Month: May 2024

Local News

La Grande Lands Epa Rebate to Buy Electric School Buses

La Grande School District has been awarded a rebate of $2,020,000 by the EPA to purchase ten new electric school buses. This move is part of the Clean School Bus Program aimed at replacing older diesel buses. The initiative, spanning nationwide, targets improving air quality and student health.

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Local News

Arrest Comes Following High Speed Chase

A high-speed chase on Interstate 84 ended in Union County, resulting in the arrest of a Hermiston man. 21 year old Elijah Benjamin Meza faces charges including felony fleeing and reckless driving. Oregon State Police apprehended him after a failed traffic stop.

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Local News

New Leadership in Baker School District

Baker School District welcomes new leadership to its Technology Department. Bob Duker and Matt Duman are set to take over from Justin Crego, with Duker as Systems Administrator and Duman as Team Lead starting June 1. Superintendent Betty Palmer expresses gratitude for Crego’s contributions and looks forward to leveraging technology under the new leadership to […]

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Local News

Hearing Scheduled Over Dollar General Plans in Wallowa County

The Wallowa County Board of Commissioners is set to hear appeals regarding the new Dollar General store’s construction. The controversy over its location continues, with residents voicing concerns ahead of the upcoming hearing.

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Oregon News

Forest Service Announces Fee Waiver

The USDA Forest Service will offer a fee waiver for day-use recreation sites across Washington and Oregon on June 8 in celebration of National Get Outdoors Day. This initiative aims to promote outdoor activities and healthy lifestyles. The waiver applies to various sites, excluding camping and special permits.

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Local News Oregon News

Fire Restrictions Begin June 1

Starting June 1, annual campfire restrictions will be enforced on BLM lands in Oregon. The goal is to safeguard public safety and prevent wildfires. Prohibited activities include campfires, charcoal fires, and open flames. Lanterns and camp stoves using bottled propane or liquid fuel are permitted. Smoking is only allowed in vehicles or on water. Violations […]

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Local News

Calling All Blacksmiths

Blacksmiths, young or old, are gearing up for the upcoming blacksmith contest at Flora School Days in Flora. Participants will craft replicas of 18th-century gate hinges. The event, scheduled for June 15th, aims to raise funds for the Flora School restoration project while celebrating pioneer and folk arts. Aspiring contestants are encouraged to start practicing […]

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Local News

La Grande Teachers to See Increase in Pay

La Grande School District teachers are in for a salary boost over the next two years as the school board unanimously approved a new contract. The contract includes raises of 4% in 2024-25 and 3.635% in 2025-26, starting July 1 after the current pact expires.

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Local News

Union Budget Nearing Approval

Union County’s budget for the upcoming fiscal year is nearing final approval, with the budget committee recommending a total budget of $64.267 million for 2024-25. This proposed budget, about 5% higher than the current one, aims to maintain all programs and staffing at their current levels.

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Local News

Arrests Made After La Grande Attacks

Following a series of attacks reported in La Grande, police have arrested Jennifer Johnson and several juveniles after a traffic stop. The suspects allegedly used a slingshot or BB gun from a white pickup truck, injuring one victim. Charges include assault, reckless endangering, and criminal conspiracy. The investigation is ongoing.

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