North Morrow Times October, 2025 by North Morrow Times

Volume XXXIII Number 5

Taylor’s Pumpkin Patch has amusements for all ages

Starting October 5th, Taylor’s Pumpkin Patch will officially be open for their fifth season of Halloween fun.

Five years ago Joe Taylor had an idea to utilize a small part of his farm, so he planted a

tether ball, a zip line and you can even pet the cows.

The Taylors also offer events such as Wine Night on the 18th, Bros, Brats, and Brews on the 25th and both events include firepits, corn hole, and more.

pumpkin patch and when his daughter Emily came home from college she took over the operation. The two of them have been oworking the pumpkin patch together ever since with help from Joe’s wife, Cheryl and other daughter Miranda. Emily said “it was just a small patch at first. We had the local FFA kids loading all the boxes, we kept half and they kept the other half which they used as a fundraiser. It was a win, win.”

Emily asked around to see what people wanted and they told her. She said, “It’s been great for our little community, we are small, local, fun and it makes people happy.”

Each year the Pumpkin Patch has grown to include all sorts of family fun. This year some of the attractions include A 1/4 circle haunted corn maze, hay rides, pumpkin cannon, corn pits, large and small hay pyramids, apple sling shot,

nights 6 to 9 pm.

Entrance fee is $5 per person, under three years old are free. You can make reservations for a fire pit complete with benches and firewood for three hours for $50. The Haunted Maze, the Zip Line, are $5 per person and the Bag of apples to sling shot are $5 per bag.

There are many photo opportunities too: you can use the pumpkin wall, the old trucks, the cut out boards or out in the pumpkin patch for your special photo shoot.

“We have over 100 varieties of pumpkins, every size and color imaginable, except purple.” said Emily.

This year Jump Start Java will be back with their trailer on Saturdays, along with the Cookie Lady of Boardman.

Field trips are available for the local schools, where students pay $5 each and take home a small pumpkin, and are allowed to play on the pyra-

Everyone is welcome to come out and enjoy a fun night. They will also have the Haunted House again this year, on the 24th and 25th.

The hours are WednesdayThursday 3:30 to 9 pm. Friday - Sunday 10 am to 6 pm. Event

mids, in the corn pits, ride the hay wagon, and just about everything else for the day.

The pumpkin Patch is located at 79115 Root Lane off Wilson Lane near Boardman. Follow Taylor Pumpkin Patch on Facebook

The Taylor family at the pumpkin patch, located at 79115 Root Lane in Boardman. Pictured L-R: Miranda, Cheryl, Joe and Emily Taylor. They are looking forward to this year’s season and invite everyone to come.

A visual from above of this year’s corn maze. It is 1/4 irrigation circle just waiting to explore. Bring the kids and see if you can find your way around and back to civilization!

The Taylor’s Pumpkin Patch offers over 100 varieties of pumpkins this year. Pumpkin prices are 50 cents a pound. Mini pumpkins are $1.00 each.

On the Line: UEC crews sharpen lifesaving skills in simulated rescues

Umatilla Electric Cooperative (UEC) line crews complete simulated pole-top rescue training using realistic scenarios on Tuesday, Sept. 16 at UEC’s training yard in Hermiston. In partnership with Baker Technical Institute (BTI), UEC line crews participated in simulated emergencies involving pole top rescue maneuvers, mayday calls, and the use of life-saving skills such as CPR, first aid, and AED use. In addition to the

UEC team, Umatilla County Fire District 1 (UCFD #1) also had staffing on site to share insight on best practices for lifesaving maneuvers in emergency situations.

The full training cohort was divided into groups, each creating a realistic emergency scenario that could happen in the field. Each group then set up their emergency simulation, and another group at the training had to approach the situa-

tion, assess, problem solve, and eventually make a rescue and communicate back to the dispatch center and emergency services, if needed. After each rescue, the full group debriefed the situation together and evaluated what changes could be made to improve the rescue. Many crew members commented on the value of the training and the realistic feeling of making critical decisions in a short amount of time. Crew members performed well, taking the training very seriously and finding the best ways to help their simulated injured colleague. This training is repeated each year for our line crews and continues to be well received by all in attendance.

