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County Fair features new attractions for the entire family

By DAVID HAYES I-O Editor

Every year, the fair board picks an animal to have the community revolve suggestions around for that year’s theme. This year they chose sheep and ewes.

This year’s winner “Wool See Ewe There at the Polk County Fair.” Just one problem.

“The kid who submitted the winning slogan, Tristan, only gave his first name. No last no or phone number,” said Tina Anderson, fair manager. “So I have still not been able to tell him. So, Tristan won, and we’d love it if he’d call us.”

The Polk County Fair, which runs Aug. 6-9, schedules its attractions to be family friendly. While the fair runs Wednesday through Saturday, the biggest draws take place in the arena. To accommodate maximum attendance, the fairboard rented out additional bleacher seating. The area now holds about 3 500 people.

“And for us at our little fair, that’s great,” Anderson said.

Back for their sixth year on Thursday night is the Hell on Hooves Rough Stock Rodeo and Anderson just renewed their contract for another three years.

“I love working with them. They’re fantastic to work with,” she said.

Hell on Hooves Rough Stock Rodeo has 10 other stops in their year-long tour with competitors from around the region entering events in saddle bronc riding, bull riding and barrel racing. Then they send out the invite to the audience for the next generation of riders to enter the youth Mutton Bustin’ contest. The youth who holds on longest to the back of a sheep as it tears across the arena wins.

“Everybody loves the rodeo. When they do the barrel racing, a lot of those ladies are local. I just think it’s a fun event that the fair does,” Anderson said.

Back on Friday night for its second year is the FMX RAMPAGE Motocross Show. The arena once again filled to standing room only last year when Adam Jones, an 8-time X-Games medalist, Dew Tour Champion, Red Bull X Fighters winner, and a current Nitro Circus Athlete, brought his high flying, motocross extravaganza. The performance includes breathtaking backflips, in-helmet commentary by Jones himself on the microphone as he completes astonishing aerial stunts.

“They’re really a great group of people. They really get the kids involved. They go out and talk to the kids, and the kids talk to them. It’s just a really good show,” Anderson said.

And new this year on Saturday is the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show, with two performances, at 3 and 5 p.m. Anderson said the show is more of an exhibition of logging skills with their own performers than an

PHOTO BY DAVID HAYES

Eli Peck, 12, raises his hand in victory after winning New Morning Bakery’s youth pie eating contest Saturday during Dallas Days. After downing the homemade marionberry pie the fastest, Peck, of Monmouth, won 12 more cupcakes. Ian Paddock, 44, of Dallas, won the adults’ competition. For more photos from the annual three-day festival, see page A8.

Dallas Police regains bragging rights in Battle of the Badges

By DAVID HAYES I-O Editor

Early on July 15, a large contingent of officers from the Dallas Police Department were called to an incident at the Grocery Outlet. They couldn’t get their designated response squad activated until corresponding representatives from Dallas Fire & EMS arrived on scene as well.

It wouldn’t do to begin the third annual Battle of the Badges Grocery Dash without both teams at the starting line.

Jason Thornton, Dallas and Monmouth Grocery Outlet owner, once again welcomed the participants, cheering squads and onlookers. The goal of the friendly competition, Thornton said, is to raise as much money as possible for the families in need.

“That’s the whole reason we do this. In July it’s been successful. As a company, we’re close to the $4 million mark. Over 500 stores. Each store is pushing hard to help its own community. Which is nice, because it all stays in our prospective community. We get the money at the store and give it directly to the foodbank,” Thornton said.

He explained overall donations to the Dallas Foodbank came close to $10,000, while this year was a little shy.

“We might come in around $6,000 to $7 000. It feels a little light, but people are still giving. It’s a good thing,” he said.

The competition’s premise is simple. Dallas Food Bank director Eddie Nelson makes up a list of needed items, finds them on the Grocery Outlet shelves, then mixes them up so they won’t be easy to find by the teams.

“To win, they have, one, to be the first ones done, two, complete the list completely and three, have the exact quantities of each item required (five),” Thornton said.

He added the event is one of his favorites.

DAVID HAYES

Dallas Police Officer Courtney Baker stuffs items into her cart as teammate Dect. Jane Lauderback checks items off the list during the annual Battle of the Badges. The recipient of their efforts, Dallas Food Bank Director Eddie Nelson, cheers them on in the background.

“I love it. The community is the biggest reason for why I do what I do. Just because we give back. Be here to offer inexpensive groceries to families with lower budgets. So it’s been really beneficial,” Thornton said.

Detective Jane Lauderback, participating in her second go around in the Battle of the Badges, was joined by competition rookie Officer Courtney Backer. Lauderback manned the clipboard with the checklist, marking off each item as it was found on the shelf. Backer did the maneuvering of the shopping cart, undeterred by a wobbly wheel.

“She shops here. I don’t, so I just go with her,” Backer said afterwards. ‘I think it was fun. The competition aspect. Trying to find everything on the list was difficult. They mixed everything up on the list to make it harder.”

She added their strategy was to go isle by aisle, rather than hop all over the place, saving time.

It worked, as the Police Squad finished first.

However, the fire squad managed to tally a higher overall total in groceries thrown into their carts.

The police team’s final receipt was $680 20 while the firefighters came in at $755 42, for an overall total of $1 435 62 in much needed groceries that were immediately delivered to the Dallas Foodbank afterwards.

Nicole Schmidt, Dallas Fire & EMS firefighter and paramedic, explained the discrepancy in the receipts between the two teams.

“We bought the good stuff,” she said.

Her teammate Brian Nordyke, Division Chief of Training and Retention, has volunteered for the grocery dash all three years. He said another reason their carts ended up with more value was they grabbed some items by the case, rather than individually.

He added he doesn’t mind coming back every year, even if it does end up on the losing team.

David HAYES I-O Editor

During his quarterly update to the County Commissioners July 15, Polk County Sheriff Mark Garton let them know he had to cancel one of his patrol programs due to state cutbacks.

Garton said the Sheriff’s Office canceled the marine patrol this year, ending an agreement with the Oregon State Marine Board.

“The reason - they cut funding, again, 30 percent,” he said, adding this meant a hit to the fuel and maintenance budget. “Originally, I had about $30 000 in staff costs, they were going to cut that another 30 percent.”

The 30 percent cut across the board came for most agencies, except state police Garton said.

“I made the decision to stop that because we can’t afford to keep doing the same amount of stuff for less money,” he said.

The PCSO will still be responsible for search and rescue activities on the water. To keep that up, they’re working to replace all the boats, as they originally came from the Marine Board. In the meantime, it is unclear who will now patrol the Willamette River.

“To be honest, they don’t know, I don’t know, who’s going to be responsible for the river,” Garton said. “It hasn’t been dictated by the Marine Board, so I don’t know if it’s going to be Yamhill, Benton or Marion county, or if they’ll backfill with state police. They haven’t told us.”

The rest of his report was a summary of his office’s activities and calls for service from May 7 through July 8

“Deputies responded to a wide range of incidents, from traffic enforcement and crash investigations to welfare checks and criminal investigations, demonstrating their ongoing commitment to the safety and well-being of the Polk County community,” Garton’s report read.

In traffic safety and enforcement, deputies conducted 438 traffic stops for various violations, including excessive speed, driving while suspended, and driving uninsured. In one notable instance, a driver was stopped for traveling 91 mph in a 55-mph zone.

Deputies also responded to 37 reported crashes. Garton said it was important to note that a “reported crash” does not always meet the criteria for a state-reportable crash under Oregon law.

These incidents ranged from minor, non-injury events to more serious collisions, including:

- Several vehicle versus deer crashes, a common occurrence in our rural areas.

- A single-vehicle rollover where the driver swerved to avoid a deer.

WOU to host pioneering training with Deafblind community

Story by WOU

Western Oregon University will host pioneering training sessions from Aug. 7-20 in the language of Protactile (PT), an emerging language within the DeafBlind community.

While traditional American Sign Language is a visual language, Protactile, created in the early 2000s, is fully contact-based and communicated by touch between two or more people.

From Page A1

“Just the camaraderie between us and the police department. Like we do this, then the softball game. We just have a fun time … giving each other a hard time back and forth. And knowing it all goes back to the community,” Nordyke said.

Schmidt said being on the losing squad was not a big deal, as they were not the target audience for the food.

From Page A1

actual competition. Events include log cutting, including chopping and sawing, the ax throw and the log roll. But to have a log roll competition, Anderson acknowledges you need water.

“They’re coming in really early that morning to fill their tank. And that arena is perfect to put that sort of thing in because it’s nice and flat and soft,” Anderson said.

Approximately 30 professional American Sign Language/English interpreters and 22 DeafBlind mentors will fly into Oregon from 10 other states (California, Louisiana, Massachusetts, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington) for the Protactile Language Interpreting Institute and will learn co-presence skills, will study Protactile language, and co-navigation skills.

Seven nationally-renowned Deafblind leaders will train

“We’ll get them in softball later,” she added.

The winning declaration came down to a ruling by store owner Thornton. Because both teams had a discrepancy in the contents of their carts, he reverted back to the first criteria for winning - finishing first.

Thornton presented the trophy to the winning police squad afterwards, pleased with another successful competition that ultimately helps those in need.

“I’m very pleased. It was very successful,” he said.

The list of other new attractions to this year’s fair is growing. Anderson said they’re added Sunday Speed Trip - featuring a puppet in his car driving around, Chemeketa Community College CDL Truck Simulator where youth can get in the seat driving a virtual truck, and Creating Opportunities, a Salem group supports families of children with developmental disabilities in Marion, Polk, and Yamhill Counties. “They’re bringing a trailer in and doing stuff for autistic

these interpreters. Along with the interpreters, the Deafblind individuals will receive further instruction in mentoring to support interpreters in their local communities. Interpreters will learn from the DeafBlind trainers, then return to their home communities to work with Beafblind individuals and share their new skills.

“This is an exciting opportunity,” said CM Hall, co-director of the Protactile Language Interpreting National Education Program. “The expectation is to maintain a fully immersive

‘co-presence’ for all professional and social interaction. The interpreters selected to attend have invested about 150 hours so far preparing and studying for months, and will continue their training as they apply their skills and learn literally firsthand.”

In 2021, Western Oregon University was awarded a five-year, multimillion-dollar federal grant through the Rehabilitation Services Administration, an agency within the U.S. Department of Education, to train sign language interpreters working with Deafblind individuals

who use this new language. Hall said Western won the grant, in part, because of the university’s leadership in research and effective interpreter education. Western has also built relationships with leaders in the national DeafBlind community and movement.

The group of trainers and interpreters will spend most of their time at the Independence Conference Center and around Independence and Monmouth. On Aug. 12 and 19, day trips are planned to Newport to experience the

tactile art sculptures, as well as engage in a Lunch and Learn series where the interpreters will have the opportunity to apply their new skills. In the social outings, the group will walk in dyads and clusters as the interpreters describe the visual environment and practice their emerging Protactile skills, such as finding opportunities for tactile exploration. To learn more about Protactile language and see it in practice, go to www.youtube.com/ watch?v=hjWzdQ40hfY.

Dallas Library hosts author visit with Stewart Baker

The Dallas Library will host Nebula award winning author Stewart Baker at 6 p.m. Aug. 1

If you enjoy reading or writing stories, or perhaps playing games, come join published short story and text-based gaming author Baker as he discusses how reading and gaming led to short story fiction and game writing. He will highlight the myths

kids and kids with disabilities. We don’t have the carnival and everything we do out here is for free,” Anderson said. “This is a quieter place for them to be. So, I’m super excited to add that organization here.”

Returning is the fair’s popular Family Fun Zone, filled with free activities, including a water slide and obstacle course, Air Hockey Tables, miniature golf, oversize Jenga, Connect 4, Dice for Yahtzee and Farkle, Corn Hole and lots more. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office and

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and realities of being a writer, the importance of community, and how and why you might try creating your own stories, books, or games.

Baker is an academic librarian and author of speculative fiction, including “The Butterfly Disjunct: And Other Stories” (Interstellar Flight Press), poetry and games. He co-wrote the

SW Polk Fire District also set up exhibits with activities and giveaways for the youth.

Then the fair’s main stage features the best in local entertainment, including the Tuesday String Band, the Big Ace Band, The Aaron Shinkle Band and Cascade Rye.

Then on Saturday night, when all the other activities are over, they clear away all the chairs and benches and create a huge dance floor and invite in a DJ for a big dance to honor the 4H/FAA participants.

Sheriff

From Page A1

- A head-on collision that required one driver to be extricated from their vehicle.

- A unique incident where deputies and Grand Ronde Tribal Police worked together to safely stop a school bus with a stuck accelerator, preventing a potentially tragic outcome.

During this reporting period, deputies also made a total of 103 physical arrests.

“Our volumes are up,” Garton said. “Over the last three months on patrol, we’ve been a little short staffed. We are full staffed, but that just

2025 Nebula-awardwinning game “A Death in Hyperspace” and the 2024 Nebula-nominated game “The Bread Must Rise.”

His fiction has appeared in Nature, Lightspeed and Flash Fiction Online, among other places, and his poetry has appeared in Fantasy, Asimov’s, and numerous haiku magazines.

Born in England, Stewart now lives in Dallas. His

This year Anderson expects about 400 4-H participants and another 200 from FAA, showing off their talents.

“It’s a good group of kids. Our animals are good. We’ve got a swine barn, not sure where we’re going to put them all, but we’ll figure it out. But it’s a good thing that we are definitely full,” Anderson said.

To keep fair visitors well fed to keep on going to the next event, there will be more than a dozen vendors.

means we have people at different levels of training.”

He said the jail is fully staffed, with a lot of movement taking place over the next 18 months, with a lot of succession planning.

