Letters to the Editor
2-3 Letters to the Editor
published: 2/2/2010 11:51:12 AM
Start here, governor To the editor:In a front page article in the Statesman Journal, dated Jan. 28, the governor said the following: “If you want to position Oregon for long-term success and economic stability, we must put our differences aside and come together to build a future for our citizens and our business.
2-10 Letters to the Editor
published: 2/9/2010 11:44:33 AM
Front Street project was needed, but there are major design flaws To the editor:In the Jan. 30 edition of the Woodburn Independent, the front page article reflected the Front Street Project as being the “end of the beginning” of the city’s urban renewal program.
2-13 Letters to the Editor
published: 2/12/2010 3:01:02 PM
LaBare out of touch with reality To the editor:To be called stupid, dumb and not knowing the facts is one thing, but being called un-American is another.
2-17 Letters to the Editor
published: 2/16/2010 11:10:53 AM
The Woodburn School District needs to implement ideas outside the conventional box To the editor:I wrote a letter to the editor in January of 2009 that raised a few eyebrows as the words of “change and hope” were invading and saturating the national media.
2-20 Letters to the Editor
published: 2/22/2010 10:47:17 AM
Canby Utility committed to clean water To the Editor:A letter in the Jan. 27 edition of the Canby Herald asked the Canby Utility Board for information about Molalla River flows and our customers’ water consumption.
2-24 Letters to the Editor
published: 2/23/2010 9:58:29 AM
Eagle Scout thanks those who helped on project To the editor:I would like to thank all of those who supported the effort to complete my Eagle Scout project at St.
Military
Lord High school graduate completes basic training
published: 2/16/2010 9:45:30 AM
LAWTON, OKLA. — Army Pvt. Benjamin T. Clark has graduated from Basic Combat Training at Fort Sill, Lawton, Okla.During the nine weeks of training, the soldier studied the Army mission and received instruction and training exercises in drill and ceremonies, Army history, core values and traditions, military courtesy, military justice, physical fitness, first aid, rifle marksmanship, weapons use, map reading and land navigation, foot marches, armed and unarmed combat and field maneuvers and tactics.
Engagements
Appledoorn, Hodges engaged
published: 2/23/2010 10:14:04 AM
Megan Appledoorn, daughter of Mark and Tammy Appledoorn of Brooks, and Matthew Hodges, son of Randall and Patricia Hodges of Lake Oswego, are delighted to announce their engagement.
Club News
Girls State applications being accepted
published: 2/16/2010 9:38:43 AM
Auxiliary unit to hand out flags at assembly AURORA — Aurora Unit No. 110 will focus on a patriotic assembly for the second grade at North Marion Primary School Feb.
Church News
Little Lambs registration ongoing
published: 2/16/2010 9:43:49 AM
Ash Wednesday at Immanuel WOODBURN — All are welcome to Immanuel’s Ash Wednesday worship service which will be held at 7 p.m. Feb. 17. Ash Wednesday begins the season of Lent with a service in which ashes are placed on the forehead of those who come forward, symbolizing sin, mortality and dependence on God.
Shalom Prayer Center offers retreats, more
published: 2/9/2010 10:44:48 AM
Monthly Book Talk on Feb. 20 MT. ANGEL — All book lovers are invited to Book Talk each month at Shalom Prayer Center. Led by Elin Stetz, the next Book Talk session will be held from 9:30 a.
Births
2-10 Birth announcements
published: 2/9/2010 11:04:22 AM
Usrey William Lerow Usrey, son of Heather and Jerry Usrey of Woodburn, was born at 12:44 a.m. Jan. 20 at Silverton Hospital. At birth, he was 4 pounds, 12 ¼ ounces and was 18 inches long.
2-24 Birth Announcements
published: 2/23/2010 10:09:42 AM
Emch Brennan Davis Emch, son of Heidi and David Emch, formally of Molalla and now of Sherwood, was born at 5:28 a.m. Jan. 7 at Providence Willamette Falls Medical Center in Oregon City.
College Update
Woodburn resident makes dean’s list
published: 2/16/2010 9:47:47 AM
ANDERSON, IND. — Matthew Jason Danskey of Woodburn was named on the Anderson University dean’s list for the fall semester.Anderson University is located in Anderson, Ind.
Briefs
Can drive March 6
published: 2/16/2010 9:49:31 AM
WOODBURN — Valor Middle School’s 8th grade students will be having a can and bottle drive to raise money for their 8th grade celebration. The drive will be held March 6 from 9 a.
JFK to hold benefit dinner
published: 2/9/2010 11:09:21 AM
MT. ANGEL — Join John F. Kennedy High School for its Valentine Benefit Dinner on Feb. 12 at 6 p.m.The event is to raise money for the local Habitat for Humanity chapter.
WHS grad party needs donations
published: 2/9/2010 10:58:56 AM
WOODBURN — Help make Woodburn High School’s Graduation Night Celebration a night to remember for this year’s departing seniors.June 4, the seniors will celebrate at the Salem Kroc Center for an alcohol and drug free all-night gala of activities, games and food.
