A competition, La Grande boys runner Keegan Dutto (13th) led three harriers in the top 30 as the Tigers earned their second straight fikh-place showing. The girls team didn't have enough runnerstoplace as ateam, but Heather Keniry earned a first team all-state honor with her sixth-place individual finish. — JoshBenham
Our entire BEO familyjoins together to wish you and yours a healthy, prosperous newyear!
k
'v
t
n
Term Loans ) ) Lines of Credit ) ) Ag & Commercial Real Estate Loans ., 7:~a. J. l.'
B of Eastern Oregon Island City Loan Production Office ~ ~ 10201N. McAlister ~ ~ 541.624.5040 g Member FDIC
• 0
•
• 0
•
beoba nk. Com
• 0
•
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
THE OBSERVER —50
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
THE OBSERVER'STOP 10SPORTS STORIES OF THEYEAR Inaugural season for EOU men's soccer begins The Eastern Oregon University men's soccer team had a landmark day with its first match in program t' history Aug. 29. In &ont of their home crowd, the Mountaineers put on a solid show and displayed what the future holds. About the only thing that didn't go right was actually getting the ball in the net. Eastern controlled play forthe majority ofitsseason opener against Sierra Nevada College, generating countless scoring options. But the nerves of the first game cropped up at inopportune times, and it mustered just one goal in a 2-1 nonconferencedefeat athome. "At the end of the day, the nerves got to us, I think," Eastern head coach Stan Rodrigues said."(Sierra NeCherise Kaechele/TbeObserver The Eastern Oregon University volleyball team celebrates a three-set sweep over Southern Oregon University Oct. 3. vadalshowed a lotofheart today, as well. But the jitters The Mountaineers claimed their first-ever outright Cascade Collegiate Conference regular season championship. were definitely there. I didn't +' • sleep much last night, either. in the 100 backstroke with a But it was good for us to school-r ecord time of1:00.48 and placed sixth in the 50 come out and get punched in the mouth in the first game." free, and Abbey Felley was Thirty shots were taken third in the 500 &eestyle and by the Mounties compared to fourth in the 200 &eestyle. — JoshBenham seven Sierra Nevada shots, and Eastern finished with EOU football team falls nine shots on goal compared short of lofty expectations to the Eagles' seven. Down 1-0, the Mounties fiIn 2014, the Eastern nally capitalized on a chance Oregon University football when Robert Wilson headed team equaled in a goal in the 81st minute a programfor the first goal in Eastern best mark of history. But Sierra Nevada eight wins. responded with Christopher The MounPulido's goal three minutes taineers defeated Southern laterto retake the lead. Oregon University 31-27 in The Mounties picked the season finale, but were up their first win ever the left out of the NAIA National Julie Bodfish phato following match, defeating Championship Series, which La Grande junior Bryce Ebel won a pair of individual state titles at the 4A/3A/2A/1A Multnomah University 6-0 state swimming meet Feb. 20 and 21 in the 50-yard freestyle race and the 100 butterfly Southern eventually won. The Mounties were ranked Sept. 1. They won their first Ebel helped lead the Tigers to a second-place finish, while the La Grande girls team Cascade Collegiate Conferplaced third overall. No. 15 in the preseason poll ence match 2-1 over Norththis fall, which carried over west University Sept. 19, place Henley by three points, the final ranking fiom 2014. and finished the season with for third. North Bend was the But Eastern never quite got a 7-9-0 overall record, going on track and went 4-7. team winner with 75 points, 5-8-0 in CCC play. In the final game of the and Sweet Home came in — JoshBenham second with 74.5 points. year against Southern, the "I can't commend the kids Raiders stormed out of the EOU volleyball wins first enough on their performanc- gates for a 14-0 lead, and outright conference title es," head coach Darren Dutto Eastern never trimmed the Last season brought the said."It was an incredible lead to single digits during irstco-Cascade Collegiate f a 48-37 Frontier Conference team performance by all of Conference the kids." loss to Southern at Commuregular season Leading the charge for the nity Stadium Nov. 14. title for Eastboys was Bryce Ebel, who Eastern quarterback Zach ern Oregon Bartlow tied a career high and capturedtwo state titles.He University. This won the 50-yard &eestyle school record with five total with a time of 22.45 seconds, touchdowns, four through the year, the Mountaineers stand alone on top of the CCC. airand one rushing.Hefinand earned first in the 100 ished with 228 yards passing Eastern came through in butterfly, clocking a 50.86, itsregular season finale,dewhich Dutto said just missed with no interceptions, and 111 feating Walla Walla UniverAll-American consideration. rushing yards on 19 carries. sity 25-18, 24-26, 25-9, 25-18 Calvin Connors caught a pair Cherise Kaechele/TbeObserver He wasalso a partoftwo strong relay races. Bryce Nov. 5 on the road. Union seniors, from left, Laura Herbes, Carsyn Roberts, of touchdowns, and Aifred The four-set victory left Keesha Sarman and Chelsie Houck come together in the Ebel, Keegan Dutto, Josh Gross rushed for 82 yards on the Mounties and their 18-2 Ebel and Lance Denny placed Eastern's Senior Day. final seconds of their 51-28 win over Kennedy for third recordallalone asthe confer- place at the 2A girls state tournament March 7. One of those seniors, second in the 200 medley relay with a time of 1 minute, Jace Billingsley, caught five ence champions for the first Tigers claw way to top-3 44.77 seconds, and Bryce and receptionsfora team-high 87 time in the program's history. were in the gym in the win"I'm really proud ofhow we ter and the spring, doing our finishes at state swimming Josh Ebel, Tony Clay and yards and a touchdown. handled not only just about conditioning and weightlift"Southern has a great Behind a dual-state Dutto also won second in the champion, the La Grande 400 &eestyle relay. offense and a very athletic every opponent we've played, ing, this is when it pays offa McLean-Morehead said. The top six finishers in defense," he said."They were but especially the tough boys swimopponents," head coach Kaki Against Walla Walla, ming team fighting for that playoff spot. eacheventgenerated points McLean-Morehead said."For outside hitter Amanda Miller finished second, for their teams. Josh Ebel But I was proud of the way the most part, we've played while the girls pickeda great match fora placedthird in the 100 the team fought the whole consistently well and at a career-best, as she delivered team earned &eestyle and fikh in the 100 time, no one gave up. All I high level." 21 kills. a third-place finish at the backstroke, Keegan Dutto can do now is be thankM for Indeed, the Mounties were The Mounties fell in the 4A/3A/2A/1A state meet in took third in the 500 &eestyle all the memories I've had, title match of the CCC tourGresham Feb. 20 and 21. and sixth in the 200 &eestyle, the teammates I've met and especially tough against nament to College of Idaho, The boys team ended up and Trevor HoSnan placed the upper echelon teams of everything the coaches have with 46 total points, edging sixth in the 500 freestyle. done for me." the Cascade. They were 5-1 and advanced to the NAIA against Southern Oregon For the girls team, Shelby Prior to the final loss, National Championships for out third-place Sweet Home, University, College of Idaho Baker placed third in the 50 Eastern suffered a handful the second straight year. East- which had 42 points, for secern went 1-2 in pool play and ond behind Catlin Gabel, who &eestyle, with a school-record of close defeats. The Mountand Northwest University, which are the next three won the meet with 63 points. time of25.06,and also took ies lost to Southern 38-35 was eliminated, and finished with a 25-6 overall mark. The girls team finished with fikh in the 100 &eestyle. in the first meeting of the teams in the standings. "All those times when we — JoshBenham 32 points, besting fourthHannah Roberts placed third season, fell to Rocky Moun-
l'
®
/II
Dr. MCMahan Family DentiStry
~Qf
504 Fourth Street, La Grande • (541) 963-5632 ® www.mylagrand e d e n t ist.com
lr k
~$
+I ~rr'r
<kle'rvrgrikIr
r
Cherise Kaechele/Tbe Observer
Eastern Oregon University's Robert Wilson (21) scored one of the team's two goals in Eastern's 2-0 upset over then-No. 9 Corban University Oct. 23. It was the biggest win for the Mountaineers in the program's first season. tain College 36-35 in double overtime after missing a 28-yard field goal to win it in regulation, and lost to the University of Montana-Western 30-23 on a blocked punt returned for a touchdown. — JoshBenham
Union girls basketball caps three-year run After the disappointment of March 6, it wasn't the game the Union girls basketball team had
hoped to be playing in. But the Bobcats treated its third/fifth-place game with Kennedy like a title contest, and it showed. Behind another superb all-around game from senior Keesha Sarman, the Bobcats outscored the Trojans 17-6 in the pivotal third quarter to lead to a 51-28 win March 7 in the 2A state tournament in Pendleton. With the third-place finish, the Bobcatsimproved on last year's fourth-place showing at state. "It wasn't a state championship, but for me, it felt like one," head coach Rhondie Rickman-Johansen said. "There is nothing in this world to be ashamed of with third place in the state of Oregon. We came in ranked fourth and beat a great team in Kennedy. I'm just really proud of their perseverance and their desire to win." Sarman, who will play next season at Concordia University, had 18 points, 17 rebounds (including seven offensive boards) and seven assists to spark Union in her finalgame. "It's definitely exciting," Sarman said.cWe talked in the locker room before the game about how we'd much rather go out with a win than come out with a loss. Third placefeelspretty darn good. To us, it feels like a state championship." The Bobcats bounced back after a 50-33 semifinal loss to Western Mennonite. Carsyn Roberts and Delanie Kohr each had eight points, with Kohr adding nine rebounds, and Elly Wells chipped in six points. Sarman, Roberts, Chelsie Houck, Sarah Good and Laura Herbes wereseniorsthatplayed their final game for Union, which placed second in 2013 and fourth in 2014. — JoshBenham
60 — THE OBSERVER
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
La Grande senior Elliott Jonasson, center, reacts with joy after claiming fourth in the 1,500-meter race at the Class 4A state track and field championships in Eugene May 23. He finished with a time of 4 minutes, 8.05 seconds. The Tigers finished fifth as a team.
Wallowa wrestler Micah Fuller, top, is shown during a match at the Union County-Wallowa County dual Feb. 5. The senior was dominant all season, and he won a state title in the 195-pound weight class at the 2A/1A state tournament Feb. 27 and 28.
qr/!Lr HiiMl 'r's6klfrl
1 SS
Jash Benham/TheObserver
Jash Benham/TheObserver
~ pn
Tim Mustae/The Observer
The La Grande football team celebrates its 46-43 win over Ontario Oct. 23 at Community Stadium. The victory ensured that the Tigers would capture their first outright Greater Oregon League title in a decade.
Photos byCherise Kaechele,Tim Mustoe, Ronald Bond and Josh Benham, The Observer
Basketball players hitting the court and wrestlers taking to the mat in the doldrums fowinter give way to the spring rebirth ofbaseball, softball and track and field As the summer .heat and baseball and softball leads to the fall spectacles of football and volleyball, the La Grande Observer was there to bring you the most compelling photos foeach and every sport ,ENA
4 s+iw+' e
I
C~ a
• %W
riiisK
'ulnrusl ~
za 'I I
Ranald Band/The Observer
New Plymouth, Idaho, bull rider Chase Robbins, who placed second, holds on for a 76-point ride during the KCMB Buckout June 26 in La Grande. eS
g
•
r's i
'•
Cherise Kaechele/TheObserver
Imbler basketball player Brandon McGilvray floats to the rim for a shot attempt during the Panthers' 2AWapiti League district championship game against Burns Feb. 21 at Eastern Oregon University.
•
•
Tim Mustae/TheObserver
•
•
•
•
•
e •
•
•
e
• •
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
• •
Eastern Oregon University pitcher Lindsey WaIchli unleashes a pitch during the first game of a college softbaII doubleheader against College of Idaho April 8.
•
•
•
•
• •
•
•
•
•
Ig gg r I Please don't drink and drive! Offering FREE NewYears Rides. Call 541-963-5022 • 0
•
• 0
•
• 0
•
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
Union's Delanie Kohr, left, and Sarah Good, right, trap and surround Imbler's Kailey Smith during a Wapiti League prep girls basketball game Jan. 23 in Union. The Bobcats won 55-42.
THE OBSERVER — 70
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
Elgin/Imbler's Joe Griffin, right, steals third base as Union/ Cove's Landon Houck awaits a throw during a nonleague prep baseball game April 21 in Elgin.
P~
i
I q
g jl /.
4a ]Jl
Josh Benham/TheObserver
Ronald Bond/TheObserver
49l&' ~
~ g P ~' ' 4 -
= w & ~
e ~
a
-
(s p
Cherise Kaechele/TheObserver
Eastern Oregon University's Kalvin Johanson throws down a two-handed slam during a college men's basketball game Oct. 30 at the Quinn Classic. Johanson scored 18 points and collected nine rebounds as the Mountaineers defeated the University of Victoria, 88-70, in their regular season home opener.
a
h
g)
g.i~y W Josh Benham/TheObserver
Q,)
•
h~
Enterprise's Nathaniel Perren leaps over the bar during the high jump at the Class 2A state track and field championships May 22 in Eugene. Perren won a title in the event with a leap of 6 feet, 2 inches.
'l,>Iil
•
V. ~C4fil~ fgf q',"'
a»
n
.
1Ctg
-.(l)'(f''h+ + ' •
i(„
igi arsls~@(r;s((ss(v-'+~V2~vPi("r i 4i , i % ~ ' '' .. ',"'" a Ronald Bond/TheObserver
Wallowa senior Noah Allen skies for an interception during a Class 1A prep football state playoff game Nov. 7 againstTriad. The Cougars won the first-round matchup, 54-20.
...an t
Ronald Bond/The Observer
La Grande pitcher Ryan Adams dives offthe mound for a ground ball during the second gameofa prep baseball doubleheader with McLoughlin April 11, which the Tigers swept.
a n y o u o r m a i ng a
Best Wi~s~he~s for th,e upcoming year from al'l of us at... ,
~ tY ( Y'r • 0
•
+S ~~ >S>
.from our
' 1415 Ad am s Av e n u e 5 4 1-963-4161 w w w . g o s sm o t o r s . c o m • 0
•
• 0
•
SD — THE OBSERVER
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
"'r)tII>s; t lr
<
1
a~
-' lg»
A%E in the Grande Ronde Valley By Cherise Kaechele,Alyssa Sutton andTim Mustoe, The Observer
Union County has a number ofcommunity wi-de events throughout the entire year. The arts and entertainment world in the area always has something going on. No matter what season it is.
III|NII ~~7i'II")'I' M c'
r
sI
%)
Alyssa Sutton/TheObserver
Tim Mustoe/The Observer
Jeremy Adair from 1188 John Day Brewery pours a glass in June at the Eastern Oregon Beer Festival.
Despite their differences in age, the veterans who walked in the Veterans Day Parade Nov. 17 along Adams Avenue in La Grande were all celebrated for their service.
svrr
Cherise Kaechele/The Observer
"No Sex Please,We're British a theater production farce by Eastern Oregon University students, ran in May at the McKenzieTheatre in Loso Hall.The production involved buffoonery, horseplay and improbable situations. The story focused on an assistant bank manager, Peter Hunter (played by Richard Scott), who lives in a flat above his bank with his new bride, Frances (Bryn McLaughlin).
Despite 5-degree temperatures, a group ranging from 100 to 250 attended the New Year's Eve Block Party on Adams Avenue New Year's Eve night. The party had warming tents and warming barrels to keep the attendeestoasty.
T I =!
p+p' I)-q+ kh/
J.D. Platt performed at the Union County Fair in July with his 11 dogs, all different breeds, who showed off their skills and talents.
r
t•
rrlrtrlL~~ r ™ P' Cherise Kaechele/TheObserver
$~
~ $,~;Q AH PI„@%tit/+;;:„rs Cherise Kaechele/TheObserver
g
tss
We areexcited to seeyou and what's new in 2016 You'll be amazed at what you'll find!
1SS e • 0
•
Open Every Day 411 Fir 541-963-9602 • 0
•
• 0
•
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
THE OBSERVER — 90
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW %
P
This barn is located near Catherine Creek with some snow dusting the surrounding hills outside of Union.
The fall colors make for a beautiful photo along Foothill Road outside of La Grande. ae
s
4
Stephanie Shoemaker photo
Marcus Goetz photo
j r le
'I
~y y 'QL".s„, 0,( ;~ . e
Julia Goetz photo
This photo was taken in mid-August with the smoke from the fires over the summer, creating a gorgeous sunset along Conley Road near Cove.
The Observer always welcomessubmitted photo from the talented photographers in N ortheast Oregon Whetherthey havephotos for the Outdoors section, the newssection or the Facebook page, readers are always encouraged to share their best photos with us. The Grande Ronde Valley is filled with beautiful scenery, best captured through a lens. Edith Lowe photo
Outside of Imbler, this herd of elk charging across Highway 82 was captured by Edith Lowe.
e
r
'rl',
1'
M fu u Chuck Monpas photo
The snowcat on a return trip near Silver Creek Road, seven miles from Sumpter, plows through more than 40 inches of snow.
Lois Delcurto photo
This herd of Big Horn sheep winters in Baker County. There are eight rams in this group as the herd was coming down for water.
Thankxfo+gAr anothvr grvatyvarf -Tha~k, Center fur Human Develu men Inc
r edb a t d esign
ountain CDmmunity
BANK 10rr.7RTl
orkS Bicycles
+ $.-
III II)
KCmo -» 9 dlhSILSRas A
/jgg~
T s A s b a st
N
Q UTFlrurER U4
, „ , „ , enraa rarnn
"
VMPQVA RU . A H . IC
„„„' ®) RgdCross
Allstate Insurance OTEC Blue Mountain Acupuncture John Howard Real Estate Blue Mountain Auto Parts M e r lyn's Catering Mountain Valley Therapy EONI Emily Kinney The Potter's Gift House & Gallery
REAL ESTATE TEAM
• 0
•
• 0
•
• 0
•
100 — THE OBSERVER
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
This photograph was one of four Chief Joseph Days photos found in an envelope postmarked 1949. The Chevron Station in the background helps place the spot where the photo was taken.
Ayoung girl watches a parade of elephants and circus performers marching up Fourth Street in La Grande. Other photos in this set are labeled as being taken in 1920.
- k
Bob Bull collection
Bob Bull collection
I
-
, •
.
" 'cl'.-" Q>~
I
e
A
4I e
This barbershop, known as the Fitzgerald Barbershop, was located at 215 Fir Street in La Grande. According to the city directories, the barbers are John and William Fitzgerald, but there is no wayto identify each barber. The photo was taken in 1920 and was originally in the Richard A. Hermens and John E.Turner Collection.
1V1Il Bob Bull collection
From Union County to Wallowa County,from the City of Cove to Joseph, the history ofEastern Oregon's small towns root us the present day Family owned .busine-ssesand events that have been celebrated fordecades,therearesomany thingsto respect and admire about the past residents o four hometowns
/F
)
k(
Bob Bull collection
This photograph ofsnow on Adams Avenue was taken sometime in 1927 or 1928. The view is looking slightly northwest toward Glass Drugs, which is now Red Cross Drugstore. The newly built La Grande Hotel can be seen at the end of the street.
s 'ltt
el"
rk I
Bob Bull collection
The Lower Cove School was located on Market Lane just west of the Lower Cove Road. There is a marker indicating the location. The photo was taken in 1934. Bob Bull collection
This old postcard picture, labeled Elgin shows sheep being unloaded.The stamp box on the back of the postcard indicates the picture was taken 19071909.
lP(I~ iplp •
,fi
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
F AR M E R S
•
IP •
•
•
' •
•
e•
I NSU R A N C E 0
• 0
•
• 0
•
o
oo
• 0
•
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
THE OBSERVER — 110
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
On July3, 1984, the people of La Grande got to see the OlympicTorch as it passed through town on its way to the Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.
esha
l(/
.a-- .
t
'1'$
rj
t
'. t '-il r .~
~
StjtsttEtee
Adams Avenue was reconstructed with new base rock in 1985. The construction lasted possibly until 1986. The original photograph came from the collection of Bob &. Grace Butler
4g,
Bob Bull collectian
Bob Bull collectian
(~ pggg[pg,4L
'
ea r
Bob Bull collection
The past merges with the present in a photoshop composition from two photos of Adams Avenue, one taken in 1954 and one taken this year. Bob Bull collection
Northeast Oregon is rich with history. Thegenerationsoffamilieswhowere born and raised here, and raisefamilies of their own, are plentiful One of the most. popular items on The Observer's Facebook page is the Throwback Thursdays, which provides historical photographs ofdecades past bringing bac— k many memories for some.