“The more realistic these trainings can be, the more prepared our team will be, should an emergency situation come to fruition,” says Chris McMahon, safety and security administrator. “We’re thrilled to continue to develop the training with BTI and UCFD #1, preparing our crews for as many situations as possible.”

BTI has partnered with UEC for many utility training courses as they continue to expand their training staff and focus on utility safety. At UEC, safety is more than a policy - it’s a core value that guides how we serve our members and support our employees. We’re proud to continue to invest in the skills and preparedness of our staff across the organization.

About Umatilla Electric Cooperative Umatilla Electric Cooperative is a not-for-profit, member-owned electric utility serving over approximately 11,000 members in Northeastern Oregon. With a focus on safety, reliability, and affordability, UEC is committed to powering growth, supporting local communities, and investing in a strong energy future.

Umatilla Electric crew practice a pole top rescue with a pretend person. The crew practices safety in all their work.

Boardman Food Pantry thanks community for overwhelming support after devastating July fire

BOARDMAN, Ore.— After the Boardman Food Pantry was destroyed in a fire this past July, the outpouring of support from businesses, organizations, and community members has been nothing short of extraordinary.

The Pantry has received generous contributions from numerous sponsors and donors, ensuring services to families have not been interrupted. Leading gifts include:

* Amazon – $100,000

* Umatilla Electric Cooperative & CoBank – $30,000

* PGE Foundation – $25,000

* Lamb Weston – $10,000

* Roundhouse – $5,000 plus a paddle challenge raising an ad* EOCCO – $5,000

* GOBHI – $5,000

* Beef Northwest – $5,000, plus all the tri-tip for the fundraising dinner

* Windwave – $6,000

“These contributions—and the countless other gifts and acts of kindness—have left us overwhelmed with gratitude,” said Mary Killion, Board Chair of the Food Pantry. “Thanks to this support, and especially to Community Counseling Solu-

tions for allowing us to operate from their Boardman building, we did not miss a single week of providing food for our community and were gifted over $255,000 in total for the event dinner and auction .”

The Boardman Food Pantry continues to serve families in need at an incredible scale. In 2024 alone, the Pantry supported: 592 households each month 23,844 individuals 7,108 food boxes distributed 474 volunteer hours each month (5,688 yearly) 237 vol-

unteers each month

The Boardman Food Pantry Board of Directors extends heartfelt thanks to every sponsor, volunteer, and neighbor who has stepped forward in this time of need; especially Brandon Hammond (event MC), Ken Grieb (event auctioneer), Alita Nelson (event photographer) and Dale Bates (event sound).

“Together, we are stronger than ever,” said Killion. “This tragedy has shown us the true spirit of community.”

Our group is called “Sagebrush Community Theater Project” and we are kicking off with a talent show on January 24th at the SAGE Center. Auditions for the talent show open October 1st online via video submission. We welcome all ages and talent categories from singing to magic to skits and comedy. There is a five minute time limit per act, and we are also on the hunt for a great MC, tech crew, stage hands, etc.

The best place to go for more information and audition form is our Facebook group at https://w w w.facebook.com/groups/ sagebrushtheater Website: https://sagebrushtheaterproject.com/ Or, find one of our flyers around town and scan the QR code. Once we have a better idea of how many participants we have, we will decide on our first play which will be rehearsed and performed in Summer 2026.

Here is our mission statement:

“The Sagebrush Theater Project exists to build community, foster creativity, and make the arts accessible to all. We create inclusive, family-friendly opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to connect, express themselves, and experience the joy of live theater.”

Members of Amazon present the Boardman Food Pantry with $100,000 contribution during a fundraising dinner and auction event for rebuilding efforts after the pantry was lost in a devastating fire this past July.

