Issuu

Monmouth Santa, Snow White pitch perfect in holiday fete |

PAGE A3

Dallas

County

Metzler family found our friend the gnome | PAGE A2

November restaurant inspections |

PAGE A7

Wednesday December 27, 2023 | Volume 147, Issue 52

www.polkio.com

$1.00

Foul weather Afghan pilots were working for better life ends airport’s Three who died in crash had helped link to U.S. military aviation against Taliban history By DON CURRIE Itemizer-Observer

By LANCE MASTERSON For The Itemizer-Observer

A mini-exhibit at Heritage Museum sheds light on how the Independence airport helped shape aviation history. Mini-exhibits “highlight part of our collection where there’s not enough artifacts to make a permanent exhibit. But it is interesting and relevant to the community,” museum director Natascha Adams said. “So the Palms to Pines, I think, is super cool because it talks about a women’s air race” that is directly tied to Independence. Palms to Pines was held from 1969 to 2009. Thus, at 40 years, it was, and still is, the longest-running all-women air race in the country’s history, according to published reports. It attracted between 30 and 60 teams from throughout the country each year. The inaugural race attracted 34 teams, according to published reports. John Koich was the Independence connection. Koich approached his flight instructor, Claire L. Walters, about an all-women’s air race from Santa Monica, California, to his hometown of Independence - even though the airport here consisted of a grass field and no hangars. Walters accepted the challenge. She was associated with the race through its entire run and even distributed prizes in 2009. She died the following year. Santa Monica always served as the starting line. But Independence’s run as the finish line ended after 12 years due to foul weather, even though the race was held in summer. That year, weather forced the race’s abbreviated end after three legs. Bend airport then replaced Independence airport as the finish. Planes flew 750 miles over two days. The first leg ended in Merced or Modesto, the overnight stay was in Red Bluff or Redding, the third leg ended in Klamath Falls. Wally Funk is perhaps the most famous pilot to fly Palms to Pines. Her list of accomplishments include, but is not limited to, first woman air safety investigator, Federal Aviation Agency inspector, member of the privately-funded Mercury 13 team, which tested and screened women for space flight, according to published reports. See AIRPORT, page A5

It’s a haunting video. Mohammad Husain Musawi, a former member of the Afghan Air Force, tells the story of how he fled his native country after helping U.S. soldiers in the fight against the Taliban. In the final chaotic hours of the U.S. pullout, Musawi fled to

neighboring Tajikistan, then the United Arab Emirates, then to Virginia and finally to Oregon. “At that time I was very, very happy to find someone to help me to continue as a pilot,” Musawai says in the video. “A special thanks to help us to reach my dream and continue my flying as a pilot here.” Musawi, 35, was one of three men who died in a small plane crash Dec. 16 as they flew to Independence State Airport. The trio was returning from McMinnville in heavy fog and crashed into power lines along Hoffman Road. The crash remains under investigation. See PILOTS, page A7

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Mohammad Husain Musawi (left), Ali Jan Ferdawsi, and Bashir Safdari were pilots in the Afghan Air Force before resettling in the U.S. as refugees. They died in a small plane crash Dec. 16 as they returned to the Independence State Airport.

2023’S TOP READ STORIES

What got the most online views?

By DAVID HAYES Itemizer-Observer

The flipping of a calendar into a new year gives us the opportunity to look back at the previous year’s most memorable moments. For 2023, we’ve decided rather than the Itemizer-Observer staff choosing the top stories of the year, we instead chose to discover what our readers found most compelling. The list ran the gamut of topics from crime and the environment to saying farewell to beloved people and institutions. We dove into the analytics of our website and discovered the most read stories from Jan. 1, through Dec. 29.

Overall, www.polkio.com stories generated 47,752 page views. However, because statistics can uncover some anomalies, we narrowed the top 20 results down to stories written in 2023 (two archived stories were eliminate, a crime story update from 2011, and a feature of a car as lawn-tree ornament feature from 2005). Also eliminated were an obituaries (Kali Lou Roque) and a national entertainment post about model/entertainer Blac Chyna. Here then are the top 10 stories that drew our readers’ attention over the course of 2023.

Number 1: Rickreall Dairy is calling it quits after 33 years, 12,281 views

At more than 2 1/2 times more views than the number two story was the announcement in May that Rickreall Dairy was closing up operations after 33 years in the community. Stacy Foster explained that her father and owner of the Rickreall Dairy Louie Kazemier blamed the volatile industry for contributing to being unable to carry on the family business. He pointed to low milk prices, high feed costs and ever-increasing government oversight that

challenged the dairy industry for decades. “It just keeps getting worse,” Kazemier said. “I wouldn’t want to subject my children to the stress of the industry today. And it really doesn’t matter if you do everything right and make good business decisions — you still have no control over your milk prices.” Kazemier’s father-in-law, Gus Wybenga, purchased a small dairy farm in Rickreall in 1989 and moved his cows from Chino, California. See 2023, page A8

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IN THIS ISSUE Send us a news tip at ionews@polkio.com | Your message could be the first thing our readers see! Voices Corrections Obituaries Puzzle Solutions Social Puzzles Classifieds

A4 A4 A6 B3 B3 B5 B7

Weather W

Polk County Itemizer-Observer • December 27, 2023

Rep. Scharf requests special session Oregon Rep. Anna Scharf (District 23, R-Amity) joined Senator Brian Boquist (District 12, R-Dallas) in formally requesting a one-day Special Legislative Session to rebalance the weight mile tax. Article IX 3a of the Oregon Constitution requires the State Highway Fund to be fair and equitable to light and heavy users alike to ensure that cars and trucks pay their fair share of the usage of the road. Cars pay the gas tax, while diesel trucks pay their portion through the weight mile tax. The biennial Highway Cost Allocation Study (HCAS) is used to understand the cost responsibility of each class of vehicle. The 2021-23 report showed that heavy vehicles were overpaying by 16%, while the 2023-25 report showed heavy vehicles were overpaying by 31%. According to a press release from Scharf and Boquist, during the 2023 session, the majority party knew of this imbalance and refused to address it and have no plans to address it in the upcoming 35-day session in 2024. This constitutional violation must be addressed in a Special Session. Based on the 2023-2025 HCAS, the Department of Transportation has estimated that trucks will overpay by approximately $193 million per year. That is over $500,000 in taxes being collected every day in violation of the state constitution, they explained. While the weight mile tax is paid by trucks, the cost is passed onto Oregonians as increased prices on goods and services they use every day. The real people overpaying are the working class, seniors on fixed incomes, and families. “Without trucks, families and communities in Oregon would not have access to the products they rely on. Yet, the State is knowingly overtaxing them in violation of the constitution,” Scharf said about her effort to call a special session. “It is more expensive to operate a truck in Oregon than any other state in the nation. We simply cannot force trucking companies and independent truckers to shoulder the burden of Oregon’s transportation taxes and continue to knowingly violate Oregon’s Constitution. A one-day special session can remedy this situation now. Under Article IV Section 10a of the Oregon Constitution, a member from each chamber may submit a formal request for a special session. Scharf and Boquist submitted this formal request Dec. 15. Each member of the Legislature were sent a ballot, where a majority of both chambers will have to vote in favor of the special session for it to take place. Ballots were slated to go out to members last week and will be due back within 14 days. The estimated date that a special session could take place would be the week of Jan. 8, which coincides with pre-planned Legislative Days, a week in which lawmakers are already planning to be in Salem to prepare for the February Short 35-day Legislative Session.

Readying supplies of Christmas Cheer PHOTO BY DAVID HAYES

About 350 volunteers showed up Dec. 24 to help local non-profit Dallas Christmas Cheer load up food deliveries for 526 families in need within Polk County. Organizers Warren and Sue Lamb said in addition to donations, their two biggest fundraisers, Christmas in July at Benedetto Vineyards raised more than $10,000 and the Glow Run generated more than $8,000. to purchase supplies for their deliveries.

Santa, Snow White pitch perfect in holiday fete Make Music days originated gives them an opportunity in France and are now celeto do that,” Marazzani said. brated internationally. They “People can let loose and Santa Claus and Snow are held bi-annually throughsing outside the shower, and White helped the Make Music out the world, but only on the we can pass caroling on to Winter even more special. summer and winter solstices. younger generations. There’s The annual event, now in “So the date is always something about singing its second year locally, was set, and as much as we’d together in a group that sponsored by the Monmouthlove to see it held earlier in just brings the community Independence Chamber of the month, we’re not going together. Being able to do that Commerce and held at The is great.” Gate Community Youth Center to be able to do that, ever,” said MICC Director Nikki If there’s anyone who Dec. 21. It featured caroling, Marazzani. “Because we have knows the joys of singing, music making, hot chocolate Oregon weather, we chose not especially when a group drinking, and arts and crafts to do an outdoor activity.” is involved, it’s Jeff Witt, project-ing. But it was the There is no manual on the former choir and drama legends of folklore and movies that perhaps generated the how to celebrate Make Music teacher at Central High most excitement. Winter. Traditional caroling School. Santa Claus flew to the is preferred in some com“Community singing is event solo, leaving the wife, munities while others prefer one of the best things there elves and most of his flying parades with Christmas clasis,” he said. “So getting reindeers at the North Pole. sics blaring from a procesa bunch of people to sing Whereas Snow White arrived sion of trucks. The preferred together is a fantastic thing. It with an entourage of Disney method in Salem was a pub brings a sense of community. royalty: Alice from “Alice crawl, Marazzani said. Everybody ’s doing the same in Wonderland”, Belle from A simpler approach was thing, the same time, and “Beauty and the Beast” favored locally. nobody’s judging each other. and Ariel from “The Little “It’s just kind of an effort to It’s just the joy and the spirit Mermaid,” to name a few. put together a community fun of the season.” The stars’ ability to capture thing for families,” Marazzani Witt recently opened his the hearts and minds of little said. “It’s a goodwill event. own insurance office, and was ones appeared unwavering, It’s not meant to be anything one of several sponsors for the despite many years in the more than what it is.” event. limelight, an opinion based Community sponsors pro“Music is a passion in my solely on a non-scientific vided funding for arts and life … So when (Marazzani) study of how many boys and crafts supplies, hot chocolate, said she needed sponsors for girls sat in Santa’s lap and ornaments and musical instru- the music night. I was like, converged excitedly around ments for the children to play. that’s perfect timing,” Witt the princesses. “Just being involved with said, “Oh, it’s so much fun, Make Music Incorporated is He contributed rhythm meeting new friends and very special and gives us the sticks, cymbals, shakers and everything,” Snow White said opportunity to do something other simple instruments for in a voice lifted straight from that’s happening all over the the children to play that night. Disney lore. “We just wanted country. A lot of people have They will soon be donated to to bring a little magic to never caroled before. So this a children’s music program. Oregon.” There was also time for displays of mutual admiration as when the big guy himself took “where it comes from the heart.” a selfie with one of the princesses to share with friends Beautiful flowers for any occasion and family back home. So while Santa did his Santa thing, the princesses added their voices to the FROM OUR HOME TO YOURS night’s entertainment. “We’re going to sing some We are committed to offering only the finest floral arrangements and gifts, backed by service that is friendly and wonderful Christmas carols,” prompt. Delivered from our Home-based Studio. Snow White said early in the We deliver locally & ORDER BY PHONE OR WEBSITE evening. worldwide through The princesses appeared courtesy of Oregon’s Fairytale www.heartstringsflorist.com Project, based in Salem. Mon-Fri - 10am-4pm | Sat - 10am -3pm | Closed Sunday This event wasn’t limited follow us on FaceBook for more updates to Monmouth-Independence. By LANCE MASTERSON For The Itemizer-Observer

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Santa takes time from his busy schedule to snap a selfie with a Disney princess during last week’s Make Music Winter. The event was organized by the Monmouth-Independence Chamber of Commerce and hosted at The Gate Community Youth Center.

