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North Morrow Volume XXIIII Number 11 June 3, 2016

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BMCC holds groundbreaking ceremony for Boardman bond project

The Splash Pad is now open for the season! The hours of operation are: 9:00 am to 10:00 pm. Please remember to read all the rules, be safe and enjoy the Splash Pad. Photo Contributed

Turning the first shovel full of dirt on BMCC’s Workforce Training Center May 25th in Boardman were (L-R) BMCC Board member Tony Turner; bond project manager Rob Dreier; BMCC Board member Ed Taber; McCormack Construction’s Tyson Furstenberg; BMCC Board member Chris Brown; bond campaign volunteer Louis Carlson; BMCC Board members Susan Plass & Kim Puzey; BMCC President Cam Preus; Port of Morrow Commissioner Jerry Healey and Port of Morrow Executive Director Gary Neal. Photo Contributed

Blue Mountain Community College broke ground on the second of three major construction projects approved by voters in its May 2015 bond measure on Wednesday, May 25. BMCC hosted a groundbreaking ceremony at 2 p.m. Wednesday for the Workforce Training Center on the facility’s future site on property at the Port of Morrow in Boardman, adjacent to the SAGE Center. BMCC President Cam Preus presided and joined Port of Morrow Executive Director Gary Neal, several BMCC Board members and representatives from BMCC’s bond project management firm Frew Development Group and con-

tractor for the project, McCormack Construction for the ceremony. The future Workforce Training Center will house BMCC’s mechatronics, data center technician and early childhood education programs. In addition, it will have classroom space for other classes offered at BMCC. Upon completion of the center, the BMCC Boardman Center will move into the new facility. BMCC students in the early childhood education program will have access to hands-on learning with children at the Early Learning Center, which will be constructed next to BMCC’s Workforce Training Center. The project is expected to be

completed in winter 2017. BMCC will break ground on its third major bond construction project in Pendleton – the Facility for Agricultural Resource Management (FARM) – on June 13 at 2 p.m. on the Pendleton campus. BMCC will also begin work on upgrades to electrical and HVAC systems, as well as natural gas line repairs, this summer. Voters approved BMCC’s $23 million capital construction bond in May 2015, which included all of these projects, as well as additional safety, security and technology improvements, and improvements to the Milton-Freewater Center.

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Community Calendar June 2016 4 Breakfast at the Boardman Senior Center @ 7:30 to 10:30 am 6 Irrigon Senior Meal (each Monday) Stokes Landing in Irrigon - Noon Public Health Clinic (each Monday &Tuesday) 8:30 - 4:30 pm closed 12:30 - 1:00 pm Boardman - County Building Greenfield Grange meeting (2nd Monday of each month) 6 pm potluck, 7pm meeting. 7 Boardman Senior Meal (each Tuesday & Thursday) Noon Senior Center Boardman, located by the City Hall City Council Meeting – 7:15 pm – City Hall 8 Boardman Park & Rec. District construction Meeting (each Wednes.) @ City Hall - 1:30 pm 9 Domestic Violence/Womens Support Group (each Thursday) 4:006:30 pm at SCF Office in Boardman Storyhour (Thursdays) Oregon Trail Library, Boardman @12:30 pm Boardman Rural Fire Protection District Board of Directors meets the (2nd Thursday each month) at 7:00 pm at 300 SW Wilson Lane 15 County Court - Boardman - River Front Center - 9:00 am Boardman Chamber of Commerce Luncheon Noon, Riverfront Center Boardman City Planning Commission - City Hall - 7:00 pm 16 Boardman Kiwanis Meeting (3rd Thursday of each month) at the River Lodge & Grill @ 6:30 am 18 Greefield Grange Breakfast – 7am -10-am – Grange Hall 21 Tillicum Club meets the (3rd Tuesday of each month) @ 7:00 pm 28 Boardman Park & Rec. District Meeting @ Park Office - 6 pm

July 2016 4 4th of July - Boardman’s RIVER of FIRE! 7 Boardman Kiwanis Meeting (1st Thursday of each month at River Lodge & Grill @ 6:30 am)

Riverside Cheerleader chosen to cheer at East/West Shrine All-Star Game Riverside senior cheerleader Alejandra Caldera has been chosen to cheer at the East/West Shrine All-Star Football Game August 6th in Baker City. Once a year, Oregon’s best and brightest Senior football players and cheerleaders from the 1A to 4A high schools meet in Baker City to participate in an all-star football game that is much more than a game. These healthy athletes are participating for the children who are patients of Shriners Hospital for Children. They learn the importance of the game, when they visit Portland Shriners Hospital for Children and meet the children for whom they are playing. This meeting with the children forms bonds between the players and the patients. The players learn how important their contribution is to these

children through interaction and play, leaving the participants with a new understanding of their mission. They participate with a common goal and, although they play on two different teams, they are united in their purpose and are only opponents on the field. Alejandra will visit Portland Shriners Hospital for Children, participate in a parade and other activities in addition to cheering on the East team during the football game. The game will be aired on ROOT Sports Network. Check your local listings for availability. Congratulations Alejandra!