Sports
Huskies prevail over Molalla, lock up a state-playoff berth
published: 2/15/2010 11:54:14 AM
MOLALLA — The North Marion boys basketball team can check one thing off of its list of goals for the season.With Tuesday's 55-38 win over Molalla at Molalla High School, North Marion has clinched its first state-playoff berth since 2006.
Before the Glory
published: 2/15/2010 12:12:21 PM
In the fall of 1944, the talk throughout Woodburn was centered around World War II — the casualties, the war chest quota, letters from local servicemen, speculation of victory and goodwill efforts to supply U.
Cougars nab first league win in three years
published: 2/9/2010 1:57:27 PM
GERVAIS — The Gervais boys basketball team finally saw its hard work pay off with a win in the West Valley League. The Cougars defeated Colton, 38-26, on Feb.
Five Trojans earn all-state recognition
published: 2/9/2010 1:59:36 PM
MT. ANGEL — Five Kennedy football players received all-state recognition for their performances this past season in guiding the Trojans to the Class 2A state championship game.
Woodburn splits pair of league games at home
published: 2/9/2010 2:04:23 PM
WOODBURN — Things are beginning to look up for the Woodburn boys basketball team. After suffering a heartbreaking one-point loss to South Albany on Jan.
Bucks dominate longtime rivals
published: 2/9/2010 2:06:06 PM
PERRYDALE — The St. Paul boys basketball team overcame a ragged start to defeat rival Perrydale, 60-37, on Friday night at Perrydale High School. “It started out like a true rivalry game,” said Bucks coach Vince Drago.
Huskies regain control of Capital Conference lead
published: 2/9/2010 2:10:57 PM
TURNER — There were questions about how the North Marion boys basketball team would respond to its first league loss of the season, a highly disappointing defeat at the hands of Estacada.
North Marion falls short of second straight dual title
published: 2/9/2010 2:17:58 PM
AURORA — It was as dejected as the North Marion wrestling team has felt this season. The Huskies aimed for back-to-back Capital Conference dual meet championships but came up short to a much more determined Cascade squad, 48-22, last Thursday at North Marion High School.
Unlucky No. 7: Huskies drop first league game
published: 2/5/2010 5:12:34 PM
AURORA — For the first six games of the Capital Conference season, the North Marion boys basketball team had owned the fourth quarter. However, on Tuesday night at North Marion High School, the fourth quarter belonged to the Estacada Rangers.
North Marion girls win on a buzzer beater
published: 2/5/2010 5:18:08 PM
AURORA — Wins have been hard to come by this year for the North Marion girls basketball team, but they don’t come any sweeter than Tuesday’s victory over Estacada.
North Marion swimmers register a clean sweep
published: 2/2/2010 2:53:30 PM
WOODBURN — The North Marion boys swim team swept every event en route to a three-way meet victory last Tuesday at the Woodburn Aquatic Center.The Huskies scored 144 points, while Blanchet was second (76) and Cascade was third (65).
Wrestlers one win away from league dual title
published: 2/2/2010 2:54:34 PM
ESTACADA — In the first of back-to-back tests to determine the Capital Conference dual championship, the North Marion wrestling team was up to task. The Huskies earned crucial victories at several key positions in the lineup to score a 44-30 victory over Estacada on Thursday at Estacada High School.
Cougars split duals at league three-way
published: 2/2/2010 2:56:35 PM
COLTON — Clayton Burtis showed why he’s the No. 1 ranked wrestler in the state at the 189-pound weight class at the 3A classification. The Colton senior pinned Gervais sophomore Mac Martin in just 13 seconds to help lead the Vikings to a 42-18 dual win on Thursday at Colton High School.
Short-handed Huskies fall to Gladstone
published: 2/2/2010 3:00:00 PM
AURORA — With North Marion’s top two players sidelined with injuries, the Huskies didn’t stand much chance on Friday night at North Marion High School.
Six St. Paul football players earn first-team all-state honors
published: 2/2/2010 3:05:42 PM
ST. PAUL — Honors continue to roll in for the state champion St. Paul football team. Six members of the undefeated Bucks squad were first-team all-state selections, while senior Ryan Pierson was named state player of the year, and Tony Smith was named coach of the year.
Pierson named best in state
published: 2/2/2010 3:10:38 PM
ST. PAUL — Locally, and even around the state, Ryan Pierson has been recognized as the focal point of the Bucks’ high-octane offense, which carried the St.
Woodburn girls remain winless
published: 2/16/2010 9:53:28 AM
WOODBURN — The Woodburn girls basketball team is still looking for its first league win of the year, after suffering a 55-42 loss to Silverton last Wednesday.
NM heads to districts with title shot
published: 2/16/2010 9:55:49 AM
GLADSTONE — With the North Marion wrestling team given seven forfeits, the league dual finale was pretty much decided beforehand. The Huskies rolled to a 60-24 victory over Gladstone on Thursday at Gladstone High School before the Capital Conference district tournament this weekend.
