News Archive Listing



news items published in May 2012


Staff Columns

Having the right to say something doesn’t mean we should
published: 5/1/2012 3:20:43 PM

In recent days, the U.S. and China have been in talks regarding the fate of civil rights activist Chen Guangcheng, who is believed to have sought refuge from the U.

How to trim the time and money spent on coupon clipping
published: 5/8/2012 10:06:37 AM

I’m going to let you in on a little secret. There’s money in the pages of this newspaper. OK, not real money. We’d get in trouble for printing that.



Our Editorial

Security finally getting attention at The Estates
published: 5/1/2012 3:25:08 PM

The Estates Golf & Country Club recently avoided what could have been a major theft operation had a guest not taken matters into his own hands. The storage lot, which contains RVs, boats, fifth wheels, trailers and many more items, is located at the north end of The Estates, right next to Interstate 5 and a large open field.

Out of the ashes
published: 5/16/2012 11:45:51 AM

The Woodburn community was stunned last Friday morning by the sight of huge clouds of smoke and flames exploding out of Woodburn High School.As the fire raged on and firefighters from numerous adjoining fire districts began arriving to lend support in fighting it, it soon became clear that the incident was increasingly serious and would have major ramifications for the school, students and the entire community.



Letters to the Editor

Letters to the editor for May 16
published: 5/16/2012 11:47:40 AM

ObamaCare likely to be voted downTo the editor:The U.S. Supreme Court is going to rule on ObamaCare. When I first thought about this, I guessed President Obama would win a 7-2 decision.

5-2 Letters to the Editor
published: 5/1/2012 3:06:56 PM

Liberal groups recruiting illegal voters To the editor: This letter is in reference to Doug Burkhardt’s opinion piece, “Right to vote should not be a partisan issue” in the April 18 edition of the Woodburn Independent.

5-9 Letters to the editor
published: 5/9/2012 9:31:25 AM

Voter fraud should be fought regardless of political party To the editor: I was curious when I read Doug Burkhardt’s column, “Right to vote should not be a partisan issue,” in the April 18 edition of the Woodburn Independent, on voter fraud and was amazed to find that you do not believe there is an issue with voter fraud in this country.



Guest Opinions

Lots of changes, but patience is key
published: 5/1/2012 3:03:06 PM

By Patti Milne Marion County Commissioner Hurry up and wait is where I find myself these past couple of weeks. And with newspaper deadlines looming, I’m left in limbo as to how to finalize this column.



Church News

Local church offering parenting workshop
published: 5/8/2012 9:32:30 AM

AURORA — Families in the North Marion area are invited by North Marion Fellowship to a free workshop on May 18-19. The workshop is open to couples and single fathers and will cover topics such as fatherhood, healthy relationships and parenting with love and logic.



Births

5-2 Birth Announcements
published: 5/1/2012 9:40:11 AM

Ludlow Macy Mahlon Ludlow, daughter of Katie and Brock Ludlow of Aurora, was born at 11:17 a.m. on Jan. 23, 2012, at Meridian Park Hospital. At birth, she weighed 8 pounds and was 20 inches long.



Sports

Yakis leads Woodburn golf team
published: 5/1/2012 12:40:52 PM

WOODBURN — Woodburn junior Sergi Yakis shot an 87 at the OGA Golf Course in Woodburn to lead the Bulldogs to fourth place at the six-team Mid-Willamette Conference match on April 23.

Three local wrestlers place at Reno tournament
published: 5/1/2012 12:42:53 PM

RENO, Nev. — Three local athletes earned top-six finishes at one of the most prestigious wrestling tournaments in the nation.  North Marion Middle School’s Lane Stigall won the 130-pound championship in the 12-and-under age bracket at the Cliff Keen Reno World wrestling championships on April 15 in Reno, Nev.

Huskies fall under .500 in conference play
published: 5/1/2012 12:44:18 PM

MADRAS — In a fast-paced game at Madras High School, the North Marion baseball team was hurt by small mistakes that added up to a painful 2-1 loss on the road Friday evening.

Davidson wins at Bucks' home meet
published: 5/1/2012 12:49:19 PM

ST. PAUL — Despite winning just one event, the St. Paul girls track and field team placed second at the 12-team Buckaroo Roundup on Thursday afternoon at St.

North Marion impressive in win over Estacada
published: 5/1/2012 12:53:46 PM

AURORA — With less than two weeks remaining in the regular season, anything could happen in the Tri-Valley Conference standings. The North Marion softball team, which started the season on a winning tear, but has struggled to find consistency in league play, is still in a position to finish anywhere from first through fifth in the conference.

