North Morrow
Volume XXXI
Number 5
November 3, 2023
TIMES
FREE MONTHLY PUBLICATION
Special Olympics Swim Team shines
OSP Trooper , Special Olympian Rian Middleton, Coach Jessica Finn, assistant coach Javier Garcia , Special Olympian Noah St. Hilliard. Front row: Special OlympiansMorgan Burleson, Misty Larsen, Jose Angel-Garcia, Daniel Tucker, assistant coach Cindy Middleton. Photos Contributed.
Coach Angela Schneider has been the Local Program Coordinator for 5 ½ years and medical manager for 8 years for the Special Olympics Group. She covers the service area Arlington to Milton Freewater. The swim competition was in Baker City on 10/29, where the team competed against 37 athletes from two other counties. Morgan is the youngest competitor at 11 years old. She won the 25 meter backstroke and 25 meter freestroke- 1 st placeGOLD in both events Jose Garcia won the 25 meter butterfly -1st GOLD (beat his best time by 3.5 seconds)and the 50 meter freestyle- 2nd SILVER Misty won the 25 meter backstroke and 25 meter freestyle – 2nd SILVER in both.
Ryan won the 25 meter freestyle and 50 meter freestyle- 1 st GOLD in both. Noah won the 15 kickboard and 15 meter unassisted swim 1st GOLD in both. Daniel won the 25 meter backstroke and 25 meter freestyle -2nd SILVER in both. The number of athletes depends on the sport. Coach Schneider would like to share that they will be registering for Basketball and Powerlifting in January. You may Email for information regarding registration: hp510specialolympics@gmail.com
Photo above: Morgan receiving her gold medal for the 25m backstroke, Presented by Oregon State Police trooper.
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November 3, 2023
Sam Boardman to hold Family Feast, and it’s BREAKFAST, November 21 We invite you to our SBE Family Feast on Tuesday, November 21st! Please note-We will be serving a Thanksgiving BREAKFAST; sausage, pancakes, and a special holiday treat. Any adult family members are welcome to attend lunch with their child. Please, no younger siblings. If you want to eat a school-provided lunch we require a $4.90 payment in order to purchase enough food for all. You may join in the lunch without payment if you just want to sit with your child during the feast. If you plan to eat a lunch, please send your payment of $4.90 to school no later than Tuesday, November 7th.
North Morrow Times Co-Editors: Lynn Prag (541) 571- 3071 Jane Pope (541) 377-6801
Email: NorthMTimes@gmail.com or mail to P. O. Box 907, Boardman, OR 97818 Check us out on the Web: http://issuu.com/northmorrowtimes Or on FaceBook: https://www.facebook.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 Friday of each month.
Page 3 North Morrow Times About Veterans Day Veterans Day is observed every year on Nov. 11. Veterans Day evolved from Armistice Day, which was proclaimed in 1919 by President Woodrow Wilson. Armistice Day recognizes the end of World War I, when fighting ceased at the 11th hour, on the 11th day, of the 11th month in 1918. (Nov. 11th at 11 A.M, 1918). On Nov. 11, 1947 Raymond Weeks, a World War II veteran, organized a “National Veterans Day” parade in Birmingham, Alabama, to recognize veterans of all wars, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs. According to the Emporia Convention and Visitors Bureau official site, “In 1953 Veterans Day was organized and celebrated in Emporia, Kansas;
one year prior to the first nationwide observance on Nov. 11, 1954.” These celebrations may have influenced Congress to change Armistice Day to Veterans Day in 1954 to recognize veterans of all U.S. wars. President Dwight D. Eisenhower made Nov. 11 the official national observance of Veterans Day after Kansas Congressman Ed Rees (who was from Emporia) proposed the bill in Congress to change Armistice Day to Veterans Day. According to History.com, Veterans Day wasn’t always held on Nov. 11. In 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Holidays Bill, moving Veterans Day to the fourth Monday in October beginning in 1971. But, in 1975 President Gerald Ford returned the observance to Nov. 11.
Morrow County Veterans Services would like to thank all Veterans for their service to our country. It is a great honor to offer our help in return. Please visit us at 215 NE Main Avenue in Irrigon Monday-Thursday 8 am-12 pm and 1-5 pm Or contact us at 541-922-6420 or scase@co.morrow.or.us
Last Chance Pesticide Credit - FREE Where: 2411 NW Carden Ave, Umatilla Hall, Pendleton, OR When: December 8, 2023 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Cost: Free Join Washington State University, University of Idaho, and Oregon State University Extension Services for a "Last Chance Pesticide Credit" event. This event will feature speakers on a variety of dryland grain, rangeland, and weed management topics; presentation details are in the agenda linked below. We anticipate five (5) continuing education credits for WSDA, ISDA, and ODA pesticide license holders. Registration is required! Please register by clicking the button above. We will offer in-person locations in Pendleton, Heppner*, Walla Walla, Clarkston, and Colfax. You can also attend the event virtually via Zoom. Please contact cody.copp@oregonstate.edu with any questions. *To attend in-person in Heppner, please contact Larry Lutcher at larry.lutcher@oregonstate.edu.