Umatilla Electric Cooperative crew review safety training procedures. See story on page 2.

Veterans hold flu shot clinic

The flu season is upon us and the Jonathan M. Wainwright Memorial VA Medical Center put together a flu vaccination clinic schedule for all locations. For the Boardman and surrounding area, 2 flu shot clinics have been scheduled at the Morrow County VA Telehealth Clinic in Boardman, OR (2 Marine Drive, Boardman, OR). Eligible Veterans are invited to stop by the clinic on Tuesday, October 14 and Wednesday, November 19 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. No appointment is necessary. Did you know that vaccines can protect you from getting sick with influenza (flu) and other viruses? Vaccinations can help reduce the risk of severe illness. If you are 65 or older or have existing health conditions, the impact of these infections can be severe, including hospitalization and death. Get vaccinated before the peak flu season to protect yourself and your loved ones.

If you are unable to attend one of these clinics, you can obtain your vaccination at your next provider appointment OR all your primary care team to schedule an appointment. If you get a vaccination in the community, please bring the paperwork to the clinic/your team so we can ensure the vaccination(s) are recorded in your health record.

Morrow County

Historical

Society holds Annual meeting

Sunday, October 12th, 2025, at 2 pm the Morrow County Historical Society will hold their annal meeting at the old Lexington School Building. The business Meeting, and slide program will be presented by Don Eppenbach. There will also be a limited tour of the Building. Refreshments will be served served. All are welcome! For more info, contact Kay Proctor, MCHS President.

The Lexington School Building, which housed grades 1 through 12 and was home to the Lexington Jackrabbits, is over 100 years old. When Morrow County Schools united, Lexington Schools were closed, and its students could attend Heppner or Ione, which is now an independent Charter School.

The historic Lexington School building is now owned by locals Sam and Mary Kay Bellamy, the couple has been busy turning the brick building into an event center/Airbnb.

Oregon Trail Library

Adult F iction:

Dead Line - Marc Cameron

Only the Dead Within - Lisa Childs

Gracie Harris is Under Construction: A Novel - Kate Hash

Say You’ll Remember Me - Abby Jimenez

Kill Order - Chris Mullen

The Paradise Petition - Carolyn Brown

Library Hours

SundayClosed

MondayClosed

Tuesday10-6

Wednesday 10-6

Thursday10-6

Friday10-6

Saturday Closed

Mayhem at a Halloween Wedding - Emmeline Duncan

It Happened on the Lake - Lisa Jackson

A Botanist’s Guide to Rituals and Revenge - Kate Khavari Washita - B. N. Rundell

Broken Country: A Novel - Clare Leslie Hall

Friends to Lovers: A Novel - Sally Blakely

Mrs. Endicott’s Splendid Adventure: A Novel - Rhys Bowen

A Daughter’s Guide to Mothers and Murder - Dianne Freeman Rules for Ruin - Mimi Matthews

Adult Non-F iction:

The Idaho Four: An American Tragedy - James Patterson Will Eisner: A Comics Biography - Stephen Weiner

“Censorship Is So 1984. Read for Your Rights.” Banned Books Week will take place October 5 – 11, 2025.

“Censorship is never the path to truth. All of our lives are enriched when our libraries and schools provide the books that allow us to see ourselves, understand others, and discover the world.” —Barbara Stripling, Banned Books Week Coalition chair.

Support your local library and read!

Speaking of Spooky! CreativeBug offers free classes for everything Halloween! Costumes, face paint, DIY spiders and mummies: CreativeBug has last minute and full prep ideas to kick off the Halloween season. Use your library card and type in the search term ‘Halloween’ for over 200 tutorials designed to spark creativity and fun crafting times.

Crafty Nights @ the Library in October is on Wednesday the 8th at 6 pm. Express your Victoria Thatcher style in this free painting craft event. Call your branch or visit our website to reserve your spot now - space is limited.