The jail’s population has averaged 110-115 inmates earlier this year. However, over the last couple of months, they’ve seen an uptick in average population to 145, which gets to their upper limit, Garton said.

“It makes it hard for us to move people into different spots and keep people safe,” he explained, adding the District Attorney’s office said in a meeting July 14 their numbers were up as well for intakes. “It’s summer, but I

book “The Butterfly Disjunct” will be available for purchase and signing. This free event is made possible by funding from the Polk County Cultural Coalition. You can contact the library for further information at (503) 623-2633 or go to www.facebook. com/dallaslibraryoregon.

Tickets are still just $10 for adults 16 and older, or $15 if purchased after 4 p.m. on Thursday and Friday for the arena shows, $8 for seniors (free on Thursday until 4 p.m.), $8 for juniors ages 11-15 and free for kids 10 and under and military with ID. The fair is open Wednesday from 2-10 p.m. and from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. For more information, go to www.co.polk.or.us/fair/ annual/polk-county-fair-2025

can’t tell you why exactly right now.”

Next, Garton said as the sheriff office’s new dog kennel nears completion, in the last three weeks, he’s received word that three different agencies have been depositing lost dogs from Polk County at the Marion County Dog Shelter. He explained he didn’t know why that happened, as his office has never had an agreement with them.

However, his office has resumed talks with the Humane Society after they reached out to him, headed by a new board and new director.

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.

“The idea is our shelter is not going to be staffed, full service dog shelter,” Garton explained. “It’s mainly going to be a storage area for us to be able to get the dogs back to where they belong. And if we can’t, my idea is to work out some kind of agreement with the Humane Society to shuffle the dogs to them if we can’t find a home.”

He added this agreement would ideally include city agencies getting lost dogs to the Humane Society as well.

In summary, he said his deputies are out there “busting their butts,” both in the jail with the higher inmate numbers and on the roads, where they’ve been able to perform more patrols thanks to a grant from ODOT.

Which hasn’t gone unnoticed.

“With the amount of traffic enforcement we’re doing, I’ve heard from people unsolicited, just the change in appreciativeness in us being out on the highway doing traffic enforcement,” Garton said. “The deputies are exhausted, but I know they know staff are coming on and things are going to get better. It won’t always be like it has been the last five or six months.”

State seeks feedback in future of

Story by OPRD

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department

(OPRD) wants to better understand the public’s values and priorities for the future of state parks through a new survey as it launches a strategic initiative to reimagine how parks are funded, operated and supported.

OPRD faces a potential 14% budget shortfall for park operations by 2027 even with recent fee increases. The gap is due to increasing costs, the impact of higher visitation and

changes in lottery funds. The strategic initiative will work to address that shortfall before 2027

“For more than a century, Oregon’s parks have been a source of pride, joy, and connection for communities across the state,” said Lisa Sumption, OPRD Director.

“But the way we fund the system has not kept up with how Oregonians use and value it today. We’re not waiting for the crisis—we’re planning ahead to build a more resilient and relevant park system.”

OPRD launched an online survey this month to collect feedback from visitors and potential visitors about their priorities for new and existing experiences, services and amenities as well as views on public-private partnerships, sponsorships and other funding options.

The survey is open to everyone and will help inform decisions about the future of state parks. Those who complete the survey have the option of entering a drawing for a free Oregon State Parks annual parking permit.

Oregon State Parks continues to experience record visitation with more than 56 6 million estimated visits in 2024. It is one of the most visited park systems in the country.

This level of use significantly increases wear and tear on aging park infrastructure, driving up maintenance needs and long-term operational costs.

Parks’ funding comes from three main sources. A little less than half comes from constitutionally dedicated lottery funds, about 15% comes

from the agency’s share of recreational vehicle license plate fees and roughly 35% comes from park fees from visitors. Oregon State Park operations are not funded by general fund taxes.

“We already operate leanly, but we’re also taking a hard look at costs and spending decisions as we plan the future. We’re building new partnerships with Oregon businesses and growing opportunities for visitors to experience state parks in new and innovative ways,” Sumption said.

In addition to operating more than 250 state parks and maintaining hundreds of historic structures, the agency also manages the ocean shore, the State Historic Preservation Office, ATV safety programs and permits as well as multiple grant programs for trails, ATVs, historic structures and local government projects. For more information about the survey or to learn about ways to support parks, visit stateparks.oregon.gov/ or take the survey at bit.ly/ stateparksurvey.

Oregon wildfire survivors to pay federal taxes on settlements

ALEX BAUMHARDT

Oregon Capital Chronicle

A bill that would have provided some federal tax relief on settlements paid to survivors of utility-caused wildfires died in the final hours of the Oregon legislative session in June, despite early bipartisan support.

Advocates of the proposal that would have required utilities to cover the cost of federal income taxes on settlements to wildfire survivors attributed the failure to a last-minute decision by Democratic lawmakers to tweak the bill and roll it into a completely different package in the final days of the session.

Because it failed to pass, wildfire survivors who receive settlements from an at-fault utility after January 2026 will have to pay federal income taxes on the settlement, pending intervention from Congress. A federal law exempting such settlements from federal income taxes expires at the end of the year.

The average award that utility PacifiCorp, owner of Oregon-based Pacific Power, has paid to survivors of several of the 2020 Labor Day fires is roughly $5 million, according to Cody Berne, an attorney for Portland-based law firm Stoll Berne who represents wildfire victims.

Juries have found PacifiCorp responsible for at least four of the catastrophic wildfires that killed nine people and destroyed thousands of homes in September 2020, and many of the affected are still awaiting their day in court. Under federal income tax rates, that leaves the average fire survivor turning over about one-third of their PacifiCorp settlement to the federal government, Berne said. The Oregon Legislature passed a bill in 2024 exempt-

When Senate Bill 926 passed the Oregon Senate in April, it included provisions requiring utilities that cause a wildfire to pay federal income taxes on settlements awarded to survivors.

It also included language prohibiting Oregon’s private investor-owned utilities from recovering wildfire lawsuit costs from ratepayers — including fines, fees and settlements — if the company was found by a court or jury to have acted recklessly or negligently in causing the fire. It also prohibited companies from raising rates to pay for repairing or replacing wildfire-damaged infrastructure if the company was found by court or jury to have been at fault for the fire.

Under the bill, electric utilities indebted by a wildfire judgment and pending trials would not have been allowed to send dividends, income, interest or profits to corporate owners and shareholders and would have had to pay 9% interest on any damages awarded to wildfire victims starting from the date of the fire, rather than the date the damages are awarded.

The underlying point of the bill was to get PacifiCorp to move faster in settling with survivors of the 2020 Labor Day Fires.

Pacific Power and Portland General Electric opposed the bill, but dozens of wildfire victims submitted testimony and showed up in person to support it. Many senators who voted for the bill referred to the power of public testimony.

But in the House, Judiciary Committee Chair Jason Kropf, D-Bend, changed the bill, adding to it a requirement that the legislature pay a third-party to study “issues related to catastrophic wildfire risk and recovery,” and that the Oregon

standards for good wildfire prevention.

The wildfire certificates are part of an earlier and controversial bill introduced by Rep. Pam Marsh, D-Ashland, and co-sponsored by Kropf. Critics saw it as offering some state-sanctioned liability coverage to utilities should they be in court defending themselves from allegations that they were negligent in causing a powerline-ignited fire.

By tacking on the wildfire risk and recovery study, which would have to be paid for by the state’s general fund, Kropf ensured the bill would be sent to the Joint Ways and Means Committee, where it eventually died without getting a committee vote. Kropf did not respond to an interview request.

Sam Drevo, a survivor of the 2020 Labor Day fires in the Santiam Canyon, said he and other survivors were “abandoned” by Kropf and Marsh, D-Ashland.

“Hundreds of fire victims made the trip to Salem to testify in support of a bill written to hasten settlement of their claims against PacifiCorp for igniting fires that burned their homes and communities,” he said. “We all shared heartbreaking stories of loss, death, suicide and homelessness in our communities.”

A franken-bill

In the last few weeks of the session, Kropf and Marsh were able to salvage the tax relief provision of Senate Bill 926 by rolling it into a placeholder bill, a kind of dummy bill lawmakers introduce early in the session and keeping quietly on hand for the end of the session, so it can be swapped out for a new, emerging proposal.

What became House Bill 3984 got its first vetting by lawmakers on June 27, the very last day of the 2025

to pay for the wildfire risk and recovery study and the Oregon Public Utilities Commission to establish the wildfire safety certificate program.

The bill passed narrowly on the House floor on June 27, but did not get a final vote in the Senate before the session wrapped late that Friday night.

Wildfire survivors and advocates, including Drevo and Berne, believe that adding the wildfire safety certificate program to the bill ultimately tanked it, and with it, tax relief for wildfire survivors.

Marsh rejects that adding the wildfire safety certificate program tanked the bill.

“It was the last day of session, so getting action on anything was a long shot,” she said in an email. She noted that some lawmakers who had supported the earlier tax bill passed in the Senate were disappointed that so much had been changed by the time it moved through the House.

“From my perspective, given the December expiration

of the federal tax protections, the bill would have been a major win for survivors, if not everything that was originally requested in 926,” she said.

“That felt worth a last minute hail mary.”

Marsh said she is reflecting on the many conversations she’s had about wildfire and utility liability issues during the session.

“No question that we have to continue to look at the risks facing utilities in these fire prone days,” she said.

“I’m sure that other advocates working with survivors have additional ideas of what might be proposed.” https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2025/07/25/ oregon-wildfire-survivors-topay-federal-taxes-on-settlements-next-year-after-statebill-failed/

Oregon Capital Chronicle is part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity.

Oregon Capital Chronicle maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Lynne Terry for questions: info@oregoncapitalchronicle.com.

David Duane Fish

March 19, 1951 - July 13, 2025

David Duane Fish passed away peacefully, of natural causes, on July 13, 2025

David was born on March 19 1951, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, to Lawrence and Frances Fish. He joined a pack of brothers (Bob, Mike, and Jerry) and began a life of adventure. With three older brothers, it goes without saying that there was always something to do. The four brothers enjoyed their time together exploring nature and competing in all sorts of activities, like wrestling and boxing. Three years after David’s birth, the family welcomed a new addition — his sister Laurie, who displaced him as the “baby” of the family, though his youthful spirit never faded.

In 1955, the family planted roots in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, first settling in Lake Oswego before moving up and down the valley over the next 14 years. David went to elementary school in Lake Oswego and Monmouth, junior high school in Monmouth and Eugene, and graduated from Lake Oswego High School in 1969. He enjoyed a buzzing social life in his teenage years and while a knee injury sidelined his football ambitions, he stayed close to the action as a “yell king” on the Lake Oswego rally squad.

Following his graduation from high school, David ventured across oceans and borders to call places like Guam, St. Thomas V.I., and Alaska his home. Having satisfied his wanderlust, he returned to the lower 48 and spent many years living in and around the Portland area. In 1993 he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Marketing from the University of Portland. His professional career was spread across several trades, working in restaurants,

Marilyn Keeter

Dec. 14, 1946 – June 19, 2025

Forever in our hearts, always remembered.

A funeral mass will be Aug. 1 at Sacred Heart Church in Medford, Oregon.

sales and marketing, and in retail. In 2009, David came full circle and returned to Monmouth, where he spent the remainder of his days enjoying life “on the farm.”

Everything outdoors was David’s “jam,” and that’s where he preferred to spend his time. He grew up camping, fishing, hunting and golfing, and those were passions he carried with him throughout his life. He also loved sports, particularly college football and the Oregon Ducks. Charismatic and outgoing, David had an uncanny ability to make friends wherever he went. He brought joy to those around him with his quick wit, smile, and signature charm. He wasn’t shy about sharing his opinions — or a well-timed joke — and always aimed to steer conversations toward laughter and light. He often summed up his perspective with his trademark phrase: “Yeah, baby.”

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Frances, and his sister, Marceda. He is survived by his brothers Bob (wife Donna), Mike (wife Sue) and Jerry (wife Tris); sister Laurie (husband Thomas); many nieces and grandnieces, nephews and grandnephews; and lots of cousins, all of whom he loved deeply.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Please honor and remember David in your own way — whether you’re spending time outdoors, cheering on the Ducks, or simply enjoying one of life’s everyday pleasures.

Howard Pope 1937 - 2025

Howard Pope was born in the spring of 1937 to parents John Bud and Myrtle V. Pope. Born in Albany, Oregon, Howard was the third of four children. Raised in a family filled with the pioneer spirit, Howard knew hard work from an early age. He attended Corvallis High School. Howard’s father helped him buy his first tractor.

In November of 1958, Howard moved to Berry Creek in Benton County, and the farm life began. At some point, Mountain View Farms was born, starting small with 400 acres of leased land. The farm and its equipment grew with the years.

Howard loved the great outdoors and

enjoyed deer and bird hunting in his younger years and early adult life.

As a lifelong resident of the Willamette Valley, Howard was deeply involved in his community. He actively served on the Chamber of Commerce in Monmouth/ Independence. He was a Polk County Fair Foundation Founder and served from 2002-2014. He won numerous conservation awards and certificates of appreciation. He acted as a director of the Polk County Farmers Co-Op.

Howard was instrumental in developing and managing elements of the field burning Smoke Management Program in western Oregon for more than 30 years. He did this while operating up to 3,500 acres of his own grass seed farm. Howard was a volunteer fire fighter for many years alongside his farming neighbors, and served on the Southeast Polk Fire Board until he helped merge that fire district with Monmouth and Independence to form Polk County Fire District #1

During the years, Howard and Judy employed hundreds of local youths to work the harvest every summer. Howard built a farming empire to be proud of, including a seed cleaning warehouse and storage buildings for hay and straw. He was loved and will be missed.