November 3, 2023
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Morrow County Planning reviews new and updated Heritage Trail Interpretive Panels
Morrow County Planning Department is pleased to announce a new project – an update of the Interpretive Panels located along the Heritage Trail. The existing panels have been in place for over 20 years and have been damaged and weathered. In July, Morrow County contracted with Sea Reach Limited to update the graphics and content of the panels as well as design new panels. Sea Reach Ltd has been in business producing interpretive exhibits in wayfinding for projects across the United States for over 40 years. Anyone interested in the interpretive panels is invited to meet with planners and Sea Reach Ltd. on November 13th to view the panels and provide input on the panels. The meeting will be 10:00AM12:00PM in Irrigon at the North Morrow County Government Center, 215 NE Main Street. If you would like to view the existing panels, they are available on the Morrow County website at https:// www.co.morrow.or.us/planning/page/ heritage-trail-panels
November 3, 2023
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Librarian awarded grant to attend conference in Tampa Bay, Florida HERMISTON – Mrs. Delia Fields, Hermiston School District secondary school librarian, is the inaugural recipient of the Gregory Lum American Association of School Librarians (AASL) National Conference Grant. The $2,000 grant will cover her travel expenses, conference registration, and hotel costs. Fields will then later serve on a committee to select the next recipient. “I’ll bring back all sorts of great learning, connections, and resources to use with students and staff,” said Fields. “My position as the Region 6 representative on the Oregon Association of School Libraries board provided me with a bit of a foundation and an idea of how to make the most of a conference. I’ve been preparing.” The grant was founded by former OASL President Gregory Lum, a retired teacher-librarian. The winner of the grant, a first-time conference attendee, is selected based on a number of criteria such as, a librarians’ impact on library and community, library philosophy, desire to grow professionally, and supervisor support. Fields will travel to Tampa Bay, FL., October 19-21 and attend the 2023 AASL National
Librarian Delia Fields will attend the National Conference in Tampa Bay, Florida October 19-21. Conference. “Delia is a vital member of our school staff and of our school district community,” said Director of secondary education, Scott Depew. “She directly serves three schools as the teacher-librarian and finds varied ways to share her librarybased knowledge, resources, and support with staff and students. This is a wonderful opportunity for her and for our district.”
November = Giving Thanks We would like to thank everyone that has given us the opportunity to help them with their insurance needs If you would like a quote, give us a call Home, Auto, Recreational, Farm & Commercial Contact our Hermiston office at * 541-567-8834 Or visit us at 455 E Main St, Hermiston www.wheatlandins.com
November 3, 2023
Morrow County Livestock Growers annual meeting to be held The Morrow County Livestock Growers invite you to attend the Annual Meeting scheduled for Thursday, November 9th, 2023. This year’s event promises to be an informative and engaging experience for livestock growers and farmers in the region. Event Details: Date: Thursday, November 9th, 2023 Time: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Location: Port of Morrow Wells Conference Room, No-Host Dinner to follow at 2 Barrels Grill The Morrow County Livestock Growers Annual Meeting will serve as a platform for knowledge sharing and networking among the agricultural community. Attendees can look forward to an exciting lineup of speakers from prominent organizations in the industry. Keynote speakers at the event include representatives
from the following organizations: * Farm Service Agency: Get the latest insights on government support programs and resources available for livestock growers. * Oregon Cattlemen’s Association: Gain valuable information on industry trends, advocacy, and how the Association is working to support cattle ranchers in Oregon. * Morrow County Soil and Water Conservation District: Learn about sustainable agricultural practices, conservation efforts, and initiatives aimed at promoting responsible land stewardship. * All West Select Sires: Discover advancements in cattle genetics, breeding, and how these technologies can benefit your livestock operations. After the event, there will be a no-host dinner at the renowned 2 Barrels Grill, offering
attendees a chance to relax and continue networking in a more casual setting. “The Annual Meeting is a vital gathering for the Morrow County Livestock Growers, where we come together to learn, share experiences, and explore opportunities,” said Kyle Robinson, President of the Morrow County Livestock Growers. “We encourage all livestock growers, farmers, and ranchers to join us for this informative and engaging event. And encourage our Umatilla and Gilliam County neighbors to attend too” Mark your calendars for the Morrow County Livestock Growers Annual Meeting on Thursday, November 9th, 2023. This is a unique chance to connect with industry leaders, expand your knowledge, and be part of the thriving agricultural community in Morrow County.