The hotel business was not what it was in the early days and it was decided to make apartments and offices out of the smaller Sacajawea Hotel rooms. The building was too well built and structurally it was not feasible to do this — so it was torn down in June 1970.
I
.g
Bab Bull collectian
4,
i ~ t
•
•
•
e
•
•
Bob Bull Collection
On November 29,1974, the La Grande High School football team defeated Corvallis 26 to 7 to win the State AAA Championship at Civic Stadium in Portland. This photograph was taken from the 1975 Mimir.
Bab Bull collectian
The old Grande Ronde Hospital was burned down in 1969 in firefighting drills.
•
matter a tp r oblems you are deali ng wi th, we ant to help you find a reason to keep
,~irrgs
'
NF6:6
l ving. By calling 1-800-273- TALK(8255) you'll e n n e cted to a skilled, trained counselor at a crisis center in your area, anytime 24/7. Center for Human Develo ment lnc. CHD ... where our Mission is working for healthy communities
•000
P e fk
,-
2301 Cove Ave. • 541-962-8800 Need more information? Visit www.chdinc.org
•000
t
I
,~ j
•000
12D —THE OBSERVER
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
<gsigs
yeei,bP,
ages ere8 ~ 7 k ' grt<<ssrd tom q<ss Sotsr Y h,ts 1omti
"„"""memaCem
"'"",,...,,.- NNI w
$%Y<91NO<I o"""
Fp'I'Ipw "
•
Eoupe' e
~aqgl ygg$
~ge~y
eE'De[0
1
glSsjOI
+>(0SIOg
I
ms+
~ phystca1 ,~wPy eap~y~ C ~ ~ sptae ge CN<1ea E Y<apE Cbedse~ ep w,otdd"
< E Geshea
opegp<t
~A1a
eohele
0 @nprupne Fssw bss recewed derdty Pr dd ess caroe» <undtng W . Cotmty due 'm<trmn,
tcoW. And„~ GYYW ~med""
, ui preess relo m py <wmrdng G sbowtl" 0 sui'es 0 mep , wtobe ~r m od Wr <or<n
Police FOREST HEALTH could face change NQRNNIdtr QRIQQN
Subscribers New subscribers get access to the pages of their Observer onlineon a computer, tablet or phone — included in the price of their subscription,
dme Soho
,is ded
• I S»I I ,
d ds t m
d ~
ty
Mt h M h I I 5
QN d
Nm
Q h ys
p
th d d b i.
rs <th~ b
p iuthghy . ~ adoidm~
doteis ~Y a tas si SPPIA ~stot
mpsm'e,uiestromb g Nt ytheres ~ aho<
onbne
hwdesset e
wage
G'tdde o< wom n
themunY' antzersot one ddworg protpw' „t oto <dd<"
do
Y <I<
I dI I
endphy"
~
51559 c
sprotp ctub gre n s-s' ~ donsSce Sea
~ besmo
S<p<y. % cmce." pa«erd
rsws o< hwcuw Y' enbactcsno «pep<age
sststdimiostri ot QOIRriorttstle
d d tu d
~ N~
s
s F
'uithegr~alg,satd 'h orgwumr~mtweenhg m reisshnh ~h tdez
0
8
dwddd
ei N
IN
FOREST HEAL .=-.'.:==
~o wor tnpebm~ mber ConeNW' ~ be
d
B ll
coNsEgvATIQNIsri u ccEgsTEAM
moocdeehd neins
e~ l dus « edba ll, s 9 ach Nlelinda a t o urnamemblned class dun d tootbat
eglnh9'
wobeuty des *We<oundwem dmore
i
I OllSER
lelo S~ h < . Wgnris Mestmggmg eo<tm soide wsy 'Io s SOI memlll btggesttssm' <QWes budne~s ~mt topa Ws sb ' ms SSgroW ' \'or m™ Wdmth moving<oiw
„.. Q~
I
prognm sctwot Atud Y A<ter d to get
E-Edition Ror
pnthe« b
c . Smol gder mnw snd an In wtdPIOSIS ~ mtonom mncec ~h ersss *'lhere w', uwly that
, dpoordte" bmhtdmu<w ~ tty s s end uhsmow brsmmmwd b ddybetnwor ~~ o n a t withmtres midez 5eromwui,
pr h<synw ~meaonrie 1mpr oncototo . Aisnot.the '"
I poge 5 '<<o»itsb m Sec .d mcaroer mdesm dw ~,.Addtbonnd mureiW ' idence,d p<agenb l g Ieos h~eo5'< ' herInci ddfere "'
" "" 9 m
' .
denteoieot soee edbathac Grandelpiddle g idd t echool e etu g agam ehetbail,atba ddatc tes dutin teamma ll, somar and ba„N at'I te pedong ottoo ba ahetnoon
gQ( bae
o " . Turoi oreoswi unry.<hele'IdmNS t ed jn lhe CO F . In <d her mo™ ' . <titdty. ~mm sc ' . <hereote '<l d I;sicolinoc
Wfoundwe
change
pFII GY<
his.
®~qgi04+®
aOOIea~on
h
Iiteaeo®>ao Chudt pndM
whhhpwh bng-swm
Il i
'C
on
,dtwd-
1NNEIE@E0%ENEE
downsue
< mpsoty
Ilg!i I i
Q
Go Northeast Oregon Mobile Ayy
II
Wagowa , ~ ocdcespep d mmrete tdWN<oda nim which oddns<Icauontothesta o<the~@d ' dp'itcl Com, smag dpgtchComp~ ' stet tigh ti hasWidt d~'Soen AmoCiam Amodate 5 thegtstnd ,nhdrawr HpUE <h ' whb ' water nrht SP hsde e SA a ~d o st wo '" NY<hcy 0s call the pt
id
I
<
Ii
Il I
Il
Turn by turn directions to all of Northeast Oregon's attractions and entertainment, including places to eat, stay, play and shop, Events, deals, weather and breaking news all delivered to your phone or tablet,
d
css0 g+V itd
* The Observer produced 150 editions with over 0,000 pages delivered
to subscribers, dealers and racks each Monday, Wednesday and Friday and online via our E-editions!
* LaGrandeobserver.com and GoNortheastoregon.com delivered local news and event information to over 515,000 unique users in nearly THREE MILLION page views! * Special publications included a Health and Wellness Directory, Cold Cases, three Agri-Business Reviews, Fall and Spring Home and Garden, Active Families, Kick-off 15, Gift Giving Guide and more. * Northeast Oregon Extra and shopper inserts were delivered every Wednesday to non-subscribers in Union, Baker and Wallowa Counties. * The Observer and Go Magazine were proud community partners and
continued to sponsor and volunteer hours, advertising and publicity to countless local events and organizations.
The Observer's employees are proud to work and live in Union & Wallowa Counties and to support our community through cash, in-kind donations, and volunteer hours to promote important activities in our communities. I
•000
I
•000
•000
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
THE OBSERVER — 130
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
TOP STATE STORIES AND PHOTOS OFTHEYEAR Gov. John Kitzhaber, middle, is sworn in for an unprecedented fourth term by Senior Judge Paul J. De Muniz in Salem on Jan. 12. Standing next to Kitzhaber is his fiance, Cylvia Hayes, who would become a major player in the scandal that unfolded this year.
Oregon Secretary of State Kate Brown is sworn in as governor by Oregon Chief Justice Thomas A. Balmer in Salem on Feb. 18. John Kitzhaber announced he would step down amid allegations his fiancee used her relationship with him to enrich herself. AP photo
AP photo
AP photo
Gov. Kate Brown signs a bill expanding access to contraception during a ceremony at the state Capitol in Salem June 11. The bill makes Oregon the first state to require insurers to pay for up to 12 months of birth control at a time.
AP photos
Thestateentered2015 with onegovernorand begins2016 with another— and therewasnoelectionin 2015.Gov. John Kitzhaber stepped down amid a scandal early thisyear, paving the wayforSecretary ofStateKateBrown tobecome governor Other top stories o fth.eyearinclude the legalization ofmarjiuana, the tragic shooting at Umpqua Community College in October and the contentious legislative session. Io, , I11
f
'.~
kkll@ tc ~
IWt t t « 'oL .
f-
>Io«
.
«
AP photo
In this June 26 photo, Bear Westerlind, an employee at the medical marijuana dispensary Kaya Shack, displays different types of marijuana flowers sold at the shop in Portland. Possession of recreational pot became legal in Oregon on July1.
„';"'.".,'.:.«««„
Chul ch gr oup
Snyder Hall AP photo
The Senate applauds July 6 at the state Capitol in Salem. Among controversial laws passed was one that was particularly disliked in Eastern Oregon that requires background checks for private sales of firearms.
.g '4
College on Oct. 4 in AP photo Roseburg.
I
«
• g
•
•
4
• A
•
2216 Adams Ave., La Grande, OR 97850
(541) 963-5851 Mon — Fri 9am — 6pm• Sat 10am — Spm• Closed Sunday
•000
•000
•000
140 — THE OBSERVER
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
2015: THE ASSOCIATED PRESS'TOP PHOTOS OF THEYEAR Cuban President Raul Castro, left, and U.S. President Barack Obama meet at the Summit of the Americas in Panama City, Panama, in April. Both publicly say they're delighted after the end to more than 50 years of official hostility between the countries.
Democratic presidentiaI candidate Hillary Rodham Clinton flexes her muscles with Miss Teen New Hampshire Allie Knault, center, and Miss New Hampshire Holly Blanchard, during a Fourth of July parade in Gorham, New Hampshire AP photo
AP phato
AP photo
DonaldTrump, left, and Jeb Bush, right, both speak asTed Cruz looks on during the CNN Republican presidential debate at theVenetian Hotel &. Casino on Dec. 15.
The Associated Press photos
From listeria outbreaks in Blue Bell ice cream to devastating wildfires across the West,2015 was onefor the books A broad US. presidential campaign field kept things interesting west oftheAtlantic Overseas, th.ough, Europe has been rocked by a violent surge by the Islamic State, sending thousands forefugees fleeing and French residents reeling after multiple attacksin Paris.
' a'e
AP photo
Firefighting resources,which are in increased demand, include 20-person hotshot or hand crews, air tankers, helicopters and two- and three-person engine crews who often respond when fires first break out. A
.E AP phato
c
A hand crew marches as smoke billows in the distance behind them in this September photo. Western states were barraged this summer with a busy fire season, stretching resources thin across the country.
~j
AP phato
JeremyWhittaker, left, and Shane Smith work at the hay collection site in John Day. In addition to rangeland lost, ranchers say millions of dollars'worth of hay have gone up in flames.
~j Quality Auto Body
When You Want It Done Right! 1606 Cove Ave, La Grande (541) 963-7QQ2shawsautobody. o cm •000
•000
•000
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
THE OBSERVER — 150
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
2015: THE ASSOCIATED PRESS'TOP PHOTOS OF THEYEAR 'e L
Syrian refugees wait near the border railway station in northern Greece, in order to be allowed by the Macedonian police to cross the border from Greece to Macedonia Aug. 25. Greece has been overwhelmed this year by record numbers of migrants.
Syrian refugees walk into Turkey after breaking the border fence and crossing from Syria in Akcakale, Sanliurfa province, southeasternTurkey on June14.The mass displacement of Syrians comes as Kurdish fighters and Islamic extremists clashed inTal Abyad. AP phato
AP phato
AP photo
A woman has taped her mouth displaying the word "freedom" on the tape as she gathers with several thousand people in solidarity with victims of two terrorist attacks in Paris, one at the office of weekly newspaper Charlie Hebdo and another at a kosher market, in front of the Brandenburg Gate near the French embassy in Berlin, on Jan. 11. France was targeted for attacks throughout the year, with a major series of attacks taking place in late November, putting the nation, and world, on edge about Islamic State fears.
AP phato
A SpaceX Falcon9rocketblasts offthe launch pad on Wednesday carrying the NOAA's Deep Space Climate Observatory spacecraft that will orbit between Earth and the sun, providing advanced warning of extreme emissions from the sun that can effect power grids and satellites close to earth.
Bl,"JE BjEI.I::=':= KCRIE~ .=";::.FrenchVanilla
:. BLUE B : IQECRE Fn-'nchVanilla e ""'- ' *
h( \
g+ IIlKILjL;:-"'
r-"-"~
' I~UjE BjEL C~ "renchyaniiia
AP phato
An honor guard from the South Carolina Highway patrol removes the Confederate battle flag from the Capitol grounds in Columbia, S.C., ending its 54-year presence there, on July 10.
AP phato
Blue Bell ice cream rests on a grocery store shelf in Kansas. The Justice Department hasn't said whether the government plans to pursue charges against Texas-based Blue Bell, which recalled all its products this year after listeria in the company's ice cream was linked to illnesses and three deaths.
We've donated over '13,000 to the communities that we serve.
r '
•
'k
Union County Chamber of Commerce La Grande Main Street VFW Post 2029 Eastern Oregon Film Festival La Grande Farmers Market Soroptimist International of La Grande Lions Club and Lions Golf Tournament United Way and United Way Tradition Golf Tournament Eastern Oregon Livestock Show Liberty Theatre Foundation
Grande Ronde Hospital Foundation Amateur Golf Tournament Ducks Unlimited Union County Little League Imbler Education Foundation Celtic Society of Eastern Oregon Union County Annual Crop Tour Oregon Mountain C. Hailey Durrant La Grande Slam10. Art Center © Old Liberty Theatre Eastern Oregon Arts
3 Rivers Race Cabela's Friends of La Grande Union Market Union County Timb. Celebrate La Grande Blue Mountain Cou. Wallowa County Fa. UCSCC Imbler HS Yearbook Year Book Elgin Health District
Because you've so generously supported US, we've been ~LtI-;;. a b l e to generously give back to our community. • 0
•
• 0
•
• 0
•
16D —THE OBSERVER
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS' TOP 10 NATIONAL STORIES OF THEYEAR
AP poll: Islamic State conflict voted top news story of 2015 By David Crary AP Natronalwnter
NEWYORK — The far-flung attacks daimed by Islamic State militants and the intensifying global etfort to crush them added up to a grim, yippingyearlong saga that was voted the top news storyof 2015, according to TheAssociated Press' annual poll of US. editors and news directors. The No. 2 story was the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling that led to legalization of same-sex marriage in all 50 states. Bu tseveralofthe other stories among the Top 10 reflected the impact of the i Islamic State, while another group of major storiesrelated to theseriesofm assshootings in the United States. Among the 100 voters castingballots,first-place votes were spread among 17 different stories. The Islamic State entry received 37 firstplace votes and same-sex marriage 13. The No. 3 story AP photo — the deadly attacks in Paris Shiite militiamen arrive in Khalidiya to support Sunni tribal fighters and local policemen as they defend their city against Islamic State group miliin January and Novembertants 60 miles west of Baghdad, Iraq, in this May photo. received14 first-placevotes. Ayear ago, the top storyin out to an early APs poll was the police killirgs lead in the polls of unarmed blacks in Ferguand remaining there despite a son, Missouri, and elsewhere — and the investigations and series of polarizing statements. He helped atprotests that ensued. In this year's poll, a similar entry, with tractrecord audiencesforthe m ore inst ancesofblacks dying GOPs televised debates. In is in encounters with police, the Democratic race, Bernie placed fifth. Sanders surprised many with The first AP top-stories a strong challenge of Hillary Clinton, but she remained the poll was conducted in 1936, when editors chose the solid fiont-runner. abdication of Britain's King Climate change focus of Edward VIII. international discussion Here are 2015's top 10 stories, in order: Negotiators fiom nearly 200 countries reached a first-of-its Focuson Islamic State kind agreement intensifies in Paris on curbing greenhouse A multinational coalition intensified ground and air gas emissions. Many questions attacksagainst Islamic State remain over enforcement and militants implementation of the accord. AP photo in Iraq and But elated supporters hailed Victims of a shooting attack lie on the pavement outside La Belle Equipe restaurant in Paris Nov. 13. Attacks in Paris Syria, including began just a few weeks after 2015 began. it as a critical step toward expanded roles for Western averting thegrim scenarioof European countries worried unchecked global warming. Hebdo, and later attacked a about IS-backed terrorism. Charleston church For its part, IS sought to Jewish market, shooting raises concerns demonstrate an expansive gunning down reachby itsoperativesand 17 people in A Bible study session TEACHER all. Nov.13 brought a far s y . t' supporters, claiming to have at the Emanuel Alrican APRPECIATION (; carriedout orinspired the Methodist Episcopal Church deadlier onslaught: Eight bombing of a Russian airliner, Islamic State militants killed WEEK in Charleston, attacks in Beirut and Paris, 130 people in coordinated asMAY 4TH-8TH South Caroand the deadly shooting in saults around Paris. Targets lina, suddenly San Bernardino, California. included restaurants, bars turned into and an indoor rock concert. carnage when Gay marri age becomes a whitegunman opened fi re, legal nationwide Mass shootings across i> killing nine blacks, including s the UnitedStates Fifteen years after Verthe pastor. The alleged killer's mont pioneered civil unions affmity for the Confederate Throughout the year, mass for same-sex lag sparked debate over the f shootings brought grief to communities role of Civil War symbols in couples, the Sutoday's South. In less than a preme Court isacross the U.S. month,the flagw asremoved sued a ruling in and deepened fiustration over from the South Carolina June enabling them to marry in all 50 states. the failureto State House grounds. Gay-rights activists heralded curtail them. There were 14 AP phato Europe's migrant crisis victims in San Bernardino. it as their movement's bigConyers Police keep watch in front of Conyers Middle School earlier this year after a highli ghted by deaths gest breakthrough, but there Nine blacks were killed by a shot was fired inside the school in Conyers, Georgia. were flashes of disapproval. A white gunman at a CharlesFleeing war and hardship, tions of policing practices. inflamed an alreadyintense more than 1million migrmts county clerk in Kentucky, Kim ton, South Carolina, church; a out after Davis, spent a few days in jail professorand eightstudents the death of debateoverwhether to accomand r~ Terrorism concerns after refusing to issue marFreddie Gray, flooded into died at an Oregon community m odate refugeesfiom Syria, increase in the U.S. riage licenses to gay couples college. In Chattanooga, four and prompted Republican Europe dura black man in her jurisdiction. Marines and a sailor were ing the year, loadedinto Fears about terrorism in presidential fiont-runner Donkilled by a Kuwaiti-born engi- a van by police officers. In ald Trump to call for a ban on the US. surged after a maroverwhelming Paris attacks —from ried couple in Muslims coming to the US. national border guanS and neer; three people, including a Chicago, Tulsa and North 3anuary to November Charleston, South Carolina, Californiapoliceman, were shot dead at reception facilities. Hundreds fatal police shootings ofblack The first attack came just a a Planned Parenthood clinic le des cribed by Presidential campaign are believed to have drowned; field bring surprises week into the new year. Two in Colorado. men prompted resignations investigators 71others were found dead in brothers who called themand criminal charges. The inas radicalized A large and varied field of an abandoned truckinAustria. Black deaths in cidents gave fuel to the Black Muslims — carried out the selvesmembers ofal-Qaida Republicans launched bids for The 28-nation European Union encounters with police Lives Matter campaign, and a ttackin San Be~ struggled to come up with an barged into the offices of the o th a t the presidency, with billionsatiric newspaper Charlie killed 14people. The rampage aire Donald Trump moving effect ive,unifi edresponse. In Baltimore, riots broke promptedseveralinvestiga-
g
~D ttL ;,.;-:";.;;.[Ko lWRINIDtDtQ CMC
®
'ee ra e am( Family has the strongest influence on a child's choices when it comes to risky behaviors, includ ing substance use. Talk to your k i ds! Foster strong fam il y co n n ecti on s!