Cougars building with 'new blood'
published: 5/2/2012 1:07:30 AM

GERVAIS — With about 40 members of the track and field team, Gervais has a much larger crop of athletes than in years past, which bodes well for the future of the program.

Long-standing record falls at Meet of Champions
published: 5/2/2012 12:13:25 PM

SALEM — Sometimes the best competition brings out the best performances from athletes.  The Meet of Champions certainly had that effect on Kennedy freshman Loghan Sprauer, who broke a 30-year-old school record in the 400 meters on Saturday afternoon at Willamette University.

Woodburn hosting girls basketball camp May 21-24
published: 5/3/2012 12:18:08 PM

WOODBURN — All sixth-, seventh- and eighth-grade girls within the Woodburn community are invited to participate in a spring basketball camp at Woodburn High School.

Cougars earn comeback win over Sheridan
published: 5/3/2012 12:33:25 PM

GERVAIS — The Gervais softball team ended a six-game losing streak with a comeback win over Sheridan on May 8 at Gervais High School.  The Cougars scored eight runs in the second inning to overcome an early deficit for a 10-9 victory over the visiting Spartans.

Galindo's Taekwondo athletes earn 34 medals at championship tournament
published: 5/4/2012 1:33:14 PM

 GRESHAM — Fourteen local competitors won a total of 34 medals at the 39th annual Northwest Taekwondo Championships, held April 21 at Mount Hood Community College in Gresham.

Bulldogs take aim on district tennis tournament
published: 5/9/2012 1:01:32 PM

WOODBURN — It’s been a trying season for the relatively young Woodburn boys tennis team, but coach Tom Lonergan has high hopes the Bulldogs can end the season on a positive note at the Mid-Willamette Conference district tournament later this week.

Cougars pound Sheridan, Amity to build some momentum
published: 5/9/2012 1:05:16 PM

GERVAIS — An offensive outpouring by the Gervais baseball team on May 8 flowed over into the following day as the Cougars outscored their opponents 16-1 in a pair of victories last week.

Parkinson leads Huskies at Stayton Twilight
published: 5/9/2012 1:08:21 PM

STAYTON — Jeremy Parkinson was the Huskies’ lone athlete to win his event at both the Stayton Twilight Meet on Friday and a three-team Tri-Valley Conference meet earlier in the season at Estacada High School.

Trojans win five individual events at twilight meet
published: 5/9/2012 1:11:22 PM

MOUNT ANGEL — The Trojans hosted the Tri-River Conference Twilight Meet on Friday evening and posted five individual event wins in the final competition of the season before the district meet begins on Friday.

Davidson wins discus at twilight meet in Mount Angel
published: 5/9/2012 1:14:24 PM

MOUNT ANGEL — Senior Sara Davidson won the Bucks’ lone event at the Tri-River Conference Twilight Meet on Thursday at Kennedy High School. Davidson took first place in the discus with a throw of 108-1.

Cook, Hobson and Guzman have big performances at Grant
published: 5/9/2012 1:16:06 PM

PORTLAND — Junior Monica Cook led the Bulldogs with a pair of second-place finishes at the eight-team Cotton Invite on Friday afternoon at Grant High School in Portland.

Kennedy shuts out Regis, takes sole possession of first
published: 5/9/2012 1:22:59 PM

STAYTON — The Kennedy baseball team has attracted plenty of attention for its offensive prowess this season.  And rightfully so, with the Trojans having scored more runs than any team in the state, regardless of classification.

Determination pays off for North Marion's Stigall
published: 5/10/2012 12:06:12 AM

AURORA — Jake Stigall has sacrificed a lot, turning down countless outings with his friends and even family events, toward his ultimate goal. The North Marion High School senior lived, breathed and ate up the sport of wrestling and had dreams of one day competing at the college level.

Chhun, Herinckx and Stott win events at regular season finale
published: 5/10/2012 12:05:35 AM

SALEM — The Cougars won four individual events Thursday at Chemawa Indian School in Salem, led by a pair of victories from senior Marady Chhun.  Chhun won the 100-meter dash for the fifth time in six competitions this season in a time of 11.

Woodburn hosting boys basketball camp
published: 5/12/2012 9:53:11 AM

Woodburn boys basketball: The eighth annual Bulldogs basketball camp will be held June 18-21 at Woodburn High School for boys basketball players that will be entering grades four through nine next year.