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Did you know Did you know that there are 23 ports in Oregon and that the Port of Morrow is Oregon’s second largest port behind the Port of Portland? Fourteen ports are located on the coast and nine on the Columbia River. Oregon Ports provide more than economic services, they also provide commercial and recreational opportunities to residents and visitors. They serve as interstate and international transportation gateways. One out of every six Oregon jobs is directly or indirectly related to activities at Oregon’s Ports.
November 3, 2023
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November 3, 2023
Have you heard of “Eastern Promise”? Eastern Promise is a program that encourages students to earn college/post-secondary credits while attending high school in eastern Oregon. Eastern Promise is a collaboration between the InterMountain Education Service District (IMESD), Blue Mountain Community College, Eastern Oregon University, Treasure Valley Community College and 45 school districts in the region. The program creates opportunities for high school students to participate in collegelevel courses and Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes and earn college credits and/or certificates while still in high school. There are two goals of Eastern Promise: GOAL #1 Build a college/post-secondary
going culture. GOAL #2 Increase access to affordable early college credit for eastern Oregon high school students toward certificate/degree completion. Eastern Promise College Credit Subject Areas: Speech, Health, Biology, Chemistry, Writing, Math, History, Spanish, Computer Science, Success 101, various Career Technical Education Courses (CTE) EARLY COLLEGE CREDIT You have many opportunities for enrichment and early college credit available to you. Does your school district pay for college credit tuition? Here is For more help or advice, ask your high school academic counselor.
Welcome to Lexington Pump LLC Sales Service Installation Trenching Available & Solar Pumping Systems www.lexingtonpump.com 541-989-8448 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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November 3, 2023
New improved lighting dedicated for Riverside field RHS would like to thank our light sponsors! Pictured are (L-R) Principal John Christy, Rick Stokoe representing Morrow County Unified Recreation District and Jackie Caldera, representing Umatilla Electric. Also sponsoring the new lighting was BCDA. The combined donations were over $380,000 to purchase the lights! Thank You! The improved lighting made Homecoming extra special!
Riverside Jr/Sr November Athletics November 4, 9:00am, Basketball: B/Junior High @Stanfield Secondary Nov. 8, 4:00pm, Basketball: B/Junior High @Windy River Elementary School Nov. 11, 9:00am, Basketball: B/Junior High @Weston McEwen High School Nov. 14, 4:00pm, Basketball: B/Junior High, @Heppner Nov. 18, 9:00am, Basketball: B/Junior High @Riverside Jr/Sr High School Nov. 28, 4:30pm, Basketball: B/Junior High @Windy River Elementary School Nov. 30, 3:00pm, Basketball: G/JV, @Irrigon 4:30pm, Basketball: B/JV, @Irrigon
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November 3, 2023
Park Haunt thrills Halloween kids
This year the Boardman Park & Recreation District Haunt was a great success with roughly 230 visitors who enjoyed the haunt on the evenings of 10/27 & 10/28 from 7pm-9:30pm. Changes and additions to the haunt this year included a haunted cemetery with ghostly actors roaming the cemetery and the zombie room was transformed into a creepy clown room. Without the help of over 30 volunteers acting and helping with the setup and tear down they would not have been able to make this event happen this year. They are grateful for the continued support of their volunteers and community and hope to bring this event back next year, bigger and better than ever. BPRD would also like to thank the following sponsors for providing fencing, porta potties, and hay tarps; Farm City, MJ’s Labor, and Inland Tarp.