®~® • 0
•
• 0
•
Union County Safe Communities Coalition 541-963-1068 • 0
•
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
THE OBSERVER — 170
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
JANUARY 3an. 5 Jack Howard will be sworn in by telephone today after he was seriously injured in a sledding accident New Year's Day. Howard was transported by Life Flight late New Year's Day toLegacy Emmanuel Hospital in Portland for a number of facial injuries. He underwent surgery Jan. 2 and is recovering. OC CD
Shelter From the Storm is ready to reopen for business. The nonprofit opened this morning at 10901 Island Ave. after a two-week whirlwind ofpreparing the buildingfor the move. Volunteers — kom the general community and contracting communitydonated hours of work at the old center and new location. Walls were put up and doors kom the old location were moved. Employment is up, unemployment claims are down, and the economy is on track to keep growing faster than average, according to a UniversityofOregon report. Oregon employers added more jobs in November than any other month since records began in 1990. And theylaid offfewerpeople,too. Oregon-based applications for unemployment insurance fell to their lowest level in 21 years.
rC
Jack Howard / submitted photo
Union County Commissioner-Elect Jack Howard is sworn in via telephone Jan. 5. Howard suffered a number of facial injuries in a NewYear's Day sledding accident.
Cherise Kaechele/TheObserver
Carol Lauritzen andTeresa Brain volunteered to help the Shelter From the Storm move into their new location in January. The nonprofit opened Jan. 5 at 10901 Island Ave. after a two-week whirlwind of preparing the building for the move. Pokorney will attend his last meeting as mayor of La Grande. Once old business is taken care of, Mayor-Elect Steve Clements will take control of the meeting.
United Van Lines, Oregon is the top moving destination in the nation. The report, "United Van Lines'38th Annual National Movers Study," showed that Oregon was the top migration objective during 2014,with 66percentofm oves to and kom the state labeled as incoming, a 5percentboost ofinbound moves compared to 2013.
Charlie Mitchell arrived in La Grandein October 2008 after the city council decided 3an. 17 to hire someone to workon A dozen people were economic development. injured, some of them seriA Great Recession, many ously, in a massive 26-vehicle projects and millions of dollars ininvestment later, Mitchellis pileup that closed Interstate 84 for the day. about to saygood-bye. Mitchell 3an. 6 Black ice, steep terrain and has been named the new community and economic developThe Oregon Health Aupoor visibility are likely to thority released data showing blamefortheseriesofcrashes ment director for the Oregon La Grande and other areas early Saturday 33 miles Cascades West Council of are at high risk for dangersoutheast of Baker City. Governments, basedinAlbany. Twelve people were He is set to start the job in late ous radon levels. The state Tim Mussoe/TheObserver isurging residents across transportedto the emerFebruary. The OCWCOGis Officers prepare to enter a room at the Orchard Motel in January where a suicidal Oregon to test their homes man had barricaded himself. Police say the man shot himself at10:53 a.m. Police then gency department at Saint avoluntaryassociation of20 this month during Radon Alphonsus Medical Center cities, three counties, the Conentered to attempt life-saving measures, but the man was deceased. Action Month. in Baker City for injuries, ac- federated Tribes of the Siletz It's the first pack in Weston the corner of Second Street start to his second stint in cording to hospital officials. Of Indians and a port district that 3an. 7 ern Oregon and the ninth in and H Avenue around 11:20 helps communities collaborate, the governor's office, Kitzhathose, four were sent to other ber hit setbacks with the hospitals forfurthertreatUnion County is in the pre- the state since wolves kom a.m. according to areleasekom The officers had gained planning stages of purchasing Idaho started swimming the troubled Cover Oregon health ment. One person is in critical OCWCOG. There Mitchell will Snake River in the 1990s. entry into the residence, but insurance exchange and condition, although none of a county-wide emergency lead OCWCOG's community notification system. the cl ient,Trevor Frizzel,25, revelations about his fiancee's the injuries is believed to be and economic development 3an. 8 Union County CommisLa Grande, barricaded himlife-threatening. personal life and business p~ . sioners approved going forself in a room of the house. arrangements. A girl who has been in the 3an. 23 Unsure if Frizzel had any When he gives the inauA La Grande woman is ward with writing a contract saddle since she was born, for the notification system Destiny Barneyis the perfect weapons, the officers called lookingforanswers afterher gural address today, he11lay An incident at the Orchard after J.B. Brock, emergency Miss Junior Rodeo Oregon for backup. Motel turned tragic when a out a vision for the next four husband sustained injuries services manager forthe man took his own life after queen for 2015. years and try to turn the outside a bar. Her mother, Vixen Radford, 3an. 9 corner. It won't be easy. In the Joanna Keagle says her calling 911. county, presented the new said Barney was on horseThe incident began before 5 system, which is becoming Imbler High School sopho- coming months, a state ethics husband, Jerry, sustained a increasingly more popular more Gabriel Tritchka does commission could rule on number of injuries Saturday a.m.Friday when theout-ofback as an infant and sitting in the saddle by the age of 2. not know where he will be a whether Kitzhaber's fiancee, nightin what could have been town man called 911 soundas technology becomes more readily available. When she was just 5 years ing despondent and saying year kom now, but this much Cylvia Hayes, broke the law an assault outside Bud Jackis certain — he will not be in with her business arrangeson's. Joanna Keagle said she he was considering suicide. old, she was named Miss didn't witness what happened La Grande Police Chief Brian As Oregon works to meet the United States. ments. Rodeo Oregon Sweetheart, new federal rules meant to and living in the limelight has Tritchka has been selected after her husband was told to Harvey said dispatchers and expand access to child care A continuing funding officers lost contact with the become customary. by the Rotary Club of leave the bar but then found and improve its educational La Grande to be a member of shortfall may mean that Jerry dripping with blood. man when his phone battery High school students in many Union and Baker quality, the Oregon Secretary the Rotary Youth Exchange died. He later called back. long-term program in 2015of State's office and others Eastern Oregon will soon county television viewers will 3an. 18 3an. 26 are raising concerns that 16. This means he will spend find themselves in the dark in have a chance to take online US. Rep. GregWalden is the families who most need the 2015-16 school year confident about the direction classes kom Eastern Oregon about three years. La Grande City CouncilUniversit y ata considerable The Blue Mountain Trans- of the 114th Congress. ors are feeling the financial stable and affordable child attending school in another cWe got right after it," he carecould lose itasa resultof savings. country while living with host lator District, which carries pinch. Still, some expressed families. those same rules. Eastern is launching a about eight stations, is on the told attendees of a town hall in an interest in finding a way The rules are partofthe La Grande. to fund another police officer program that will allow high verge of falling into a death recently reauthorized federal spiral because many people school students to take some 3an. 12 Walden said that normally at the council'sretreat. Child Care and Development onlineclassesfor $60 a credit An 18-year-old was the House of Representatives who get their TV reception 3an. 29 Block GrantAct, which helps hour, $140 less than the $200 arraigned after he and a kom it are not paying the waits for the president to fund child caresubsidiesfor 17-year-old male juvenile per credit hour tuition all $100 annual fee they are aspresent a budget to Congress Imbler High School and lower-income families. Under other online students pay were arrested Jan. 12. Police sessed, said Tim Wallender, a beforeitbeginsseriouslywork- Wallowa High School officials the law, states participating believe the two La Grande member of the BMTD board. ing on legislation. Things have learnedthat theirschoolsare at the La Grande-based in the subsidy program must university. in elite company. teensareresponsiblefor 18 been differentin the early commercial break-ins around 3an. 14 The Oregon Department of satisf y federalrequirements. days of the 114th Congress, La Grande High School, La Grande late last year. It seemed only fitting Walden said at a La Grande Education released statistics Oregon's famous wandering La Grande Middle School and Justin Villastrigo, the older town hall. He noted thatin the showing Imbler and Wallowa on New Year's Eve that Central Elementary School of the two, was arraigned of Mayor Dan Pokorney be the first two weeks of the Congres- are two of only 12 public high wolf, OR-7, is now officially the leader ofhis own pack. had a lock out for about 20 sional session, which started 18 counts of second-degree persontolightup"2015" as schools in Oregon that had minutes today because of a burglary and one count of La Grande's own New York State and federal wildlife Jan. 6, the House has already perfect graduation ratesin agencies said they have nearby police incident. first-degree theft. City-style ball dropped at 2013-14. passedatleastfourpiecesof "It is quite an accomplishdesignated OR-7, his mate La Grande Police Lt. Derick midnight. significant legislation, which and their pups the Rogue ment. It is real exciting," Reddington said parole and Gov. John Kitzhaber enters Not only did he usher in a have been sent to the Senate. his fourth term with the dark new year for the community, said Mitch Frye, a physical Pack, for their location in the probation officers were at3an. 21 tempting to take one of their Rogue River drainage in the clouds ofhis third lingering. but he also opened a new education and health teacher clients into custody at a home After a largely successful CascadeseastofM edford. chapter for himself. According to a report kom at Wallowa High School.
UNION WALLOWA BAKER FEDERAL
ew,
CREDIT UNION Werr, rterepr r rrru!
'
The better place to borrow. - Great Loan Rates - Free Checking - Fixed Rate Mastercards - ATM - Certificates of Deposit - Free Online Banking and Bill Pay Membership isOPENto Anyonewholives or worksin Union, Wallowa, or BakerCounties!
p r
r
tXicr
3 Depot Street, La Grande • 541-963-3053 • 0
•
• 0
•
LENDER
• 0
•
180 — THE OBSERVER
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
FEBRUARY Feb. 2 Snowpack is looking dismal for much of the state. For Eastern Oregon, the "normal" has become less than what it really should be, but conditions may improve. A recent video by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service said Western and Central Oregon has not seen a lot of snow accumulation this year. Accordingto state biologists, Eastern Oregon wolf numbers are healthy enough tostarttheprocessof removing their endangered status. The Wallowa County commissioners supported the state's effort with a resolution. The resolution, passed unanimously by Susan Roberts, Mike Hayward and Paul Castilleja, urges the state to take immediate stepstodelistgray wolves in Oregon. W olves are protected by the federal government west ofhighways 395 and 95, but in Northeastern Oregon where wolves are most highly concentrated, they are managed by the state.
Cherise Kaechele/The Observer
ou,
'
Union's Umpqua Bank Manager Ryan Hildebrandt addresses a group of customers on the bank's reduced hours Feb. 17. The community was concerned that the change signaled the closing of the bank.
Tim Mustoe/The Observer
Cade Cunningham and Owen Cunningham play in the snow at the ski resort near Spout Springs in February. The resort is closed, with no activity because of the lack of snow this winter.
Feb. 16 A recent bill introduced to legislators suggests raising Oregon's minimum wage
methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine, reckless burning and reckless endangering. May was indicted by a grand jury on the same charges.
Feb. 21
"Marcy's Habitat for Humanity House of many from $9.25 to $15 an hourwas turned over toits a feat many small businesses colors" Feb. 3 believe would put them out of new owners with a room full Northeast Oregon business. of family, friends and those residents wanting to earn a Rep. Peter Buckley, D-Ash- who helped build the home. Marcy Spry and her fiance, master's in business adminland, proposed the increase istration may need to look no be phased in. This increase, Scott Roshon, along with further than their computer if passed, would put Oregon's their six children officially regy' ai • minimum wage far higher screens. ceived the keys to their new t than any other state in the home from Union County Eastern Oregon University announced this week that Habitat for Humanity Presicountry. Washington, D.C., the university will launch an currently at $9.50 per hour, dent Lonnie Lester. online-only MBA program will be increasing its minithis fall with a 20-student mum hourly wage to $11.50 A new 8,000-square-foot cohort. health clinic is in the works July 1, 2016, according to The current MBA profor Elgin, and the community the National Conference of gram is offered on campus State Legislatures' website. has somepoliticalbackersto in La Grande and onsite in Washington state, which has help fight for it. Tim Mustoe/The Observer Gresham, Hermiston and The Elgin Health District A vote is taken during the first meeting of EOU's board of trustees Feb. 12. The board the second highest minimum Ontario. helda meet and greetfor will have 15 members, 14 of whom have already been appointed by Gov. John Kitzha- wage in the country, is at Oregon state Sen. Bill Hansell ber and confirmed by the state Senate. $9.47, while Idaho is one of Feb. 4 the lowest in the country and state Rep. Greg Barreto recall petition. around the three forests and at $7.25. at Elgin's Train Depot. BarUnion County commisJune 7, 2020, by which time Nine other states sioners voted unanimously to he will have served a little After simmering for 11-county region. retain that hourly wage. reto and Hansell both said begin delisting the gray wolf more than 28 years in prison. months, influence-peddling they want to help get Elgin a Feb. 12 Feb. 17 from the county's endangered Porter was convicted in allegations boiled over on new health clinic. the April 8, 1992, killing of Kitzhaber last week, when Elgin Health District species list at their meeting. It wasa red-letter day in Union's only bank has A public hearing was 39-year-old John Day police an editorial by The OregoDirector Jared Rogers, an Eastern Oregon University's decided to reduce its hours held requesting testimony Officer Frank Ward, who was nian newspaper calling for nearly 86-year history. organizerofthe event,said starting next month, which regarding taking the wolf off respondingto a domestic his resignation shined a The university's new inhas many in the community the town's current health the endangered specieslist violence call at the John Day national spotlight on the worriedit'sa foreshadowing clinic has grown so much stituti onal board met forthe afterseven breeding pairs controversy. first time to discuss bylaws they need the new faclhty. house shared by Porter and to its eventual closure. Union's Umpqua Bank were confirmed in Northeast his wife. and begin planning how to Feb. 11 Feb. 25 Oregon recently. lead Eastern once it gains Manager Ryan Hildebrandt Feb. 9 'The number ofbreeding The efforts of Eastern governing authority. said that's definitely not the Oregon's documented wolf case — and the rumors circu- population in 2014 was 77 pairs has met the standard," A grievance has been filed Oregon University Interim No bugles or drums against the Cove School President Jay Kenton to get said Commissioner Mark sounded, still the magnitude lating in the small town were wolves, a 20 percent increase Davidson. Board and the school disa child care center estabof the moment was not lost from the previous year. addressedin a m eeting. "I'm here to quell the rutrict's administrators. lished on or near campus on the 14 board members In the state's annual For the first time since The grievance, which m ay receive a bigboostfrom report, nine packs were present. mors, the bank is not closing. "This is an opportunity to charges that the school the Kids Club program of We're making basic business documented, eight of which 2011, members of the La Grande City Council La Grande. really shape the future of the decisions to make ithe bank) m et the criteria asbreeding boardviolated the teachers' will be paid more than $1 a contract when handling a The leaders of Kids Club, university. The year to come work bett er,"Hildebrandtsaid. pairs, an essential measuremonth. a child care program run by will be a very exciting advenment used to show wolves parent complaint against At the height of the Community Connection of ture for all of us. The outcome Feb. 18 are recovering. a teacher, was filed in late will be better for EOU," said Great Recession, the council January by the Cove Educa- Northeast Oregon and one Oregon's incoming govFeb. 27 tion Association, which is the of the largest in La Grande, David Nelson, who was ernor, Kate Brown, faces a votedtoreduce itspay to $1 a month. During the meeting, Cove School District's teach- have expressed aninterestin named the board's chairman monumental challenge as The La Grande School ers union. teaming up with Eastern to during the meeting. District has received a $4.1 councilors said the economy she takesthereinsofa state is rebounding, signaling it's The grievance states that run a child care center. government mired in scandal million boost. Feb. 14 time the pay be reinstated. with less than a week's notice It is a bonus that has La the schoolboard violated the The mayor will receive $90 a teachers' collective bargainIn a continuing attempt to and with a special election It wasa perfectday for a Grande School District offimonth while the other coun- ing agreement at a Dec. 18 walk with warmer temalready looming. cials breathing a sigh of relief poll the community on how cilors get$70,lesspersonal America's first openly And for good reason. board meeting. The board best to involve the public in peratures and blue sky, a met with a parent in executhe Blue Mountain Forest bisexual governor was sworn The boost means that deductions. perfect day for the seventh annualWalk forWarmth, tivesession attheme eting to Plan Revision, the Forest in, becoming Oregon's 38th despite unanticipated cost Feb. 5 a fundraiser that aims to increases, none of the maindiscussa complaint against a Service called a meeting of leaderafterfellow Democrat keep Union County families John Kitzhaber resigned tenanceand capitalconstrucConvicted cop killer Cove School District teacher. county government officials Sidney Dean Porter of and forest users. warm during the cold winter amid ethics questions. tionprojectsto befunded by John Day"suffers from a Facing the biggest crisis A small group of stakemonths. the $31.85 million bond voters ofhis decades long political holders met at the WallowaThe event held at the A Wallowa County man presentsevere emotional approvedin November likely Whitman National Forest Union County Senior Center will have to be cut back. disturbance that constitutes career, Gov. John Kitzhaber was sentenced to 270 days finds himself increasingly reaches out to the community in Union County Jail for It also means that the a danger to the health or Supervisor's 0$ce in Baker isolated. to raise money for low-income charges stemming from a safety of the community" City. school district's $3 million conand shouldn't be released Few of Kitzhaber's fellow Joanie Bosworth, public families struggling to pay tingency fund for bond project November house fire. this year, the Oregon Board Democrats are sticking up affairs officer for the Umatheir heating bills, said RoseEdward Buster Quest May, work will not have to be of Parole said. for him as he confronts a bar- tilla National Forest, said mary Powers, one of the origi- 50,ofWa llowa, was arrested drawn down, said La Grande The board pushed Porter's rage of criticism, calls for his the Forest Service would like nalorganizersoftheevent. Nov. 8 and charged with School District Superintenresignation and, potentially, a to re-engage with the public felony arson, manufacturing dent Larry Glaze. projectedreleasedateto
i~
i
•
i
i
i
•/0hakoi~ Rft Cloth Prewasbed by Attendant
• Nekpp&nt&iTt • /PastgutiIitiy Service i
' + ~" P +I '~
/o g~ </4Thqa/$g T~Og't~ iy( Of ogxrr/ahIed
'i euStOmerS. E<ayyy,NeW Year!"
i ,
;
.
r
i
1060B Island Avenurrr Island Cig
541 - 9 6 5 - 7 4 Q Q
Under the Bi g Green Quaker State Sign on the stripin Island City
• 0
•
• 0
•
' ><ll Stt« i
NetleeotL ~IJ." • 0
•
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
THE OBSERVER — 190
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
MARCH March 1
forestrestoration efforts."
A North Powder man was found dead near the Pallette Ranch on the upper Imnaha River Road. According to Wallowa County Sheriff Steve Rogers, William Lee Fox, 78, of North Powder, drove up the Imnaha River Road to the Wallowa Mountain Loop Road and beyond past Ollokot Campground to the intersection of Little Dry Creek Road, where his vehicle got stuck in the snow. The sherifFs office said Fox suffered from several medical conditions, including chronic lung disease. It's believed that he died of natural causes.
March 25 The Union Hotel, which opened in 1921, may soon be the site of one of the few bilingual elementary schools in Oregon. Charlie Morden and partner Ruth Rush, owners and operators of the Union Hotel, plan to open a Chinese language immersion school at the Union Hotel as early as September 2016. Children will be taught in both Mandarin Chinese and English on the expansive and now vacant third floor of the Union Hotel plus other portions of the building.
,lP II rIIIII
qf [
T
+
L
Cc
March 2
March 26
Shelter From the Storm's new Island City location was approved last week by Community Connection of Northeast Oregon to open its food bank once again. Shelter From the Storm closed the foodbank in itsprevious location at the end of October. They hope the food bank will be open by mid-March. It will operate similarly to how it operated before, with few questions asked of those requesting food. On Saturday night, the organization held one of its popular fundraising events, celebrating 18 years. The Shelter's Soup Supper, always a sold-out event, brings the organization together with its community supporters.
