Baker High students honored by Kiwanis Club

BAKER CITY — The Kiwanis Club honored two Baker High School students through the club’s student recognition program on Nov. 14, 2024.

Junior Eli Trebilcock was nominated by Jordan Beery “for the incredible growth she has shown over the past three years.”

“To say she has faced adversity is an understatement, and coming out of that figuring out who she is is impressive,” Beery said. “Eli may not win any awards for academics, but the growth that I have seen is worth far more than any letter grade could.”

Senior Takota Davis was nominated by Rachel Balza.

“I am impressed by how unfailingly kind Kota is and open-minded to hearing perspectives outside his own,” Balza said. “You truly would not be able to find a more commendable individual who flies under the radar, never asking for any kind of attention but who goes the extra mile.”

La Grande seeks volunteers for committees

LA GRANDE — The La Grande City Council is recruiting members for its advisory commissions and committees.

Positions are available on these committees:

• Air Quality: (three positions open on a seven-member board).

• Arts: (two positions open; seven-member board).

• Budget: (three positions open; seven-member board).

• Building Board of Appeals: (four positions open; five-member board).

• Community Landscape and Forestry: (one position open; five-member board).

• Landmarks: (three positions open; five-member board).

• Library: (two positions open; five-member board).

• Parking, Traffic Safety and Street Maintenance: (three positions open; seven-member board).

• Parks and Recreation: (three positions open; seven-member board).

• Planning: (three positions open; five-member board).

• Union County Tourism Advisory (two positions open).

• Urban Renewal Advisory: (two positions open; five-member board).

Information about these advisory commissions and committees can be found on the city’s website, www.cityoflagrande.org, or by calling Keri Quinn, assistant to the city manager, at 541-962-1309 or Stacey Stockhoff, city recorder, at 541-962-1351. For a link to an application form go to www.cityoflagrande.org or contact Quinn or Stockhoff to make arrangements to pick up an application or to have one mailed.

To be considered during the council’s meeting on Jan. 8, 2025, completed applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Dec. 16.

Applications can be mailed to the City of La Grande, 1000 Adams Ave, PO Box 670, (Attn: Keri Quinn or Stacey Stockhoff); emailed to kquinn@cityoflagrande.org or sstockhoff@cityoflagrande.org; or dropped off at the city manager’s office (upstairs in City Hall, 1000 Adams Ave.) for consideration.

Applications will still be accepted after the deadline; however, these applications will be considered by the city council at its February meeting if vacancies remain.

Newsweek honors Hermiston School District

HERMISTON — Hermiston School District has earned national recognition in Newsweek’s Education Series 2024, spotlighting its innovative approach to career and technical education.

The district, which serves approximately 5,500 students, in a statement Friday, Nov. 15, reported the Newsweek feature highlights the district’s standout programs, including hands-on construction projects, student-run businesses and strong community partnerships that provide students with apprenticeships and job placements.

The district reported its dedication to fostering employability skills and personal growth underscores its mission to prepare students to succeed in the global economy.

“We are honored to be featured in Newsweek,” Tricia Mooney, superintendent of the Hermiston School District, said in the statement. “This recognition reflects our commitment to empowering students with the skills and experiences they need to build a brighter future.”

Read the full Newsweek Education Series online at https://tinyurl.com/bdd8k3dh.

Pet food drive in Baker City

BAKER CITY — Bisnett Insurance, 2001 Main St., is hosting its annual pet food collection drive for Best Friends of Baker through Dec. 13.

The need is especially urgent for dry food for adult cats. Bisnett is also accepting dry food for kittens and for dogs, as well as monetary donations and items that can be sold at Best Friends of Baker’s thrift store.