Storytimes will be held on Tuesdays and Fridays at 10:30 am in Heppner; and Fridays at 11 am in Boardman and Irrigon. Come for the stories, stay for the fun!

Irrigon has 4-5-6 Club on the 2nd and 4th Fridays from 2 to 4 pm.

Heppner will be doing Funday Fridays for 4-7th grade from 3:30 to 4:30 pm.

Teen Nights are in Heppner and Irrigon on Fridays from 5 to 7 pm, and in Boardman on Thursdays from 5 to 7 pm.

12th Annual Morrow County Harvest Festival coming October 4th

FREE COMMUNITY EVENT CELEBRATING LOCAL ARTISANS, PRODUCE, AND FAMILY FUN

BOARDMAN, Ore. (September 5th, 2025) – Save the date! The SAGE Center and Event Center are excited to host the 12th Annual Morrow County Harvest Festival on Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 101 Olson Road, Boardman, Oregon.

This free community event brings together the very best of Morrow County with local vendors, fresh produce , and family-friendly activities, making it a must-attend celebration for visitors of all ages.

Back by popular demand, Threemile Canyon Farms will once again host the 8th Annual “Harvest Bounty for Youth in Agriculture.” For a small donation to local youth programs, attendees can “fill-a-bag” with fresh, locally grown produce— including potatoes, carrots, and organic onions.

The beloved Kid’s Corner will return, offering free handson activities in partnership with organizations like FFA, Columbia River Health, and Umatilla National Forest Service. Families can enjoy muledrawn wagon rides, face painting , pumpkin painting , and more.

Throughout the day, the Harvest Festival stage—generously provided by the Boardman Chamber of Commerce—will feature live entertainment and demonstrations. Local DJ Kora will host the festivities, keeping the energy high and the crowd engaged.

We look forward to seeing you!

For more information about the event, please visit the Morrow County Harvest Festival event page on Facebook, go to www.visitsage.com or call the

SAGE Center at (541) 4817243.

About the SAGE Center & Event Center: The SAGE Center – Sustainable Agriculture and Energy Center – is an interactive learning museum and visitor center in Boardman, Oregon. Operated by the Port of Morrow, the SAGE Center highlights the region’s sustainable agriculture and energy industries through hands-on exhibits , educational programming, and community events Adjacent to the museum, the SAGE Event Center provides a versatile venue for conferences, trainings, and private events, featuring modern facilities and state-of-the-art audiovisual capabilities. Together, the SAGE Center and Event Center serve as a hub for learning, celebration, and community connection in Eastern Oregon.

Boardman Senior Center Spotlight

By Shara Weiss

Greetings, Community!The Senior Center Board and Volunteers have enjoyed seeing the increased activity at the Boardman Senior Center. There has been an increase in lunch attendees, carryout meals, community members attending the lunches at which speakers are featured, and more.

We have two great speakers lined up for the month of October, so mark your calendar! On Thursday, October 2nd, the speaker will be Dominic (Nic) Kotz with

the Oregon Military Department. Mr. Kotz will discuss changes happening at the Umatilla Army Depot.

On Tuesday October 21st, we will welcome Joe Taylor as our featured speaker. Joe will be sharing information about the upcoming pumpkin patch. He will also discuss additional community roles that he is involved with. See you there!

Please note: On Thursday, October 23rd, from 11am-Noon, the Senior Center is offering an emergency preparedness training for adults 60 and older. The training is free and those who attend will receive a 3 day emergency survival kit, an emergency radio, and a free lunch (to follow the training).

Rise Up for Freedom Walk and Cruise In raises

The 3rd annual Walk For Freedom was held on August 2, 2025. $2,757.90 was raised and went to OurRescue.org where they continue to rescue victims of human traffickiing.

Angie Flores is the driving force behind the Boardman walk. She has been instrumental in raising close to $10,000 over the past three years for the cause.

This year she also headed up a Cruise In and had 19 participants that drove through the streets of Boardman in parade fashion led by the Boardman Police Department. This was a big hit and many people came out to watch in support.

