PIO79

4th kicks off with community pancake feed

By DAVID HAYES I-O Editor

Armed with a radio and cell phone, Allison Wells was running ragged behind the scenes of the Polk County Fire District’s annual Pancake Feed. This is just the second year the engineer/EMT for the fire district has been in charge. But she has attended the community event long before joining the force.

“I have been coming to this since I was born,” Wells said. “I’ve never missed a year. So, it’s pretty cool to now be planning and organizing it. I love seeing the community. All the people I used to see as a little kid, watching them now coming back is pretty cool.”

The pancake feed has been going since at least 1972, started by the Volunteer Firefighters Association as a fundraiser.

Last year, the pancake breakfast fed over 1 100 people, minus kids under age 6, Wells explained, who are not counted because they don’t eat as much as an adult.

The feed also brought in about $10 000 that goes into funding the Fire District’s community projects, Christmas projects and toward families in need. The remainder goes into funding the next pancake feed.

Even while running around, making sure the small army of volunteers, both staff and civilians, were getting what they needed to serve the masses, Wells took time to eyeball how well it was going a couple hours into the service.

“I would say, it was a slow start. But the line soon wrapped the building, making it pretty busy,” Wells said.

DAVID HAYES

BY

(Top) Lt. Matt Connery volunteers behind the flapjack grill, passing them off to Christi Emerling and Jackson, 4, to bring to the serving line during Polk County Fire District No 1’s annual pancake feed July 4. (Bottom) A row of youths, sporting souvenir helmets, dig into their pancakes during the annual feed July 4.

Magnificent Ink offers custom tattoos now in Independence

By DAVID HAYES I-O Editor

Lanea Apple, 32, opened her second location on C Street in Independence on July 3, three years after opening her first in Depoe Bay.

She has been tattooing for 17 years.

“It has been my passion since I was little, about second grade. I’ve drawn my whole life. It was in second grade when I realized I could do this as a job.

After that realization, Apple took every apprenticeship she could, once she was of legal age to wield a tattoo pen. She went to tattoo school in Portland and soon was certified to open her own business.

Apple’s own first tattoo was a little cliche - a heart on her thigh.

These days, her back is covered in a leopard print that is still ongoing.

“I’ve been working on that one since I was 18,” she said. “I just wanted to be covered. And I’m a Leo, too.” Apple doesn’t specialize in a particular school of tattooing; rather, she offers all custom work.

“It’s whatever you want done. I just let people know if it’s not my

forte, but I do almost everything,” Apple said.

Apple is also a single mom who homeschools her kids. Having a tattoo shop in the town where she now lives was the right combination for this stage of her family life.

“I moved here for more opportunities, more homeschooling stuff, more community stuff. I just love

this community and how everyone supports each other,” she said.

She thought this was a great sport to open a second location because the one in Depoe Bay is a tiny, private studio.

“This is where I wanted to open a full, tattoo shop,” she added.

The location on C Street, a former dog grooming salon, proved to be

the perfect space to open that shop and grow with more contributing artists as her business grows.

“I love it. I absolutely love it. It was everything I wanted to hopefully get more artists in here so we can get it booming,” Apple said.

So far, Apple has one employee, Hanna Martin, who also offers custom tattoos.

Apple said what she loves about tattooing is each and every one she gives is creative and unique.

“That’s what’s really fun about this job. I don’t ever do the same one, ever,” Apple said. When “newbies” seek out their first tattoo, Apple has some simple advice.

“Make sure you like the environment, that you feel you can trust your artist, feel safe. And the artist is listening to you,” Apple said. “I tell people just go somewhere else if you’re not getting the full treatment you deserve.” She said the popularity in tattoos have regained momentum after a lull due to the pandemic. State regulations during the lockdowns created

Cairns, interprtive signs celebrated at wetland ceremony

By LANCE MASTERSON For The Itemizer-Observer

Community members came together to honor the late Michael Cairns and his legacy, the wetland restoration project at North Riverside Park in Independence. Ribbon cuttings formally unveiled two new interpretive panels at the wetland. The signs, located north and south of Deann Drive, will educate others about wetlands and their importance.

Last week’s ceremony featured speeches from Cairns’ family and from those who worked with him on the project, an undertaking that began some 15 years ago.

“Michael is a great example of what one person can do,” former Mayor of Independence John McArdle said during the ceremony. Cairns’ approach to the project was marked by cooperation and respect for others.

“Michael built strong relationships and found common ground to move work forward,” McArdle said, noting that Cairns never forgot that city leaders and staff “are people, too.”

Cairns was praised for his volunteer spirit, tireless effort and a commitment to seeing the project through from conception. Speakers emphasized restoration projects often rely on community partnerships.

“This is the kind of project that shows others what wetlands can be and why they matter,” said Gail Oberst, his widow.

Oberst grew up in the area and played in what were then undeveloped marshy fields. She remembers the area as a place of adventure and fond family memories.

“I love this place,” Oberst said. “And I’m so grateful Michael took it upon himself to help develop it into what it is today.”

Ray Fiori worked with Cairns when Fiori was with Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife and Luckiamute Watershed Council (LWC). Fiori provided historical context. He noted restoration of the two-plus acre site began in 2010 with help from the Army National Guard, which provided equipment and support to refigure parts of the wetland to enhance its natural flow, he added.

“The project focused on creating a sustainable, forested wetland that would thrive over the long term,” Fiori said.

Extensive planting of native trees, shrubs and wildflowers took place in 2010-11. Fiori estimated that 2 200 stems were planted per acre, with Cairns providing on-site monitoring of the work and coordinating with city crews to ensure proper maintenance.

Independence.

From Page A1

“Michael’s passion and follow-through made this project successful,” Fiori

said. “He wasn’t just someone who showed up. He stayed involved. He made sure things got done. He inspired others to care.” Today, the wetland provides critical habitat for amphibians, reptiles and

bird species. It also plays an important role in water management. It is a vital piece of the landscape, one that offers unique refuge and breeding grounds for wildlife.

Ribbon-cuttings officially unveiled two interpretive signs, which the Heritage Museum helped design and create. Mayor of Independence Kate Schwarzler cut the ribbons alongside Cairns’ children.

The LWC, city of Independence and others were recognized for their role in the partnership.

Photographic records of the site’s transformation over the years, compiled by Fiori and others, were on display.

Independence Days Talent Show biggest ever

This year’s Independence Days Talent Show featured 29 acts. Kids, teens and adults divisions featured dancers, singers, guitars and pianos, and one stand up comic in front of a crowd of about 2 000 people.

A 75-degree day made a great atmosphere to see the contestants give their best show for their piece of the $1 700 in prize money, sponsored by the Independence Hotel.

This year, talent show producer Vidal Pena secured celebrity judges. Former mayor John McArdle, Community Fiesta Queen Melani Betancourt’ and PNW rising star singer/songwriter

Molly Martinka kept score and a crowd applause meter measured the crowd engagement. After some amazing acts the winners were presented with their prizes and bragging rights. Winners were:

Kids division

1st - Marley Lockwood/Ballet

2nd - Shawn Riley /Singer

3rd - Grace & Claire Odle, Amaya /Dance

Teens

1st - Wilandre Bell-Sims/singer

2nd - Eve Riley/singer

3rd - Cloe Lockwood/ guitar-singer

Adult 1st - Lilian Mohr/singer-rapper

2nd - Isabel Toledo/singer

3rd - Briana and Austin Blanchfil/guitar-singer

Some of the contestants returned on July 4, along with champions from years past to fill a time slot that opened due to the nice weather.

“Originally, we booked the opening band in April, to start at 7 p.m., thinking it could be 100 degrees,” said Peña. “When we saw it was going to be a pleasant temperature, we were given the green light the Friday before to put the champions variety show

together. The result was seven acts featured singers, dancers and the band Beef Chicken. Be sure to keep an eye out for next year’s Independence Days Talent Show, it’s the 10th year and it will be great.”

You have the right to know what’s happening in your community.

Public notices – information local governments are obligated to provide citizens – are required to be published in local newspapers to provide a public record that’s accessible to everyone.

Public notices keep you informed about your government. But, Oregon legislators are trying to keep public notices from appearing in local newspapers. This severely impacts government transparency and, in turn, limits the public’s right to hold them accountable for their actions.

Let your state legislators know that you value being able to access notices in your newspaper and that they are worth the investment.

To learn more, visit www.energytrust.org/assessment

The pancake feed is by donation only, but diners are told each plate is estimated to cost $8 to serve up. The menu included, besides the pancakes, scrambled eggs, bacon, ham and drinks, a choice of coffee or juice.

About 20 local sponsors helped make the pancake feed possible. The coffee cups were from The Sippery, the oversized grill was donated last year by three area Les Schwabs, all the food, paper products and volunteer time.

Fire Chief Ben Stange said the pancake feed hasn’t always been that profitable.

“Allison and a couple other of our volunteers have tried to make this something that can actually generate some money that can be reinfused into those projects that they want to do,” Stange said.

But, he added, it’s still an important community event.

new opportunities for Apple and her clients.

“We were closed down for about a month, then we got right back to it. We were the only people that could have a personal relationship with people for a long time,” Apple said. “So, I actually started doing trauma therapy for people and counseling during that time. Now I offer it as a side to anyone getting a tattoo because people are in for other reasons. Often times it’s

confidence building, pain or grief or just memorable.”

After the ribbon cutting, Apple opened Magnificent Ink’s doors to a gathering of locals getting “flashes,” with pre-drawn tattoos they could choose from.

“It gives people a little more budget friendly spice of what is offered, giving people the opportunity to participate in it. Because we want to be able to give everybody a tattoo, no matter your budget,” Apple said.

Kim Queen drove out to Independence from Salem to get another flash tattoo, a simple star system pattern, on her arm. While lying on the table,

she gave her simple assessment of the new operation.

“It’s perfect,” Queen said.

Magnificent Ink 164 C St., Independence (503) 894-3109

Find examples of their work on Instagram or Facebook

Lanea Apple gives a tattoo to Kim Queen, of Salem, during Magnificent Ink’s grand opening July 3.

“Even during COVID we did it. We did a drive through, touchless service. So, we haven’t missed a year,” he said. Boy Scout Troops 7038 and Girl Scouts 9038 were among the volunteers keeping the supply lines moving, including restocking the syrup, butter and bussing tables.

Josh McIntyre, said the troop has been participating since he was a Cub master the last six years.

“It gets our presence out in the community,” he said.

“We’ve actually gained several Scouts doing this. They’ll see us doing this and say, ‘Hey, I want to do that.’ It shows people that we’re still around. And give these guys a sense of doing something worthwhile.”

He added the Fire District has been a charter organization for the local Scouts for more than eight decades. Stange and other senior staff, now back at the entrance greeting diners, wore

fire department themed shirts that would have put a souvenir Hawaiian shirt to shame. He agreed they were quite the style statement.

“One of our deputy chief’s wives got them for us and seemed really excited,”

Stange admitted. “She got them out. I kind of groaned. But looked into everyone else’s eyes and they were excited. Oh, okay. We’re doing that.”

But he admitted it was a small hit to his dignity in the overall scheme of being a growing part of a big, community event on the 4th of July.

“This community event is full of people with kids now who went to high school and moved away from town, but come back for the 4th,” Stange said. “So, you see all these people who only see each other once a year coming back home. That’s a large part of the experience for a lot of people.”

Shirlee Jean (Wilcox) Flug

Aug. 15, 1938.- June 24, 2025

Shirlee Jean (Wilcox) Flug passed away peacefully on June 24 2025 in Vancouver, Washington, after a five-year journey with dementia. Shirlee will be missed for her bigger than life personality, sense of humor, spirit of adventure and booming laugh.

Shirlee was born in Canton, Ohio, in 1938, the daughter of Clarence and Mary (Hein) Wilcox.

During the summer of 1944 Shirlee moved to Salem, Oregon, with her parents and settled into a house that is now part of the State Capitol Mall. Shirlee shared many stories of adventures she had playing in Mill Creek and surrounding areas.

Shirlee attended Garfield Elementary School, Parrish Junior High and was in the second class to graduate from North Salem High after the split of Salem High into North and South.

As a youth, Shirlee was an avid swimmer. She swam competitively for the YMCA swim team and also participated in their synchronized swimming program. Shirlee worked as a lifeguard for the YMCA and taught swimming lessons there also. This may be where Shirlee first developed her passion for teaching.

Following graduation from high school, Shirlee attended OCE, now Western Oregon University to pursue a degree in elementary education. While attending OCE, Shirlee continued her swimming career by swimming for the college team on a partial scholarship. Shirlee graduated with a BS in elementary education in the spring of 1960 Shirlee pursued her teaching vocation in Sweet Home, Oregon, at Long Street Elementary, Salem, Oregon, at Englewood Elementary, Independence, Oregon, at Independence Elementary, Monmouth, Oregon, at Monmouth Elementary and Talmadge Middle School for a total of 35 years in classroom education. Even after retirement, Shirlee continued to

teach. She offered to teach adult swim lessons for any adult she came into contact with those who wanted to learn to swim.

Shirlee loved camping, fishing, playing tennis and reading. Unfortunately, cooking and gardening failed to make that list. Shirlee spent many happy summers at the Eugene Yacht club on Fern Ridge Reservoir water skiing, sailing and enjoying the company of family and friends. Shirlee was a “snowbird” and enjoyed spending the winters at Venture Out Adult Community in Mesa, Arizona, playing tennis, bocce ball, swimming and hanging out with her “winter” friends.

Shirlee loved her three grandsons to whom she was “Nana”. She loved spending time with them. She taught them how to play cribbage, and they taught her how to play Cards Against Humanity. She will be fondly remembered by many of the boy’s friends as “Nana Shirl”.