Professional wrestling event coming to Gervais
published: 5/10/2012 12:04:37 AM

GERVAIS — West Coast Wrestling Connection is hosting a professional wrestling event as a fundraiser for the athletic department in the Gervais School District.

Kennedy hosting youth football camp
published: 5/12/2012 9:52:51 AM

MOUNT ANGEL — Kennedy will hosting its youth football camp on June 2 at the Kennedy High School football field for youths that will be entering grades five through eight.

Trojans return to the state golf tournament
published: 5/15/2012 10:10:20 AM

MOUNT ANGEL — Kennedy already has one of the top boys golf teams in the state and it could get even better next year. The Trojans earned a second consecutive trip to the Class 3A/2A/1A state golf tournament with a runner-up finish at the District 7 tournament last week at the OGA Golf Course in Woodburn.

Kennedy clinches Tri-River baseball title
published: 5/15/2012 10:13:13 AM

SALEM — The Kennedy baseball team avenged its only loss in the Tri-River Conference play this season with a 14-3 blowout of Western Mennonite on Friday afternoon in Salem.

Bulldogs win six events in regular season finale
published: 5/15/2012 10:20:35 AM

SILVERTON — The Woodburn track and field team closed out the regular season with six individual wins on Wednesday afternoon at Silverton High School. Sophomore Michael Hobson swept the 200 and 400 meters to lead the Bulldogs and remains one of the team’s frontrunners to win a district title later this week.

Azul Futbol Club holding tryouts
published: 5/15/2012 10:24:31 AM

WOODBURN — Azul Futbol Club will be holding tryouts at Nellie Muir Elementary School on Thursday and Friday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.Cost is $15. Parents must be present at tryouts and players must bring water, shin guards and cleats.

Gervais wallops Colton to secure West Valley League playoff spot
published: 5/15/2012 10:25:52 AM

GERVAIS — The Cougars wrapped up the regular season with a dominant win over Colton on Friday afternoon at Gervais High School.The Cougars defeated the Vikings 12-2 in five innings on the strength of 12 total hits.

Davidson, relay team shine at district meet
published: 5/15/2012 10:28:13 AM

PORTLAND — St. Paul senior Sara Davidson won her second consecutive district title in the discus on Friday afternoon at Portland Christian High School.

Huskies to face Scappoose in play-in round
published: 5/15/2012 10:51:25 AM

AURORA — The North Marion baseball team suffered a 6-0 loss to Madras in the regular season finale to finish in a three-way tie for third place in the Tri-Valley Conference.

Leon leads Woodburn tennis team at district tournament
published: 5/15/2012 10:53:46 AM

CORVALLIS — The Woodburn tennis team will have to wait at least another year to end an eight-year drought from the state tournament.  The Bulldogs entered the tournament with high hopes in the boys singles bracket, but sophomore Manny Leon was the only Woodburn player to advance to the quarterfinals of the district tournament last week at Timberhill Tennis Center in Corvallis.

Huskies earn 'best win of the season'
published: 5/15/2012 10:56:42 AM

AURORA — North Marion softball coach Neil Forste called it the biggest win of the Huskies’ season.  North Marion knocked off Tri-Valley Conference champion Madras 8-2 on Friday afternoon at North Marion High School to put the Huskies (15-10 overall, 8-7 TVC) in a tie for third place in the standings.

Kennedy freshman breaks school hurdles record
published: 5/16/2012 12:16:58 AM

JUNCTION CITY — Kennedy freshman Amelia Grosjacques’ record-setting performance in the 100-meter hurdles was one of several highlights for the Trojans at the Tri-River Conference district meet on Friday and Saturday at Junction City High School.

Making a state-ment: Stott qualifies for state meet in two events
published: 5/15/2012 11:03:47 AM

DAYTON — Last year, Beverlyn Stott missed qualifying for the state meet in both of her individual events. She made it her goal not to suffer the same fate two years in a row.

Pomeroy finishes 16th at state golf tournament
published: 5/16/2012 12:06:02 PM

BANKS — Kennedy junior Doug Pomeroy shot the exact same score — and finished in the exact same place — as he did at the state golf tournament a year ago.



Police/Safety

May 16 police reports
published: 5/15/2012 4:02:03 PM

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Woodburn Independent publishes the names of people arrested based on information from city and county police logs.Hours listed represent the times crimes were reported to police.

5-2 Police Reports
published: 5/2/2012 10:29:52 AM

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Woodburn Independent publishes the names of people arrested based on information from city and county police logs. Hours listed represent the times crimes were reported to police.