The 5K walk had 40 walkers from around the area. After the 5K walk, everyone ended up at Burnt Field for music, raffle and fun.

“Although the turn out was smaller than we expected, I still feel good about what our community is doing to help this cause,” said Angie Flores. “ I hope it catches on and more people in the area support it next year.”

The walk will be held August 1, 2026 next year, and the Cruise In will be held on July 30th, so mark your calendars.

L-R Walkers Kelly Gardner, Wendy Griffin, Valerie Kreps and Teresa Gerrard, walked together to support Rise Up for Freedom

Ben and Margaret were thrilled to participate in the Cruise In. Everyone cheered for the cause.

Pictured left, L-R: Angie Flores, Michelle Erickson, and Brenda Connell, all wore their End Human Trafficking shirts for the 5K walk.

Pictured bottom right: Walkers/runners and stroller pushers all loved the new 5K route. There is something special about walking along the river trail.

Rise Up For Freedom 2025

Thank You

Burnt Field Boardman Police Department

North Morrow Times

Megan Fischer

Jane Pope

Jackie McCauley

Tom and Carol Jones

Michelle BrandtBoardman

Jumpstart Java

Jr and Dori Drago

Bee Blesst, LLC

$2,757.90

Miss Sam’s Beauty Smiley’s

Three Arrows

Mommy Made

Justin Westfall @Hosstyle

Tattoos in Pasco

Macarios Mexican Restaurant

Connell Company LLC

Gabriel Flores Trucking

Creative Touch by Kellie

Kellie Gardner

Gabriel Flores

Mountain Valley Land Company

Northeastern Oregon Jeepers

Paul McDonough

DJ Kora

Andrew Herman’s

All 5K participants

All Cruise In participants

Above: Brenda Connell and her family came out in support of the Cruise In and the fight against human trafficking.

Veteran Coffee Connection: Building community and camaraderie in Irrigon

Every Thursday morning, from 9-11 a.m., veterans from all walks of life gather at Stokes Landing in Irrigon for Veteran Coffee Connection —a weekly event that offers more than just a cup of coffee. It’s a space where those who served can share stories, enjoy companionship, and build meaningful connections with others who understand the unique experiences of military life.

For many veterans, the transition from military service to civilian life can feel isolating. Routines change, familiar bonds shift, and the sense of camaraderie that once defined their daily lives may feel harder to find. Regular opportunities for socialization are vital to maintaining mental health, reducing loneliness, and strengthening community ties.

Veteran Coffee Connection provides exactly that. In a relaxed and welcoming setting, veterans can laugh together, talk through challenges, and build friendships that extend beyond the Thursday morning gatherings. These connections not only help combat isolation but also create a support network that reminds veterans they are not alone in their journey.

The importance of social interaction for veterans is welldocumented. Studies show that strong social networks can reduce stress, improve overall health, and even decrease the risk of depression. For many, these simple gatherings become a lifeline—a consistent place to be heard, understood, and valued.

Whether you are a veteran

looking for camaraderie, or someone who simply enjoys good conversation and coffee, you are warmly invited to join the group. Veteran Coffee Connection meets every Thursday from 9-11 a.m. at Stokes Landing in Irrigon. Morrow County Veterans Service Officer Amanda Kendrick said, “Come for the coffee, stay for the connection”!

For more information, please call 541-922-6420. Stokes Landing is located at 195 Opal PL. Irrigon, OR.

L-R: Kari Ray and Amanda Kendrick, Morrow County Veteran Service Officer shared a good laugh together. Kari Ray is regular at the Coffee Connection, she and her husband enjoy talking with other veterans and sharing stories.

In 1950, Roy Drago was drafted and became a Platoon Sergeant in the 7th Infantry Division of the U. S. Army. He spent two years and then reenlisted for 3 more years. Roy is 95, he was born in 1929.

