Spanning the State: The Biscuits are Burning! Edition

Carla Axtman

Along with newspaper reporters, photo journalist positions have been cut at newspapers across the country. Yet with all its faults, the Oregonian still seems capable of sending photographers to community events in the Portland metro area, and they do some pretty great work.

Local people should get to see their picture in the town newspaper every once in a while. Not every story has to be a hard-hitting piece of journalism. Sometimes it's important to simply see community in action.

And now, let's Span the State!

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Recently, a truck carrying a load of biscuits caught fire while traveling on the freeway near Durkee. Oregon State Police Sr. Trooper Ed Mercado said the truck driver was traveling from Utah to Washington when his truck caught fire in the westbound lanes at Milepost 328. The driver told Officer Mercado that he pulled off the highway when he noticed his anti-lock brake system light was on. When he got out of the truck, he noticed the left rear tire was burning. The tractor trailer and the load of biscuits quickly burned and were destroyed in the fire.

Last week, the US Department of Justice announced that they're awarding grants totaling $4.2 million to five of Oregon's Native American tribes. The money is part of $190 million for 110 tribes, Alaskan native villages and tribal groups to aid in ending alcohol and substance abuse and violence against women.

Apparently, thievery is alive and well in Wilsonville.

Two brush fires in Bend have been caused by squirrels electrocuting themselves as they touch two power lines.

Community gardens in Imnaha, Joseph, Enterprise, Lostine, and Wallowa are providing free produce to schools, nonprofits, food banks that in turn pass it on to those in need. Last year, Joseph-based Magic Gardens gave away a about three tons of food from gardens near Imnaha and the Joseph Charter School. That figure is expected to increase this year with an addition of another 100’ x 100’ garden now producing crops near Imnaha.

By Carla Axtman Sept. 23, 2013