Huskies one win away from top seed
published: 2/16/2010 9:58:47 AM
AURORA — The march toward a Capital Conference title is just one win away for the North Marion boys basketball team after Friday’s 51-48 over La Salle.
Wicks qualifies for state in four events
published: 2/16/2010 10:17:59 AM
CORVALLIS — The Mid-Willamette Conference district swim meet turned into Kyle Wicks’ personal arena last weekend as the Woodburn swimmer qualified for the Class 5A state meet in two relays, 100 butterfly and 100 breaststroke.
Avgi’s 28 points lift ‘Dogs
published: 2/16/2010 10:19:47 AM
WOODBURN — The Woodburn boys basketball team picked up a crucial victory Friday against Dallas, 53-48. The win kept the Bulldogs within striking distance of the fourth and final playoff spot out of the Mid-Willamette Conference.
Honoring dominance
published: 2/16/2010 11:13:58 PM
GERVAIS — Former Gervais basketball coach Dick Patzer remembers losing a preseason, non-league game at Gervais High School, at some point in the mid-1980s.
Offensive woes stymie Lady Bucks
published: 2/19/2010 4:08:28 PM
By B. Scott AndersonFor the IndependentPERRYDALE — The St. Paul High School girls basketball team shot 18 percent from the field Wednesday and suffered a 34-21 first-round Casco League district tournament loss at Perrydale.
North Marion swimmers rally to runner-up finish at district meet
published: 2/19/2010 4:10:57 PM
LA GRANDE — All season long, the North Marion boys swim team has prided itself on its depth and quality swimmers at the top. And the Huskies proved that once again at the 4A/3A/2A/1A Special District 2 meet on Feb.
New coach set for the challenge of Woodburn softball
published: 2/19/2010 4:14:47 PM
WOODBURN — As a softball player, Rebecca Polak has seen all spectrums of success. She’s been a part of teams that have won championships, and teams, like during her senior year at Lakeridge High School, that didn’t win a single game.
Huskies clinch Capital Conference title
published: 2/19/2010 4:19:58 PM
AURORA — Everybody on the North Marion boys basketball team rebounds, defends and plays their role. That’s the philosophy the team has adapted this season, and everybody shares in the success of the Huskies first league championship since 2006.
Woodburn loses game, top player
published: 2/23/2010 11:33:55 AM
WOODBURN — The Woodburn boys basketball team was well on its way to an upset win over Crescent Valley on Friday night, before tragedy happened. After making a play to the basket and getting fouled, junior Andy Avgi landed awkwardly and injured his ankle.
Lady Huskies drop game to Stayton
published: 2/23/2010 11:38:49 AM
AURORA — “We let that one get away,” said North Marion girls basketball coach Dennis Melcher, after the Huskies’ 24-22 loss to Stayton on Feb. 18 at North Marion High School.
Saucedo earns second trip to state
published: 2/23/2010 11:44:39 AM
ALBANY — After a one-year hiatus, Woodburn senior Jorge Saucedo is headed back to the Class 5A state wrestling tournament. The 112-pounder wrestled two of the closest matches at the entire Mid-Willamette Conference district tournament, held Friday and Saturday at West Albany High School.
Wicks medals in four events at state meet
published: 2/23/2010 11:48:36 AM
GRESHAM — Kyle Wicks continues to make his mark in the Woodburn High School record books. The junior swimmer placed in all four of his events at the Class 5A state meet on Saturday at the Mt.
St. Paul shocks Country, steals top playoff seed
published: 2/23/2010 11:54:16 AM
MCMINNVILLE — The St. Paul boys basketball team avenged a pair of lopsided regular season losses to Country Christian with a 44-38 win over the Cougars on Saturday in the championship game of the district tournament.
Huskies send nine to state
published: 2/23/2010 11:59:52 AM
ESTACADA — It was another history-making day for the North Marion wrestling team.The Huskies earned a school-record nine state-qualifiers, including five district champions, Saturday at the Capital Conference district tournament at Estacada High School.
Bulldogs on the playoff hunt after last-second win
published: 2/24/2010 12:08:02 PM
WOODBURN — After twisting his ankle during last week’s loss to Crescent Valley, Woodburn junior Andy Avgi could only watch from the bench as the second half unfolded in the Raiders’ favor.
Huskies drop regular season finale, still capture Capital title outright
published: 2/26/2010 5:43:21 PM
GLADSTONE — The North Marion boys basketball team got a little help from Molalla on Tuesday night. The Huskies lost their regular season finale to Gladstone, 55-38, but still managed to retain the Capital Conference title outright, thanks to Molalla’s victory over Cascade.
Bulldogs force one-game playoff for final state berth
published: 2/26/2010 5:50:08 PM
ALBANY — In Woodburn’s most important game of the season, junior wing Jonaton Rios had the biggest game of his high school career.Rios scored a season-high 27 points to lead the Bulldogs to a 76-75 win over West Albany on Thursday night at West Albany High School, putting Woodburn into a one-game playoff for the league’s final seed to state.