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VOICES

Polk County Itemizer-Observer • December 27, 2023

TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH:

By DR. KEITH ROACH

Estrace Cream Is Safe to Use in Woman Who Had Melanoma DEAR DR. ROACH: I am a 70-year-old woman who has been using Estrace vaginal cream weekly for several years. I am in excellent health, work out daily, run half-marathons and have my own business. I take 10 mg of atorvastatin daily. Ten years ago, I had melanoma removed from my arm. My concern is the use of Estrace. My gynecologist recommended that I use it after a Pap smear, but my primary care physician is not of the same mind. I would appreciate your opinion on this. My mother had breast cancer in her 80s, my sister had uterine cancer, and my brother passed away from bladder cancer. -- C.S. ANSWER: As far as the safety of using estradiol (Estrace), the bioidentical hormone to major natural estrogen, I am definitely of the same opinion as your gynecologist. When used topically, it works on the vulva and the lining of the vagina, keeping the tissue healthy. Without estrogen, the tissues that line the female perineum can become atrophic (thinned), predisposing a woman to discomfort, infections and incontinence. The Pap smear may have resulted in a finding that was suggestive of vaginal atrophy (increased neutrophils). Without treatment, the labia can even fuse together. With long-term use, the estrogen levels in the body are only slightly higher in women who use topical estrogen compared to those who do not, so the absorption into the body is minimal. The only case where I get concerned is with someone who has a personal history of an

estrogen-sensitive tumor, such as endometrial cancer and some breast cancers. In those cases, I discuss options with both the patient and their oncologist. *** DEAR DR. ROACH: Are you aware of any correlation between celiac disease and restless legs syndrome (RLS)? My 72-year-old husband has had RLS for decades. He currently takes gabapentin and pramipexole, but still has symptoms. Plus, he has periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD), which occurs while he’s asleep. He isn’t aware of it, but it can keep me awake; we sleep in separate beds when it gets bad. -- C.S. ANSWER: The terminology can be confusing. Most people with RLS have periodic limb movements of sleep (PLMS), which sound very similar to your husband’s symptom. PLMD is a separate sleep issue that doesn’t include other RLS features, such as an uncomfortable sensation in the legs while they’re at rest that causes an urge to move them. A person with RLS often has PLMS, but doesn’t have PLMD. There is an increased risk of RLS among people with celiac disease. Most authorities tie these two together through iron deficiency. Unless celiac disease is managed with meticulous attention to diet, the body has difficulty absorbing iron. Iron deficiency is very frequently found in people with RLS, and iron deficiency makes RLS worse. The diagnosis of iron deficiency needs to be made carefully because most people with RLS and iron deficiency do not have anemia. A ferritin level, rather than a blood count test, is the best initial test. If he does have iron deficiency, then treatment with iron supplementation can sometimes dramatically improve those nighttime symptoms. Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable to answer individual questions, but will incorporate them in the column whenever possible. Readers may email questions to ToYourGoodHealth@med.cornell. edu. (c) 2023 North America Synd., Inc. All Rights Reserved

Letters to the editor Thank you for years of Christmas spirit

I miss that it will never be there

“Wendy’s looking for Polk County

again as they have donated the dec-

Oregon wealthy investor to make

orations. As a neighbor, I have been

risky investment in vehicle fueling

lucky to view and drive through

There are times when a person

the display many times during the

ful thing year after year without

to say Thank You, I have enjoyed

of our community does a wonder-

many Christmas seasons, so I want

any acknowledgment or thank

the beauty and whimsical display for

yous. A resident at the corner of

and Wendy’s combo development.” I reached out and applied and jumped through all of their hoops and was turned down as they want you to have a minimum of $500,000

many years. You made your commu-

Rhododendron and FirVilla has dis-

played a wonderful Christmas scene

nity proud.

in liquid cash and a personal net

Dallas

is not looking for an entrepreneur

worth of $1 million minimum. That

Joyce Cramer

on their front lawn for many, many years. I have always watched them

with the skills and grit to open

put it up so that they could light it

Wendy’s seeks wealthy investor, it lit through the Christmas Season. It has been well done and enjoyed not skilled by many who come by every year to see it. You can’t help but feel a warm entrepreneur

their risky combo development. It

up right after Thanksgiving and keep

is Wendy’s looking for a wealthy investor to share the risk in investing in a business model that McDonald’s tried and failed at. Login Hartt

Your “Wendy’s seeks entrepreneur

seasonal feeling and it surely puts a smile on your face.

in Pol County” article should read

Dallas

Will you face 2024 with fear STRANGE BUT TRUE or fearlessness? By LUCIE WINBORNE

• In 1837, Thomas Saverland took Caroline Newton to court for biting off part of his nose after he forcibly kissed her at a party. • The original Xbox had sound snippets of real space missions. • Korean college students once launched a protest against the amount of air in potato chip bags by building a raft out of them and sailing it across a river. • When Michael Orchard broke into his neighbor’s burning home to rescue their dog, his heart was in the right place but his timing wasn’t: The house fire was merely his LSDinduced hallucination. • Frozen cow manure was the first-ever puck used in a hockey game.

CORRECTIONS If you see anything that requires a correction or clarification, call the newsroom at 503-623-2373 or send an email to dhayes@polkio.com

WEATHER RECORDED High Low Rain Dec. 18.............. 46.............36 0.02 Dec. 19.............. 58.............42 0.39 Dec. 20............. 51...............35 0.00 Dec. 21.............. 44.............40 0.00 Dec. 22............. 49.............33 0.19 Dec. 23............. 39.............30 0.00 Rainfall during Dec. 18-23 .60 in. Rain through Dec. 23 — 6.78 in.

• The word “thug” comes from 1350s India and the Hindi word “thag,” which means “deceiver” or “thief” or “swindler.” • Ten thousand light years away from Earth, a huge cloud 1,000 times larger than our solar system’s diameter contains enough alcohol to fill 400 trillion pints. To drink it all, everyone on Earth would have to drink 300,000 pints each day for 1 billion years. • A violin known as “the Blackbird,” carved entirely from stone, produces sound comparable to traditional wooden violins. • Research has shown that people born in September, October and November are more likely to live 100 years or longer. • French performer Michel Lotito, aka “Monsieur Mangetout,” or “Mr. Eat All,” could hardly be accused of being a picky eater, having earned a Guinness World Record for strangest diet. His gastronomic feats included downing bicycles, razor blades and even an entire airplane. • Much like humans, chimpanzees use strategic high ground for reconnaissance on rival groups during “chimp warfare.” ••• Thought for the Day: “Every day the clock resets. Your wins don’t matter. Your failures don’t matter. Don’t stress on what was, fight for what could be.” – Sean Higgins

By DR. GLENN MOLLETTE

Wages are not keeping up with the cost of living. The cost of groceries, fast food, building materials, and most anything you can name has increased dramatically. Millions of Americans are Social Security recipients. The modest increase coming in January will feel like a drop in the bucket. Every little bit helps and it will truly be a little bit compared to the financial needs of senior adult Americans. Almost every day we see the national reports of the thousands of undocumented immigrants flooding our country, This does not make us feel very secure. Our government could stop this but they don’t. We have the ability to stop this insane invasion of America but for some reason our leaders obviously want the masses to keep coming. This is fearful. How will these people survive in America? Where will they live? Are there jobs for all these people? Is this really fair and helping them when so many of them will have to sleep on the streets of our major cities? I don’t see how. Will this invasion become the eventual end of the America we have enjoyed, without a shot being fired? Politics is not comforting to most Americans. Who can we trust? Is

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anybody telling the truth? Are all politicians liars and thieves? Do they all have nasty baggage in the closet? Are there any real leaders that we can respect and admire without having to look down or look away when we mention their names? Yes, there are those we believe in but none of them are perfect and most are far from perfect. Of course, no one is perfect. This is nerve wracking for Americans, especially in such a crucial election year. We are constantly bombarded with pleas for support. Currently it’s Ukraine. Ukraine obviously needs help. It’s difficult for us to fathom billions of dollars for Ukraine when we won’t secure our own borders and protect our own citizens. How does this make sense? Interest rates may come down in 2024 but will they come down enough? A seven percent rate on a $40,000 car is a tough payment for many Americans. The housing market is struggling. Who can afford a $350,000 house along with a seven or eight percent loan? Obviously not many as home sales are badly slumping right now. There is a lot to scare us in this world. Cancer, diabetes, neurological diseases, and more. When we do get sick there is the price tag that

comes with waging a medical war to survive. So often, people postpone going to the doctor because they don’t want to see the medial bills and this ends up being a very unhealthy and often deadly decision. The whole scenario is fearful. However, life is not to be lived in fear. Fear freezes us, paralyzes us, and overcomes us. We seldom move forward when frozen by fear. My hope for all of us is that we might overcome fear in our lives and dethrone the beast from ruling over us in 2024. My hope for you is that you might have the power of God in your life in such a way, that his presence will be greater in you than all the fears we are facing in the world. May you have this power in you in such a way that you will face this next year with strength and fearlessness.

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NEWS DEADLINES

Social News | 5p.m. Thursday

Dr. Glenn Mollette is a graduate of numerous schools including Georgetown College, Southern and Lexington Seminaries in Kentucky. He is the author of 13 books including UncommSense, the Spiritual Chocolate series, Grandpa’s Store, Minister’s Guidebook insights from a fellow minister. His column is published weekly in over 600 publications in all 50 states.

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Letters To The Editor | 1p.m. Friday Obituaries | 1p.m. riday

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TOWN CRIER

Enhanced sheriff’s patrol nets extra results

During th month of November, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office partnered with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Oregon Impact for an enforcement campaign to reduce the risk of dangerous crashes due to impaired, speeding and distracted drivers. During this time, there were enhanced marked patrols conducted by the members of the PCSO. The enhanced enforcement resulted in 52 hours of extra patrols, 83 traffic stops, three arrests and 19 citations. This enhanced enforcement was made possible through grant funding of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and by Oregon Impact.

Use fireworks legally, safely for New Years

New Year’s Eve is popular for families and friends to gather for celebrations. Often those celebrations involve fireworks. While it is legal to purchase and discharge consumer fireworks within Dallas city limits, there are inherent dangers to improper use. The city of Dallas and its public safety partners encourage all who celebrate New Year’s Eve in the community to do so safely. Oregon law bans possession, use, or sale of fireworks that fly, explode, or travel more than six feet on the ground or 12 inches into the air. Fireworks commonly called bottle rockets, Roman candles, and firecrackers are illegal in Oregon. Call (503) 831-3516 (non-emergency) to report illegal or nuisance fireworks where there is no immediate threat to life or property, no active fire, or no active injury. Do not call 911 unless there is an immediate threat to life or property. Call 911 to report fire or injury caused by fireworks.

Sheriff’s office seeks information on suspicious death

The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is seeking information related to a suspicious death on De Armond Road, near Airlie Road, in rural southwest Polk County. The body of Francisco “Frankie” Javier Davidson, 37, of Aumsville, Oregon, was found on the morning of Nov. 26. The last area that Davidson was known to frequent was Salem. The PCSOS requests that anyone with knowledge of Davidson or his whereabouts leading up to Nov. 26 to contact Detective David Shorter at shorter. david@co.polk.or.us or (503) 831-1753. Callers can remain anonymous. As the investigation is open and ongoing, no additional is available at this time.