High School

recently visited the Veteran Coffee Connection at Stokes Landing. The Veterans enjoyed sharing their stories about their time in the service. They also invited the veterans to a military night at an upcoming football game on October 24th, with FREE entry for veterans and active, (ID required)

Pictured L-R: Gordon Lienau, Aaron Wetterling, Ed Ricketts, Dave Kirkpatrick, and Bob Daniels have coffee and refreshments while sharing brotherhood with each other.

Pictured L-R: John Walker, Becca Tasakas, John Thompson, Bill Reaves, and Bob Doyle enjoy visiting with fellow veterans.

Irrigon

Leadership class

Leadership student talking with a local Vet.

Umatilla Electric Cooperative’s Chris McMahon completes Certified Loss Control Professional Certification

HERMISTON, OR (September 2025) - Umatilla Electric Cooperative (UEC) Safety and Security Administrator, Chris McMahon, has completed an intensive program in electric utility safety and loss control.

The Certified Loss Control Program is a series of workshops offered by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) in conjunction with the National Utility Training & Safety Education Association. The program is designed to instruct participants in many areas related to electric utility industry safety.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Ad-

ministration, nearly 4 million injuries occur annually in the workplace. One of the goals of a Certified Loss Control Professional (CLCP) is to help ensure a safe work environment for utility workers and the public in general. Avoiding workplace accidents avoids down time and can ultimately help the utility control costs.

Chris McMahon is one of the few electric utility professionals in the country that will receive this certification this year. The program requires participants to complete a rigorous series of seminars and tests, a 30-hour OSHA course, and a detailed final course project.

Loss control participants go through four, week-long sessions that are designed to challenge and educate participants in new, innovative safety techniques. Participants must also maintain their certificate by attending courses every year in order to stay on top of changes in the industry.

“We are thrilled that Chris has invested the time and dedication to complete the CLCP program on behalf of the cooperative,” says Kevin Knutz, manager of operations. “We look forward to the countless ways Chris will use his knowledge to benefit our employees, and in turn, our membership.”

McMahon has been with the cooperative for four years and held many critical positions related to safety in the organization. Before joining the Umatilla Electric team, Chris was a law enforcement officer for over 20 years in the region. About Umatilla Electric Cooperative:

Umatilla Electric Cooperative is a not-for-profit, memberowned electric utility serving over approximately 11,000 members in Northeastern Oregon. With a focus on safety, reliability, and affordability, UEC is committed to powering growth, supporting local communities, and investing in a strong energy future.

Chris McMahon of Umatilla Electric, completed his certification for Certified Loss Control Professional.

Umatilla Electric Cooperative promotes Josh Burns to Vice President, Operations

Hermiston-Umatilla Electric Cooperative (UEC) is excited to announce that Josh Burns has been promoted to the role of Vice President, Operations beginning Oct. 1.

Burns began his career at UEC in Jan. 2024 as Project Administrator where he worked with the cooperative’s industrial members on economic development projects across the co-op’s service area. Since joining UEC, he also led the development of the Proud River Leadership Academy, a nine-month leadership course open to the community. The initiative is led by Burns and supported by the cooperative’s subsidiary business, Umatilla Basin Resources.

Before joining the Umatilla Electric team, Josh graduated from the US Air Force Academy and served as an Airfield Operations and Air Traffic Control officer. Upon completion of his service commitment, he started a career with Walmart logistics, becoming General Manager of the Walmart Distribution Center in Hermiston, Ore. During his 14year span with Walmart, Josh also earned his Master of Science degree in leadership and ethics from John Brown University. In 2020, Josh helped launch a commercial insurance agency in eastern Oregon.

In his new role, Josh will leverage his background in logistics and operational efficiencies to oversee the cooperative’s daily operations, supporting the co-op’s continued efforts in providing reliable service while balancing costs. Josh will focus heavily on safety processes, remain active in supporting UEC’s economic development initiatives, and support the ongoing growth of the cooperative.