Police/Safety
2-10 Police reports
published: 2/9/2010 1:09:57 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.
Opinion
NBC dropping the ball not showing Olympics live
published: 2/9/2010 11:46:35 AM
For the second time in eight years, the West gets to host a Winter Olympics. In 2002, Salt Lake City hosted the 19th Winter Games and Friday, Vancouver, Canada will open the 21st Winter Games.
Positives can come from lawsuit
published: 2/2/2010 11:53:30 AM
Woodburn city staff will be filing a lawsuit against the Woodburn Latin American Club this week. The club organizes the Fiesta Mexicana each year and owes the city of Woodburn over $9,000 in fees, which it knew about before last year’s event.
HCC wins battle with ODOT
published: 2/23/2010 9:55:49 AM
Recently we saw how small-town government can impact local citizens in a big way. The Hubbard City Council recently got the Oregon Department of Transportation to back off its original plans of sweeping land acquisitions that would have taken property from businesses and private citizens in order to put a sidewalk on Highway 99E.
A year after the stimulus bill, are we better off?
published: 2/22/2010 10:40:38 AM
I realize that some people are not going to like this. Oftentimes this Saturday space is dedicated to great writers offering up humorous life lessons and happenings.
Work of NM cheer squad unparalleled
published: 2/16/2010 11:08:36 AM
The North Marion High School cheerleaders have done it again. This is the fourth year in a row they have won the state title in their division. How many sports teams from the district or even the area have been that successful? Congratulations to coach Kezia Molinsky for bringing the competitive cheerleading to North Marion.
Obituaries
2-20 Obituaries
published: 2/22/2010 10:53:15 AM
Parkerson Paul Parkerson, 81, of Woodburn died Feb. 12, 2010. He was born Dec. 3, 1928 in Oklahoma.He was a truck driver for Delap Trucking.He is survived by his wife Martha Reed-Parkerson of Woodburn; daughters Linda Brown of Newport, Paula Kresse and Jackie Arnold of Aumsville, Julie McKinney of Woodburn and Kathy Burland of Silverton; and brother Dale Baker of Woodburn.
2-24 Obituaries
published: 2/23/2010 10:38:11 AM
Payne Lillian Jane Payne, 88, of Woodburn, died Feb. 19, 2010. She was born June 30, 1921 to William and Eva Hillhouse in La Grande. She married Frank “Scott” Payne in La Grande in September of 1942.
2-3 Obituaries
published: 2/2/2010 11:07:50 AM
Cutsforth Norma J. Cutsforth, 86, of Gervais, died Jan. 29, 2010. She was born Aug. 15, 1923 in Portland. She was the owner of the Gervais Food Market.
1-30 Obituaries
published: 2/2/2010 11:11:06 AM
Hunt Marguerite Opal (Gordon) Hunt, 89, of Woodburn, died Jan. 22, 2010. She was born June 11, 1920 in Nickerson, Kansas to Earl and Daisy Gordon. She married Elvis D.
2-10 Obituaries
published: 2/9/2010 1:07:22 PM
Grim Bessie Lee Grim, 93, of Aurora, died Feb. 1, 2010. She was born Dec. 26, 1916 in Rickreall.She was a waitress at Top of the Hill restaurant. She was a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and she enjoyed sewing, needlework, pottery and painting.
News Briefs
Cesar Chavez conference March 12
published: 2/9/2010 11:57:09 AM
The Cesar E. Chavez Leadership Conference will be Friday, March 12, 2010 from 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Western Oregon University in Monmouth, celebrating 20th Anniversary of this conference.
Super Bowl weekend nets 58 DUII arrests
published: 2/9/2010 10:37:29 AM
Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers had nearly the same number of DUII arrests this year compared to last year’s Super Bowl weekend. Preliminary statistics indicate between 12:01 a.
Bomb squad called to Mt. Angel bank
published: 2/2/2010 10:44:20 AM
MT. ANGEL — A bomb squad was called to a bank in Mt. Angel on Friday.The call, which came in around 5:30 p.m., was linked to a suspicious package inside the U.
Chamber targets Fairway Drug, Arby’s
published: 2/2/2010 10:46:46 AM
WOODBURN — The Woodburn Area Chamber of Commerce’s “First Friday-Shop Local” campaign to support local chamber member businesses will be patronizing several members on Feb.
Traffic delays along Highway 99E
published: 2/5/2010 3:54:40 PM
Traffic delays are likely along Highway 99E through Hubbard and Gervais as crews begin work next week on an improvement project. Construction will continue through September as NW Natural crews work on an infrastructure improvement project that will allow the company to better serve customers in the area.
Area police ramping up patrols on Super Bowl Sunday
published: 2/5/2010 3:56:34 PM
As football fans will be celebrating Super Bowl Sunday on Feb. 7, the Woodburn Police Department (WDP) along with Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Salem Police Department, Keizer Police Department and the Oregon Department of Transportation, wants to remind individuals to use a designated driver.