Polk County Itemizer-Observer • December 27, 2023

Community Calendar Dec.27 -Jan.3 Wednesday, Dec. 27

• 7 a.m. - Monmouth Library Board meeting, Monmouth Public Library, 168 Ecols St. S. • 8 a.m. - Yoga, Monmouth Senior Center • 9 a.m. – Polk County Commissioners meeting, Polk County Commissioners’ Conference Room, 850 Main St., Dallas • 9 a.m. - Stretch Exercise, Monmouth Senior Center • 9:30 a.m. Independence Municipal Court, City Hall, 555 South Main St. • 10 a.m. – Four Handed Pinochle, Dallas Area Senior Center • 10 a.m. - Tai Chi, Monmouth Senior Center • 10:30 a.m. - Little Bitty Storytime, for babies and young toddlers, Dallas Public Library, 950 Main St. • 10:30 a.m. – Independence Library Storytime, 175 Monmouth St. • 11 a.m. – Mahjong, Dallas Area Senior Center1 • 1 p.m. - Ten Minute Writing, Monmouth Senior Center

Thursday, Dec. 28

• 8 a.m. - Yoga, Monmouth Senior Center

• 10:15 a.m. - Low Impact Exercise, Dallas Area Senior Center • 10:30 a.m. - Songs, bounces and rhymes, for ages under 2, Monmouth Public Library, 168 Ecols St. S. • 10:30 a.m. - Children’s Storytime, for ages 5 and under, Dallas Public Library, 950 Main St. • 11 a.m. - Walking Club, Monmouth Senior Center • 11:15 a.m., - Low Impact Exercise, Dallas Area Senior Center • 12 p.m. - Bridge, Dallas Area Senior Center • 5:30 p.m. - Thursday Pinball Tournaments, West Valley Taphouse, 957 Main St., Dallas

Friday, Dec. 29

• 8 a.m. - Yoga, Monmouth Senior Center • 9 a.m. - Stretch Exercise, Monmouth Senior Center • 10 a.m. - Brunk Farmstead tours, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Polk County Historical Society members free, non-members $5, seniors $4, 5705 Salem Dallas Highway NW • 10 a.m. - Writers Workshop, Monmouth Senior Center • 1 p.m. - Tai Chi w/ Cheryl, Monmouth Senior Center

• 10 a.m. – Six handed Pinochle/Listening Ear, Dallas Area Senior Center • 6 p.m. - Live Music: Midnight Pass, Redgate Winery, 8175 Buena Vista Road, Independence • 6:30 p.m. - Acoustic Music Jam, Guthrie Park, 4320 Kings Valley Highway S. • 7 p.m. - Bailey Heide, Golden Hop Saloon, 133 C St., Independence

Saturday, Dec. 30

• 10 a.m. - Brunk Farmstead tours, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Polk County Historical Society members free, non-members $5, seniors $4, 5705 Salem Dallas Highway NW • 6 p.m. - Live Music: Myrtle Brown and the Executive Groove, Redgate Winery, 8175 Buena Vista Road, Independence

Sunday, Dec. 31

• 8 p.m. - New Year’s Eve Party, Golden Hop Saloon, 133 C St., Independence

Monday, Jan. 1 • Happy New Year Tuesday, Jan. 2

• 8 a.m. - Yoga, Monmouth Senior Center

• 9 a.m. – Polk County Commissioners Work Session, Polk County Commissioners’ Conference Room, 950 Main St., Dallas • 10 a.m. - Financial Education for Seniors, Monmouth Senior Center • 10:15 a.m., - Low Impact Exercise, Dallas Area Senior Center • 10:30 a.m. - Children’s Storytime, for ages 5 and under, Dallas Public Library, 950 Main St. • 10:30 a.m. - Family Storytime, Monmouth Public Library, 168 Ecols St. S. • 11 a.m. - Alzheimer’s Support Group, Dallas Area Senior Center • 11:15 a.m., - Low Impact Exercise, Dallas Area Senior Center • 12 p.m. - Pinochle/ Ponytail, Monmouth Senior Center • 1 p.m. - Bunco/Needle Arts Craft Group, Dallas Area Senior Center • 6 p.m. - Dallas City Council work study/ meeting, City Hall, 187 SE Court St. • 6:30 p.m. - Monmouth City Council meeting, Monmouth Senior Center, 180 S Warren St.

Wednesday, Jan. 3

• 7 a.m. Monmouth Library Board meeting,

Monmouth Public Library, 168 Ecols St. S. • 8 a.m. - Yoga, Monmouth Senior Center • 9 a.m. – Polk County Commissioners meeting, Polk County Commissioners’ Conference Room, 850 Main St., Dallas • 9 a.m. - Stretch Exercise, Monmouth Senior Center • 9:30 a.m. Independence Municipal Court, City Hall, 555 South Main St. • 10 a.m. – Four Handed Pinochle, Dallas Area Senior Center • 10 a.m. - Tai Chi, Monmouth Senior Center • 10:30 a.m. - Little Bitty Storytime, for babies and young toddlers, Dallas Public Library, 950 Main St. • 10:30 a.m. – Independence Library Storytime, 175 Monmouth St. • 11 a.m. – Mahjong, Dallas Area Senior Center1 • 1 p.m. - Ten Minute Writing, Monmouth Senior Center • 7 p.m. - Monmouth Planning Commission meeting, Volunteer Hall, 144 South Warren St.

Community Briefs Moonfall Theatre performs “Holiday Dreams” Dec. 29-30

Moonfall Theatre presents “Holiday Dreams,” Dec. 29-30, at 7:30 p.m. at the Dallas Event Center, 939 Main St. Open bar starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20. Learn more at Facebook.com/moonfall97371 or by emailing latitudeone@ hotmail.com.

YMCA offers parents night out

Have last minute shopping to do? How about a night of self-care? The MonmouthIndependence YMCA offers Parents Night Out Dec. 29 from 6:30-9-3:30 p.m.. The Y provides your kids with a night of entertainment and joy, plus snacks included, for ages 5-12. The cost is $10 for members and $25 for regular community members. To register go to bit.ly/3TFWq0i or for more information, call (503)-838.4042 or stop by the membership office, 425 Gwinn St., Monmouth.

A irport A mini-exhibit at Heritage Museum From Page A1

These reports add Funk, at age 82 in 2021, became the oldest person (at that time) to experience suborbital flight when she was launched into space aboard the Blue Origin. New life was given to Palms to Pines in 2022 when the Los Angeles Chapter of the 99s reconvened the race. But the local story might have gone untold if not for the diligence of museum staff and volunteers. For it was through their efforts that enough artifacts were found for an exhibit. Artifacts found include programs, patch, key chain, mugs, t-shirt and correspondence between race organizers. Not to mention information for the text and graphics display. “We used to have some boxes that weren’t labeled. So we are systematically going through everything, making sure it’s in our database. In

Heritage Museum hosts traveling exhibit “Confronting Violence: Improving Women’s Lives”

The Independence Heritage Museum hosts a traveling exhibit from the National Library of Medicine, “Confronting Violence: Improving Women’s Lives” through Dec. 30 at the Heritage Museum, 281 S 2nd St, Independence. The traveling exhibition and companion website tell the story about nurses working to reform a medical profession that failed to acknowledge domestic violence as a health issue and not a legal matter. Beginning in the late 1970s, these nurses were in the vanguard as they pushed the larger medical community to identify victims, adequately respond to their needs, and work towards the prevention of domestic violence. Learn more at www. orheritage.org/events-1/ month-of-nov-dec-confronting-violence-improving-womens-lives. doing that, we actually found artifacts related to the Palms to Pines,” Adams said. “It’s nice to highlight women in the community, as well. So it felt like a no-brainer once we found the additional artifacts.” Uncovering stories like the Palms to Pines race isn’t the only reason staff inventories the collection. “We have to go through and make sure we know everything that’s there,” Adams said. “Generally speaking, a museum systematically goes through (its) things to make sure they are being preserved correctly.” The museum is always on the lookout for more artifacts. Sometimes they enter through the door. “Our donors represent a collection of people who have found a thing here or there and brought it in,” Adams said. “We know folks have things about Independence. We all have that box in our attic, of photographs or memorabilia, that the museum would love to either acquire or, when it comes to photographs, digitize them and give the originals back.”

Corby’s hosts New Year’s Harry Potter party

Corby’s Pub is hosting a Harry Potter themed New Year’s Party. There will be Harry Potter themed drinks. Ditch your house and come on down and enjoy a magical night into the new year from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. at 962 Main St. in Dallas.

Darr family hosts Warm & Fuzzy clothing drive

The Darr’s Warm and Fuzzy clothing drive is collecting donations for those in need in Polk County through Jan. 6. The Darr family returns for their 37th year collecting gloves, socks, hats, sweaters, coats and blankets. Drop off donations to Starlite Lanes, located at 394 Main St., in Dallas. For more information, call (503) 787-3888.

VFW hosts veterans’ breakfast Jan. 6

The Polk County VFW host a Veteran’s Hi Okay breakfast Jan. 6 from 9-11 a.m. at Museum staff are becoming experts on the art of digitizing, thanks partly to a collaboration with the University Oregon and its historical newspaper project. The university has “newspapers from its collection online. We reached out to them to ask if they had the same newspapers we had, and they didn’t,” Adams said. “So, we’re scanning all of that, and we’ll be able to give those digital files to the university, which makes them globally available to folks. So it’s super exciting for a museum our size to be able to contribute something like that.” A visiting exhibit from the National Library of Medicine ends at the end of the month. Entitled “Confronting Violence,” it’s 12 panels on how nurses and healthcare workers in the 1970s pushed for domestic violence to become a healthcare issue. “Confronting Violence” is in English and Spanish. In January, the museum hosts a youth art show in conjunction with the Community Services Consortium.

the Territory Restaurant in the Independence Hotel, 206 Osprey Lane. This is a chance to meet other veterans and chat over breakfast. The cost of the breakfast is $10.

7th Annual Winter Coat Drive returns to Independence

The Greenwood Group presents the 7th Annual Winter Coat Drive through the winter season that benefits the Ella Curran Food Bank. Donation boxes are available at EXP Realty Office, 163 D St., in Independence, and at the city of Independence Civic Center, 555 Main St.

Registration for 2023/24 Basketball runs through Jan. 8

Welcome to the Basketball Registration for Polk County. Basketball is the only Winter sport being offered in Polk County at this time. We are looking for any athletes, unified partners, and anyone interested in helping with coaching a team or being there at practices to support the

athletes/teams. For more information, go to bit.ly/47SJ0m7.

NRCS hosts work group meeting Jan.26

Natural Resources Conservation Service is holding a local work group meeting at 9 a.m. Jan. 26 at Chemeketa Eola Northwest Wine Cellar, 215 Doaks Ferry Road NW, West Salem. NRCS seeks input from farmers, ranchers, state and federal agencies, agriculture and conservation organizations regarding natural resource conservation priorities and opportunities to invest collaboratively in Polk County. For more information, contact Morgan Neil at morgan.neil@polkswcd.com or (503) 623-9680.

Polk Soil and Water Conservation District hosts Winter Native Plant sale

Polk Soil and Water Conservation District is offering 31 varieties of native trees and shrubs for sale. You can pre-order your plants now and pick up Feb. 2-3. Find out more at www.polkswcd.com.

PHOTO BY LANCE MASTERSON

Heritage Museum director Natascha Adams oversees an exhibit on the Palm to Pines race. The exhibit details the Independence airport’s role in shaping aviation history with the Palm to Pines, the longest running women’s air race in the country. For 12 years, beginning in 1969, the airport served as the race’s finish. The Palms to Pines exhibit runs through January. Keeping a museum fresh is essential if you want people to return. “People are starting to learn that our exhibits change,” Adams said of the Heritage

Museum. “You don’t want people to come into the museum and say, okay, that’s cool, and then never come back. So we try really hard to change things around quite a bit.”