5-9 Police Reports
published: 5/8/2012 9:19:15 AM

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Woodburn Independent publishes the names of people arrested based on information from city and county police logs. Hours listed represent the times crimes were reported to police.



Opinion

Loss of jobs inevitable at WSD; now is time to be heard
published: 5/8/2012 10:07:43 AM

There is a lot of uncertainty going through Mid-Willamette Valley schools and city government as budgets get down to crunch time. We have already seen 13 people lose their jobs with the city of Woodburn, with dwindling dollars hitting the city’s coffers, due, in large part, to the lack of new construction.



Obituaries

Obituary for Richard Wayne Sterrenberg
published: 5/8/2012 9:53:51 AM

Sterrenberg Richard Wayne Sterrenberg, 85, formerly of Woodburn, died May 4, 2012. He was born Oct. 2, 1926 in Thompson, Iowa to William and Mildred Sterrenberg.

Death notice for Pearl Kosta
published: 5/8/2012 9:54:56 AM

Pearl Kosta, 82, of Butteville, died May 1, 2012. She was born May 4, 1929 to Karl Dewey Lett and Ida Judith Bundy in Portland. There will be a celebration of life on May 19 at 1 p.

Death notice for Iva Jean “Jeannie” Behm
published: 5/8/2012 9:55:51 AM

Iva Jean “Jeannie” Behm, 77, of Woodburn, died May 3, 2012. She was born July 6, 1934 in Inavale, Neb. At her request, there will be no funeral or memorial service.

Obituary for John Munson
published: 5/8/2012 9:58:15 AM

John Munson, 88, of Woodburn, died April 29, 2012. He was born in Oct. 3, 1923 to Edwin and Clara (Goodyear) Oshkenaniew near Neopit, Wis. on the Menominee Indian Reservation.

Obituary for Sharon Elaine Kennedy
published: 5/2/2012 10:05:23 AM

Sharon Elaine Kennedy, 66, of Hubbard, died April 25, 2012. She was born Aug. 3, 1945 in Hubbard to Jesse and Arla (Rivenes) Owre. She was raised in Hubbard, attending Broadacres Grade School.

Obituary for JR John Gendhar
published: 5/2/2012 10:03:24 AM

JR John Gendhar, 40, of Hubbard, died April 16, 2012. He was born Oct. 21, 1971 in Fort Riley, Kan., to Michael and Soncha (Oh) Gendhar. He attended North Marion High School and graduated in 1990.

Death notice for Bradley Paul Case
published: 5/2/2012 10:06:37 AM

Bradley Paul Case, 57, of Woodburn, died April 23, 2012. He was born Jan. 11, 1955. A celebration of life will be held May 5 at 2 p.m. at Mid Valley Community Church, located at 591 Gatch St.

Obituary for Estelle Rardin
published: 5/2/2012 10:08:46 AM

Estelle Rardin, 99, of Woodburn, died April 28, 2012. She was born Oct. 9, 1912 in Poland to Feliks and Viola (Gorskia) Kaczorek. She married Jack Rardin in 1949 in Queens, N.

Obituary for Talitha Neomi Nusom
published: 5/2/2012 10:12:44 AM

Talitha Neomi Nusom, 85, formerly of Gervais, died April 27, 2012. She was born Dec. 22, 1926 in Perrydale to Jack and Sophie (Wildt) Magel. She spent her last year at Dallas Retirement Village.

Harold John Wolfer
published: 5/16/2012 11:29:11 AM

Harold John Wolfer, 92, of Woodburn, died May 3, 2012, surrounded by his family. He was born March 6, 1920, to Edwin and Myrtle (Jordan) Wolfer.He grew up in Hubbard and was a descendent of the Aurora Colony.

Jacqueline Catherine (Burns) Quint
published: 5/16/2012 11:30:56 AM

Jacqueline Catherine (Burns) Quint, 84, of Cape Falcon, died May 1, 2012, with family and friends at her side.She was born Feb. 2, 1928 in Cook County, Chicago, Ill.

Richard Wayne Sterrenberg
published: 5/16/2012 11:33:18 AM

Richard Wayne Sterrenberg, 85, formerly of Woodburn, died May 4, 2012 in Broken Arrow, Okla. He was born Oct. 2, 1926 in Thompson, Iowa to William and Mildred Sterrenberg.

Lilian Virginia Blissenbach
published: 5/16/2012 11:35:30 AM

Lilian Virginia Blissenbach, 95, died on May 3, 2012, at a local hospital.She was born Aug. 28, 1916, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Andrew and Elizabeth (Fitzgerald) Heinz.