“Josh’s leadership and vision have already made a positive impact at UEC,” says Assistant General Manager, Josh Lankford. “We look forward to seeing how his strong logistics background and passion for mentoring others will help

strengthen daily operations and continue to guide UEC into the future.”

Outside his professional career, Josh has been active in the Hermiston community for many years, serving on the Hermiston Chamber of Commerce Board, President of the Hermiston Rotary Club and a member of the Hermiston Planning Commission. He currently serves on the Hermiston Airport Advisory Committee, is a founding member of the HEROS Sportsplex and is a Board Director for the Bank of Eastern Oregon.

The promotion of Josh Burns into Vice President, Operations is an exciting step forward for UEC. His focus on safety, efficiency, mentorship and community service will continue to strengthen the cooperative and deliver longterm value to our members.

About Umatilla Electric Cooperative

Josh Burns, UEC new Vice President, Operations

Senior Spotlight- Doug & Jane Pope

By: Francis Glenn

Two of Boardman’s most active community members are Doug and Jane Pope. They both quietly work to make Boardman a good, friendly town. Both have quietly helped so many organizations or private people.

Doug arrived in Boardman in 1979 looking for work. The spotted owl had shut down the timber/lumber industry in central Oregon, and he had a family to support. Working for a few individuals for a time he then was encouraged to apply at the PGE Coal Fired plant. He was hired and worked there 35 years and 2 months.

He was raised in the Mt. Vernon area on a ranch and graduated in the class of 1966 and worked in the forest logging. He still used the talents he learned in the forest by providing split wood first for the Kiwanis club and then private people. He was a very active member of the Kiwanis until it closed in Boardman. One of his favorite activities was giving free dictionaries to grade school students. Most of the students were so excited to get their OWN book.

Athletics played a big role in his time in Boardman. He and Jane were active in helping get

the softball program started here in Boardman. Over their involvement they helped from T-Ball thru high school softball teams. They so enjoyed that. Both even played on a local mixed softball team and competed with other towns. He served on the Boardman Park and Recreation board for a period of time. He worked to encourage to use all of the facilities, and he helped plan events for the community to have fun.

American veterans hold a dear spot in Doug’s heart. He himself was in the military and served time in Vietnam. He has donated many military items to the Pendleton Aviation Museum and helps them when he can.

Jane arrived in Boardman in the late ‘70s. She’d been raised in the Lebanon, Oregon area and had been living in the Albany area when a friend asked her to come with her to see friends in the Boardman area. She liked it here so well she eventually decided to stay. She worked various jobs in the area including LambWeston and the Pendleton Court House. She spent 25 years working for OSU with the Seed Certification department as a field inspector and sampler for mainly grass and corn crops.

Together they have 5 children. And with the two youngest in the Boardman schools Jane was active as a parent, being a volunteer classroom helper and PTA volunteer who

helped out with school activities.

Their two youngest children very athletic, she was involved with the various sports programs.

In terms of athleticism Jane at one time and maybe still does, held/holds the World Record for power lifting in the dead lift. She lifted 281 pounds, in the deadlift category, a record for her age, gender, and weight. She completed in several contests around the Pacific North West.

Jane was also a member of Kiwanis for 16 years, until they closed the club. She is currently serving on the Board of Directors of the Senior Center here in Boardman.

With both now retired they do some traveling and when they do travel, they tell people about Boardman and the opportunities that are here and that the town is indeed a friendly place to live.

In 1992 Jane and Lynn Prag started the NORTH MORROW TIMES monthly local newspaper. Jane takes many of the photos that appear in the paper. She is an excellent photographer. In times past it was ok to take pictures of the Honor Roll students at the schools. Students always enjoyed seeing their picture in the paper.

In retirement they do a lot of canning with local produce, and they enjoy gardening each year. Jane is also a wonderful bread baker. Both do a lot of craft work, of all types.

BMCC News...