Polk County Itemizer-Observer • December 27, 2023

Dwight Gard Triplett April 27, 1943 - Dec. 19, 2023

Dwight Gard Triplett, of Monmouth, Oregon, passed away peacefully after a long battle with lung cancer the morning of Dec. 19, 2023. Dwight was born April 27, 1943, in Bend, Oregon. He was the third of four children born to Arthur and Clara Triplett, descendants of a family who originally homesteaded in the Bend area in the 1800s. The family relocated to the Salem area in 1949, and Dwight eventually graduated from North Salem High School. Following high school, he attended the University of Oregon for one year before transferring to the Oregon College of Education, now known as Western Oregon University, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in guidance counseling. After graduating he taught in Gervais, Oregon, before eventually moving on to the North Salem School District where he was honored as Educator of the Year in 1968. In 1972, in search of a new adventure, he declared that he wanted the world in his hand and made a career change to work in sales for Hunt Wesson in New York City. The career change and relocation to New York wasn’t the only bright spot for Dwight as he met and married Mary Margaret Buckaway, known to all as Maggie, in 1973. Dwight’s new career eventually spanned multiple companies and continents as he became a renowned expert in the nuances of international business. The stories from his expat days in The Philippines, Taiwan and South Korea became legendary in his gatherings of family and friends. In 1987 Dwight and Maggie relocated back to the United States, landing in California before a stop in Chicago and eventually settling in Greeley, Colorado. Upon his retirement in 2001, Dwight and Maggie relocated to Oregon and opened a flower shop called Petals and Vines in Monmouth. Dwight sunk his numerous talents into helping run the new family business while simultaneously delivering flowers to residents all across the central Willamette Valley. His flower delivery exploits became almost as legendary as his earlier adventures in Asia. He leaves behind a legacy of family and friends who knew him well, and he was a fixture at Western Oregon athletic events, and more importantly spent as much time as he could watching his numerous grandchildren achieve new heights in their own pursuits.

Dwight is survived by his wife Mary Margaret Triplett; younger sister Charlotte Triplett Williamson; his daughters Sarah, Martha, and Kathryn; and 11 grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents Arthur and Clara, and his older brothers Geary and Hervey. The family asks that donations in his name be made to student scholarship funds at Western Oregon University (www.wou.edu/give – please list in the memo Dwight’s name.) Dwight’s service will be held on Jan. 20 at Community Life Church, 189 Monmouth Ave S, Monmouth OR, 97361. The time will be announced at a later time. Please refer to Bollman’s Tribute Center’s website for updates. Bollman’s Tribute Center is caring for the family.

Lois Ann Johnson Whitaker

Aug. 24, 1928 - Dec. 16, 2023

Our wonderful mom, Lois, was born on Aug. 24, 1928, in Portland, Oregon, to Robert and Anna Johnson. We all wish she could have lived forever, but Dec. 16, 2023, at just 95 years old, she died peacefully surrounded by family. Lois was a 1946 graduate of Albany High School, attended Linfield College where she was the Queen of the “Sweetheart Ball” in 1947, and graduated from Corban College at the age of 82 . . . yes, she was amazing! Lois fell in love and married Harold Whitaker in May 1952, and they shared their lives together until Harold passed away in September of 2006. They owned several businesses: The Decorated Wall in Dallas, A & W’s as well as other restaurants in Salem until they claimed to retire in 1997. Lois enjoyed reading a book a day for most of her adult life (yes, she was amazing), quilting, traveling, music, and especially spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Lois is survived by a giant family, that all believe she was the greatest person that has ever lived - besides Jesus of course, including her five daughters Julia Rose (Tony), Karen Palmer (Bob), Cindy Friesen, Jan Winters (Dave), Marcy Wellman (Mark) each claim they were her favorite; 13 grandchildren Angela Castano (Jason), JD Winters (Crystal), Katie Barbar (Jon), Tyler Winters (Jillian), Erika Balcazar (Emmanuel), Ashley Cain (Nick), Libby Moon (Jeffrey), Cory Wellman (Shelby), Alexa Braunworth (Peter), Jordan Friesen (Jerolyn), Jared Wellman (Baily), Taylor Eisenhower (Mark), Matthew

Friesen (Caitlyn) - all adored and loved her deeply; and 39 great-grandchildren, each one knew they were special to her and loved making her special things that she would proudly display on her walls. As you can tell, Lois Ann Johnson Whitaker will be so deeply missed. She loved Jesus and is with Him now what an amazing thought. We know she was greeted by our dad and so many friends that had gone before her. Every one of her family members listed above loves Jesus too - so we have great hope knowing we will see her again. Our entire family want to thank Sweet Bye N Bye, where our mom lived for the last three years. They loved her and took good care of her - we are forever grateful for the wonderful care she received. A private graveside service will be held in January for the family. Those who wish to send memorial gifts may make contributions in Lois’ name to Southwest Washington GAP Foundation providing food and basic needs to youth and families. Southwest Washington GAP Foundation c/o Cindy Friesen 966 E 15th Circle La Center, WA 98629 Arrangements by Bollman’s Tribute Center, Dallas, Oregon. Online condolences may be sent to www.dallastribute.com.

OBITUARIES

She is survived by her husband, Troy; sons Cameron and Carson; her mother Gwen; and stepfather Steve Villwock. She was preceded in death by her father Tom Robinson in 2014. A Celebration of Lisa’s Life will be announced in the future. Memorial contributions may be made to Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. To leave an online condolence or share a memory with the family go to www. BollmansTributeCetner.com. Bollman’s Tribute Center is caring for the family.

Maria Guadalupe Sandoval

Dec. 29, 1914 – Dec. 14, 2023

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QUESTIONS • 1. The main Christmas story is paraphrased from what two New Testament books (KJV)? Mark/John, Acts/Romans, Matthew/Luke, Jude/Revelation • 2. Who visited Jesus on the night of His birth and found Mary, Joseph and the babe lying in a manger? Innkeeper, Shepherds, Herod, Magi • 3. Where was the young child when the Magi came to visit Him to present gifts? Manger, Under the stars, House, Temple • 4. How many times does the word “Christmas” appear in the Bible (KJV)? Zero, 1, 2, 7 • 5. Who was King of Judaea at the birth of Jesus

Maria Guadalupe Sandoval died Dec. 14, 2023.

in Bethlehem? Solomon, Herod, Balak, Belshazzar

Carol Ann Young

Lions and bears, Sheep and goats, Cows and don-

May 21, 1943 – Dec. 16, 2023

Carol Ann Young died Dec. 16, 2023.

Richard Scott

Jan. 19, 1933 – July 30, 2023

Richard’s family invites his friends to gather in his memory on Saturday Jan. 20, 2024, from 2-4 p.m. in the Dye House at Willamette Heritage Center (Mission Mill Museum), 1313 Mill St. SE, Salem.

• 6. What animals were present at Jesus’ birth? keys, No mention of animals

ANSWERS

1) Matthew/Luke, 2) Shepherds, 3) House 4) Zero, 5) Herod, 6) No mention of animals (in Bible)

Lisa Overstreet

We Rise By Lifting Others. - Robert Ingersoll

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Lisa Overstreet, a resident of Dallas, Oregon, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 13 at the Salem Hospital. Lisa was born July 6, 1967, in Dallas, Oregon, the daughter of Tom and Gwen Robinson. Lisa attended elementary and junior high schools in Dallas and graduated from Dallas High School in 1985. Lisa attended Western Oregon State College and graduated with a bachelor’s degree. Lisa married Troy Overstreet on April 21, 1997, and they had two boys. Lisa’s career began by serving as an intern at Hillcrest Youth Correctional Facility. She then worked at Polk County Juvenile Department for four years. Lisa worked at Linn County Juvenile Department as a supervisor for over 30 years. Lisa was always involved in sports, playing softball from childhood through her college years. She then went on to cheer on her two sons as they played soccer and other sports. Lisa never missed one of her children’s sporting events. Lisa enjoyed camping in Baker City and spending time at the beach with her family.

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Polk County Itemizer-Observer • December 27, 2023

2023 Top stories From Page A1

Kazemier worked for his father-in-law as the dairy manager and eventually became a partner in 2011. The Rickreall Dairy typically cared for an average of 3,500 cows at any given time. As such, the state mandated they use a “closed loop” waste facility that led to the installation of the infamous lagoon, located within yards of Highway 22. “You could usually smell us before you could see us,” Kazemier joked. Regardless the aroma, the dairy attracted at its peak, more than 2,000 visitors every spring to tour the facility. While Kazemier indicated at the time the farm would be leased to other farmers, a financier from Benton County is exploring the option of purchasing the property to construct a recycling facility. For updates on those plans, go to https://rehubholdings.com.

Number 2: Singh family opens third Center Market in Dallas, 5,572 views

Family businesses continued to generate the most views in 2023, as evidenced by a simple ribbon cutting story. BJ Amrit opened his 36th Center Market store in September, the third in Dallas alone. His son, Amrit Singh, operations director for the family business, explained the former Thrifty Market at Rainbow Avenue was purchased in January and had been under renovation until its grand reveal. He estimated between 100-200 people attended the ribbon cutting to get a first-hand look a the redesigned store that now featured coffee and ice machines, a beer cave, a hot deli, a wider grocery selection, ice cream, cigarettes, better pricing and a local owner. “We love it. It’s a great community to be in, we love the people. They’re friendly. Everybody at this point has become like a family,” Amrit said. “It’s great seeing, from

the first store to the third, seeing the same, great faces, at each location. Plus add a family with new customers we see every day. We love seeing the same faces here, from kids all the way to grandma and grandpa.” He added, if customers see something the store doesn’t have or needs, just let the Singhs know, and they’ll do their best to bring it in.

Number 3: Dallas woman killed making wrong-way turn, 2,347 views

Sometimes something as inconsequential as a wrong turn ended in tragedy in 2023. Readers were drawn to the simple law enforcement announcement that Lorine Wooldridge, 66, of Dallas, was killed in a head-on collision. Investigators determined after making a wrong turn onto Rickreall Road, Wooldridge attempted to make a u-turn back onto the highway. She ended up going the wrong direction and was struck in the driver’s side door by another motorist. Polkio.com archives are full of multiple reports of deaths at the intersection of Rickreall Road as motorist attempt to make awkward turns onto either eastbound or westbound Highway 223, exacerbated by limited sight lines as oncoming traffic mount a nearby hill. While multiple ODOT constructions projects are underway or slated for future builds to improve highway safety, so such plans exist yet for this intersection.

Number 4: Dallas couple takes Bronco to 50th state on 50th anniversary, 2,123 views

Some things are just in the numbers. For Dave and Sandy Loewen of Dallas, the numbers aligned in 2023 to accomplish a rare milestone, if ever done before (a Google search failed to turn up a similar tale). They drove their 50-year-old special edition Stroppe’s Ford Baja Bronco in all 50 states, completing the journey on their 50th anniversary in the 50th

state - Hawaii. No, they did not drive across a little known highway to reach the tropical islands. They shipped their classic vehicle toHawaii where it waited with friends until their arrival. While in Hawaii from Aug. 8-22 this year, the Loewens somehow logged another 1,200 miles on the Big Island. “We did a lot of off roading, including over lava flows, totaling 1,200 miles on the island in two weeks. We’d been to Hawaii before. And when I rent a car and return it, the rental agencies are always, ‘How can you get that many miles? We’re on a small island.’ I like to drive,” Dave always answered simply. Of the two accomplishments, Dave said visiting the 50 states was harder than staying married for 50 years. “We get along well together. A perfect match,” he said. “A lot of people congratulate us. It is work. Marriage is not a walk in the park,” Sandy added. “But I say we were lucky that we met each other, because we could have met somebody else that didn’t work.”

Number 5: Growing elk herd creating unsafe environment for motorists, farmers, 1,780 views

Readers learned road hazards were no only caused by other drivers on Polk County’s back roads. Sometimes, it’s mother nature guiding large elk herds to roam wild creating unexpected obstacles for unaware motorists. In January, a resident on Elkins Road posted to his Facebook page the image of the crumpled front end of his car, caused by an elk he struck in the middle of the darkened road, late at night. Polk County Public Works confirmed an elk herd around Soap Creek, west of Pacific Highway and just north of the county’s southern border, is migrating further north each season. “The Salt Creek Herd is a pretty large herd we’ve been dealing with,” added Greg Reed, district wildlife biologist

for the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. “We estimate there’s 400+ elk in that herd.” In addition to being a road hazard, Reed said the large herds are causing agricultural damage to the landscape, crushing and eating crops and damaging trees. The county has tried to raise awareness for motorists to the danger of the elk herds in the area and the state has expanded hunting tags, as long as local landowners authorize hunters on their properties.