Shirlee was proceeded in death by her husband, Jerry Flug. Shirlee is survived by son, Jack Flug and his partner Jeff Broderick, her daughter Marcie Colahan and her husband Tim, along with her three grandchildren Conor (Lily), Carraig (Mattea), Kieran Colahan, and two great grandchildren.

A memorial celebration to celebrate the lives of both Jerry Flug and Shirlee (Wilcox) Flug is being planned for this fall. More information will be forthcoming.

Bollman’s Tribute Center is caring for the family.

Laverne Wayne Ratzlaff

Feb. 27, 1942 - June 25, 2025

Laverne Wayne Ratzlaff (Vern) of Monmouth, Oregon, died on June 25, 2025. He was born on Feb. 27 1942 to Henrey H. Ratzlaff and Annie Mae (Lutke) Ratzlaff in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. He graduated from Dallas Oregon High School in 1960, attended Briercrest Bible Institute for two years, then attended Oregon State

University, graduating with a B.S. degree in Agricultural Education.

He married Mary Jean (Wiens) Ratzlaff on June 22,1963 in Lustre, Montana. His interest and goal was to become a farmer, which he did for 62 years raising a variety of crops and animals. In their life together they raised four children, enjoyed fishing trips to different Oregon Lakes, traveled to Chili on a mission trip, also to Israel and Germany.

Vern was preceded in death by brothers, Orval, Harvey and Irvin and his sister, Gladys Friesen, grandson, Brett Norman and granddaughter Miranda Bickerdyke.

Survivors include Penny (Bob) Norman, Sandra (Bob) McBeth, Scott Ratzlaff, and Steven (Amy) Ratzlaff,15 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.

Memorial services will be announced at a later date. Contributions can be made to Dallas Week-day School of the Bible. Bollman’s Tribute Center is caring for the family.

Robert Baker

Feb. 26, 1945 – June 27, 2025

Robert James Baker, 80, passed away on June 27 2025. Robert is preceded by his wife Marsha Baker, his parents Robert and Rose Baker, and his daughter Rose Marie Baker.

Robert was born Feb. 26 1945, in Salem to Robert and Rose Baker. He graduated from Central High School in 1964 and was part of the Central Panthers Football Championship team in 1962

Robert married the love of his life Marsha on July 16, 1973. Robert is survived by his three sons Wyatt Baker (wife Bee Baker), Chris Baker (wife Melissa Baker), Mike Baker (wife Jennifer Baker) and his brothers John Baker and Michael Baker as well as his sister Mary Jo Baker. He is also survived by his estranged daughter Elisabeth Brents Farran. Robert also had nine grandchildren

and five great grandchildren who he loved very much.

Robert worked at Mt. Fir Lumber for 26 years until it shut down, then he retired. He volunteered his time improving kids’ lives by taking them fishing and hunting, which he loved to do.

“Buggz”, as his family and friends called him, was a member of various clubs in the community. He was loved by everyone who knew him and will be missed by everyone.

A viewing will be held at Farnstrom Mortuary in Independence on Thursday July 10, 2025, from 5-9 p.m. On Friday, July 11 2025 family and friends will meet at Farnstrom at 8:15 a.m. and a procession will start at 8:30 a.m. to Fir Crest Cemetery in Monmouth for graveside services.

A potluck gathering will be at E.E. Wilson Wildlife Refuge at 12 p.m.

There will be signs along the road to guide everyone where the gathering will be held.

Sharon Evelyn (Plemmons) Classen

April 14, 1943 - June 30, 2025

Sharon Classen, longtime resident of the Dallas area, peacefully passed into eternity on Monday, June 30. At her side were her husband of nearly 64 years, Howard, and their children, Jeff, Cindy and Jim.

Born in McMinnville, Oregon, to Wayne and Lorraine Plemmons, Sharon’s early years were spent in Willamina and Sheridan. At 16, she met the love of her life, Howard Classen, while visiting Salt Creek Baptist Church. Sharon joined the church in 1960 and remained a lifelong member. After she was an honors graduate from Sheridan High School in 1961, the two eloped and were married by the Reverend Clarence Walth at the church parsonage on Aug. 25 1961 Sharon worked for the Oregon Department of Revenue until they were able to begin her life’s greatest joy, raising their family at Salt Creek; Jeff (1963), Cindy (1967) and Jim (1969). She combined home and work by following their

children to the Dallas School District in 1974. Sharon was an instructional assistant at Lyle Elementary, Academy, LaCreole Junior High and became Career Center Coordinator at Dallas High School. She capped her career in education by earning her own advanced degrees; AA from Chemeketa, BA from Western Baptist College and MEd from University of Portland. She transferred to South Salem High School, which led her to run the Teen Parent Program at Barbara Roberts School and Chemeketa, before retiring to more closely assist her own aging parents.

She became an exceptional cook, baker and seamstress, improving methods and sharing with others. Knitting, crocheting, tatting, painting, camping, gardening, backpacking, fishing; attending any family sporting events, concerts, performances, family trips near and far; Sharon invested all her efforts toward her growing family, church and community.

Sharon was preceded in death by her grandparents, Raymond and Lula Lawson; in-laws, Henry and Anne Classen; and parents, Wayne and Lorraine (Lawson) Plemmons.

She is survived by her devoted husband Howard; children Jeff and Heidi, Cindy and Marty, Jim and Tami and their families; eight grandchildren; four great grandchildren and two on the way. Sharon is also survived by her brother Kenneth, sister Linda and their families.

Over the past 12 ½ years, Sharon fought a valiant battle against multiple myeloma with a focus on making the most of each day God gave her and her family together, and hoping to make the way better for future myeloma patients. Given this, her family wishes to publicly extend thanks to her exceptional caregivers at Oregon Oncology and Salem Hospital, especially Dr. William Pierce and staff; Oregon Health Sciences University, Dallas Retirement Village and Solterra Hospice.

Because Sharon strongly believed in sharing the love of God with her own and other children from an early age, the family has chosen to have Camp Tapawingo designated to receive donations in her name. It continues to be a Place of Joy for generations of our family.

Sharon’s Celebration of Life will be held at Salt Creek Baptist Church on Thursday, July 10 2025 at 11 a.m.

Bollman’s Tribute Center is caring for the family.

Apple Box Children’s Theater produces free plays at WOU

Apple Box Children’s Theater presents “The Magic Flute,” a (non-singing) adaptation of the Mozart Opera by Steven Foggell. The performances are free, July 10-12 at 6 p.m., at the outdoor stage next to Leonard W. Rice Auditorium, at 344 Knox St N., in Monmouth.

“The Magic Flute” is an opera about Prince Tamino, who, aided by a magic flute and the bird-catcher Papageno, embarks on a quest to rescue Pamina, daughter of the Queen of the Night, from the priest Sarastro. There are many silly plot

twists and turns as the story unfolds.

This comic story has monsters, dragons, talking rats, and quests.

Apple Box Children’s Theater, which originally was active in the 1970s and 1980s, has been a staple in the community in this form for over ten years. Run entirely by volunteers and supported by grants, Apple Box provides arts opportunities to children who might not otherwise have access to them.

This year, Apple Box has hired Central High School’s new theater director, Ally Warner, to direct. She

Some people prefer traditional funeral

Others prefer cremation. Some want an elaborate ceremony. Then there are others who don’t want any ceremony at all. When it comes to funerals, there are as many options as there are people. And we take pride in being able to say

has directed many shows, including CHS’s “The Lightning Thief.” Apple Box also employs two Western Oregon University students, Serio Palomar Solis and Grace Pedersen, to direct the show and oversee the high school students who are working backstage for the show. High school students are getting college credit for participating.

Part of Apple Box’s mission is to teach all parts of theater, so the younger students learn from the older ones, many of whom are alumni of Apple Box.

“I’ve been in and watching Apple Box for many years. It’s an amazing experience, pretending to be someone, dressing up, and making new friends,” said Blake, a young actor in Apple Box. “It inspires my everyday life, and everyone is really supportive. It’s been an amazing program that I hope continues for long after I leave, and gives kids the chance to be an actor and have fun.”

ASL translated services will be available for the July 11 performance. Audience members should bring a lawn chair or blanket.

The Magic Flute performance is made possible in part by funding from the Polk County Cultural Coalition, fiscal sponsorship of the Humanities Division of Western Oregon University, and support from Central High School, the Western Oregon University Theatre Department, and local businesses. For more information about Apple Box Children’s Theater, including how to get involved or make a donation, go to www.appleboxtheatre.org/ home.

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OPINION

Letters to the Editor

Protests are directed toward Trump’s actions

In the July 2 Itemizer, a woman wrote a letter concerning the demonstrators in Dallas. We are not protesting because we hate Trump, although many do. Personally I don’t care about him one way or another.

What we do hate is what he is doing to our country. He has managed to co-opt our Congress, destroy our justice system, and often ignores court orders, thereby setting himself above the law. He talks about law and order, but only laws that he decides will help him gain more power. He is hurting people and totally ignoring the Constitution.

We are not out there because we hate Trump. We are fighting for our democracy and our country. The protesters are not full of hate but we have little recourse. This is all we can do to support our democracy and our Constitution. Many people have given their lives for the things we are fighting for, and I might add we are peaceful. What we are doing does no harm, unlike Trump.

As to your suggestion about how to spend our time, I am a

delivery person for Meals on Wheels, I spend two days a week with people with special needs, one of whom I am guardian for, and every Friday I buy lunch for a stranger. I am curious though. What do you do to help others? I agree with you about being hateful. I think that most of the protesters are there out of love for the country. See you Saturday.

Brad Washburn Dallas

Protesting is the least to do for the country

Regarding the protesters in Dallas who gather on the corner of Ellendale and Main every Saturday at noon. If you would talk to us, you might be surprised at how many of us volunteer in many ways to benefit our fellow citizens, but we are concerned for our country and what is happening. Protesting one hour a week seems to be the least we can do.

Come join us.

Linda Dawson Dallas

A Word Please

By JUNE CASAGRANDE

Faulty parallels come up in my editing work all the time, but I have yet to see a better example than a line from the movie “Rain Man.” In the 1988 film, Raymond, an autistic savant played by Dustin Hoffman, keeps a “serious injury list” of offenses committed by his brother Charlie, played by Tom Cruise. Among them is the time that Charlie, according to Raymond, “yelled and pulled and hurt my neck.”

Anyone can tell there’s something off about that sentence, but pinpointing the problem is a little tougher. To get at what’s wrong, you need to focus on something we usually take for granted: parallel sentence structure.

Here’s the idea: When we say something like, “I went to the store, the gas station and Mary’s house,” what you’re really saying is “I went to the store” and “I went to the gas station” and “I went to Mary’s house.” But you don’t have to repeat the first three words of every sentence because the stuff that follows can share a single instance of “I went to.” The catch is that all the items have to connect to “I went to” in the same way. That’s called parallel structure.

Imagine, though, that we said, “I went to the store, the gas station and go to Mary’s house.” This is a faulty parallel because “I went to” doesn’t connect with “go to Mary’s house.” It says “I went to go to,” which is illogical.

Parallels can take different forms, all of which can break down into faulty structures. For example, the problem with the “Rain Man” sentence is not that the subject doesn’t attach

correctly to the multiple verbs that follow. That is, it’s fine to say “Charlie yelled” and “Charlie pulled” and “Charlie hurt” — all those work.

Instead, the breakdown happens at the end of the sentence when we realize “my neck” applies not just to the last verb, “hurt,” but also to the middle verb, “pulled,” and that it should therefore apply equally to the first verb, “yelled.” Had Raymond said, “Charlie pulled and hurt my neck,” it would be clear that “my neck” is to be shared by both verbs. And he could keep adding verbs, as long as they also had “my neck” as an object. He “pulled, hurt, tickled and tattooed my neck.” But throw in a verb that doesn’t do anything to his neck, like “yelled,” and you imply an illogical statement: Charlie yelled my neck.

Interestingly, this happens only when three or more items are made parallel. Two items, like “Charlie yelled and hurt my neck,” would be fine.

The faulty parallels I see in my editing work are usually more subtle and often harmless.

Here’s an example: “Stretch your legs, your soul and embrace the simple joys.”

Technically, that’s saying “Stretch your legs.” “Stretch your soul.” And “Stretch embrace the simple joys.”

All the parallel items should be nouns you can stretch. “Embrace” isn’t even a noun here.

Most of the time, faulty parallels happen because a writer lost track of what the word “and” is doing in a sentence.

“Our daughter is exploring a number of college majors including English, history,

How you can be an effective leader

By STAN POPOVICH

Professionals

in leadership roles should take the time to improve their relevant skills and adjust their style to suit the needs of their teams. Here are the qualities of a good leader:

1. Know yourself: Leaders understand themselves and what they offer to the organization. Each leader has a distinctive style, and each leader recognizes that they may need to make changes in a way that reflects their style. Learning how to take and seek feedback from others is essential for developing as a leader.

2. Communicate on a regular basis: Start any discussion with what’s most important at hand, making sure that others understand the context of the conversation so that they can follow up with any questions. Communicate upfront about what you expect from your team. It is important that everyone is on the same wavelength.

economics and plans to try out for the soccer team.”

That sentence needs another “and” inserted before “economics” because, as we all instinctively know, lists of three or more items use “and” before the last item. “Red, white and blue.” “Red, white, blue and green.” “Red, white, blue, green and gray.” The “and” indicates that last one. In the “our daughter” sentence, the last major being considered is economics, so it needs an “and” before it. It’s fine to tack on another clause with “and,” like “and plans to try out.” But unless you make clear that “economics” is the last of the majors being considered, you suggest the sentence “Our daughter is exploring college majors including plans to join the soccer team.” Usually, all it takes to avoid faulty parallels like these is a little care and attention.