Fall Term is underway at Blue Mountain Community College. Classes kicked off on September 22 and it is good to have students back in the building. All BMCC locations have returned to regular hours which are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Later appointments are available for testing or advising upon request. Just a reminder that the BMCC Workforce Training Center is a BMCC testing location. We proctor BMCC and other college exams as well as Writing Placement tests. Call for more information at 541-481-2099

Though it seems early to think about next year when we have barely started this year, the 2026-27 FAFSA is already open and available for students planning to attend college next year. Representatives from BMCC will be traveling the college district in the next few months doing FAFSA workshops at the local high schools. FAFSA help for the current or coming year is also available by appointment at the BMCC Workforce Training Center in Boardman.

Fall Protection>Competent Person is on the schedule at the BMCC Workforce Training Center October 21-22, 2025. Contact D2000 Safety directly at 1-800-551-8763 to register. Also a one-day Forklift Train the Trainer is set for November 18 in Boardman.

The forklift simulator is available by appointment at the Boardman Center for anyone wishing to gain forklift operating skills or brush up on rusty skills. There is no charge to use the simulator and students will be given personalized instruction on the machine’s use.

BMCC is looking for people interested in leading community education classes at all BMCC locations. Do you have a talent or passion for a topic that others might want to learn? We would love to help you bring the vision to life. Check out the Community Education webpage at bluecc.edu/communityeducation for more information.

Building Permits for 24-25

Community Focus

Boardman Community Church

Pastor

Boardman

HERE’S MY CARD

THE NEXT EDITION of the NORTH MORROW TIMES will be in your mailbox: Friday, October 3, 2025. Deadline is Friday, September 26, 2025

Mail your entries to: North Morrow Times, PO Box 907, Boardman, OR 97818, or E-mail: NorthMTimes@gmail.com

The Boardman Park & Recreation District has an Executive Board position opening. The board is a five-person board who is charged with 3 duties: 1) Hire, oversee, and evaluate the CEO, 2) Ensure fiscal responsibility and sustainability, 3) Establish governance through policy. The District is requesting anyone who is interested in the position to write a onepage letter of interest. The letter should include the following: Ø Full contact information

(name, phone, address.).

Ø A brief introduction; including details of your professional background, skills, and key accomplishments.

Ø Explain why the person would like to be on the Board.

All letters of interest must be turned into the office at 1 west Marine drive by 5:00 pm, October 17, 2025, or mailed to: C/O George Shimer

BPRD PO Box 8 Boardman OR 97818

Tuesday Oct. 2nd: Dominic (Nic) Kotz with the Oregon Military Dept. will be speaking about the changes at what we know as the Umatilla Army Depot. Thursday Oct. 21st: Joe Taylor. He will tell us about the pumpkin patch and the many other things he is involved in

Lunch is available Tuesdays and Thursdays Noon to 12:30. Cost of the lunch is $5 for seniors and $6 for those age 54 and under. Take out lunches and catering are available. Contact Teresa Parson at 481-3257.

Boardman Senior Center

October Menu

Tuesday Oct. 7

White Chicken Chili

Corn Bread

Green Salad

Mini Burrito & Salsa

Peanut Butter Bars

Tuesday Oct. 14

Baked Ham

Potatoes & Gravy

Green Beans

Green Salad

Rolls

Jello Dessert

Tuesday Oct. 21

Baked Chicken

Rice & Gravy

Pasta Salad

Peas

Zucchini Bread

Tuesday Oct. 28

Shepherd’s Pie

Broccoli

Green Salad

Bread Pudding

Thursday Oct. 9

Baked Fish

Potato Wedges

Coleslaw

Corn

Lemon Bars

Thursday Oct. 16

Birthday Dinner

Bowtie Pasta w/

Sausage

Garlic Bread

Green Salad

Carrots

Cake & Ice Cream

Thursday Oct. 23

Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Baked Beans

Coleslaw

Chips & Dips

Thursday Oct. 30

Roast Beef

Potatoes & Gravy

Vegetable Stir Fry

Green Salad

Cheesecake