Michael Conlon
published: 5/16/2012 11:37:20 AM

Michael A. Conlon, 60, of Woodburn, died May 12, 2012. He was born July 25, 1951, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Helen Barton.Mike enjoyed fishing and hunting.

Pebble Brusven
published: 5/16/2012 11:41:37 AM

Pebble Ilene Brusven, 89, died on May 14, 2012, at her residence in Woodburn.Pebble was born April 24, 1923 in Silverton to Fred and Ella (Shane) Hagenauer.



News Briefs

There are many ways to support Relay event
published: 5/16/2012 11:14:26 AM

There are many ways to support Relay For Life, held this year in Woodburn on June 23.* Relay For Life is hosting a raffle for an iPod Touch 32GB and fourth generation.

Church celebrates 45 years
published: 5/16/2012 11:15:24 AM

Hope Lutheran Church is celebrating its 45th anniversary this Sunday. At 9:15 a.m. will be a discussion on how the church got started. A 10:30 a.m. service will follow, featuring guest speaker Rev.

Middle schools host first fun run June 2
published: 5/16/2012 11:55:14 AM

WOODBURN — The first-ever Woodburn run/walk to benefit middle school students will be June 2 at Valor Middle School.The fun run/walk starts at 8:30 a.m.

Mayor's Prayer Breakfast set for May 22
published: 5/16/2012 12:00:25 PM

Tickets are still on sale for the Mayor's Prayer Breakfast.The prayer breakfast, featuring guest speaker Gerry Frank, will be Tuesday, May 22 from 7:30 to 9:30 a.

Gervais hosts health and safety fair this Saturday
published: 5/8/2012 9:33:15 AM

GERVAIS — The Gervais School District Health and Safety Fair is May 12. Anyone is welcome to visit Gervais High School, 300 E. Douglas Ave., from 9 a.

Stamping Out Hunger in Woodburn
published: 5/8/2012 10:13:29 AM

WOODBURN — Letter carries throughout Woodburn will be collecting nonperishable food donations left by mailboxes on May 12 as part of the annual Stamping Out Hunger campaign.

Relay volunteers collecting canned food
published: 5/8/2012 10:14:21 AM

Woodburn Area Relay For Life volunteers are collecting canned tuna or other canned foods to weigh down luminaria bags. The canned food will then be donated to the A.



Local News

Board says English-only teachers aren’t targeted for layoffs
published: 5/9/2012 9:31:09 AM

WOODBURN — At a crowded meeting Thursday night, the Woodburn School Board denied that English-only teachers were being targeted for layoffs. Nearly 100 people filed into the conference room at the district office, with many questioning whether monolingual teachers would be cut.

Catching a new perspective on life
published: 5/9/2012 3:56:05 PM

When life threw Mac Martin a curveball, the Gervais senior decided not to just watch it go by. Last summer, Mac was a healthy, 17-year-old student-athlete, working for Service Master cleaning schools when he noticed he was having issues breathing.

Vandals hit NMHS
published: 5/8/2012 10:10:14 AM

AURORA — North Marion High School was hit with more than $3,000 worth of damage early Monday morning and is soliciting the public’s help in finding the culprits.

MCSO reports on results of drug turn-in event
published: 5/8/2012 9:41:19 AM

Many residents of Marion County took advantage of a law enforcement agency-sponsored prescription drug turn-in event on April 28. In partnership with the Federal Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), law enforcement agencies from throughout the Willamette Valley participated in the event.

Gervais investigates bringing North Marion model to the district
published: 5/8/2012 9:43:46 AM

GERVAIS — The Gervais School Board is set to decide in June on whether to reconfigure the district to one campus for the 2013-14 school year. The proposal was brought forward a few weeks ago and the board sought public input at a meeting last Wednesday.

WPD responds to Friday bomb threat at high school
published: 5/2/2012 10:21:18 AM

WOODBURN — A bomb threat at Woodburn High School put officials on high alert Friday morning. According to Det. Rick Puente of the Woodburn Police Department, a student found a note in one of the bathrooms at the Academy of International Studies.

Street sweeping schedule aligning with Allied Waste
published: 5/1/2012 9:01:15 AM

WOODBURN — The city of Woodburn Public Works Department has been through some recent budgetary reductions which affects cleaning services to the city streets.

Sheriff recognizes Mount Angel boy’s efforts
published: 5/1/2012 2:28:07 PM

MOUNT ANGEL — Marion County Sheriff Jason Myers honored a second-grader during a school assembly on Friday for his quick thinking in a case involving a Woodburn man.

