Connect with us

Oregon

Judge rules for Oregon State and Washington, says departing Pac-12 schools can’t hold meeting

Published

on

Judge rules for Oregon State and Washington, says departing Pac-12 schools can’t hold meeting


WHITMAN COUNTY Wash. (AP) – A judge granted a request by Oregon State and Washington State for a temporary restraining order on Monday to prevent departing Pac-12 members from meeting until it can be determined who has the right to chart the future of the disintegrating conference.

At a hearing in Whitman County Superior Court in Washington, Judge Gary Libey ruled that a board of directors meeting scheduled for later this week with conference Commissioner George Kliavkoff and university leaders from 10 departing members cannot take place.

Washington State President Kirk Schulz, who now serves as the chairman of the Pac-12′s board, and athletic director Pat Chun attended the hearing at a courthouse not far from the school’s Pullman campus. The judge did not immediately set another court date.

Oregon State and Washington State want full control over decision making for the conference as the only schools committed to the league beyond the current school year. The schools filed the breach of bylaws complaint Friday.

Advertisement

SEE ALSO: Oregon State, Washington State file complaint against Pac-12

“I am pleased with today’s decision. As the two remaining Pac- 12 members, Oregon State and Washington State must be able to chart a path forward for the Pac 12–not the members that have chosen to leave it,” Oregon State President Jayathi Murthy said in a statement.

Leaders of the Pacific Northwest schools have stated they would like to rebuild the Pac-12, taking control of its assets and intellectual property while preserving its brand. They say they fear the outgoing schools will try to dissolve the conference and divvy up its assets on the way out the door if they are permitted to convene a board meeting.

“Members who have announced that they are leaving to join a competitor no longer have any loyalty to the Pac-12, cannot be entrusted to make decisions on behalf of the Pac-12,” said Eric MacMichael, an attorney for Oregon State.

MacMichael said on the agenda for the scheduled meeting was a discussion of amending the conference bylaws. He also accused departing members of plotting to use Pac-12 assets to fund their transitions to other conferences.

Advertisement

The Pac-12′s attorney, Mark Lambert, said the meeting was called by Kliavkoff to address the operation of the conference for the rest of the school year. He also disputed the plaintiff’s assertion that schools were considering using Pac-12 funds to pay for transition costs.

SEE ALSO: Oregon State University talk conference shakeup

“There are certainly the types of amendments that could be very harmful to their interests, but none of those are on the table and there’s no evidence that a motion for dissolution or a motion to hoard conference funds is even in discussion,” Lambert said.

MacMichael said under the Pac-12 bylaws, Oregon State and Washington State should have the opportunity to keep the conference alive without any interference from outgoing members.

Oregon State and Washington State contend that eight schools —- Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado, Utah, Oregon, Washington, Stanford and California — forfeited their right to be on the board when they announced their intentions to join other conferences next year.

Advertisement

USC and UCLA were stripped of voting rights by the Pac-12 in 2022 when they decided to join the Big Ten.

The eight schools that have announced their departures over the last month and half dispute what constitutes formal notification of departure from the conference, according to the bylaws.

The official departure date for schools leaving the Pac-12 is July 31, 2024.

SEE ALSO: Big Ten grabs Oregon, Washington; Big 12 completes Pac-12 raid with Arizona, Arizona State and Utah

Lambert said there is still conference business to attend to by the league office, including the retention of nearly 200 employees.

Advertisement

Libey did allow for the conference to continue to conduct day-to-day business as usual, and granted Lambert’s request to permit the league office to take actions that are agreed upon by unanimous written vote of the 10 members that made up the board before the latest round of departures.

Lambert said Kliavkoff and the conference office are caught in the middle of a conflict between Oregon State and Washington State and the outgoing schools.

There were no attorneys for any of the departing schools present for the hearing.

“Each are highly suspicious of the other,” Lambert said.

Advertisement



Source link

Continue Reading
Advertisement
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Oregon

8 Towns in The Pacific Northwest With the Best Downtown Areas in 2024

Published

on

8 Towns in The Pacific Northwest With the Best Downtown Areas in 2024


Carved by glaciers, volcanoes, and dramatic landscapes, the Pacific Northwest of the US, formed by Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, is pure paradise. Its mountains are blanketed by lush rainforests, and the Pacific Ocean is lined by the cozy countryside. Paradisiacal peaks like Mount Rainier and Mount Hood pierce the clouds, while glacial lakes such as Crater Lake and Lake Pend Oreille bring an eternal glow to the valleys. Beyond the jaw-dropping scenery, charming towns offer downtowns with dynamic communities. Ready for an exploration of these gems? Check out these towns where the downtown areas steal the show!