Number 6: Duo finds perfect fit for ever expanding Harvest CrossFit, 1,758 views

Dallas continues to be a beacon for growing businesses and drawing the interest of our readers. Harvest CrossFit’s expansion into the old Some Things furniture store space proved a perfect location to accommodate MacLarin and Devin Jones’ growing clientele. “The old space was 5,200 square feet, and we really could only work out in just under 4,000 square feet,” Devin said. “This is 11,000 square feet. We can actually work out 9,000 square feet.” Their 715 Main St. location is the third to host their gym since they joined the crossfit craze in 2014. Approaching a new year, the Joneses offer crossfit as an alternative weight loss option to resolutions dooomed to fail. “I feel New year’s resolutions steer them to regular gyms where they can fly under the radar. We’re different than that. You don’t get to fly under the radar here. You are really known by your coaches and your peers you’re working out with,” MacLarin said. “We see an influx in the Spring and approaching Summer because sometimes when people’s New Year’s resolutions have failed them, and their hiding has resulted not going anymore.”

Nnumber 7: Olliff stepping aside as head coach of Dallas wrestling, 1,735 views

Spilling off the sports page was Tony Olliff’s

announcement in November he was stepping aside as head coach of the Dallas High School wrestling team after more than 20 years in that role. He clarified he was remaining with the program as an assistant to new head coach Austin Markee, long-time coach for the middle school program. A 1987 graduate of DHS, Olliff returned to take over the wrestling program in 2002, best described by some as “fair to middling.” Olliff had his first state champion the next year (Brett Easton), his first of 12 district titles in 2009 and two state team titles since then. While it was Olliff who inspired a generation of wrestling success for the Dragons, he actually credits the community for making the program welcoming for more than troubled youth. “It’s not uncommon for me to see the superintendent, principal, vice principal, athletic director at away competitions, like away duels,” Olliff said. “So the support that I’ve experienced in my 22 years is vastly different then what my dad experienced when he was here. Wrestling was considered by some to be a place where you put troubled kids.”

Number 8: Homeless meeting overflows with opposition, 1,664 views

While Church at the Park prepares its case to develop a homeless micro-shelter village in Dallas, it was their first attempt to implement the plan in Monmouth that drew more readers. The Monmouth community attended in standing room only meeting May 1 to hear the church’s sales pitch to the board directors at Christ’s Church in Monmouth. The plan proved unpopular as the proposed location was undeveloped park space adjacent to Christ’s Church. Some expressed safety concerns over locating a homeless shelter village within a residential neighborhood while others worried it would be a magnate for homeless living outside the county.

Number 9: Cornelius man arrested for shooting death of Polk County teen, 1,544 view

On Nov. 27, the Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office sought the public’s help investigating the shooting death of a Polk County teen. A day later, they had their suspect. Readers tuned back in to learn the YCSO Special Investigations Unit arrested Brendan Dante Waco, 19, and charged him with murder in the second degree for a shooting incident on Northwest Russell Creek Road in rural Yamhill on Nov. 27. Waco was lodged in the Yamhill County Jail and bond was withheld. The ongoing case was expected to lead to the arrest of other suspects associated with Waco.

Number 10: West Salem jeweler arrested for scamming customers, 1,542 views

Another crime story closes out our top 10 stories list. This time, readers rushed to learn more about Douglas Wayne Gamble who allegedly scammed customers out of his store, Timeless Jeweler, in west Salem. Gamble was arrested on Sept. 15 for his involvement in the theft of $250,000 in gemstones and jewelry pieces from customers, dating back to late 2022. Customers alleged their property was lost when doing business with Gamble, others reported lab-grown stones were sold as natural diamonds, or diamond jewelry settings were swapped with synthetic stones. Additional customers reported never receiving purchased items or pieces left with the shop for repair, or other services. According to the Salem Police Department, a total of 27 people fell victim to Gamble with a total aggregate loss estimated between $700K and $800K. Gamble remains lodged in the Polk County Jail.

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Polk County Itemizer-Observer • December 27, 2023

Salinas bill to amend Grand Ronde Reservation R E S U L T S Act passes Senate, will become law Weekly

CLASS 5A Dec. 16-23 CENTRAL HIGH • Boys Basketball • Dec. 15: Central 54, Cascade 55 • Girls Basketball • Capitol City Classic Corbin University • Dec. 16: South Salem 58, Central 55 • Dec. 19: Central 57, St. Mary’s 24 • Dec. 20: Central 67, Putnam 60

DALLAS HIGH • Boys Basketball • Seaside Holiday Tournament - Seaside HS • Dec. 14: Madras 58, Dallas 41 • Dec. 15: Dallas 38, The Dalles 69 • Dec. 16: Elma (WS) 48, Dallas 45 • Girls Basketball • Dec. 14: Dallas 22, North Salem 47

CLASS 1A FALLS CITY/KINGS VALLEY CHARTER HS • Boys Basketball • Dec. 21: Falls City 53, Southwest Christian 44 • Girls Basketball • Dec. 21: Falls City 24, Southwest Christian 55

PERRYDALE • Boys Basketball • Dec. 18: Perrydale 67, Santiam 55 • Dec. 20: Perrydale 43, Portland Christian 78 • Girls Basketball • Dec. 18: Perrydale 8, Santiam 36 • Dec. 20: Perrydale 40, Portland Christian 35

Legislation to amend the Grand Ronde Reservation Act, which restores the right to pursue land claims and compensation for the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, has cleared both chambers of Congress. The bill, proposed by U.S. Representative Andrea Salinas (OR-06) and U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), now heads to President Biden to be signed into law. The bill, first introduced by Salinas in March as her first piece of legislation, passed the U.S. House of Representatives early last month. Merkley has long championed the bill with success in the Senate, where it passed this week with unanimous support. The legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Earl Blumenauer (OR-03), Val Hoyle (OR-04), and Lori Chavez-DeRemer (OR-05), as well as U.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.). “I am deeply proud that my amendment to the Grand Ronde Reservation Act has passed the Senate and will soon become law. This is a

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To read the full bill text, go to bit.ly/3GPpbAa. historic moment not only for the Grand Ronde Tribe, but for Indigenous peoples in Oregon and across the country,” Salinas said. “At long last, the Grand Ronde Tribe will finally have the right to pursue land claims and compensation once again. I am so grateful to Senator Merkley, my Oregon colleagues, and everyone who helped get this important legislation across the finish line, and I look forward to seeing it signed into law in the coming days.” Salinas and Merkley’s bill to fix the Grand Ronde Reservation Act corrects a drafting error in a 1994 legislative amendment to the Grand Ronde Reservation Act, which authorized a land exchange requiring the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to compensate the Grand Ronde Tribe for an 84-acre survey error by the federal government. The survey error occurred around 1871 and was

not discovered by the Bureau of Land Management until 1988. In 1994, in pursuing federal legislation to rectify the error, an amendment was made to the bill at the time that further prohibited the Tribe from making any additional land claims if new errors were ever discovered. “Words cannot express what this means to us and the pure joy I had hearing the news,” said Grand Ronde Chairwoman Cheryle A. Kennedy. “This amendment to the Grand Ronde Reservation Act is about correcting a historical wrong and restoring equity to the Tribe. We will forever be grateful to all those that worked to make this possible.” Salinas and Merkley’s bill will end this inequitable restriction on the Tribe so that they may pursue recourse if additional survey errors are found. Currently, no other tribe in the State of Oregon

is bound by this type of legal restriction and removing it will restore equity to the Grand Ronde Tribe. In case additional survey errors are discovered, this bill to amend the Grand Ronde Reservation Act would replace the phrase “lands within the State of Oregon” with the phrase “the 84 acres known as the Thompson Strip,” clarifying that they are only prohibited from making additional land claims to the area known as the Thompson Strip. “A gross injustice against the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde is finally ending, and a new chapter of healing and justice for the Tribal community can begin,” Merkley said. “Nearly three decades ago, the Grand Ronde sought to fix a historical surveying error within their reservation boundary, only for the federal government to make another error that relinquished the Tribe’s rights to future land

claims and compensation. I’ve long championed legislation to correct this egregious injustice. With the strong partnership of Representative Salinas, it is finally becoming a law that will ensure the Grand Ronde has the legal ability to restore its right to pursue land claims in Oregon—rights already available to other federally-recognized Tribes in Oregon.” Wyden lent his strong support fro the legislation. “As a nation we must address past mistakes. I will fight for every Oregon Tribe to ensure the federal government is fully and equitably honoring its obligations and responsibilities to them,” Wyden said. To read the full bill text, go to bit.ly/3GPpbAa.

Sheriff’s Office warns of new phone scam Once again, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office is receiving notifications that scam calls are on the rise. This time, someone claims to be “Sergeant Gearhart” with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. Someone also reported they use the name “Matthew Hamilton.” If the person is able to reach who they called, they state something along the lines of “you missed jury duty for a federal court matter.” If the person they called does not answer the phone, they leave a message claiming to be this sergeant with the PCSO and leave a callback number of (503) 647-3902. If you actually call this number back, you get a voicemail for

someone else claiming to be “Sergeant Crawford” with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. If you listen carefully, you can hear a lot of noise in the background of the message, indicating the person is inside a call center with many other people talking on the phones at once. The PCSO has neither a Sergeant Crawford, nor a Sergeant Gearhart, working for their agency. These scam calls attempt to target individuals who would panic hearing they’ve missed jury duty and rush to fix the issue. Rest assured, this is NOT how you are notified of missing jury duty. Jury matters are separate from criminal issues that law enforcement deals with,

so a deputy/officer would not be the one to call you. Additionally, the PCSO does not give out warrant information over the phone, so no one from their office would call you to say you have a warrant our for your arrest and they can arrange to “settle” it with

you if you pay them money (aka your “bond”). The PCSO learned two victims they heard from paid the scammers thousands. This is life changing money that people need, especially this time of year. Please share this information with everyone

New vehicle charging stations coming to the Oregon coast The Oregon Coast Visitors Association (OCVA) reports a significant milestone in sustainable tourism — funding approval for 82 new electric vehicle (EV) charging ports along the Oregon coast. The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) Community Charging Rebates Program ran its first funding round from June-October this year, and awarded $1.75 million toward 370 new charging ports statewide.

A total rebate amount of $364,971 was allocated for projects spanning the Oregon coast. “This is exciting news that demonstrates a strong commitment locally and statewide towards goals of sustainability and resiliency in Oregon Coast tourism,” the OCVA states in a release. The ODOT Community Charging Rebates Program will result in the installation of 82 new EV charging ports

throughout the Oregon coast. Of the total rebate funds, 24 percent was dedicated to supporting coastal initiatives, ensuring that the Oregon coast remains accessible and welcoming to electric vehicle users. OCVA’s mission is to inspire travel and strengthen collaboration to create and steward a sustainable coastal economy. The OCVA said its Mitigation, Adaptation and Resiliency Plan, outlines goals

specific to supporting decarbonization and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions on the Oregon Coast. Electric vehicle infrastructure is a key part of this work and a priority for OCVA. “As people change how they travel, the coast needs to be prepared with EV infrastructure so travelers have places to charge their cars when they travel here, keeping us top of mind as a sustainable and accessible tourism

you know so no one else gets duped. “We are always devastated hearing from people that are out money due to these scams because they were trying to do the right thing and stay out of trouble,” the PCSO wrote on their Facebook page.

destination,” the OCVA states. “With this goal in mind, we are excited to see $364,971 allocated for EV projects spanning the Oregon Coast.” This is the first of three funding rounds, according to the OCVA. More opportunities will be available throughout the year. Contact Finn Johnson (resiliency@thepeoplescoast. com) if you’d like to learn how your business or organization can apply for and receive these future rebates..