New emission requirements shouldn’t impact Covanta plant
published: 5/1/2012 2:31:32 PM

BROOKS — A garbage burner that produces electricity along Interstate 5 in Brooks must meet new and stricter emissions requirements as it renews its air pollution permit.

Railroad, city team up on downtown crossing project
published: 5/1/2012 2:35:28 PM

WOODBURN — No doubt it was a bit of a hassle for those going to and from the downtown Woodburn area, but there was a good reason for the closure of Lincoln Street for four days last week.

Hubbard, Woodburn on the lookout for noxious weeds
published: 5/1/2012 2:38:21 PM

Don’t let weeds get you in trouble. The city governments of Hubbard and Woodburn are serious about keeping noxious weeds from getting out of control, and in both cities the policy kicked in as of May 1.

ODOT talks to Hubbard residents about Highway 99E work
published: 5/1/2012 2:52:24 PM

HUBBARD?— About 40 citizens visited Hubbard City Hall last Wednesday evening for an Oregon Department of Transportation “open house” on proposed Highway 99E safety and efficiency improvements.

Gervais School District seeks input from public
published: 5/1/2012 2:58:03 PM

GERVAIS — While many districts are facing drastic budget cuts, Gervais School District has planned ahead for the extreme. The only cuts the district is planning at this point is eliminating 4.

Interchange project will be ‘disruptive’
published: 5/2/2012 12:17:10 PM

WOODBURN — As the construction kickoff date for the long-awaited Interstate 5 interchange project approaches, city leaders appear to be experiencing a case of the jitters.

Overcoming obstacles: On her own at 16
published: 5/4/2012 9:31:14 AM

Growing up in Sinaloa, Mexico, Beatriz Guerrero always knew she had something special that none of her siblings had: U.S. citizenship. Guerrero was born in Portland while her father was briefly employed in the area but spent her childhood in Mexico.

Police warn of recent door-to-door scams
published: 5/8/2012 9:13:48 AM

WOODBURN — The Woodburn Police Department (WPD) is warning area residents to be careful about purchasing goods from door-to-door salespeople in the wake of an alleged scam reported by a Woodburn couple.

Woodburn's Weed and Seed program to be cut
published: 5/8/2012 9:16:15 AM

WOODBURN — It might have a funny name, but Woodburn’s “Weed and Seed Program” offered many positive benefits that will soon be going away. For several years, Weed and Seed — a nationwide campaign sponsored by the U.

Thieves hit Hillyer’s over the weekend
published: 5/2/2012 10:45:36 AM

WOODBURN — It was a busy weekend at Hillyer’s Mid-City Ford dealership in Woodburn — but unfortunately, it was not the type of activity a business wants.

Mayor's Prayer Breakfast slated for May 22
published: 5/1/2012 9:38:18 AM

WOODBURN — The Woodburn Kiwanis Club presents the annual Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast on May 22 at Woodburn Health Center, featuring guest speaker Gerry Frank.

A look into the future: Woodburn's interchange design
published: 5/8/2012 8:52:21 AM

WOODBURN — Imagine rolling hills stretching across the horizon. That is what Woodburn’s Aesthetic Advisory Panel for the Interstate 5 Interchange Project wants motorists to envision two or three years from now as they roll through the newly rebuilt Woodburn interchange.

Mural decision slated for June 25 meeting
published: 5/16/2012 11:26:44 AM

WOODBURN — The process has been slow, but the city of Woodburn appears to be on the verge of approving some type of ordinance that would allow public murals to go up in specific areas.

Woodburn looks at eliminating six administrators
published: 5/16/2012 11:49:50 AM

WOODBURN — The only proposed employee layoffs from this year’s budget cuts at the Woodburn School District will be six administrators, but some programs could also be eliminated or dramatically changed.

Company Stores donating giant billboard for a day
published: 5/16/2012 11:43:13 AM

WOODBURN — The huge, eye-catching billboard at the Woodburn Company Stores (WCS) usually features sales or displays information on upcoming events. It lets motorists on Interstate 5 know what goods are being offered at the popular mall complex.

Gervais debates fate of old City Hall
published: 5/16/2012 11:44:29 AM

GERVAIS — What should the city of Gervais do with the building formerly used as its City Hall?That is the question before the Gervais City Council now that the city has moved into its new, modern City Hall.

Police nab suspects in school vandalism
published: 5/15/2012 4:07:33 PM

HUBBARD — A citizen’s tip has resulted in the arrest of two Canby men suspected of being the ones responsible for a late night “joy ride” that resulted in more than $10,000 of damage to ballfields at North Marion High School.