Photo right: RHS Cheerleader Alejandra Caldera (standing) will participate at the East/West Shrine All-Star Football Game in August. Photo Contributed

Columbia River Community Health Services PLEASE SEND YOUR COMMUNITY CALENDAR ITEMS TO: North Morrow Times, P. O. Box 907 Boardman, OR 97818

Some of our services include: Well Baby/Child Exams Childhood/Adult Immunizations Sports Physicals Men’s and Women’s Health Exams CDL Physicals Pre-employment Drug Screening Chronic Disease Managment Flu Shots Limited Access to Dental Care Sliding Scale Fee Arrangements Flu Shots

North Morrow Times

Co-Editors: Jane Pope (541) 481-7354 Lynn Prag (541) 571- 3071

Mike Sermon PA-C

Hablamos Espanol We accept most major insurance plans including Medicare and Oregon Medicaid 450 Tatone Street * Boardman * Open Monday 7:30 am - 7:00 pm, Tuesday - Friday 7:30 am - 5 pm

Email: lprag@centurytel.net

P. O. Box 907, Boardman, OR 97818

On the Web: http://issuu.com/northmorrowtimes A monthly free publication for the promotion of community news and service in Boardman and Irrigon. Published on the first Friday of each month; ad and copy deadlines are the previous Monday of each month.

Steve Maher, MD

David Collins, PA-C

Kris Helphinstine, PA-C

Call : 541-481-7212 for your appointment

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Free concert series in Boardman and Irrigon begins June 13 The cities of Boardman and Irrigon will begin their FREE Music in the Parks outdoor summer concert series Monday, June 13th. The first performer of the year will be local favorite Dallin Puzey at the Boardman Marina Park, located off of N. Main Street on Marine Drive. Dallin Puzey, who has a home recording studio in

Hermiston, distributes his music via the internet and performs live throughout the area. He can also be seen in a promotional video produced by the Hermiston Chamber of Commerce. This singer/ songwriter describes his music as light rock, although on his YouTube channel, he can also be heard performing the likes of Hank

(Above) Dallin Puzey kicks off the 10 concert season June 13 at Boardman Marina Park. (Below) 98% Angels performs June 20 at Irrigon Marina Park. Each performance is FREE!

Williams and Johnny Cash, as well as his own song “U-Co. Blues”. Dallin is self-taught on most of the instruments he plays, including the guitar, piano and harmonica. Much of his time is spent in the recording studio writing and studying. Puzey plans to record a full-length album by June of 2017. 98% Angels will perform on June 20th at the Irrigon Marina Park,

country music in the Northwest as a solo artist and band front man for over 15 years. Zac has had a hand in writing nearly 40 songs including, “If I Had My Way” which went to #1 on the Independent charts in 1999. Since recording his first single at age 14, he has won several awards, has shared the stage with various country legends, and has appeared on numerous radio shows. He continues to be highly recognized in the Columbia River Gorge music community. The Music in the Parks outdoor summer concert series is held each summer alternating between Boardman and Irrigon Marina Parks. The concerts are free to the public and begin at 7 p.m. on Monday nights. The 2016 concert series runs through to August 22nd. Visitors are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets. Concessions will be available for purchase at the event, courtesy of Judy’s Chuck Wagon. The series is funded by the Morrow County Unified Recreation District and Portland General Electric and sponsored by the North Morrow Community Foundation. For more information about the Music in the Parks concert series, conPopular Country singer Zac Grooms performs June 27 at Boardman tact Tami at 541-571-0844. Marina Park. Photos Contributed located off Highway 730 in Irrigon. The duo, made up of musicians Marie Rose and Renate Meakins, sing a mix of tunes from the big band swing era, hits from the ‘50s and ‘60s and popular contemporary and country songs. Country singer Zac Grooms will perform on June 27 th at the Boardman Marina Park. Grooms has been writing and performing

Welcome to Lexington Pump LLC Sales Service Installation Trenching Available & Solar Pumping Systems www.lexingtonpump.com 541-989-8448 Cell-Sam: 541-561-8881 Fax: 541-989-8567 P.O. Box 626, Lexington , OR 97839 CCB# 199519

Who we are: · Full Service pump installation and repair from well to pressure tank for both agriculture and domestic applications. · A local dealer and installer of the best solar pump package in the market today. · Installation of pipe lines, cisterns and complete water systems for most applications. · Full line of excavation equipment for your excavation needs. · We do well rehabilitation for increased water supply and bacterial growth problems.

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Irrigon teacher honored

Lenn Greer was honored for his dedication, passion and commitment to the futures of the young men and women of Photo Contributed Morrow County. Irrigon teacher and FFA advisor, Lenn Greer, was honored at the annual Morrow County FFA Chapter banquet on Friday evening. Lenn was honored for his dedication, passion, and commitment to the futures of the young men and women of Morrow County. Growing up in Irrigon, Lenn returns home with the experience and education as follows; an AAOT degree at Blue Mountain Community College, a BS in Ag education at University of Idaho, and a masters in teaching at Oregon State University. His experience began in 1995 until 2003 in Jefferson, Oregon. In 2006, he made his return to Irrigon teaching horticulture, Ag

science, welding, and Ag mechanics. FFA is his passion. He has dedicated his time and effort into building one of the finest FFA programs in Eastern Oregon. Lenn was thanked by the 80+ guests at the banquet, for the countless hours he volunteers to programs, fundraisers, and competitions and to kids, neighbors, and friends. He continues to give, not only of himself, but also his resources and knowledge. Lenn received a standing ovation, and thanks, from all who attended. From all of Morrow County, thanks to Lenn Greer for all that you do.