— June Casagrande is the author of “The Joy of Syntax: A Simple Guide to All the Grammar You Know You Should Know.” She can be reached at JuneTCN@aol.com.

3. Learn to listen: Active listening helps build rapport and create stronger relationships. Be focused on what others are saying. Criticism doesn’t have to be negative and, when handled appropriately, it can have a positive impact on professional growth.

4. Be decisive: Every situation has potential solutions, and when it comes time to make a final decision, you should be confident in your ability to guide the team toward the proper outcome. Effective leaders do not hesitate when it comes time to act or make these impactful decisions.

5. Put people first: By taking the time to know your team and understand their individual work styles, goals, and personalities, you will develop better strategies for management and create an environment in which your team feels heard, respected, and cared for. Recognize everyone’s contributions and accomplishments and look for

opportunities that can help your employees.

6. Set goals: Setting goals is crucial because they provide a clear direction for your team, fosters motivation, and accountability. Goals also enable you to measure progress, adapt to changing circumstances, and ultimately drive the organization towards achieving its vision.

7. Know when to delegate: As an effective leader, it’s important to know when to delegate tasks, and when to complete them yourself. Assigning responsibilities in this way will allow you to decrease your workload, which helps you focus on the most crucial tasks you need to complete.

8. Stay on top of things: Do what you can today. You never know when something may come up that might need your immediate attention. Being efficient can prevent future business problems.

9. Adapt to change: The ability to adapt is crucial for effective leadership. Practical

implementation involves actively seeking out changes in the industry, technology, or market trends and adjusting strategies and processes. As a leader, you should encourage a culture of resilience within your team by embracing change as an opportunity for growth.

10. Track your progress: Learn from your past mistakes. Reflecting on your past experiences can reveal knowledge that can be applied to your position as a leader. Every mistake can be turned into a learning opportunity if you take the time to find the lesson. Understanding how something went wrong will better equip you for handling similar situations in the future.

Stan is the author of “A Layman’s Guide to Managing Fear” which covers a variety of techniques that can drastically improve your mental health. For more information, please visit Stan’s website at http://www.managingfear.com.

FROM KING FEATURES WEEKLY SERVICE, 300 W. 57th STREET, 15th FLOOR, NEW

YORK, NY 10019

CUSTOMER SERVICE: (800) 708-7311 EXT.

257

MOMENTS IN TIME #12345_20250707 FOR RELEASE JULY 7, 2025

• On July 21, 365, a powerful earthquake off the coast of Greece caused a tsunami that devastated the city of Alexandria, Egypt. While no measuring tools for it existed at the time, modern scientists estimate that it consisted of two successive tremors, the largest of which is thought to have had a magnitude of 8.0.

• On July 22, 2003, Qusay and Uday Hussein, sons of Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein, were killed in Mosul, northern Iraq, after a three-hour firefight with U.S. forces. Both men were believed by many to be even more ruthless than their father, and news of their deaths was met with widespread celebration.

• On July 23, 2021, the Cleveland Indians baseball team announced its name change to the Cleveland Guardians, as a gesture of respect to Native Americans. The team had retired its “Chief Wahoo” logo three years earlier, banning it from future National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum plaques and merchandise sold outside of Ohio.

• On July 24, 1901, William Sydney Porter, better known to literature fans as O. Henry, was released from prison after serving a three-year jail term for embezzling from an Austin, Texas bank. He had previously hidden from authorities in Honduras but returned to America when his wife was diagnosed with a terminal illness, and supported his young daughter from prison by writing stories.

• On July 25, 1953, New York City issued its first subway tokens, which were used for 50 years before being replaced by the MetroCard.

• On July 26, 1972, singer Johnny Cash met with President Richard Nixon to lobby for prison reform. Cash was never an inmate himself, though he did spend a few nights in jail for minor offenses, but often performed at prisons.

• On July 27, 1794, Maximilien Robespierre was overthrown and arrested. As the leading member of the Committee of Public Safety from 1793, he had encouraged the execution, primarily by guillotine, of more than 17,000 enemies of the French Revolution. The day after his arrest, Robespierre and 21 of his followers met their own fate at the guillotine in front of a cheering mob at the Place de la Revolution in Paris. © 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.

CUSTOMER SERVICE: 800-708-7311 EXT. 257

TRIVIA TEST #12345_20250707 FOR RELEASE JULY 7, 2025 By

Fifi Rodriguez

2025 King Features Synd., Inc. FROM KING FEATURES WEEKLY SERVICE, 300 W. 57th Street, 41st Floor, New York, NY 10019

1. ANIMAL KINGDOM: What is a female goat called? 2. TELEVISION: What is the name of the town in “Gilmore Girls”?

3. GEOGRAPHY: How many states does the Appalachian Trail cross?

4. MOVIES: Which actress voices the character Jessie in “Toy Story 2”?

5. U.S. PRESIDENTS: What is believed to have caused President Zachary Taylor’s death?

6. ANATOMY: What is the most abundant protein in the human body? 7. GEOMETRY: How many sides does a hexagon have? 8. LITERATURE: Serial killer Hannibal Lecter first appears in which novel? 9. ASTRONOMY: What are planets outside our solar system called? 10. MUSIC: Who was the first women inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame?

1. A doe or nanny.

Stars Hollow.

14.

Joan Cusack.

Acute gastroenteritis.

Collagen.

Six.

“Red Dragon” by Thomas Harris.

Aretha Franklin.

Editor’s Note: Polk County Health Department conducts a bi-annual, unannounced inspection of licensed restaurants. The establishments receive an overall grade on food temperatures, food preparation practices, worker hygiene, dish washing and sanitizing and equipment and facility cleanliness.

The restaurants are scored on a 100-point scale. They receive a 5-point deduction for priority violation and a 3-point deduction for priority foundation violations. Deductions are doubled if recorded on consecutive inspections. Restaurants are compliant if they receive a score of 70 or higher. They must be reinspected within 30 days if they receive a score below 70 or face closure or other administrative action. Restaurants display a placard by the entrance that indicates passing or failing their most recent inspection.

Nick’s Soul Food

180 Main St. E, Monmouth Inspection Date: May 29

Score: 95 - Potentially hazardous food is not maintained at proper hot or cold holding temperatures, specifically several items in the fridge are 47F (milk, butter, sausage).

The operator states the fridge has not been opened since last night. Several items are blocking the cooling panel in the back of the fridge, horseradish against cooling unit is 34F.

Sifu’s Wok & Roll

1233 Riverbend Road NW, West Salem Inspection Date: May 30

Score: 95

-Ready-to-eat food is not properly date-marked, specifically opened carton of half and half is not date marked.

The operator states it was opened three to four days ago.

-Temperature measuring devices are not provided or readily accessible for checking food temperatures, specifically

May Restaurant Inspections

probe thermometer not provided.

Oak Knoll Golf Club

6335 Highway 22, Independence

Inspection Date: May 29

Score: 100

Court Street

Neighborhood Grill

186 SW Court St., Dallas

Inspection Date: May 29

Score: 95 - Raw or ready-to eat food is not properly protected from cross contamination, specifically two packages of butter are under raw eggs in reach-in fridge.

Mama Gordita’s Kitchen

156 SE Mill St., Dallas

Inspection Date: May 28

Score: 92

-Potentially hazardous food is not maintained at proper hot or cold holding temperatures, specifically three squeeze bottles of potentially hazardous sauce (crema, mayo and chipotle sauce) are sitting out at room temp (71F). Container of grease with particles of meat is sitting out at 78F.

Operator states these have been out for an hour.

- Incorrect methods are used to cool potentially hazardous foods, specifically a large pot of rice with lid on is cooling for one hour, temp is 172F.

Gyropoulos 1233 Riverbend Road NW, West Salem

Inspection Date: May 27

Score: 97 - Temperature measuring devices are not provided or readily accessible for checking food temperatures, specifically thin tipped thermometer is not working.

Momiji Sushi Bar & Restaurant

1211 NW Edgewater St., West Salem

Inspection Date: May 27

Score: 97 - A test kit is not provided or is not accurate enough to measure the concentration of sanitizing

solutions, specifically chlorine test strips are not provided.

Elks Lodge

289 S Main St.,

Independence

Inspection Date: May 27

Score: 95 - Raw or ready-to eat food is not properly protected from cross contamination, specifically raw eggs are above chocolate cake in the basement reach-in fridge.

Kruncheeze

488 E Ellendale Ave., Dallas

Inspection Date: May 22

Score: 100

Masala Bites Indian

Restaurant

413 Main St., Dallas

Inspection Date: May 22

Score: 90

-Raw or ready-to eat food is not properly protected from cross contamination, specifically a bowl of raw fish is defrosting above ready-to eat foods in a glass reach in the fridge.

-A private home or an area used for living or sleeping quarters is used to conduct food establishment operations, specifically a bed with bedding and shelves holding clean diapers and bottles of medication is set up in the far back room. Freezers holding raw chicken are stored in the room, and curtains are used to separate it from the food preparation area.

Ring of Fire Frozen Treats

1124 Edgewater NW., West Salem

Inspection Date: May 22

Score: 97 - Ready-to-eat food is not properly datemarked, specifically opened gallon of milk and containers of whipped cream are not date marked. Operator states they were opened four days ago.

Eddy’s Phillys #1

1233 Riverbend Road NW, West Salem

Inspection Date: May 21

Score: 100

Carnitas Delicias

Michoacan

955 Main St., Dallas

Inspection Date: May 21

Score: 100

Tin Roof Bistro by Street Sweets

1233 Riverbend Road NW, West Salem

Inspection Date: May 21

Score: 97 - Ready-to-eat food is not properly datemarked, specifically container of pre-cooked sausage and cut pineapple in Atosa cold holding unit are not datemarked. Pre-cooked sausage is covered in blue mold.

Get Some Aloha, LLC

1233 Riverbend Road NW, West Salem

Inspection Date: May 21

Score: 92

-Food employees are not washing their hands as often as necessary specifically operator cracked a raw egg with gloves and then grabbed squirt bottles of sauce.

- A consumer advisory is not provided, is not presented in the correct format, or does not contain the required information, specifically fried egg is on the menu.

Spoon N Folks

184 SE Washington St., Dallas

Inspection Date: May 21

Score: 100

Greece Lightning Express

955 Main St., Dallas

Inspection Date: May 17

Score: 92

-Food-contact surfaces are not clean, specifically fry cutter contains an accumulation of dried on food debris.

-Potentially hazardous food is improperly reheated for hot holding, specifically cooked gyro meat is at 88F in a crock pot.

Luna’s Cafe 123 E Main St., Monmouth Inspection Date: May 16 Score: 92

-A handwashing sink is not accessible for employee use at all times, is used for purposes other than hand washing or is not operated properly, specifically handwashing sink has several clean paper towels set in the basin.

-Potentially hazardous food is not maintained at proper hot or cold holding temperatures, specifically container of butter sitting out is 66F. Operator states it has been out for 1 hour.

Sing Fay

198 W Main St., Monmouth Inspection Date: May 16

Score: 92

-A handwashing sink is not accessible for employee use at all times, is used for purposes other than hand washing or is not operated properly, specifically the handwashing sink at the bar has a pitcher sitting in the basin.

-Poisonous or toxic materials are not properly separated or located, specifically a box of cigarettes and lighter are stored on a shelf above the cutting board and prep surface.

Cherry City Wings 240 Monmouth St., Independence

Inspection Date: May 16

Score: 92

-A handwashing sink is not accessible for employee use at all times, is used for purposes other than hand washing or is not operated properly, specifically handwashing sink is being used to store dirty rags, sponges, sanitizer bucket and bottles of soap. Handwashing sink has no paper towels.

-Potentially hazardous food is not maintained at proper hot or cold holding temperatures, specifically bottles of ranch and thousand island sauces are stored with bottles of non-potentially hazardous sauces at room temperature (74F). Operator states they are supposed to be discarded today and have been out overnight.

Cindy Lou’s

272 Pacific Ave. S., Monmouth

Inspection Date: May 16 Score: 100

Cusinela Delicious Food 240 Monmouth St., Independence Inspection Date: May 16 Score: 100

Cafe 22 West 5172 Salem Dallas Highway, West Salem

Inspection Date: May 15 Score: 100

Golden Hop Saloon 133 C St., Independence Inspection Date: May 15 Score: 95 - Potentially hazardous food is not maintained at proper hot or cold holding temperatures, specifically three containers of butter are sitting out at room temperature (78F). Operator states they have been out for 1 5 hours.

Chipotle Mexican Grill 1060 Wallace Road NW, West Salem

Inspection Date: May 15 Score: 100

Painted Pony Coffee Co. 662 S 10th St., Independence Inspection Date: May 15 Score: 100

Lucky Dragon Restaurant 101 Polk St., Independence Inspection Date: May 15 Score: 95 - Potentially hazardous food is not maintained at proper hot or cold holding temperatures, specifically metal container of fresh cut garlic in oil is out at room temperature (74F). Operator states it was made 3 hours prior.

Love Love Teriyaki & Sushi 433 Main St., Dallas Inspection Date: May 14

HEALTH DIRECTORY

CHIROPRACTIC

• JOYNT FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC - Dr. Brian Joynt, DC - 629 Clay Street East, Monmouth, OR 97361  Family-oriented chiropractic clinic, dedicated to creating an unparalleled experience of service, quality and care by teaching the true principles of chiropractic. We look forward to empowering each of you to help your family participate more fully in life. New patients welcome. Accept most insurance. Auto/ personal injury and work comp. Massage therapist on site. Complimentary consultations. Call us today to make your appointment (503) 837-0550.