Grass seed business stays ‘green’ despite downturn
published: 5/16/2012 11:10:14 AM

HUBBARD — Tom DeArmond Jr. is one of the owners of Oregon Turf & Tree Farms, a family business in Hubbard that has been involved in the grass seed market since the 1940s.

Look for two new faces at West Coast Bank
published: 5/16/2012 11:12:14 AM

You’ll see two new faces when you visit West Coast Bank’s west branch.Stop in and say “hi” to Deborah Wade, the new branch manager, and bank teller Evelina Kosovan.

Woodburn High School evacuated as four-alarm fire torches north side
published: 5/15/2012 3:29:59 PM

WOODBURN — A fast-spreading fire engulfed part of Woodburn High School on Friday morning. The initial fire call came in at 9:20 a.m., and the Woodburn Fire District swiftly responded to the scene.

WHS seniors will head back to class Monday, May 21
published: 5/15/2012 3:35:47 PM

WOODBURN — With smoke and water damage and uncertainty about all the impacts of the damage Woodburn High School suffered in Friday’s fire, the school district has decided to cancel classes for the entire week of May 14-18.

In the wake of tragedy, community lends support
published: 5/15/2012 3:44:06 PM

WOODBURN — Since the flames first enveloped part of Woodburn High School, the district staff and students have seen nothing short of enthusiastic support from the community.

Three Woodburn High School teenagers charged with starting fire
published: 5/15/2012 3:52:18 PM

WOODBURN — With a portion of Woodburn High School in ruins after a devastating fire on Friday morning, investigators began the process of sifting through the ashes to determine the source of the blaze.



Hometown

Church donates over $4,000 to A.W.A.R.E. Food Bank
published: 5/8/2012 9:26:28 AM

WOODBURN?— Woodburn United Methodist Church presented a check for $4,120 to the A.W.A.R.E. Food Bank from funds raised with its Hunger Bites campaign. That money will buy approximately 20,200 pounds of food, or over 10 tons.

Taylor Motorcycles owner still plugging away at 80 years young
published: 5/8/2012 9:30:58 AM

WOODBURN — John Taylor has helped a lot of folks ride off into the sunset. But somehow, he has never quite managed to join them. Life is admittedly a little bit slower for the owner of Taylor Motorcycles, who will celebrate his 80th birthday next week.

End of an era? Hubbard church to close after 119 years
published: 5/1/2012 9:12:21 AM

Hubbard United Church of Christ has been active in Hubbard for more than 100 years, but its time in the community may be winding down. “We will have to close the church,” said Susan Zwemke, the church moderator.



Free Access

Fire at Woodburn High School
published: 5/11/2012 10:36:28 AM

Woodburn High School was evacuated around 9:45 a.m. Friday after a fire was reported coming from the woodworking/metal shop.All staff and students were successfully evacuated, while firefighters from Woodburn, Hubbard and surrounding areas fought the flames.

Four-alarm fire engulfs Woodburn High School
published: 5/11/2012 1:10:01 PM

UPDATE: Woodburn police detectives arrested three 15-year-olds, students of WHS, for arson, reckless burning and reckless endangering. The juveniles were transported to the Marion County Juvenile Detention Center.

Update: Police call high school fire arson, three teens arrested
published: 5/11/2012 10:46:06 PM

Updated: Three 15-year-old Woodburn High School students have been charged tonight in connection with the four-alarm fire that destroyed part of the high school and cancelled classes indefinitely.

Woodburn Proud will collect donations in aftermath of fire at Woodburn High School
published: 5/12/2012 8:22:10 AM

Woodburn Proud is collecting donations to benefit Woodburn High School in the aftermath of the Friday morning fire that destroyed part of the main campus.

How you can help students in the aftermath of the high school blaze
published: 5/15/2012 3:54:13 PM

E-mail your name, phone number and e-mail address to Kelly Howard at woodburnproud@gmail.com. Send monetary donations, with checks payable to Woodburn Proud, Inc.

District Music Fest is now slated for May 22
published: 5/16/2012 3:16:09 PM

The 26th annual Woodburn District Music Festival has been rescheduled for next Tuesday, May 22 at 7 p.m.The new location is French Prairie Middle School.

Administrative team updates board on high school
published: 5/16/2012 4:05:54 PM

WOODBURN — The Woodburn School Board met in an emergency session on Tuesday night to discuss fire updates.Chuck Ransom, principal of Academy of International Studies, told the board that the good news is that Woodburn High School has already completed the minimum requirement for student contact hours.