Aurora police using Internet to inform
published: 2/23/2010 10:36:26 AM
AURORA — The Aurora Police Department is now posting its neighborhood crime data on the Internet where residents can view block-level information on crime in their area.
Fiesta Mexicana meeting Feb. 24 at City Hall
published: 2/23/2010 10:48:22 AM
The city of Woodburn will hold its first planning meeting for the Fiesta Mexicana on Feb. 24 at 6 p.m. at City Hall. According to Parks Director Jim Row, the plan is to begin to “solicit ideas from the community as to how the event should be run.
Woodburn Curves hosting food drive
published: 2/12/2010 2:47:05 PM
WOODBURN — Curves of Woodburn is encouraging women in the area to show their philanthropic strength by participating in the annual Curves Food Drive. And, even though donating food to families in need is its own reward, the club is offering compelling incentives for both existing and potential members who participate.
Local News
Are you smarter than a middle schooler?
published: 2/12/2010 2:54:53 PM
WOODBURN — Coming in second place may not add up to being successful, but for French Prairie Middle School’s MATHCOUNTS team, it meant hitting a new milestone.
ODOT will not have to purchase right-of-way in Hubbard sidewalk project
published: 2/16/2010 9:32:07 AM
HUBBARD — Project managers with the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) say they have come up with a way to avoid any right-of-way acquisitions on Hubbard’s Highway 99E sidewalk project.
Tops in the state — again
published: 2/16/2010 10:06:08 AM
AURORA — North Marion High School cheerleaders were “glamorous” at the Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) State Championships Saturday, winning their fourth state championship in a row for their division.
Tax credit ending soon on new homes
published: 2/16/2010 10:56:26 AM
WOODBURN — Time is running out on the government’s $8,000 tax credit to buy a home. According to Travis Newton, a Keizer mortgage broker with Sunset Mortgage, a signed offer must be complete by April 30 and the deal closed by June 30 in order to get the credit.
Gervais hopes to get sidewalk on Ivy Street
published: 2/16/2010 10:58:31 AM
GERVAIS — The city of Gervais is in talks with the railroad company about putting in a sidewalk on Ivy Avenue, between Fourth and Fifth Streets. The goal is to make the railroad crossing safer for pedestrians and give school children a better walking route.
WSD superintendent interviews to be held this week
published: 2/16/2010 11:00:34 AM
WOODBURN — The screening process is over and the Woodburn School Board is ready to interview some candidates to replace Superintendent Walt Blomberg, who is retiring in June.
Politicians praise water plan
published: 2/19/2010 3:23:50 PM
WOODBURN — Local politicians have commended a project in Woodburn that will help a group of communities deal with high arsenic levels in their drinking water.
Local business owner uses shop to help Haiti relief
published: 2/19/2010 3:27:55 PM
WOODBURN — Americans have been pouring money toward Haiti disaster relief, but a Woodburn store has found a different way to help. Garden Gallery Iron Works, a shop at Woodburn Company Stores owned by Woodburn native Don Sprague, is now selling genuine pieces of Haitian-made art.
Bomb squad called to WB twice in three days
published: 2/19/2010 3:31:02 PM
WOODBURN — A bomb squad was called to the Nuevo Amanecer apartment complex in Woodburn Friday in response to a suspicious package. The item, which had tape and exposed wires, looked like “two sticks” together, according to Woodburn Police Capt.
Second teen center worker arrested
published: 2/19/2010 3:34:16 PM
WOODBURN — Woodburn police officials on Thursday arrested Marcus Merritt, 22, of Woodburn, in connection with an incident at the Legion Park Teen Center, where Merritt worked.
Fatal accident Monday night in Woodburn
published: 2/23/2010 10:58:23 AM
WOODBURN — A woman was killed Monday evening in an automobile accident in Woodburn.Officers from Marion County Sheriff’s Office were among those to respond.
DKNY opens, gives back to community
published: 2/23/2010 11:22:57 AM
The Woodburn Company Stores welcomed a new tenant last week. DKNY opened its doors Feb. 19 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony that included store management and Mayor Kathy Figley.
Finalists meet with public
published: 2/23/2010 10:42:56 AM
MT. ANGEL — The final three candidates for Mt. Angel’s city administrator position met the public at an open house Friday night. Candidates Mark Kunkler, Susan Muir and David Weiser sampled from the buffet table and spoke to community members in an informal drop-in reception at the Mt.
Hearings begin this week for Woodburn bombing suspects
published: 2/23/2010 10:47:05 AM
SALEM — The men accused of the Woodburn bank bombing that killed two police officers are scheduled to start a hearing this week in Salem. The explosion at West Coast Bank, on Dec.
Aurora awards water contract
published: 2/23/2010 10:16:25 AM
AURORA — The Aurora City Council has awarded a contract to build a new water system filtration project to Cascade Water Works of Salem. The Cascade offer of $494,200 was the lowest of three bids considered by council at a special meeting Feb.