• THORNTON CHIROPRACTIC - Dr. Sharon and Marty Thornton - Palmer Graduates - We care, God cures. 1650 Monmouth St., Independence, OR 97351 503-838-3346. Office hours: Mon & Wed 8am-12pm & 2pm-6pm, Tues & Thursday 8:30am-12pm & 2pm-6pm, Fri 8am-noon.  Serving Polk county for 27 years. Offering Thompson Drop and other hands-on techniques, as well as Advanced Activator Methods and Functional Neurology. We provide gentle and effective full-spine and extremity adjusting for all ages in a loving and caring environment. We are accepting new patients for Family Wellness Care, Medicare, Auto or personal injury & Workers Comp. Licensed Massage Therapy available on site.

COUNSELING

• CROSS AND CROWN COUNSELING offers counseling services to individuals, couples, and families. We also offer workshops and seminars. Areas we support but are not limited to include children, adolescent, premarital, marriage, family, trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, anger, and divorce. We help our clients find healing and healthy responses to individual and family needs. We provide a safe and caring environment to face life situations, address interpersonal and intrapersonal conflict and help individuals realize their full potential. Our counselors are trained NCCA Licensed Clinical Christian Counselors, Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselors and Certified Temperament Counselors. We also have Domestic Violence and Trauma Resilience Protocol trained counselors. Our office is located at 177 SW Oak

St. Dallas, OR 97338. For more information please visit our website at www.crossandcrowncounseling.com or call (503) 917-1625.

GENERAL DENTISTRY

• WESTON K. MORRILL, DMD - 289 E. Ellendale Suite #201, Dallas. 503-623-6616. Family, preventive, and cosmetic dentistry. Complete dentistry for the entire family. Se habla español.

• KENNETH WINOKUR, DMD - 329 South Main Street Independence, OR 97351. 503-838-1633. High quality service with your comfort in mind. Nitrous oxide gas sedation available. www.independencedental. org

IMAGING SERVICES

• WEST VALLEY HOSPITAL  offers state-of-the-art, all-digital diagnostic imaging services. With your physician’s referral, we provide bone density tests, CT scans, fluoroscopy, mammography, ultrasound, X-ray and MRI services. Check out our comfortable and spacious mammography suite. Our imaging services are located at 525 SE Washington St., Dallas, 503-6237302. Learn more at salemhealth.org/westvalley.

LABORATORY SERVICES

• SALEM HEALTH HOSPITALS & CLINICS  provides lab services at three convenient locations in Dallas, Monmouth and Independence. Both fully accredited labs accept health care provider referrals for collections and testing. The labs also offer employment and selfreferral drug testing. Appointments are not required at either location. Learn more at salemhealth.org/lab. WEST VALLEY HOSPITAL  outpatient lab available weekdays 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., weekends 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., at 525 SE Washington St., Dallas, 503-814-5227

SALEM HEALTH MEDICAL CLINIC – MONMOUTH  is open Monday,Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 5 p.m., 512 Main St., Suite 300, 503-814-5227.

SALEM HEALTH MEDICAL CLINIC – INDEPENDENCE is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to noon and 1 to 5 p.m., 1430 Monmouth St., 503-917-2255.

PHYSICAL THERAPY/ REHABILITATION SERVICES

• WEST VALLEY HOSPITAL  offers a wide range of rehabilitation services. Physical, occupational and speech therapy services are located at 1050 SE Uglow Ave, Dallas, 503-917-2121.

• SALEM HEALTH MEDICAL CLINIC –MONMOUTH offers physical, occupational and speech therapy. Located at 512 Main St., 503-838-1388. Learn more at salemhealth.org/rehab.

PRIMARY CARE

• SALEM HEALTH MEDICAL CLINICS  are accepting new patients in Dallas, Monmouth and Independence. With a proactive health care approach, the clinics provide care for all ages. Services include annual exams, immunizations, lifestyle counseling. Learn more at salemhealth.org/primary-care.

Dallas — 1000 SE Uglow Ave., 503-623-8376

Independence — 1430 Monmouth St., 503-917-2255

Independence — Central Health and Wellness Center — 1601 Monmouth St., Suite 100, 503-838-0045 Monmouth — 512 Main St., Suite 300, 503-838-1182

URGENT CARE

• BESTMED URGENT CARE  provides treatments and services for time-sensitive injuries and illnesses. We have caring and knowledgeable providers to treat a variety of conditions such as fever & flu, sprains & strains, allergies & asthma, UTIs, and dehydration. Additional services include sports physicals, on-site lab & x-ray, sutures & stitches, and vaccinations. Walkins are welcome. Learn more online at bestmedclinics. com. The BestMed Urgent Care clinic is located at 186 West Ellendale Avenue in Dallas; 971-900-4984.

Independence Days delights

The Independence Days festival July 3-4 were filled with many events in Monmouth and Independence. Here’s a look at some of the images captured.

From Page A7

Score: 100

Northwest Senior and Disability Services 817 Church St., Dallas Inspection Date: May 14

Score: 95 - Potentially hazardous food is not maintained at proper hot or cold holding temperatures, specifically mashed potatoes hot holding in the oven are 124F.

Chase Bar & Grill

1083 Monmouth St., Independence Inspection Date: May 13

Score: 95 - Refrigerated, ready-to-eat, potentially hazardous food has not been

consumed within the required time period or is not properly date-marked, specifically container of bacon jam is date marked April 28 - over 7 days old.

Rich & Thick Bakery

154 S Main St., Independence Inspection Date: May 13 Score: 95 - Refrigerated, ready-to-eat, potentially hazardous food has not been consumed within the required time period or is not properly date-marked, specifically container of milk is opened and not dated. Container was opened on April 13

First Call Meals, LLC 154 S Main St., Independence Inspection Date: May 13

Score: 100

Arthur’s Icebox

154 S Main St., Independence Inspection Date: May 13 Score: 100

Mangiare Italian Restaurant

114 S Main St., Independence Inspection Date: May 13 Score: 100

Altita’s

189 Pacific Highway, Monmouth Inspection Date: May 13

Score: 95 - Raw or ready-to eat food is not properly protected from cross contamination, specifically a container of raw chicken is above ready to eat salsa and vegetables in reach-in.

Washington St. Catering Kitchen

125 SW Washington St., Dallas

Inspection Date: May 12

Score: 100

Dandy Burgers

888 SE Monmouth Cutoff Rd R Dallas

Inspection Date: May 12

Score: 92

-Hand towels or a hand drying device is not provided at the handwashing sink, specifically no paper towels provided at handwashing sink; the facility is out of paper towels.

-Raw or ready-to-eat food is not properly protected from cross contamination, specifically: personal container of

Soak up summer fun with quick care

Summer is all about carefree moments — but scrapes, stings and sudden sniffles happen when you least expect them. Whatever curveballs the season throws you, Salem Health is here help you recover quickly and get back to the fun.

At Salem Health’s medical clinics in Dallas, Monmouth and Independence, our teams treat minor injuries and illnesses with appointments that fit your schedule. Need serious help and can’t wait? The emergency room at West Valley Hospital is open 24/7.

From fevers to falls, Salem Health is here to keep your summer plans moving.

eggs is stored above sauce and cheese in white reach in.

Dutch Bros Coffee - Dallas

820 E Ellendale Ave., Dallas

Inspection Date: May 12

Score: 100

Marlene’s 904 Main St., Dallas

Inspection Date: May 9

Score: 95 - Poisonous or toxic materials are not properly separated or located, specifically one container of butane and one container of compressed air are stored on prep table with clean utensils and probe thermometers.

Westside Taphouse And Growler Fill

1594 Edgewater St. NW, Ste. 110. West Salem

Inspection Date: May 9

Score: 97 - A handwashing sink is not accessible for employee use at all times, is used for purposes other than hand washing or is not operated properly, specifically a bottle of glass cleanser is in the handwashing sink.

Hotdog Alexis 1635 SE Miller., Dallas Inspection Date: May 9

Score: 100

San Antonio 1311 Monmouth St., Independence Inspection Date: May 5

Score: 100

salemhealth.org/primary-care

It’s a trifecta for Bon Bon Vivant and their fans

Do-everything, genre-bending Bon Bon Vivant (BBV) is back in Monmouth for a third straight year.

Tonight’s concert is the first of eight scheduled for the Music in the Park series. The band’s performance begins at 6:30 p.m.. Admission is free, though donations are accepted.

BBV is from New Orleans and escapes their city’s summer heat and humidity by touring the Pacific Northwest.

“Summer is a good time to for New Orleans bands,” said singer-songwriter Abigail Cosio in an recent interview.

“The city slows down and the heat and humidity kicks up just as summer festival series are happening elsewhere, so

we started leaving a few years ago.”

Weeks on the road provide an artistic benefit, as new experiences influence their music.

“We enjoy traveling to new places, and seeing alternative ways of life has always impacted my songwriting,” Cosio added. “Tours provide us with a chance to play for new audiences and collect inspiration for new music.”

To rework an old saying: You can take the band out of New Orleans, but you can’t take New Orleans out of the band.

“Street bands, brass bands, jazz bands, food vendor songs, the calliope on the Steamboat Natchez, the bells, on the hour, from St. Louis

cathedral in Jackson Square, mule hoofs, bucket drummers, stride piano, the Meters, lil Wayne and Jelly Roll Morton, it’s all sort of in here,” said musician and vocalist Jason Jurzak, listing off BBV’s influences.

The Monmouth Business Association is the primary sponsor for Music in the Park.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Abigail Cosio and Bon Bon Vivant kick off the Music in the Park concert series tonight (Wednesday) at 6:30 p.m. at Main Street Park amphitheater in Monmouth.

River Divide brings fun, music to Monmouth

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Get ready to party, Monmouth. River Divide returns to the Main Street Park amphitheater July 16 at 6:30 p.m., playing their blend of classic rock and country, along with audience requests

River Divide, the high-energy Portland-based band, is back for Monmouth’s Music in the Park concert series.

The band takes to the Main Street Park amphitheater stage July 16, at 6:30 p.m.

River Divide promises a big stage show, stunning harmonies, and a setlist guaranteed to get attendees on their feet or tapping their toes.

So what kind of songs make it onto the River Divide setlist?

“Something that has a great dance groove and certainly one that everyone knows,” said drummer Rod Walker. “If it makes you want to get out of your seat and sing along, that’s a great party song.”

Songs fitting this description include “Take it Easy,” “Margaritaville,” Boot Scootin’ Boogie” and “Mustang Sally.”

Unusual for some cover bands, River Divide isn’t afraid to tinker with the classics.

“We cover hits by established artists. We try to stay true to the arrangement and style in which the songs were written,” said Walker. “That being said, any song we play is going to have River Divide flavor applied to it.”

Bassist Dale Mayuiers added that River Divide is talented enough to “perform nearly any song and, between members, we have played hundreds, if not thousands of different songs in just about every style of music.”

River Divide leans toward country. Though the band enjoys playing just about any song as long as it makes others happy. There must be complete buy-in before a song makes the playlist.

“The group is 100 percent democratic,” Mayuiers said, “so all members have veto power if they don’t feel the song is a good fit.” Band members want to have their fun, too. Which is why they keep things fresh.

“Playing the same song hundreds of times over in a single year can become tedious, so we often add little changes or improvisations,” said Mayuiers. “The audience seldom realizes this is happening. But the band members, who are intently listening to one another, catch nuance.”

The 2025 Music in the Park concert series is sponsored by Monmouth Business Association. Admission is free; donations are accepted.

Trio converge music tastes to perform bluegrass

By DAVID HAYES I-O Editor

Kicking off this year’s Dallas Sounds of Summer concert series is a trio of Western Oregon University graduates who are now committed full time to their new profession - performing bluegrass music.

The three members of Tuesday String band each developed a passion for music that led to an intersecting path at WOU - Ryan Hanson, from McMinnville, Gage Carter, from Quincy, Illinois, and Mason Akers, from Anchorage, Alaska. Akers said his plans diverged from originally wanting to be a school music teacher since he was in middle school. Carter actually got his first degree in kinesiology, and worked as a personal trainer and physical therapy technician before being bitten by the music bug again. And Hanson was pursuing his love of jazz and concert band, developing his skills in composition.

It was Carter who drew the other two into his passion for bluegrass. He at one point worked in a guitar building factory and became fascinated by a co-worker playing a mandolin on breaks.

“He could just shred on this thing. It was so different,”

While he played guitar and saxophone, years later he bought his own mandolin and an old fiddle book and fell in love with it.

“The melodies stuck in my head and I got obsessed,” Carter said.

While pursuing his first degree, Carter learned Oregon had a whole community dedicated to bluegrass.

“Through that, I found an actual path to a career in music performance within the music world,” he said.

“It’s a super warming, inclusive community.”

He first reached out to Akers, who was up for trying something new. His first tune to try was “Blackberry Blossom,” an old fiddle tune. They played it together and instantly connected.

“That led me to research bluegrass more, and I discovered Billy Strings… I had never heard an acoustic guitar played like that.” Hanson was then recruited on standup bass whenever another member was unavailable. He, too, was slowly drawn to bluegrass.

“The dark side taking over,” Hanson joked.

Carter explained blue grass’s appeal is that it was designed for dance.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Tuesday String Band, composed of Western Oregon University graduates (from left) Gage Carter, Ryan Hansen and Mason Akers, kick off the Dallas Sounds of Summer Concert Series July 10 at 7 p.m.

“Bill Monroe and others combined these traditions with the songwriting styles of black blues musicians and early country artists like Jimmie Rodgers and the Carter Family to create a unique kind of folk music,” Carter explained.