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November 3, 2023
Irrigon Elementary hosts first Career Fair Story and Photos by: Xenia Velasco Melanie, from Kevin about hosting a career fair with Hamblin’s fifth grade class was kids of this age group, she be(Irrigon) — On lieves it to be October 19th, an advantage. Irrigon ElShe said stuementary dents can get a School (IES) better idea of invited profesthings they sionals from may like to do various indusin the future. tries to their She stated that school, offering being a school students an opcounselor is portunity to about fostering explore differstudents’ social ent careers in and emotional an engaging learning, but way. Fourth, their career defifth and sixth velopment as graders were well. able to naviRiley gate around stated that the school and some of the get more inforprimary goals mation about of this event the various job were to show industries that the students were prethat their sented. school is helpBooths were ing to prepare set up in the g y m n a s i u m Students show off their prizes from the BMCC Collegiate Athlete station them for their futures and to and the east show the wide parking lot of the school. In the music room musician Zac excited to share that she spoke range of careers they can venGrooms wowed the kids with with a counselor, her top career ture into. his rendition of John Denver’s choice at the moment. When “Country Roads, Take Me asked what Home.” Across the hall, Chris makes her inBarley educated students on ca- terested in reers in food safety. Students c o u n s e l i n g , were able to meet with the Mor- she responded my row County Health District, the “When Irrigon Rural Fire Department, friends are Boardman Public Works, Com- having probmunity Counseling Solutions, lems, I would the Department of Corrections, help them. Peach & Plum Studio, American Other people Pacific Mortgage, the National who saw that would tell me Guard, and more! All week long, the kids pre- I would be a pared for the Career Fair by good counselearning some interview skills, lor. And I accreating questions to ask the tually like to professionals at the booths, and help!” K e l s i e thinking about the kind of career they may be interested in. Riley, guidSome students even came ance counsedressed for the occasion! lor at Irrigon Jeremiah, a fourth grader from E l e m e n t a r y Dawn Sharp’s class, said that he and organizer would really like to be a lawyer, of the event, but that there are so many other reported that careers he is interested in. He this is the first shared that next time, he hopes year of the to see a professional gamer at IES Career She the fair. Jeremiah’s favorite ac- Fair. tivity was touring the Depart- shared that ment of Corrections bus. His while some Sergeant Joseph Sullivan teaches students how to friend wants to be a ninja when c o u n s e l o r s apply a bandage wrap may not think he grows up.
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November 3, 2023
Go underground with bulbs for colorful spring bloom CORVALLIS, Ore. – When it comes to plants, bulbs are about as easy as it gets and now’s the time to get them in the ground. “You plant spring-flowering bulbs in fall, they grow over winter, flourish in spring and go dormant in summer,” said Heather Stoven, a horticulturist with the Oregon State University Extension Service. “Once they’re in the ground, they do quite well over multiple years with little maintenance.” On top of that, bulbs are drought tolerant. “That’s one of the great things about them,” Stoven said. “Since they go dormant in summer, they don’t need to be watered.” If you plan to intermingle bulbs with perennials or place them near shrubs, pair with plants that don’t need much irrigation, she said. Or, if the area gets regular water, make sure the soil drains well. Bulbs such as daffodils, tulips, crocus and hyacinth are planted in fall because they need some time to get their
roots going before pushing up to put on a spring show. Although October and November are ideal for planting, bulbs can go into the ground until midDecember. When purchasing bulbs, choose large ones. The bigger the bulb, the bigger the bloom, Stoven said. Also, avoid those with mold or soft spots, which signal rot. Plant as soon as possible, but if something comes up to delay you, store bulbs in a cool, dim place such as an unlit garage. Make a plan before heading to the garden center. Decide on color combinations. Do a little research so that you can choose early, mid- and late-blooming varieties for a longer display. Think about what to plant together – a mix of different types of bulbs is an attractive option. A big swath of the same type and color bulbs will make a statement, too. As you get ready to plant, dig holes to fit multiple bulbs rather than planting one at a
time. The effect is more natural. “Groupings are really nice,” Stoven said. “You’ll get a mass of color.” When digging the hole, it’s best to follow directions on the package for planting depth, but a general rule of thumb is three
times as deep as the bulb is wide. Add some organic material – compost, well-rotted manure or mulch – to the bottom of the hole, place bulb pointed side up and cover with soil. Adding fertilizer is not necessary,