DHS ATHLETE OF THE WEEK CHS ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Gabe Decker

Hadley Craig

Sophomore - Swim team

Gabe Decker performed extremely well at our meet with West Albany & Central. He achieved a 4th place in the 50 free with a time of 26.44, and a 3rd place in the 100 free with a time of 56.57 He is our most experienced swimmer on our team who also swims year round with the swim club. He’ll be swimming different events as well in the future.

GO DRAGONS!

CONGRATULATIONS FROM: HOME COMFORT INC.

1827 S Main St, Dallas, OR 97338 503-623-2341

Junior - Basketball

Hadley had a double double in our first game and

My days as a Central High School football was our leading scorer in our second game. player taught me about teamwork and sportsmanship. These are lessons I still use as I represent House District 20. Best of luck & life’s lessons to Central High School’s athletes this season.

GO PANTHERS! Panthers! Go

CONGRATULATIONS FROM OREGON HOUSE REP. PAUL EVANS

Paid for by Friends of Paul Evans, PAC # 16508

503.986.1420

900 Court Street NE H-471, Salem Rep.PaulEvans@oregonlegislature.gov

SOCIAL

Polk County Itemizer-Observer • December 27, 2023

PAGES

FLASHBACK

OF THE

PAST 50 years ago Dec. 26, 1973 Polk receives late “gift”

Polk County received a belated “Christmas gift” Wednesday in the form of a revenue sharing check from Basket Slough National Wildlife Refuge. The check for $9,083.14 represents three quarters of one percent of the cost of the area including the refuge. The payment check is adjusted for changing property values every five years.

Lyn Hardy considering race for state office

Lyn hardy, Polk County Clerk and Recorder, announced today he is giving serious consideration to entering the race for State Representative, District 34, Polk and Benton Counties. This seat is presently held by Robert Marx.

DHS Cagers capture two

The Dragons won backto-back basketball games last week to run their season’s

record to 4 and 1 overall and to 1-0 in league. Thursday night, Central came to town for a crossleague contest and the Orange and Black dropped the visitors by 11 points, 67-58. The next day, the Dragons traveled east to Baker and blasted the Intermountain League Bulldogs 66-38.

40 years ago Dec. 28, 1983

Polk thaws out from ice, snow

Polk County is starting to thaw out from a week-long chilling weather pattern that has caused much inconvenience, but minimal serious damage and only minor injuries. As of Tuesday afternoon, the extended weather forecast for the Salem area called for rain likely on Thursday and Saturday. Lows during th at period are expected to be in the 30s with highs in the 40s. Those temperatures will be a welcome relief from last week’s below-freezing

FILE PHOTO

This week’s Flasback if is from Dec. 28, 1983: Christmas can crew - Mark Hise of Dallas was part of the crew of volunteers who packed Christmas Cheer boxes of food and gifts for needy families in the Dallas area Saturday morning. They were delivered that day to more than 120 families. Curt Lamb directed the effort. readings that set records throughout the nation, including the Salem area.

Christmas holidays keep county firefighters busy

A wood-stove fire that caused more than $8,000

damage Saturday was just one of several incidents that kept

Polk County fire officials hopping last week.

“From the amount of calls

we’ve had, we figure we’ve

put in some 300 man-hours,”

Western Oregon University alumni creates an impact on the community In their ongoing series highlighting the achievements of alumni, Western Oregon University honors Emily Swart, class of 2020. Swart majored in interdisciplinary studies, leading her to embark on a career as the donor relations manager at Marion Polk Food Share. Through her dedication and passion, Swart has made a significant impact on the lives of countless individuals facing food insecurity. At Marion Polk Food Share, Swart secures funds to distribute one million pounds of food monthly. Swart said this is made possible through the hard work of volunteers who sort donations from retailers, food drives and local farmers. The warehouse supports food pantries and collaborates with local programs such as Church in the Park, Boys & Girls Club and Western’s food pantry.

Swart’s journey to success was not a linear path. She found guidance and support at Western after high school where she majored in interdisciplinary studies. This allowed her to explore her interests and nurture her curiosity.

Swart credits the university for providing the direction she needed to fine-tune her skills, which paved the way for her career. “If you come to Western with an open mind and you lean on your professors and

said Dallas Police Chief John Barnard.

DHS girls tripped by Spartans

The Dallas High School girls’ basketball team had its record dropped to 1-5 after a

39-24 loss to Marist on Dec. 19 The Dragons stayed close until halftime, trailing only 17-14. But a 12-4 burst by the Spartans in the third period put the game out of reach for Dallas.

Dec. 27 - Jan. 3 Answer key. Puzzles can be found on page B5

the staff, they’re going to help you dig even deeper into what you’re interested in and passionate about. What makes Western special is they take students like me and launch them into jobs like this,” Swart said.

Community

Achievement each term an honor roll of

Alexandra Tobin undergraduate students who makes Belmont earn 12 or more credits that are not of a pass/no pass University nature and who earn a grade dean’s list point average of 3.50 or Alexandra Tobin of West Salem qualified for Belmont University’s Fall 2023 Dean’s List. Approximately 52 percent of Belmont’s 7,338 undergraduate students qualified. Dean’s List eligibility is based on a minimum course load of 12 hours and a quality grade point average of 3.5 with no grade below a C.

Western Oregon University announces Fall 2023 Honor Roll Western Oregon University announces the undergraduate students that have been named to the Honor Roll and President’s List for their academic honors for fall 2023. In recognition of academic achievement, the university makes public at the close of

higher. The following Western students have been named to the Fall 2023 Honor Roll List:

Amity

Alexander Bliven, Aiden Brown and Jeremiah Distler

Dallas

Katelyn Cooley, Lukas Dyer, Seth Ellingsworth, Jamie Glendinning, Luke Hagedorn, Daria Harris, Jake Hendrickson, Brieanna Howard, Saarah Johnson, Ashlie Lee, Brady Parksion, Shelby Rayburn, Angie Rodriguez, Tommy Segovia, Maverick Smith, Courtney Stalmann, Danielle Wagner, Cora Watkin, Amy Beth Whitfield, Logan Beck, Maddie Blanchard, Braden Bollman, Danielle Bosse, Naomi Cruickshank, Drea Dalke, Amity Deters, Measia

Fenn, Kala Geissinger, Caleb Ihne, Antonette Jurewicz, Morgan Kumnick, Cameron Mance, Braxton McFarland, Nicole McKinney, Justus Mikkelsen, Wesley Mullins, Benjamin Nelson, Cassy Parker, Shane Pelinski, Riley Petersen, Katie Reimer, Daniel Ryden, Kameron Spicer, Lily Toma, Dawn Waddell and Emily Webb

Falls City

Amber Houghtaling, Kassidi Thompson, Brynn Abeling and Sophie Davis

Independence

Lynzey Arp, Blanca Avila, Annabella Bakarich, Ashley Baker, Evie Branske, Stacie Carter, Regina Castro, Vanya Martinez, Julissa Mateo, Kassidy Noon, Alejandro Ortiz Villanueva, Grace Petersen, Fabian Prado, Alexis Ramos, Elle Robischon, Lizbeth Rosales Paredes, Perla San Miguel Morales, Nic Smith, Joshua Wall, Miryam Waterman Cervantes, Gwyneth Couey, Abby Davis, Anabelen

Garcia Estrada, Stephanie Herrera, Angel Larios, Jesus Larios, Norma Manzo Jauregui, Angela Mendoza, Chris Ortega Robles, Gracee Potter, Gisselle Rodriguez, Sofie Stonebrink, John Thoma

Monmouth

Marcie Pacheco, Esmeralda Amescua, Isaac Bordadora, Jackson Bouchard, Emma Diehm, Brayden Farmer, Melissa McDonald, Emilie Means, Franco Melgar Martich, Skyler Neyenhuis, Joshua Peters, Brianna Plumb, Brynn Rodrigues, Jackson Schoenbachler, Justina Shepard, Lilly Sims, Victoria Statsenko, Riley Stearns, Martin Trujillo, Crystal Tungate, Paru Dahal, Katie Dufner, Kaylee Hatch, Emily Heisinger, Berean Jones, Ellister Katz, Adam Logan, Jane Montgomery, Easton Pomrankey, Kaitlyn Puffpaff, Zoe Robb, Carrie Visuano, Mary Way and Kaitlyn Woodard

Make your name known! Contact our Advertising Team to find out how.

polkio.com 503.623.2373

Polk County Itemizer-Observer • December 27, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICES IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF Polk Probate Department Case No. 23PB09566 STEVEN VAN PELT, AMENDED LIMITED JUDGMENT FOR Deceased. ADMINISTRATION OF INTESTATE ESTATE AND APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE (Correcting Decedent ‘s Name in Caption) In the In the Matter of the Estate of STEVEN VAN PELT, Deceased. The court accepts the Petition of Katelyn Van Pelt for the probate of the abovenamed Decedent’s estate (“Estate”) and finds the allegation of the Petition to be true. IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED and ADJUDGED that: 1. The estate is admitted to probate; 2. Katelyn Van Pelt is appointed as Personal Representative of the Estate with full powers; 3. No bond is required pursuant to ORS I3. 105(2) (b); and 4. Letters of Administration shall be issued forthwith to the Personal Representative in the manner provided by law. /s/ Rafael A. Caso, Circuit Court Judge UTCR 5.100 CERTIFICATE OF READINESS I, Abel Soriano, certify that the foregoing proposed limited judgment is ready for judicial signature because service is not required pursuant to UTCR 5.100(3) or by statute, rule or otherwise, or the filing is submitted ex parte. DATED: November 21, 2023 /s/ Able Soriano, OBS 174685 Attorney for Petitioner

No.

(Dec. 13, 20, 27, 2023) This is an action for Judicial Foreclosure of real property commonly known as 850 PIEDMONT AVE NW, SALEM, OR 97304 A motion or answer must be given to the court clerk or administrator within 30 days of the date of the first publication specified herein along with the required filing fee IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF POLK Case No. 22CV36435 SUMMONS DEFENDANTS JP MORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff v. MARTIN GUIJOSA; THE ESTATE OF JUVENTINO GUIJOSA; THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, ASSIGNS AND DEVISEES OF JUVENTINO GUIJOSA; ALAN JUVENTINO GUIJOSA-CONTRERAS; OSBELIA CONTRERAS; AND ALL OTHER PERSONS OR PARTIES UNKNOWN C L A I M I N G A N Y R I G H T, TITLE, LIEN, OR INTEREST IN THE REAL PROPERTY COMMONLY KNOWN AS 850 PIEDMONT AVE NW SALEM, OR 97304 Defendants TO DEFENDANTS THE ESTATE OF JUVENTINO GUIJOSA; THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, ASSIGNS AND DEVISEES OF JUVENTINO GUIJOSA: IN THE NAME OF THE STATE OF OREGON: You are hereby required to appear and defend the action filed against you in the aboveentitled cause within 30 days from the date of service of this Summons upon you; and if you fail to appear and defend, for want thereof, the Plaintiff will apply to the court for the relief demanded therein. Dated: October 26, 2023 ALDRIDGE PITE, LLP By: /s/ Michael J. Page OSB#194328 Of Attorneys for Plaintiff (858) 750-7600 (503) 222-2260 (facsimile) orecourtnotices@ aldridgepite.com Aldridge Pite, LLP 1050 SW 6th Ave, Suite 1100 Portland, OR 97204 NOTICE TO DEFENDANT/ DEFENDANTS READ THESE PAPERS CAREFULLY You must “appear” in this case or the other side will win automatically. To “appear” you must file with the court a legal paper called a “motion” or “answer”. The “motion” or “answer” must be given to the court clerk or administrator within 30 days (or 60 days for Defendant United States or State of Oregon Department of Revenue) along with the

required filing fee. It must be in proper form and have proof of service on the plaintiff’s attorney or, if the plaintiff does not have an attorney, proof of service on the plaintiff. If you have questions, you should see an attorney immediately. If you need help in finding an attorney, you may contact the Oregon State Bar’s Lawyer Referral Service online at www. oregonstatebar.org or by calling (503) 684-3763 (in the Portland metropolitan area) or tollfree elsewhere in Oregon at (800) 452-7636. NOTICE TO ANY VETERAN OF THE ARMED FORCES

Representative. All persons having claims against the Estate are required to present them to the Personal Representative at 693 Chemeketa Street NE, Salem, Oregon 97301-3732 / Post Office Box 2247, Salem, Oregon 97308-2247, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice or said claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by this proceeding are advised that additional information may be obtained from the records of the Court, the Personal Representative, or the attorneys for the Personal Representative.