Howard is survived by his wife of 57 years Judy; son Craig (Dina); daughters Lynn, Robin, Teri (Roy), Lisa (Lee) and Dyan; 11 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, and three great-great grandchildren. Howard was 88 years young at the time of his passing.

A celebration of Howard’s life was held at Green Villa Barn on Sunday,

Death Notices

Cheryl Anne Priest

Mar.15, 1949 – July 4, 2025

Celebration of Life, with buffet following, will be at 11 a.m. Aug. 23 at the Salem Nazarene Church, NE 16th and Market St., Salem (1550 NE Market Street).

July 27 2025, from 2-5 pm. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Howard’s name to the Polk County Fairgrounds.

Howard’s words to the next generation: Go to the sea from time to time to refresh your mind and your body (I will be with you). Go to a hilltop and look around you (I will be with you). Take time to smell a rose and look at the bloom, or go to the mountains and look at the beauty around you (I will be with you).

Grace Eiola Janzen

July 8, 1924 - July 20, 2025

Grace Eiola Janzen (Schmidt) passed peacefully into the presence of her Lord and Savior on July 20, 2025, at the age of 101. She was born on July 8, 1924, in a home on Church Street in Dallas, Oregon, to Tobias and Agnes (Linscheid) Schmidt. The oldest of three children, she was a steady and loving presence for her younger siblings, Bill and Jewelle.

Grace lived her entire life in Dallas, attending local schools and graduating from Dallas High School in 1942. After graduation, she began working for the Polk County Extension Service and later joined the office staff at JCPenney.

On Aug. 23 1945, Grace married Clarence Janzen at the Grace Mennonite Church in Dallas. Over the years they were active members of the local business community. Together, they owned and operated several businesses including The Beacon Restaurant and Motel (later Farrells Restaurant in Rickreall), the Flying A Service station (later Grubbs & Peters Phillips 66) across from the bowling alley, and the

Dallas Planning Mill, where Grace worked as a bookkeeper for many years. They retired in 1986 She was a charter member of Faith Evangelical Free Church, and her faith was very important to her all her life. She was always involved in church activities such as women’s ministry, bible studies and helping in the kitchen. Grace cared for others in her kind and “graceful” way, giving her full attention to whatever she was doing, such as playing with a grandchild or just talking with her family or a friend. Many have commented that she truly lived up to her name in so many ways. She also loved to read, garden, listen to music, go to the Oregon coast and participate in family and church activities.

Grace’s love for her family was also foundational in her life. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, always putting her family first and taking joy in their lives, milestones and everyday moments. Her legacy of love and togetherness will live on through them. In her later years, she especially enjoyed time with family - whether visiting around the table or playing favorite games like Farkle and Skip-bo, moments that brought laughter and connection across generations.

She was preceded in death by her husband Clarence, her parents, her sister Jewelle Peters and her brother Bill Schmidt.

She is survived by her three children, Susan Hicks (Patrick), James Janzen, and Cathy Aime (Nick); four grandchildren, Sarah Hicks, Michael Hicks (Jennifer), Alisha Koons (Evan) and Lilly Aime; and three great-grandsons, Daniel and Isaac Hicks and Lane Koons. She also leaves many nieces, nephews and friends who were blessed by her presence in their lives.

A private family graveside service will be held followed by a memorial service at 1 p.m. Monday, Aug. 11 2025, at the Evangelical Bible Church (EBC) in Dallas, 1175 SE Howe St. In honor of Grace’s life, memorial contributions may be made to Dallas Weekday School of the Bible or the Salem Union Gospel Mission, in care of the Dallas Mortuary Tribute Center at 287 SW Washington St. Dallas, Oregon 97338

James (Jim) Dunn Mar. 24, 1953 – June 26, 2025

James (Jim) Ross Dunn, 72, passed away in the loving arms of his family at Salem Hospital on June 26. Jim’s celebration of life will be held at the Dallas Event Center on Saturday, Aug. 2, from 3-6 p.m. He was best known as a counterman at Napa in Dallas.

Letters to the Editor

Have you noticed that hardly a day goes by that we don’t hear some sort of negative news?

In a book I read (the Bible) it says in Luke 11:17 “A house divided against itself will fall.” Sad to say that every one of us has either been, or knows someone, who has experienced that division. The beginning of that verse says “Any kingdom divided against itself will be ruined.” Are we, the United States, divided? I’m afraid that we are, and it’s not getting any better.

The following is a quote from another book I have just finished reading. I feel that it applies.

“We have stamped on our coins ‘In God We Trust.’

We have written God’s Emancipation Proclamation on our Liberty Bell. But in recent years, we have forgotten that a nation must depend upon God. We no longer make any allowance for God to work in our society. We have erased God’s name from our national monuments, blotted all mention of Him from our children’s textbooks. We are forgetting our heritage as ‘one nation under God,’ and we are rapidly becoming a secular and godless society.”

Taken from The Way to Wholeness: Lessons from Leviticus by Ray C. Stedman © 2005 by Elaine Stedman. Used by permission of Our Daily Bread Publishing, Grand Rapids, MI 49501. All rights reserved.

A young fellow several years ago said “Can’t we all just get along?” He wasn’t the best example but his question is appropriate. Can we get along?

Bruce Quinn Dallas

Jerry Mott was pushed through

I want to share my concern about the recent appointment of Jerry Mott as Dallas’ new police chief. From what I understand, the city’s own hiring committee had recommended restarting the search for candidates due to there being no suitable finalist. That advice was not followed, and I think it’s important for the public to understand why.

Community trust in law enforcement depends on leadership that listens, collaborates, and builds strong relationships with local partners. Unfortunately, I’ve heard from multiple residents who say they’ve had difficult interactions with Chief Mott. In one instance I witnessed, a woman was approached with what felt like unnecessary force after simply putting out a cigarette. She seemed to be in distress and may have needed shelter. Others have shared similar concerns.

These experiences can increase strain on our jail system, discourage people from seeking help, and make it harder for social service agencies to do their work. Dallas needs to evolve from a reactionary “old boys club” culture to what Dallas actually is - an up and coming diverse community. This moment is a chance for Dallas to embrace community policing that focuses on prevention, compassion, accountability and partnerships. We need leadership that brings people together, not one that deepens divisions. I hope the city will listen to residents and explore ways to create a safer, more inclusive public safety culture for everyone. Mott was a poor choice and is not going to achieve support for the jail.

Brenda Carlson Dallas

Back to My Roots: Eight meaningful ways I’m reconnecting with family and culture this summer

By DHEE-GHEE PALMER Art, Design & Technology Teacher At Cascade Virtual Academy

As an art teacher, equity leader, and proud FilipinoAmerican, I believe summer is a time not just for rest, but for reconnection; with our roots, our families, and our values. Here’s how I’m embracing this summer break in the Philippines with intention, joy, and a deep appreciation for culture and family.

1

- Reuniting with my core family: My parents, siblings, nieces, nephew and sisterin-law are my foundation. Reuniting with them isn’t just a visit; it’s a return to the first place I ever learned love, culture, and resilience.

A word please

By JUNE CASAGRANDE

A recent headline in the New York Times caught my attention: “City Beekeepers: The Dos and Don’ts of Maintaining an Urban Hive.” The idea of keeping beehives in Manhattan is interesting, of course, but if you’re a word nerd like me, you’re probably also intrigued by “dos and don’ts.”

On the one hand, it looks funny. “Dos” looks like it should be pronounced as if it rhymes with “boss,” especially because an early PC operating system called DOS did rhyme with “boss.” But if you put an apostrophe in “do’s,” wouldn’t you have to do the same for “don’t’s,” giving it one apostrophe for the contraction then another to make it plural?

Weird as “dos and don’ts” looks, at least it’s logical in a system that says don’t use apostrophes to form plurals. Yet if that headline had appeared in any of thousands of other newspapers in the country, it would have been written differently: do’s and don’ts. That’s right, lots of news outlets would use an apostrophe to make a plural out of “do” but they would not use an apostrophe to make “don’t” into a plural. Why? Because the Associated Press Stylebook, which most newspapers follow, says to use “do’s and don’ts.”

Punctuation rules aren’t made to be broken. But they’re so flawed that sometimes you should break them anyway. That’s most true when it comes to apostrophes to form plurals. The basic rule is: don’t. One cat plus another cat isn’t two cat’s. It’s two cats. No apostrophe. But it’s not always so easy. Say, for example, you want to talk about a student’s grades. Until recently, a lot of newspapers would have said, “Johnny gets mostly Bs and Cs, along with a few A’s.” The first two letters followed the no-apostrophe rule. But if you follow that rule for the letter A, you spell a word: “as.” So

some editing styles made an exception for letters like “A” and “I.”

The biggest among them, AP, recently abandoned that system. Now, AP says, use apostrophes to form plurals of every letter: “Johnny gets mostly B’s and C’s, along with a few A’s.” It doesn’t align with apostrophe rules, but at least it’s less distracting.

The change puts AP’s rule for capital letters in line with their rule for lowercase letters, which has always been to use an apostrophe when forming a plural: “There are two p’s in Mississippi.” That apostrophe

2. Museum visits with the next generation: I am planning to visit national and art museums with my son and his young cousins. These trips are more than field trips. They’re living lessons in Filipino history, art, and identity.

3. Showing my son the Philippines: This trip is especially meaningful, as I have decided to share it with my son. Giving him the chance to enjoy and explore more of the Philippines through its language, culture, family connections, and, of course, plenty of time to relax and soak it all in.

4. Art museums are my personal must: As an artist and educator, visiting art museums is non-negotiable. They refresh my spirit and inform

in the Philippines

my teaching in deeply meaningful ways.

5. Embracing joy with the kids: We’re making time for a Disneyland-inspired theme park. Sometimes, joy means going where the kids want to go and seeing the world through their eyes.

6. A Nature tour for my father: We’re planning a nature escape with fishing and boating, hiking in the mud and rain, spending the nights in cottages on stilts resting on top of the lakes. We eat fresh fruit and enjoy swimming in waterscapes. All these activities honor my dad’s love for plants and the outdoors. Sharing these simple pleasures builds lasting memories.

7. Wellness & Massage - A truly cultural experience: In the Philippines, wellness is an

art form. Treating my loved ones (and myself!) to massage and wellness services is both a gift and a way to experience a vital part of Filipino culture.

8. A long-awaited family portrait: Our grand finale: a family portrait. The last time we did one was in 1990. It’s time to capture the family we are today and smile at this memory for years to come! My final thoughts: “No matter how far I travel or how fulfilling my work in the U.S. may be, a part of me remains in the Philippines. Our time together is precious, and we never know when life will shift again. Love hard, give often, and don’t wait to celebrate those closest to you. Because family is forever.”

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Fifi Rodriguez

• On Aug. 11, 1806, while hunting for elk along the Missouri River, Meriwether Lewis was accidentally shot by one of his own men, likely Private Pierre Cruzatte, though Cruzatte, who was blind in one eye and nearsighted in the other, denied it. Historians suspect he mistook the leather-clad Lewis for an elk. Lewis made a full recovery.

• On Aug. 12, 1994, Major League Baseball players went on a strike that lasted for 232 days and caused the cancellation of that year’s World Series for the first time in 90 years.

• On Aug. 13, 1941, Henry Ford displayed his “Soybean Car,” the plastic body of which was partially composed of the legumes. It weighed half as much as a steel-bodied car and Ford claimed it was safer, but the model never actually went into production.

• On Aug. 14, 1985, the “King of Pop,” Michael Jackson, bought the publishing rights to the vast majority of the Beatles’ catalog for a cool $47 million. After his death, Sony, one of his primary creditors, assumed full control of the catalog.

• On Aug. 15, 1950, Princess Anne, the second child and only daughter of England’s Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, was born. She has long been widely admired for her seemingly tireless work ethic (she does not plan to retire until she’s 90) and involvement with more than 300 charities, as well as her general practicality and reliability.

• On Aug. 16, 1987, a plane crash at Detroit Metropolitan Airport in Michigan killed 156 people, including Nick Vanos, a center for the NBA’s Phoenix Suns, and left just one survivor, 4-yearold Cecelia Cichan of Tempe, Arizona. The accident was determined to have been caused by pilot error, with speculation that the pilots might have been rushing their pre-flight checks to avoid incoming bad weather.

• On Aug. 17, 1977, the day after Elvis Presley died, FTD delivered more than 3,100 floral arrangements, not only cleaning out Memphis-area florists, but setting a record for the most flowers sold in America in just one day.

© 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.

1. MOVIES: Who is Luke and Leia’s mother in the “Star Wars” movies?

2. GEOGRAPHY: The country of Suriname is on which continent?

3. HISTORY: Which 5th-century conqueror was known as “the Scourge of God”?

4. TELEVISION: Who is the creator of the quirky sitcom “Community”?

5. ANATOMY: What kind of blood vessels carry blood away from the heart?

6. MYTHOLOGY: In Greek mythology, who turned everything he touched into gold?

7. U.S. STATES: Which state was the 50th and last to join the union?

8. LITERATURE: Who wrote the novel “A Clockwork Orange”?

9. FOOD & DRINK: Which vegetable is used to make baba ganoush?

10. CHEMISTRY: What is the common name for acetic acid? Answers

1. Padme Amidala.

2. South America.

3. Attila the Hun.

4. Dan Harmon. 5. Arteries.

6. King Midas. 7. Hawaii. 8. Anthony Burgess. 9. Eggplant. 10. Vinegar.

© 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.

Kotek’s

SHUMWAY

JULIA

Oregon Capital Chronicle

Gov. Tina Kotek’s plan to prevent layoffs at the Oregon Department of Transportation and local governments around the state relies on a 6-cent gas tax increase, hikes to title and registration fees and doubling the payroll tax that funds transit.