City of Irrigon Offers Average (Flat) Billing In today’s fiscal environment it is easier knowing what bills are due and how much. The City of Irrigon is offering a program that will allow customers to better manage their monthly budgets. Why not pay the same every month with Average Billing. What is Average Billing: The Average Billing plan allows members to pay the average of the past 12 months of usage. An estimated annual bill is divided by 12 months to calculate the initial monthly bud-

get bill amount, which is subject to adjustment. This option is perfect for people who don’t want to guess what their monthly payment will be and it eliminates large fluctuations between winter and summer bills. It’s an amount customers can count on when doing their home budget planning. To see if you qualify or for more information please contact City Hall at 541-922-3047 or manager@ci.irrigon.or.us

Greenfield Grange Breakfast Saturday, June 18th * 7 - 10 am Adults - $5.00 Under 10 - $2.50 Call Jessie for carry out breakfast at 541-720-7267

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Boardman considers new multi-purpose building At their May 3, 2016 council meeting, Boardman City Councilors reviewed site plans for a multi-purpose building proposed by Boardman resident Lisa Mittelsdorf. Ms. Mittelsdorf has been raising funds for construction of a 6000 square-foot steel building for public use for a variety of purposes; including team sports practices, and group trainings. She said there is a need for such a building due to the amount of use the high schoolâ€™s multi-purpose building gets. She points out that some sports teams do not get practice time at the high schools facility until 9:00pm due to scheduling issues. Ms. Mittelsdorf proposes the building be constructed on cityowned property, either behind the city hall building or on NE Front Street near the Splash Pad Park. She has asked the city to consider the location of the building and assume ownership when the building is complete. The council has tabled a decision until their June 7th meeting when a full council can hear the proposal. In other city business, the council decided to allow dumping of 200,000 gallons of gray water into the cityâ€™s wastewater lagoons by the contractor cleaning equipment on the new PGE Carty Generation Plant. The next Boardman City Council meeting will be Tuesday, June 7, 2016 at 7pm at the Boardman City Hall Council Chambers.

Public Notice Budget Hearings The City of Boardman will be conducting two hearings on Tuesday, June 7, 2016. The hearings are for the City of Boardman 2016-2017 Budget and the Boardman Urban Renewal 2016-2017 Budget. The Urban Renewal Hearing will begin at 6:45pm and the City of Boardman Hearing will begin at 7:00pm. Both meetings will be held at Boardman City Hall.

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Students from three counties win annual spelling contests Pendleton & La Grande – Thirtyone students from three counties participated in the Annual Spelling Contest sponsored by the InterMountain Education Service District (IMESD) earlier this month. Students from Morrow and Umatilla counties participated in their county contests on May 2 at Blue Mountain Community Col-

grades). At the county contests, students took a 35-word written test. First through third places were selected in each of the three divisions. An awards ceremony immediately followed, with winners receiving medals. The first place winner from each division is invited to participate in the state competition, which occurs on the Saturday of Labor Day weekend in Salem at the Oregon State Fair. “IMESD is pleased to congratulate all of our spelling contest winners and would like to Morrow Division 1, L-R: Mylee Quilter (3rd), thank all the Braden Atkins (2nd), Jackson Coiner (1st) students Photo Contributed who delege, while Union county students voted time to compete this year,” competed on May 3 at the library said Lizette Berryessa, IMESD spelling contest coordinator. in La Grande. For more information about the The InterMountain Education Service District (IMESD) sponsors spelling contest, contact Berryessa at 541-966-3126 or the spelling contests each year. The students who competed in the lizette.berryessa@imesd.k12.or.us. county competitions had already Below is a list of the winners by won a spelling contest in their di- county. vision at their schools. There are Morrow County Winners three divisions: Division 1 (1st-5th Division 1 grades), Division 2 (6th-8th 1st Place: Jackson Coiner, Heppner grades) and Division 3 (9th-12th Elementary

2nd Place: Braden Atkins, Irrigon Elementary 3rd Place: Mylee Quilter, Windy River Elementary Division 2 1st Place: Jorden Sweeney, Heppner Jr/Sr High 2nd Place: Serenity Rodriguez, Ione Community School 3rd Place: Hannah Green, Heppner Elementary Division 3 1st Place: Demitra Schmidt, Heppner High Umatilla County Winners Division 1 1st Place: Katelyn Rigby, Pilot Rock Elementary 2nd Place: McKenna Hillman, Highland Hills Elementary 3rd Place: Tad Farley, Rocky Heights Elementary Division 2 1st Place: Max Breiling, Sunridge Middle School 2nd Place: Zoe Russell, Echo School 3rd Place: Oliver Rodriguez, Armand Larive Middle School Union County Winners Division 1 1st Place: Zoe Brown, Imbler Charter School Division 2 1st Place: Brendan Colwell, Imbler Charter School 2nd Place: Ian Adams, Stella Mayfield Elementary School (Elgin) Division 3 1st Place: Gavin Eddy, Imbler Charter School