Ashland, Oregon

Street view in Ashland, Oregon, via Nature’s Charm / Shutterstock.com

As the birthplace of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Ashland has cemented its status as a regal arts town throughout the decades. This performing arts venue attracts theater fans and art enthusiasts all year long, sparking a vibrant downtown where lots of restaurants and shops pop up to cater to discerning palates.

After a show, walk a few steps to Main Street or Lithia Way to dig into a symphony of local offerings. For quick bites, you can’t go wrong with Taqueria Picaro; locals especially love their mahi mahi tacos. If you fancy a drink with your group, the go-to in town are Skout Taphouse & Provisions and O’Ryans Irish Pub.

Commemorate your trip and snag a cool memento from the town’s quirky shops. Paddington Station has all things cute for sale, such as handy kitchen items and holiday novelties. When you feel like pampering yourself, indulge in some wellness shopping at Elder Apothecary, known for its line of herbs, teas, and tinctures.

Advertisement

Also located downtown is the crown jewel of Ashland: Lithia Park. This panoramic central park is an ideal place to wind down and just appreciate this town’s undeniable beauty. There is a Japanese garden, a fountain, a pickleball court, a picnic area, and miles and miles of riverside trails for visitors to explore.

Florence, Oregon

William Kyle & Sons Building, Florence, Oregon
William Kyle & Sons Building, Florence, Oregon. Image credit Acroterion, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Dreaming of a paradisiacal coastal escape with a flourishing community? Florence might just be the haven you are looking for. It’s cradled right where the Siuslaw River meets the Pacific Ocean. The town is home to the otherworldly Sea Lion Caves, which is the largest of its kind nationwide and fosters a thriving population of Steller sea lions.

On Maple Street, the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum is a worthy stop for curious minds. You’ll get to know the origins of Florence and the Siuslaw region at large. The museum also hosts a gift shop if you’d like a souvenir to take home, or you could swing by Ärtêfacts on Bay Street for unique coast-inspired tchotchkes.

Dive even deeper into the downtown area and have a taste of the vibrant locale. For a quick pick-me-up in the day, River Roasters serves an array of classic espresso drinks and specialty coffee. As a coastal town, Florence is abundant with top-notch seafood; head over to Mo’s Seafood & Chowder or Novelli’s Crab and Seafood for the best chowders on the Oregon Coast.

Astoria, Oregon

The Liberty Theater in downtown Astoria, Oregon
The Liberty Theater in downtown Astoria, Oregon. Image credit Bob Pool via Shutterstock

Close to the Washington border and nestled along the Columbia River, Astoria is another picturesque Oregon town near the Pacific. It’s famously known for the Astoria Column atop Coxcomb Hill; locals and visitors often flock to this site and climb over 160 steps to get uninterrupted city views from the observation deck. If you’re one to enjoy long walks, make sure to include the Riverwalk Trail in your list of things to do in town. You could start up east on Lagoon Road and traverse the 6.4-mile trail all the way to Pier 3 of the Port of Astoria. Along the way, you’ll encounter all that the electric downtown has to offer.

You can make a fun day out of visiting the Oregon Film Museum on Duane Street, and 80s film fans may even recognize the building from the riveting opening scene in The Goonies. The museum extensively showcases all the movies and TV shows that were filmed in Oregon.

Up to 200 local artisans and farmers offer their products to the public at the Astoria Sunday Market on 12th Street; if you love supporting local, this marketplace shouldn’t be missed. Live entertainment and an array of food kiosks make the market extra inviting.

Advertisement

As with most coastal towns, Astoria is brimming with high-quality seafood. If you want some fresh catch (or maybe wish to cook your own!), South Bay Wild Fish House, a restaurant and seafood market in one, might be right up your alley!

Winthrop, Washington

Street view of downtown Winthrop
Street view of downtown Winthrop. Image credit MelissaMN via stock.adobe.com

Tucked in the mountains of Methow Valley in Okanogan County, Winthrop is a wonderland that will make you feel like you’ve jumped back in time. The spirit of the Wild West is very much alive in this mountain town; pair that with an ever-blossoming community and you’ve got yourself a fine getaway.

If you’re planning a fun day of skiing, Methow Trails is said to have the best cross-country skiing slopes in the area. For hikers seeking their next adventure, this mountain town is actually a gateway to the lush landscapes of North Cascades National Park. Meanwhile, folks who prefer a more casual hike might enjoy a stroll through Pearrygin Lake State Park.