Kotek laid out the basics of her plan during a press conference Wednesday, July 23, a day after announcing she would postpone planned layoffs for 45 days and call lawmakers back for a special session on Aug. 29

“I am confident that next month, legislators are going to show up, they’re going to approve the necessary funding for the state’s transportation needs, and I truly appreciate

Column

From Page A5

has always been the only way to make clear you’re talking about the letter P and not the combo PS.

their partnership right now to address the crisis that is facing the state when it comes to transportation,” Kotek said. The plan she laid out on Wednesday includes: Increasing the state’s 40-cent gas tax to 46 cents, splitting that difference between the state transportation department and local governments. The state would receive 50% of the increase, Oregon’s 36 counties would get 30% and cities would receive 20%.

• A $42 increase to vehicle registration fees, which now range from $126 to $156 depending on a car’s age and miles per gallon.

• A $30 supplemental fee for electric vehicles, which now cost $316 to register for two years.

Other times, instinct isn’t the best guide for knowing when an apostrophe can form a plural. Often, plurals that “look wrong” are right. “We saw the emus at the zoo” could leave you wondering what an emus, presumably pronounced ee-muss, is. If you read “there are two Enzos in my class,” it might take you a moment to work out

• A $139 increase to the state’s title fee, which now ranges from $101 to $116 for gas cars or $192 for electric vehicles.

• Doubling the current 0 1% payroll tax for transit to 0 2%.

• Committing to implementing a per-mile charge for electric vehicles and hybrids at some point in the next few years.

• Repealing references to tolling left over from a 2017 transportation package. At the time, lawmakers intended to introduce tolling to pay for improvements on roads including Interstate 205 in the Portland area, but Kotek has since declared a moratorium on tolls for everything but a replacement bridge on Interstate 5 connecting Oregon and Washington.“We

that it’s two people named Enzo. Ditto that for Aris and Lulus and Elis. My guess is that around 90% of people would write those plurals as emu’s, Enzo’s, Ari’s, Lulu’s and Eli’s.” But that would be a mistake. Just because a possessive S suggests a weird

are on a pause across the system on tolling outside of the interstate bridge, and I want to make that very clear in the bill,” Kotek said.

Republican legislative leaders were quick to criticize Kotek’s call for a special session on Tuesday, saying Democrats didn’t consider their counterproposals to fund the department by cutting spending elsewhere.

“Just weeks after the Legislature rejected the largest tax increase in Oregon history, the governor is calling us back to Salem to try again, this time with less notice and less transparency,” Senate Minority Leader Daniel Bonham, R-The Dalles, said in a statement. “Oregonians deserve roads that work, bridges that last and a government that puts them first,

pronunciation doesn’t mean you can add an apostrophe. Instinct also leads people to put apostrophes in plural numbers: “The band was popular in the 1990’s.” That, too, is wrong. It’s 1990s. Perhaps people who do that are thinking of the apostrophe that represents dropped numerals in

not more status quo policies and backroom deals to reward special interests.”

Kotek said she’s confident the bill has the support it needs to pass the Legislature, where bills to increase taxes require 36 representatives from the 60-member House and 18 senators in the 30-person Senate, but she’s not sure yet which Republicans will vote for it.

She disagreed with Bonham and House Republican Leader Christine Drazan that the state can cut money from elsewhere to pay for transportation needs, especially as the state braces for federal budget cuts.

“I think it would be imprudent for us to take those dollars for transportation while we have a predictable,

“the ’90s.” But that’s a correct use of an apostrophe, unlike one before a plural S. If you’re making a word or number plural and you’re tempted to add an apostrophe, add that to your list of don’ts, unless there’s a special rule that says it belongs on your list of do’s.

traditional way to fund it,” Kotek said.

She also rejected Bonham’s proposal that she reduce costs by reversing her 2024 executive order requiring union labor in many state construction projects, saying that it’s a separate conversation than funding basic services.

The Aug. 29 special session comes two days after the state’s next quarterly revenue forecast, at which point lawmakers should have a clearer idea of the impact of tariffs and federal funding cuts than they did when they crafted their budget for the next two years in May and June. But Kotek said that forecast and its impacts to the state general fund is also separate from a

Dallas Days

Kotek

From Page A7

push to pay for transportation needs.

“I do believe, and mostly because of federal budget cuts, that we will be having a general fund conversation going into the next year’s session,” she said. “But I think that is, in my mind, separate from the transportation discussion.”

https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2025/07/23/ koteks-transportation-plan-6cent-gas-tax-increase-registration-fee-hikes-and-doubledtransit-tax/ Oregon Capital Chronicle is part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Oregon Capital Chronicle maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Lynne Terry for questions: info@oregoncapitalchronicle. com.

Five tips for busy parents to reduce stress

Parenting is a rewarding journey, and it can also be a source of stress.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, while some stress can motivate and build resilience, excessive stress without healthy coping mechanisms can lead to harmful effects on physical and mental health.

Here are a few tips to reduce stress and embrace mindful parenting:

1. Prioritize self-care: Carving out time for yourself isn’t selfish — it’s essential. Whether it’s a quiet cup of coffee in the morning or a short evening walk, these moments recharge your batteries, making you more present for your family.

2. Connect with your children: Dedicate quality time to engage with your kids without distractions. This strengthens your bond and provides a sense of fulfillment. Pediatricians recommend 15 to 30 minutes of dedicated time for a meaningful impact.

3. Build a support network: Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family or support groups. Sharing experiences and seeking advice can provide new perspectives and emotional relief.

4. Maintain healthy routines: Establish consistent routines for meals, bedtime and activities. Predictability provides a sense of security for you and your children.

5. Seek professional help when needed: If stress becomes overwhelming, consider consulting a mental health professional. They can offer strategies tailored to your situation.

Parenting is a journey, not a destination. It’s about making small, intentional changes that lead to a more balanced and joyful family life.

AudioFlex makes debut at Dallas concert series July 31

By DAVID HAYES I-O Editor

For Cary Stepper, July 22

was a very sad day for rock and roll and metal.

As the lead singer of AudioFlex, the death of Ozzy Osbourne struck a personal note for the long-time rocker.

“We were playing a private gig (last) weekend. We had just added three Ozzy songs last month,” Stepper said. “So we’re going to be paying homage to the prince of darkness.”

Their homage continues this week when AudioFlex debuts their brand of rock to the Dallas Sounds of Summer concert series Thursday at the Rotary Performing Arts Stage.

While the group itself formed just under two years ago, AudioFlex’s members all from the north end of the Willamette Valley, have a long history in the music industry.

Stepper grew up in the 80s, so initially she was into Pat Benatar but gravitated more toward metal as a genre.

“I pretty much wanted to sing my whole life, but it took until eight years ago that I actually started performing with bands,” Stepper said, who has been an esthetician

for the past 17 years for her day job. “I’ve always loved music. But I was on the worship team at church for 20 years, a worship leader as well. Then I finally decided to do some rock and roll with a band.”

So, she took to the internet to find the best musicians to construct a band out of - Band Mix. It’s a website, a sort of Facebook for musicians, to go on there and build a profile, connect with other musicians.

Stepper feels they struck gold assembling their team.

Lead guitarist John Heick, a full time musician and personal trainer, has been playing in the industry since his 20s and even has his own “six degrees of Kevin Bacon” connection to Ozzy Osbourne. His band opened for Zakk Wylde, a former guitarist for Ozzy.

Drummer Byron Hall is also a personal trainer and is in his first year as band director of the award winning band program at Sherwood High School.

And bass guitarist Isiah Black works for a consulting firm.

“We like to say, tongue in cheek, our tagline is ‘music with muscle,’ because it

is pretty heavy hitting and because of all our personal trainers,” Stepper said, Her praise for her bandmates doesn’t end with their physical prowess.

“We probably have one of the most amazing guitarists in the valley. People need to experience him. All the guys are next level. These guys are top notch,” Stepper said. “They’re all squared away. There’s no issues with drugs or alcohol. We’re all very professional. Music comes first.”

AudioFlex plays all covers, mostly 80s rock and metal. Stepper said they also throw in some other hits into their set, including Miley Cyrus, Maroon 5, Alanis Morissette and Blonde. She added the music they choose is guitar centered rock and if they go the pop route, they put a more rock vibe to it, heavy on the guitar.

“It makes us danceable, so we like to throw in more current music,” Stepper said. “We want to make sure people are having a good time. So we pick our music so when people hear a song start, they go, ‘Oh my gosh, I love that song! And they want to get up and dance.”

AudioFlex debuts the Dallas concert series July 31.

So far, AudioFlex has been touring a lot of restaurant lounges, bars and private parties. Lately, they’ve expanded to outdoor venues, including Carlton Fun Days and now their debut at Dallas Sounds of Summer Concert Series.

“It’s a lot of fun especially in the summer time, people milling around. It seems people are in a good mood, the sun is shining and they’re enjoying live music,” Stepper said. ““We love it. Everybody loves feeding off the energy of the crowd.”

Polk County Special Olympics team wins medals at state games

The Polk County Special Olympics team traveled to Oregon State University July 12-13 for the State Finals in track and field, bocce ball, golf and softball.

In a field of more than 1,100 participants, Polk County returned with several top five finishes and a team award.

The Polk County team was led by coordinators Madonna and Ron Drummond.

“It was a weekend filled with competition, camaraderie, celebration and sportsmanship,” Madonna said.

The Summer State Games are the state championships for athletics (track & field),

bocce, golf, and softball for Special Olympics athletes in Oregon. All athletes and Unified partners train in their hometowns for a minimum of eight weeks and qualify to compete at the Summer State Games through regional-level competitions held around the state.

The Polk County Team won the following awards: Bocce ball Third Place - Katelyn Worthington and Olivia Jacot Fourth Place - Heather Fritzinger and Lydia Meyers Track and Field Relay Second Place Ryan Poulsen, James “Bubba”

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

The Polk County Special Olympics team takes the field during opening ceremonies July 12 at Oregon State University.

Young, Kamari Blacksmith and Joseph Pomeroy Softball

Polk County Warriors won the Spirit Award Delegates are housed in the campus dorms at Oregon State University. Special events included Olympic Town festival areas, health screenings, Law Enforcement Torch Run Final Leg, the parade of athletes and opening ceremonies, a victory dance and a Saturday night delegates dinner.

The Drummonds said they couldn’t lead the Polk County team to success without a lot of help. They gave credit to the following volunteers:

Softball - Coaches Leimomi Russell, Ramerio Demelo, Teresa Rhoades Bocce – Coaches Mark, Barbara and Gabrielle Worthington Track & Field – Shana and Dave Lavier, Donavan Sims, Brianne Huff, Knox Boyd, Ron and Madonna Drummond.

Late July - Watch FB Special Olympics Oregon –Polk County and our website Fall Sports are beginning in September. Athletes and coaches/volunteers are also needed. To sign up to participate or volunteer, go to www.soo

Taken by the Sky returns to at River’s Edge Aug. 1

I-O STAFF REPORT

As the lead singer of a tribute band, Jessa Campbell knows it takes more than just running through a set list of a group’s greatest hits. You must channel the inner turmoil of the group as it was originally lived to best present the music to a modern audience. In this case, Fleetwood Mac.

“Before each show I mentally prepare by looking at our Lindsey Buckingham and thinking

‘You left me, told me to go my own way, and now I’m going to sing songs about you never being able to escape the sound of my voice,’” Campbell said, who sings the lead vocals of Stevie Nicks. “We laugh about it together once the show is done.” Her tribute band, Taken by the Sky, makes its return trip to Independence Aug. 1 at 7 p.m. as part of the River’s Edge Summer Concert Series at Riverview Park in Independence.

Taken by the Sky’s musicians also include Lawrence Orleck (Buckingham), Colin Hogan (Christine McVie), Brian Link (John McVie) and Theo Larcomb (Mick Fleetwood). Campbell said the group of accomplished musicians naturally gravitated toward paying tribute to the iconic 70s band.

“We chose Fleetwood Mac because their music resonates deeply with us, and we wanted to honor their legacy by bringing their music to the stage,” she said. “Thankfully, we all get along with one another, so the hardest part is bringing that sense of turmoil Fleetwood Mac experienced to the stage.”

Taken by the Sky also performs songs from Stevie Nicks’s solo career, including such staples as “Edge of Seventeen,” “Stand Back” and “Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around.” Campbell said Nicks is one of the most iconic figures in the music industry.

“(Nicks’) voice, captivating stage presence, and unique

fashion sense have made her a legend,” Campbell said. “On stage, Stevie embodies a sense of mysticism, vulnerability, and power that captivates audiences.”

Campbell said the difference between a band that plays a group’s greatest hits and a band that pays tribute to the original is that the tribute band brings generations together.

“They allow fans to relive the experience of seeing their favorite artists perform, especially when the original band is no longer actively touring or performing,” Campbell said. “Tribute bands help preserve the cultural impact and musical heritage of these legendary bands, ensuring that future generations can enjoy and appreciate their music.”

Campbell added that the industry’s circle of tribute bands can be quite competitive. There are many talented musicians paying homage to various legendary artists.

What sets Taken by the Sky apart, Campbell said, is their

commitment to capturing the essence of Fleetwood Mac.

“We’ve spent countless hours watching various live performances from the band and selected versions of the songs we found to land the strongest with our audience,” she said. “Attention to detail, from the music arrangements to the costumes and stage presence, is crucial in recreating the magic of the original band.”

She added sometimes these versions come straight from studio recordings, while other times they come from iconic live performances of songs like “Rhiannon” and “You Make Loving Fun.”