Summer Bike Camp for Children with Disabilities seeks riders and volunteers HERMISTON – The iCan Bike program is looking for riders and volunteers for its upcoming bicycle camp this summer in Hermiston. iCan Shine is a non-profit organization that teaches individuals with disabilities to ride a conventional two-wheel bicycle through its iCan Bike program. This fiveday camp, requiring riders to attend one 75-minute session per day, will take place at Armand Larive Middle School in Hermiston June 26 – July 1, 2016. A parent and volunteer orientation is held on Sunday afternoon, June 26. iCan Shine/iCan Bike collaborates with local organizations to host camps in their communities. This camp is being hosted by the Hermiston School District, Hermiston Kiwanis and the InterMountain ESD. The program uses adapted equipment, trained professionals and volunteers. With 75 minutes of instruction over five days, over 80 percent of riders learn to ride a

conventional bicycle independently by the end of camp. One participant from 2015 said, “The gift of being able to ride is the best experience I’ve ever experienced in my life. When I ride I feel free, like I can do anything!” To be eligible to enroll, riders must be at least eight years old, have a disability and be able to walk without an assistive device such as a walker or cane. Riders must be able to side-step quickly to both sides, and must have a minimum inseam measurement of 20 inches and weigh no more than 220 pounds. Cost of the camp is $99 and the camp is open to all individuals who meet registration requirements, regardless of where they live. To register, please visit www.imesd.k12.or.us/iCanBike to download the registration form and learn more about the iCan Bike program. For additional information, please email icanbikeeo@hotmail.com.

City of Irrigon Watermelon Festival The City of Irrigon will hold its annual Watermelon Festival on Saturday, July 30, 2015. There are many exciting events that will take place all day long between 6:30 a.m. running through 12:00 p.m. A great community event where funds raised go to benefit various areas across the community of Irrigon (graduating scholarships, Cooley Sports Complex, Senior Center, Food Baskets Program, Flags for Events, and many other items). This year there is an array of donated items that will be raffled. Buy your 50/50 raffle tickets at many of

the local businesses or on festival day and say thank you to the many local sponsors. Events and opportunities taking place at the Irrigon Marina Park. · Breakfast begins at 6:30 a.m., a hearty breakfast served for a nominal price. · The Annual Parade kicks off at 10:00 a.m. and runs down NE Main Avenue. A time for kids, parents and parade lovers alike. · 11:00 a.m. is the Opening Ceremony at the Irrigon Marina Park Band Stand.

· On-going Raffle items throughout the day. · For the remainder of the day an array of games, contest, vendors (local and out-of-town) and multiple food vendors, besides our hometown food shack, will be available. Bring the whole family for great fun, and enjoyment on the bank of the beautiful Columbia River. For more information please contact Renee Couchman at 541922-1560 or Aaron Palmquist, City Manager at manager@ci.irrigon.or.us

Stop Biting Mosquitoes! “Protect Yourself and Your Family” By Eliminating Standing Water Around Your Home & Farm! “Fight The Bite” North Morrow Vector Control District at 541-481-6082 http://nmvcdmosquito.org Like us on facebook

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BMCC News Summer term at Blue Mountain Community College will begin June 20 with an abbreviated selection of class offerings. Summer Term hours for BMCC Boardman are yet to be determined but plans call for the office to be open at least a couple evenings a week to serve the needs of on-site and distance education students needing tests proctored or assistance in other ways.

Summer is the time for students planning to start at BMCC in the Fall to get their academic affairs in order. BMCC Boardman can help with assistance with financial aid and other admission documents and procedures. Limited academic advising is also offered. Please call or stop by the office for more details. The phone number is 541-4812099 or email is amorter@bluecc.edu.

Oregon Trail Library Boardman Branch NEW BOOKS FOR MAY, 2016 The Bitter Side of Sweet, Tara Sullivan A Girl’s Guide to Moving on, Debbie Macomber, CD Audiobook War hawk : a Tucker Wayne novel, James Rollins The Quality of Silence, Rosamund Lupton, Large Print The Big Short, DVD You Are Dead, Peter James, Large Print This Old Man : All in Pieces, Roger Angell, Large Print Off the grid, C. J. Box, Large Print Clawback, Judith A. Jance Dear Mr. You, Mary-Louise Parker, Large Print Poor Man’s Feast : A love story of comfort, desire, and the art of simple cooking, Elissa Altman, Large Print Miller’s Valley, Anna Quindlen, CDE Audiobook & Large Print But Enough About Me : A Memoir, Burt Reynolds, Large Print Raging Sea, Michael Buckley Bone Gap, Laura Ruby Presence : Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges, Amy Joy Cuddy, CD Audiobook Carry On, Rainbow Rowell, CD Audiobook Drowned City : Hurricane Katrina & New Orleans, Don Brown NOTE: Patrons can always access the catalog at http://oregontrail.ploud.net/ and search for new books in our district or within the entire Sage system. Books requested from member libraries arrive within 5-10 days absolutely free for the patron.