He added you can see the appeal of bluegrass by the age range in the audience.

“Kids love dancing to it. Little kids can’t help themselves. They hear the ‘boom chuck, boom chuck’ of the bass and mandolin and it makes them want to dance,” Carter said. “And the older folks who actually know how to dance a waltz and two step, have memories of music like that. Then the in between crowds that

are becoming more open to bluegrass music, becoming more accepted and less marginalized as ‘hillbilly music.’” Now that they’ve committed full time as bluegrass performers, they know they’ve made the right decision.

“For us, it’s satisfying as musicians, it’s been just fun to just actually perform. It could be called self indulgent. But in that self indulgence sometimes you create something that people find appealing,” Akers said.

Tuesday String Band performs at the Dallas Sounds of Summer July 10 at 7 p.m. at the Dallas Rotary Performing Arts Stage at Academy and Main streets.

PAGES OF THE PAST FLASHBACK

50 years ago

Wednesday, July 9

Pokey cost unchanged for ‘guests’ of Dallas

Inflation may be causing costs to go up nearly everywhere else, but the cost of going to jail apparently hasn’t increased all that much in the past year. Dallas councilmen adopted a solution Monday night authorizing the mayor and city manager to contract on behalf of Dallas, with Polk County to house prisoners in the county jail for the fiscal year. The contract with the county calls for the same payment for the use of the facility during the last fiscal period - $6 000

Falls City has old fashioned July 4

Good weather and good spirits prevailed in Falls City’s annual old fashioned fourth of July celebration again this year. The parade got a late start but was very

good and many townspeople participated.

The Liberty Road band composed of the families of the McCrystals, the Darlands and the Scherfs, made some fine old hillbilly music along the way in their pickup and won the Grand Champion Trophy.

Dallas Legion

snares Trail crown

Last Wednesday, the Dallas American Legion baseball team took a 12-hour drive up to Trail B.C. to participate in Trail’s annual 10-team tournament. The drive back must have seemed shorter than 12 hours because Dallas came away with all of the first-place hardware. They won all of their four contests and pitcher-infielder Kris Dunkel was named the tournament’s most valuable player.

40 Years Ago

Wednesday, July 10

School idea gets backing Community residents may get a chance to use the school facilities they help finance if a “community school” proposed by local residents takes shape this fall in the Dallas School District. The Dallas School Board unanimously approved the proposed concept at its

Monday night meeting at the district administration building.

The school board made no specific plans at the meeting about what the community school would offer, but afterwards Superintendent Gary Burton said its main purpose would be to “open up the schools to the community.”

Puzzle filled as road department head hired

The last piece of the puzzle Polk County officials hope will make county

government more effective was put into place last week with the hiring of Richard Dalke, an Albany private engineering consultant, as county road department director.

Duke becomes the third person hired in the last month to head a department. The other two were Ken Lambert as the new general services director, and Ralph Hanley as the budget and finance head.

TOWN CRIER

Community Calendar July 9- 16

Wednesday, July 9

7 a.m. - Library Board meeting, Monmouth Public Library, 168 Ecols St. S.

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

8:30 a.m. - Mayor of Independence Office Hours, stop by and share your thoughts, ideas, and questions, City Hall, 555 South Main St.

8:30 a.m. - Dallas Area Senior Center Board of Directors meeting

9 a.m. - Stretch Exercise, Monmouth Senior Community Center

10 a.m. - Tai Chi with John, Monmouth Senior Community Center

10 a.m. - 4-Handed Pinochle/Card/Table Games, Dallas Area Senior Center

10:30 a.m. - Little Bitty Storytime, Dallas Public Library, 950 Main St.

10:30 a.m. - Story Time with Miss Jo, Independence Library, 175 Monmouth St.

11 a.m. - Mah-Jongg, Dallas Area Senior Center

11 a.m. - Lunch with Meals on Wheels, Monmouth Senior Community Center

12 p.m. - Watch Repair & Knife Sharpening, Monmouth Senior Community Center

1 p.m. - Ten Minute Writing, Monmouth Senior Community Center

1 p.m. - Birthday celebration, Dallas Area Senior Center

2 p.m. - Dallas Historic Preservation Commission meeting, City Hall, 187 SE Court St.

3 p.m. - Amazing Bubble Man at the Independence Public Library, 175 Monmouth St.

4 p.m. - Connecting

Loose Threads for Charity, Monmouth Senior Community Center

5:30 p.m. - Municipal Court Arraignments, City Hall, 555 South Main St., Independence

5:30 p.m. - Independence Heritage Museum Advisory

Board meeting, Heritage Museum

281 S 2nd St.

6 p.m. - Free Community Movie Night: “Dungeons & Dragons” at the Dallas Cinema, 166 SE Mill St.

6:30 p.m. - Music in the Park: Bon Bon Vivant (American/Indie), Main Street Park, 120 Main St. E.

6:30 p.m. - Music Jam, Monmouth Senior Community Center

Thursday, July 10 8 a.m. - Yoga, Monmouth Senior Community Center

9 a.m. - Seniors Trip to Beverly Beach State Park, meet at Monmouth Senior Community Center

10 a.m. - Cards/table games, Dallas Area Senior Center

10 a.m. - Calvary Chapel Dallas Sewing and Craft group meeting, 628 SE Jefferson St.

10 a.m. - Age Cafe, Monmouth Senior Community Center

10:15 a.m. - Low Impact Exercise, Dallas Area Senior Center

11:10 a.m. - Low Impact Exercise, Dallas Area SenMonmouth Senior Community Center

11:30 a.m. - Lunch Bunch, Dallas Area Senior Center

12 p.m. - Pinochle, Monmouth Senior Community Center

12 p.m. - 10-Minute Writing/Bridge, Dallas Area Senior Center

1 p.m. - Needle Craft Group, Monmouth Senior Community Center

5 p.m. - Live Music: JoAnna Lee, Benedetto Vineyards, 14020 Orchard Knob Road, Dallas

6 p.m. - Dallas Planning Commission meeting, City Hall, 187 SE Court St.

6:30 p.m. - Connecting Loose Threads, Monmouth Senior Community Center

6:30 p.m. - Independence Days Commission meeting, City Hall, 555 South Main St

7 p.m. - Dallas Sounds of Summer Free Concert Series: Tuesday String Band (bluegrass), Rotary Performing Arts Stage

Friday, July 11

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

9 a.m. - Stretch exercise, Monmouth Senior Community Center

9 a.m. - Seniors trip to Lavender Festival, meet at Monmouth Senior Community Center

10 a.m. - Brunk Farmstead Tours, 5705 Salem Dallas Hwy NW

10 a.m. – Six handed Pinochle/Art Workshop/Cards/ Table Games, Dallas Area Senior Center

10:30 a.m. - Rock Painting Class, Monmouth Senior Community Center

1 p.m. - Tai Chi with Cheryl/Lunch & Learn, Monmouth Senior Community Center

1 p.m. - Ice Cream & Bingo Social, Monmouth

Senior Community Center

1:30 p.m. - Jewelry Making, Monmouth Senior Community Center

4 p.m. - Youth Coding League, Independence Public Library, 175 Monmouth St.

5:30 p.m. - Hot dogs and bingo, open to the public, Dallas Area Senior Center

6 p.m. - Rivers Edge Summer Concert Series: Opening Act - Head Over Feet; Headliner - Stone In Love; $5 at the gate

6 p.m. - Live Music: Midnight Express Band, Elysium Botanicals Wines and Vineyard, 8175 Buena Vista Road, Independence

6:30 p.m. - Acoustic Music Jam, Guthrie Park, 4320 Kings Valley Highway S.

Saturday, July 12

8:30 a.m. - Friends of the Senior Center Pancake Breakfast, 180 S Warren St., Monmouth

9 a.m. - Independence Farmers Market, Umpqua Bank parking lot

10 a.m. - Brunk Farmstead Tours, 5705 Salem Dallas Highway NW

11 a.m. - Dallas Area

Senior Center General meeting and potluck

3 p.m. - Live Music: Nathan Myers, Salt Creek Cider House, 14500 Salt Creek Road, Dallas

7 p.m. - Live Music: Carrie Price, Golden Hop Saloon, 133 C. St., Independence

7 p.m. - Live Music: Gabriel (rock/country), Brew Coffee & Taphouse, 211 S Main St., Independence

Sunday, July 13

8 a.m. - Yoga in the Park, Main Street Park, 120 Main St. E., Monmouth

10 a.m. - Cultural Harvest Collective Market, Main Street Park, 120 Main St. E.

2 p.m. - Live Music: Curtis Reynolds, Benedetto Vineyards, 14020 Orchard Knob Road, Dallas

Monday, July 14

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

9 a.m. - Stretch Exercise, Monmouth Senior Community Center

9 a.m. - Coffee with a Cop, Riverview Park

10 a.m. - Cards/table games/5 Crowns Game, Dallas Area Senior Center

10 a.m. - Cribbage/ASL Class/Card Making with Jen/ Lunch with Meals on Wheels, Monmouth Senior Community Center

11 a.m. - Card Making w/Jen, Monmouth Senior Community Center

11 a.m. - Lunch w/Meals On Wheels, Monmouth Senior Community Center

12 p.m. - Bridge, Dallas Area Senior Center

Community Briefs

1 p.m. - Tai Chi with Cheryl/Technology Help with Ian, Monmouth Senior Community Center

2 p.m. - Nonagenarian Club (Ages 90-99), Monmouth Senior Community Center

4 p.m. - Karaoke, Dallas Area Senior Center

4 p.m. - Youth Coding League, Independence Public Library, 175 Monmouth St.

6:30 p.m. - New Horizons Orchestra, Monmouth Senior Community Center

Tuesday, July 15

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

9 a.m. - Wii Bowling, Monmouth Senior Community Center

9 a.m. - Meet volunteers from Friends of Delbert Hunter Arboretum at the Arboretum Center to maintain arboretum grounds, coffee break at 10:30 a.m., Dallas City Park

9:30 a.m. - Walking Club, Monmouth Senior Community Center

10 a.m. - Financial Education, Dallas Area Senior Center

10 a.m. - Grand Activity Days, Monmouth Senior Community Center

10 a.m. - Cards/Table Games, Dallas Area 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 Street S 10:30 a.m. - Circle of Friends, Dallas Area Senior Center

11:10 a.m. - Low Impact Exercise, Dallas Area Senior Center

12 p.m. - Pinochle, Monmouth Senior Community Center

1 p.m. - Healthy Soul, Dallas Area Senior Center

6:30 p.m. - Monmouth City Council meeting, City Hall, 151 Main St. W. Wednesday, July 16 8 a.m. - Yoga, Monmouth Senior Community Center

8:30 a.m. - Mayor of Independence Office Hours, stop by and share your thoughts, ideas, and questions, City Hall, 555 South Main St.

9 a.m. - Stretch Exercise, Monmouth Senior Community Center

10 a.m. - Tai Chi with John, Monmouth Senior Community Center

10 a.m. - 4-Handed Pinochle/Card/Table Games, Dallas Area Senior Center

Pickleball club offers free summer lessons

The Dallas Pickleball Club is offering free lessons on Tuesdays through August. To sign up for lessons go to https://signup.com/go/ nvYprMa. For more information go to https://www.dallaspickleballclub.net/lessons.

DDA hosts free movie night July 9

The Dallas Downtown Association hosts a free movie night with the showing of “Dungeons & Dragons” July 9 at 6 p .m. at the Dallas Cinema, 166 SE Mill St. Refreshments will be available for purchase.

Dallas hosts concert series July 10

The Dallas Summer Concert Series kicks off July 10 with the Tuesday String Band playing their bluegrass hits at the Dallas Rotary Performing Arts Stage at 7 p.m. The series continues every Thursday through Aug. 14, culminating with the final performance of Johnny Limbo and the Lugnuts’ farewell tour. New for the shows this year is a VIP section at $25 a show or $100 for the season. For more information, go to https://bit.ly/4lhVDgP.

Polk County Democrats meet via Zoom July 10

The Polk County Democrats meet via Zoom at 6:15 p.m. July 10 for an informative and educational meeting. Watch for details about the agenda next week. To receive the link to this meeting and be put on our email announcements list for future events, please go to: www.polkdems.org. Scroll down and click on the link to our Newsletter.

Van Duzer Vineyards hosts murder mystery dinner July 11

Van Duzer Vineyards hosts a Murder Mystery Productions of “A Killer Finish” July 11 at 11975 Smithfield Road, Dallas. It features a 1999-themed murder mystery. However, as you arrive at a winemaker’s dinner, you’ll realize some attendees are there for a funeral instead. There will be unsavory characters, exquisite dining, amazing wine, and murder. For ticket information, go to http://bit.ly/3GfZ7kW.

Friends of the Delbert Hunter Arboretum hosts volunteer workpart July 12

Friends of the Delbert Hunter Arboretum seeks volunteers to help maintain the arboretum grounds July 12 from 8 a.m. to noon. Join in

a variety of tasks, big and small, and stay for as long as you want. Meet at the arboretum center on Park Street. It’s a great way to give back to the community.

Cultivate Community Church hosts bible camp July 14-17

The Cultivate Community Church presents VBS 2025: Wonder Junction July 14-17

Youth entering kindergarten through fifth grade are invited to join their Vacation Bible School from July 14-17, from 9 a.m. to noon at 655 Pacific Ave. S., in Monmouth. With a Wild West train theme, kids will have a blast with games, music, crafts and Bible stories that bring faith to life in a fun and engaging way. Register online at https://bit. ly/43VVPg0

Talk About it Tuesday returns July 15

Talk About It Tuesday meets in person from 6:30-8 p.m. July 15. Join in learning how to connect with local officials by creating compelling messages that get noticed. This presentation is called “Impactful Activism,” and will be followed by a Q&A and tabletop discussions. Anyone who comes, bring your integrity and empathy. For more information and email notification options, go to www.polkdems.

org. Scroll down and click on the link to our Newsletter.