The Oregon Department of Energy announced that the La Grande School District will receive a $22,620 grant from theagency through its Cool Schools program to upgrade the lighting at all five of its schools. The Oregon Department of Energy estimates that the installation of the LED lights will save the La Grande School District an estimated$1,611 ayearin energy costs. Almost all of the lights will be instal led outdoors atthe five schools. The grant will be supple-
Tim Mustae/The Observer
Ground leveling work is done near the main entrance of the construction site of the Blue Springs Crossing housing complex in March. The 38-unit, $76 million project was completed this summer after breaking ground in September 2014. by Mark Goss, who finished renovationsofthe property last fall. No one was living in the home. La Grande Fire Chief Bruce Weimer said the fire appearedtostartin the middle of the home and then spreadinto the attic.W eimer said the furnace could have played a role.
proposed change would then have to be authorized by the Oregon Economic and Community Development Department.
March 16
service area.
Construction of the 38-unit,
$7.6 million Blue Springs
March 19
Crossing low-income housing A teen is dead after a project on Walton Road is on rollover crash occurred near schedule thanks to the mild Ladd Canyon. At approxiMarch 10 winter. mately 7 p.m., a Blue 2000 A 15-person crew from One of the five apartment Ford Excursion pulling a the Riverbend Fire Academy buildings at the site could toy-haulertype trailer operjoined instructors for training be ready for tenants to move ated by Todd Schroeder, 54, of exercises near Oregon Youth into by the first week of May, Milton-Freewater, was travelAuthority's Riverbend Youth ing eastbound on Interstate according to Dale Inslee, March 6 Transitional Facility, just past executivedirectorofthe 84 and descending Ladd Northeast Oregon Housing Canyon when he lost control Union County could be see- Hilgard Junction State Park. March 3 ing a county-wide emergency The Fire Academyis enterAuthority, which will own of the vehicle and rolled into services notification system ingits fourth fire season, and and manage the Blue Springs the center median, according Local police are investigating an armed robbery that in the near future. instructor Brett Dunten estiCrossing complex. to apressreleasefrom the J.B. Brock, the Union All of the buildings will be Oregon State Police. occurred at the Hideout mates the program will have 25 youngmenready to fi ght inished by theend ofM ay, f Fisher Schroeder, 14, who Saloon. La Grande Police County emergency services manager, recommended to fire when the season amps up. about nine months after the Sgt. Det. Jason Hays said a was sitting in the middle pasThe young men at Riversengerseat,wa sejectedfrom young white male — in his the county commissioners constructio n project'sSept. 5 groundbreaking ceremony. late teens or early 20sa contract with AlertSense, bend areon theirlastleg of the vehicle and pronounced serving in a juvenile facility, LMC is expected to easily describedas about 5-foot-5, a company based in Boise, dead at the scene. entered the saloon through Idaho. preparingto re-entersociety. meet its early June deadline, March 20 According to Brock, the Many Fire Academy graduInslee said. the back door carrying a large gun. system has several very use- ates hope to fight fires when Oregon Connections AcadMarch 17 One employee and one ful capabilities. The first is an they are released. emy students were searching patron were in the bar at the opt-inthat allows residents Enterprise Chief of Police forclues and debrisatBirnie March 11 Wes Kilgore tendered his Park. They found both and time, Hays said. Once inside, to signup forthe service and the robber motioned for the entertheiremail addressand One-fifth of funding from resignation to the city developedanew appreciation employee to get the cash out cellphone number. The second the La Grande Urban Reof community service and council, and at today's of the till, which she did. The is reverse 911 that is specifinewal Agency for a proposed Enterprise City Council history in the process. cally for landlines. Third is robber left through the back grocery store will be allocated special meeting, the council ORCA students took part the Integrated Public Alert in ORCA cleanup day and an door with an undisclosed to U.S. Bank to use for liquid- members in attendance amount of cash. Warning System, which ality purposes. voted unanimously to accept OregonTrailscavenger hunt, The URA voted 5-2 to apthe resignation. lows the emergency message coordinated by Taylor Hunt, March 4 Mayor Steve Lear said of Island City, an ORCA to reach out to cellphones prove changes to the agency's agreement with the business Kilgore was put on adminisDespite worries about fraf- using the towers within student. Hunt organized the fic flow that topped concerns range. owners. The primary change frative leave March 2 by the eventas partofher senior during public testimony, at discussed at the special sescouncil. The Observer quesproject. March 9 tonight's meeting, the sion of the URA focused on tioned the council about the La Grande City Council thereallocation of$100,000 The Union City Council processforputting Kilgoreon March 23 declined to require a fraffic has been asked by the City of to be granted to U.S. Bank. leave and what negotiations After three years simmerLa Grande to pass a resoluApplicants Al Adelsberger had occurred with the couning on the back burner, the studyfora proposalofadditionalstreetvacations on the tionsupporting a proposed and Troy Berglund requested cil's police committee since heat has been turned off of amendment that would the change in the agreement March 2. The council had no county campus. the Wallowa-Whitman Naincrease the Grande Ronde in order to satisfy liquidtionalForest' stravelmanageLast year, the La Grande reply, nor did they answer Enterprise Zone, which is ity requirements for U.S. why Kilgore was placed on ment plan. City Council approved a designed to attract new busi- Bank as they move forward administrat iveleaveorwhat Jim Pena, the Pacific street vacation of KAvenue from Fifth Street to Sixth. Northwest's regional forester, nesses, by a net total of 443 to secure a Small Business prompted his resignation. Administration loan for the Now it will consider a second acres. Councilor Sue Briggs senta letterto theforest March 18 street. said during a city council project. supervisors explaining his The proposed right-of-way meeting that she supports A group of community decision. March 13 the proposalbecause itcould members is hoping to see "After speaking with Forest vacation will result in the availability of 115 total park- bring more business into La Grande named one of The City of Enterprise's Supervisors Steve Beverlin ing spaces, 15 more than is Union County, which would w ater improvement projectis America's Best Communities. of the Malheur and Tom required of the county. help Union economically. The going out to bid next month Dale Mammen and Michael Montoya of the WallowaThe county intends to des- council did not vote on the with construction scheduled Whitman as well as the Jaeger presented to the La ignatethose surplus spotsfor amendment but scheduled a for May. Grande Rotary Club some of counties within those forest Our Lady of the Valley Catho- work session to discuss it. The project callsfor the work the Regional Trans- boundaries and members of lic Church along Fifth Street Union County and the formation Team has done to the construction of a new the public, we believe this cities of Union, La Grande, adjacent to the church. 425,000-gallo n water storage help LaGrande win theABC pause will provide enhanced Island City, North Powder reservoir. The city has an Prize. opportunity to focus on the March 5 and Elgin are all co-sponThe award comes with a Blue Mountains Forest Plan easementagreement to cross land owned by the Stangel The La Grande Fire sors of the Grande Ronde $3 million grant and is part Revision re-engagement," Department responded to Enterprise Zone, which now Pena said."It is my expectaEstate on Ant Flat Road. The of acompetition sponsored a fire on Greenwood Street is 11-V2 square miles and two-frack dirt road will be by Frontier Communications tion that all three forests, and DISH Network that including the Umatilla, will between Adams and Washhas been in place since 2009. rockedtoim prove accessto ington avenues shortly after Alterations in the makeup of the reservoir. continue to address natural focuseson economic revital10 a.m. the enterprise zone cannot be The water project is sched- ization in small towns and resource concerns and public The home, adjacent to a uled for completion in late rural communities within the access needs as part of ongomade unless all co-sponsors 2016 or early 2017. Frontier Communications ing project-level decisions and Goss Motors lot, is owned approve the change. The
•
•
•
•
-
•
•
•
OJ • •
•
•
•
3 • •
•
•
g • •
mented by about $9,000, which the school district will receive from OTEC in the form ofa rebate,said Lara Petitclerc-Stokes, OTEC'S manager of communications and government affairs.
March 27 With just eight weeks in the Oregon House of Representati ves under hisbelt, Greg Barreto, R-Cove, sits on three committees including Business and Labor and Agriculture and Natural Resources. Barreto met with Wallowa County residents for a town hall at Community Connection.
March 30 The City of La Grande and Union County in 2014 saw more than $14,500 in additional TRT revenues over 2013, according to a report presented by Kristen Dollarhide, Union County Chamber of Commerce executive director. Dollarhide said TRT funds are one of the most tangible ways to calculate return on investment when it comes to tourism, but she also spoke about the chamber's website data, visitor requests and cooperative advertising.
March 31 A major structure fire broke out around 11 p.m. at a Barenbrug USA seed plant south of Imbler has been determinedtobe accidental. The State Fire Marshal's office determined that the blaze was caused by maintenance work that was being performedinthe plant' sseed processing area, according to La Grande Rural Fire Department Chief Larry
Wooldridge. No one was injured in the fire, which broke out around 11 p.m. Tuesday. It destroyed a large amount of seed and a forklift,badly burned an oldertractorand did extensive damage to a building. AccordingtoWo oldridge, "The loss was $1.5 million."
200 — THE OBSERVER
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
APRIL April 1
16 becauseitsexpenditures in 2014-15 have been less than anticipated.
The La Grande City Council voted to vacate K Avenue and a portion of Fifth Street, which allows the Joseph Building to remain in use and will create 115 parking spaces for the county campus. As part ofthisvacation, the county will offer 15 parking spaces to Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church for church and Marian Academy staf. An agreement between the church and county is in
April 23
g
jg
~- Ill
place. The city council approved to vacateon a 5-2 vote,with Mayor Steve Clements and City Councilman Gary Lillard voting in opposition.
Apnl 24
The search for a new Eastern Oregon University presidentispickingup speed. The initial field of 60 applicants has been narrowed Tim Mussoe/TheOhserver to about 10 by Eastern's Union County received $2 million to help fund a new courthouse. The old courthouse, the Joseph Building located presidential search committee. The size of the pool at KAvenue, was called the worst courthouse in the state in a 2008 study, but several offices are staying where they of candidates under considare when the new courthouse is finished being built. eration still could expand April 17 slightly because applications The search to find the next arecontinuing to be accepted forthe position. president of Eastern Oregon The search committee will University has been narlater name a pool of finalists rowed to four finalists, the and will bring in the final school announced. The candicandidates to La Grande dates, who will begin visiting in late April or early May campus next week, are Marysz Rames, Dakota State to be interviewed by the EOU Board of Trustees and University interim president; CynthiaPemberton,who the State Board of Higher Education. The on-site visit serves as provost and vice will also include a meeting presidentfor academic affairs with faculty, students and at Dickinson State Univerthe public. sity; EOU alumni Tom Insko, area manager of Boise CasApril 3 cade's Inland Region in La Grande; and Martin Tadlock, Dianne Greif, the principal of Elgin's Stella Mayfield provostand vicepresident for School the past five years, Kris Rasmusseu photo academic affairs at Bemidji has been named the next Flames blaze out the second-story windows of a house at 1601 Seventh St., La Grande, State University. district superintendent by early morning of April 6. April 18 the Elgin School Board. Greif will succeed Wayne Herron Union County Circuit Court One man died and two on charges of first- and secchildren were seriously as superintendent July 1. Greif is a 1979 Elgin High ond-degree animal neglect. injured in a one-vehicle The Union County Shercrash on Monroe Lane about School graduate and taught ifl"s 0$ce in late January middle school math at Stella eight miles northeast of La Mayfield for 17 years. Like seized more than 70 animals Grande. Herron, Greif will wear two trom their property on BehJacob Ryan Yeates, 23, of rens Lane in Summerville La Grande, died instantly at hats as superintendent. She will remain Stella Mayfield's after a search warrant was the scene, according to the Oregon State Police. Yeates principal, and the school disexecuted. Sheriff's officials trict will later name someone saidatthetime thatcarwas one ofthreepeople riding unrestrained in the flatto succeed Herron as high casses were found on the school principal. property. bed of a Black Nissan pickup. According to court docuThe other two were both April 6 ments, Denton and Painter children who live in Union The Union City Council were ordered to the sherifFs County, Mickhail Detrates office for fingerprinting and agreedtovote on aresolution and Vannessa Halleck. A otherprocessingearlierthis child in the front seat, Kayla to expand the Grande Ronde Cherise Kaechele/TheObserver Enterprise Zone by a net of Halleck, was not injured. Eastern Oregon University presidential finalistTom lnsko month. They have not been taken into custody. The driver, Brandon Carew 433 acres in the La Grande maps out the school's future strategies in his vying for Halleck, 27, of La Grande, area at its April 13 meeting. the position. April 15 Sue Briggs voiced the was arrested by the OSP strongestsupportfor the rollover crash on westbound on charges of first-degree jor projects, all of which will The Joseph Building was resolution at the work be fundedwith money from Interstate 84in Ladd Canyon. called the worst courthouse manslaughter, first-degree The crash, which occurred in the state in a 2008 study, session. a $31.85 million bond voters assault, driving under the in"It is for the public good," approved in November. about 14 miles southeast of but several offi cesarestaying fluence of intoxicants-felony, said Briggs. The city councilThose building projects La Grande, claimed the life where they are in the buildreckless driving and three or said rejecting theresoluinclude the construction of of one of the van's passening, and the county will be counts of recklessly endantion would make it look like looking to find businesses and gering. He was lodged in the a new Central Elementary gers, Ruben V. Garcia, 24, of Union is closed for business. School building, the addition Salem, who was pronounced organizations to move into the Union County Jail. The size of the Grande of about six new classrooms dead at the scene, according vacated courthouse space. April 20 at Island City Elementary Union County CommisRonde Enterprise Zone canto Oregon State Police. Garnot be expanded until each of School and the construction cia was one of two passengers sioner Jack Howard said the Families may soon have its six co-sponsors approves of a new career technical ejected trom the vehicle. county should focus on tying a new option for how to an amendment calling for the building at La Grande High The other, Julio Cesar together the government pay for use of La Grande's alteration. The City of Union School. All three building Gonzales, 18, of Tualatin, was services already housed in Veterans Memorial Pool. taken by air ambulance to St. the Joseph Building, make The La Grande City Council is a co-sponsor along with projects will start in the Union County and the cities spring of 2016. Alphonsus Regional Mediand Parks and Recreation suretax dollarsarespent of La Grande, Elgin, Island Advisory Commission discal Center Hospital in Boise, efficiently to allow for a new April 10 City and North Powder. Idaho, where he is listed as public safety building and cussed introducing a monthly having critical but stable membership fee that would The Joseph Branch Rail start discussing how a new April 7 with Trail project is still early injuries, according to OSP. jail facility could be paid for. automatically charge the in its planning process, but user's credit card. Proposed A major building fire at 1601 Seventh Street caused organizersbehind the project April 13 The Enterprise City prices for the monthly memsignificant structural damare encouraged by out-of-arbership are $35for adults, Both the Island City and Council voted unanimously Union city councils passed age and injured one person ea supporters who work on, to send the city's water $25foryouth/seniorsand $75 in La Grande. for a five-person family. Nonuse and live adjacent to trails resolutions supporting an system improvement project Three men are known to themselves. amendment that would exresidents are proposed to pay out to bid and proceed with Trail enthusiasts involved pand the City of La Grande's advertising. have been in the two-story an additional $10. building when the fire started with the Weiser River The city has already seen The council will likely take portion of the Grande Ronde Enterprise Zone by a net of up the matter to adopt the at about 6:20 a.m. All three National Trail Association its way around one obstacle: and the OC&E Wood Line trying to coordinate the new fees at its May meeting. escaped quickly but one 433 acres. This means that suffered a minor burn, said x oftheenterprisezone's timing of some hydrant and State Trail were in Northeast allsi April 22 La Grande Fire Chief Bruce Oregon to share their experi- co-sponsors have now passed pipeline work with Oregon Weimer. The structure, which ences with trail projects. resolutions supporting the ex- Department of TransportaThe City of Union's budget Rocky Houston, Oregon committee was presented previously had been an apartpansion amendment proposed tion's schedule to chip seal ment complex, has only one Parks and Recreation DeHighway 82 this June. with a proposed spending by the City of La Grande. resident, owner George ShirThe expansion amendment The advertisement should partment state trails director, plan that is up $733,186 trom now must be authorized ley, who is now being assisted told the group that trails be published by next week, the current year's budget. by the American Red Cross. can fill important roles, from by the Oregon Economic City Administrator Michele The increase will allow the needing a mental break to Young said. Interested conand CommunityDevelopcitytocovertherising operApril 8 ment Department before it ating costs but not add any gettingexercise,butdeveltractorswillhave atleast30 oping and maintaining the The La Grande School becomes official. days to go over the 500-page new programs, said City of Board voted to have the trails isn't easy. bid and contract document. Union Administrator Sandra April 14 The council will then vote to school district enter into Patterson. April 12 negotiations with DECA ArOne reason for the budget Two Baker County resiapprove or disapprove the chitecture Inc. of Portland for uptick is the city will have a One person died and dents, Ava Denton and Ross project committee'srecomdesignservicesforthree mamendation in June. seven more were injured in a Painter, were arraigned in good cash carryover in 2015-
•000
Despiteseveralattempts by Oregon Republican lawmaker to derail legislation expanding background checks on gun sales, the proposal will be getting a full House vote. In a 5-4 party-line vote, Democrats on the House Rules Committee narrowly approved a bill requiring background checks for nearly all private firearm sales.
•000
Ten years after the Oregon Wolf Plan was approved by the state's fish and wildlife commission, gray wolves have reached recovery goals and a process to remove them from the state's endangeredspecieslistwasproposed in Bend at a meeting of the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commissioners. Russ Morgan, Oregon's wolfbiologist, testified, "Despite a relatively low population they are increasing in abundance and distribution and have a low probability of failure."
April 26 Interstate84 was closed for about four hours while Oregon State Police collision reconstructionists investigated asingle-vehicle crash near Meacham. Steven Gardner, 60, of Cove, was pronounced dead at the scene. According to police, a preliminary investigation shows that the 2003 Chevy Tahoe Gardner was driving was traveling eastbound when it lost control and traveled through the median then struck a guardrail and rolled over, coming to reston itstop blockingboth lanes oftravel.
April 27 With all co-sponsors on board, an amendment to the Grande Ronde Enterprise Zone could boost an opportunity for growth in La Grande. The City of La Grande sought the change to expand its portion of the enterprise zone by a net 433 acres. The changes approved by the co-sponsors mean that a portion of La Grande's land within the enterprise zone will increase to at least accommodatea 100-acre site, which is preferable to many industrial businesses looking to relocate. Currently, the largestcontiguous area is about 60 acres.
April 28 The La Grande Budget Committee opted to fund a new police officer position. With expenditures already outweighing revenues, City Manager Robert Strope voiced caution about funding the position. Members of the budget committee, though, said they believe funding the officer is important and that they will work over the next year to see what can be cut in the future to maintain the position.
April 30 Parents need to be involved in their children's lives. That was the overall message of a town hall meetingregarding underage drinking in Union County. The Center for Human Development and the Union County Communities Coalitionpartnered up toprovide parents and community members the information they need trom experts who deal with underage drinking. During the meeting at the Blue Mountain Conference Center, La Grande High School Principal Brett Baxter said teenagers are dealing with a different world than what their parents experienced.He believes the best thing a parent can do is go home with the determination to focus on the family and talk to their children.
•000
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
THE OBSERVER — 210
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
MAY May 1 Gov. Kate Brown added pressure to a group oflawmakers working to regulate Oregon's medical marijuana market, saying she wants the state to require a tracking system that follows marijuana trom the day it's planted to theday it'ssold. Brown wrote she supports the system, known as seed-to-sale, in a letter to members of the joint legislative committee tasked with regulatingmarijuana before possessionbecomes legalfor adults July 1.
15 a<
IilillI I Dick Mason/TheObserver
Union High Scool student Travis Rhyne places flags at military graves in the Union Victorian Cemetery.
May 2 Some changes are in store for the Elgin Family Health Clinic. While the community waits for the go ahead on the new clinic, the current clinic will be taken under the wing of Grande Ronde Hospital. Nothing is finalized between the South County Health District, which provides the staff in Elgin and at the Union Family Health Clinic, and the hospital, but the entities involved say the bestchoiceistocom bine forces.