French Prairie topic of letter-writing campaign
published: 2/23/2010 10:21:51 AM
AURORA — Owners of the Langdon Farms Golf Course are expecting the Klamath Tribes to file an application with the Bureau of Indian Affairs as early as next month that would place 385 acres surrounding the golf course into trust.
ODOT official says 99E changes will add work to Hubbard
published: 2/23/2010 10:25:06 AM
HUBBARD — The compromise the Hubbard City Council came to for its Highway 99E sidewalk project will involve additional maintenance, according to highway officials.
Woodburn superintendent search narrows
published: 2/23/2010 10:31:18 AM
WOODBURN — The Woodburn School District may see a familiar face as its future superintendent as the school board narrows the search to two finalists. J.
St. Paul tabs Hobgood as top superintendent candidate
published: 2/24/2010 10:59:22 AM
ST. PAUL — St. Paul School District has announced its first choice in its search for the next superintendent. Sidney Hobgood, the current principal of Falls City High School, is one of five candidates who interviewed with the school board last week and is the only one scheduled for a second interview at this point.
Olympics begin early at FPMS
published: 2/5/2010 4:12:12 PM
WOODBURN — “Let the games begin!” More than 200 French Prairie Middle School students and their families, friends, community members and staff participated in an Olympic-themed event Thursday night through a new grant this year.
Voters to decide if MCC board expands to five seats
published: 2/5/2010 4:15:23 PM
SALEM — Measures 66 and 67 passed a vote last week, putting to rest one of Oregon’s most heated recent debates ... but in Marion County, another controversial decision is just starting to heat up.
Judge hears evidence in bank bombing case
published: 2/1/2010 11:56:47 AM
The two men accused of the December 2008 Woodburn bank bombing were in court last week for an evidence hearing, at which the judge told prosecutors to share evidence with defense attorneys in a timely fashion or risk having it invalidated.
County judge under investigation
published: 2/1/2010 1:40:38 PM
Marion County Circuit Court Judge Lynn E. Ashcroft is under investigation and not currently serving on the bench, the Statesman Journal reported last week.
Death penalty not discussed at recent hearing
published: 2/2/2010 10:54:29 AM
WOODBURN — The death penalty for Bruce and Joshua Turnidge, the father and son accused of Woodburn’s Dec 12., 2008 bank bombing, was not mentioned in talks that took place in a Salem courthouse Friday.
City says trees replaced, now pay up
published: 2/2/2010 10:59:09 AM
WOODBURN — The Woodburn City Council has authorized the city to collect money from property owners in the Ironwood subdivision for a tree replacement project.
Groundhog sees his shadow
published: 2/2/2010 11:31:25 AM
Expect six more weeks of winter.Punxsutawney Phil, the renowned groundhog said to be able to predict the end of the season, saw his shadow this morning.
City suing Fiesta Mexicana board
published: 2/2/2010 11:17:44 AM
WOODBURN — The city of Woodburn is preparing a lawsuit this week against the organizers of the Fiesta Mexicana. The claim, expected to be filed late this week, is against the Woodburn Latin American Club, which runs the Fiesta.
Mr. Roboto
published: 2/2/2010 11:27:56 AM
A group of students from Nellie Muir Elementary School have gone to the state level in a competition based on toys. But there’s no time for the four-member LEGO Robotics team to play.
County judge resigns amidst investigation
published: 2/4/2010 10:08:54 AM
Marion County Circuit Court Judge Lynn E. Ashcroft resigned this week in the midst of a Department of Justice investigation. “I hereby submit my unconditional resignation from the position of Circuit Court Judge for Marion County, Oregon, to be effective Feb.
Salem man stabbed in Gervais
published: 2/5/2010 3:44:44 PM
GERVAIS — A Salem man was stabbed during an exchange in downtown Gervais last week. According to Gervais police, the victim, an adult Hispanic male, was approached by three men walking on the street just before midnight last Wednesday.
Mt. Angel hands out awards
published: 2/5/2010 3:50:01 PM
MT. ANGEL — James L. Schaecher, a partner of Butsch Insurance Company, was named Mt. Angel’s First Citizen by the Mt. Angel Chamber of Commerce this week.
Interviews for new WSD boss to be held Feb. 18-20
published: 2/5/2010 3:52:55 PM
WOODBURN — Only four of 16 applicants for the superintendent position in Woodburn School District are from Oregon. The rest of the applicants are from out of state.
Mt. Angel race down to three
published: 2/9/2010 11:59:43 AM
MT. ANGEL — The city of Mt. Angel has narrowed its selection down to three final candidates for its permanent city administrator position. The candidates are Mark Kunkler of Yakima, Wash.
Gervais tosses ideas around on city logo
published: 2/9/2010 12:06:06 PM
GERVAIS — The city of Gervais has narrowed down the choices of images to appear on its city logo. The final options include Mt. Hood, the historical stagecoach, the Sam Brown House and trees or bits of agriculture, among others.