Agritourism Workshop coming in June! BOARDMAN, OREGON__Have you considered adding a farm stand, farm tour, hunting or camping, event venue or lodging to your farm, ranch or garden business? The Eastern Oregon Visitors Association and Northeast Oregon Economic Development District are partnering with Travel Oregon, the state tourism agency, to offer a free agritourism development workshop, June 21 & 22. Travel Oregon is bringing experts from across the state as well as tapping the knowledge of people within the region. If you have attended their tourism studios or other activities, you know how beneficial it will be. Get inspired and learn how to plan your project, navigate the county and state regulations and permitting, and gain the most from your marketing dollars and efforts. Hear about best practices and examples from successful operations, and discover how to be ready for visitors. The curriculum has been

developed with input from the Umatilla and Morrow County agritourism project working group and is certain to be of value to people just starting or those with an established agritourism business. The workshop takes place in Boardman and Hermiston. It begins June 21 at 1 p.m., at the Port of Morrow office in Boardman, includes a networking event at SAGE Center that evening and continues at 8 a.m. at the new Eastern Oregon Trade & Event Center in Hermiston. The free workshop is part of a year-long agritourism development project in Umatilla and Morrow Counties. The project is funded in large part by a Rural Business Enterprise Grant from USDA, administered by Northeast Oregon Economic Development District. Lunch, snacks and beverages are provided. Please contact

Sponsored by: Boardman Tire Factory FFA has been a major part of Wayne Killion’s high school experience. It has opened doors to travel, enhanced his leadership and career related skills, and improved him overall as a person. Wayne has received his State FFA Degree, and has been a district officer for the Blue Mountain District for the past two years. “FFA has prepared me for college and the workforce more than anything else,” Wayne Killion

Closed Closed 10-2 lunch 3-8 10-2 lunch 3-8 12-5 12-5 10-2 Boardman

Budget Committee at 6 pm, Board meeting, 7 pm, 3rd Wednesday each month at rotating locations: * June 15 Boardman

Janet Dodson, Eastern Oregon Agritourism Development Project Coordinator, 541-786-8006 or janetd@eoni.com, for more information on the presenters and course agenda, and register online at Industry.traveloregon.com/ ruggedcountryATS. Pre-registration is required so we have an accurate count for handouts and meals. Travel Oregon has earned national recognition for its innovative marketing campaigns and strategies, and their statewide network of private and public collaborative partnerships is well known across the United States. This workshop is your opportunity to learn about their cutting edge methods and find your fit within the various partnerships and opportunities for crossmarketing. Meet your counterparts from throughout Oregon and get to know the tourism team from around Oregon and right next door.

FFA Student of the Month

Oregon Trail Library District branches will begin Sensory Storytimes for children ages birth thru 4 and their caregivers. These storytimes will incorporate music, rhymes, play, rhythm, and stories into an early literacy storytime. The national American Library Association Every Child Ready to Read program emphasizes talking, singing, reading, writing, and playing as activities to develop skills that will help children learn to read. OTLD branch libraries have scheduled storytimes at each branch. Irrigon branch, Tuesday 10:30, Boardman branch Thursday at 12:30 and at the Heppner branch Thursday at 12:00. Please call the libraries with any questions, or visit the website http://oregontrail.ploud.net/ for more information. Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

June 3, 2016

Boardman L-R Wayne Killion and FFA teacher Lenn Greer

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June 3, 2016

Boardman Park Summer Recreation Program begins June 20

Be sure your kids or grandkids show up for Boardman Park & Recreation District’s popular Summer Recreation Program. For children ages 5 - 12, Funtastic Kidz begins June 20th and runs to July 21st. The free program is offered Monday through Thursdays, from 8:30 - 11:30 am and free bussing is provided. A bus schedule will be available at signups, which will be at the first day of the program at Boardman Marina Park, Harold Baker Pavilion in the Day Use area. The program is free and many themes have been developed to hold active kids’ interests. They will learn about water safety, enjoy the Park’s water slide (always a popular activity on hot days!), learn about fireworks safety and create many arts and crafts projects. The Teen Summer Recreation Program is scheduled for the same dates (6-20 to 7-21) 1:15-4 pm and

will ensure plenty of free entertainment for those ages 12 to 17. Always enjoyed are the water safety classes utilizing the canoes, paddleboats, kayaks and of course the huge water trampoline! The Recreation team says they also plan to include bowling, boating, laser tag, and sessions for skate boards, roller blades and BMX bikes. The teens can register the first day of activities, June 20th at the Park Office. The dates for swimming lessons will be June 13 - 16; the lessons will be held at the Hermiston Aquatic Center . Free bussing to Hermiston from the Park Office will be included in the cost of the lessons, which is $45. All lessons are given by a Red Cross certified instructor. Watch for posters around town and handouts will be given to children at the schools. Check out Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/ boardmanrvpark

Photos, clockwise beginning top left: The blow-up water slide is always popular! Water safety in canoes and kayaks is featured in the teen program. Ice skating for the first time brought lots of smiles! The teens LOVED the water trampoline!