Tim Mussoe/The Observer
The $1.5 million Phase II of the Adams Avenue Streetscape Project is funded through the city's Urban Renewal program, which generates revenue from property taxes within the district.
May 15
Bill Lindsley to resign his position later this month. Lindsley, who won a threeway race for his fourth term May 3 as mayor in November 2014, Eastern Oregon University's announced his retirement to field of presidential finalists is the Union City Council. now down to three. Marysz Rames, one of the Gov. Kate Brown signed finalists, withdrew her name a bill requiring background fiom consideration, according checks on firearm transfers to David Nelson, chairman of betweenprivate parties, the EOU Board ofTrustees. making Oregon the eighth Rames, the interim state to require screening on president of Dakota State nearly all gun sales. University in Madison, South The law, which takes effect Dakota, announced she was immediately, requires gun withdrawing in an email buyers and sellers who aren't to Cathy Dyck, the interim related to visit a licensed chancellor of the Oregon gun dealer who can run a University System. background check.
Despite objections trom downtown business owners and employees, eight trees are coming down as part of the Adams Avenue StreetscapeProject. La Grande Public Works Director Norm Paullus said most of those trees will be replaced and several others added sothat the areawill actually gain six trees. The tree removal drew complaints trom nearby business owners and employees, who said they weren't consulted on the matter and just recently found out the trees would be removed.
May 16
May 4
May 12
Construction work to further improve La Grande's downtown sidewalks will soon begin. Phase II of the Adams Avenue Streetscape Project — formerly called the Big H project — is setto start May 18, city officials said in a neighborhood meeting on the project.
The Oregon Board of Higher Education voted unanimously to name Tom Insko the 12th president of Eastern Oregon University. Insko takes the helm of the university July 1. "I'mhumbled by your selection and honored to have thisopportunity to serve as the president of Eastern Oregon University," an emotional Insko said following the vote. "I love this university, I love this community and I love this region."
May 6 Six local projects got the OK for funding trom the Urban Renewal Agency. Movingforward,though, members of the URA indicated they want to revisit how the agency and the Urban Renewal Advisory Commission evaluate project proposals.
A standoffbetween police and a man holding two people hostage ended without casualty. The WallowaCounty Sheriff's 0$ce was contacted by Shirley Scott, 62, of the River May 10 Woods area on the upper La Grande Police spent Imnaha River, regarding a hours canvassing and search- domestic violence incident. ing the city for an attempted Scott Fouste, 52, also of the robbery suspect. RiverWoods area,was allegSet up in a storage unit edly threatening Scott and at 2213 Jefferson Ave., Lt her son, Jason, 41. Derick Reddington said the May 14 mushroom buyer was approached by a man described A thunderstorm caused to be in his early 20s. He was flash flooding in parts of about 5-foot-8 with a slim La Grande. "It was very turbulent. The build wearing a black hoodie, white jeans, a black ball cap water was flowing heavily," and a blue bandana around said La Grande Police Chief his face. Police said the man Brian Harvey. approached the buyer and The flooding was triggered pointed a black semi-autoby an intense rainstorm matic pistol at the buyer. thatstarted about 4:15p.m. For about 30 minutes rain May 11 poured down with an intenA reminder trom his wife sity rarely seen in Northeast of a promise the couple made Oregon. Rain continued fallto each other several years ing after this point but with ago persuaded Union Mayor less intensity.
•
o-
r
•
-
•
Rod Begay had the honor of putting his memory of Native American music to the test. Begay participated in the 45th annual Indian Arts Festival and Powwow at Eastern Oregon University, an event featuring Native American music, dancing and a Friendship Feast.
May 18 Gov. Kate Brown and other political forces in Oregon are standing behind a landmark requestfor$100 million for new affordable housing that will face off against budget realit iesand concerns about whether now is the time for that kind of investment.
May 19 Union City Councilor Ken McCormack lost his right to vote but found his way to the top of Union's political hierarchy. McCormack was appointed Union's next mayor by a vote of the city council. McCormack won a secret ballot election, receiving three votes. Council President Doug Osburn received one vote, and one councilor abstained. Five of the council's six members were present. Max Square is in the beginning stages ofbeing torn apart for the Adams Avenue Streetscape Project, and much like last week's treeremoval,people aren't happy about it. The floor of Max Square, which was lined with bricks bearing the names of com-
- r
•
munity members, is being replacedas partofthisbeautification project, and some of those who purchased bricks in 1998, when they were laid in the square, are dismayed that their bricks are now in pieces.
May 20 An Imnaha man who kept law enforcement at bay for nearly nine hours last week appeared in Wallowa County Court for a hearing to modify hisrelease agreement. Shirley Scott of Imnaha asked the court to let her estrangedboyfriend, Scott Fouste, care for their animals when she is away trom home and to allow him to live at a fiiend's house a mile away. She said this would help him get back to work caring for a coupleofpropertieson the river.
May 21 Union High School students were searching for heroes. Some were much easier to find than others. The students were looking forthe grave sitesofveterans buried at Union Victorian Cemetery. The students placed a United States flag at each grave site, flags that will remain up through Memorial Day weekend. A wildfire simulation was conducted at Eastern Oregon University, teaching all the relevant entities what to expect when fire season begins. cWe wantto be prepared if a wildfire occurs," said La Grande Unit Forester for the Oregon Department of Forestry Mark Jacques. Jacques said 2013 and 2014 were back to back the worst wildfire seasons Oregon has experienced. Identity theft complaints in Oregonmade a drasti cleap in 2014. For years the state ranked in the 30s for number of complaints across the nation, but in the most recent report Oregon jumped to No.
3. From 2013 to 2014, the state saw a 109 percent increase in identity theft complaints. In 2014, 4,946 complaints were filed in Oregon.
May 23 The Mid Columbia Bus Co. announced it will be selling its stock, and Landmark Student Transportation will be taking over the transportation company. The bus company, located in Pendleton, is currently owned by the Flatt family and has been contracted with the La Grande School District for more than 20 years, said Superintendent Larry Glaze.
May 25 La Grande lost one of its most respectedand popular educators. Greg Franldm, an awardwinningLa Grande High Schoolscience teacherwho retiredin 2012,died May 25 in La Grande. Information about the cause of Franklin's passing has not been released. Funeral arrangements will be announced later by Loveland Funeral Chapel.
May 26 The Elgin City Council votedtotake down a stop sign and erect a yield sign on 10th Street to alleviate some complaints by community members at last night's meeting. Paul Johnson, who lives on 10th Street near the stop sign, complained about the noise of the vehicles stopping in front of his home.
May 27 Chris Holmgren, owner of Elgi n'snew gun manufacturing business, Calico Light Weapons Systems, has two Chapter 13 bankruptcies that followed him trom Washington County where he owned two similar businesses. Calico Weapons moved to Union Countytrom Cornelius in 2014. Holmgren said in a previous interview that residents in that area west of Portland didn't appreciate what his company manufactures. After carefulconsideration and many hours of debate, the Wallowa County Board of Commissioners voted to approve an amendment to its land-use protection plan. During a public hearing, the commissioners heard
•
•
I
input about a proposed bike/ pedestrian trail that would run trom the north to the south end of Wallowa Lake. Its construction hinged on whether or not the commissioners would allow the trail's construction within a protected area between the Wallowa Lake Highway's western edge and the lake itself. The La Grande School District is set to add personnel next year. The dist rict'sproposed 2015-16budget callsforthe equivalent of six teaching positions plus 13 part-time paraeducator positionsto be addedfortheschooldistrict's kindergarten program. The educators are needed because the La Grande School District is shdbng trom half-time to full-time kindergarten in the upcoming school year.
May 28 The Union County Budget Committee tackled whether to continue to fund Buffalo Peaks Golf Course due to its financial troubles. The budget committee, composed of Union County commissioners, Bob Coulter, Cedric Shanks and Gene Hardy, gathered for a two-day meeting to discuss the county departments including the Mount Emily Recreation Area, sheriff's office, public works and their budgets.
May 29 An Oregon man was sentenced to 72 months in custody of the Oregon Department of Corrections after his probation was revoked and he committed new crimes that included sexual abuse. Christopher Chandler was sentenced on two separate casesafteraccepting a plea offer. In the first case, Chandler was sentenced to 24 months after his probation was revoked on a case in which he was first sentenced this January. The o~ charges included convictions of first-degree burglary, three counts of first-degree theft of a firearm and second-degree sexual abuse. Those convictions stem fiom a series of crimes committed in the fall of 2014, according to a press release fiom the Union County DistrictAttorney's office. Chandler committed burglaries and stole firearms, which he then sold for money to finance a relationship with an underage female, the press release states. His probation was revoked because of new criminal activity.
•
• •
t •
l
•
•
•
•
311 W. Main Street, Enterprise, OR • (5 4 1) 4 2 6 - 2 1 00 WWW. main-Street- mOtOrS. Com
Old Fashion Values Sales A Service •000
•000
•000
220 — THE OBSERVER
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
JUNE 3une 1
the bank authority to take possessionofavariety of property, including rock crushing equipment, vehicles, an airplane, other equipment and real property, according to court documents. In court documents, Bennett Goldstein, attorney for Community Bank, states that without immediate injunctive relief, the bank "would suffer irreparable harm through the depletion and diminution in value of its collateral."
Drought conditions in Eastern Oregon are affecting more than just the region's farms and fish; it could mean another early start to wildfire season on public and private lands. With barely any remaining snowpack, forests are drying out weeks ahead of schedule and crews have already responded to several humancaused fires out in the woods. Mitch Williams, wildland protectionsupervisorforthe Oregon Department of Forestry in La Grande, said the district usually enters fire season around July 4. But unless June brings rainand lots of it — he said this year figures to be longer and hotter for local firefighters.
3une 23
3une 2 A time capsule is being created by members of the Imbler High School class of 2015. The class and several ofits parents saw fit to begin creatingit sincetheclassof2015isthe 100th to graduate fiom IHS. The time capsule will not be buried like many butinstead will displayed next to or in the IHS trophy case or in the school's agriculture building.
Dick Mason/TheObserver
Members of the lmbler High School class of 2015 — RachetWeis, from left, Kelsee Carlsen and Drake Lannon — display some of the items they will place in a time capsule. was found deceased, Union County Sheriff Boyd Rasmussen said. Melvin Ackley, of Island City, had been missing since June 12. Search parties found him deceased in a secludedarea ofIsland City,according to the sherifFs office. Rasmussen said no foul play is suspected in the death.
3une 3 La Grande residents should anticipate another w aterrate increase thisyear — though not as steep as last year's $6 increase. In keeping with a 10-year rateschedule selected by the La Grande City Council last year, the city will move to increase water rates by 5 percent annually following the $6 per month increase that went into effect last year. The La Grande Police Department will not be getting a new police officer after
3une 16
Tim Mussoe/The Observer
Grande Ronde Child Center Director Mark Kubin adjusts the outdoor sprinkler toy for Sam Clement while the center's executive secretary, Jane Peacock, background, adjusts the water pressure at the Grande Ronde Child Center.
drainfield permits for development on property purchased all. on Eggleson Lane outside of The La Grande Budget Enterprise in March 2014. Committee in late April The complaint said Rick Newvoted to fund a new officer man, the county's electrical position, but the La Grande inspector, informed the JameCity Council switched gears ses that Oregon's building and optedtodrop funding for code allowed them to install theposition ahead ofbudget their electrical service line adoption. underground. The Jameses In reading a prepared state- installed a power line, power ment to the council, Councilor pole and permanent electrical Gary Lillard voiced concerns service box on their propfor funding the position, erty. Newman performed a particularly in future years as "service final" inspection and funding only gets tighter. approved the Jameses' new electrical service. The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division AngieLakey-Campbell,an is asking for help in locating Idaho educator, was named the individuals responsible the Imbler School District's for unlawfully wounding a next superintendent. Lakey-Campbell has been buck deer outside of La GrandeintheStarkey the principal of Cambridge Unit. High School in Cambridge, According to Sgt. Chris Idaho, since 2000. She has also Hawkins, a citizen reported taught math at Cambridge the mortally wounded buck High School. only a couple miles off Interstate84,ashortdistanceup One neighbor is being Ladd Creek Road. OSPFish haileda heroafterhe saved a and Wildlife troopers reteenager from a house fire in sponded and determined the Imbler — but he said the real buck had been shot with a.17 heroes are the firefighters caliber rifle twice in the head. who responded to the call. Just before 4 p.m. Friday, all 3une 4 local fire departments were Eastern Oregon University dispatched to a residential students will likely be paying structure fire in Imbler. more for tuition in the 2015Gary Robinson saw flames 16 school year. coming out the windows of The EOU Board of Trusthis neighbor's garage, and he eesvoted to increase tuition instantly called 911. by 4.9percent forin-state 3une 6 students and 3 percent for non-residents. A group of people are tryThe board has also proing to gain followers to supposeda $500 differentialtu- porta 2016 ballotmeasure ition for full-time undergrad- that would raise Oregon's uates and graduate students minimum wage to $15. admitted to any business 15 Now Oregon is traveldegree program, which would ing throughout the state to take effect during the sumget signatures on the petimer term. Differential tuition tion for the potential ballot is an additional tuition measure. If they are able to charge, typically applied to compile enough signatures, more costl y programs. voters will see this on next year's ballot. 3une 5 The group hosted a Wallowa County and the program atEastern Oregon City of Enterprise are being University. The heart of the sued for wrongfully issuing a message was workers should stop-work order and denying not be living at poverty level. building permits on property 3une 8 outsideofEnterprise. The suit said Lorien and Island City's city council Dustin James obtained votedtoboostbasicwater building, electrical, septic and service rates by $5 a month.
•000
The increase means that Stepdaughter Patti Gamost residents will see their routte of Baker City said the monthly rates increase to $45 family has filed a report with a month starting in July. the Union County SherifFs Office. She believes Ackley 3une 9 may have gone up Glass Hill, Hailee Patterson was where the family used to crowned queen at the Easthave cabins. ern Oregon Livestock Show. 3une 13 It was a record-breaking year for the Eastern Oregon Twenty-somethings Livestock Show's coronation. weren't the only people The four young women on celebratingtheirgraduation the court brought in $57,000 from Eastern Oregon Univerin ticket sales this yearsity this weekend. the most ever from a court. For one La Grande man, Patterson additionally broke the commencement ceremothe recordformost tickets ny marks the beginning of sold by an individual, for a a new chapter for him — no totalof$33,140. matter the age. Ronn Witcnft,71, Teceived The Imbler School Board his diploma, a dayhe said adopted a general fund ranks among the bestinhis life. budget of $4.679 million, one He was one of 378 graduthat is up $500,000 from the ateswho participated in the present year's budget. ceremony at Community The school district was Stadium and went across abletoboostitsbudget by the stage in a wheelchair $500,000 because it qualified due to health complications. for additional funding from Witcraft was among the the state aimed at helping more than 700 students who small school districts in earned bachelor degrees this remoterural areas,said Su- term.Eastern also conferred perintendent Beth Burton. 80 master' sdegrees,fi vecertifi catesand three associate's 3une 10 degrees this spring. The City of La Grande 3une 15 announced it has hired a new economic development The Little Basin Fire grew director. to more than 630 acres as Christine Jarski is set to hand crews, engines and start the job July 6. Jarski air attack battled Wallowa holds bachelor's degrees in psy- County's first bigfire of the chology and sociologyfium the season. College of Idaho and a master's Paul Karvoski, Wallowa in public administration fiom County Emergency Services Boise State University. manager, said the Imnaha Road is closed fiom Fence 3une 11 Creek to the Dug Bar. The fire Northeast Oregon fire is listed as human-caused on agencies are gearing up for the Blue Mountain Interagenwhat's been called an above cy Dispatch website and is normal fue season with higher under investigation, Karvoski temperatures and lightning sald. expected as well as drier conditions on the ground. The Elgin School District, Brian Goff of the Umatilla facing a budget shortfall, will National Forest said during a cut two teaching positions. conference call with reporlers The school board voted to thatitishard topredictfi re adopt a 2015-16 general fund activity, but long-term forebudget of $4.178 million, one casts are giving fire managers down almost $203,000 from 2014-15. The budget callsfor some insight. a primary grade teaching 3une 12 position and an elementary The family and fiiends of school physical education Melvin Ackley, 85, of Island position to be eliminated. City is scouring the valley in search ofhim. A missing 85-year-old man
•000
A linchpin in the La Grande educational community for more than four decades will soon shut its doors forever. The Grande Ronde Child Center, which opened 43 yearsago to providepsychiatricservicesforchildren who are behind in school because ofbehavioral and emotional problems, will close at the end of this month. GRCC's board voted in late May for closure after the nonprofit agency's contract with Greater Oregon Behavioral Health Inc. was not renewed. The contract provided GRCC with the bulk of its funding, said Executive Director Mark Kubin.
3une 18 Union County auctioned more than two dozen head of cattle thatwere seized earlier this year as part of an investigation of alleged animal neglect. Proceeds fiom the auction will cover the costs the county incurred to care for the animals, which was just under $40,000, according to court documents. A Wallowa County calf and sheep and a guard dog found dead in Umatilla County were confirmed to have been killed by wolves. Jeanie Mallory said she and her husband, Max, were moving 100 mother and calfpairs of cattle fiom one pasture to another in the late evening when they struggled to get one of the calves through a gate. When they looked back at the gate, there stood a woK
3une 19 The first Imnaha River Canyon fire of the season is all but in the record books with 630 acres burned.
3une 20 Along with 50 beers fiom all over Oregon, including beers that have never been poured in Eastern Oregon, 21 breweries fiom as far away as California, Colorado and Wyoming madean appearance in La Grande. La GrandeMain Street hosted the second Eastern Oregon Beer Festival at the Union County Fairgrounds.
3une 22 Bronson Lumber has closed its doors in Union County after Community Bank was granted an injunction against the company. Judge Russ West signed off on the injunction, giving
Alert deputiesspotted an individual police knew was driving with a suspended license. Shortly before 1:30 a.m., Union County SherifFs deputies on patrol in the La Grande area witnessed an individual, later identified as Zachary Vice, 31, operating a motorvehicle.Police attempted to stop the vehicle, but Vice accelerated away from them. An early morning call to police ended with one arrested on multiple charges, including possession of a weapon by a felon. Shortly before 2 a.m., Union County SherifFs Office deputies responded to a report of a fight at 287 W. Jefferson St. in Union, according to a press release fiom the sherilFs office. The initial call indicated that a gun was involved in the altercation, though no shots had been fired. Police arrested Barry "Woody" Brown, 55, of La Grande on two counts of menacing, criminal trespass in the first degree, criminal mischief III ivandalisml and possession of a weapon by a felon.
3une 25 Last-ditc h effortsto appease both Democrats and Republicans and find a path to the first major transportation package passed in the Oregon Legislature since 2009 was thrown by the wayside when Gov. Kate Brown announced there was no way forward. "Given the complexity of the issues and the remaining time available there simply isn't a path forward through bothchambers fora proposal that accomplishes both this session," Brown said in a statement.
3une 26 Mindy Mowery, who has been acting as interim executivedirectorfor Shelter From the Storm since December, is dropping"interim" from her title. She was chosen to be the new executive director.
3une 29 The City of Union has been awarded a $5,000 grant from the StateHistoricPreservation Office for the purpose of installing a bell tower at city
hall. The bell tower would replace one the city hall last had in the 1940s or 1950s, according to Union City Administrator Sandra Patterson. No one was injured in a truck fire that closed the interstate for much of the afternoon. The fir e wasreported about 12:10 p.m. in the westbound lanes of Interstate 84just east of Ladd Creek. The truck was carrying hay, which is known to spontaneously combust, but officials are not sure what caused the fire, said La Grande Rural Fire Chief Larry Wooldridge.
3une 30 After more than 36 years, Union County Planning Director Hanley Jenkins has retired and is looking forward to some fishing trips. Since his final day with the county, he's been"fishing as often as I can."