BEO Bancorp reports third quarter earnings Bank of Eastern Oregon, announced third quarter 2023 consolidated net income of $3.6 million or $2.99 per share, compared to $2.4 million or $2.02 per share in the same period in 2022. Total assets were $840.2 million, down 3.5 percent year over year; Net loans of $514.2 million show an increase of 5.5 percent from last year; Deposits were at $762.7 million, compared to $803.2 million for the same period in 2022. Shareholders’ equity is $57.3 million, an increase of 19.8 percent year over year. “Third quarter is typically a strong earnings time for our Bank. We are an agriculturally based institution and peak borrowing usually matches up with harvest time. This year we also got a small bump from the loans we purchased from Farmington State Bank,” said President and CEO Jeff Bailey. Chief Financial Officer Mark Lemmon said, “While we have seen a manageable decrease in deposits compared to last year, we maintain strong liquidity. Our investment portfolio is per-
forming quite well and we are positioned to weather the continued uncertainty of the Fed’s action on interest rates as they fight inflation. The Bank’s EPS is holding strong, with Return on Average Assets at 1.74 percent and Return on Average Equity of 25.59 percent annualized for the quarter.” “Harvest results are disappointing compared to a great 2022, but input prices have moderated somewhat, and crop insurance will be a factor for many producers. Cattle prices are quite strong. Overall, we expect a typical renewal season for our ag producers,” said Chief Lending Officer John Qualls. Chief Credit Officer Ed Rollins added, “While the Fed has taken a pause on rate increases for the time being, we will be monitoring the impact of rate resets on borrowers as we move forward. Loan repayments are as expected and we are seeing continued strength in our loan portfolio performance.” Chief Operations Officer Becky Kindle said, “The absorp-
tion of the Farmington State Bank deposits and loans into our system went quite well. We look forward to our next project, which is converting the Caldwell, Idaho loan production office into a full-service branch during fourth quarter.” About BEO Bancorp BEO Bancorp is the holding company for Bank of Eastern Oregon. It operates 20 branches and four loan production offices in 11 eastern Oregon and four eastern Washington counties, and one western Idaho county. Branches are located in Arlington, Ione, Heppner, Condon, Irrigon, Boardman, Burns, John Day, Prairie City, Fossil, Moro, Enterprise, Athena, Hermiston, and La Grande, OR; and Colfax, Dayton, LaCrosse, Pasco, and Pomeroy WA; loan production offices are located in Ontario, Pendleton, and Madras, OR, and Caldwell, ID. Bank of Eastern Oregon also operates a mortgage division and operates the Washington locations under the name of Bank of Eastern Washington. The bank’s website is https://www.beobank.com .
but if you feel compelled, use super phosphate or a low-concentrated product labeled for bulbs, Stoven said. There’s no need to dig bulbs up after flowering, but letting the foliage turn brown and die back is a good idea so that the nutrients contained in the leaves return to the bulb and it can start the cycle once again. Here are Stoven’s recommendations for uncommon spring-blooming bulbs: Fawn lily (Erythronium oregonum) – An Oregon native wildflower with dainty, nodding white or yellowish flowers and brown-stained leaves. Doesn’t mind shade and looks inviting in a woodland setting. Grecian windflower (Anemone blanda) – Delicate, star-like flowers come in blue, white and pink on frilly foliage that melts away soon after bloom is over. Best used in a mass. “Blue is especially nice to
have as a contrast to yellow daffodils,” Stoven said. Allium – Part of the garlic family, this deer-resistant bulb puts up a stem with one ballshaped flower, usually in shades of purple, pink and blue, more infrequently white. Sizes vary widely from the 10-inch flowers of ‘Globemaster’ to the tiny pops of 1-inch drumstick alliums. Fritillaria – Another group of bulbs with wide variation. On crown imperial fritillaria (F. imperialis), bell-shaped flowers in orange or yellow hang in clusters from single stems up to 5 feet tall. The much-smaller native checker lily (F. affinis) has dark purple flowers spotted irregularly with yellow. Species tulips – Just like their big siblings, but shorter, hardier and longer lasting. They come in many colors and often the flowers open wider than regular tulips. These bulbs will seed themselves, so they’ll naturalize and give years of enjoyment.
Boardman Senior Center November Menu Tuesday Nov. 7 White Chicken Chili Green Beans Corn Bread Green Salad Jello Dessert Tuesday Nov. 14 Chili Baked Potatoes Green Salad Cornbread Cookies Tuesday Nov. 21 Ham & Navy Bean Soup with carrots Green Salad Rolls Carrot Cake Tuesday Nov. 28 Pot Roast w/ Potatoes & Veggies Green Salad Rolls Fruit Cobbler Lunch is $5 for Seniors 55 & Above; $6 for Adults 54 & Under All are Welcome! Take-Out Lunches and Catering Available. Call 481-3257
Thursday Nov. 2 Ham Tetrazzini w/ Peas & Mushrooms Garlic Bread Green Salad Cupcakes Thursday Nov. 9 Polish Sausage w/ Pasta Broccoli Garlic Bread Green Salad Brownies Thursday Nov. 16 Birthday Meal Ground Beef Cordon Bleu Mashed Potatoes Cauliflower Green Salad Cake & Ice Cream Thursday Nov. 23 Thanksgiving No Lunch Thursday Nov. 30 Grilled Cheese Sandwiches Tomato Soup Tricolor pasta salad w/ salami Pudding