Taken by the Sky formed three years ago when Campbell decided it would be a privilege to sing as Nicks.

“I asked my friends in my music community whom I thought would be the perfect fit for every role, and they all agreed,” Campbell said.

Taken by the Sky has shows booked throughout summer. Friday marks just

their second ever performance in Independence.

“Local fans can expect an evening filled with classic Fleetwood Mac hits, passionate performances, and a genuine tribute to the music that has touched so many lives,” Campbell said. “We always strive to deliver an unforgettable experience to our audience.”

opening act SureFire

PAGES OF THE PAST FLASHBACK

50 years ago

Wednesday, July 30, 1975

Board of directors fire

S&L president Newton Family Federal Savings and Loan Association president Newton, 50, was terminated as president last week by a 5-1 vote of the board of directors. Board members later announced that the action was triggered by personnel problems at the local branch, and that Newton was “administratively incapable” of handling those problems.

Bill Dalton, chairman of the board, said following the action that Newton’s immediate resignation was demanded by the board, and that in case his resignation was got given, the board went ahead and voted 5-1 to terminate his position.

Former I-O publisher heads statewide group

G.M. (Jerry) Reed, publisher of the Hermiston Herald, was elected president of the Oregon Newspaper Publishers Association for 1975-76 during the group’s summer meeting at Sunriver July 12

A newspaper man for 16 years, in 1967 Reed became publisher of the Dallas Polk County Itemizer-Observer. Three years later, he became co-owner with Marjorie Bartlett of the Hermiston weekly and served as acting publisher. Since 1973, he has been the sole owner and publisher of the Herald.

Dallas girls eligible for national slowpitch finals

A fired up Dallas team became the Oregon State Amateur Softball Association Champions in tournament play last weekend in Dallas.

By winning the tournament, Dallas became eligible to go

Community Achievement

to Satalite, Florida, for the national Finals Aug. 15-17

The tournament held on Lyle Field ended the two-month competition of Mountain-Valley Softball League.

40 Years Ago

Wednesday, July 31, 1985

Polk to look at pay levels

With one commissioner calling the county’s salary structure “archaic,” Polk

County commissioners agreed last week to implement a fullscale study of county salary levels.

At the same meeting July 24, commissioners also approved a 5 percent salary increase for non-union employees similar to one received by union members July 1

Jail remodeling completed

When someone gets booked in the Polk County Jail, it’s not the same as it used to be.

Remodeling in the jail has given the facility a new look - and added security, according to Polk County Sheriff’s Office officials.

The county spent approximately $100,000 to remodel the structure, which houses 44 beds in three different cell blocks and is stationed on the third floor of the Polk County Courthouse.

The main feature of the remodeling project is the new control center, which gives the jail an added dimension in security because of its

Sheriff swears in several new employees

The last several weeks have been busy with new employees starting their training and completing the Oath of Office at the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

Joining the patrol division are deputies Robert Gibney, Stevan Parra and Josh Dixon. Gibney and Dixon join as new recruits, while Parra returned to the PCSO after a short leave. Gibney and Dixon will complete a field training and evaluation program and also attend the DPSST basic police academy to become certified law enforcement officers. Parra is already certified and familiar with PCSO, so he only needed a short reintroduction period before getting back on the road. Joining the ranks at the jail are Deputy Kelly Christenson and CT (corrections technician) Samantha Tuck. Deputy Christenson comes to PCSO with experience from Lincoln County Jail, so she will not need to attend the academy for corrections certification, but she will complete an FTEP period so she can familiarize herself with the differences between the agencies. Tuck will work through FTEP as well to become familiar with all of the tasks required of someone working in the control room. Corrections technicians help maintain the safety and efficiency of the facility by tracking the movements and activity of staff, inmates, and visitors of the jail.

School, placed fifth in the

last weekend at the Junior Olympics national meet. Bryne scored 4,222 points, a personal best, among 18 competitors and eared AllAmerican honors.

Community Calendar July 30- Aug 6

Wednesday, July 30

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

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

11:30 a.m. - Yeates Academy of Irish Dance, Dallas City Park, SeibertFredrickson Memorial Shelter

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

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

2 p.m. - Coding and Circuit Crafting, Monmouth Public Library, 168 Ecols St. S.

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

6:30 p.m. - Music in the Park: Pachanga, Main Street Park, 120 Main St. E., Monmouth

Thursday, July 31

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

9 a.m. - Trip to Lincoln City, meet at the 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. - Master Gardener Chat: Pest Control, Monmouth Senior Community Center

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

11 a.m. - Creatively Expressing Grief, Monmouth Senior Community Center

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

1:30 p.m. - 10-Minute

Writing, Dallas Area Senior Center

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

7 p.m. - Dallas Sounds of Summer Free Concert Series: AudioFlex, Rotary Performing Arts Stage

Friday, Aug. 1 8 a.m. - Yoga, Monmouth Senior Community Center

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

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

10 a.m. – Six handed Pinochle/Art Workshop/

Queen, princess applicants sought for IM Community Fiesta Applicants are being sought to be IM Community Fiesta Queen and Princesses. Due to a generous sponsorship from Jenny Renner at Alatorre State Farm, the queen will win $500 and two princesses will win $250 each. All will get $100 towards their formal dress and be in the 2026 4th of July Parade. Application forms are available online at https://form.jotform. com/251368543165157

Candidates should be good students, involved in helping others through school or community events or programs, and 14-18 years old. Winners will debut at Fiesta de da Cumumidad Aug. 22-24 at Independence Riverview Park. They will then represent the fiesta at various community events throughout the year. The deadline to apply is Aug. 13

Dallas Library hosts Yeates Academy of Irish Dance July 30

The Dallas Public Library presents a performance of the Yeates Academy of Irish Dance, at 11:30 a.m. June 30 at the Dallas City Park SeibertFredrickson Memorial

Cards/Table Games,

Dallas Area Senior Center

10 a.m. - Gardening Class, Dallas Area Senior Center

10:30 a.m. - Acrylic/ Watercolor Painting Class, Monmouth Senior Community Center

1 p.m. - Tai Chi with Cheryl/Lunch & Learn, 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.

6 p.m. - Rivers Edge Summer Concert Series: Opening Act - Surefire (70s & 80s classics); Headliner - Taken by the Sky (Fleetwood Mac tribute); $5 at the gate

6 p.m. - Live Music: Black Smith Neighbors, Elysium Botanicals Wines and Vineyard, 8175 Buena Vista Road, Independence

6 p.m. - Live Music: Drey Tucker, Two Wolves Taproom, 171 SW Court St., Dallas

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

Saturday, Aug. 2

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

Senior Community Center

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

9 a.m. - Dallas Farmers Market, Courthouse Lawn, Main St.

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

NW

1 p.m. - Live Music: Blacksmith Neighbors, Van Duzer Vineyards, 11975 Smithfield Rd, Dallas

6 p.m. - Live Music: Nathan Myers, Elysium Botanicals Wines and

Shelter. The Yeates Academy Performance Dancers are recognized for their professional image and unique performances. The Yeates Academy of Irish Dance is an established dance academy and is the longest running Irish dance school in Oregon and Southwest Washington.

Last chance to sign up for pickleball class

The Dallas Pickleball Club is offering free lessons on Tuesdays in August. This is the last month of free lessons for this year. To sign up for lessons go to https:// signup.com/go/nvYprMa. For more information go to https://www.dallaspickleballclub.net/lessons.

Heron Pointe hosts Alzheimer’s bingo fundraiser Aug. 1

Heron Pointe Senior Living hosts a bingo fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Association from 7-8:30 p.m., Aug. 1 at 504 Gwinn St E, Monmouth. Participating must RSVP to (503) 822-7320. Cards are $5 each, with no pre-sales. There will also be a 50/50 raffle and quilt and raffle baskets tickets for sale.

Vineyard, 8175 Buena Vista Road, Independence

Sunday, Aug. 3

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: Orvil Ivie, Elysium Botanicals Wines and Vineyard, 8175 Buena Vista Road, Independence

Monday, Aug. 4

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

1 p.m. - Tai Chi with Cheryl/Technology Help with Ian, 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 p.m. - Dallas City Council work study session, City Hall, 187 SE Court St.

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

Community Briefs

Xtreme Dance Company hosts summer camp Aug. 1-3

Xtreme Dance Company hosts Xtreme Summer Dance Camp Aug. 1-3 at Dallas High School, 921 SE Ash St. Participate in three days of fun, movement and creativity. The camp is open to dancers pre-k through 11 grade. All levels and styles are welcome. Register online at https://bit.ly/3IMLZEP.

Polk County

Democrats host Pride Festival booth Aug. 2

The Polk County Democrats are sponsoring a booth at the Falls City Pride Festival from 1-8 p.m. on Aug. 2. Come by and visit, where you’ll find pins, posters, and yard signs for sale. Voter information and lively conversation are free.

Cities host combined National Night Out party on Aug. 5

The cities of Monmouth and Independence are hosting a National Night Out Party from 6-8 p.m. Aug. 5 at Faith Lutheran Church, 200 MonmouthIndependence Highway.

Bring the whole family to a relaxed backyard barbeque with local first responders, featuring food, drinks and lawn games in a true, block party style.

7 p.m. - Dallas City Council meeting, City Hall, 187 SE Court St.

7 p.m. - Independence Planning Commission meeting, City Hall, 555 South Main St

Tuesday, Aug. 5

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

5 p.m. - National Night Out, a neighborhood near you

5:30 p.m. - Dallas Urban Renewal District Advisory Committee

Polk County Democrats set up Polk County Fair booth

The Polk County Democrats are sponsoring a booth at the Polk County Fair from 2-10 p.m. on Aug..6 and from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Aug. 7-9. Come by and visit, where you’ll find pins, posters, and yard signs for sale. Voter information and lively conversation are free.

4-H offers youth Art Studio course Aug. 13

Oregon 4-H Polk County presents Summer Open Art Studio, from 11 a.m. to noon, Aug. 13 at 289 E Ellendale Ave, Dallas. Join for an unstructured time of art. This studio time lets youth ages 5-18 explore various art forms without the cost of purchasing supplies. Whether youth are trying something new or experimenting with different techniques, all materials are provided. Free for enrolled 4-H youth; $5 for non 4-H youth. Sign up online at https://bit. ly/3IF67sv.

Fairgrounds hosts rock, gem and minerals show Aug. 15-17

Ken N Bonnie Stubenrauch and Willamette

meeting, City Hall, 187 SE Court St.

6:30 p.m. - Monmouth City Council meeting, 151 Main St. W.

Wednesday, Aug. 6

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

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

2 p.m. - Coding and Circuit Crafting, Monmouth Public Library, 168 Ecols St. S. 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 6:30 p.m. - Music in the Park: The Shinkle Band, Main Street Park, 120 Main St. E., Monmouth

Agate & Mineral Society, Inc. present the End of Summer Rock, Gem and Mineral Show, Aug. 15-17 at the Polk County Fairgrounds, 520 S. Pacific Highway. There will be indoor and outdoor booths highlighting collectible rocks, gems and minerals. The show is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.

MICC Summer Taste Tour is Aug. 16 The MonmouthIndependence Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center

Make It Known Media as been named the Monmouth-Independence Chamber of Commerce Member of the Week.

Make It Know Media is run by the incredibly talented Seth Halligan. The business originated in Monmouth and has expanded in its reach due to its reputation for high-quality and effective work.

The statements on their website, makeitknownmedia.com, say it all: “We turn your vision into a professionally tailored video that amplifies your message and ensures it makes the impact it deserves. We work closely with you to create content that is clear, engaging, and built to last.”

Make It Known Media comes highly recommended by both the Chamber and their many satisfied customers.

To learn more about the Monmouth-Independence Chamber of Commerce, and to see some of Make It Known Media’s videography, visit micc-or.org.

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

Thursday, July 17

At 3:07 a.m., an officer contacted two juveniles on Fern Avenue. The officer explained park hours, and warned them for being out after curfew.

At 6:09 a.m., a report of a disturbance on Walnut Avenue. It was an issue between tenants and an officer explained the individual would need to go through the civil eviction process.

At 7:31 a.m., a report of criminal mischief on Godsey Road. The investigation is ongoing.

At 7:44 a.m., a report of a vehicle failing to maintain its lane on Perrydale Road. The vehicle was located in Dallas and the driver showed no signs of impairment.

At 11:11 a.m., a report of animal neglect on Jefferson Street. A dog was tethered but was in the shade with food and water available.

At 11:22 p.m., a juvenile motorist was warned for unnecessary noise for a super loud exhaust and for speed racing.

Friday, July 18

At 12:50 a.m., a motorist was cited for driving while suspended, failure to carry and present a license. The driver was warned for operating the vehicle without required lighting.

At 2:18 a.m., a motorist on Ellendale Avenue was cited for failure to provide proof of financial responsibility. The rider was given a written warning for speeding 46 mph in a 35-mph zone and a verbal warning for failure to renew registration.

At 8:21 a.m., a report of suspicious activity on Ellendale Avenue. An officer was unable to locate the juveniles that had reportedly been lighting fireworks in the church parking lot.

At 8:41 a.m., a motorist was cited for driving without an operator’s license. The driver was also warned for failure to obey a traffic control device and failure to carry and present a driver’s license.

At 9:32 a.m., a report of a dog left in a vehicle due to the owner going to the hospital. An individual was located who could leave work and get the dog.

At 12:28 p.m., a report of a theft on Ellendale Avenue.

At 1:30 p.m., a report of a hit and run to a parked vehicle on Rainbow Avenue.

At 2:46 p.m., a report of a domestic disturbance on Hayter Street. The individual wanted Dallas Police to stand by while retrieving some belongings. The subject was informed that Dallas Police do not perform civil standbys.