SUMMER RECREATION PROGRAM FUNtastic Kidz Ages 5 - 12 June 20 - July 21, 8:30 am to 11:30 am, Monday thru Thursday Free Bussing! Signups at first session you attend. Free Lunch Daily

Teen Summer Recreation Ages 12 - 17 June 20- July 21, 1:15 pm to 4:00 pm, Monday thru Thursday Free Lunch Daily

Swim Lessons June 13 - June 16 * 10 am - Noon Call for more information: 481-7217, ask for Recreation Dept. Cost: $45/child, includes FREE bussing to & from Hermiston Family Aquatic Center Sponsored by Boardman Park & Recreation District

The Teen Summer Recreation Program participants enjoy the many water toys that Boardman Park has for their use. Kayaks, canoes, paddleboats, and this water trampoline get plenty of use during the hot summer afternoons. Photos Contributed

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June 3, 2016

Oregon Trail Library District welcomes storyteller Rick Steber

The Ground Breaking Ceremony for the Boardman Recreation Center was held on May 12th. The long-awaited indoor swimming pool, double basketball court gymnasium, weight training room, aerobics room and rock climbing wall is scheduled to be completed and open next May.

Chamber to hold Annual Meeting Noon June 15th Join us Wednesday, June 15 at noon at the Port of Morrow Riverfront Center for a look back at 2015 and a look forward for the rest of 2016! Lunch is $12. Please call 4813014 to RSVP by next Friday, June 10! Thanks to the following for making our May Education Breakfast a success! Dirk Dirksen, Superintendent for Morrow County School District and others who talked about the wraparound services being offered to our students. And thanks to those who donated professional attire to Blue Mountain Community College’s Career Clothing Closet. Congratulations to Edith Velasco for winning the door prize and to Don Russell for winning the 50/50 pot. He donated his portion to the Chamber’s scholarship fund.

SECOND TIME AROUND Thrift & Antiques

541-289-1011 80868 N Hwy 395, Hermiston, OR Open Tues.-Sat 9 am to 5 pm Sunday 10 am to 4 pm We now have consignment booths

Popular author Rick Steber will present an evening of stories at Oregon Trail Library, Irrigon Branch on June 25th. Photo Contributed Popular award-winning author, Rick Steber, can tell a story like few others can. Among the stories he tells are of a blind horse trader, an Indian who rides horseback 400 miles to attend and compete at an early-day Pendleton Round-Up, a man who dramatically gives the last violin he will ever make to his son, and a high climber injured in a tragic accident. The voices are the voices of the characters, and listeners are swept away by Steber’s performance as he makes the real west

comes alive. Rick Steber lives in Eastern Oregon, has written more than 40 books and has sold more than a million copies. He is the only Oregon writer to have won the prestigious Western Writers Spur Award, in addition to winning numerous other national awards. This is an evening you will not want to miss, an evening the entire family will long remember and talk about. Autograph session will follow.

WHEN – Saturday, June 25th 4:00pm WHERE – Oregon Trail Library District, Irrigon Branch 490 E Main Street Irrigon, OR 97844 FREE to everyone Sponsored by the Oregon Trail Library District and Friends of the Irrigon Library