Boardman Senior Center 100 Tatone Street * Boardman
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Vote YES for Affordable Healthcare Services! At one time or another we, or someone we love, has needed healthcare services. Some of those times were routine, and thankfully non-emergent, like a visit to our hometown Doctor, Nurse Practitioner or Physician’s Assistant, or a blood draw for lab work first thing in the morning before we can eat, or X-rays, CT scan or ultrasound, or home health care support in some of our lifechanging situations. Sometimes it’s emergent, life threatening, and we are glad to know someone is on the way to help as soon as possible! Sometimes it’s a heart-wrenching need for supportive hospice care for a dying loved one. In times like these we in Morrow County are blessed with local care options from people we personally know. Local care is just that, care in our own communities, when we need it, by people who work as a team to care for us. For decades the Morrow County Health District has provided that care, and still does, every day and night, for those of us in need. At one level or another, that care is provided to every resident of Morrow County through the support of 2 tax levies, one a permanent, fixed rate, and one a supplemental levy of $0.39 per thousand voted on every 5 years. The $1.00 per thousand Combined rate is the lowest of any healthcare district in Eastern Oregon. I am asking for your YES vote on the supplemental levy on November 7th to continue these services and, in fact, build on them in the future. In my opinion, it is sad that a very vocal minority wishes to take those services away from each of us in our own communities. Their current target is our healthcare system described above. If you remember their past target was our local school system and bond, even though we had planned then, and have seen come to pass, over $2 BILLION of investment in the county in the last year. I urge you to DISAGREE with their constantly negative rhetoric and actions and their social media personal attacks by VOTING YES on
supporting the services provided by the Morrow County Health District. It is time for all of us to speak up with our vote for the POSITIVES in our county. I ask you to VOTE YES! John Murray, RPh Why am I voting NO on MCHD levy 25-97 My instinct had always been to vote yes on public service levies. What changed my mind? I was blissfully unaware of most county public or political happenings. I was under the false assumption that everyone holding these positions would be honest, make decisions in the MAJORITY’s best interests, follow every law & regulation AND uphold their fiduciary duty to US, the taxpayers they work for. I was WRONG. I initially became curious when MCHD started “love bombing us” with their tales of the big bad evil new fire chief and his dastardly deeds. Down the rabbit hole I went. I wanted to rally behind MCHD and stop the horror’s MCHD was accusing BFRD and Chief Hughes of committing. I began reading every document I could; minutes, emails, letters, OHA documents, ORS’s, the 1998 Ordinance that MCHD continuously referenced. I started attending every meeting I could. I discovered MCHD is either incompetent or deceptively manipulative, or both. MCHD has continuously wasted OUR money pushing their misleading propaganda to sway public opinion, instill fear, create hate & discontent, cause division between friends, neighbors, and communities. I believe we ALL want the same thing. Transparency, accountability, elimination of unnecessary wasteful spending, for those elected to be HONEST, follow rules, laws, and regulations, to NOT FALSELY accuse other EMS agencies of wrong doings, AND to not user our money to sue our money, ESPECIALLY while asking us for more of our hard-earned money. Due to Measures 5 and 50, compression tax, and the City of Heppner raising their city tax to more than double any other city in Morrow County, MANY Heppner taxpayers will pay
little to nothing towards this MCHD levy. MCHD 23-24 proposed budget is $26,357,830.00, over 61% will go to Heppner. Roughly 11% will go to each Irrigon and Boardman, with even less going to Lexington and Ione. According to the ballot, this levy will cost taxpayers $1,415,810.00 yearly. MCHD Proposed 23-24 Budget states “forecasted property tax revenue of $3,578,486 is a 16% increase over the prior year due to increased property values in residential, commercial, and industrial development.” [MCHD June 13,2023] Even without this levy, YOU will still pay MCHD $2,162,676.00 per year in taxes. Is MCHD so inept that they cannot continue to operate with a $24,942,020.00 yearly budget? Are you tired of wasteful spending and lack of transparency? Make your voice heard at the ballot box. My vote is NO on MCHD levy 25-97 Theresa Rehak, Morrow County Resident
Thanksgiving Meal Thanksgiving Day (11/23) @ Irrigon Senior Center. Two options. Drive-thru 12 PM to 1:30 PM In Person; Doors open at 10 AM for games/puzzles Dinner is served at 2 PM to 3:30 PM Clean up to follow You can get tickets from Irrigon Food Pantry, Irrigon Chamber Office
November 3, 2023
Free library card at Oregon Trail Library District, Boardman, Heppner, & Irrigon
Leaves are falling and ebooks are calling! Borrow your next favorite read from our library with the Libby app! Visit our website at otld.org to get started with Libby, free with your OTLD library card!