•000
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
THE OBSERVER —230
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
JULY 3uly 1
3uly 22
Having 8 ounces of pot in your home yesterday could have made you eligible for a five-yearmaximum prison sentence. Startingtoday,it's absolutely legal. Oregonians age 21 and older may now possess, smoke, eat orotherwiseingestmarijuana — once called the "evil weed," subject of propaganda films like "Reefer Madness" and considered in the 1930s to bea gateway tocrime, violence and other "socially deviantbehaviors,"according to a timeline available from the Wisconsin State Legislature.
The responsibility of a commissioner can weigh heavily on the person who holds the position. The learning curve and the relationships needing to be built take time and effort — something that cannot be done in eight years if term limits are enacted, according to Union County Commissioners Mark Davidson and Steve McClure. A grassroots groupUnion County Citizens for Good Government— helda meeting to discuss limiting a commissioner's term to eight years. Davidson is opposed to term limits, arguingit takes time to build relationships and serving as commissioner has a steep learning curve that's not conducive to the eight years Union County Citizens for Good Government wants imposed.
After months of being moved from one committee to another, a billtoincrease speed limits on Eastern Oregon highways is speeding toward aSenate vote before the Legislature's session ends. House Bill 3402, which raises the speed limit of certainstate and federal highways in Eastern Oregon, was passed through the House and is heading toward the Senate for a vote. Elgin Health District's boardofdirectorsreceived official confirmation that they will receive $1.25 million in state funds for the building of a new health clinic on Albany Street in Elgin. JaredRogers,district board member and treasurer, said that state Sen. Bill Hansell called him personally to give him the good news.
3uly 2 Local veterans have mixed opinions about the potential of Choice First, the revised version of the Veterans Access, Choice and AccountabilityAct of2014. "It has promise for offering better benefits," said Ken McCormack of Union, a member of VFW High Valley Post 4060. McCormack's optimism is temperedby therealization that the Veterans Administration will be making operational adjustments under Choice First.
3uly 3 Expansion of Wallowa Lake Village is on the horizon with 20 lots going up for saleatthebaseoftheW allowa Lake Tramway. Tramway partner Steve Anderson said the subdivision wouldn't look like a big housing development as most of the homes would be built on a gradual slope among large pines. "It's notgoing to beobtrusive,"Anderson said.
Alyssa Sutton/The Observer
Carl Strickler participated in the La Grande Crazy Days Soap Box Derby July18. He constructed his vehicle in two days, and coordinator Ron Osterloh said he had the best brakes in the derby. land fire supervisor for the La Grande Oregon Department of Forestry office.
3uly 6 Eastern Oregon University is set to lose Hunt Hall but restore its wrestling program. Fundingfor both would be providedtoEOU through
bills passed July 6 by the Legislatureforthe 2015-17 biennium. The legislation, which would have a major impact on EOU, includes House Bill 5005 and Senate Bill 5507. HB 5005 would provide $2.985 million for the demolition of Hunt Hall and restoration of its site, and Senate Bill 5507 would give
EOU $300,000 to help restoreitswrestling program.
3uly 7 After two failed attempts at the polls, the Joseph City Council is going back to the public to find a solution to fix the city's streets. During the past two years the council held several public meetings to present options for fixing Joseph's dilapidated streets. Last November the first ballot measure asked voters to approve a fee assessed to their property tax. When that effort failed,the city putup another ballot measure asking votersto approve a fee attached to their water bill. That proposal also failed.
3uly 8
Oregon set average to below-average standards for how well its elementary and middle school students should read and do math, a new study says. Neighboring Washington asked its students and 3uly 4 schools to hit a higher bar on Forest fire crews extinits reading and math tests guished a small wildfire near for 2013, the year examined Starkey and stopped the in the study. Washington progress of a much larger one setgrade-levelexpectations east of Union. far higher than Oregon did, The Dennis Creek Fire, 15 particularly for fourth-grade miles east of Union, which reading and eighth-grade startedlate lastweek,grew math, the study said. from 40 acres to 192 acres. The fire has not grown since 3uly 11 then. Two men were injured in A 3.9-acre fire 2-V2 miles a pair of fights in downtown southeast of Starkey was La Grande, which appear to completelymopped up by fire have been related, according crews by 3:40 p.m., according to police. to Kyle Tucker, acting wildThe men, William Meek,
28, of La Grande, and Jarrod Cooper, 31, an Idaho resident, were both transported to Grande Ronde Hospital where they were treated and released. Meek was injured in a physical fight in an alley between Jefferson Street Depot and Benchwarmers Bar and Grill. Police were calledto the scene atabout 1:46 a.m.
3uly 12 An Elgin man was killed in a crash outside Cove. According to police, Union County SherifFs deputies respondedtoa single-vehicle rollovercrash about 8 p.m. Upon arrival, a silver 2006 Dodge 4x4 pickup was in the ditch and had rolled at least once on the roadway. The driver, 62-year-old Galen D. Clark, had been ejected and was pronounced dead by paramedics.
3uly 13 In a revolutionary move, U.S. Forest Service representativessatdown toa roundtable discussion with Wallowa County citizens to discuss an overwhelming backlash to the proposed Blue Mountain Forest Revision Plan. Pressure from county commissioners and members of the Natural Resource Advisory Committee convinced members of the Blue Mountain Forest Plan Revision team to try a new approach— sitdown ata table and dTscuss concerns and possible solutions where the 1,400-plus page document is criticized for not meeting the needs offorestusersnor promoting forest health. West Nile virus has been identified in Union County about a month earlier than usual. The Union County Vector Control and Center for Human Development Public Health Services were notified that a mosquito sample testedpositive in theLadd Marsh area, according to Union County Vector Control District Manager Chris Law.
3uly 14 Elgin City Councilor Michelle Miles was asked
to resign from her position because of a report filed by City Administrator Brock Eckstein, saying she went through personnel documents without his, or the council's permission — a very serious violation, according to Eckstein. Miles, who decided to have the discussion during an open session, said she will not resign and the council has no authority to force her to resign.
3uly 15 La Grande may gain another police officer this fiscal year after all. After the La Grande Budget Committee in May reallocated contingency funds for a new police officer position, the city council changed gears last month, voting to move the funds back into contingency amid concerns for future budgetary constraints. Councilor John Bozarth, who was absent at the June meeting, introduced a motion to direct City Manager Robert Strope to prepare a resolution to transfer funds back out of contingency to fund theoffi cer. Union County Commissioners started discussions about whether the county should opt out of allowing the commercialsaleand productionofrecreational and medical marijuana. House Bill 3400 allows counties in which 55 percentor more ofvoters votedagainstMeasure 91,the measure to legalize recreational marijuana, to declare a moratorium on marijuana facilities as well as producers, processors, wholesalers and/or retailers, according to the bill. Island City Mayor Delmer Hanson signed an ordinance July 15 banning the sale of marijuana in Island City. Hanson signed the ordinance after the city council unanimously voted in support of it. Ordinance 146 prohibits the operationofmedical marijuana dispensaries and retail marijuana shops of any type.
3uly 17 In responseto a public
0
0
comment period, Wallowa County gave input to the
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service' sdraftrecovery plan for mid-Columbia Basin bull trout. A press release from USFWS said bull trout are a coldwater salmonid of stream and lake habitats in western North America. Once abundant in Oregon, Washington, California, Nevada, Idaho and Montana, they are now listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act in thelower 48 states.
3uly 18 La Grande held its first ever Soap Box Derby during the annual Crazy Days that took place downtown. Ron Osterloh recently moved back to La Grande after 30 years, and having run a similar event in Enterprise for three years, pitched the idea to La Grande Main Street Downtown, which organizes Crazy Days.
3uly 20 A grassroots group of Union County residents has taken the first steps in regulating the number of terms a commissioner can serve in Union County. Nearly every town in Union County was represented at a meeting of the Union County Citizens for Good Government. Led by Jim Mollerstrom, who has been involved in a number of organizations around the county, the group brings together voters who feel eight years is long enough for a commissioner.
3uly 21 More than a month after the disappearanceofNeliCristina Rogers, family and local law enforcement are no closer to explaining what happened to the 27-year-old. Sgt. Jason Hays of the La Grande Police Department was initially contacted by afriend ofRogersabout her disappearance. Currently the La Grande Police Department, the Oregon State Police, the Baker City Police, the Union County SherifFs Office, the Klamath Falls Police and the Union County Search and Rescue team are involved in the search for Rogers.
3uly 24 For the first time since it was created in 2009, La Grande Main Street will soonhave a salaried director. Sara Siddiqui, the current La Grande Main Street director, who was placed here through AmeriCorps a few years ago, will begin showing Thomas Taylor the ropes next week, before completely handing over the reins Aug. 15.
3uly 26 An Enterprise man was arrested after he allegedly illegally entered and then drove a marked Wallowa County SherifFs Office patrol vehicle. Mark Nickerson Lally, 30, allegedly entered a militarytype Humvee parked near the entrance of the Chief Joseph Rodeo grounds and then began driving it, according to the Wallowa County SherilFs Office. The marked vehicle, used primarily for offhighway patrols, does not require a key to startand doesnothave doors or windows that can be secured.
3uly 27 The FBI said that no toxic substances have been found in letters sent to about 20 Oregon sheriffs or their offices. Sheriffs around the state reportedreceivingtheenvelopes containing rambling, incoherent messages July 27. Investigators initially saidsome ofthepackages contained an unknown substance, but the FBI said July 28 that none had a visible powder. The suspicious mail was deliveredto countiesacross the state, including Washington and Jackson counties. In Northeast Oregon, suspicious envelopes were delivered to the sheriffs of Umatilla, Union, Wallowa,Baker and Grant counties.
3uly 30 The overarching message in a meeting between the Union Pacific Railroad and the five families who live in Telocaset was "Union Pacific is not in the water utility business." Though that may be obvious to some, Union Pacific has been supplying the homes in the small town of Telocaset, located outside of Union, since approximately 1951.
0
WW p ekv4 al~
tro~nagce~and lapprec~iate yo~ur oi dence in us. A I ED ,l ' MQRTGA E
J
RESOURCE
8 PIVISlON OF MANM M RTGAGE, LLC ¹ 2550
• 0
•
2108 Island Ave. La G~rande, OR %7850' • 541-962-755
• 0
•
• 0
•
240 — THE OBSERVER
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
AUGUST Aug. 1 Grande Ronde Hospital added two new clinics, though the clinics have been established for quite some time. According to a press release from Grande Ronde Hospital, the health clinics — in Union and Elgin — will now be called the Grande Ronde Hospital Elgin Clinic and the Grande Ronde Hospital Union Clinic, respectively.
Aug. 2 Ray and Mary Brown will neverforget the sightorthe sense of terror. At about 8:30 p.m. the Browns looked outside their home on Sanderson Road about four miles north of Summerville and saw flames from the 1,142-acre Phillips Creek Fire. "It was kind of freaky. You wonder'Is is coming up our Courtesy photo road?"' Mary Brown said. The Browns and many The Phillips Creek Fire, which grew from 30 acres to 1,142 acres within three days, sent homeowners in the area into other residents of Sandera panic to protect their ranch animals and personal belongings. son Road and Ruckle Road shared the same feeling. Cosner, a 2012 Eastern Theirfearswere elevated a Oregon University graduate short time later when Union has accepteda position with Washington State University County officials came to their in Pullman and is set to leave doors and issued a Level 1 La Grande around the end of evacuation notice. Under a Level 1 evacuation notice, one the month. must be ready to leave his Cosner's tenure at the Libor her home on a moment's erty started as an internship notice. as partofher seniorcapstone project.
Aug. 3
Motorcycle crashes since June have put one local man in a hospital and left three more dead. Oregon Department of Transportation data show deadly motorcycle crashes this year are up almost20 percent. Motorcycle crashes in Oregon claimed 32 lives from Jan.1 through July 23, the day before Jason Anteau, 43, of Hermiston, died, according to preliminary datafrom Oregon Department of Transportation. Tom Strandberg, ODOT spokesman in Eastern Oregon, saidtherewere 27 fatalities through the same period in 2014, an increase of 18.5 percentin a year.
Aug. 4 The Phillips Creek Fire grew and so did the number of residents put on evacuation alert. The fire, 7 miles northwest of Elgin, increased to 1,582 acres, according to fire officials. The continued strength of the fire prompted officials to issue Level 1 evacuation notices for all people living along Gordon Creek Road. People receiving Level 1 evacuationnoticesare asked to be ready to make a quick evacuation.
Aug. 5 The Union County Fair enjoyedarobust startlast week beforesizzling temperatures cooled its momentum. Final figures indicate that total attendance was about 11,000, down 3,000 from 2014. Union CountyFairManager Nan Puntney attributes the decline to high temperatures the last three days of the four-day fair. The La Grande City Councilvoted to approve a new police officer position. The city council had already considered, and shot down, the decision to add a police officer in May when the council approved the budget. However, City Councilor John Bozarth requested at the July city council meeting to revive the discussion. The more than $82,000 for the additional police officer will come from the contingency funds to the police department funds, according to the city council's documents. An Enterprise man was sentenced in the Wallowa County Circuit Court after
• 0
•
Aug. 19
Tim Mustoe/The Observer
Organizers of the Union County Fair say overall fair attendance was down from last year. Fair organizers say that high temperatures are likely to blame. being convicted for taking elk without a valid elk tag and second-degree criminal trespass. Skyler Willis, 25, was sentenced in court following the July 23 conviction. On Sept. 7, 2014, Willis shot a trophy six-point bull elk with his bow on the Zumwalt Prairie, which is located in the Chesnimnus Wildlife Management Unit, according to apressreleasefrom the Oregon State Police. Willis did not have a valid Chesnimnus Unit Tag and was also trespassing on Nature Conservancy property when he retrieved the bull
elk.
Aug. 6 The news on the Phillips Creek Fire front continues to get brighter. The fire, seven miles northwest of Elgin, is now 13 percent contained, up from 10 percent.
Aug. 9 Many Union County residents likely enjoyed their best night of sleep in about a week. All the Level 1 evacuation notices issued for the Phillips Creek Fire were lifted. The decision to lift the evacuation notices was made bythe Union County Board of Commissioners, working in cooperation with Phillips Creek Fire officials.
Aug. 10 Union, Wallowa and Baker counties are feeling the impact of a lightning storm that struck the region today. The storm ignited a total of 30 fires in the three counties, including three blazes now burning 10 miles east of Medical Springs. The Eagle Complex fires are 120 acres, 40 acres and 10 acres and are burning on the WallowaWhitman National Forest and privatelands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry. The fires are posing a
threat to the Eagle Creek area near Boulder Park 30 miles east of Union.
Aug. 14
Trees around La Grande are beginning to show signs they are suffering from the At least half a dozen low snowpack winter and the La Grande residents woke up hot, dry summer. to vandalized cars. There has been awareThe La Grande Police ness of the low snowpack Department got about six over the last few years, but reports of vehicles being this year trees are quickly tagged, or spray painted, showing evidence of the lack overnight, said Senior Officer of water. Brandon Boucher.
Aug. 16
Aug. 11 Firefighters reached a milestone in their battle against the Phillips Creek Fire. Firefighters pushed past the 80 percent mark in their efforts to fully contain the blaze, seven miles northwest of Elgin. The fire is now 82 percentcontained,said Kathy Arnoldus, a fire information officer for the Phillips Creek Fire.
Aug. 12 A former Eastern Oregon University administrator who successfully defended himself against a multimillion-dollar lawsuit accusing him of raping a co-worker has lost his latest attempt to getthe state tofoothis
$100,000 legal bill. The Oregon Court of Appeals ruled that the state isn'tobligated to pay Robert L. Davis' defense costsfor the late-night encounter in an Atlanta hotel room. Davis had argued that he was being sued for something that allegedly occurred while he was on the job.
Aug. 13 The Adams Avenue building that last housed Mt. Emily Ale House has been sold to Community Bank followinga foreclosure. Mt EmilyAle House and owner Gerold "Jerry" Grant are named as defendants in foreclosure documents filed in Union County Circuit Court. Community Bank, the plaintiff in the case, bought
the property for $220,000.
• 0
The threat to human life posed by the Eagle Complex ires,10m ileseastofM edical f Springs, ratcheted up. Level 3 evacuation notices were issued to everyone staying in cabins or other structures near the east fork of Eagle Creek. Anyone issued a Level 3 notice is required to evacuate immediately.
Aug. 17 It wasa red letterday in the saga of the fire that terrified the Elgin community earlier this month. The Phillips Creek Fire, seven miles northwest of Elgin, was turned back over to the Umatilla National Forest and the Oregon Department of Forestry. Control of the fire was handed back fiom a federal and state interagencyfirefighting team to federal and state agencies at the local level. The turnover was made because the Phillips Creek Fire has been contained to the point that it no longer posesa threat to people or structures. Police continue to search for a Joseph area man after he reportedly assaulted his ex-girlfriend and set her house on fire before fleeing. Law enforcement officials are seeking Jon Howells, 35, who police say set the house at 61099 Ski Run Road and a nearby car on fire.
Aug. 18 After three years at the helm of the Liberty Theatre Foundation, the curtains are closing for Executive Director Chantell Cosner.
•
Jon Howells, 35, was arrestedfollowing a day and a half on the run after allegedly assaulting his exgirlfriend and burning down the hand-hewn log cabin she rented in rural Joseph. Deputies from the Wallowa County Sheriff's 0$ce took Howells into custody about 11 a.m. when he returned to the 61099 Ski Run Road property. He was booked into the Union County Jail with
bail set at $50,000. Charges include felony arson and misdemeanor strangulation, menacing and assault.
Aug. 20 The tiny hunting-fishing community of Troy in far northern Wallowa County survived a brush with disaster when the fast-approaching Grizzly Bear Complex fire came within a half mile but skipped the town. The community's two to three dozen residents were issued evacuation notices by Wallowa County because of the threat posed by the Grizzly Bear Complex fires. The Level 3 evacuation notices, which require people to leave immediately, were issuedatabout 3:15 p.m. for Troy and the nearby areas of Eden Bench and Grouse Flat.
Aug. 21
Tim Mustoe/The Observer
Liberty Theatre Foundation Executive Director Chantell Cosner, a 201 2 Eastern Oregon University graduate, has accepted a position with Washington State University in Pullman and is set to leave La Grande around the end of the month. to know some of the deputies of theUnion County Sheriff's 0$ce on a first-name basis. McCormack is pleased with the service the City of Union receives from the sheriff's office but would like to seeone ortwo deputies specifically assigned to the town. Two wolves were found dead in the Sled Springs area of Wallowa County. One of the wolves found dead was collared. After the collar emitted a mortality signal, an Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife trooperfrom the Enterprise office, along with Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, responded and found two deceased wolves within 50 yards of each other. The cause of death is under investigation.
Aug. 25 The Wallowa County Chamber of Commerce reported receiving secondquarter motel tax funds in
the amount of $33,308.84 for the months of April, May and June. For the same time frame in2014, the tax collected was $28,246. The previous five years, the tax received by the county remained around
$26,000 to $27,500. Wallowa County Chamber Director Vicki Searles attributes the increase of funds to the 7Wonders of Oregon campaign and good weather.
Aug. 27 Eastern Oregon's largest Amry Guard formation finished up a historic deployment at one of the U.S. Army's toughest training areas, concluding the threeweek event with a virtuoso performance,according to the commander of the unit. Lt. Col Brian Dean, a La Grande native and resident of Salem, led the 3rd Battalion to the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, California, and said his outfit secured success.