Local woman helps gather clothes for needy children
published: 2/9/2010 12:12:32 PM
WOODBURN — One woman who has shown a lot of support for the community is now getting community support. Elizabeth Waite, a volunteer who runs Mary and Elizabeth’s Clothing Closet in Woodburn, has received donations from various places, such as St.
House building effort gets boost
published: 2/9/2010 12:18:43 PM
GERVAIS — A nonprofit organization in Gervais has received a $110,000 grant for a project to build houses for low-income residents. The money, which will go to the Yamhill Community Development Corporation (CDC), is for future homeowner’s loans, with the idea of giving them more equity, less debt and allowing them to make lower payments.
City shuts down Teen Center program
published: 2/9/2010 12:22:32 PM
WOODBURN — The city of Woodburn has closed both of its Teen Center locations after two recent concerns came to light. Randall Porter, a part-time employee of the city of Woodburn was arrested Dec.
Salud launches program to bolster youth reading
published: 2/9/2010 11:49:32 AM
WOODBURN — The Woodburn Rotary Club has helped raise $2,000 to buy books and bolster child literacy. The effort, which will purchase 800 to 1,000 books over the next six months, will be facilitated through Salud Medical Center.
City of Woodburn signs contract for water consolidation project
published: 2/9/2010 11:54:37 AM
WOODBURN — The Woodburn City Council has awarded a $1.7 million contract to connect a patch of land outside city limits to its main water line. At a meeting last month, council voted to give the bid to M.
Mt. Angel football to raise more for Huts to Homes
published: 2/9/2010 11:56:08 AM
MT. ANGEL — The Kennedy High School football team is raising money to benefit another family through Huts to Homes.The benefit dinner will be at 6 p.m.
Over half million raised for community building
published: 2/9/2010 11:15:30 AM
MT. ANGEL — In its first six months of fundraising, the Mt. Angel Community Foundation (MACF) has raised approximately $560,000 in cash and pledges toward the estimated $2 million needed for construction of the planned Mt.
Riggan leaves MacLaren, Thompson takes over
published: 2/10/2010 2:47:36 PM
WOODBURN — The superintendent of MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility has resigned to take a position with Washington County. On Wednesday, administrators from Oregon Youth Authority (OYA) announced that Mike Riggan, who began at MacLaren in September of 2008, would be stepping down.
WCC trying to make city more business-friendly with designation
published: 2/12/2010 2:32:10 PM
WOODBURN — The city of Woodburn is trying to get a special zoning status that would allow tax deferrals for industrial businesses to come in or expand.
HCC opposes sale of Maletis brothers land to Klamath Tribe
published: 2/12/2010 2:45:23 PM
HUBBARD — The Hubbard City Council has drafted a letter to the governor and local politicians protesting a possible land deal north of the Aurora State Airport.
Hometown
Leder tops in sales at Hallmark Properties
published: 2/9/2010 11:18:31 AM
WOODBURN — For the second year in a row, Bill Leder has been named the top producer for Hallmark Properties, Inc. He sold over $2 million in properties last year.
Oktoberfest board named
published: 2/9/2010 11:21:26 AM
MT. ANGEL — The Oktoberfest Board of Directors re-elected John Gooley, a 14-year member of the Oktoberfest board as Oktoberfest president. Gooley is vice president for sales at Wither’s Lumber in Brooks.
Long Bros. Lil Hammer Club 2010 schedule
published: 2/2/2010 11:43:49 AM
WOODBURN — The Lil Hammer Club schedule is filled with some new projects, as well as some of Long Bros. favorites from 2009.These classes are open to the community one Saturday each month.
Champoeg seeking volunteers
published: 2/9/2010 11:13:08 AM
CHAMPOEG — Visitors to Champoeg State Heritage Area have been enjoying new, state-of-the-art historical exhibits installed in fall of 2008. These exhibits offer visitors an interactive experience to help them understand some of the people that have lived in French Prairie throughout time, their impact on the landscape and the legacy they have left behind.
Local band to perform in Mt. Angel
published: 2/9/2010 11:08:14 AM
MT. ANGEL — Grupo Emozzion, which plays cumbia, ranchera and corridos music, will perform for the community from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Feb. 13. The event will be at the Willamette Valley Events Center, 210 Monroe St.
Zellner honored at Sacred Heart
published: 2/9/2010 10:34:53 AM
GERVAIS — The National Catholic Education Association (NCEA) established the Distinguished Graduate Award out of recognition that significant accomplishments of Catholic elementary school alumni are a hallmark of Catholic education.
Al's Garden Center offers spring help for lawn care
published: 2/9/2010 10:49:17 AM
WOODBURN — March is the time to prepare for beautiful yards by visiting Al’s Garden Centers. Attend Al’s seminar on lawns and have a thicker, greener, more lush lawn this spring.
Woodburn Chamber sponsors leadership seminar series
published: 2/5/2010 4:19:29 PM
WOODBURN — Motivational speaker and author Ewart Brown will present a series of six seminars designed to help business owners and managers enhance their leadership skills and grow their business.