Oregon Trail Library Boardman New Book List: Adult Fiction: Death Comes to Lajitas - James J. Griffin Longhorns East - Johnny D. Boggs Murder at an Irish Bakery - Carlene O’Connor Shell Beach - T. Davis Bunn The Breakaway - Jennifer Weiner The Hidden One - Linda Castillo Non-Fiction: A Woman’s Guide to Claiming Space: Stand Tall, Raise Your Voice, Be Heard - Eliza VanCort Juvenile Playaways: Ada Lovelace Cracks the Code - Corinne Purtill Big Cats: What Do Lions, Tigers, and Panthers Get Up to All Day? Tyus D. Williams Madam C.J. Walker Builds a Business - Denene Millner Making New Friends - Kim Dean Old School - Jeff Kinney Stacey’s Extraordinary Words - Stacey Abrams Stacey’s Remarkable Books - Stacey Abrams Surely Surely Marisol Rainey - Erin Entrada Kelly The Berenstain Bears Blast Off! - Mike Berenstain The Last Beekeeper - Pablo Cartaya Twelve Dinging Doorbells - Tameka Fryer Brown Wind and Water - Kimberly Derting There are still spots available for Crafty Nights @ the Library on November 8th @ 6pm, all three branches. Register on our website or call to reserve your space. This month’s craft is Holiday Cards. Pre-school Storytimes are on Tuesdays @ 11 am in Boardman and Heppner, and Fridays @ 11 am in Irrigon.
Library Hours Sunday Closed Monday Closed Tuesday 10-6 Wednesday 10-6 Thursday10-6 Friday 10-6 Saturday Closed
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November 3, 2023
Community Focus
T
he City of Boardman has two vacancies on the Planning Commission. The city is seeking interested parties who live within the Boardman City Limits or, for one of the positions, in the 97818 Zip Code, with one term ending December 31, 2024 and the other ending December 31, 2025. The position will be appointed at the November 7, 2023 city council meeting with the first planning commission meeting scheduled for November 15, 2023. The Planning Commission is comprised of seven members appointed by the city council and is a permanent advisory body to the council on matters related to planning and development. The commission holds monthly public meetings to consider land use and zoning matters presented by staff, such as plan amendments, zone changes, conditional use permits,variances, and tentative subdivision projects. Meetings are generally the third Wednesday of each month at 7pm at Boardman City Hall and are open to the public. More information about the planning commission can be found at: http:// www.cityofboardman.com/ p c / p a g e / planningcommission. Interested parties should send a letter of interest before November 1, 2023, to Planning Official Carla McLane at mclanec@cityofboardman.com or via mail to: Boardman City Hall, P.O. Box 229, Boardman, Oregon 97818.
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otice of public hearing is hereby given: The Boardman City Council will conduct a Public Hearing, Tuesday, November 7, 2023at 7:00pm City hall council chambers . This hearing is to receive public comment concerning declaring surplus real property located on Parcel 1 of PARTITION PLAT 2014-5, in the County of Morrow and State of Oregon. This property is approximately 307 acres located on Tower Road. The registered voters and public of the City of Boardman are invited to appear at the hearing and be heard on the above-mentioned question. otice of Boardman City Council Workshop Session The Boardman City Council will assemble at Boardman City Hall – Council Chambers, Wednesday, November 1, 2023 at 6:00 p.m., In accordance with ORS 192.640 The Boardman Mayor, City Councilors, and City Staff will assemble for a Planning Session. There are no planned deliberations and no decisions will be made regarding any specific subject. General discussions regarding the City Goals & Council Rules will occur. This is a workshop session and there may not be opportunity for public comment.