Monmouth hosts ribbon cutting, tournament at new pickleball court July 18

The city of Monmouth hosts a ribbon cutting ceremony and single elimination tournament at their new pickleball court, from 4-6 p.m. July 18 at 401 Hogan Road. The tournament is for the first eight teams to sign up with an option to win some great prizes. Refreshments will be served.

DDA hosts cleanup day July 19

The Dallas Downtown Association seeks volunteers to join them July 19 for DDA Downtown Cleanup Day, at 9 a.m. July 19. Meet at their new base of operations, 184 SE Oak St.

Benedetto’s hosts Christmas Cheer fundraising BBQ July 19

Dallas Christmas Cheer presents the 5th Annual Benedetto’s BBQ Fundraiser at 3 p.m. July 19 at 14020 Orchard Knob Road, Dallas. Play games, enjoy live music, bid on silent auction items all while supporting Christmas Cheer. Limited tickets are $45 and include dinner, first drink and a logo glass to

keep. Purchase tickets online at https://bit.ly/4lao9Bj.

4-H offers Dish Garden & Bird Feeder Workshop July 21 Oregon 4-H Polk County presents a Dish Garden & Bird Feeder Workshop, at 11 a.m. July 21 at 289 E Ellendale Ave., in Dallas. Join in making dish gardens with succulents and bird feeders. All materials are provided. The workshop is open to youth ages 5-18 and ifs free for enrolled 4-H youth and $5 for non 4-H youth. Pre-registration preferred at

https://extension.oregonstate. edu.

Library hosts family activity Power Play for the Planet July 23

The Monmouth Public Library presents Power Play for the Planet, from 2-3 p.m. July 23 at 168 Ecols St. S. play games, solve puzzles, and tackle wacky challenges. The whole family will enjoy designing solutions and imagining a brighter future.

The Monmouth-Independence Chamber of Commerce is pleased to name Michelle Ashley Custom Cakes as their Chamber Member of the Week. Ten years ago, Michelle Ashley discovered sweet creativity and started her tasty business. For two years she did her cooking at her home where she has a licensed kitchen. After acquiring a storefront in Salem there was a steady and growing demand for her delicious products, and she attracted an impressive amount of positive press.

In 2025 Michelle Ashley partnered with Brew Coffee & Tap House in Independence. Now her cakes and sweets can be locally sourced. Be tempted by Michelle Ashley Custom Cakes in their display case at Brew, 211 Main St S, Independence. You’ll want to take home several.

The Chamber’s Golden Gala is coming August 22. The outdoor formal event begins at 6 PM at Gentle House, 855 Monmouth Ave N, Monmouth. Enjoy dinner, drinks, community and dancing. Visit micc-or.org for more information.

My garage sale will be at 2103 SE Academy St. Friday7/11 and Saturday 7/12

It will be from 8am till 2pm. Large selection of women 3x clothing. Lots with Tags still on them, Blackstone Griddle, display shelf, purses etc. Come by there will be something for everyone. The whole neighborhood will have other garage sales going on as well.

condition and was removed from service at the end of 2024. Auction

Details: Date: Friday, July 18, 2025 Time: 9:00 a.m. (registration opens at 8:30 a.m.) Location: Polk County Fire District No.1 - Central Station 1800 Monmouth Street, Independence, Oregon Inspection: Interested bidders may schedule a vehicle inspection by contacting Frank Ehrmantraut during normal business hours. Minimum Bid: $5 000 Payment: Cash or check payable within one week of the auction. Delivery of the vehicle will occur upon receipt of payment. Vehicle Removal: The winning bidder must remove the vehicle within one week following payment. Disclaimer: The vehicle is sold AS-IS / WHERE-IS with no warranty expressed or implied. Polk County Fire District No.1 reserves the right to accept or reject any and all bids. Contact: Frank Ehrmantraut, Division Chief of EMS and Logistics Phone: 541-220-0091 Email: ehrmantraut.frank@polk1 org Stephanie Hale Office Administrator Polk County Fire District No.1 o: 503 838 1510

PUBLIC RECORD

Information for the report comes from law enforcement agencies. Not all calls for service are included. The status of arrests reported may change after further investigation. Individuals arrested or suspected of crimes are considered innocent until proven guilty.

Dallas Police Department

Dallas Police Department

Thursday June 26

At 12:37 a.m., a report of ongoing screaming coming from a residence on Alexander Drive. The residents advised they were having a birthday party.

At 9:05 a.m., a motorist on Mill Street was cited for failing to carry and present a driver’s license, driving while suspended - violation, failure to register vehicle, driving uninsured, and speeding 35 mph in a 20 mph zone.

At 1:24 p.m., a report of the theft of services where people other than employees at a business on Ellendale Avenue were throwing trash in the dumpsters.

At 4:38 p.m., officers caught Freedom Solar representatives soliciting without a permit on Evergreen Avenue. They were advised of the city of Dallas ordinance.

At 8:12 p.m., a report of theft of a phone at Walmart.

At 9:19 p.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle described to be driving recklessly Dallas City Park on Academy Street. The driver said she was buying the car and wanted to test it out. She was warned for reckless driving.

At 10:19 p.m., an officer contacted a group of juveniles and advised them of park hours on Allgood Street. The officer then locked the park’s bathrooms.

At 10:42 p.m., an officer contacted a mother and two children who were playing on La Creole Drive. They were advised of park hours.

At 11:18 p.m., Walmart requested Dallas Police request a group of minors to leave the area.

Friday, June 27

At 9:43 a.m., a report that someone damaged HOA irrigation lines on Evergreen Court.

At 12:03 p.m., an officer investigated a report of an aggressive dog in a yard on Fenton Street. No violations were found.

At 1:39 p.m., a resident on Orchard Drive reported being defrauded in an online based car transaction.

At 9:25 p.m., a report of a group of juveniles fighting at a Kings Valley Highway location. One juvenile was referred to the juvenile department after being charged with assault 4 and disorderly conduct 2

Saturday, June 28

At 12:36 a.m., Nicolas Ortiz was arrested and charged with driving under the influence of an intoxicant on Ellendale Avenue. He was lodged at Polk County Jail.

At 12:27 p.m., a report of someone “rolling coal” at the protest on Main Street.

At 5:52 p.m., a subject reported losing a phone. It was pinging on Webb Lane. The family there advised they found it smashed in front of Chen’s and threw it away.

At 6:33 p.m., Jonathan Royal was reported as being mostly naked, dancing and flipping people off on Ellendale Avenue. He was not naked, but was cited and released for an outstanding warrant out of Linn County.

At 6:39 p.m., an officer recovered a mobile phone from a location on Ellendale

Avenue and provided the owner a copy of the property receipt.

At 9:37 p.m., a driver stopped at the park on Brandvold Drive to check his engine. He was from out of town and unaware of park hours. An officer advised him of such and he moved along.

Sunday, June 29

At 12:39 a.m., Collin Douglas, of Dallas, was arrested on Jefferson Street and charged with driving under the influence of an intoxicant. He was lodged at Polk County Jail.

At 8:03 a.m., Eric Molina was arrested on Jefferson Street and charged with possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine, possession of a controlled substance - schedule four, escape 3 and felon in possession of a weapon.

At 9:08 a.m., Athena Elkins was cited and released on Court Street for trespass 2

At 11:02 a.m., a wallet was found on Main Street near the locksmith shop and turned over to Dallas Police.

At 4 p.m., an officer investigated a report of dogs barking on Coast Mountain Drive. The officer heard no barking on arrival nor when making contact. The complainant stated the dogs bark for hours on end.

At 5:17 p.m., Robert Norton was arrested on Ellendale Avenue on an outstanding state-wide felony parole violation warrant and was lodged at Polk County Jail.

At 9:11 p.m., an officer investigated a 911 hangup call from Washington Street. It turned out to be an 8-yearold playing with his sibling’s phone when he should have been going to bed.

At 10:50 p.m., a report of mortars being set off, possible at or next to Clay Street. An officer was unable to locate any sign of fireworks.

At 11:50 p.m., an officer stopped a vehicle leaving the park on Brandvold Drive just before midnight. The driver was given a verbal warning for being in the park after hours.

Monday, June 30

At 12:30 a.m., a motorist on Main Street was cited for driving while suspended - violation and driving uninsured, a written warning for failure to renew registration and a verbal warning for failure to carry/display license.

At 4:33 a.m., a motorist on Miller Avenue was cited for driving uninsured and received written warning for failure to renew registration.

At 8:03 a.m., a motorist on Ellendale Avenue received a written warning for using a mobile electronic device while driving.

At 8:20 a.m., a motorist on Jefferson Street was cited for speeding 38 mph in a 20-mph drive.

At 10:05 a.m., a motorist on Orchard Drive was cited for speeding 47 mph in a 25-mph zone and for failing to register the vehicle (the driver had been warned numerous times over last year).

At 10:13 a.m., the Dallas High School staff reported finding four to five bags of garbage in their dumpster belonging to a known subject. They attempted to contact the subject at his residence and by cell. They left a note at the residence and via voicemail on the cell advising him he was trespassed from district properties due to theft of services. The subject called police on July 1, stating he was going through a divorce and no longer lives at the residence, but his ex-wife does. He suspected she or her boyfriend dumped the garbage at the high school.

At 11:36 a.m., a motorist on Mill Street was cited for driving while suspended and for driving uninsured, and received a written warning for failure to renew registration.

At 2:32 p.m., Gregory Hankins was arrested on Allgood Street on two outstanding warrants and possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine.

At 2:33 p.m., a motorist on Washington Street reported following a car that had an iPhone on its roof which slid off into the roadway. The driver tried to catch up to the other car, but was unable to locate it. The iPhone was turned in as found property.

At 5:06 p.m., a subject reported losing a Honda key fob with no keys somewhere in the city. No matching items turned in to lost and found at this time.

At 7:19 p.m., the victim of a hit and run on Davis Street occurred while visiting her sister. Her truck was scratched and mirror damaged.

Tuesday, July 1

At 12:25 a.m., a report of a house fire on Walnut Avenue. The fire department responded and the homeowner requested police response, too. It is unknown how the fire started; the homeowner believes it was possibly from fireworks.

At 4:07 a.m., a resident on Ellendale Avenue reported finding two huskies. The complainant will keep them until morning.

At 5:36 a.m., a report of a female sitting on the bridge on Southeast Fir Villa Road. An officer located the subject, who was walking home. She was given a courtesy ride home.

At 9:31 a.m., school staff advised of an ongoing problem with neighbors running their dog through the bushes on Oakdale Heights Elementary School property causing damage. Staff requested they be advised to stay off property with the dog. An officer contacted the dog owner and conveyed the message.

At 9:31 a.m., an officer was waved down by a female stating two huskies were running east on Ellendale Avenue towards La Creole Drive. The officer promised to look for them. The dogs were located on La Creole. Another officer contacted the owner and they were able to get them both in her vehicle.

At 9:36 a.m., a report of a vehicle parked in the River Drive area. A traveler was taking a nap before his trip to Seattle.

At 12:26 p.m., Albany Police Department reported recovering a barrel and slide of firearm from a Dallas suspect.

At 1:01 p.m., a cell phone found on Godsey Road was returned to its owner.

At 2:09 p.m., a motorist was cited for speeding 50 mph in a 35-mph zone on Southeast Fir Villa Road and Southeast Academy Street.

At 2:38 p.m., a motorist from Keizer was cited for speeding 47-mph in a 25 mph zone on Orchard Drive.

At 7:50 p.m., officers investigated a report of assault on Court Bar. Neither articulated injury. Case taken as information only.

At 9:35 p.m., a resident on Levens Street reported someonr put a hole through the driver side back window of their vehicle, likely with a rock. There is no suspect information.

At 10:05 a.m., a report of kids playing in large dumpsters in front of the high school. They were gone by the time officers arrived.

At 10:06 a.m., a report of theft at Walmart by unknown suspects.

At 11:47 p.m., officers responded to a reported

Burglary on Levens Street. Instead they found it to be a case of trespassing. Two Juveniles and two adults were in a group that had been drinking to a minor degree.

Wednesday, July 2

At 4:41 a.m., an officer responded to a suspicious vehicle on Bovard Avenue. A female subject was “looking for a spider” in her car.

At 7:51 a.m., officers responded to a minor crash at an intersection on Fairview Avenue. They provided the drivers with an incident number and information exchange.

At 9:04 a.m., a motorist reported a road rage incident on Mill Street involving honking and following too closely. The complainant changed direction of travel and the other vehicle drove away.

At 9:16 a.m., a motorist on Ellendale Avenue was cited for using a mobile electronic device - first offense while driving.

At 2:10 p.m., Janette Burgamy was cited and released on Miller Avenue for theft 3

At 7:17 p.m., a report of a fight at Ellendale Plaza. Police spoke with one potential victim, who did not want to talk to the police. They were unable to locate the other participant.

At 9:46 p.m., a report of illegal fireworks on River Drive. Officers were unable to locate any illegal activity.

At 10:27 p.m., a report of a minor fender bender in a drive through on Ellendale Avenue. An officer facilitated insurance information exchange for both parties. As damage was below $2 500, no report was taken.

At 11:56 p.m., an officer picked up a meth pipe from Salem Health for destruction.