Woodburn Youth Football receives much-needed equipment grant
published: 2/2/2010 11:56:37 AM
WOODBURN — The Woodburn Youth Football Association was in dire need for equipment. The situation was so bad, the local organization had actually been forced to borrow equipment from other similar organizations around the area, including Newberg and Salem.
I love you, Honey!
published: 2/23/2010 9:53:03 AM
By Marguerite GarciaWoodburn IndependentSpring is right around the corner and I bet the bees are buzzing with anticipation — at least I hope they are! There are many of us “foodies” who can’t help but fret about our food chain’s most precious VIPs (very important pollinators).
Eagle Scout project nets SPHS a flagpole
published: 2/16/2010 11:06:56 AM
ST. PAUL — On Feb. 13, St. Paul High School received a flagpole, thanks to Jacob Vela, who completed the community service project as a part of the requirements for Eagle Scout.
WURSTFEST 2010: Fun for the whole family
published: 2/16/2010 10:46:08 AM
MT. ANGEL — The second annual Mt. Angel Wurstfest was a success, with about 3,800 people in attendance and 24 vendors over three days. While Oktoberfest is the city’s biggest annual event, Oktoberfest, Inc.
Education
Woodburn grad to take part in George Fox play
published: 2/16/2010 9:33:40 AM
NEWBERG — A Woodburn native will take part in a performance from George Fox University’s touring drama troupe Feb. 26 and 27. The performance by the University Players, entitled “Threshold,” will be held at 7:30 p.
Valor Middle School Kiwanis Terrific Kids
published: 2/16/2010 9:41:23 AM
Isabel Martinez Sixth-grader Isabel Martinez, 12, is the daughter of Raquel and Luis Bazan, and the sister of Robert, Gloria, Alysia, Rosemary, Eddie and Daniel.
Bautista selected as new Woodburn superintendent
published: 2/23/2010 2:50:02 PM
WOODBURN — J. David Bautista has been selected as Woodburn School District’s superintendent to replace Walt Blomberg who will retire in June.Bautista is currently serving as administrator for the Salem-Keizer School District overseeing English language development and bilingual education in 67 schools for grades K-12.
Woodburn schools get SMART
published: 2/2/2010 12:04:31 PM
WOODBURN — Three Woodburn elementary schools have “Started Making A Reader Today” through a statewide reading program. SMART, which started in 1992, allows volunteers to come into schools and read with K-3 students to improve their skills and implement their love of reading.
NM students GEAR UP for college
published: 2/2/2010 12:07:01 PM
AURORA — North Marion Middle School students are gearing up for college, visiting campuses and setting personal and academic goals. The school district received the GEAR UP grant (which stands for Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) as one of 20 awarded statewide last year.
Gervais hosts FFA speaking competition
published: 2/2/2010 12:47:49 PM
GERVAIS — High school students throughout the Willamette Valley voluntarily prepared and memorized speeches and interviewed for pretend jobs at Gervais High School on Jan.
Sacred Heart carnival
published: 2/2/2010 12:52:24 PM
Sophia Wagner, whose brother, Simon, is a kindergartner at Sacred Heart Catholic School, poses with Clifford the Big Red Dog at the school’s annual carnival in Gervais Jan.
Local schools receive money from Common School Fund
published: 2/5/2010 4:21:57 PM
SALEM — Five local school districts will receive or have received a formulaic amount of money from Oregon’s Common School Fund. In January, the Woodburn School District received $224,905, North Marion School District received $83,200, Gervais School District received $46,385, Mt.
Middle schools students selected to honor band
published: 2/9/2010 10:56:00 AM
WOODBURN — Five Woodburn middle school band students were selected to participate in this year’s regional Honor Band, hosted by Molalla School District.
St. Luke Auction set for March 6
published: 2/9/2010 10:57:46 AM
WOODBURN — St. Luke School will hold its 31st annual auction and dinner on March 6 at Rubis Hall, located on the school’s campus at 529 Harrison St. in Woodburn.
WACA students excel in art competition
published: 2/2/2010 11:31:46 AM
WOODBURN — The Woodburn Arts and Communications Academy’s (WACA) art program has added a new first to its list of achievements. Because the Willamette Valley art show is now affiliated with the nationally-recognized Scholastic Art Competition, four Woodburn students are having their pieces judged on a national level.
Small Schools Initiative helping Woodburn schools close gap
published: 2/9/2010 10:38:58 AM
WOODBURN — The Oregon Small Schools Initiative reported that students from low-income households enrolled in small high schools, including Woodburn High School, are closing the achievement gap.
N. Marion’s loss is China's gain
published: 2/16/2010 9:14:53 AM
Like a number of American companies, North Marion School District will be losing a longtime administrator to China. Matthew Wilding, principal of North Marion Primary School for 11 years, is resigning as of June 30 to work as a teacher in southeast China.
Valor principal true to his word, made into a human sundae
published: 2/16/2010 9:22:20 AM
WOODBURN — Valor Middle School students were able to decorate Principal Victor Vergara as a sundae Feb. 12, having raised more than $500 for cancer research.