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Boardman Senior Breakfast Saturday, November 4th 7:30 - 10:30 am Hash Browns, Eggs, Pancakes, Ham, Sausage, Pancakes Biscuits & Gravy, Coffee/Juice/Milk Boardman Senior Center 100 Tatone Street * Boardman
HERE’S MY CARD
HERE’S MY CARD
Boardman Community Church Pastor Andy Hermanns Boardman Community Church is a non-denominational Bible believing church. We are excited to see God move in our community. Join us as we worship God. Sunday 300 2nd Street NW worship Boardman, OR 97818 11:00 am Phone 541-656-6918 Bible Study Wednesday 6:30 pm Hispanic Church Spanish - Sat. & Sun. evenings 6 pm Youth Group meets Sunday 5 to 6:30 pm
FTTG (FREDI THE TREE GUY) 541-656-7288 FREDI AND JILL - Owners Licensed - Bonded - Insured
CCB#236030
FTTGCONTRACTING@GMAIL.COM Free yard analysis-For all your tree needs Trimming and Removal Find us on Facebook-FTTG-Fredi The Tree Guy Irrigon, Oregon
KRP Management Enjoy Free Thanksgiving Dinner on Thursday, 11-25, 2-4pm, RiverFront Center 541-481-2571
Boardman, OR
Providing Mental Health, Alcohol & Drug, Gambling, Developmental 541.481.2911 Disabilities, and Boardman Office 541.676.9161 24-Hr. Crisis Services Heppner Office
TnT Storage Greenfield Grange Breakfast Saturday, November 18th * 7 to 10 am Adults - $7.00 * Under 10 - $3.00 Veterans eat FREE Call Mike for carry out * 541-490-6628 209 NW 1st Street Boardman, OR
Greenfield Grange Potluck/Meeting 2nd Tuesday of the month at 6 pm
335 Yates Lane / P.O. Box 669 Boardman, OR 97818 Office 541-481-2700 * Cell 541-371-4909 tnt-storage.com * tntstorage2@gmail.com 5X10, 10X10, & 10X20 Units, and RV/Vehicle
Send your Community Focus to NorthMTimes@gmail.com Classified Ad rates are: 5 lines for $7.50 plus $0.20/word thereafter
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HERE’S MY CARD
CLASSIFIEDS
CLASSIFIEDS
BURNS MORTUARY
MISCELLANEOUS
FOR SALE
THE NEXT EDITION OF THE NORTH MORROW TIMES will be in your mailbox: December 1, 2023. Deadline is Friday, November 24, 2023 Mail your entries to: North Morrow Times PO Box 907 Boardman, OR 97818 E-mail: NorthMTimes@gmail.com
The City of Boardman has a 2010 Dodge Charger to sell as surplus. Sealed bids are due November 17th at 5pm at the City hall in Boardman. The Charger has 66,743 miles. Call the City hall for questions 541481-9252 and ask for T oni to Toni submit a bid bid.
OF HERMISTON Ken Huber
email: burnsmortuary@eotnet.net website: www.burnsmortuaryhermiston.com (541) 567-6474) 685 W. Hermiston Ave. * PO Box 289 Hermiston, Oregon 97838
North Morrow Times November 3, 2023
Your Business Card
HERE $40
MORROW COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS TRANSFER STATIONS Head over to Columbia River Pharmacy Hours Pharmacy today! Mon-Fri 9:00 am-7:00 pm * Experienced pharmacists Sat 10:00 am-3:00 pm * Bilingual staff * Medication delivery Located inside Harvest * Coordinated care w/CRH Town Foods
Call 541-481-5444 with questions
Boardman Food Pantry We are open for anyone in need of food each:
Monday 9:30-11:00 am Thursday 6:00-7:00 pm 314 Locust Rd., Boardman,OR
Our transfer stations offer FREE of charge disposal for recycling of newspaper, cardboard, small steel cans, small glass and aluminum, latex and/or oil based paint (no more than 5gallon containers), electronics includ-ing computer towers, computer screens, key boards, printers, handheld radios, fax machines, tablets, tele-phones, cell phones, stereo and copiers. In addition, the disposal of large household items is FREE of charge. Examples of these are sofa/couch, love seat, chair/large chair, mattresses, box springs, toilets, sinks kitchen/ bath, bathtubs, refrigerator, freez-er, water heaters, stove/range, washers and dryers. SOUTH-END STATION: HWY 74 HEPPNER/ LEXINGTON HWY, LEXINGTON NORTH-END STATION: 69900 FRONTAGE LANE, BOARDMAN Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM or until containers are full
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North Morrow Times
November 3, 2023
MORROW COUNTY HEALTH DISTRICT LEVY 25-97 BALLOTS DUE, NOVEMBER 7TH 2023 PAID FOR BY: VOTE NO, MORROW COUNTY HEALTH DISTRICT LEVY 25-97
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THE HEALTH DISTRICT USED OUR TAX DOLLARS TO FILE A LAWSUIT AGAINST MORROW COUNTY AND BOARDMAN FIRE RESCUE DISTRICT; USING OUR TAX DOLLARS TO SUE OUR TAX DOLLARS
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IT IS TIME WE HOLD THE HEALTH DISTRICT ACCOUNTABLE FOR HOW AND WHERE THEY SPEND OUR TAX DOLLARS
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THE HEALTH DISTRICT APPLIED FOR A LOAN FOR THEIR “SHORTFALL” OF YOUR TAX DOLLARS, WHILE THEY SPEND THOUSANDS IN MAILERS, FLYERS, AND LAWYERS
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LACK OF TRANSPARENCY
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THE HEALTH DISTRICT REPEATEDLY USES FEAR TACTICS TO SWAY THE TAXPAYERS
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HIGH EMPLOYEE TURNOVER
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MORROW COUNTY TAXPAYERS, IT IS TIME WE DEMAND A FORENSIC AUDIT OF THE MORROW COUNTY HEALTH DISTRICT