If you are a veteran of the armed forces, assistance may be available from a county veterans’ service officer or community action agency. Contact information for a local county veterans’ service officer and community action agency may be obtained by calling a 2-1-1 information service.

Melvin Sutter Personal Representative

(Dec. 13, 20, 27, 2023, Jan. 3, 2024)

Date of first publication: December 13, 2023

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF POLK (Probate Department) Case No: 23PB10392 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS In the Matter of the Estate of ONDINA LUCIA DEVOE, Deceased. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Paulette Jaeger has been appointed personal representative. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present them, with vouchers attached, to the Decedent’s Personal Representative’s attorney, Cassie N. Hutton, Howard Law Group, LLC, at 1114 12th Street SE, Salem, OR 97302, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice, or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings may obtain additional information from the records of the court, the personal representative, or the lawyer for the personal representative, Cassie N. Hutton, 1114 12th Street SE, Salem, Oregon 97302. Dated and first published on December 12, 2023. /s/ Cassie N. Hutton, OSB No. 191678 Attorneys for Personal Representative 1114 12th Street SE Salem, OR 97302 Phone: (503) 363-9264 Fax: (503) 363-2250 Email: cassie@howardslaw. com (Dec. 13, 20, 27, 2023) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF POLK PROBATE DEPARTMENT Case No. 23PB09947 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PARTIES IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF NANCY LEORA HALHOULI, Deceased. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that JULIE ANN MINAHAN has been appointed as Personal Representative of the Estate of NANCY LEORA HALHOULI. All persons having claims against the Estate are required to present them, with vouchers attached, to Personal Representative at: JULIE ANN MINAHAN c/o Kueny Law LLC 3040 Commercial St. SE, Suite 135 Salem, Oregon 97302 within four months after the date of first publication of this notice, or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings may obtain additional information from the records of the Court, Personal Representative, or the lawyer for Personal Representative, Rebecca S. Kueny, 3040 Commercial Street SE, Suite 135, Salem, OR 97302 Dated and first published on December 13, 2023. Published December 13, 20, 27, 2023 (Dec. 13, 20, 27, 2023) NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS In the Circuit Court of the State of Oregon for the County of Polk Case No. 23PB10102 In the Matter of the Estate of Mayetta Maxine Bushnell, Deceased. Notice is hereby given that Mayetta Maxine Bushnell died July 26, 2023, and that by order of the above-entitled Court, the undersigned has been appointed Personal

Sherman, Sherman, Johnnie & Hoyt, LLP Attorneys for the Personal Representative 693 Chemeketa Street NE, Salem, Oregon 97301-3732 / Post Office Box 2247, Salem, Oregon 97308-2247

Second and third publication: 12/20/2023; 12/27/2023 (Dec. 13, 20, 27, 2023) Notice of Preliminary Determination for Water Right Transfer T-13919 T-13919 filed by Opa’s Acres LLC, Attn: Oliver Raab, PO Box 15010, Salem, OR 97309, proposes a change in character of use under Certificate 36547 and Certificate 39082. Certificate 36547 allows the storage of 1.21 acre-feet from an unnamed intermittent stream in Sec. 27, T6S, R5W, WM for storage for stock use in Gilles Reservoir in Sec. 27, T6S, R5W, WM. The applicant proposes to change the character of use to storage for irrigation, agricultural use, livestock use, and fire protection. Certificate 39802 allows the storage of 6.5 acre-feet from an unnamed drainage way in Sec. 27, T6S, R5W, WM for storage for stock use (enlargement of Matt Giles Reservoir No. 1) in Sec. 27, T6S, R5W, WM. The applicant proposes to change the character of use to storage for irrigation, agricultural use, livestock use, and fire protection. The Water Resources Department proposes to approve the transfer, based on the requirements of ORS Chapter 540 and OAR 690-380-5000. Any person may file, jointly or severally, a protest or standing statement within 30 days after the last date of newspaper publication of this notice, MM/DD/YEAR. Call (503) 979-9931 to obtain additional information. If no protests are filed, the Department will issue a final order consistent with the preliminary determination. (Dec. 20, 27, 2023) TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE Reference is made to a certain trust deed (“Trust Deed”) made, executed and delivered by Angelina M. Jones and Sat’Desha A. Jones, wife and husband, as grantor, to Brad L. Williams, an Oregon attorney, as trustee, in favor of First Technology Federal Credit Union, as beneficiary, dated June 26, 2018, and recorded on June 29, 2018, as Recording No. 2018-007655, in the mortgage records of Polk County, Oregon. The Trust Deed covers the following described real property (“Property”) situated in said county and state, to-wit: LOT 335, DEER RIDGE ESTATES-PHASE 5, IN THE CITY OF SALEM, POLK COUNTY, OREGON. There are defaults by the grantor or other person owing an obligation, the performance of which is secured by the Trust Deed, with respect to provisions therein which authorize sale in the event of default of such provision; the defaults for which foreclosure is made is grantor’s failure to pay when due the following sums: (1) Arrearage in the sum of $11,361.94 as of October 1, 2023, plus additional payments, property expenditures, taxes, liens, assessments, insurance, late fees, attorney’s and trustee’s fees and costs, and interest due at the time of reinstatement or sale; and (2) Grantors’ failure to protect Lender’s security interest by their failure to keep the property free of liens and/or judgments. By reason of said defaults, the beneficiary has declared all sums owing on the obligations secured by said Trust Deed immediately due and payable, said sums being the following, to-wit: Payoff in the sum of

TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE TS No.: 118570-OR Loan No.: ***7748 Reference is made to that certain trust deed (the “Deed of Trust”) executed by ALYCE GRABOTIN AND OSWALD GRABOTIN, AS TENANTS BY THE ENTIRETY, as Grantor, to MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., AS DESIGNATED NOMINEE FOR AMERICAN ADVISORS GROUP, BENEFICIARY OF THE SECURITY INSTRUMENT, ITS SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS, as Trustee, in favor of FIRST AMERICAN TITLE INSURANCE COMPANY, as Beneficiary, dated 4/27/2022, recorded 5/9/2022, as Instrument No. 2022-005650, in the Official Records of Polk County, Oregon, which covers the following described real property situated in Polk County, Oregon: LOT 3, BLOCK 11, HILL PARK ADDITION NO. 4, IN THE CITY OF INDEPENDENCE, POLK COUNTY, OREGON. (PLAT VOLUME 7, PAGE 2) APN: 207456 / 08428-CB-06600 Commonly known as: 347 S SPRUCE COURT INDEPENDENCE, OR 97351 The current beneficiary is: FINANCE OF AMERICA REVERSE LLC Both the beneficiary and the trustee have elected to sell the above-described real property to satisfy the obligations secured by the Deed of Trust and notice has been recorded pursuant to ORS 86.752(3). The default for which the foreclosure is made is due to the failure of the borrower to maintain the property as their principle residence.

TOTAL REQUIRED TO PAYOFF:

$113,923.78

By reason of the default, the beneficiary has declared all obligations secured by the Deed of Trust immediately due and payable, including: the principal sum of $99,996.53 together with interest thereon in the total amount of $10,679.05, plus all accrued late charges, and all trustee’s fees, foreclosure costs, and any sums advanced by the beneficiary pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Deed of Trust Whereof, notice hereby is given that the undersigned trustee, CLEAR RECON CORP, whose address is 111 SW Columbia Street #950, Portland, OR 97201, will on 4/2/2024, at the hour of 11:00 AM, standard time, as established by ORS 187.110, AT THE MAIN STREET ENTRANCE TO THE POLK COUNTY COURTHOUSE, 850 MAIN STREET, DALLAS, OR 97338, sell at public auction to the highest bidder in the form of cash equivalent (certified funds or cashier’s check) the interest in the above-described real property which the grantor had or had power to convey at the time it executed the Deed of Trust, together with any interest which the grantor or his successors in interest acquired after the execution of the Deed of Trust, to satisfy the foregoing obligations thereby secured and the costs and expenses of sale, including a reasonable charge by the trustee. Notice is further given that any person named in ORS 86.778 has the right to have the foreclosure proceeding dismissed and the Deed of Trust reinstated by payment to the beneficiary of the entire amount then due (other than the portion of principal that would not then be due had no default occurred), together with the costs, trustee’s and attorneys’ fees, and curing any other default complained of in the Notice of Default by tendering the performance required under the Deed of Trust at any time not later than five days before the date last set for sale. Without limiting the trustee’s disclaimer of representations or warranties, Oregon law requires the trustee to state in this notice that some residential property sold at a trustee’s sale may have been used in manufacturing methamphetamines, the chemical components of which are known to be toxic. Prospective purchasers of residential property should be aware of this potential danger before deciding to place a bid for this property at the trustee’s sale. In construing this notice, the masculine gender includes the feminine and the neuter, the singular includes plural, the word “grantor” includes any successor in interest to the grantor as well as any other persons owing an obligation, the performance of which is secured by the Deed of Trust, the words “trustee” and ‘beneficiary” include their respective successors in interest, if any. Dated: 11/17/2023 CLEAR RECON CORP 111 SW Columbia Street #950 Portland, OR 97201 Phone: 858-750-7777 866-931-0036 By: Name: Jessica Lopez Authorized Signatory of Trustee (Dec. 13, 20, 27, 2023, Jan. 3, 2024) $117,351.38 as of October 1, 2023, plus taxes, liens, assessments, property expenditures, insurance, accruing interest, late fees, attorney’s and trustee’s fees and costs incurred by beneficiary or its assigns. WHEREFORE, notice hereby is given that the undersigned trustee will on March 13, 2024, at the hour of 11:00 a.m., in accord with the standard of time established by ORS 187.110, at the following place: Northwest Front Entrance of the Polk County Courthouse, 850 Main Street, Dallas, Oregon, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash the interest in the above-described Property, which the grantor had or had power to convey at the time of the execution by grantor of the said Trust Deed, together with any interest which the grantor or grantor’s successors in interest acquired after the execution of the Trust Deed, to satisfy the obligations thereby secured and the costs and expenses of sale, including a reasonable charge by the trustee. Notice is further given that any person named in ORS 86.778 has the right, at any time prior to five days before the date last set for the sale, to have this foreclosure proceeding dismissed and the Trust Deed reinstated by payment to the beneficiary of the entire amount then due (other than such portion of the principal as would not then be due had no default occurred) and by curing any other default complained of herein that is capable of being cured by tendering the performance required under the obligation or Trust Deed, and in addition to paying said sum or tendering the performance necessary to cure the default, by paying all costs and expenses actually incurred in enforcing the obligation and Trust Deed, together with trustee’s and attorney’s fees not exceeding the amounts provided by said ORS 86.778. Without limiting the trustee’s disclaimer of representations or warranties, Oregon law requires the trustee to state in this notice that some residential property sold at a trustee’s sale may have been used in manufacturing me t h a mp h e t a mi n e s , t h e chemical components of which are known to be toxic. Prospective purchasers of residential property should be aware of this potential danger before deciding to place a bid for this property at the trustee’s sale. In construing this notice, the singular includes the plural, the word “grantor” includes any successor in interest to the grantor as well as any other person owing an obligation, the performance of which is secured by said Trust Deed, and the words “trustee” and “beneficiary” include their respective successors in interest, if any. The NOTICE TO RESIDENTIAL TENANTS, attached hereto as Exhibit A, is incorporated herein by reference. Exhibit A, NOTICE TO RESIDENTIAL TENANTS, is not published pursuant to ORS 86.774(2)(b). DATED: October 4, 2023. Michelle M. Bertolino, Successor Trustee Farleigh Wada Witt