At 5:19 p.m., a motorist was cited for speeding 40 mph in a 20-mph zone on Main Street.

At 8:51 p.m., officers responded to an alarm on Kings Valley Highway. The cleaning company had set off the alarm.

At 8:59 p.m., an officer responded to an alarm on Ellendale Avenue. An employee neglected to lock the front door and a customer walked in thinking the store was open.

At 9:51 p.m., a report of a disturbance on Court Street. A subject was told to leave the bar for the night.

At 10:45 p.m., a motorist on Godsey Road was cited for speeding 54 mph in a 40-mph zone.

Saturday, July 19

At 12:33 a.m., a noise complaint of loud music at the car wash. The individuals agreed to turn the music down.

At 3:44 a.m., a report of a suspicious vehicle on Ellendale Avenue. The driver was looking for a quiet place to sleep on a road trip from Canada.

At 5:40 a.m., a motorist was cited for driving while suspended and failure to renew the vehicle registration.

At 8:11 a.m., a report of a counterfeit bill used for a purchase on Kings Valley Highway.

At 9:21 a.m., a juvenile motorist was cited for illegal backing after backing into a vehicle on Cherry Street.

At 10:49 a.m., a report of a vehicle broken into on Hankel Street.

At 4:19 p.m., a report of a theft on Kings Valley Highway.

At 6:14 p.m., a report of a theft on Kings Valley Highway.

At 6:29 p.m., a report of a theft of CO2 canisters on Washington Street.

At 9:59 p.m., a motorist on Uglow Avenue was cited for speeding and failure to obey a traffic control device.

At 11:53 p.m., an officer contacted three juveniles hanging out at the park on Uglow Avenue. They were advised of park hours and of curfew.

Sunday, July 20

At 1:15 p.m., a report of a vehicle that ran into a light pole on Levens Street. The driver reported not knowing who to contact. An officer advised contacting law enforcement if a similar situation happened again.

At 2:06 p.m., a motorist on Maple Street was cited for driving without an operator’s license, driving uninsured and failure to display license plates.

At 3:00 p.m., a report of suspicious activity on Ellendale Avenue. The subject was reported to have been recording vehicles but said they were just waiting for the bus.

At 5:10 p.m., a report of a vehicle being broken into on A Street.

At 5:28 p.m., a report of a theft from a vehicle and theft of a bike on Walnut Avenue. There was video footage of the suspect.

At 5:50 p.m., a report of a domestic disturbance on Walnut Avenue.

At 6:16 p.m., a motorist on Jefferson Street was cited for failure to register their vehicle.

At 7:26 p.m., a report of harassment on Academy Street.

At 9:16 p.m., an individual on Main Street was arrested on an outstanding warrant.

At 10:48 p.m., a report of harassment on Polk Station Road. Officers are investigating a possible restraining order violation.

At 11:47 p.m., a report of a domestic disturbance on Fern Avenue. There was a minor physical altercation but nothing criminal.

Monday, July 21

At 2:48 a.m., a report of a domestic disturbance on Uglow Avenue. It was a verbal altercation and the intoxicated subject was gone when the officer arrived.

At 3:27 a.m., an officer contacted a homeless person sleeping in front of Mira Mar. The officer advised them they needed to be gone by morning.

At 7:45 a.m., a specialized bike was found behind a dumpster on Ellendale Avenue. It was taken to temporary storage.

At 8:39 a.m., a report of trespassing on Levens Street.

It was a civil matter.

At 9:37 a.m., a report of a stolen bike on Court Street.

At 10:26 a.m., a report of suspicious activity on Ash Street. A suspicious letter was sent to the Dallas School District.

At 1:17 p.m., a report of fraud regarding an unauthorized transfer of funds.

At 5:08 p.m., a report of harassment on Uglow Avenue. One of the juveniles was referred for disorderly conduct.

At 7:39 p.m., a report of a suspicious person on Ellendale Avenue. When the officer arrived the subject was wandering around looking for cigarettes.

At 10:38 p.m., Allen Barnes was arrested on Washington Street and charged with criminal trespass.

Tuesday, July 22

At 3:14 a.m., an officer responded to an alarm on Court Street. The building appeared secure.

At 7:15 a.m., police won the Battle of the Badges grocery shopping competition at Grocery Outlet against the Dallas Fire Department.

At 10:06 a.m., a report of an alarm on Ellendale Avenue. The exterior of the building was locked.

At 10:37 a.m., a report of a suspicious person on Polk Station Road. The subject appeared to be under the influence and was looking for a park.

At 10:59 a.m., a motorist was cited for failure to carry and present a license, driving while suspended and driving uninsured. The rider was given a written warning for speeding 38 mph in a 25-mph zone.

At 11:57 a.m., a request for a welfare check on Kings Valley Highway. The individual said they were fine.

At 3:19 p.m., an individual was cited and released on a failure to appear warrant.

At 4:22 p.m., a report of possible animal neglect on Jefferson Street. A dog had a crate, food, water and shade.

At 7:27 p.m., a report of harassment on Church Street.

A subject was watching girls paint windows and when asked to leave the subject threw water on the girls.

At 7:54 p.m., a report of a suspicious person wandering Broadmore Court. The subject was on the way to find a bus.

At 9:36 p.m., a report of a suspicious person on Court Street. Justo Juaregui was arrested and charged with violating a restraining order.

At 11:10 p.m., a report of juveniles fighting in the park on La Creole Drive. The complainant later confirmed they were playing.

Wednesday, July 23

At 6:01 a.m., a report of a person sleeping in the bus shelter. The bus showed up on the officer’s arrival and both occupants got on the bus.

At 6:40 a.m., a report of a found wallet. The wallet was returned to the owner and he advised the money was missing.

At 8:31 a.m., a motorist on Main Street was cited for speeding 48 mph in a 20-mph zone.

At 9:01 p.m., a homeless person was found sleeping behind a dumpster on Washington Street. The subject was going to a bus stop to leave town.

At 9:50 a.m., a report of a gas leak on Douglas Street. Dallas Fire handled the call.

At 10:59 a.m., a motorist on Washington Street was cited for driving without a license. The driver was warned for expired registration.

At 2:30 p.m., a report of a suspicious person at the park on Brandvold Drive. An officer was unable to locate the individual.

At 2:48 p.m., a report of a theft of a stereo from a truck on Ellendale Avenue.

At 6:22 p.m., a report of a vehicle driving the wrong way on Main Street.

At 8:47 p.m., a motorist on Gooseneck Road was cited for speed racing and unnecessary noise.

At 11:02 p.m., a noise complaint of loud kids on Walnut Avenue. The officer will speak to management.

Monmouth Police Department

Thursday, July 17

Talon Torok, 19, was arrested and charged with driving under the influence of an intoxicant, two counts of elude, reckless driving and misrepresentation of age by minor.

John Gilbert, 46, was arrested and charged with driving while suspended - misdemeanor.

EDP: A person reported concerns about property, vehicle tampering and being followed. The caller’s story was incoherent and fast-paced, and they struggled with mental health issues. No evidence of crimes was found.

Suspicious Activity: A person called on behalf of an elderly neighbor who received a scam call from a company promising an award and saying they would show up at their door. The neighbor had not lost any money or given their address. The caller said they would be with the neighbor and call back if someone appeared.

Arrest: A motorist was stopped due to a suspended license. Since the suspension was ending soon, the driver was cited and released.

Driving: Multiple reports of a black vehicle swerving and nearly causing accidents. The vehicle was located and continued to drive erratically, making an improper lane change. The driver acted erratically and spoke quickly. Field sobriety tests were performed, but probable cause for impaired driving was not developed. The complaints were explained, and the driver was cited for a license violation.

Animal: A person reported one of their dogs barking and crying non-stop for 30 minutes, unsure which neighbor it was. No dogs were seen or heard after checking the area.

Noise: A person called about continuous noise from an air conditioning unit by a library. Sound readings were taken, and the noise was consistent all night. A follow-up with facilities management was planned.

Information: An individual found a loose dog in the county, and agreed to keep it overnight for the sheriff’s office.

Friday, July 18

Alarm: An ATM alarm was activated after a customer used it and left. No signs of damage or crime were found, and the bank was contacted.

Ordinance Violation: A report of an RV/trailer parked by City Hall. The owner was informed it was in a two-hour parking zone and promised to move it today.

Crash: A delayed report of a crash, as the other driver’s insurance company could not reach the other involved driver. The driver was informed it was not a hit and run and not something a report would be taken on.

EDP: Officers responded to a person attempting self-harm. Contact was made, and no visible injuries were present. The person was upset about not having medication. Medics checked the subject who refused transport to a local hospital, only wanting to go to a larger hospital. A safety plan was created with house staff, and no immediate danger was observed.

Driving: A report of a possible impaired driver in a dark SUV but the vehicle was not located.

Arrest: An individual was cited and released for a specific violation.

Disturbance: A disturbance was reported at a residence. An involved individual stated her boyfriend and sister were spraying each other with a hose and messing around. Everyone appeared calm and denied an argument. Children were asleep and not seen or heard.

Saturday, July 19

Suspicious Activity: A report of two individuals seen on camera at a construction site. They appeared to be young and wearing all black. The property was checked, and one door was open, but the unit was cleared with no obvious damage found nor either of the suspects. A neighbor saw the individuals earlier but said they were just walking around.

Deceased: An older female was reported unconscious, with someone performing CPR. Upon arrival, the individual was pronounced deceased. Due to the condition of the residence and difficulty obtaining history, the county prosecutor responded. The medical examiner did not respond but placed a hold on the body. Next of kin was present and notified.

Citizen Contact: A person reported nearly backing into another parked car while leaving a parking lot. They checked for damage and saw none, but another customer became upset and yelled. The caller wanted to inform authorities in case someone called in. No additional calls were received.

Crash: A two-vehicle traffic accident, partially blocking the road with no injuries, occurred. One vehicle rearended another after it stopped for pedestrians in a crosswalk. Both vehicles were towed, and information was exchanged. The driver who caused the accident received a written warning for following too closely.

Domestic Disturbance/ EDP: What started as a mental health crisis involving a young person and their two mothers escalated into a physical domestic incident. When officers arrived, the young person ran on foot. The mothers did not wish to pursue charges for harassment or interfering with a report. The young person made suicidal statements and was later located. A crisis intervention team created a safety plan, and probable cause for a police hold was eventually lost.

Harassment: A person called to report being notified that someone tried to access their social media account from a location where their ex was for military training. The caller stated their ex had been harassing them and that they changed all their passwords. The caller was hesitant to provide the ex’s phone number and said they would handle it.

Driving Under the Influence: Officers responded to a vehicle versus parked car incident. The driver admitted to drinking and driving home. They were arrested and charged with driving under the influence of an intoxicant.

Sunday, July 20 Hit and Run: A report that a motorist hit a sign at an intersection, believed to be sometime Friday night. Photos were taken, and information was forwarded to public works.

Driving: A blue vehicle was reported speeding, but it was not located.

Citizen Contact: A person called asking about their towed vehicle. They were informed it was towed by a specific towing company and provided their number.

Check Welfare: A person explained that their 89-yearold father lived alone and they had not been able to reach

him. Upon arrival, no one answered the door. The father was seen laying on the ground, conscious, through a window. He was responding, and his back door was open with the screen door locked. Access was gained, and medics transported him to a hospital. The caller was updated.

Check Welfare: A person’s cousin called regarding concerns of self-harm texts, including a photo of a cut wrist from 2 a.m. on this date. They spoke later, and the person stated they did it because they wanted to die. A safety plan was created with the person’s mother.

Noise Complaint: A noise complaint was received regarding an area. The source was investigated with a decibel reader, showing an average reading of 57 2 dBA during a song.

Suspicious Person: A report of a subject shaking their rear end and yelling at children in a park. They were heavily intoxicated and were told to leave the park for the night, which they did cooperatively.

Fraud: A bystander reported seeing a male try to use a fake $100 bill at a store. After failing at one store, he went to another. The incident was reported to another police department for more information. The male’s vehicle was observed, and a female exited a store and entered the vehicle, but left after seeing police. The male was arrested, and it was discovered the female used a fake $100 bill at the second store, receiving about $60 in change. The male was found with $1,000 dollars in fake $100 bills. There is probable cause for the female. Follow-up for footage was planned, and other markets were checked for similar incidents.

Monday, July 21

Andrew Greiner, 37, was arrested and charged with reckless driving.

CPR: Active CPR was reported for a group home client found unconscious and not breathing. Compressions were continued until medics arrived and took over. Medics obtained a pulse, and the client was transported to a hospital.

Assistance to Other Agency: Multiple reports about 5-6 shots fired in an area, but no suspicious activity or damage was located.

Assistance to Other Agency: Assistance was provided on a report of a trespass at a store after staff reported an intoxicated male customer throwing garbage around in the parking lot. The individual was not located.

Assist Other Agency: Another agency requested help locating a stolen trailer. The victims had signed paperwork to transfer the title to a family member at the address. The trailer was not found, and it was recommended to call another county’s sheriff’s office as the report was out of that county. It was also suggested the trailer might be at the victim’s home if they had located it.

Hit and Run: A person hit a vehicle and left a note with their contact information but then stopped responding and did not provide required details. The victim did not want to pursue charges. When police went to the at-fault driver’s address to assist, the driver was very escalated and displayed erratic behavior and would not cooperate. The driver’s mother helped with the exchange, and her number was provided to the victim to resolve the issue. The victim later reported that the at-fault driver called back, changing their story and claiming it never happened.

Theft: An Amazon package was reported stolen sometime

Blotter

From Page B6

between 4:19-6:20 a.m.

Cameras could not be located.