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June 3, 2016

IMESD Announces 2016 Crystal Apple Award Winners

2016 Crystal Apple winners are: L-R Pat King, Brenda Kittelson, Jody Marston & Barbara Phillips. PENDLETON– The InterMountain largest providers of regional P-20 Superintendent: Jim Reger Education Service District services and enjoy a strong col- Jacque Fox (3rd Grade Teacher, (IMESD) is proud to announce the laborative relationship. The two Athena Elementary School) winners of the 2016 Crystal Apple entities share staff and resources Sara Tucker (Secretary, Athena El“Excellence in Education” Awards. for 11-14 programs including ementary School) A total of 45 individuals will be RACs, Hubs, professional devel- Echo School District honored this month from the opment, event hosting, CTE, East- Superintendent: Raymon Smith IMESD’s component school dis- ern Promise, facilities and commu- Jessica Rist (Counselor, Echo High tricts in eastern Oregon. The 2016 nication. This cooperation pro- School) events mark the 17th Annual Crys- vides improved access to educa- Brandi Russell (Math/P.E. Teacher, tal Apple “Excellence in Education” tional opportunities for families and Echo High School) Awards for Umatilla and Morrow increased student achievement. Helix School District counties and the 5th Annual for “BMCC is known for its top-level Superintendent: Darrick Cope staff and instructional programs. Victoria Fox (Kindergarten Teacher, Union County. Union County winners were They are always eager and willing Helix Elementary School) honored on May 9 at Eastern Or- to problem solve, share staff and Don Rydrych (Reading Buddies egon University in La Grande and think outside the box to serve more Volunteer, Helix Elementary School) Morrow and Umatilla county win- effectively. We truly appreciate Ione School District ners will be honored on May 17 at their commitment to forging last- Superintendent: Phil Starkey ing relationships with all organiza- Tara Proudfoot (Student Support, the Red Lion Hotel in Pendleton. Each year, the IMESD partners with tions,” said Mark Mulvihill, IMESD Ione Community School) Betty Rietmann (Reading Volunits school districts to recognize superintendent. Finally, at the Pendleton awards teer, Ione Community School) outstanding administrators, teachers, educational assistants and of- ceremony, the IMESD and Mid Milton-Freewater Unified School fice and building staff for their dedi- Columbia Bus Company will rec- District cation and commitment to students ognize the winner of the annual Superintendent: Dr. Rob Clark and for their willingness to go Doug Flatt Memorial Leadership Sarah Ensunsa (Reading Intervenabove and beyond their regular Award. This award honors an out- tion Teacher, Ferndale Elementary duties. Nominations are submitted standing school district adminis- School) over a two-month period by admin- trator from a Mid Columbia Bus Jose Garcia (Lead Custodian, istrators, coworkers, parents, stu- Company school district—some- Freewater Elementary School) dents and community members. one who displays exemplary lead- Caryn Houchin (Secretary, Ferndale Elementary School) Winners are selected from these ership and service. The 2016 Crystal Apple Awards Brenda Thomas (Language Arts nominations by school district adare sponsored by the IMESD, Teacher, Central Middle School) ministration. “We are excited to congratulate Allen Farms, Bank of Eastern Or- Morrow County School District each of our Crystal Apple winners egon, Capps Broadcast Group, CHI Superintendent: Dirk Dirksen this year and are appreciative of St. Anthony Hospital, First Com- Pat King (Special Education their commitment to make a differ- munity Credit Union, Mid Colum- Teacher, Riverside Jr/Sr High ence every day for students,” said bia Bus Company, Red Lion Hotel School) Michele Madril, IMESD communi- Pendleton, Rotary Club of Brenda Kittelson (1st Grade Pendleton and Wheatland Insur- Teacher, A.C. Houghton Elemencations specialist. tary School) In addition to the Crystal Apple ance. Jody Marston (Registrar, Riverside 2016 Crystal Apple Winners Awards on May 17, the IMESD will Jr/Sr High School) also name the recipient of the 2016 Umatilla/Morrow County Community Partner Award, which Were recognized on Tuesday, May Barbara Phillips (Head Secretary, is Blue Mountain Community Col- 17 at the Red Lion Hotel, Pendleton Irrigon Elementary School) lege. BMCC and IMESD are the two Athena-Weston School District

Calling all Morrow County Cultural, Arts, Historic and Literary Organizations The Morrow County Cultural Coalition funded by Oregon’s Cultural Trust Foundation is now accepting proposals for the next grant period. Categories for qualifying groups or projects are: literary, historical preservation, visual and performing arts, or humanities and cultural organizations. Last year, grants were awarded to: Irrigon and Boardman Elementary schools Artist in Residence, Morrow County Historical Society Chronicles, Obo Addy Legacy African Drumming workshops and assemblies, Idaho Shakespeare Festival theater performances and Hampstead Stage Co. Grants in the past have included quilting and art groups, art displays, historical library books, cultural entertainment structures and kid’s activities for parks. The Coalition invites you to submit completed Funding Proposal Request Forms to the Morrow County Cultural Coalition by

August 1, 2016. Complete guidelines and grant applications for 2017 can be obtained by contacting Susan Russell at 541-481-4277 or email smsel@hotmail.com. Proposals must meet criteria noted on the application and include a timeline with project to be completed no later than October 15, 2017. Funding for the Morrow County Cultural Coalition originates from contributions and donations to the Oregon Cultural Trust Foundation. To learn more about supporting culture in Oregon, through the Trust, visit www.culturaltrust.org. Ideas and suggestions for fun cultural activities in Oregon from concerts and theater to workshops and museums can be found at: www.oregonculturefieldguide.org. Help bring ideas and programs to Morrow County. Grants can be awarded up to 50% of total project cost.

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Page 11 North Morrow Times

KEVA planks arrive at local public libraries

Chloe, Daniel, and Nathan Sinnett, Boardman patrons, are busy Photo Contributed creating with the KEVA planks. KEVA Planks are now available at all 12 public libraries in Umatilla County, the Cook Memorial Library in La Grande, Enterprise Public Library and the Oregon Trail Library District. LEO (Libraries of Eastern Oregon) purchased the planks for the libraries with grant funds provided by the Wildhorse Foundation. Funds from the Community Outreach Committee of Cayuse Technologies were also used to purchase the planks for Umatilla County and Oregon Trail libraries. Each set of KEVA (Knowledge, Exploration, Visual, Arts) Planks come in a wooden bin with handles/wheels and 1,000 maple planks 5 x 1½. The planks are designed for stacking and layering in endless formations – from simple play for young children to complex towering structures by students and adults without using glue or connectors, just gravity and imagination. KEVA planks transform libraries into engaging, interactive, community learning places. The planks serve as a gateway to math, science, and physics and can be used

by any age. The planks provide an innovative approach to connect and energize young persons and encourage interest in science, math, and open-reasoning. Library Directors are reporting a great response to the addition of the planks. Kathy Street, Oregon Trail Library District Director, reported the planks have seen a lot of use at the Boardman Branch. They are most popular with the middle school patrons. They have been building complex towers. Currently the planks are at the Boardman Branch and will be circulating to the Heppner and Irrigon Branches in the near future. The mission of LEO is to create and deliver 21st century public library services for 50 libraries in eastern Oregon. LEO is governed by an 8-member board of directors. The organization has a long track record of bringing exemplary community programs to rural communities and in assisting libraries with their internal needs such as database services, collection development and infrastructure.