121 SW Morrison, Suite 600 Portland, OR 97204 Phone: 503-228-6044; fax: 503-228-1741 (Dec. 20, 27, 2023, Jan. 3, 10, 2024) NOTICE OF SALE OF PERSONAL PROPERTY UNDER LANDLORD’S LIEN: Notice is hereby given that Highway 22 Storage pursuant to Chapter 87 of the Oregon Revised Statutes will foreclose a Landlords Lien on the property listed below, and subsequently hold a public auction online to pay accrued storage fees and other charges. The Auction will be held at Bid13.com and the auction will close January 5th, 2024 at 12:00 PM PST. Payment in full must be received by 5:00 PM PST, January 4th, 2024 to avoid auction. Kimberly Frey, unit J15 John Riley, unit J48 (Dec. 20, 27, 2023) AUCTION SALE at Affordable Storage 885 N. Main St. Independence, OR 97351 Thursday, January 18, 2024 at 1:00 pm. Units will be sold as a whole for CASH ONLY. Call (503)838-7777 for details. Arturo Avila, #630 Venessa Coronado, #305 Mark Gaffney, #656 Amanda Moore, #343 Steve Secord, #236 Jasmine Schwarz, #208 Daniel Zastoupil, #U16 (Dec. 27, 2023, Jan. 3, 2024) Monmouth Mini Storage (503)838-0803 555 Gwinn Street E, Monmouth, OR 97361 Units to be auctioned off verbally Jan. 6th 2024 10am All units sold as a whole. Allen Lahey unit 279 & A022 & 236. Paige BlodgettEckridge Unit 104. Kenia Gonzalez Alpha Chi Omega Unit 148. Rachel Kimball Unit 225 & 154. Sierra Tandyk Unit 157. Jose Camero Unit 197. Sage Martin Unit 259. Sadie Ryan Unit 308. Deanna Steele Unit 7. Phillip Kachell Unit 179. Angela Trinidad Unit 142 & 294

The location of the hearing is accessible to persons with disabilities. Please contact Jeremy Teal at 503-787-3631 if you will need any special accommodations to attend or participate in the meeting. (Dec. 27, 2023, Jan. 3, 2024) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF POLK Probate Department Case No. 23PB10128 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS In the Matter of the Estate of Janet Leigh Allenby NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Melanie Rose Lynch, has been appointed as the personal representative of the above estate. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present them to the undersigned personal representative at 12909 SW 68th Parkway, Suite 160, Portland, OR 97223, within (4) four months after the date of first publication of this notice, or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings may obtain additional information from the records of the Court, the personal representative, or the attorney for the personal representative. Dated and first published on December 27, 2023. Melanie Rose Lynch, Personal Representative c/o Launa Lawrence Helton, OSB No. 040692 Helton Law Office, LLC 12909 SW 68th Parkway, Suite 160 Portland, OR 97223 Tel (503) 303-0057 Fax (503) 719-8993 launa@helton-law.com Published: 12/27/23, 1/3/24, 1/10/24 (Dec. 27, 2023, Jan. 3, 10, 2024)

(Dec. 27, 2023, Jan. 3, 2024) Public Notice & Notice of Public Hearing The City of Falls City is undertaking a Wastewater Improvements Project funded with Community Development Block Grant funds and Department of Environmental Quality Grant funds. The funding of this project will entail a 5-year annual rate increase financing schedule. A public hearing will be held by the City Council at 6:00 p.m. on January 8, 2024, at the Falls City Community Center, 320 N. Main, Falls City, Oregon, 97344. This meeting can be attended via remote access, the link and phone number are on the City of Falls City website at https://www.fallscityoregon. gov/

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PUZZLE PAGE MOMENTS IN TIME • On Jan. 1, 2011, the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) debuted on television. The “Queen of All Media” had previously described her vision for the network as one that “inspires our viewers and makes them want to be who they are on their best day.” • On Jan. 2, 1919, locksmith and far-right politician Anton Drexler founded the German Workers’ Party, the forerunner of the Nazi Party, in Munich, Germany, from a group that met regularly to discuss political matters. Among other things, the party advocated for nationalism and extreme antisemitism. • On Jan. 3, 1521, Martin Luther was excommunicated from the Roman Catholic Church by Pope Leo X after he failed to recant 41 parts of his NinetyFive Theses, which started the Protestant Reformation. The pope had called the offending statements heretical, scandalous and offensive to pious ears, though he did not specify exactly which ones fell under that category. • On Jan. 4, 1957, the Hamilton Electric 500 watch made its public debut. It was the first timepiece to never need winding (though it did need frequent battery replacement) and came in “modern” asymmetrical designs to reflect its revolutionary technology. Production ended 12 years later with the advanced technology of quartz movements that rendered the “watch of the future” obsolete. • On Jan. 5, 1992, a landslide that occurred near San Francisco killed 33 people and caused the Golden Gate Bridge to close. Heavy rain in the amount of nearly half of the city’s average annual precipitation had previously fallen for a straight 36 hours • On Jan. 6, 2000, a severe flu outbreak in the United Kingdom caused National Health Service hospitals to be stretched to their limits, leaving many forced to cancel all non-emergency surgeries and facing intensive care bed shortages. The outbreak was blamed on a low rate of flu vaccinations. • On Jan. 7, 1927, the first transatlantic telephone service was established. A three-minute call between New York and London cost about $45, which would translate to roughly $550 today.

TRIVIA TEST By FIFI RODRIGUEZ

QUESTIONS 1. FOOD & DRINK: What is ciabatta? 2. TELEVISION: What is the name of the 1980s cop drama series starring actor William Shatner 3. HISTORY: In which year did the Gulf oil spill occur? 4. LITERATURE: Who wrote the classic holiday novella “The Cricket on the Hearth”? 5. INVENTIONS: Who invented penicillin? 6. GEOGRAPHY: Monaco is bordered on three sides by which European country? 7. U.S. STATES: Which state’s nickname is “The Land of Enchantment”? 8. MOVIES: What is the name of the police chief in the movie “Jaws”? 9. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: What does the J.D. stand for in a law degree? 10. MUSIC: Which singer had a breakout hit with “I Kissed a Girl”?

ANSWERS 1. An Italian bread. 2. “T.J. Hooker.” 3. 2010. 4. Charles Dickens. 5. Alexander Fleming. 6. France. 7. New Mexico. 8. Martin Brody. 9. Juris Doctor. 10. Katy Perry.

Polk County Itemizer-Observer • December 27, 2023

Puzzle answers on page B3

Polk County Itemizer-Observer • December 27, 2023

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Corps refilling Willamette River reservoirs after drawdowns meant to help migrating fish Officials say it’s too soon to determine whether opening the dams helped young Chinook salmon and steelhead journey to the Pacific Ocean By GRANT STRINGER Oregon Capital Chronicle

The Army Corps of Engineers is refilling two Willamette River basin reservoirs that the agency had temporarily drained to historic lows to help fish, but the drawdowns washed mud downstream, threatening drinking water sources. The deluge of sediment spurred a wave of accusations from Willamette Valley residents and some Republican officials that the corps polluted rivers and possibly killed fish by draining Green Peter and Lookout Point reservoirs so low – achieving the opposite of its intention to help young salmon move down river through the dams. However, the corps and conservationists expect the rivers to run clear again as the agency ends the drawdowns this month, as planned, and begins refilling the reservoirs to protect communities from winter floods. Corps officials say it’s too soon to say whether opening the dams and letting the reservoir water drain through achieved the mission of helping young Chinook salmon and steelhead journey to the Pacific Ocean. A federal judge in 2021 ordered the corps to experiment with drawdowns as part of recovery plans for endangered salmon. There is evidence that similar operations at Oregon dams boosted salmon populations. At Fall Creek Lake in Lane County, the corps has periodically emptied the reservoir since the 1960s to help fish move downriver, stepping that up to seasonally since 2011. In 2020, 800 natural-born spring Chinook returned to the dam, compared to about 240 in 2007, according to the agency’s data. “Where it’s been tried, it’s been shown to be extremely effective,” said Kathleen George, an environmental policy expert and member of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde tribal council. Other drawdowns produced promising results. Jeff Henon, a spokesperson for the corps’ Portland division, said more juvenile salmon survived their journey through Cougar Dam during a drawdown in 2012 and 2013. That’s because the low water level allowed fish to swim through outlets deep within the dam instead of a more dangerous route through hydropower turbines. Federal scientists have been recommending the drawdowns for 15 years.

“These measures have been shown to be effective,” said Margaret Townsend, a senior attorney at the Center for Biological Diversity. ‘Very successful’ The corps’ network of dams in the Willamette River basin protects communities from floods. Most of the dams also produce hydropower, though not much. According to the Bonneville Power Administration, eight dams in the Willamette system produced less than 4% of the total power produced by the federal government’s Columbia River hydro system in 2019. The drawdowns at Green Peter and Lookout Point mean that the dams won’t produce any power for months. The dams are barriers for migratory salmon that would otherwise swim high in the Cascades to spawn and for their offspring attempting to migrate to the ocean. The corps and wildlife managers have intervened, trapping adult salmon at the bases of dams and trucking them upriver to spawn. But in some cases, after they’re moved upriver of dams they become food for bull trout. When reservoir levels are normal, young fish navigate vast lakes that are filled with predators and then spill through the dam when the water level is high enough, or try to go through passages with turbines. Research from years of drawdowns at Fall Creek Lake suggests that more fish survive the journey when the reservoir is drained because they can pass through safer outlets in the dam that are otherwise too deep to access. A National Marine Fisheries Service study in 2014 found that 98% of juvenile salmon passed through the dam alive during a deep drawdown, compared to less than 80% when the water level was higher. The study also found that the drawdown flushed non-native, predatory fish including largemouth bass downriver, which made Fall Creek Lake safer for young Chinook salmon the following year.

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A drone captures Lookout Point Dam, 22 miles upstream of Eugene on the Willamette River on Nov. 29, 2023. “From a biological perspective, this fish passage operation has been very successful,” the corps wrote in 2012. Like the deluge of mud that flowed from Lookout Point and Green Peter reservoirs, the deep drawdown of Fall Creek Lake sent large amounts of mud down the Willamette River in 2010. The river quickly cleared up, and corps officials say the mud probably didn’t harm young salmon while helping restore the river’s ecology by washing sediment and organisms like plankton downriver. Operation mired in mud Willamette Valley residents have expressed doubt that the operations are benefitting fish because of the thick slurry of mud and old sediment that washed down the Santiam and Willamette rivers when the corps opened dam gates. The deluge sent water managers in Sweet Home, Lebanon and other communities scrambling to filter the sediment from their drinking water. The Capital Chronicle obtained complaints submitted to the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality that called for investigations of possible water quality violations. Residents asked state officials to intervene. “Thousands of fish have died. The river has never seen this much turbidity,” one complaint says.

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Thousands of kokanee salmon, a type of sockeye salmon that don’t migrate to the ocean, died at Green Peter Dam in October because of the drawdown. However, lower numbers of the fish typically die each year when reservoir levels drop. Green Peter Dam is in Republican Rep. Lori ChavezDeRemer’s 5th Congressional District. The Salem Statesman-Journal reported that Chavez-DeRemer asked U.S. District Judge Marco A. Hernandez for a “better alternative at Green Peter dam to improve fish passage.” “While I am supportive of efforts to improve salmon and steelhead recovery, this court injunction is causing more harm than good,” she wrote. Beth Quillian, a spokesperson for the Oregon Department of Fish and

Wildlife, said in early December the agency hadn’t received any reports of fish kills since the kokanee die-off.

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She said the agency supports the drawdowns and that Chinook and steelhead need to pass through the dams.