From the reporter’s notebook
Published 10:00 am Sunday, March 19, 2023
- Lee Carlson, 81, works Tuesday, March 7, 2023, building chicken coops at his home garage in Hermiston. “I prefer to always work and do something,” he said.
The Hermiston Herald continues to evolve for dealing with being down a full-time reporter/editor, and that transition has been bumpy. But week to week, we’re smoothing out those bumps.
We’ve set reporter Beau Glynn on more of a regular schedule of what stories to tackle first, and we’re seeing that some of our freelancers can produce impressive features, so some of those names might become more common.
Case in point, Lisa Connell’s story on Hermiston’s Lee Carlson, who builds chicken coops. More than just a business story, this was a look at the man and his life.
We’re working on a number of follow-ups to the big story on how the Umatilla Police Department did not take seriously the reports from a local girl who was the victim of a sexual predator. One angle we’re looking into concerns the police department’s accreditation, so stay tuned for that and related stories.
In other law enforcement news, Hermiston Police Chief Jason Edmiston discussed his department’s response to a swatting call on Feb. 21 at Hermiston High School. Reporter Dakota Castets-Didier wrote that the chief was grateful no one was physically injured in the incident.
With approximately 30 law enforcement personnel responding to the incident, Edmiston said the coordinated effort was reflective of diligent training.
Highlighting the people that live and work in Boardman, reporter Beau Glynn wrote about those honored during the 33rd annual distinguished citizens banquet. Held March 11 at the Port of Morrow Riverfront Center, Francis Glenn, Marcie Rodelo and former City Manager Karen Pettigrew were among those receiving recognition.
In the coming edition of the Hermiston Herald, the spotlight shines on Boardman again. With Ordnance Brewing recently reopening its taproom, Glynn caught up with the folks for an update. Brewer Kodi Foden shares about his craft and plans for the future.
Also, look for a story about the Good Shepherd Primary Care Clinic terminating its therapeutic relationship with a nonbinary patient. Rae Galloway was notified in a letter dated Jan. 4 that patient care for them and their family would be discontinued in 30 days.
On Jan. 5, Good Shepherd hosted a training session titled “Understanding Sexual Orientation & Gender Identity to Improve Patient Health.” Although they hadn’t received the letter yet, Galloway attended the session and vocalized concerns.
Caitlin Cozad, Good Shepherd Health Care System marketing and communications director, said the goal of the training was to improve overall patient care. She said Good Shepherd aims to provide a “ … welcoming environment that demonstrates respect and value for all patients.”
Thank you for your continued support of the Hermiston Herald and quality journalism.
Tammy Malgesini is the community editor for the Hermiston Herald.