Independence Police Department

Friday, June 27

Officers responded to a report of a juvenile fight on Monmouth Street. They decided to let the parents handle the situation rather than law enforcement.

Saturday, June 28

An officer noticed a suspended driver operating her vehicle in the 900 block of North Main Street. Upon initiating a traffic stop it was discovered that Adele Lee Uber had an outstanding probation violation warrant as well as driving while suspended at the violation level.

Fredy Laureano Alvarado was booked into the Polk County Jail on two outstanding warrants. Initially he caught the attention of a traffic patrol officer while speeding in a residential area. Alvarado admitted to not having valid driving privileges.

At 1:16 p.m., a report of the theft of a ladder from a residence on Maple Drive.

Sunday, June 29

A detainer warrant was issued for Ezequiel Orlando Arredondo related to an animal neglect offense. Officers contacted Arredondo at a relative’s house in the 400 block of 5th Street and he was taken into custody.

At 8:27 a.m., a motorist was stopped on Independence Highway and was arrested on an outstanding out of state warrant for driving under the influence of an intoxicant. He was also cited for driving while suspended - violation and for having no insurance. The vehicle was towed for being a hazard.

Monday, June 30

Rigoberto Bautista Ramirez was taken into custody without incident on an outstanding warrant out of Polk County.

At 2:06 p.m., a local transient, who suffers from paranoia, reported that while

riding past a construction site on Main Street, a worker that was far away from him threatened to stab him with a pickax for no reason.

Tuesday, July 1

At 3:25 p.m., an elderly male called 911 because he did not want to live at a care home on C Street after he trashed his room. He was transported to the hospital due to medical reasons.

Monmouth Police Department

Roger J. Martin, 43, was arrested June 25 on an outstanding warrant.

Pablo S. Francisco, 40, was arrested June 21 and charged with driving under the influence of an intoxicant.

Solosolo Limu Jr., 21, was arrested June 14 and charged with disorderly conduct 2 and assault 4

Stephanie M. Jackson, 33, was arrested June 28 and charged with assault 4

Howard Clyde Martin, 63 was arrested July 1 on an outstanding warrant.

Logan Key, 22, was arrested June 27 and charged with driving under the influence of an intoxicant.

Polk County Sheriff’s Office

Wednesday, June 25

At 12:53 a.m., a deputy stopped a vehicle for failure to signal when exiting Highway 22 onto Highway 223. The driver was arrested and charged with driving while suspended - misdemeanor and was transported to Polk County Jail.

At 1:30 a.m., a deputy stopped a motorist who was taking their cat, that had a broken leg, to the emergency vet in West Salem. The deputy informed her that her driving was way too fast, and she needs to get there in one piece. Due to the circumstances, she was given only a warning and was asked to drive more safely.

At 1:54 a.m., a deputy performed a welfare check on a resident on Helmick Road. She had pressed her emergency button and told the alarm company that she had been stuck outside for almost 5 hours. Medics arrived first and were able to get her back inside. A medic confirmed that the resident did have a fall in the driveway. The deputy later arrived and made sure everything was okay.

At 4:22 a.m., a report of a vehicle versus elk accident on Highway 22 near Rickreall Road. The car sustained more than $2,500 in damage. The driver declined aid from medics.

At 11:13 a.m., a male subject was cited and released on Jefferson Street on an outstanding warrant from Marion County.

At 12:55 p.m., someone turned in a wallet found while out on a walk on Oakdale Road. The wallet was placed in safekeeping at PCSO until the owner can be contacted.

At 2:14 p.m., a deputy stopped and arrested Steve Rogers on Ballston Road. He was cited for failure to install an ignition interlock device and was charged with driving while suspended - misdemeanor and lodged at Polk County Jail.

At 2:11 p.m., a deputy responded to a road rage driving complaint that turned into a menacing on the highway. The suspect is the ex boyfriend of the victim’s new girlfriend and he was apparently upset that they are spending time together. The suspect fled to Monmouth before the deputy arrived, who met with the victim and gave the information to Oregon State Patrol.

At 2:58 p.m., a deputy responded to a report of an SUV parked alongside

Highway 99 with what appeared to have someone passed out in the driver’s seat. The deputy found the vehicle and spoke with a female driver who said she ran out of gas, but had a friend coming to get her some in the next few minutes.

At 4:29 p.m., a motorist was stopped on Hoffman Road and cited for speeding 67 mph in a 45-mph zone. The driver was also warned for failing to update address on driver’s license and failure to carry proof of registration.

At 4:51 p.m., a motorist was stopped on Orrs Corner Road and cited for driving while suspended - violation and failure to renew registration. The driver was also warned for failing to update the address on the driver’s license.

At 7:12 p.m., a resident on Orrs Corner Road reported their garbage bin was missing after leaving it out for services. It’s possible the garbage company took her bin instead of her neighbor’s.

At 7:50 p.m., a resident on Echo Drive reported there were approximately 20 metal deck screws scattered in the roadway that possibly fell out of a construction truck.

At 9:41 p.m., a deputy investigated a crash between two vehicles on Glen Creek Road. Driver No. 1 was reportedly driving approximately 40 MPH, crossed the double yellow centerline into the eastbound lane and struck Driver No. 2 head on. Driver No. 1 did not stop and continued to drive approximately one block west of the crash and stopped, blocking the westbound lane. The driver was located passed out behind the wheel of his vehicle. Saul Figueroa Solorio failed a field sobriety test, was arrested and charged with driving under the influence of an intoxicant, failure to perform duties of a driver and reckless driving. He was transported to Polk County Jail.

Thursday, June 26 At 1:04 a.m., a deputy stopped a vehicle for speeding 69 mph in a 55-mph zone and failure to dim headlights. The driver, Shara Affolter/Noblin was suspended and had a valid, lodgeable misdemeanor warrant out of Clackamas County. She was arrested and on the warrant and lodged at Polk County Jail.

At 5:12 a.m., a motorist was stopped on Highway 99 for speeding. The driver was cited for speeding 79 mph in a 55-mph zone, no operator’s license and driving uninsured. Because the car was uninsured, it was towed.

At 6:47 a.m., a motorist on Greenwood Road was cited for operation without fenders or mudguards and was warned for failure to display license plates and failure to maintain lane.

At 9:07 a.m., deputies assisted Oregon State Police at the scene of an accident on Highway 22. One of the drivers was trapped and was extracted by medics and taken to Salem Hospital for what appeared to be minor injuries. The other driver and passengers sustained no injuries.

At 10:06 a.m., a resident on Oak Hill Road reported a motorist arrived around 8:30 a.m. and began doing donuts on the road in front of the house. The subject also drove up the caller’s two driveways and damaged them by peeling out and spinning around in there too. The subject, driving a later model dark silver Toyota Tacoma, also did donuts in front of another house on Oak Hill Road. If ID’d, the driver faces charges for criminal mischief, reckless driving and criminal trespass 2

State releases independent audit of Oregon Motor Voter Program

The Oregon Department of Administrative Services (DAS) commissioned a thirdparty vendor, Baker Tilly Advisory Group, to conduct an independent audit of the Oregon Motor Voter (OMV) program at the direction of Governor Tina Kotek and SOS last fall. The independent audit was one of many accountability measures initiated in response to the data entry errors discovered in OMV.

The audit found that the steps taken by Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) and SOS to close the gaps in the OMV program were largely effective. ODOT and SOS are acting on additional recommendations from the audit to further support the program.

“I take any error that undermines Oregonians’ confidence in their election system incredibly seriously,” Governor Tina Kotek said. “From the moment the errors

were caught, I committed to ongoing accountability and continual improvement of the Oregon Motor Voter program. This report underscores the strength of that work.”

“This independent audit is one of many things we are doing to lock down and root out errors in the Motor Voter system and earn back Oregonians’ trust. My team is already acting on these recommendations, and I’m glad to hear that what we’ve done so far is effective. We

are committed to running fair, secure, accessible elections here in Oregon,” said Oregon Secretary of State Tobias Read.

The audit assessed the effectiveness, accuracy and security of the OMV program, focusing on compliance, internal controls and data integrity. The Oregon Driver and Motor Vehicle Services (DMV) division of the ODOT and SOS elections division actively participated in the audit.

The audit concluded that new processes and internal controls at DMV and SOS improved areas where errors were previously identified, although some gaps remain and additional improvements could be made. Those additional improvements are focused on reviewing OMV related rules, manuals and trainings; creating formal processes for tracking and evaluating errors in the system; and conducting more

regular oversight of data and error logs. The findings and recommendations from the audit are intended to enhance the integrity, compliance and operational efficiency of the OMV program, earning public trust and assuring access to a fundamental right through the automatic voter registration process.

For additional information on this audit, go to www.oregon.gov/das/Pages/odot-motor-voter-audit.aspx.

Drazan blasts ODOT messaging after legislative failure

By NIGEL JAQUISS

House Minority Leader

Christine Drazan (R-Canby)

reacted strongly to an email Oregon Department of Transportation director Kris Strickler sent to agency employees last week in the wake of the Legislature’s failure to pass a transportation funding bill.

In her response July 2 Drazan was combative: “Stop the gaslighting and do your job, director Strickler,” she wrote.

Strickler originally communicated with the agency’s nearly 5 000 employees right after the session ended, warning that layoffs loomed for about 600 of them.

“This is the hardest message I’ve ever had to send in my career,” Strickler wrote June 28 at 9:03 pm.

“Moments ago, the legislative session ended without the Legislature passing a transportation funding

OHA

package providing ODOT with either new funding, funding flexibility, or even an interim step so we would not have to take immediate reductions,” he continued.

“The leadership team and governor pushed to the very end, including the governor testifying on a bill this evening. Because of this inaction, we are forced to make significant cuts starting this month.”

Although Democrats hold the three-fifths supermajorities in both legislative chambers that Oregon requires to pass new taxes, none of the various versions of the transportation funding bill generated enough support to result in a successful floor vote.

Lawmakers have cited a variety of explanations for the failure. Among them: Republican intransigence; the late arrival of the bill, which didn’t appear until the second week of June; and overreach on the part

of Democrats, who initially proposed a $15 billion tax hike over the next decade, an increase that was difficult for members in swing districts to support. A slimmed-down version, which would have raised about $12 billion, was no more digestible, and a last-gasp, 3-cents-per-gallon gas tax increase failed to earmark any funding for local governments.

Underlying the failure: a general lack of confidence in ODOT among many lawmakers. Perhaps nothing captured the agency’s reputational issues in the Capitol more clearly than when a senior department official admitted to lawmakers early in the session that ODOT had made a billion-dollar error in its budget.

In his end-of-session email, however, Strickler repeated the agency talking points that had not convinced lawmakers of ODOT’s case:

“For many years, this agency has informed the Oregon Legislature that a structural revenue issue driven by flattening and declining gas tax revenue, inflation, and statutory restrictions on available funding would eventually force the agency to dramatically reduce its staffing and service levels if no intervention came forward,” he wrote.

Drazan didn’t appreciate that framing. Her caucus and Senate Republicans had urged ODOT to make significant cuts rather than seek so much new money.

“I have read your lengthy email to ODOT employees,” Drazan wrote. “Make no mistake, this is an offensive abrogation of duty. Throughout this legislative process you have on behalf of your agency failed to take full responsibility for a culture of careless fiscal management, political doublespeak, and blame shifting.”

Drazan blamed Strickler’s boss, Gov. Tina Kotek, for failing to engage with Republican leaders on ODOT’s budget and chastised the agency for declining to work with GOP lawmakers.

“ODOT refused to respond to questions and instead obfuscated and dodged hard conversations,” Drazan wrote. “It appears you have since spread the false narrative that your agency leadership was working tirelessly to build awareness and support for their work.”

Drazan said ODOT and Democratic leaders deserved the result they got.

“You advanced backroom deals that failed to pan out,” she wrote. “Public employees should understand that by choosing to exclusively engage in political gamesmanship you and the governor gambled and lost.”

She added: “I would respectfully say you have no business playing the hero in

staff emails, while stoking fears among ODOT’s workforce and conjuring up false narratives with imaginary villains.”

Of course, 2026 is an election year, and Drazan, who ran against Kotek in 2022, losing by 3 5 points, is keenly aware of that. But her tone suggests two things: First, the business community, which depends on a well-functioning transportation system to move its products and whose members are Republicans’ financial supporters, is not in a conciliatory mood.

Second, Kotek’s intimations that she plans to call the Legislature into special session to pass stopgap funding for ODOT face a significant obstacle as Republicans are clearly not feeling much pressure to fall in line. ODOT and Kotek did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Drazan’s email.

urges parents, caregivers to avoid recalled baby food

Following reports of lead poisoning cases in two counties, Oregon Health Authority is urging parents and caregivers to avoid using a baby food that has been recalled by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Two cases of elevated blood lead levels in babies were detected in Oregon. During interviews with the families, investigators determined the children consumed the flavor affected by the recall.

From Page B7

At 1:12 p.m., a motorist on Pacific Highway was cited for speeding 81 mph in a 55-mph zone.

At 2:05 p.m., a deputy stopped and arrested Tiffany Osborn. She was charged with driving while suspended - misdemeanor and was also cited for failing to install an ignition interlock device. She was lodged at Polk County Jail.

At 8:07 p.m., a report of a car versus deer collision on Ellendale Road. After the deer ran into the vehicle’s quarter panel, it took off into the woods.

Friday, June 27

At 12:18 a.m., a deputy investigated a single motorcycle accident on Oak Grove Road. The driver was found in the bushes, disoriented and not sure how he got there. He was taken to Salem Hospital Emergency Department. His motorcycle was found about 200 feet away. It appears he left the roadway, flipped, launching him into the bushes. He had no alcohol in his system.