La Grande Parks and Recreation decided to close Morgan Lake due to extreme fire danger. Parks and Recreation Director Stu Spence said the department has been moniAug. 28 toring the park all summer. The dry conditions and the Paul Kevin Sanders, 52, park host's concerns made Elgin, was arrested at the decision to close the park. 9 p.m. on a secret indictment warrant on charges of firstAug. 23 degree sodomy, first-degree A new wildfire began sexual abuse and secondburning four miles southdegree sexual abuse, accordwest of Joseph over the ing to Capt. Craig Ward of weekend, while the town of the Union County SherifFs Troy in far northern WalOffice. lowa County has survived Aug. 30 the two-state Grizzly Bear Complexfi res. Mother Nature intervened The Falls Creek Fire over the weekend to damp is consuming old-growth down two wildfires burning timber and brush near the in Wallowa County, bringing Hurricane Creek trailhead rainand coolertemperaand several popular camptures that relieved firefightgrounds. It was estimated ers and property owners. to cover 200 acres and is Authorities allowed some spreading slowly. evacuated residents back into their homes in Troy and Aug. 24 nearby areas,and reduced Union Mayor Ken evacuation warning levels McCormack wants the resithere and in the area of Hurdents of his community to ricane Creek Road in rural have abetterchance to get Joseph.
• 0
•
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
THE OBSERVER —250
SEPTEMBER Sept. 1 Aided by rain and the Oreogn NationalGuard, firefi ghtersmade headway against the 74, 496-acre Grizzly Bear Complex fires in Northeast Oregon and Southwest Washington. The fires are now 23 percent contained.
541.99.6Og
Sept. 2 The La Grande City Council decided not to allow Hwy. 30 Cannabis and Eagle Cap Dispensary, the two local medical marijuana facilities, to sell recreational marijuana in less than a month. The Oregon Legislature came out with a measure that would allow medical marijuana facilities in the state to sell recreationally beginning Oct. 1, if the municipalities allowed it. At the meeting, most of the objections forthepresale mentioned the fact that the Oregon Liquor Control Commission has not passed regulationsforrecreational marijuana, which creates a difficult situation for local police departments. A 46-year-old man from out of the area was arrested afterpolice located a stolen vehicle in La Grande. La Grande Police Chief Brian Harvey said the departmentgot acallfrom the alleged victim, out of Springfield, who said he believed his vehicle, which had been reported as stolen, was in La Grande. The vehicle was discovered in the Safeway parking lot. Multiple law enforcement officer, from the Oregon State Police and Union County SherifFs Office in addition to the La Grande Police Department, responded to the scene.
Tim Mustoe/The Observer
Outside of Elgin on Highway 82, Neli-Cristina Rogers' truck and remains were found approximately three months after being reported missing. Denny Fenn from Fenn Towing and Repair operates the backend of his truck to pull the battered truck out. disappeared mysteriously almost three months ago may have been found. The remains of a woman found at the bottom of a steep ravine in Minam Canyon by two La Grande Police Department detectives arebelieved to bethose of Neli-Cristina Rogers, 27. The La Grande woman had been missing since June 20.
.v~
I+gh-
Sept. 10 The specter of a labor strike no longer hangs ominously over the Eastern Oregon University campus. A tentativecontractagreement was reached during the second day of a bargaining session between representativesofthe 4,400 student services workers at Oregon's public universities and University Shared Services Enterprise.
Tim Mustoe/The Observer
After recieving a tip from ' i sL. Springfield, about a stolen Tim Mustoe/The Observer vechile, multiple law Rows of tents could be seen from the viewpoint near Highway 30 north of La Grande enforcement officers from on a September afternoon for the hosting of Cycle Oregon. Massages, smoothies, bike the Union County Sheriff's Sept. 3 repair, and other shops and services made layaway time enjoyable for cyclists rolling Office, Oregon State Police Morgan Lake reopened for through. and La Grande Police hiking, fishing and camping Department responded to following a closure prompted City employee,Judy Rygg, 2015 for another year of the economy 100,000 jobs and the Safeway parking lot to by fire danger. who served as Island City's more road deaths — includ$180 million per year simply catch the suspect. Fire danger remains cityrecorder forabout38 ingthosethat involve pedes- to maintain highway bridges high, and restrictions are yearsbeforeretiring May 29. trians — than in the last 15 at their current condition. coveredby relay participants Sept. 11 still in place for park users, No current City of Island City years. Already this year there during the 18th annual Drug Sept. 23 including: no campfires, no A promisingpiece of employees are beinginveshave been 301 deaths on Free Relay at the La Grande briquettes, no generators La Grande High School's future tigated, according to Island Oregon roads. Blue Mountain Seeds, a High School track. or motors and no smoking. iscominginto sharperfocus. City Mayor Delmer Hanson. grass seed production comAbout 70 peopleparticiSept. 20 Vehicle trafic is limited to Plans for the siting of pany near Imbler, has bought pated in the relay, which is Sept. 15 improved roads only. a career technical educaThe news keeps getting a neighboring seed cleaning conductedtopromote drug tion iCTEl complex at LHS County commissioners betterin thebattle against facility previously owned by and alcohol-fiee lifestyles. Sept. 5 have been released by the from across Oregon want the 12,763-acre Eagle ComBarenbrug USA that was The La Grande High Recentcoolertemperatures La Grande School District. to see Congress increase plex fires, 10 miles east of damaged March31 by fi re. School cross country team and the onset of rain transThe complex, to be located the paceand scaleofforest Medical Springs. Barenbrug, a fellow won the six-hour relay, loglated into a welcome in the southwest portion of management in the wake of Firefighters have made grass seed company based ging 53 miles. reprieve for firefighters across the LHS campus, will be con- another devastating wildfire such progress that officials in the Willamette Valley, Sept. 28 the region, yet at least one structed in 2016 and 2017 season. expect all roads in the fire decided not to rebuild its area blaze is still scorching with funding from a $31.85 Members of the Associaarea now shut down to be 50,000-square-f ootplant La Grande remains a terrain in Wallowa County. million bond for maintetion of Oregon Counties sent reopened by mid-week. south of Imbler, and instead relativel y safe place,accordNow more than 475fi iefi ght- nance and capital construca lettertoOregon'scongresreinvestedin itsproperty on ing to recently released FBI Sept. 21 ers — down fmm approximate- tionthatvotersapproved in sional delegation asking Marine Drive at the Port of crime data. ly 1,000 on Saturday — aie November 2014. forbipartisan support on The Union County District Morrow in Boardman. The data indicates the city grappling with the massive reforms to "effectively fight Attorney's Office is reviewing isjustassafe,ifnotsafer,as Sept. 13 Sept. 24 Grizzly Bear Complexblaze wildfires, rehabilitate burned more than 100 cases in the cities of similar size. near the town ofTroy, accordThe DryGulch firenear forests and actively manage midst of a criminal investigaIt may sound like a tall In 2014, La Grande tallied ing to Karen Ripley, public Halfway has prompted Cycle ourfederalforeststom eet tion into the alleged mishantask. It may even sound 15 viol ent crimes and 326 information officer for the Type Oregon officials to make the needs oflocal communidling of evidence at an Oregon impossible, but some living propertycrimes, according to 2 incidentmanagement team major changes to the route ties." State Police crime lab. in theruralareasofEastern the data set. out of Olympia, Washington. for the 2,200 bicyclists who Federally managed forests Nearly 600 criminal cases in Oregonand Washington Sept. 29 started the weeklong event aregrowing atarate of3.3 Crook and Deschutes counties are fed up with the political Sept. 7 in Baker City. billion board feet per year are also undergoingreview in power going to the western Stateoffi cialsare ata Cycle Oregon participants The original schedule called in Oregon, according to the light of the allegations. sideofthestates.The idea crossroads: finishing one will spin through the roaring forridersto spend anightin association, yet only 7 perhas been planted and a group costly fire season while precanyons, rolling hills, jagged Haifway, then ride north on cent of the wood is removed La Grande's revenue has been formed to discuss paringtopay forand prevent peaks and fertile farmland the Wallowa Mountain Loop through logging. That's reraising options may be even the possibility of secession. future ones. of Northeast Oregon and Road to Wallowa Lake for a sulted in years of overgrowth, more limited than the city's Ken Parsons, of La Grande, The Oregon Department of two-night stay them. Western Idaho, which has making the landscape more ad hoc fiscal committee first said he wants the seed Forestry spent more than $74 been threatened by wildfires vulnerable to disease, insects realized. planted in more than just his million fighting fires on state Sept. 14 raging this summer. and large fires. An idea to implement a mind about the rural area of landsin 2015beforereim About 2,200 bicyclists from Oregon's class of 2015 library user fee is now off the Oregon — basically everybursements from federal agenSept. 16 Oregon, 48 other states and turned in a largely stagnant table after the state librarian thingeastofthe Cascades,as cies, according to Tim Keith, 9 countries will take to the performance on the SAT, Eastern Oregon University notified city stafF that the well as Eastern Washington who manages the state's Land — tosecedefrom Oregon to roadsofruralNortheastern results released recently show. is seeing a growing number measure would not be perProtection Fund. The total inOregon as part of Cycle Writing improved two of appli cations forthisyear's missible under Oregon law. become apartofIdaho. cluding federal agencies'costs Oregon's weeklong ride. points from a four-year freshman class, an exciting Implementing a gas tax, was much higher. plateau to reach 496. But prospect forVicePresident another idea explored by the Sept. 25 Sept. 8 Sept. 30 reading fell one point to 518, of Student Services Xavier group, would require a vote The Oregon Ethics ComOregon Trail Electric Coand math fell two points to Romano, though he doesn't of the citizens, a hurdle in mission will move ahead The federal government operativerates aregoing up. arecordlow of516.Allthree want to count his chickens the group'seffortto address with an investigation of unveiled its plan to help OTEC's 23,000-plus sections are scored on a scale before they hatch. the city's general fund ending Buffalo Peak Golf Course the threatened bull trout residential members in of 200 to 600. Romano said EOU has cashbalance shortfall. golf pro Scott Marcum in the recover in the West, including Baker, Harney, Grant and received1,648 applications wake of a complaint filed by reachesofseveralstreams in Sept. 22 Union counties will notice The City of Island City this year, compared to the Union County Commissioner Baker, Union and Wallowa an increase in their monthly is being investigated by 1,424itreceived in 2014. Oregon's bridgesaregetting Jack Howard. counties. deliverc yharge,from $21.56 the Union County SherifFs older, and unless lawmakers Howard filed the comBut a federal official said Sept. 18 to $25.50.Theresidential OIIice because of an alleged can come up with a long-term plaint in May and asserted the plan, although it suggests kilowatt-hour rate will rebudgetshortfallof$43,473, This year is on pace to be funding fix, state highway that Marcum admitted he limits on grazing, leaving "pockets all the money from main the same. which may be connected to a deadly one for drivers on workers worry they won't be more water in streams The increase will be effecreimbursements for quesOregon's roads. abletokeep up with construc- the iJunior Kids) camp," an ratherthan diverting itfor tive in electric bills mailed tionable expenses and use of After fewer peopledied in tion and maintenance. event held during the sumirrigation, and closing roads That's not only a nuisance after Oct. 1. acityfuelcard forpersonal 2013 on Oregon roads than mer at the course. to protect the fish, doesn't purposes. at any time since World War fortravelers,buta burden require the Forest Service Sept. 9 Sept. 26 The focus of the investigaII, the state saw an increase on industry. Deteriorating and other agencies to take A La Grande woman who tion is a former City of Island in 2014 and is on track in bridgesareexpectedtocost A total of 168.25 miles were those steps.
• 0
•
• 0
•
• 0
•
260 — THE OBSERVER
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
OCTOBER Oct. 1 Armed with multiple guns, a 26-year-old man walked into a morning writing class at the community college in Roseburg and opened fire, hitting some students with multiple gunshots. A witness said a teacher was struck in the head. At least nine people were killed by the gunman and seven others were wounded. One witness said the attacker demanded to know students'religion before shooting them on the fourth day of classes at Umpqua Community College.
Tim Mustoe/The Observer
Legislative funding will prepare a 60-acre parcel of tilled farmland on Highway 82 North of Island City called Baum Industrial Park for future industry to be built there.
Oct. 2 An Elginman was found guilty of 14 counts of encouraging child sexual abuse in the first degree last week. Roy Eugene Horn, 62, was also found guilty on two counts of encouraging child sexual abuse in the second degreeat the bench trail.
Oct. 3 The La Grande Fire Department, La Grande Rural Fire and La Grande Police Department responded to a small grease fire that began at approximately 7:05 a.m. at the Long Branch in La Grande, according to La Grande firefighter Merle Laci. Employees of the bar were already waiting outside by the time the fire department arrived on scene, Laci said.
Kelly Ducote/The Observer
State Rep. Greg Barreto speaks to participants of the Eastern Oregon Delegation Tour in Wallowa County on Oct. 27. He and Sen. Bill Hansell brought out five west side Democrats to tour the county. The group also toured the lower Columbia River Basin.
Oct. 24
tI ll IISItai %%QII '4 Illll)85'Itr IIII iil I
Oct. 5 A 60-acre parcel of tilled farmlandmay often go unnoticed by driverstraveling along Highway 82 just outside Island City. But local elected leaders hope legislative funding can turn the land into a shovelready piece of the Baum Industrial Park. Union County Commissioner Mark Davidson said the county is slated toreceive
about$1,066,00 fortheproj-
Madison Falk Photography
Cherise Kaechele/TheObserver
Eastern Oregon University PresidentTom lnsko, left, and Board ofTrustees Chair David Nelson gathered with the other trustees on Oct. 22 for the first meeting in the 2015201 6 school year.
ect,82 percent oftheoriginal request. James Episcopo, a police lieutenant from Brookfield, Illinois, is the Enterprise City Council's choice to head the city'sfour-member police department. On a unanimous vote, councilors picked Episcopo, 56, a 27-year law enforcement veteran, from among three finalists to rebuild a police force decimated by resignations, medical leave and Chief Wes Kilgore's sudden departure in March.
The name of the driver who died in an Oct. 5 headon motor vehicle crash on Highway 82 just outside Island City has been released by the Oregon State Police. The accident claimed the life of Jason Tyler Parsons, 18, of Elgin, according to the OSP. Parsons, a 2014 graduate of Elgin High School, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Oct. 7 La Grande City Council voted 5-1, with Gary Lillard voting against and Mayor Steve Clements absent, to optoutofthe sale and production of medical and recreational marijuana at tonight's meeting. The council also chose to go with the option of discontinuing further discussion in regards to the possibility of opting in after the Oregon Liquor Control Commission adoptstheirproposed regulations next year.
Oct. 8 A fire destroyed a structure holding football and track equipment at the Enterprise High School football
field. The fire also consumed all the footballgear and a large portion of the track and field gear used by the Outlaws football and track teams.
• 0
Union City Council. The request had been made by Mayor Ken McCormack, who had asked for a three-month medical leave. The city council rejected the request because the loss of McCormack would have meant that a seat on the Union City Council would have been vacant for three months, said City of Union Administrator Sandra Patterson.
/
V'
Oct. 19 Dick Mason/TheObserver
Oct. 6
•
Girls in Science participants prepare to create a simulated wildlife habitat on the sand in a stream table on Oct. 24 at Eastern Oregon University. No one was injured in the blaze, but the building and equipment stored there is a total loss. The school canceled its homecoming football game as a result.
prise will be created by the city's Historic Landmarks Commission, with pedestrians using an audio device describing each historic building, its history and its current use. Oct. 10 The city council awarded Smoke continues to be a $1,500 grant to finance the seen in a portion of the project from thecity'sshare 12,763-acre Eagle Complex ofWallowa County Transient ires,10 m ileseastofM edical Lodging Tax funds. Twice a f Springs. year, the citydistributes grants "The smoke will continue to promote tourism and comto be visible in the Sullivan munity projects from the tax Creek area on the east side paid by motels and hotels. of the fire until significant Oct. 15 precipitation is received to extinguish it," said Kathy A federalplan to rehaArnoldus, a fi reinformabilitate 436 square miles of tion officer for the Wallowascorched rangeland in southWhitman National Forest, in western Idaho and eastern a news release. Oregon containing important sage grouse habitat and grazOct. 12 ing landforranchers callsfor The grassroots group spending about $67 million working toward limiting over 5 years. terms for commissioners is The U.S. Bureau of Land one step closer to its goal. Management released the 71-page plan late last week The Union County Citizens for Good Government that includes massive planthas received the approval ingsofgrasses,severaltypes needed to begin gathering of flowering plants known as signatures for term limits, forbs, and shrubs, with more said Jim Mollerstrom, the than $26 million being spent chief petitioner and one of on seeds and seed planting. the group's founders. A self-guided historic walk through downtown Enter-
Bill Rosholt. The ethics complaint, filed in August by local resident EddieGarcia,asserted Rosholt used his influence while a Union County commissioner to secure a job as the director of the Eastern Oregon Workforce Investment Board.
The City of Pendleton will provide more building department services to Wallowa County following action by the county Board of Commissioners. Commissioners renewed two agreements covering building plans review and services of a building ofFicial, then added a third for commercial building inspections.
Oct. 20 No decision was made by the Island City City Council following a sometimes heated hearing conducted to address a long-running dispute involving a local trucking company owned by Jon Fregulia. The city council conducted the hearing to help it determine if a new application by Fregulia for a home occupation conditional use permit should be issued to his company — Oregon Trail Transport — so that he can continue operating his business at his home on Buchanan Lane.
The local group trying to regulate county commissionerterm limits can start collecting signatures countywide today. The Union County Citizens for Good Government, which in 2013 successfully petitioned to have nonpartisancandidates,ison the Oct. 16 move again, working at limitA request for medical leave ing commissioners' terms to was turned down by the no more than eight years, or
• 0
•
The Enterprise High School building, which stored the football and track equipment, was detroyed in a fire Oct. 8. two terms.
Oct. 21 Union County Commissioners moved the opt-out ordinanceto itssecond reading but agreed to leave the topic of marijuana open after the Oregon Liquor Control Commission publishes its regulations. The commissioners have taken public testimony and discussed the issue among themselves about opting out ofthesaleand production of marijuana since July. The ordinancepassed toits second reading on a 2-1 vote, with Commissioner Jack Howard voting against the ordinance, stating it was "badly written."
Oct. 22 The Eastern Oregon UniversityBoard ofTrusteesmet for the first time in the new 2015-2016 school year and, among other items on the agenda, honored the memory of a student by approving an honorary degree posthumously. The boardoftrusteesvoted unanimously to grant Ronn Witcraft, who died last month at age71 after battlingcancer, a bachelor of science degree in media arts and communication — something he had been working very hard on.
Oct. 23 The La Grande School District's enrollment picture, which appeared promising when preliminary figures were released in early September, remains bright. The school district has released its official sixth-week enrollment figures. They indicate that total enrollment is 2,236 students, up 50 from the same time a year ago. The OregonGovernment Ethics Commission elected last week to dismiss a complaint filed against former Union County Commissioner
The annual Girls in Science weekend program at Eastern Oregon University continues to bea bigdraw more than a decade after it started. The secret to the program's longevity is not a mystery, but mystery remains one of its key components. Each year the one-day programintroducesgirlsin grades 6-8 from throughout the region to new elements of the world of science. About 90 girls attended Girls in Science. The middle school students came to do what they always do — solve a mystery.
Oct. 26 The La Grande City Council and city stafFhave given the city manager a thumbsup on his annual evaluation. The council will formally ratify the evaluation Nov. 4 at its regularly scheduled meeting. City Manager Robert Strope's highest marks from the council came in at an averagerating of4.2 outof 5 in the areas of execution of policy, economic development, intergovernmental and outside agency relations and city council relations.
Oct. 27 Elected officials from across the state — and acrossthe aisle— learned a bitabout lifein Northeast Oregon this week. Five state legislators joined Rep. Greg Barreto, RCove, and Sen. Bill Hansell, R-Athena, fora natural resources tour in Wallowa County, following a water and irrigation tour m the lower Columbia River Basin.
Oct. 29 Oregon's wolf population has recovered to thepoint where it no longer needs protection under the state endangered species act, according to the Oregon Department of
Fish & Wildlife. In a staff report, the organization recommends the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission remove gray wolves from the state endangeredspecieslistNov.9 when the commission meets in Salem.
Oct. 30 The future of the Stella
Mayfield School gym, closed for about 18 months for safety reasons, is suddenly much brighter. The Elgin School Districthas awarded a bid of
$189,000 for therepairofthe gym to Mike Becker General Contractor Inc. of La Grande. The gym has been closed since last summer after four ofitsrooftrusseswere found to bein poorcondition.