In downtown Winthrop, the classic American Old West design is prominent. Walking through Riverside Avenue will feel like stepping into a spaghetti Western movie set. For a caffeine fix, Rocking Horse Bakery serves top-tier espresso drinks and luscious coffee cake. If you fancy mingling with fellow travelers or even locals, join the happy hour at Three Fingered Jack’s Saloon.

La Conner, Washington

Stairs lead down to the street in downtown La Conner, Washington.
Stairs lead down to the street in downtown La Conner, Washington

La Conner, a charming little town on the Swinomish Channel in Skagit Bay, is a peaceful retreat in the Pacific Northwest. It is ideally nestled between Seattle and Vancouver, attracting urbanites looking for a nice break. The town bursts with friendly folks and a laid-back marina lifestyle.

While the town is a great place to be any time of the year, the best time to visit La Conner is around March, for the La Conner Daffodil Festival, or in April when the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is at full speed. The community hosts a few events in support of the festival and the streets are lined with good food and other offerings.

With so much art and culture to discover, curious cats can head downtown to the Museum of Northwest Art for a glimpse into the prowess of artists throughout the region. This creative spirit is also on full display at the Pacific Northwest Quilt & Fiber Arts Museum, which not only celebrates traditional techniques but also offers educational programs to inspire future generations.

Advertisement

Visitors could explore more of downtown’s gems by renting bikes from PNW Exploration on Second Street. You could rummage for your next quirky collectible at Nasty Jack’s Antiques, find a good read at Seaport Books, and gobble on exquisite meals at Nell Thorn.

Leavenworth, Washington

Downtown street in Leavenworth, Washington.
Downtown street in Leavenworth, Washington. Image credit randy andy via Shutterstock

Perched high up in the Cascade Mountains is the wondrous Bavarian-inspired town of Leavenworth. The town center is punctuated with Alpine-style structures that house one-of-a-kind merchandise shops and eateries. For holidayers who like to have a taste of authentic German fare, München Haus serves classic bratwurst and handcrafted brews. Meanwhile, Mozart’s Restaurant is popular for its seamless fusion of European and Pacific Northwest delicacies.

The downtown block, particularly Front Street Park, also hosts a plethora of events and festivals throughout the year, most notably the Christkindlmarkt, Icefest, and Christmas Lighting Festival during the holiday season. Of course, what’s a Bavarian town without a resounding celebration of Oktoberfest?

Outdoor fiends can go up Leavenworth Ski Hill for snow tubing and cross-country skiing in the winter; come summertime, the mountains reveal stunning landscapes and wildflower views ideal for quiet strolls. The town is also home to Leavenworth Reindeer Farm; this attraction is suitable for vacationers with kids as you’ll have close encounters with these marvelous animals.

Wallace, Idaho

The charming town of Wallace, Idaho.
The charming town of Wallace, Idaho.

Located in the mining district of the Idaho Panhandle, Wallace is known to be the Silver Capital of the World, having produced over a billion ounces of silver since its founding in 1884. Since you’re right in Silver Valley, discovering the town’s roots is a must at Wallace District Mining Museum on Bank Street downtown. For a close-up experience, sign up for the Sierra Silver Mine Tour, where you’ll discover a fascinating underground mine and witness the town’s mining methods first-hand.

Looking to take home something unique? Antique emporiums like North Idaho Trading Company and Johnson’s Gems, Jewelry, & Collectibles have rare and curious finds for all tastes. Browse through their overflowing with one-of-a-kind items and unearth Idaho gold and silver pieces that make the perfect memorabilia for your trip.

Beyond a colorful past and precious metals, Wallace is home to an ever-blossoming entertainment scene. Catch a performance at Sixth Street Melodrama and Theater, the town’s entertainment behemoth for over 40 years. On the same street, you can try local joints like Silver Corner Bar, famous for its pineapple cider, and Blackboard Cafe for some hearty Italian fare in a relaxed atmosphere.

Advertisement

Sandpoint, Idaho

Buildings and businesses lined along First Avenue in Sandpoint, Idaho
Buildings and businesses lined along First Avenue in Sandpoint, Idaho. Editorial credit: Kirk Fisher / Shutterstock.com

Situated along the banks of Lake Pend Oreille, Sandpoint is one of North Idaho’s premier skiing destinations. It’s home to the legendary Schweitzer Mountain Resort, a stunning mountain with terrain parks and ski slopes of varying difficulties.