At 12:31 a.m., a resident on Pioneer Road reported observing a male subject exiting his detached shop on his property. He had no security cameras. A

The cases followed a recall alert in March of more than 25 000 packages of a baby food called Good & Gather Baby Pea, Zucchini, Kale, Thyme Vegetable Puree. The product was sold in 4-ounce containers. No other flavor of the product has been subject to recall.

Good & Gather is a Target store brand, and the product was sold nationwide at the company’s stores. The FDA has since labeled the recall a

deputy was unable to find any sign of forced entry.

At 8:55 a.m., a motorist on Edgewater Street was cited for expired tags and improperly wearing the seatbelt.

At 11:11 a.m., a deputy stopped a motorist on Pacific Highway for having no front plate. The driver, Guadalupe Sanchez, was arrested and charged with driving while suspended - misdemeanor. He was also cited for driving uninsured. He was lodged at Polk County Jail and his car towed.

At 12:09 p.m., residents on Ellendale Road reported an injured fawn that needed to be dispatched. A deputy dispatched the fawn.

At 1:08 p.m., a motorist was stopped on Miller Avenue for expired tags. The driver was cited for driving while suspended - violation.

At 4:53 p.m., a report of a roll away tool box valued at $800 stolen from a location on Airlie Road.

At 9:25 p.m., a deputy provided cover while Dallas Police investigated a fight between juveniles at Walmart. One was referred to the Juvenile Department for assault 4 and disorderly conduct 2. The other was taken to Salem Health with her mother. Charges are pending for others involved in the fight upon review of security footage.

Saturday, June 28

Class II event, which means that use of or exposure to this product “may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences,” but the probability of serious health impacts is low.

While the FDA recall is considered “terminated,” the product has a best use date of December 2025, so there may be families with the product still in their homes.

Lead is of special concern for babies, toddlers and

At 9:43 a.m., a deputy investigated a report of a head-on collision on Independence Highway with an occupant reportedly unconscious and squished in one of the cars. Further updates showed no one was unconscious and there were no obvious injuries.

At 12:14 p.m., a report of two cows loose on Maple Grove Road. Deputies checked a nearby orchard where they located the cows and returned them to their owners.

At 8:50 p.m., a deputy investigated a report of another vehicle tailgating and failing to maintain its lane eastbound on Highway 22

The deputy found and stopped the driver, who exhibited signs of impairment. He failed a field sobriety test and was arrested and charged with driving under the influence of an intoxicant and reckless endangering. He blew a BAC of .12%.

At 9:54 p.m., a deputy assisted a state trooper with the arrest of a motorist for driving under the influence of an intoxicant.

At 9:48 p.m., a resident on Oakdale Road complained of loud music from a nearby house. A deputy spoke with the loud resident who promised to keep it down.

At 10:52 p.m., a report of a deer in the ditch on Butler Hill Road that needed to be dispatched. By the time a

children because even small amounts of lead may affect behavior, cognitive development and academic achievement, according to American Academy of Pediatrics.

“While lead is toxic for all people regardless of age, small children are especially at risk because they’re still growing and developing,”

OHA Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program Coordinator Ryan Barker said. “Continued exposure over

deputy arrived, the deer had already died.

At 11:29 p.m., a deputy provided backup for state police as they investigated a crash scene. The driver was arrested and charged with driving under the influence of an intoxicant. The passenger got another ride home.

Sunday, June 29

At 4:14 p.m., a deputy responded to a report of CPR needed at a location on Salem Dallas Highway. By the time the deputy arrived, the patient was being loaded into an ambulance, unconscious.

At 7:49 p.m., a motorist on Highway 22 was cited for speeding 30 mph over the speed limit.

At 11 p.m., a report of a motorist who struck a deer on Highway 22. OSP was notified and they took care of the crash.

Monday, June 30

At 1:41 a.m., a report of a deer in the middle of Highway 22 near Highway 51. A responding deputy was unable to locate a deer.

At 3:01 a.m., a motorist on Highway 22 was cited for speeding 76 mph in a 55-mph zone.

At 6:55 a.m., a motorist from Texas driving on Highway 22 near Greenwood was cited for speeding 85 mph in a 55-mph zone, driving uninsured and for having no operator’s license.

time can permanently damage their central nervous system, which may result in longterm health problems, such as learning disorders, impaired speech and brain damage.”

Signs of lead poisoning are not always easy to see and can be mistaken for other illnesses. Without a blood test, lead poisoning may go undiagnosed, especially since affected children often don’t look or act sick.

At 9:55 a.m., a resident on Brown Road reported someone shot their truck, leaving a bullet hole. A deputy took photos, but did not find any bullets.

At 2:27 p.m., a report of a rollover crash on Smithfield Road. A juvenile driver had lost control around a curve after hitting a pothole, causing the crash. He and a male juvenile passenger were uninjured.

At 3:33 p.m., a deputy investigated a report of a subject who pulled a gun on the son of a property owner on Clow Corner Road. Witness testimonies disputed the reported events. However, the suspect did have an outstanding warrant and was arrested.

At 7:03 p.m. a motorist on Highway 99 was cited for speeding 91 mph in a 55-mph zone.

At 7:10 p.m., a motorist on Buena Vista Road was stopped for expired registration. The driver was cited for driving while suspended and driving uninsured. The vehicle was impounded by Dallas Towing.

Tuesday, July 1 At 5:08 a.m., a motorist on Highway 22 near milepost 10 was cited for speeding 79 mph in a 55-mph zone.

At 8:06 a.m., a deputy came upon a motorist with a flat tire on McBee Road. The deputy attempted to help the driver change the tire

Possible signs of lead exposure and symptoms in children include:

• Tiredness or loss of energy.

• Hyperactivity.

• Reduced attention span.

• Irritability or crankiness.

• Poor appetite.

• Weight loss.

• Trouble sleeping.

• Constipation.

• Aches or pains in stomach.

unsuccessfully. The driver’s fiance finally arrived at the scene and was able to change the tire.

At 8:15 a.m., a motorist on Airlie Road was cited for speeding 80 mph in a 55-mph zone.

At 8:58 a.m., a motorist on Highway 99 near milepost 23 was cited for speeding 80 mph in a 55-mph zone. At 12:01 p.m., a female motorist flagged down a deputy on Edgewater Street, saying she ran out of gas. The deputy got a gas can and provided her with two gallons of gas, At 2:03 p.m., a motorist’s brake gave out on Davidson Road, causing him to hit a ditch and flip the vehicle on its top. The vehicle was taped off and a private tow was called.

At 4:46 p.m., a deputy retrieved mail found strewn all over near Highway 223 near milepost 15 5. It was collected to place into evidence and return to the owners. At 9:07 p.m., a deputy investigated a domestic disturbance on Gibson Road. A male subject was arrested, charged with domestic harassment and lodged at Polk County Jail. At 11:47 p.m., a deputy assisted with the search of a burglary suspect that ran into Dallas City Park. Dallas officers located and arrested the suspect quickly.

Culture change coming to Dragons’ hoops program

By LANCE MASTERSON For The Itemizer-Observer

The not-so lazy days of summer are the perfect time for Dallas varsity girls basketball players to work out the kinks on the court.

After all, the girls are getting plenty of court time, as they are in the midst of a full-blown summer schedule.

One that features league play, team camp and open gym. It’s been three years since the girls team experienced such an exhaustive offseason.

Summer play is also months away from power indexes, league competition and playoff positioning. So missed shots, careless turnovers and defensive lapses aren’t as costly. Instead, mistakes can be seen as learning opportunities.

“It’s so important for these athletes to get in game situations they haven’t experienced before, to work on development, and to be willing to fail in order to grow,” Dragons coach Drew Richman said.

Special attention is being paid to shooting the ball, with emphasis on encouraging players to fire away when open.

“Girls tend to be unselfish to a fault,” Richman said.

“Sometimes, not taking an open shot is actually being selfish, because you’re passing up a good opportunity for the team.”

His message is being heard.

“I’ve seen people who used to be too scared to shoot when they were open. Now, they’re more confident, and we’ve been doing a lot of shooting drills to build that confidence,” senior Devyn Garcia said.

Sophomore Alivia Webster is more comfortable with having the green light.

“It helps to know that coach Richman trusts us,” she said. “He’s not going to pull you out for missing a shot, and that gives you the confidence to just play.”

Richman is entering his first full season as head coach. He took over the program a year ago, but not in time to schedule out last summer. Assistant coach Dusty Pires stepped in to keep things afloat with group workouts.

This year is different. The girls participated in a Salembased summer league and then attended team camp at

Oregon State University. The camp provided unique opportunities for bonding and skills development. Thirteen Dallas players participated in one-onone, three-on-three, and threepoint shooting contests. They also played seven games.

“This camp gave us a chance to compete against teams at our current level and to really grow as a group,” Richman said. “The girls game back with a better understanding of each other and a shared sense of our bigger goals.”

Workouts are now focusing on skills development. The girls are also encouraged to put in time on their own. It’s this type of player, one willing to put in extra work, that Richman envisions building his program around.

“As the program continues to develop, I’m looking for players who fall in love with the process. Players who want to be in the gym,” Richman said. “I know it won’t be everyone. But I think we have a few … gym rats … on this team. Players who are ready to put in the work.”

All this in the name of culture change.

Dallas basketball players hone their dribbling skills during

out at the high school gym. The girls have participated in league play, team camp and open gym workouts in what has been a busy summer.

“I think it’s good that (Richman) wants to change the program. It feels pretty positive,” Garcia said.

Garcia, who also plays soccer for Dallas, said change is coming. Players are more engaged, she added, and there’s a stronger focus on year-round development and chemistry.

Webster agreed with Garcia’s assessment.

“At the start of last season, the chemistry just wasn’t there,” Webster said. “But over time, and especially this summer, we’ve built that chemistry. We’re working better together now.”

Building bonds with players not yet in high school is critical in growing the program, Richman added. So the team will host basketball camps for younger players.

“Our girls are rock stars in the eyes of those little kids,” Richman said. “The more we connect with our youth now, the more they’ll want to be part of the program later. It’s how we build something sustainable.” The Dragons were 2-16 in Mid-Willamette Conference play, 4-19 overall, last season.

ODOT layoffs will hit key democratic constituency

BY NIGEL JAQUISS Oregon Journalism Project

To better understand the high stakes of the final days of the 2025 legislative session, it’s useful to consider one fact that was largely absent from the debate over House Bill 2025, the multibillion-dollar transportation funding measure that failed in numerous incarnations: The biggest immediate loser will be the members of Service Employees International Union who are set to be laid off later this week.

Fully half of ODOT’s nearly 5 000 employees are SEIU members: 1,700 in maintenance, operations and headquarters jobs and about 800 at the DMV, Oregon Driver & Motor Vehicle Services. Immediately after the session ended, ODOT director Kris Strickler sent an email to all employees, warning of 600 layoffs. That message was consistent with agency messaging over the past year, but still came as a jolt.

“ODOT is finalizing the list, and we expect hundreds of workers to receive layoff notices on July 7,” SEIU spokeswoman Pati Urias tells OJP.

The ODOT budget bill, which was separate from HB 2025, showed that layoffs would fall most heavily on ODOT’s maintenance workers, who perform the basic, essential duties of keeping the state’s 8 000 miles of highway and 2 700 bridges in good working order.

The agency is a vast presence across Oregon. It owns or leases 1 200 buildings, including 88 maintenance stations and 59 DMV field offices.

In the legislative session’s final week, Democratic leaders worked themselves into a frenzy, trying unsuccessfully to pass some version—any version—of a multibillion-dollar transportation funding package that was supposed to be the centerpiece of the 2025 session and

stave off cuts to ODOT’s current service level.

Lawmakers focused enormous amounts of energy on the department’s budget, even though polling conducted on the funding package showed Oregonians ranked transportation far down their lists of concerns.

All those efforts failed, despite a last-minute push by Gov. Tina Kotek. Formerly the longest-serving House speaker in Oregon history, Kotek worked the building furiously in the session’s final hours, to no avail.

In a post-session press conference, the governor bashed legislators for leaving two days before the statutory end of session, calling their failure to fill ODOT’s funding gap “disappointing.”

“The Legislature adjourned two days before constitutional sine die without meeting even the basic needs of our transportation system,” Kotek added in a June 28 statement,

using the Latin term for session’s end.

Melissa Unger, executive director of SEIU Local 503, used the same word repeatedly in an interview with OJP about the looming ODOT layoffs.

“Our members are disappointed generally that we didn’t figure out how to pass this package,” Unger says.

“As a union we often try to do hard things. Oregonians expect our elected officials to do hard things. Did elected officials do what they needed to do to keep our roads, highways and bridges safe and our traffic moving? The answer is no.”

SEIU, the state’s largest public employee union, with more than 72 000 members, wields enormous clout in Salem. The union’s main political action committee spent $2 2 million supporting Democratic candidates in 2022 and $1 8 million last year. Its ability to mobilize members for door-knocking, phone-banking,

and other activities adds additional value.

The union’s support helped elect Kotek and gain Democrats the supermajorities in both chambers required to pass new taxes—like the transportation bill, which in its largest incarnation would have yielded about $15 billion over the next decade.

That amount and skinnier versions ultimately proved too much for lawmakers to swallow, but Unger says she’s hopeful Kotek and legislative leaders will find a way to create a more palatable package, either in a special legislative session or in next year’s short session. In the meantime, SEIU is scrambling, hoping ODOT will cut only vacant positions and find every penny of savings it can.

“We are trying to do everything we can to save these jobs right now,” Unger says. “Workers are very stressed out.”

at https://bit.ly/4nqyQRL or at the check-in booth the day of the event.