Crime: A person reported their ex, who was lodged at a detention center, had called the day after the arrest, despite a restraining order. The ex also called a friend twice, trying to pass messages to the caller. Follow-up for jail phone calls was planned. A hangup call pinged to a location, but no one answered. The ping location was updated for a medical call.

Arrest: An individual was arrested and charged with reckless driving.

Tuesday, July 22

Daniel Morales, 26, was arrested on an outstanding warrant.

Suspicious Activity: A real estate broker reported issues with trespassers at a home. A key box code and location were provided. An attempt was made to reach the trustee for consent for officers to check the property freely, but there was no answer. Extra patrols around the property were requested.

Runaway: A 14-year-old ran away from home and was located in West Salem. While speaking with the 17-year-old sibling, the runaway started coming back home. They later called to confirm the runaway had returned. No further action was needed.

Driving: A report of a possibly impaired driver. The vehicle was located and stopped for failure to signal and speeding. The driver did not show any signs of impairment and stated they were trying to get to a store where they are a regional manager.

Theft: A report of three leaf blowers and a hedge trimmer stolen from a work truck overnight. The victim was going to work on getting possible camera footage from neighbors. No suspect information was available at that point.

Warrant: A person was arrested and lodged for a failure to appear warrant out of Polk County.

AOA: Officers covered another department as they took a person into custody.

Follow up: A person was referred for theft. Contact was attempted with three other individuals for the same incident at another address, but no one answered the door.

Wednesday, July 23

Andrea Kadell, 19, was arrested and charged with theft.

Jesse Settelmeyer, 50, was arrested on an outstanding warrant and was also charged with unlawful possession of methamphetamine and giving false information to an officer.

AOA: Officers covered another department on a possible domestic incident where a female jumped out of a truck and stated it was stolen and the male was going to return and shoot her. The truck was determined not to be stolen, and the female was too impaired to provide an interview or details. Officers did not locate the truck or male subject.

Alarm: A panic alarm was activated multiple times at a credit union. Managers confirmed there was no issue and believed an employee was bumping the button with their leg.

Trespass: A person trespassed at a business and stole tips from the counter. The person was unable to be located. A probable cause statement was filled out and placed on the board.

Crash: A crash occurred at an intersection. One driver reported being distracted by their radio, causing the crash. That driver was cited for failure to obey a traffic control device - stop sign. Both drivers were given accident exchange forms and explained reporting requirements. One

vehicle had to be towed due to heavy damage.

Crash: A non-injury traffic crash occurred in a parking lot where one vehicle hit another while parking. There was under $2 500 of damage, and both drivers had valid insurance. Assistance was provided with the exchange of information.

AOA: Assistance was provided for another department contacting the owner of a vehicle involved in a minor crash. Officers spoke to the registered owner and their number was provided to the other department.

Citizen Contact: A person called with concerns about their 17-year-old son, believing he was using illegal substances and that his health was deteriorating. The parent wanted to see if the son could be placed on a hold to get sober, as he had been caught trying to steal from their apartment twice that day. The parent stated the son was moving between different residences and had not been assaultive or suicidal recently but needed to get sober. The criteria for a hold were explained, and it was determined they were not met. The parent believed the son was returning to a juvenile facility next month for a previous robbery charge and was concerned his behavior would escalate.

Thursday, July 24

Leonardo Hernandez-Cruz, 31, was arrested on an outstanding warrant.

Independence Police Department

Thursday, July 10

At 12:48 p.m., residents on Helmick Road reported their son had run away. The child had run away once before from the residence and has a history of running away as a toddler. Agencies search Sarah Helmick Park, nearby bridges, cemeteries and vehicles.

Family and neighbors checked nearby barns, ag buildings, and other neighborhood buildings. The youth was not found.

At 10:38 p.m., officers responded to a verbal argument between domestic partners on Deann Drive.

Friday, July 11

At 2:32 p.m., officers responded to a verbal only domestic disturbance on Gun Club Road. No crimes were committed.

Saturday, July 12

A domestic dispute began when the victim was packing her belongings and moving out of the residence she shared with Christian Fernando Martinez in the 500 block of D Street. Martinez returned to the residence from his work and an argument ensued. The victim’s keys were ripped out of her hands, a beverage was thrown and Martinez pinched her while she attempted to leave. He was arrested and charged with assault 4 and lodged at Polk County Jail.

At 7:59 a.m., Independence Police had a vehicle towed because the driver was unlicensed and uninsured.

At 2:31 p.m., a report of a hit and run accident on Gun Club Road. The juvenile driver was eventually found and referred for hit and run and driving while suspended.

At 4:27 p.m., a report of a two vehicle, non-injury crash on Hoffman Road.

At 7 p.m., officers responded to a domestic disturbance on D Street. The male subject, who injured the female subject’s arm, was arrested and charged with assault 4

Sunday, July 13

While on a traffic stop in the 9000 block of Hoffman Road, an officer found that Christopher Ernest Dodds had a warrant out of Lane County for concealing a weapon.

Upon searching Dodds, a small knife was located in his

pocket and he was cited for carrying a concealed weapon and warned for the various traffic infractions.

An officer spotted Florencio Bautista Martinez in a parking lot in the 1600 block of Monmouth St. Bautista Martinez was taken into custody without incident on an outstanding Probation Violation Warrant and transported to Polk County Jail.

At 10:04 am, officers responded to a report of a subject breaking into a car on Deann Drive. It turned out to be the registered owner who locked herself out of the vehicle.

At 10:12 a.m., an officer conducted a welfare check on two individuals on the Independence Bridge. The male subject had three outstanding warrants. He was cited and released on one and arrested and lodged for the other two.

At 12:07 p.m., officers responded to an alarm on 7th Street. Everything was fine - a realtor did not have a code.

At 3:06 p.m., a motorist was stopped on Hoffman Road for expired tags. The driver had an outstanding warrant for a weapons offense. A search revealed he had a knife in his pocket. He was arrested on the warrant and was also charged with carrying a concealed weapon.

Monday, July 14

At 7:35 a.m., officers responded to a report of a vehicle versus electric scooter on Monmouth Street. The electric scooter rider was found at fault.

Tuesday, July 15

At 12:45 a.m., an officer stopped a juvenile on an Ebike on Monmouth Street. The rider was warned violating curfew, lighting violations, and being too young to ride an Ebike.

At 10:38 a.m., a resident found a loose husky near 12th Street. It was taken to the dog kennels.

At 11:59 p.m., officers responded to a report of an elude suspect going westbound on Highway 22. The vehicle was located between Hannah and Stryker roads. Spike strips were deployed, stopping the vehicle. But the driver fled on foot. The suspect was tasered as he tried to enter a residence on Grand Street.

After a prolonged physical struggle with several officers, Adam Wagoner was arrested and taken into custody with charges pending.

Thursday, July 17

At 2:01 a.m., officers assisted Monmouth Police locating an elude suspect who had bailed from his car and was heading southbound over fences. He was found in the 200 block of Knox Street where he gave up running and was taken into custody by Monmouth Police.

Friday, July 18

Scott David Henry was arrested at City Hall on a failure to appear warrant out of Polk County. He was taken to Polk County Jail.

At 1:05 a.m., while parked at Talmadge Middle School, a Monmouth Police Officer noticed one or two individuals with flashlights by the Conex containers near the baseball diamond at Central High School. By the time he walked to the location, no one was there with nothing disturbed. Independence officers helped search for suspects but no one was found.

At 11:29 a.m., officers assisted Polk County Sheriff’s deputies take a male subject into custody for parole violation.

At 1:37 p.m., a transient male was arrested on Main Street for multiple outstanding warrants.

At 7 p.m., a report of a dog labeled as a potentially dangerous dog, bit unprovoked a female bike rider on Polk Street.

Saturday, July 19

At 1:56 p.m., an officer contacted a motorist who was parked hazardously on Hoffman Road. The driver was cited for driving while suspended - violation and for no insurance. The car was towed.

At 5:24 p.m., an officer spoke to a youth on Main Street about following mom’s rules. He apologized to her and agreed to do so.

Sunday, July 20

An observant store clerk noticed a customer’s $100 bill had “a lot of ink on it” so she declined to accept it and covertly had another employee take pictures of the suspect’s vehicle. The suspect drove off after using smaller bills to make his purchase and was discovered in another store parking lot in the 1600 block of Monmouth Street by a Monmouth Police Officer. When confronted, the suspect identified himself as Charles J. Petry and the officer saw a stack of fake $100 bills in the vehicle. Meanwhile Petry’s passenger had gone into a different store and paid with a counterfeit $100 bill. This person was not located. Petry had a serviceable failure to appear warrant out of Jackson County as well. He was transported to the Polk County Jail on charges of forgery 1 and criminal possession of a forged instrument.

At 9:09 p.m., a male subject was arrested on Monmouth Street and charged with forgery 2 and criminal possession of forgery instrument. He had tried to use fake $100 bills at the 7-11. He was found with additional fake $100 in his possession.

Monday, July 21

At 3:33 p.m., Paula Jean Johnson activated her stun gun towards new tenants at an apartment complex in the 300 block of Osprey Lane after a verbal disagreement about moving vehicles being temporarily parked in a fire truck lane. The issue had been addressed by management and Johnson was not happy with the decision. She arced her stun gun as the tenants were exiting the parking lot. She was cited and released for disorderly conduct 2

Tuesday, July 22

Scott Whitfield Jr had a verbal argument with a family member in the 100 block of South 16th Street that he’s been ordered to not have contact with as per his probation agreement. Whitfield had left the residence on foot. He was arrested and charged with probation violation then transported to Polk County Jail.

At 6:55 a.m., officers responded to a report of shots fired on I Street. Upon arrival, a male subject jumped a fence into a wooded area. It seemed like a false report. The case is still under investigation. A juvenile subject was referred later in the day for initiating a false report.

Polk County Sheriff’s Office

Wednesday, July 16

At 2:52 a.m., a report of a disabled vehicle on Highway 22 with the driver outside of the vehicle. A deputy searched the area but did not locate any vehicles or people walking along the highway.

At 7:17 a.m., a motorist on Highway 22 was cited for speeding 73 mph in a 55-mph zone.

At 7:30 a.m., a motorist on Highway 22 near milepost 2 was cited for speeding 84 mph in a 55-mph zone.

At 7:35 a.m., a motorist was stopped for speeding 73 mph in a 55-mph zone. The driver was cited for failing to renew registration and was warned for speeding.

At 2:28 p.m., a male subject was arrested on 53rd Avenue and charged with violating a stalking order. He was lodged at Polk County Jail.

At 7:21 p.m., PCSO received an agency assist request from medics regarding an unidentified female who was found face down in the river near Steel Bridge Road. She was alive, but very disoriented and hypothermic. Medics transported her to WVMC in McMinnville where a deputy met them. She finally shared her name and story, which involved being dropped off in the area on Monday by a stranger whose phone she stole after he gave her a ride and she jumped out of his car. Allegedly her and some friends took some meth and she doesn’t recall much beyond that. The victim did not want to be a victim and did not want his phone back. The female subject had a pending violation and was told to report to her Marion County parole officer ASAP. She was discharged from WVMC shortly after the deputy completed his investigation and left.

Thursday, July 17

At 12:29 a.m., a motorist was stopped on Dallas Cutoff Road and cited for speeding 78 mph in a 55-mph zone and was warned for failing to carry proof of registration and insurance.

At 2:01 a.m., the Monmouth Police Department asked for assistance in locating a vehicle elude on Clay Street. The driver had jumped out and was running over fences. Deputies assisted in setting up a perimeter with Independence and Monmouth police. The driver was located running eastbound to cross into a yard in the 200 block of Knox Street. He gave up running and was taken into custody by Monmouth Police without incident.

At 8:18 a.m., a motorist on Highway 22 was cited for speeding 77 mph in a 55-mph zone, driving Uninsured and for failing to install an ignition interlock device.

At 8:54 a.m., stopped to help a vehicle stopped on the side of Highway 22 with its hood up. The driver said her vehicle had overheated and was on the phone with her parents. She planned on putting water in the vehicle to get it to Grand Ronde to purchase radiator fluid. However, she called the deputy back over before he left after she was unable to get the car to start. The deputy found oil/radiator fluid mixed and a small puddle on the ground and recommended a tow if she hoped to preserve her engine. She recontacted her parents, who arranged for a tow out of Salem.

At 10:56 a.m., a motorist was stopped for traffic violations. After overcoming a language barrier, the driver was cited for speeding, driving uninsured and driving while suspended - violation.

At 2:20 p.m., deputies investigated a two-vehicle, hit-and-run crash. A driver reported a Coca Cola truck pulled out of Chevron and struck his truck as he was eastbound on Highway 22. They obtained video from Chevron, however it did not show the crash. They contacted Coca Cola and obtained driver information and still need to follow up with the driver to obtain his dash cam footage from Coca Cola.

At 2:52 p.m., a deputy contacted two motorcyclists at Chevron on Highway 22 due to employee concerns they may be drinking in the parking lot. The riders were waiting for help with a flat tire. No signs of intoxication or alcoholic beverages.

At 3:47 p.m., a resident on King Road reported after her dog went through a fence to the neighbor’s yard, it was attacked by the neighbor’s dog. A deputy told her that unfortunately her dog was trespassing on the other property and the owner could not be cited for dog as a public nuisance.

At 4:11 p.m., a deputy was called to the intersection of highways 22 and 223 where

a motorcyclist hit a log truck while making a turn. When the deputy arrived on scene and contacted SW Polk Fire, they advised the rider was deceased.

At 8:36 p.m., a deputy investigated a two-vehicle, minor-injury crash on Corvallis Road. A driver, turning left into a driveway, didn’t see the oncoming vehicle. It struck her vehicle, both careening separate directions before stopping. The driver that was struck complained of head, neck, chest and leg pain, and was cited for dangerous left turn. The other driver did not report of any pain.