For a change of pace after hitting the slopes, head to the dynamic locale of Sandpoint City Beach Park, adjacent to the downtown shops and restaurants. This lakefront park is ideal for afternoon picnics, features a nice, small beach, and even offers boat tours of the lake.

Fancy eating out after your antics with nature? Some local favorites are Joel’s, a homey family-owned Mexican joint in front of the downtown parking lot on Church Street, and Eichardt’s Pub Grill & Coffee, a lively hangout spot serving comfort bar grub amidst live music.

When you feel like shopping for some goodies, this lakeside town boasts bustling mercantiles that showcase local artisans and craftspeople. Come down to Cedar Street Bridge Public Market and check out an array of trendy food hubs, eclectic shops, candy stores, and so much more. At Farmin Park, the heart of downtown Sandpoint, the Farmers’ Market typically opens on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Here, you’ll find an arsenal of fresh goods and produce all waiting to be discovered.

Downtown in the Pacific Northwest

Beyond awe-inspiring natural attractions, the Pacific Northwest bursts at the seams with characterful towns with downtown spots that hum with joy. From Ashland’s celebrated theater scene to Florence’s quirky shops and fresh seafood bounty, Oregon’s towns offer something for every soul. Washington gems like Leavenworth, modeled after beautiful Bavaria, and the time capsule that is Winthrop, with its Wild West appeal, provide otherworldly experiences. Meanwhile, Idaho’s Wallace, a land of fine silver and gold, and Sandpoint, a playground for skiing enthusiasts, complete this selection of coastal escapes. Bring your loved ones for a once-in-a-lifetime exploration of this beautiful region!

Advertisement



Source link

Continue Reading

Oregon

Oregon Ducks mourn the tragic loss of cornerback Khyree Jackson

Published

on

Oregon Ducks mourn the tragic loss of cornerback Khyree Jackson


All too soon, Oregon fans across the country received a push notification from ESPN, the NY Times, or another news source, notifying them that beloved former Duck Khyree Jackson had passed.

Jackson became a star for the Ducks after beginning his collegiate career at a junior college and then for the Alabama Crimson Tide. 

Most recently, Jackson was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft.

At Oregon, Jackson stood out amongst his peers and was a phenomenal cornerback for the Ducks’ secondary in 2023.

Advertisement

Jackson was beloved on and off the field, which the Oregon football team showed in a tribute video on social media.

Jackson, along with two of his high school football teammates, were killed in what has been reported as a drunk-driving accident.

The Oregon community has shared its devastation on social media, remembering what a fine player and even better person Jackson was.

In his final collegiate season, Jackson earned 34 total tackles, 7 pass deflections, 3 interceptions, and 2 sacks.

Advertisement

Heartbreakingly, Jackson isn’t the only football player that the Ducks mourn. Just a few years ago, beloved tight end Spencer Webb died in a recreational swimming accident just a few miles from campus.

Hug your loved ones and appreciate the stars you get to witness, both on and off the field.





Source link

Continue Reading

Oregon

Wildfire caused evacuations east of Redmond, temporary closure of airport

Published

on

Wildfire caused evacuations east of Redmond, temporary closure of airport


The McCaffery Fire started Saturday afternoon just east of the Redmond Airport.

Courtesy of Central Oregon Fire Info

A wildfire east of Redmond, Oregon, on Saturday led to evacuations in the Powell Butte area and has led to the temporary closure of the Redmond Airport.

As of 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, the McCaffery Fire was an estimated 250 acres, according to Central Oregon Fire Info, which said in a social media post that “retardant drops have slowed the spread of the fire.”

Advertisement

Level 3 “GO NOW” evacuations was once in place for an area that straddles the Deschutes and Crook County Lines. But At 9:15 p.m., the Crook County Sheriff’s office said on Facebook that “the evacuation level for the area has been dropped to a level 2. People may go home for the night but be ready to evacuate again.”

Level 2 is an evacuation warning, which means there’s a high probability of a need to evacuate. People should be ready to evacuate by packing necessary items and preparing their family, pets and car for potential departure from home.

According to the sheriff’s office, the evacuation zone included the West Powell Butte View Estates. An evacuation shelter has been established at Powell Butte Christian Church. 13720 OR-126, Powell Butte.

As of 8 p.m., OR Highway 126 remained open for traffic, according to ODOT’s TripCheck website.

While the fire itself is not directly impacting the Redmond Airport, the airport was once closed to passenger airline traffic due to the firefighting efforts, according to an announcement on the airport’s website. The airport said on its website that it had reopened to passenger traffic. Passengers should check with their airline for the most up-to-date flight information.

Advertisement



Source link

Continue Reading

Trending