Your trusted source for local Pendleton, OR news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
A former employee of the Short Stop in La Grande faces theft and computer crime charges after allegedly attempting to claim a $25,000 Oregon Lottery prize. The incident, part of a retail integrity check, underscores issues related to theft and crime in the region. Law enforcement, including the Oregon State Police, is involved in the ongoing investigation.
An Oregon corrections officer has been found to have sanctioned a violent assault on an inmate at the Eastern Oregon Correctional Institution in Pendleton in 2022. The case raises significant concerns regarding misconduct within the Oregon Department of Corrections and its impact on inmate safety and justice.
The Columbia Development Authority board is engaging legal counsel to establish an effective evaluation process for CEO Greg Smith. This decision underscores the board's commitment to ensuring accountability and transparency in leadership roles within the organization.
A statewide plan has been published to tackle nitrate contamination in the Lower Umatilla Basin Groundwater Management Area, following persistent requests from Morrow and Umatilla county residents. The plan aims to address ongoing environmental concerns affecting local water supplies, showcasing the importance of community engagement in environmental management.
Data from the Oregon Statewide Assessment System's spring 2024 tests reveal that students in Oregon continue to struggle, showing performance levels below those seen before the pandemic. The results highlight ongoing educational challenges within the state's school districts, particularly in Umatilla and Morrow counties.
Residents of Boardman will participate in a crucial vote on November 5, regarding a measure aimed at updating the city's charter. This decision is significant for local governance and reflects the community's engagement in shaping their administrative framework.
Oregon Department of Human Services has finalized a 99-page lease to expand social-service offices in Eastern Oregon, reflecting a long-awaited development in local support for vulnerable populations. This relocation signifies a commitment to addressing critical social issues such as child care, homelessness, and affordable housing in the region.
The Treasure Mountain Festival crowned its royalty over the weekend of August 24 and 25, celebrating the achievements of local young women. The event highlighted various titles, including Mini Miss, Tiny Miss, Junior Miss, and others, showcasing community spirit and engagement.
McKenzie VanDevander, a 13-year-old from West Virginia, was crowned the 2024-2025 National Miss Military Star Junior Queen after competing in the national pageant held in Erie, Pennsylvania. The local Miss Military Star West Virginia pageant took place earlier this year, marking a significant event in the community. This achievement highlights the importance of youth participation in community and national events.
Pendleton County Emergency Rescue has partnered with the local school system to implement a medical timeout protocol following the tragic death of an eighth-grade football player at Madison Middle School. This initiative aims to enhance the safety of student-athletes and prevent future incidents.