At 8:51 p.m., a deputy witnessed a heavily intoxicated male subject stumble away from the Arena Bar and go to the Independence Hotel. Staff reported he began screaming obscenities. After speaking with staff, the deputy searched all four floors of the hotel, but was unable to locate the subject.

At 9:14 p.m., several reports of a dog dumped on the side of Mistletoe Road with a bag of treats and two balls to play with. A couple had stopped and told a responding deputy they would look after the dog overnight while posting about it on Facebook.

Friday, July 18

At 12:48 a.m., a resident on Ellendale Avenue reported hearing four gunshots fired off somewhere near her neighborhood. A deputy drove through the area, but didn’t hear anything.

At 1:05 a.m., a deputy reported while parked at Talmadge Middle School, he observed one or two subjects with flashlights by the Conex containers near the baseball diamond at Central High School. By the time he walked over to the area, they were gone. Nothing appeared disturbed. Independence Police also helped check and they were unable to locate anyone as well.

At 3:15 a.m., a motorist on Highway 22 was cited for speeding 80 mph in a 55-mph zone.

At 3:44 a.m., a motorist on Highway 22 was cited for speeding 78 mph in a 55-mph safety corridor zone. At 4:18 a.m., a motorist was cited for speeding 80 mph in a 55-mph zone and warned to get plates replaced as soon as the car’s title transfer went through.

At 5:10 a.m., deputies provided traffic control at the scene of a head on collision on Wallace Road that blocked the entire highway. The drivers were transported by Salem Fire. Oregon State Police handled the investigation. At 7:28 a.m., a deputy investigated a side-swipe accident on Buena Vista Road. Since both drivers claimed the other had side swiped them, the deputy was unable to issue any citations.

At 11:29 a.m., Independence Police assisted the PCSO in taking a subject on 4th Street into custody for violating probation.

At 11:09 a.m., a deputy investigated a report of a Volkswagen parked illegally on Bridgeport Road. The car turned up stolen out of Beaverton. The victim was notified.

At 1:53 p.m., a female subject came into the PCSO to report of a late domestic disturbance with a male subject in Wallace Marine Park. However, she had an outstanding failure to appear warrant out of Linn County for criminal trespass. She was cited and released. A deputy will follow up with Salem police on the domestic disturbance report.

At 2:13 p.m., a resident in the 18600 block of Oakdale Road reported seeing the same suspicious vehicle pull up to his property near his mailbox multiple times within the last couple weeks. He shared

a picture of the vehicle for documentation.

At 4:33 p.m. a motorist with faulty brakes skidded around Orrs Corner Road and into a tree. Neither the driver nor passenger were injured.

At 4:59 p.m., a report of a 19-year-old babysitter that had sex with a 14-year-juvenile she was supposed to be watching over a period of time. She has since left for California to seek alcohol abuse treatment. The report was turned over to detectives to investigate.

At 10:54 p.m., a motorist on Highway 99 was cited for speeding 77 mph in a 55-mph zone.

Saturday, July 19

At 2:03 a.m., a motorist on Highway 22 near milepost 18 was cited for speeding 10 mph over the speed limit in a 55-mph zone.

At 5:25 a.m., a report of a deer stuck in a woven wire fence along Webb Lane. By the time a deputy arrived, the deer had freed itself and left.

At 11:37 a.m., a report that the stop sign located at Orrs Corner Road and Riddle Road was damaged. A deputy observed the pole was still intact, but the sign itself was bent and only secured by one bolt. The sign appeared to have been hit by a large truck or farm equipment.

At 3:50 p.m., a resident of Oak Villa Road reported a neighbor’s dog came onto her property and cornered her chickens. A deputy warned the son of the dog’s owner, who was not present, of being cited for dog as public nuisance. Another resident at the neighbor’s house was also warned for dog as public nuisance for her three dogs.

At 6:35 p.m., a wallet found at the 7 Star gas station in Dallas was turned into the PCSO. The owner

was contacted and came in to retrieve the wallet.

At 7:16 a.m., two brothers were riding ATVs in on Mitchell Street in Falls City when one bumped the other, causing him to overcorrect and collide with a pole. The rider likely suffered a broken leg. He was transported to Salem Hospital.

At 9:27 p.m., a deputy came across a vehicle on Ellendale Avenue that had run out of gas. The driver had gas delivered and had just finished refilling.

Sunday, July 20

At 12:48 a.m., a deputy came across a boat trailer with a blown tire. The owners were waiting for a new tire that was coming from Gresham.

At 6:17 a.m., a resident on 7th Street in Falls City reported a verbal domestic where a female could be heard yelling and cussing along with a male voice. Sheriff units arrived on scene and were unable to locate any subjects that were involved.

At 12:12 p.m., a resident on Corvallis Road reported a suspicious gray 4Runner parked in the area for the last couple of days. She reported that her husband approached the vehicle and the occupant advised he was a private investigator. Before a deputy arrived in the area the 4Runner had left.

At 5:56 p.m., a deputy investigated a report of an emotionally disturbed subject at a residence on Hopkins Avenue in Falls City. The deputy found the subject was actually intoxicated. The homeowner at the location no longer wanted the subject staying there. The deputy told the subject he was no longer welcome at this address and he needed to leave. Additionally, he was told if he came back he would be arrested for trespassing.

At 7:06 p.m., a motorist was cited for speeding 91 mph in a 55-mph zone and for passing in a no-passing zone.

p.m. Aug. 16. Taste your way through Monmouth and Independence on a

to offer.

At 8:50 p.m., deputies investigated a report of a disturbance at a homeless camp near the river off Main Street in Independence. A male was located who was yelling threatening statements, but it turns out he was alone and simply practicing lines for a movie he is making. He was asked to keep it down.

At 9:16 p.m., a resident on Harmony Road reported four to five subjects were on her property shooting without permission. When they realized someone was coming to check they fled back to their car and left. A deputy did not see them go by his location.

At 11:39 p.m., a motorist was cited for speeding 81 mph in a 55-mph zone.

Monday, July 21

At 12:39 a.m., a motorist was stopped on Pacific Highway for speeding. The driver was cited for driving uninsured.

At 12:41 a.m., a deputy responded to a report of a garage on fire on Pioneer Road. The deputy helped the firefighters get the water chain connected, then stood by as an extra set of hands until it was clear to get his vehicle out.

At 1:55 a.m., a deputy attempted to stop a motorcycle for no tail light. It eluded very slowly up 52nd and 53rd streets until it drove into a yard. The deputy checked around the property on foot and then found the motorcycle with both subjects hiding nearby. The driver was identified as Tyler Mayfield and he was arrested and charged with elude then lodged at Polk County Jail.

At 3:08 a.m., deputies responded to a report of an unconscious male on Ecols Street in Monmouth. They helped medics clear the subject and load him into the ambulance.

At 5:08 a.m., a motorist was stopped for no license plates. The driver was cited for driving uninsured.

Come hungry and ready to explore. Tickets are $15 per person or $25 for a pair and are available online at https://bit.ly/3GJOreP.

Stol Wars returns Aug. 16-17

The Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 292 presents WOW: Wings Over Willamette Fly In and Stol Wars Aug. 16-17 at the Independence State Airport, located at 4803 Airport Road. There will be airplanes, food and aviation forums, including talks from the Recreational Aviation

At 6:54 a.m., a motorist on Highway 22 was cited for speeding 86 mph in a 55-mph zone.

At 7:44 a.m., a motorist on Salem Dallas Highway was stopped for speeding 75 mph in a 55-mph zone. The driver was cited for driving while suspended - violation.

At 8:54 a.m., a motorist on Highway 22 near milepost 6 was cited for speeding 78 mph in a 55-mph zone.

At 10:45 a.m., Community Corrections reported possible campers at Mill Creek Park. A deputy contacted a male and female subject who were trying to get up to the BLM area to camp. The deputy explained the area up in the woods was closed due to fire season. He told him about some campgrounds out towards the coast.

At 1:36 p.m., a report of a single vehicle crash on Suver Road involving a semi hauling hay. The driver cut the corner short, avoiding oncoming traffic and his tire slipped into the ditch, causing some of the hay to fall off the trailer into the ditch.

At 5:16 p.m., a resident on Rowell Creek Road reported hearing his dogs barking at something at 3 a.m. He later discovered his shop door had been kicked in. Nothing was missing at this time.

At 7:33 p.m., a report of two German shepherds running loose on Independence Highway. A deputy didn’t locate any loose dogs, but did spot two behind a gate in the 3800 block of Highway 51

At 8:08 p.m., a deputy covered Monmouth Police while they took a male subject into custody on Jackson Street without incident.

At 6:33 p.m., a motorist was stopped on Main Street in Dallas for failure to obey traffic control device and showed multiple indicators of impairment. The driver initially failed a field sobriety test and was arrested for driving under the influence of an intoxicant. However, a breath sample came back 0 0 BAC. A

Foundation, Oregon Pines Ninety-Nines, Oregon Pilots Association, Oregon Aviation Historical Society, WAAAM, IAC Chapter 77 and many more. EAA292 will be showcasing the many youth aviation related programs they run. For more information, go to https:// wow-flyin.com.

Chambers host Good Morning Polk County networking event Aug. 19

The Dallas Area Chamber of Commerce and Monmouth-Independence

drug recognition expert determined not impaired at the time of evaluation. The driver was cited and released for DUII and given a courtesy ride back to his house.

Tuesday, July 22

At 12:47 a.m., Tribal Police requested a transport of two subjects in custody to Polk County Jail.

At 6:43 a.m., a deputy was pacing a speeding vehicle on Highway 22 when another vehicle sped past in the slow lane going much faster. The driver dangerously passed the vehicle being paced, faked swerving into the other driver then pulled immediately in front of the vehicle, almost hitting it. The deputy stopped the second vehicle and cited the driver for speeding 80 mph in a 55-mph zone and for careless driving. After receiving the citation, the driver sped away before the deputy could back up and came close to running over the toe of his boot with the rear tires as she turned away from the stop.

At 6:55 a.m., deputies helped Independence Police on a shots call on Falcon Loop. Upon arrival, a male subject jumped a fence into a wooded area. Deputies ssisted with containment.

At 8:13 a.m., a motorist on Highway 22 near Greenwood Road was cited for speeding 75 mph in a 55-mph zone.

At 9:50 a.m., a license plate was found near Lombard and Lewis streets in Falls City. The plate came back from ann Enterprise rental out of Tualatin. The plate had not been reported stolen. A deputy took the plate and will have it returned to the DMV.

At 10:17 a.m., a work truck with a tool box in back was reported stolen from Bruers Contract Cutting off Kings Valley Highway.

At 11:05 a.m., a motorist became distracted on Corvallis Road, went into the shoulder and was unable to make corrections to stay on the roadway. The driver struck

Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center present Good Morning Polk County, a free special networking event at 8 a.m. Aug. 19 at the Polk County Fairgrounds, 520 S. Pacific Highway. Guest speakers Rep. Anna Scharf and Rep. Paul Evans will be sharing insightful updates on issues impacting our communities. Following their remarks, Chamber reps will dive into a helpful presentation on How to Network in Polk County — offering tools and tips for building strong local connections. RVSP online at https://bit. ly/3IHRHIb.

a mailbox and garbage can in the 7200 Corvallis Road before coming to a stop in a ditch. The driver was cited for careless driving.

At 1:56 p.m., a deputy investigated a hit and run - property accident on Salt Creek Road. By the time a deputy arrived, the driver had already been helped from the crashed vehicle, not appearing intoxicated, and left the scene with another driver in a different vehicle. The deputy was unable to locate the driver from prior listed addresses. The resident whose property received minor damage did not wish to pursue charges.

At 6:37 p.m., a report of several chunks of wood from Highway 22 to Highway 99. A deputy passed through the area and removed five to six 2 by 4s from the westbound lanes.

At 7:30 p.m., a report of a single vehicle hit and run accident on Pleasant Hill Road where a driver crashed into a mailbox. The driver eventually returned to the scene stating he was running from a driver he passed and lost control of his vehicle. He was issued citations for hit and run and careless driving.

At 8:33 p.m., a report of two dirt bikes that went up past the locked gate at the end of Josiah Wills Road, which was closed to motor vehicles currently. A deputy checked the area but was unable to locate the riders.

At 8:39 p.m., a subject turned over to Grand Ronde Fire personnel a bag of suspected methamphetamine, allegedly found by a third party in the casino parking lot. While waiting for a PCSO deputy, the subject left the scene. A deputy confirmed it was several grams of meth with the NarcRanger.

At 9:23 p.m., a vehicle was repossessed on Helmick Road.

At 9:36 p.m., deputies stood by while Dallas Police apprehended a subject for restraining order violation.

citizens of all ages to engage in dialogue about the environmental challenges faced and explore ways of making a difference locally.

MICC hosts Golden Gala Aug. 22

Climate Cafe returns Aug. 21

The MonmouthIndependence Climate Action Group hosts Climate Cafe, from 7-8:30 p.m. Aug. 21 at the Monmouth Senior Community Center, 180 Warren St. S. This is an opportunity for the community members, students and

The MonmouthIndependence Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center presents The Golden Gala at 6 p .m. Aug. 22 at the Historic Gentle House, 855 Monmouth Ave. N, Monmouth. Enjoy dinner, dancing and prizes. The MICC is raffling off 100 exclusive GOLDEN TICKETS at $100 each and the winner will receive $1 000 worth of lottery scratch-offs.Golden Gala Tickets are $40 per pair or $25 per individual and are available online at https:// bit.ly/4ePJfml or at the Chamber office, 355 Pacific Ave N Ste B, Monmouth.