Photos inside Woodburn High School after the blaze
published: 5/16/2012 7:09:56 PM

Five days after a fire ripped through part of Woodburn High School, Woodburn Independent reporter Lindsay Keefer got a sneak peek into the facility. While most of the building will be up and running again before too long, the cleanup requires a lot of work.



Features

Free to roam
published: 5/16/2012 10:53:10 AM

WOODBURN — For many people who live in The Estates, the golf cart is a convenient mode of getting around the golf course.But for John Cox, it’s his last ticket to independence.



Education

Lions Club awards three scholarships
published: 5/16/2012 10:57:46 AM

MOUNT ANGEL — The Mount Angel Lions Club has awarded scholarships to three John F. Kennedy High School students.The $1,000 scholarships are going to Cirra Halter and Kaylee Aman and the $500 scholarship goes to Bridget Donohue.

Running with a purpose
published: 5/16/2012 11:02:54 AM

AURORA — The Endurance Scholarship is helping another North Marion High School senior make strides in her college career.Jonathan Barrett, an English teacher at North Marion High School, started the $2,500 scholarship program last year when he ran the 50-mile Capitol Peak Ultra Marathon in Olympia, Wash.

Mr. JFK crowned at April 26 event
published: 5/16/2012 10:21:38 AM

Austin Postma was selected as Mr. JFK at the annual pageant presented by the Kennedy High Student Council.Mr. JFK is a talent and variety show with the fundraising proceeds going to Doernbecher Children’s Hospital.

North Marion makes good showing at jazz festival
published: 5/16/2012 10:24:32 AM

The North Marion Jazz Band just returned from a successful four day trip to the Reno Jazz Festival, held at University of Nevada-Reno.Over 300 bands from around the world competed, and participated in clinics and jam sessions at this international festival.

Heritage celebrates Russian bilingual program
published: 5/16/2012 10:41:31 AM

WOODBURN — Heritage Elementary School put on its third annual Russian Spring Festival on Friday for a crowd of parents and community members.The event is a way to illustrate the many things students learn in the Russian language classrooms that are taught from kindergarten through fifth grade.

Ten Woodburn students receive ECMC Foundation Scholarships
published: 5/16/2012 10:43:07 AM

WOODBURN — The following Woodburn High School seniors have been awarded scholarships from the Educational Credit Management Corporation in the amount of $6,000.

Overcoming obstacles: Rising above the past and setting goals for the future
published: 5/16/2012 11:53:45 AM

If it takes a village to raise a child, then Mount Angel has done a good job with Cirra Halter.The senior at John F. Kennedy High School has gone from nearly failing in school to becoming a valedictorian.

North Marion goes 'Back to the Future' for May Day
published: 5/8/2012 9:06:48 AM

AURORA?— The 62nd annual May Day celebration at North Marion High School was held on Friday, with this year’s theme centered on “Back to the Future” — referring to the movie as well as paying tribute to the past and the future of North Marion.

Art from the heart
published: 5/1/2012 9:17:20 AM

Woodburn Arts and Communications Academy held its annual International Baccalaureate Art Show at the Woodburn Art Center on Thursday, drawing in crowds to view 21 students’ work of the past two years.

Gervais student heading to state Spelling Bee
published: 5/1/2012 9:23:27 AM

GERVAIS — Daryel Reagan is representing Marion County in the Oregon Spelling Bee this year. Yes, that’s D-A-R-Y-E-L. The eighth-grader at Gervais Middle School boasts that he doesn’t study the dictionary or flash cards, but just can imagine words in his head.

Day of the Child aims to connect school to families
published: 5/1/2012 9:30:14 AM

WOODBURN — The 17th annual Día del Niño in Woodburn was a success, with hundreds of families enjoying entertainment, refreshments and learning opportunities.

First ever ‘Musical in a Day’ planned for Saturday
published: 5/8/2012 9:11:32 AM

WOODBURN — A program unlike any done before is descending on the Woodburn High School lectorium this weekend. The Musical in a Day, the brain child of music teacher GB Burgin and drama teacher Katie Stevenson, is an arts fundraiser open to all Woodburn Arts and Communications Academy students.

Man of Valor: Vergara named state middle school principal of the year
published: 5/2/2012 9:55:21 AM

WOODBURN — Just a few years ago, Valor Middle School was in serious academic trouble. In 2002, only 8 percent of its students were considered proficient in writing, 25 percent in reading and 29 percent in math.


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