• 0
•
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
THE OBSERVER —270
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
NOVEMBER Nov. 2
A snow event forecast brought little in terms of precipitation but black ice was reported on parts of Interstate84 west of La Grande. "I think it's been a little bit quiet," said OSP Sgt. Kyle Hove."It hasn't been bad." Just one accident was reported when a single vehicle rolled when it hit ice near Spring Creek.
The La Grande Fiscal Committee may have to cut back on services to address
a $1.7 million shortfall projectedin thecity'sgeneral fund over the next five years. Members of the committee removedcutsto policeofficer and fire positions from the listofpossible avenues for savings, but left a number of options on the table, including eliminating the recreation program, closing the pool for three months each year and making reductions in the Finance Department and within parking and code enforcement.
Nov. 25 Forty-five Union County families received welcome and unforgettable knockson theirdoors earlierthisweek. The families were the Tecipientsofgenerous hands ofassistance from VFW High Valley Post 4060 in Union and the La Grande office of Encompass, a home health service.
s
The United States Department of Agriculture held a meeting regarding the Blue Mountain Forest Plan Revision for the Malheur, Umatilla and Wallowa-Whitman national forests. Many people came, and most had one message: Don't take away the roadsintheforests. The national forests are required to have a management plan enacted by the Forest Service that takes into account physical, biological, economic and other social impacts, according to documents from the USDA.
was not involved in any way. I would not be involved. No, that's my answer." Commissioners Mark Davidson and Steve McClure made no comments on the matter during the meeting.
Nov. 3
Nov. 5
s
/~
'.
Nov. 26 Tim Mustae/The Observer
Union VRN High Valley Post No. 4060 member Darrel Plank, center, retrieves a box filled with food Nov. 25 at a stop in La Grande as fellowVRN member Joe Hart, left, and Encompass Area Manager Kathy Jacobson help with a delivery.
The old Bates Mill site, once a major economic engine in the small town of Wallowa, might serve that purpose again. The 54-acre site on the north edge of town, zoned for industrial use, is up for sale at sealed-bid auction. Although it's not within the city limits, it lies within Wallowa's urban growth boundary, so any development presumably would include annexation to the city. The property, bound by Highway 82, the Wallowa River, Wallowa Union Railroad and other industrial companies, is listed by Realty Marketing/Northwest of Portland with bids due Nov. 18. There is no minimum bid, but a reserve is set at $150,000, meaning bids less than that can be rejected.
mouslyapproved Oregon Trail Transport's conditional use permit. Fregulia's right to operate his trucking company at his home has been challenged for years by Debra and Scott Stevens, who live about 70 yards from Fregulia. The Stevenses, most recently, appealed the city council's decision in October 2014 to allow Fregulia to operate in a residential zone.The appeal went to the Land Use Board of Appeals, which remanded the decision to the city council for further review.
The Union County SherifFs Office wants to make sure the public knows it's a unified department standing behind Sheriff Boyd Rasmussen. A letter released to the public and signed by 14 of the sherifFs deputies showed their support for Rasmussen Nov. 10 by stating there is no "disassociation between deputies People will not be traveland the sheriff of Union ing to Summerville to legally County in light of recent purchase marijuana for attempts that make it seem recreational purposes. as though there may be." The The Summerville City otherdeputiesin the depart- Council voted 3-0 to opt out ment were not available to of Measure 91, the measure signthe letter. voters approved in November 2014 legalizing the possesNov. 6 sion, sale and production of Buffalo Peak Golf Course marijuana in Oregon. Pro Scott Marcum has filed Nov. 11 a tort claim against Union County stemming from the Union High School juniors ethics complaint filed by Kortnee Marriott and Commissioner Jack Howard Delanie Kohr obtained a Nov. 4 to the Oregon Ethics Comheadstonefor the gravesite Despite Commissioner mission in May. of an unknown veteran Jack Howard fighting tooth According to Howard, buried at Union Cemetery. and nail to delay the passing Marcum openly admitted The headstone was dedicated of acomplete opt-out ofthe to pocketing money the golf at a ceremony conducted by sale and production of maricoursereceived from the members of the High Valley juana in the unincorporated Junior Kids Camp tournaVFW Post No. 4060 with the parts of Union County, the ment. Marcum claimed this help of Kohr and Marriott. "It was nice to finally ordinance still passed. was something the county The commissioners voted had agreed on, but no docuhonor him," Marriott said. 2-1, with Howard voting m ents have been found to Union Cemetery records against, to complet ely opt back up that claim. indicate only that the indiout of medical and recreUnion County Commisvidual was a veteran of the ational marijuana sales and sioners Mark Davidson's Indian wars, Marriott said. production. and Steve McClure's names These wars extended until were not on the ethics comaboutthe late 1800s. Union County Sheriff Boyd plaint filed by Howard. Rasmussen claimed a county The tort claim was sent by Nov. 12 department chief made Marcum's attorney, Steven A varietyofinterests contact with a deputy at the Joseph, out of La Grande, to were represented in a Forest behest of county commission- Wyatt Baum, counsel for the Service workshop focused on ersinan effortto encourage county. The accompanying paceand scale ofrestoration the law enforcement officer letterstated that Marcum is of the Blue Mountain forests. "pursuing a claim for damto runfor sheriff. While some of the two Rasmussen delivered ages against Union County." dozen attendees spoke up for his assertions in the form increasingthe paceofrestoNov. 9 of a letter to the County rationefforts,othersatthe Commission at its regular Jon Fregulia will be permeeting voiced concern for session. mitted to operate his truckwater, soils, fish and wildlife Union County Commising company, Oregon Trail in theforests. sioner Jack Howard reacted Transport, at his Buchanan One La Grande resident stronglytothe letter atthe Lane residence under nine toldForest Servicerepresenmeeting. conditions, the Island City tatives and others working "This is stunning," HowCity Council decided. on the Blue Mountain Forest ard said."There's a question Though details of some of Revision Plan that she is at theend ofithe letter)ask- the conditions remain to be concerned with the "voices we're not getting to hear ing the commissioners ... I sorted, the council unani-
from,s specifically birds and
other wildlife that depend on old growth trees.
The state hit 3 million people in 1993, according to U.S. Census Bureau data.
Nov. 13
Nov. 19
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife denied a report that it had confirmed a sighting of wolves chasing elk up a hill just west of La Grande. The denial comes after at least one La Grande radio station published a report that the ODFW confirmed that a herd of elk was chased Nov. 13 above Grande Ronde Hospital between Rooster Peak and Deal Canyon.
An Elgin-area man was sentenced to three consecutive life sentences during a sentencing hearing at the Union County Courthouse. Roy Eugene Horn, 62, was found guilty of 14 counts of encouraging child sexual abuse in the first degree and two counts of encouraging child sexual abuse in the second degree in a two-day bench trial in front of Union County Circuit Court Judge Brian C. Dretke.
Nov. 16
Nov. 27
After submitting a letter to Nov. 20 the Union County CommisThe City of Enterprise is sioners during a public meet- back to square one. ing two weeks ago alleging The city of 2,000, lacking a a county agency head had police chief for eight months, approached one of the sheris looking again for a top cop ifFs deputies and encouraged after its leading candidate him to run for sheriff at the accepted then turned down commissioners' behest, Sher- the job following the sudiff Boyd Rasmussen has to den departure ofhis chief in decide which path he wants Brookfield, Illinois. to take — one,allow a state James Episcopo, the senior government committee to lieutenant in the Brookfield decide if this was an elections Police Department was violation, or two, allow the named interim police chief in county's human resources the Chicago suburb following departmentto decide the mysterious firing of popuwhether a policy had been lar Chief Steven Stelter. breached. Rasmussen has 90 Nov. 23 days to make up his mind. Despite the icy snow State Rep. Greg Barreto is conditions and Thanksgiving askingthe governortorevisit week, the Misener Conferher stance on allowing Syrence Room at the Daniel ian refugees into the state. Chaplin Building was filled A letter to Gov. Kate with concerned community Brown states that Barreto members ready to give their and "many of my constitucomments or support opents" are "extremely opposed position to the Boardman to to your position and are very Hemingway project. concerned for the safety and The tri-company, 300-mile high-voltage transmissecurity of the people in our state." sion line across Idaho and Oregon is a controversial Nov. 17 subject New estimates from Portlocally because of its proland State University say posed route through Union Oregon gained its 4-millionth County. At the meeting, the resident this year. project — headed by Idaho "Reaching 4 million this Power, Bonneville Power year indicates our economy Association and PacifiCorp — was termed an"enviis more than OK," Risa Proehl, a Portland State pop- ronmental disaster" and an"albatross" by some in ulation expert who worked on the estimates, told The attendance. Oregonian. "It means that Nov. 24 our state isattractiveto people." Winter weather ahead of The last such major mileThanksgiving didn't result in stone was in the early 1990s, many accidents in the when Oregon was growing La Grande area, Oregon at rates it hasn't seen since. State Police said.
0
Oregon State Police are no longer analyzing drugs at forensic labs in Pendleton and Bend where an employee allegedly stole and tampered with drug evidence. In a recent letter to district attorneys statewide, Major Andy Heider wrote that the suspension is voluntary and is in response to a criminal investigation into forensic analyst Nika Larsen, 35. The allegationsagainst Larsen have required district attorneysstatewide toreview more than 1,000 open and closed cases on which Larsen had worked.
0 ~
Union voters may be given the opportunity to decide whether the sale of marijuana forrecreationalpurposes is allowed in their city. Mayor Ken McCormack said that the city council will be discussing whether it should give voters the opportumty to declde if Umon should opt out of Measure 91. Approved a year ago by state voters, themeasure legalized the sale and production of marijuanaforrecreational purposes in Oregon.
Nov. 28 Blue Mountain Barbers owner Galen Miller may look a little strange to some for the next month or so. He madetheunfortunate mistake of complaining about his wife dying her bangs pink for breast cancer awareness. A challenge was thrownfor Miller to dye his beard purple. And an agreement was set. It helped that Miller's friend, Sam Royes, agreed
to pay him $500. Miller, however, thought the money wouldbestbe served going to a local charity. Someone else chimed in and suggested the donation go to Shelter From the Storm, the local domestic violence shelter.
Nov. 30 The La Grande Police Department has arrested a rural La Grande man for his alleged involvement in an early November incident in which a Cascadia Doug flag was placed on theroofofa La Grande Urban Renewal Agency-owned building. Ashley OToole, 30, is charged with two counts of second-degreecriminal trespass and one count of thirddegree criminal mischief, all misdemeanors.
0
0
0
i 'U@ )iggi(g Q(g~®
mIIz 50>H S' 0
~
0
'
9
0
0
p •
•
•000
• b •••
Jegp
•000
i
I
I
I
( I
I
•000
280 — THE OBSERVER
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2015
2015: THE YEAR IN REVIEW
DECEMBER Dec. 1 The day may be coming when people will be able to purchase marijuana for recreational purposes in Cove. The Cove City Council left the door open for a recreational marijuana shop to someday operate in Cove when it decided not to opt out of Measure 91. The measure, approved in 2014 by state voters, legalized the sale and production of marijuana forrecreational purposesin Oregon. Cove is the first city in Union County with land where a shop selling recreational marijuana could operatenotto optout.
Courtesy photo
Rescue personnel work to clear Interstate 84 from a log truck accident Dec. 16.
The Union County SherifFs Office released the name of the Elgin man who died in a house fire. The fire claimed the life of Robert Baatz, 79, according to Capt. Craig Ward of Tim Mustoe/The Observer the Union County SherifFs The windsock at the Union County Airport outside La Grande points to the north indicating a strong southerly wind. Office. Baatz was in his resirun between Boardman and dence, a single-wide manuHemingway, Idaho, passing factured home, at 283 N. through Union County. SeventhAve.,when thefire started. The fire was reported Dec. 17 at shortly after 8:30 p.m. Firefighters from the Elgin One man was taken to the Rural Fire Department Union County Jail on Thursarrivedminutes later. day after a 17-mile pursuit on eastbound Interstate 84. Dec. 3 Yan Chen, 44, of Stayton, Fierce winds with gusts was charged with attempting to elude after ignoring approaching 60 miles per hour pounded the Grande the police lights. According to Oregon State Police Sgt. Kyle Ronde Valley and portions of Wallowa County. Hove, Chen was initially The wind blew so hard beingstopped for going too that it knocked out power fast in icy conditions, but he in a portion of La Grande. disregardedthe lights. Power went out at 4:47 a.m. OSP Trooper Robert and wascompletely restored Routt pursued Chen for 17 by 6:03 a.m., according to a Tim Mustoe/The Observer miles until spike strips were Oregon Trail Electric CoopCaution tape wraps around the property at 283 N. Seventh Ave. in Elgin where one deployednear milepost 258, erative news release. person died in a house fire. accordingto the policereport. The top wind gusts reportWhen Chen's vehicle came ed Dec. 3 included one of 57 when the North Powder City the City of North Powder to the next five years. to a controlled stop, the miles per hour at Harl Butte Council discussed whether pass an ordinance opting out officers had a difficult time east of Wallowa Lake at 2:55 the city should opt in or opt of Measure 91. An ordinance Dec. 16 communicating with him bep.m.and one of56 mphin out with regard to Measure will be drafted and the city One North Powder woman cause he spoke only Chinese. Imblerat3:30 a.m.,reported 91. Approved in 2014 by state council will vote on final was taken to the hospital Dec. 18 the Pendleton office of the voters, themeasure legalized adoption of it on Dec. 23. Cit- after a log truck accident on National Weather Service. the sale and production of ies have until late December Interstate84. A local land trust is in marijuanaforrecreational to opt outofM easure 91. According to Sgt. Kyle Hove line to receive $3 million to Nine acres of wooded purposes in Oregon. of the Oregon State Police, a protect the East Moraine of property worth more than City Councilor Ilene Davis Dec. 14 log truck operator was driving Wallowa Lake after Congress $1.5 million on the ecologisaid she would like to see the La Grande's Fiscal Comnear the chain-up area of the agreed to renew the Land cally important west moraine council vote to have the city mittee left its latest meeting westbound lane near mileand Water Conservation of Wallowa Lake are being opt out of Measure 91, which with at least a strong hope post 282 when he suddenly Fund for three more years. preservedthrough effortsof it has until late December to thatitmay be abletoaddress slammed on his breaks to Created in 1965, the the Wallowa Land Trust. do, and then later refer the the city's budget shortfall avoid hitting another semi on LWCF collects fees from Brothers Frank, Steve and issue to the city's voters. without service cuts. the side of the road. The log offshore oil and gas drilling Fred Kimball donated the City Councilor John truck driver, Adam Cole, 25, and uses the money to help Dec. 10 land to the trust to keep it Bozarth came to the meeting out of Pilot Rock, lost control stateand localgovernments in its natural state permaMarijuana may not be in with three ideas that, comofhis trailer and the logs buy, preserve and improve Cove's future after all. nently, Kathleen Ackley, the bined with Urban Renewal spilled out. recreation on natural lands. trust's executivedirector, The Cove City Council, under levies over five years, Cindy Martin, 52, of North The fund was allowed to announced. which on Dec. 1 decided not could save the city from mak- Powder, was standing in expire Sept. 30, but will be eWe didn't want to see the to optoutofM easure 91ing any changes to services. the chain-up area on the revivedaspartofthe federal propertydivided up ordevel- the measurevoters passed in First ofBozarth'sideasis passenger side ofher pickup omnibus spending bill schedoped," said co-owner Frank 2014 thatlegalized the sale to reduce the city's building truck when the trailer of the uledfora vote yesterday or Kimball, a retired physician and production of recremaintenance program, which log truck struck the pickup, today in Washington, D.C. from Walla Walla, Washingational marijuana — may maintains and cleans city which struck Martin. Her Should the bill pass, it ton.'This property was our reconsider its decision. buildings in addition to snow husband, Jeff Martin, 51, of would allocate $450 million parents' dream. They poured Cove Mayor Lyndon Rose and ice removal. The labor North Powder, was standing to the LWCF in 2016 — a their heart and soul into it has called for two special city costforthatprogram, he near another semi on the majorboostoverthecurrent and we're proud to honor meetings where the issue of said, is $68,040. side of the road and dove level of $300 million. The them by making sure it stays marijuana will be discussed Bozarth suggested cutunderneath the semi but was Wallowa Land Trust has the way it is." with the public. ting hours to 19 a week and struck with a log in the knee, alreadyapplied forfunding Featuring1,500 feetof dropping the wage to $15 an according to Hove. through the Forest Legacy shoreline, mature Ponderosa Dec. 11 hour, in addition to making Program to buy 1,533 acres pines and several springs, Marijuana will likely be some savings in benefits. He Nine people were of East Moraine Wallowa the acreage is just north of a hot election topic in North saidthatcould save about appointed to an advisory Lake from a private landthe developed south end of Powder next fall. $50,000 a year, or $250,000 committee for the Boardman owner in order to shield the Wallowa Lake, which would The North Powder City over the next five years. to Hemingway electrical property from development. have madeitdesirablefor Council voted 5-0 to refer Bozarth's last suggestion transmission line project at Dec. 21 development. M easure 91 tothecity'svotinvolves requesting that the the Union County CommisA long-awaTted plan to sell ers in the November 2016 county help fund the library sioners meeting. Dec. 7 general election. at a higher level than it has The commissioners Wallowa Lake water downNorth Powder voters may Measure 91, approved in the past. With an Urban decided to approve the stream from Wallowa County be giventhe chance to decide by voters in 2014, legalized Renewal under levy, Bozarth advisory committee, which to pay for rebuilding the whether the sale of marijuathe sale and production of said, the county would be will meet and take public nearly century-old Wallowa na for recreational purposes marijuanaforrecreational set to gain about $100,000 comment on the multimilLake Dam has hit a snag. lion-dollar project and report is allowed in their city. purposes in Oregon. a year. Half of that, he said, Associated Ditch CompaThis possibility was The motion approved by would alleviate another back to the commissioners. nies, which owns the dam, brought up by councilors the city council also calls for $250,000ofthe shortfallover The proposed B2H line will has withdrawn its water
•>
•
•
+
Dec. 22 No marijuana will be sold legally in Cove for recreational purposes. The Cove City Council passed an ordinance today opting out of Measure 91, the measure Oregon voters passed in 2014 legalizing the sale and production of marijuana for recreational purposes. The ordinance was passed followinga second reading of the ordinance at the council meeting. The first reading of the ordinance was conducted a week earlier. Passage of the ordinance, which took effect immediately because of an emergency clause, means the city will meet the state's late Decemberdeadlinefor opting outof Measure 91.
Dec. 23 After 19 years as county commissioner, Mike Hayward announced he is leavingoffi ce to serve asgeneral manager of Wallowa County Grain Growers in Enterprise. Hayward accepted the job at Wallowa County Grain Growers Dec. 18 and said he is looking to wrap up his time as county commissioner by mid- to late-January. Hayward would have completed his fikh term at the end of 2016. Icyroadsgot thebestof a number ofUnion County drivers today. Numerous slide-offs and at least two injury accidents were reported. "It has been a very busy day, very hectic," said Oregon State Police Sgt. Kyle Hove today. La Grande Rural Fire Chief Larry Wooldridge atlributed the accidents to drivers traveling toofaston deceptively bad road conditions. "Drivers just don't understand how slick it is out here. Therearespotsofice that driversare notseeing,"said W ooldridge, who credited the Oregon Department of Transportation with doing a good job of sanding theroads. Hove said that most of the slide-off soccurred between La Grande and Meacham. The many accidents on I-84 are partly due to heavy preholiday traffic and, of course, icy roads.
• (
•
2 17 0
M a i n St . i B ake r
T ue — Fri 9 a m
•000
right application to the state that would have allowed the rehabilitation so as to raise the lake water level, now at 72 percent of capacity. The lower level has been imposedfor decades by the Oregon Water Resources Department because of the unreinforced-concrete dam's condition.
•000
— 6 pm
C ity
i
5 41- 5 2 3 - 7 7 0 1
S a t 10 a m —5 p m
+stst +++ItMt •000