http://www.centraloregonian.com/ Stories from the Central Oregonian (c)2012, Eagle Newspapers, Inc. All rights reserved The proposal for a virtual charter school is moving along slowly, and Crook County School District has asked for more clarification on several key points before proceeding with the proposal. The Crook County School District sent a letter to the Insight Virtual School of Oregon on Jan. 26, requesting a more complete application for the virtual charter school proposal — which was made in early January. Three weeks after the Crook County School Board received a proposal from Insight School of Oregon for a virtual charter school, the board met with members of the Department of Education and members of the Insight board of directors for a work session. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13809/charter-school-proposal-moving-along-slowly Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:21:37 GMT 13809 In mid-May, Crook County voters get their first chance to decide who will lead their community, state, and nation into the future. While that is the case, many of them may not have any say in the outcome of certain races. Because Oregon has closed primary elections, people who have not registered as a Republican or Democrat will not see the partisan positions on their ballot. On the 2010 ballot, the partisan offices included Crook County Commissioner, Oregon Treasurer, Governor, and District 55 Representative, and U.S. Senator and Representative. Oregon is one of 23 states with a closed primary. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13810/pick-a-party-any-party Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:21:37 GMT 13810 Faye Taylor When it comes to ranching, there are a myriad of challenges, not the least of which are rustling or the outright killing of cattle. For example, between Sept. 8 and 13 of 2011, Dave McMichael on Combs Flat Rd. in Prineville discovered 17 of his and a fellow rancher’s Corrientes cows scattered about their ranches dying or dead. They had been gut shot and left to suffer a horrible death — cowacide. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13811/cattle-crimes Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:21:37 GMT 13811 There was celebration in Salem’s capitol on Thursday, as House Bill 4067 moved to the House Revenue Committee this week. Oregon Representative Mike McLane (R-Powell Butte) announced with exuberance that an agreement was reached Thursday that would lift the potential threat of central assessment to data centers that are protected by rural enterprise zones in Oregon. “We reached an agreement with the Governor to support the Data Center Job Bill,” said McLane. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13807/mclanes-bill-takes-another-step-forward Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:17:36 GMT 13807 After multiple cases this past year, it is now official. On Friday afternoon, the Crook County Health Department announced a meningococcal infection outbreak. The decision — made jointly by the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the Oregon Public Health Division, and the Health Department — came after an investigation into the most recent case revealed a serogroup C infection. This marked the third such case in less than three months, meeting the criteria to declare an outbreak. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13808/meningitis-outbreak-declared Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:17:36 GMT 13808 The NJROTC unit at Crook County High School has been selected for the Premier Unit award for area 13, standing out among 50 units, many of which have programs twice their size. The award came as a surprise to CCHS NJROTC instructors Donny Jackson and Russ Robison. “It’s for the 2011-2012 school year, and we are the number one unit in the northwest United States,” exclaimed Robison. “That is just over 50 units in 13 Northwestern states (including) Japan and Guam. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13806/local-cadets-attain-premier-status-award Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:15:20 GMT 13806 Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) liability has become a major concern for Oregon. As more public employees reach retirement age, the potential liability to the state goes up. Unfortunately, not all of the information concerning the financial stability of PERS has been made public. In August of 2010, both The Oregonian and the Statesman Journal submitted requests to PERS under Oregon’s Public Records Law, requesting an electronic copy of the retirement data of all those earning more than $100,000 annually in their retirement. PERS refused the request, and in December of 2010, filed an action against both The Oregonian and Statesman Journal in Marion County, claiming that the requested records were exempt from disclosure under the Public Records Law. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13805/pers-records-should-remain-open-to-the-public Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:13:24 GMT 13805 On Jan. 30, 2012, at 10:35 p.m., Merle Lynn Kellogg went home to be with his Lord and Savior. He passed peacefully at his home with his wife and family at his side. He mentioned several times in the last few months that God had truly blessed his life and given him everything he desired. Merle was born June 1, 1939, in Cherrytree Penn., to Norman and Lucy Kellogg. He attended the one room schoolhouse in Cherrytree. He served in the Army as a Paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division. He was honorably discharged with medals of Marksman and Good Conduct. In December 1960, he married his longtime sweetheart, Kay Harmon, of Titusville. They had three children, Melony, Norman, and Susie. In 1976, they moved to Oregon, where Merle started his own construction business with Kay by his side. His passion and talent was custom building log homes. After his retirement in 2003, they moved to Spring Creek, Nev., until the time of his passing. Merle will always be remembered for his love of life, people, and God. He was honest and dedicated to every endeavor in life. He loved fishing, camping, hunting, woodworking, and hanging out in his shop. His other passion in life was spending precious moments with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will be greatly missed by those he left here on earth. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13799/merle-kellogg Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:58:03 GMT 13799 Edward “Eddie” Joseph Lane, a Prineville resident, passed away on Friday, Feb. 3, 2012, at his home. He was 88 years of age. A recitation of the Holy Rosary will be held Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2012, at 7 p.m., at Prineville Funeral Home. A Mass Of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2012, at 11 a.m., at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, in Prineville. Father Robert Greiner will officiate. A reception will follow for all family and friends at the church Parish Hall. Committal service will follow at Juniper Haven Cemetery. Eddie was born April 21, 1923, in Bend, the son of William and Elizabeth (Cashman) Lane. Eddie attended and graduated from Bend High School in 1941, and had one year of college at Portland State University. Eddie entered the U.S. Army in April 1943, where he served in the South Pacific; he was honorably discharged in April 1945. He married Rebecca “Marie” Forrester on May 11, 1947, in Prineville. Marie died last year on Feb. 16, 2011. Eddie moved from Bend to Prineville in 1951, where he managed Prineville Men’s Wear, then purchased the store in 1971. Eddie and Marie loved to dance and enjoyed socializing. He loved the outdoors, hunting, and camping. Eddie loved to attend rodeos, saddle bronc riding, and enjoyed watching his grandson’s playing football. He was a member of the Prineville Elks Lodge #1814, where he was past exalted ruler and where he and Marie went to dinner every Friday. Eddie was a past member of the Prineville Lions Club and Kiwanis Club. He was a past Grand Marshall of the Paulina Rodeo and the Crooked River Round Up, where he was also a member of the board. Eddie was, a great, fun-loving man. He will be missed by many friends and family. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13800/edward-lane Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:58:03 GMT 13800 Tannette Jean Poppe Stevenson of Prineville was born July 5, 1970, in Bend, to John and Carol (Ludecker). Stevenson passed away Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, after a brief illness, surrounded by family and friends. Tannette graduated from high school in Idaho, where she met and married Darron Stevenson. They had two children, Levi and Veronica. They later divorced. Later she met Bobby Hill, her “life partner.” They had a son, Colton. Tannette leaves behind her mother, Carol Poppe (Sterling), and father, John Poppe Jr.; daughter, Veronica; son, Colton; sister, Shawna Poppe; Bobby Hill; and many family and special friends — including her seven “four legged” friends who will miss her greatly. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13801/tannette-stevenson Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:58:03 GMT 13801 Byron Wayne Meadows, a San Diego resident formerly from Prineville, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Jan. 12, 2012. He was 75 years of age. A Mass Christian Burial will be held Friday, Feb. 10, 2012, at 11 a.m., at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, in Prineville. Father Robert Greiner will officiate. A graveside service will follow at Juniper Haven Cemetery. A reception will follow for all family and friends at the church parish hall. Bryon always had the most delightful smile. He was always an extremely positive person. Byron lived in Seneca, Ore., for three years, before moving to Prineville. He lived in Prineville until drafted into the Army. He graduated from University of Oregon in 1960. He studied one year abroad in Vienna, Austria, majoring in music, German, and French. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13802/byron-meadows Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:58:03 GMT 13802 It has been said that Prineville has the most beautiful women in Central Oregon, and Bonnie’s Hair with Heart is doing its part to keep it that way. Owner, Bonnie Everest, opened the new salon on Madras Highway in June of 2011. She left Portland six and a half years ago, looking for a better quality of life for her family. Everest is not flying solo in the salon. Three unique women bring cutting-edge beauty to Prineville. Everest has 30 years behind her as a hair stylist. Nail technician, Judy Rae Solem, has 24 years experience, and René Lawrence, their newest addition, has spent eight years as a hair stylist and color technician. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13803/committed-to-beauty Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:58:03 GMT 13803 There’s no better way to say “Be Mine” than with a collection of Valentine’s Day cupcakes, a great surprise for anyone you’re sweet on this February 14. Cupid’s arrow hits the mark with moist and delicious cupcakes. The vibrant red goodies are fun for kids and adults. Dress up cupcakes using a pink, red and white palette. Other decorating options include wrapping cupcakes in foil cups for an elegant effect, or finishing with colored sugars and sprinkles. You can even write special messages on them. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13804/cupcakes-with-love Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:58:03 GMT 13804 The Crook County Cowgirls are district champions. The Cowgirls overcame a slow start to defeat the Roosevelt Roughriders 59-40 on Friday night to guarantee themselves a play-in game. “We didn’t have the energy we needed at the start of the game,” said head coach Dave Johnson. “We didn’t have a lot of the stuff that we usually bring, but we got things going in the second quarter.” http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13796/cowgirls-take-district-title Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:10:47 GMT 13796 The Roosevelt Roughriders took care of business Friday night, knocking off the Crook County Cowboys 62-39. The victory earned the Roughriders the Special District I championship, and a guaranteed play-in game at the end of the regular season. The Cowboys, who lost starting power forward Tevin Cooper to a medical condition earlier in the week, struggled to get things going early in the game. Without Cooper’s inside presence, the Roughriders were able to control the boards and force Crook County into difficult outside scoring opportunities. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13797/roughriders-whip-cowboys Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:10:47 GMT 13797 While out in the woods the past 50 years, I’ve learned a few things about hunting and other less important things. I’ll see if I can remember what they are: #1-Hunters enjoy sitting around the campfire telling stories of days past when they sat around camp telling stories. #2-Deer and elk are evolving to read signs, and stay behind those that read “No Hunting” and “No Trespassing.” http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13798/25-things-ive-learned-in-50-years-of-hunting Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:10:47 GMT 13798 The score was tied 34-34 with 3.4 seconds remaining on the clock, when Crook County forward Makayla Lindburg stepped to the free throw line. With the game on the line, Lindburg made the second of two foul shots, giving the Cowgirls a 35-34 lead over the Mountain View Cougars. When the Cougars’ desperation three-point heave at the buzzer came up just short, the Cowgirls escaped with the Intermountain Hybrid basketball victory. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13793/lindburg-free-throw-gives-cowgirls-one-point-victory Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:10:47 GMT 13793 It was the battle for Central Oregon wrestling bragging rights. For the seventh-consecutive match, the outcome was the same. Thursday night, the Redmond Panthers rolled to a big early lead, then held on to defeat the Crook County Cowboys 37-27 in the final Intermountain Hybrid match of the year for the Cowboys. “We’ve been a little beat up, and they are too,” said Redmond head coach Nathan Stanley. “They’ve lost a couple of guys out of their lineup, and we did too, so we were in a similar situation in our season.” http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13794/panthers-win-battle-for-central-oregon-wrestling-supremacy Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:10:47 GMT 13794 Playing basketball on back-to-back nights is always difficult. Playing back-to-back road games is even more difficult. That’s the situation that the Crook County Cowboys found themselves in Saturday afternoon. Crook County returned early Saturday from a road game at Roosevelt High School, only to have to go on the road again for a 3 p.m. contest Saturday against the No. 1-ranked Class 5A Mountain View Cougars. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13795/cougars-overpower-short-handed-cowboys-60-32 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:10:47 GMT 13795 Oregon Representative Mike McLane (R-Powell Butte) exuberantly announced on Thursday that an agreement was reached that would lift the potential threat of central assessment to data centers that are protected by rural enterprise zones in Oregon. "We reached an agreement with the Governor to support the Data Center Job Bill," exclaimed McClane. He said that the Governor agreed to move ahead with an amended version of the bill, which included an exclusion of the perpetuity clause on HB 4067. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13792/legislators-and-governor-reach-agreement-on-central-assessment Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:57:25 GMT 13792 Crook County is experiencing an outbreak of meningococcal infection based on three cases during the last three months. County and state public health officials recommend people ages 9 months through 25 years who live, work, or attend school or day care in greater Prineville get a meningococcal vaccination.The meningococcal vaccination is usually recommended for children ages 11-12, with a booster at age 16, but at this time public health officials are expanding the recommended age group. To receive the meningococcal vaccination, people with healthcare coverage should contact their local provider or pharmacist. Most private health insurance plans will cover the cost of vaccination. People without insurance should dial 2-1-1 for more information. Uninsured, Medicaid enrolled, and American Indian/Alaska Native children ages 9 months through 18 years are eligible for federally-funded vaccine through the Vaccines for Children program during the outbreak. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13791/meningitis-outbreak-declared-for-crook-county Fri, 03 Feb 2012 12:06:15 GMT 13791 Kate Patricia Prosch-Jensen, a Prineville resident passed away peacefully with her family at home on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012. She was 92 years of age. A recitation of the Holy Rosary, will be held Friday, Feb. 3, 2012 at 7 p.m. at Prineville Funeral Home . A Mass Christian burial service will be held Saturday, Feb. 4, 2012 at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Prineville. Father Robert Greiner will officiate. A reception will follow for all family and friends at the church Parish Hall. Private burial will be at Ft. Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Kate was born in Keewatin, Minn. on June 12, 1919 to John and Ann Krpan. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13786/kate-prosch-jensen Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:11:22 GMT 13786 Donald Edward Lewis, 55 of Prineville passed away Jan. 20, 2012 while on a working vacation in Sun Valley, Idaho. In accordance with his wishes no service will be held. Don was born March 19, 1956 in Chico, Calif. to Donald and Audrey (Williams) Lewis. At an early age his family moved to Canby, Calif. where Don grew up on the family ranch. He spent his early years attending a one room school, learned to ice skate right out his back door, hunted, fished and searched for arrowheads with his mother and grandmother. Don was active in 4-H and FFA, showing livestock, judging and holding numerous degrees and offices. Prior to high school he spent his summers working in the hay fields, but when old enough went to work in the local veterinary clinic in Alturas, Calif. this is where he developed his passion for veterinary medicine. Don graduated from Modoc High School in Alturis, Calif., class of 1974. He then attended the University of California from 1974 to 1983 where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in agriculture and his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine. Once out of veterinary school he worked in Susanville and Alturis, Calif., then Burns and Lakeview, Ore. before starting his own practice in Prineville in July of 1994. Don married Holly Imbach in Reno, Nev., on Aug. 10, 1994. He worked as a large animal veterinarian throughout Crook, Deschutes and Harney counties with his wife Holly as his assistant for the remainder of his life. Don was a member of the American, Oregon and Idaho Veterinary Medical Associations. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13787/donald-lewis Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:11:22 GMT 13787 Florence Lois Teuscher, passed away peacefully on Jan. 31, 2012, at Avalon Care Center in Pasco, Wash. She was born in Laura, Okla., on Aug. 6, 1927 to parents Virgil and Eula Ray. Lois spent most of her early life in Oklahoma, and spent her high school years in Hood River, Ore., where she finished her education. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13788/florence-teuscher Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:11:22 GMT 13788 John Edward Harmon, age 54, a resident of Cornelius, Oregon, died Sunday evening, Jan. 29, 2012 at his home. John was born May 7, 1957 in Portland, Ore. He was raised in the Portland community and graduated from Marshall High School in 1975. Following his graduation he spent time playing the drums in the band Tahanako. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1984. He was stationed at Fort Benning, Ga and was given an honorable medical discharge in November of 1984 due to an injury he received while on duty. He moved to Prineville after his discharge where he met his wife, Amy (Boe) Harmon. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13789/john-harmon Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:11:22 GMT 13789 On Jan. 30, 2012 at 10:35 p.m., Merle Lynn Kellogg passed peacefully at his home with his wife and family at his side. Services will be held Saturday Feb. 4 at 1:00 p.m. at Greater Life Church in Elko, Nev. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13790/merle-lynn-kellogg Thu, 02 Feb 2012 14:11:22 GMT 13790 Since the emergence of two new invasive meningococcal disease cases in Prineville, healthcare providers and pharmacies have faced a rush of residents wanting the vaccine. While people can get it at several places in town, each venue comes with a different set of restrictions, supply, and cost, potentially leaving residents unsure where to turn. The Crook County Health Department, for example, has had to turn away many residents who do not fit their state-mandated criteria. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13781/immunization-availability-costs-cause-confusion Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:39:38 GMT 13781 As far as Ken Fahlgren is concerned, the work of a Crook County Commissioner is never done. But after four years on the job, he is running for another term in hopes of maybe completing some of it. “We’ve worked to a point where many things are in the fire,” Fahlgren said, “and I do not want to see it end with what I started.” http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13782/fahlgren-makes-decision-to-run-again Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:39:38 GMT 13782 Since the federal healthcare bill passed, Oregon leaders have stated their intentions to ready the state for the upcoming transitions that would follow. Like the state, healthcare leaders in Crook, Deschutes, and Jefferson counties desire to stay ahead of the curve and upgrade healthcare services region-wide. Central Oregon healthcare reform efforts intend to attain what they call the Triple Aim, which promotes “better health, better care, and lower costs. So far, their work has already met two of those goals, saving region hospitals more than $500,000, which in turn could eventually result in lower hospital costs for the patients. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13783/central-oregon-counties-team-up-to-improve-healthcare Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:39:38 GMT 13783 Should information on retirees from the Public Employee Retirement System be made accessible to public disclosure? This hot-button issue has recently reached a crescendo in the media, with a ruling in a case between PERS and The Oregonian and The Statesman Journal in favor of public disclosure by the Attorney General. As a result, an opposing bill is being introduced in the current Legislature. Oregon Representative Mike McLane is in favor of PERS information being made public. He noted however, that the Oregon House Committee on Business and Law is introducing a bill during this Legislative session that would prohibit the state from releasing the names of Public Employees Retirement System retirees. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13784/should-pers-have-full-public-disclosure Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:39:38 GMT 13784 As the wolf reintroduction spreads across Oregon, Crook County officials are taking a proactive stance to the issue of co-existence with the species. At the last Crook County Court meeting, the formation of a wolf depredation committee was passed, and County officials and livestock producers have begun to roll up their sleeves to prepare for the imminent presence of wolves in Crook County. The Livestock Compensation and Wolf Co-Existence Act (HB 3560) signed off by Governor Kitzhaber in August 2011 was a springboard for the mandate to form a livestock compensation board of directors for each Oregon County. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13785/wolf-cries-in-crook-county Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:39:38 GMT 13785 Should the occasion ever arise, young children have the potential to be the lifeline between an emergency and a 911 telecommunications officer. The Prineville 911 Dispatch Center started a tradition in 2010 that would provide valuable training to these young, impressionable minds, giving them the necessary skills in making that critical 911 call. The dispatch center believes that it is important to educate children at an early age of proper emergency and 911 procedures. Local telecommunications officer Nicole Breeden relayed the story of a 911 call made by a three-year-old boy. The call saved his father’s life when he became the victim of an accident at their home. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13780/little-people-learn-big-lessons Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:35:53 GMT 13780 The Summit Storm broke a seven-game losing streak with a 57-52 victory over the Crook County Cowgirls Tuesday night. “Sometimes you just go cold at the wrong time,” said Crook County head coach Dave Johnson following the game. “We just have to keep working on that.” Playing in front of their home crowd on senior night, the Cowgirls struggled to make shots early in the game as they fell behind 6-1 in the game’s opening minutes. Summit still led by five, 12-7, at the end of the quarter. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13776/cowgirls-fall-to-storm Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:21:44 GMT 13776 The Cowboys are playing teams closer, but the end result is still the same. Tuesday night, Crook County stayed close for much of the game, before falling 75-57 to the Summit Storm. “We had stretches where we looked pretty good,” Crook County head coach Jeff Lowenbach said. “But you have to give credit to Summit. They played well and made some key shots and got some defensive stops every time we were making a run.” http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13777/storm-tops-cowboys Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:21:44 GMT 13777 It was a difficult weekend for Mitchell High School basketball. Playing on the road, both the Logger boys and girls teams dropped a pair of games over the weekend. Mitchell girls http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13778/loggers-fall-in-weekend-games Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:21:44 GMT 13778 After picking the Harbaugh brothers to reach the Super Bowl, I would probably be smart to keep my mouth shut about the game itself. However, those of you who know me understand that keeping my mouth shut is not something that I’m any good at. The two brothers, who coach at San Francisco and Baltimore came close to winning, but both teams came up short as the New York Giants and New England Patriots earned last-second wins. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13779/ive-got-the-giants-so-the-smart-money-is-on-the-patriots Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:21:44 GMT 13779 Average retail gasoline prices in Oregon have risen 1.7 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $3.47/g yesterday. This compares with the national average that has increased 4.5 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.39/g, according to gasoline price website OregonGasPrices.com. Including the change in gas prices in Oregon during the past week, prices yesterday were 27.6 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 10.5 cents per gallon higher than a month ago. The national average has increased 13.5 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 30.4 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago. "Late last week we saw wholesale gasoline prices rise dramatically on some refinery issues, which leads me to believe that retail gasoline prices will rise in response," said GasBuddy.com Senior Petroleum Analyst Patrick DeHaan. "We continue to also watch how Iran responds to EU sanctions- there are some concerns that they may cut oil to the European region before the sanctions are to take effect to cause these countries hardship when they can't find new sources of oil quickly enough. That in itself could draw crude oil prices higher quickly at a moments notice," DeHaan said. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13775/oregon-gas-prices-continue-slow-climb Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:26:04 GMT 13775 Dick Chambers, 88, passed away at Pioneer Memorial Hospital on Jan. 26, 2012, surrounded by his family after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. A graveside service will be held Friday, Feb. 3, 2012 at 2 p.m. at Juniper Haven Cemetery in Prineville. Dick was born Aug. 31, 1923 to Walter H. and Cora Belle (Dunn) Chambers, in Boville, Idaho. As a young boy Dick grew up in the Silvercreek Valley (Sun Tex) near Burns, Ore. – a place he dearly loved and fondly referred to as home. He also grew up near Chiloquin, Ore. and spent summers on his grandfather’s farm near Chehalis, Wash. Dick entered the Army in November of 1942. He was in the 11th Airborne Division and volunteered as a paratrooper. He took great pride in serving his country and always referred to the time he spent in the service as a privilege not as a duty. It was there he would meet a beautiful, young, southern lady by the name of Frances Hendrix. They would become man and wife on Oct. 30, 1943 in Charlotte, N.C. They would live their lives together for 53 years until her passing in 1996. After the service, Dick began a career in the Timber Industry that would last several decades. He drove log truck for Ochoco Logging, Russell Smith and C and K Logging to name a few. He then worked a few short years as a car salesman for Rice Motors in Prineville, where he earned top salesman of the year. He then went to work for the Crook County Road Department until his retirement, where he was fondly known as Gramps. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13773/dick-chambers Mon, 30 Jan 2012 15:32:10 GMT 13773 ason White is living his dream. A and J Radiator Repair opened for business in November of 2011, and he is the sole proprietor. White has worked around vehicles his entire life, and says he can do all phases of engine heating and cooling repair, including any light repairs associated with that system. He is competent in all areas of heater cores, water pumps, thermostats and other systems. He even owns a massive water tank, which he uses for his repair work. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13774/living-out-his-dream Mon, 30 Jan 2012 15:32:10 GMT 13774 There’s something magical about the Metolius River. My cabin fever finally got the better of me when the sun broke through after a dreary day of rain and wind so I went in search of some of this magic. As I drove west, I took it as a good omen when the blanket of clouds lifted to reveal the snow-clad Three Sisters. The harsh beauty of their blustery summits is better appreciated from a distance this time of year. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13772/the-magical-metolius Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:21:54 GMT 13772 Tomorrow morning, the Oregon Legislature will convene for their 5-week short session—and according to Senator Doug Whitsett (D-28), the session is going to be all about filling budget holes. “There were significant assumptions at the end of the 2011 sessions that did not pan out,” commented Whitsett about the work in the upcoming session. He said that the state economist anticipated that the Oregon revenue would go up by approximately $130 million. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13770/oregon-legislature-short-session-begins-tomorrow Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:08:20 GMT 13770 Oregon State Representative Mike McLane (R-55) entered the Legislature in 2010 as a freshman, and will soon join the whirlwind of the upcoming legislative session. According to McLane, the reason for this shorter session has to do with a constitutional amendment of the people which was passed in 2010, establishing annual sessions. The odd year is the longer session, and the even year session is shorter—with the idea that it allows the Legislature to make budget adjustments and deal with policy issues in an expedited manner as the need should arise. McLane has served on the Ways and Means Committee, the Emergency Board, and the County Funding Task Force. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13771/oregon-legislature-short-session-begins-tomorrow Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:08:20 GMT 13771 When news first broke that the Oregon Department of Revenue intended to centrally assess data centers for taxation, the legislature didn’t wait long to act. Within a month, Oregon Representative Mike McLane and fellow lawmakers began crafting a bill to protect data centers from the state tax. Now, with the legislature convening this week, Governor John Kitzhaber has announced an administrative fix to the same issue. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13768/governor-announces-central-assessment-solution Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:00:53 GMT 13768 When Contact Industries in Prineville began building bag houses to increase dust-removal efficiency, they did so to cut energy consumption and cost. As it turns out, their efforts have earned them an award as well. Earlier this month, at the Northwest Industrial Energy Efficiency Summit, the local company won the Governor’s Award, the highest honor given for energy performance improvement. The award recognizes companies achieving the greatest reduction in energy intensity over a 12-month period. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13769/awarded-for-going-green Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:00:53 GMT 13769 The fifth case of invasive Meningococcal Disease has been diagnosed in an infant in Crook County, and a sixth case is pending investigation by the Crook County Health Department. The infant is less than six months of age, and is being treated at an area hospital and was listed on Monday as being in "fair" condition. The other possible case is a Prineville resident, and they are currently in fair condition in a Central Oregon hospital. The last case is being investigated, and has not been officially diagnosed. Testing is being done to determine the strain of the bacteria causing the illnesses, and is pending, with results expected by the middle of this week. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13766/fifth-meningococcal-case-hits-crook-county Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:00:53 GMT 13766 There is a kind of magic that happens when high school students mentor their younger counterparts in creative works such as poetry and writing. On a chilly Friday morning, more than 80 eager Ochoco Elementary students took a field trip to Crook County High School to share an adventure of words with their mentors. The younger students shared their poetry, and were given advice and help in composing and writing their poems. Freshman Honors English instructor Rich Daniels said that between his class and Sophomore Honors English instructor Jim Churchill-Dicks, they had more than 60 participants from the high school. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13764/poetry-partners Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:55:45 GMT 13764 On Thursday, the state of Oregon announced that data centers such as Prineville’s Facebook will not be centrally assessed. The new ruling makes a distinction between companies that provide “services of connectivity” such as Crestview Cable or BendBroadband, and companies that “require third party connectivity.” In other words, any company which pays an internet provider for access to the internet would not be centrally assessed. This makes complete sense as providing electricity, or internet connectivity is the very definition of a utility, which is the industry that central assessment was designed for in the first place. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13762/central-assessment-issue-still-needs-legislative-fix Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:53:49 GMT 13762 “We competed well, and it was a great learning experience,” said Crook County head wrestling coach Jake Huffman following the Reser’s Tournament of Champions. It’s a real meat grinder and narrowed down for us what we need to focus on for the remainder of the year.” The Cowboys came away from the tournament with a 10th place finish — their lowest finish of the season. However, Crook County once again demonstrated how much depth they really have as they took first place in the JV portion of the tournament. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13763/cowboys-finish-10th-at-toc Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:53:12 GMT 13763 It was a whirlwind trip. Five members of the Crook County High School cheerleading squad and cheer coach Stacy Koch flew to San Diego for a week during Christmas break to perform at the Holiday Bowl “It was an amazing opportunity,” said DeziRae Ott. “It was a lot of fun.” http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13765/cowgirl-cheerleaders-perform-at-holiday-bowl-in-san-diego Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:53:12 GMT 13765 With races at Frog Lake and Chemult cancelled due to a shortage of snow, Central Oregon sled dog racers are having to go farther afield to get races. As a result, a pair of Central Oregon mushers recently drove more than 400 miles to get to a race that was held in Conconully, Wash., Jan. 21-22. “So far, all of our races have been cancelled,” said Prineville musher Karen Yeargain. “We heard that they had snow in Washington, so we went.” http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13767/mushers-go-to-great-distances-to-find-snow Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:53:12 GMT 13767 The Secretary of State Corporate Division has had numerous reports of a new solicitation from a company called Corporate Regulatory Committee that many Oregon businesses report to be "confusing," "deceptive," or "a scam." This solicitation cites Oregon Law, warns of potential administrative dissolution if action is not taken by a specified date, and offers to file the renewal with the Secretary of State Corporation Division (for a fee of $238) as the business' agent. In one example, the solicitation requested fees and a response from the business nearly a full year before the annual report was required to be filed with the Division. This solicitation uses carefully worded language to attempt to avoid violating any known state or federal laws. In a typical example, for $238 the Corporate Regulatory Committee will pay the required $100 fee to the Secretary of State Corporation Division to complete the annual report filing, and keep the balance for providing the service. If you paid this company to file your annual report with the Secretary of State Corporation Division, you should immediately contact the Oregon Department of Justice, Financial Fraud and Consumer Protection Section. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13761/secretary-of-state-warns-of-potential-scam Fri, 27 Jan 2012 15:26:44 GMT 13761 Another case of invasive Meningococcal Disease, the fifth case in the past 10 months, has hit Crook County, this time in an infant less than six months of age, according to Karen Yeargain, Crook County Health Department communicable disease coordinator. The infant is being treated at an area hospital and is listed in "fair" condition. Serogrouping to determine the strain of the bacteria causing the illness is pending with results expected by the middle of next week. The Crook County Health Department has worked to identify persons in the family and medical settings who were close contacts during the infectious period, from Jan. 15 through 24 . Those people have been notified by the Health Department and preventative antibiotics provided to protect their health. Those identified as close contacts are not a risk to other people. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13760/another-meningococcal-case-diagnosed-in-crook-county Thu, 26 Jan 2012 19:45:50 GMT 13760 Rica Best, a Prineville resident passed away on Monday, Jan. 23, 2012.She was 85 years old. At her request. no local services will be held. Private burial will be in New Mexico. Rica was born in Ordway, Colo. on April 19, 1926 to Ramon and Delores (Lola) Chavez. She was raised in Albuquerque, N.M. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13755/rica-best Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:37:05 GMT 13755 Gertrude B. Nye, 100, of Prineville passed away on Saturday, Jan. 21, 2012. Graveside services were held on Thursday, Jan. 26, at 2 p.m. at Juniper Haven Cemetery. Charley Hughbanks officiated. A reception followed at the First Baptist Church, S.E. Fourth and Fairview in Prineville. Gertrude was born on June 17, 1911 in Ada, Idaho, to Otto and Pearl Jenny (Dove) Slater. She was raised in Sweet Home, Ore., then the family moved to Canada for a while, then back to Sweet Home. Her great- grandfather operated the toll road over Santiam Pass for many years . http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13756/gertrude-b-nye Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:37:05 GMT 13756 Bessie Marie Houston, a Madras resident and formerly of Prineville, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012 at her daughter’s home. She was 97 years old. Graveside services were held on Wednesday, Jan. 25, at 2 p.m. at Juniper Haven Cemetery. Jeff Freshour of Cornerstone Baptist Church in Madras officiated. A reception followed at the Prineville Eagles Lodge. Bessie was born in Prineville on Feb. 3, 1914 to Roy E. and Elva (Zimmerlee) Stuart. They were a pioneer family of Crook County, coming in the 1880s from the Carolina’s. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13757/bessie-houston Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:37:05 GMT 13757 Melvin LeRoy Hamlin, 77, of Albany, Ore. passed away Friday, Jan. 20, 2012 at his home. Melvin was born in Toledo, Ore. to Melvin Lincoln and Bessie (Rose) Hamlin on May 1, 1934. The family ended up in Prineville where he completed high school. After graduation, Melvin went in to construction and then joined the Navy, where he traveled to the Aleutian Islands, The Philippines, and Hawaii. Near the end of his Navy stint, he met and married Jean Eliasen of Santa Barbara. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13758/melvin-leroy-hamlin Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:37:05 GMT 13758 Jyrle “Jere” Douglas Breese, born Sept. 25, 1969 in Prineville to Doug and Jean Breese, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2012 at his home with his family by his side. Jere was 42. Jere attended Crook County schools and graduated from CCHS in 1987. He received an Agri-business Degree from Oregon State University in 1991. He was a member of the Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity at OSU. Jere’s dream and goal was to return to the family ranch, Pilot Butte Hereford Ranch. After working for the ASCS for a year, he returned to the ranch he loved to raise cattle and farm. Jere married Kristi Schaedler Bowers Nov. 1, 2003 in Prineville. They made their home on the family ranch. Jere always loved the soil and growing things. He and Kristi started Hidden Falls Garden in 2005. He was so proud of their beautiful flowering baskets and took great pride in the large flowering tubs on the courthouse steps and at the County Fair. Jere’s also loved his tomato plants and sharing his knowledge about them. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13759/jyrle-jere-breese Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:37:05 GMT 13759 It’s not every day that a reporter has the opportunity to participate in an interactive simulation of deadly force training. I came into the training feeling apprehensive about participating in the session – after all, most of the other members present were law enforcement staff from several different agencies. Some of the technology was familiar however, since it operated much the same as an interactive white board. After observing Prineville Police Captain Michael Boyd and his spot-on accuracy, my apprehension moved up a few notches. Initially, the Bulletin reporter took a turn at the training simulator. Like myself, she felt that this kind of situation was not comfortable or familiar to the everyday person. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13754/a-reporters-perspective-on-critical-response Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:19:18 GMT 13754 When a law enforcement officer is in a situation where they need to escalate the levels of force, the outcome is dependent upon their ability to react with split-second accuracy and judgment. A scenario plays out more quickly than most people would think, and the demand to react appropriately can mean the difference between life and death. “People who go around in their daily lives aren’t faced with the kind of danger that police officers are exposed to every single minute they are on the job—and we can’t take that for granted,” emphasized District Attorney Daina Vitolins. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13753/training-for-the-real-threat Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:16:48 GMT 13753 Mike McCabe recently began his 20th year serving on the Crook County Court, and his fourth as the county judge. As his term current approaches its conclusion, he still sees a litany of unresolved county issues, and has filed for another term to deal with them. “There’s a whole lot of things going on,” McCabe said. “We haven’t landed Maverick (a prospective data center). . . We’re going through a difficult, difficult time because the Workforce Investment Act has not been reauthorized.” http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13751/mccabe-seeking-second-term Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:13:49 GMT 13751 More than 100 people filled the Clover Building of the Crook County Fairgrounds Wednesday evening to discuss and learn more about the local economy. The Crook County Economic Forum, spearheaded by Economic Development for Central Oregon (EDCO) and the Central Oregon Patriots, brought local and state leaders together to discuss the status of the Crook County economy and its future. The panel included Crook County Economic Development Manager Jason Carr, Oregon Representative Mike McLane, Prineville City Manager Steve Forrester, Crook County Open Campus Coordinator Jeff Papke, and Steve Holliday, who chairs Economic Development of Central Oregon’s local advisory board. The forum included a comprehensive report on the current activities of EDCO, a more in-depth look at the benefits and local impact of Facebook, as well as a look at the future of employment and education. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13752/large-turnout-at-economic-forum Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:13:49 GMT 13752 A 34-year-old man was taken into custody on Wednesday evening in Powell Butte on 18 counts of Animal Neglect II, following an on-going investigation by the Crook County Sheriff’s office. The charges arose out of the alleged neglect of more than 50 horses that were located on 12340 S.W. Highway 126 in Powell Butte. At the time of the warrant execution, there were three people and a child on the property. It was determined that Timothy Luke Coffia was the person hired to care for the livestock. He was taken into custody and lodged in the Crook County Jail. The other people on the property were not connected to the care of the horses. Undersheriff John Gautney of the Crook County Sheriff’s office said they have received numerous complaints over the past several months in regards to the well-being of the herd of 50-60 horses. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13750/warrant-results-in-arrest-seizure-of-eight-horses Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:08:04 GMT 13750 Gayle Kieling special to the Central Oregonian Cindy Jones, long time director of the Prineville and Madras branches of the Pregnancy Resource Centers of Central Oregon (PRCCO), will be retiring as of this January. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13749/handing-over-the-reins Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:01:22 GMT 13749 “Dad thought he had a nice bull,” say Kayla. “Until he figured out that his set of elk antlers could fit inside mine.” Now 14, Kayla Pieren is an old pro at shooting the bow. The last two years she was one of five youths to make the Oregon junior team and go the international Youth Hunter Education Challenge (YHEC), which is recognized as the most comprehensive youth hunting program anywhere in North America. The NRA program provides young hunters with various outdoor skills as well as safety training. Kayla finished eighth last year at the competition out of 118 juniors. In 2010 she finished 21st overall out of 126 juniors. However, last fall was the first time she took her skills to the field in search of big game. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13748/big-score-with-a-bow Thu, 26 Jan 2012 13:12:10 GMT 13748 A bounce here or a bounce there and the outcome might have been different. The Crook County Cowboys played quite possibly their best game of the season — yet still came up short on Tuesday as they fell 64-61 to the Redmond Panthers in their Intermountain Hybrid basketball game. “It was a good game down to the wire,” said Crook?County head coach Jeff Lowenbach. “It was a hard way to lose. We played well. Basically, it was our best game of the year from start to finish.” http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13745/cchs-comes-up-short-at-redmond Thu, 26 Jan 2012 12:55:37 GMT 13745 The Mitchell Loggers are playing their best basketball of the season — and the timing couldn’t be better. This past weekend, the Loggers rolled past the Spray Eagles, 56-38, then dominated the Long Creek Mountaineers, 61-39. “These were good wins for us,” said head coach Cy Miller. “It looks like it will be us, Spray, and Long Creek fighting for third in the west half of the High Desert League.” http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13746/loggers-defeat-eagles-mountaineers Thu, 26 Jan 2012 12:55:37 GMT 13746 Anyone who saw Crook?County’s loss to Redmond Tuesday night knows that the better team doesn’t always win. The Cowgirls dominated the game for three quarters, before collapsing in the fourth quarter of a 49-44 loss to the Redmond Panthers in Intermountain Hybrid girls basketball action. “Not much fun — that one,” said Crook?County head coach Dave Johnson. “There’s no way we should have lost that one.” http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13747/total-meltdown Thu, 26 Jan 2012 12:55:37 GMT 13747 When the Crook County Planning Commission approved a wind farm in the southwest portion of the county, construction was set to start in early 2010. Now, nearly two years after that initially-projected start date, construction still awaits and may not happen until 2013 or later. At this point, the project faces three needs before it can move forward. The first involves mitigation for golden eagles. Much like the concerns raised about the impact to sage grouse habitat, which stalled the project for more than a year, the U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife said that the wind farm would adversely affect golden eagles. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13743/wind-farm-project-delayed-again Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:40:50 GMT 13743 For the first time, the United States Supreme Court issued a ruling on a provision that involves a legal doctrine known as the “Ministerial Exception.” Religious colleges, churches, and other organizations have had their eyes on the case that was handed down by Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr. on Jan. 11, 2012. The U.S. Supreme Court issued the ruling that gives religious organizations wide latitude in hiring and firing clergy and other employees who perform their religious duties. The case included Hosanna-Tabor Evangelical Lutheran Church and School versus Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and involved the dismissal of a teacher at the school — who performed both secular and religious duties. The teacher had argued that she had been dismissed in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, or ADA. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13744/supreme-court-gives-churches-ministerial-exception-for-hiring Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:40:50 GMT 13744 In the past few years, national average gas prices have climbed as high as $4.29, and Crook County topped $4.50 as well. While prices have dropped under $4 nationally, as well as locally, for more than three years, gas price analysts worry that the national average could go there again. On Jan. 3, GasBuddy.com reported that gasoline costs $3.26 nationwide, the highest ever for the beginning of the year. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13742/gas-prices-continue-their-upward-climb Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:39:14 GMT 13742 Prineville residents Dean and Nancy Laney consider their dog Paddy a gentle giant. The dark-gray, wirehaired, Irish wolfhound stands nearly three-feet tall and weighs around 130 pounds. Next month, Paddy will compete alongside his owners in the ultimate dog show in the United States, the Westminster Dog Show. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13741/ready-for-westminster Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:36:24 GMT 13741 Audiences who anticipate the annual program of the Prineville Follies can expect a great line-up of performances this year. The one thing that has changed, however, is that the show will no longer be managed by Marv and Mary Cochran. They have made the decision to retire from the Crook County Boy Choir and the Prineville Follies. The Cochrans started managing the program through the Crook County Boy Choir in 1983, and kept it going strong for 28 years. The Follies has offered a venue for local talent to perform a variety of performances and share their talent with the community. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13740/legacies-and-changes Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:30:58 GMT 13740 The Crook County School District is currently looking into the possibility of starting an on-line, virtual charter school The school district currently has 130 students enrolled in its current virtual school, but a charter school would allow the program to expand. However, implementing a charter school would allow the program to expand to include students from throughout the state. The move is made possible because of House Bill 2301, which is part of a series of 14 educational reform bills passed during the 2011 legislative session. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13739/virtual-charter-school-proposal-should-be-carefully-scrutinized Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:29:05 GMT 13739 It’s an all-too-common — and challenging — scenario. At 85 years of age, Grandma still proudly lives in her own home, even though persistent, age-related problems begin to make her life difficult. At first it’s the simple things — the laundry and basic housekeeping — but there’s soon coming a time when Grandma will need a hand, or even around-the-clock care. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13737/easing-the-transition-to-assisted-living Mon, 23 Jan 2012 13:53:12 GMT 13737 Slow cooker meals not only save you time in the kitchen, they are a great way to create a meal for the entire family. Creating a variety of meals has never been easier — just add a green salad and bread, and you will have dinner on the table in no time at all. If you keep in mind these helpful tips, you will be ensured a great dinner for your family, with little fuss for you. When purchasing a slow cooker, look for one with a removable liner. They are much easier to clean. Only fill the slow cooker one-half to two-thirds full. The foods will not cook properly if the appliance is filled to the brim. If the food and liquid level is lower, the foods will cook too quickly. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13738/get-your-dinner-on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 13:53:12 GMT 13738 Crook County’s five-game winning streak is over. The Bend Lava Bears used their superior size to pound the ball inside, taking a 47-31 victory over the Cowgirls Friday night in Intermountain Hybrid basketball action. Bend post players Ally McConnell (19), and Mekayla Isaak (17) combined for 36 of the Lava Bears’ 47 points, as Bend pulled away for the win. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13734/cowgirls-fall-to-bears Mon, 23 Jan 2012 12:54:05 GMT 13734 The Crook County Cowboys continue to roll. On Thursday, Crook County ran out to an early 21-0 lead, en route to an easy 50-12 Intermountain Hybrid dual meet victory over the Mountain View Cougars. “They are an improved team,” said Crook County head coach Jake Huffman. “They have some good young kids and they competed tonight and gave us a good fight.” http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13735/grapplers-rout-mountain-view Mon, 23 Jan 2012 12:54:05 GMT 13735 Crook County kept things close for a while. However, in the end, the Bend Lava Bears had too much fire power as they pulled away for a 79-60 Intermountain Hybrid boys basketball victory last Friday night. “We actually played a real solid 12 minutes of basketball in the first half,” Crook County head coach Jeff Lowenbach said. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13736/lava-bears-outscore-cowboys-79-60 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 12:54:05 GMT 13736 You must carry chains with you in ALL mountain passes; please be prepared to use them. Be alert for fallen trees, debris, mudflows and landslides; be prepared for delays and road closures. Portland metro area: http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13733/oregon-highway-status-report Fri, 20 Jan 2012 15:35:32 GMT 13733 In November 2011, federal bank regulators ordered certain mortgage servicers to identify consumers whose homes faced foreclosure between Jan. 1, 2009 and Dec. 31, 2010. These consumers should have received a letter by the end of 2011 indicating that they may request an independent review of their foreclosure. If the review finds that the homeowner suffered financial injury caused by deficiencies in the foreclosure process, they may be eligible for compensation. There is no cost associated with the federal government's Independent Foreclosure Review program. Unfortunately, scam artists are also contacting Oregon consumers and offering to conduct an "Independent Foreclosure Home Loan Review" or a "securitization review" for a fee. Attorney General John Kroger warns Oregonians to steer clear of independent foreclosure review scams. Beware of anyone who wants payment to assist you with an independent foreclosure review or any other homeowner assistance or foreclosure prevention program http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13730/scam-alert-fake-foreclosure-review-offers Fri, 20 Jan 2012 10:22:35 GMT 13730 An economic open forum is taking place Wednesday, Jan. 25, from 6 to 8 p.m., at the 4-H building off Lynn Blvd. The event focus is on jobs and the economic future of Crook County. The forum will be moderated by Oregon Representative Mike McLane, and will feature a panel that includes Jason Carr of Economic Development of Central Oregon, Carolyn Eagan, Regional Economist for the Oregon Employment Department, Prineville City Manager Steve Forrester, Steve Holiday, Prineville Disposal owner and Prineville Economic Development Board Chair, and Jeff Papke of COCC Crook County Open Campus. The event will include presentations by Carr on the overall economic situation, EDCO's role in the community, and data centers. Carolyn Eagan will provide 10-year employment projections for the state of Oregon and what that means for Crook County, and Jeff Papke will talk about the role of Open Campus and education. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13731/economic-forum-slated-for-prineville Fri, 20 Jan 2012 10:22:35 GMT 13731 Governor John Kitzhaber today declared a state of emergency and authorized the use of state resources for the rapid and effective response to recent storms and flooding. “The return of severe winter weather has overwhelmed communities across our state,” said Kitzhaber. “My priority is to ensure the safety of all Oregonians and their properties. With this emergency declaration, I have directed all available state resources to help affected counties in any way possible.” The initial Governor’s declaration will include Marion, Coos, Benton, and Lincoln counties. Other counties are anticipated to be added to the declaration at a later time. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13732/governor-kitzhaber-declares-emergency-due-to-severe-winter-weather Fri, 20 Jan 2012 10:22:35 GMT 13732 Betty June Johns passed away on Jan. 13, 2012. She was born April 16, 1926, in Prineville, to Darrell and Besy Templeton. Betty met and married Sherman W. Johns on Jan. 1, 1958. They lived in the Willamette Valley until the late 70’s when they moved to Central Oregon. Betty and Sherman loved to play bingo and go for drives together. Betty and Sherman were loved by all that knew them and will be missed. Betty is survived by sons, Leonard (Leo) Johns and Darrell Landon; daughters Sharon Henderschmeyer, Tamesa (Tammy) Rohach, and Donna Kendall; and stepson Sherman Lee Johns. She was predeceased in death by her husband Sherman in 2008, and stepdaughter Beverly Johns. No formal services will be held. Condolences can be extended to the family at www.deschutesmemorialchapel.com. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13729/betty-johns Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:30:53 GMT 13729 Jyrle “Jere” Douglas Breese, a Prineville resident, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2012, at his home with his family by his side. He was 42 years of age. A celebration of Jere’s life will be held Saturday, Jan. 21, 2012, at 11:30 a.m., at Eastside Church. Pastor Chris Cookston will officiate. A reception will follow for all family and friends. A full obituary will appear next week. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13726/jyrle-jere-breese Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:30:53 GMT 13726 Elsie Mae Goins, a Fossil resident, passed away peacefully on Friday, Jan. 13, 2012, at her home, with her family by her side after a long struggle with illness. She was 74 years of age. A celebration will be held Saturday, Jan. 21, 2012, at 2 p.m. at the Fossil United Methodist Church. Pastor Pearl Whistler will officiate. A reception will follow for all family and friends. A private inurement will be held at 3 Point Cemetery in Fossil. Elsie was born in Portland, Ore. on Feb. 27, 1937, to Thomas Elwood and Doris http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13727/elsie-goins Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:30:53 GMT 13727 Royce Lenard Dean, of La Pine (formerly of Prineville), passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2012. He was 89 years old. No services will be held, per Royces request. The family will host a private gathering in the summertime. Royce was born July 17, 1922, in Maysville, Okla., to Osker and Katie (Williams) Dean. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13728/royce-dean-dean Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:30:53 GMT 13728 The Crook County School Board entered into some uncharted water at the January school board meeting with a proposal put on the table to implement a virtual charter school. At the meeting, JD McMahan and Roger Stewart from Insight School of Oregon made a proposal to the school board to consider a charter school with the current online school and Crook County School District. The charter school could potentially increase the current district enrollment with Insight School of Oregon to as many as 2,275 students. Crook County currently has 130 students enrolled in the virtual school. McMahan said at the school board meeting that his staff would assume the work of creating and maintaining the charter school. The charter school would also include students from kindergarten through 12th grade. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13721/ccsd-looking-into-possible-virtual-charter Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:00:51 GMT 13721 After spending three decades in the farming industry, Republican Karl Scronce was ready to move on to something different. He had already spent time in the political arena, having served on multiple agricultural boards while participating in his local Republican Central Committee and lobbying on behalf of state bills. Now he has his sights set on the Oregon Legislature, and recently filed to challenge incumbent Republican Doug Whitsett for Senate District 28. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13722/scronce-to-challenge-whitsett Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:00:51 GMT 13722 For residents of rural Crook County communities like Post or Paulina, when a fire breaks out, landowners could be on their own. Those who live outside the Crook County Fire and Rescue (CCFR) district do not receive the same tax-funded protection as people living in or near Prineville. And those rural residents are not alone. “Right now, in Eastern Oregon, we have about 3.5 million acres of unprotected private land,” said Gordon Foster, rangeland fire protection coordinator for the Oregon Department of Forestry. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13723/joining-forces-in-the-name-of-fire-protection Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:00:51 GMT 13723 Following adoption of an Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife-initiated sage grouse conservation plan, the Bureau of Land Management is now developing their own plan. As they embark on that process, they have begun soliciting public input, and will come to Prineville to hear from residents next Thursday. “At the local level, the BLM (Bureau of Land Management) has taken on a lot of the strategy from ODFW (Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife),” said BLM spokesperson Jeff Clark. “But nationally, there is a new strategy for the BLM for the species range-wide. So we’ve just basically started that process.” http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13724/blm-seeking-input-on-sage-grouse-conservation Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:00:51 GMT 13724 The issue of aging facilities has once again hit the radar of the Crook County School Board, and the ultimate decision to move ahead for a bond will ultimately be in the hands of voters. The district is hoping the bond can be on the Nov. 12. 2012 or May 13. 2013 ballot. At the Jan. 9 Crook County School Board meeting, Maintenance Director Deen Hylton announced that they had sent out the written proposals for a facilities condition assessment that would enable the district to address facility maintenance over the next 20 years. Wednesday, Hylton said that they had received three RFPs back from well-qualified professionals. A review committee was formed, including Gary King, Ed Jensen, Greg Munn, Doug Smith, and Deen Hylton. The committee reviewed the three RFPs and will make a recommendation to the board at an upcoming work session. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13725/school-district-focuses-on-facility-repairs Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:00:51 GMT 13725 You must carry chains with you in ALL mountain passes; please be prepared to use them. Be prepared for delays and road closures; be alert for downed trees, debris, mudflows and landslides. Portland metro area http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13719/oregon-highway-status-report Thu, 19 Jan 2012 13:56:10 GMT 13719 Every January, the Hult Center in Eugene is filled with the sounds of young voices of Honor-Choir students from around the state of Oregon. This year, six students from Crook County High School and Crook County Middle School accompanied their choir instructor Hannah Moorman to the Oregon Music Educators Association All-State Honor Choir earlier this month. For Jozee Moss and Karson Adams, this is their second time to be selected for the event, and they came back from the 2012 All-State Honor Choir with renewed confidence and appreciation for the sounds of a full-mixed choir. Last year, the two CCHS students were part of an all-men’s choir as part of the performance. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13720/making-a-joyful-sound Thu, 19 Jan 2012 13:56:10 GMT 13720 The Mountain View Cougars simply have too much firepower for the Cowboys. When Crook County played Mountain View in December, the Cougars came away with a 92-36 victory. Tuesday, the?Cowboys were closer, but they still fell 72-45 to the Cougars. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13714/cougars-overpower-cowboys-72-45 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 12:07:07 GMT 13714 The Mitchell High School girls basketball team is having their most competitive season in years. Although the Loggers are just 3-7 on the season, they have been in a number of close ball games. Last weekend, the Mitchell girls dropped a tough game to Prairie City 25-36, before rebounding to defeat Ukiah 48-8. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13715/loggers-split-weekend-games Thu, 19 Jan 2012 12:07:07 GMT 13715 Jerren Larimer left for Tucson, Ariz., early last Friday morning saying that he was “just going to do my best.” That’s exactly what Larimer, a senior at Redmond Proficiency Academy, and a member of the Crook County High School baseball team, did. Larimer was in Tucson for the three-day Under Armour Pre-Season All-American Tournament. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13716/larimer-has-success-at-all-american-tournament Thu, 19 Jan 2012 12:07:07 GMT 13716 The Crook County Cowgirls survived an early Mountain View run to take a 53-47 victory in Intermountain Hybrid basketball action last Tuesday night. “It was a good win,” said head coach Dave Johnson. “Any time you can get a win at Mountain View — that’s huge. It doesn’t happen very often.” The Cowgirls started the game in a full-court zone press. Mountain View easily broke the press, leading to easy baskets as they ran out to a 12-4 lead midway through the first quarter. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13717/cowgirls-knock-off-cougars-for-fifth-straight-win Thu, 19 Jan 2012 12:07:07 GMT 13717 There is an old axiom that says that offense sells tickets, but defense wins championships. After watching the first two rounds of the NFL?playoffs, it looks once again like that may be true. New England is the only team among the league leaders in scoring that is still alive in the playoffs, while two of the top three defenses in the league are still playing. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13718/conference-championships-feature-defense Thu, 19 Jan 2012 12:07:07 GMT 13718 Due to some of the most severe winter weather conditions in years, Mt. Bachelor has decided to suspend all operations until Friday, Jan. 20. The combination of extremely heavy snow (35 inches in the past 24 hours), dangerously strong wind, high avalanche risk, power outages and difficulties with snow removal from their parking lots and access roads necessitates that they remain closed to the public on Thursday. They will have essential personnel working throughout the day to aid in the recovery from this storm, in hopes of re-opening at 9 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 20. After receiving nearly five feet of new snow in the past three days, their snowpack has tripled in depth, resulting in excellent skiiing and snowboarding conditions once the weather settles down. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13712/mt-bachelor-closed-for-thursday Thu, 19 Jan 2012 10:29:50 GMT 13712 U.S. Rep. Greg Walden has announced that he will hold a telephone town hall discussion on Monday, Jan. 23, from 9 to 10 a.m. PST. Rep. Walden will answer questions from residents of Oregon’s second district on a variety of topics, including ways to get job creation going in southern, central, and eastern Oregon. Tens of thousands of households across the district will receive telephone calls beginning at 9 a.m., on Monday morning inviting them to participate in the discussion. http://www.centraloregonian.com/archives/story.aspx/13713/rep-walden-hosting-telephone-town-hall Thu, 19 Jan 2012 10:29:50 GMT 13713