Riverside Gridiron Club has a few fundraising events: 4-man golf scramble on June 11 at Willow Run Golf Course. $200/team. Dinner/Auction on July 23, 2016 at the Port of Morrow Tickets are presold for $10.00 and $15.00 at the door Proceeds Benefit Football Program K-12

June 3, 2016

Bank of Eastern Oregon among 200 top performing banks in nation American Banker magazine has ranked two Oregon banks among the top 200 community banks in the country. The magazine, a trade publication based in New York City, named Summit Bank of Eugene, OR; Baker Boyer Bancorp of Walla Walla, WA; Cashmere Valley Bank of Cashmere, WA; BEO Bancorp of Heppner, OR; U&I Financial Corp of Lynnwood, WA; Sound Financial Bancorp of Seattle, WA; and FS Bancorp of Mountlake, WA to the list based on average return of shareholder equity between 2013 and 2015. Banks with less than $2 billion in assets were eligible. At 13.54% average return, Summit Bank ranked 20; with a 12.22% average return, Baker Boyer Bancorp ranked 33; Cashmere Valley Bank was 54 at 11.56%; at 11.18% BEO Bancorp ranked num-

ber 68; U&I Financial Corp ranked 146 at 9.49%; Sound Financial Bancorp ranked number 188 at 8.82%; and FS Bancorp ranked No. 191 at 8.77%. “We are extremely pleased with the recognition in American Banker magazine. We find ourselves in the company of some of the best run and most admired banks in the nation.” said Jeff Bailey President and CEO of Bank of Eastern Oregon. “This is testimony to the dedication of our employees and the tremendous support of our customer base. We are proud of our track record serving eastern Oregon communities for over 71 years and are delighted to be the one of only two banks located in Oregon that can make the claim of being in the top 200 community banks in the country,” concluded Bailey. For further information on the Company or to access internet

banking, please visit our website at www.beobank.com. About BEO Bancorp BEO Bancorp is the holding company for Bank of Eastern Oregon, which operates 13 branches and five loan production offices in eleven eastern Oregon and one eastern Washington counties. Branches are located in Arlington, Ione, Heppner, Condon, Irrigon, Boardman, Burns, John Day, Prairie City, Fossil, Moro, and Enterprise, Oregon, and Pasco, Washington; loan production offices are located in Ontario, Pendleton, Island City, Lakeview, and Madras, Oregon. Bank of Eastern Oregon also operates a mortgage division, and operates a branch under the name of Bank of Eastern Washington. The bank’s website is www.beobank.com.

Representative Smith helps bring committee tasked to draft major transportation package to District 57 Public hearing scheduled on June 29th in Hermiston HEPPNER, Ore. – Today Representative Greg Smith (R-Heppner) annoaunced he was successful in working with House leadership to have District 57 listed as one of the nine locations where the Joint Committee on Transportation Preservation and Modernization will visit and hold public hearings. The committee is scheduled to hold a public hearing on June 29th at 2:00 pm in the Hermiston High School Auditorium. All are invited to attend. The Joint Committee on Transportation Preservation and Modernization was announced last month and tasked to develop a significant comprehensive and strategic transportation package for

the Legislature to consider during the 2017 Legislative Session. Smith, a member of the committee, worked with House leadership to determine locations for public hearings outside of Salem. The hearings will allow local officials and the public to testify on various transportation projects and policies they believe should be included in the anticipated transportation package. The committee will also tour local transportation hubs and projects, and visit with regional ODOT officials and members of various Area Commissions on Transportation. After their hearing in Hermiston, the committee

will visit the Port of Morrow to gain a first-hand understanding of transportation needs in the area and how targeted investments might strengthen economic growth for the region and state. “I want to thank House leadership for allowing the committee to travel to Eastern Oregon and hear from our local communities, counties, and ports,” said Smith. “Our region relies on the transportation system to connect communities and export our commodities. I believe having the committee travel outside of Salem is the right decision. This will help develop a more robust and comprehensive package that will benefit all of Oregon.”

Page 12 North Morrow Times

June 3, 2016

Congratulations to Riverside High School Class of 2016 Baccalaureate: Wednesday, June 1st at 6 pm, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Graduation: Saturday, June 4th at 10 am., RHS Dante Daltoso Gymnasium

Boardman Foods Inc. Weâ€™re Proud of You! Sponsored by:

Frederickson Farming, LLC

Page 13 North Morrow Times

June 3, 2016

Good Luck Irrigon High School Graduates 2016 Baccalaureate: Thursday, June 2 at 7 pm, Family Worship Center, Irrigon Graduation: Saturday, June 4th at Noon, Irrigon High School Gymnasium