TEXT: This is the text of remarks on Wednesday, Nov. 25, by Dr. David Zonies of Oregon Health and Science University about the urgency of containing the virus in Oregon.

TEXT: This is the text of Gov. Kate Brown's statement on Wednesday, Nov. 25, explaining why she is imposing new restrictions for Oregonians to control the coronavirus

TEXT: This is the prepared text of remarks by Pat Allen, director of the Oregon Health Authority, who spoke of the impacts of the pandemic on Oregonians beyond medical acare

Malheur County is one of 21 counties listed Wednesday as at "extreme risk" of the spreading coronavirus. Gov. Kate Brown announced new measures that will further limit retailers but will allow restaurants to resume dining - outside.

The drive-thru feast begins at noon and runs until 2 p.m. at the restaurant in Vale. The free dinner has been part of the community since 2006 and though it will look a little different this year Starlite Café owner Sharon Bannon said she is happy to provide the venue for the meal.

Local businesses and nonprofits are struggling during the pandemic, and workers are facing a tough winter. But there's a lot we can do in our community to support those who need help if we embrace the spirit of giving.

The "Shop Four Rivers" effort revolves around the purchase of a virtual MasterCard that can be used at stores across Malheur, Payette and Washington counties. The plan is sponsored by the Treasure Valley Community College Small Business Development Center, area chambers of commerce and local merchants.

Ontario police detectives need help to solve the year-old murder of Billy C. Tucker, found dead on the back porch of his Ontario home. Security video showed two people, hooded and masked, arriving at the home. Anonymous tips are welcome, police said.

Restaurant owners at more than a dozen locations in Malheur County said they would be closed to observe the holiday.

Luis Carlos Duran, 20, received a 24-year prison sentence Monday in Malheur County Circuit Court in the wake of the stabbing death of Jonah Noel Reyes. The incident occurred March 1 just outside the Burnt River dispensary in Ontario.

Positions include CDL Driver, English Instructor, Behavioral Health

As local retailers have suffered economic fallout from Covid, a strong holiday performance has become even more important. Here's how some plan to make the best of the season.

Estate of Mary Lou Feasel

Gov. Kate Brown's two-week "pause" leaves some Malheur County business owners worried about the future. The "pause" was issued to try to cut down on the number of Covid cases across Oregon.

WATCHDOG: Malheur County bought farmland outside Nyssa with the hope of putting up an industrial park. The county was hoping the federal government would come up with the $15 million needed to make that happen. But the county's application was thin on information needed, according to an analysis by the Enterprise

Eligible area business have until 3 p.m. Tuesday to seek the money from Biz Oregon, the state's economic development agency. This round is for medium-sized firms that have received at least $100,000 in earlier federal aid - a qualification that will leave out smaller businesses.

After a resignation at the elementary and middle school, Adrian School District Superintendent Kevin Purnell will become principal there and former teacher and football coach Bill Wortman will become principal at the high school.

Southwest District Health encouraged residents in six counties - including four that adjoin Malheur County - to adopt stronger Covid protocols. The announcement was made Friday, Nov. 20.

Forced online this year because of the Covid epidemic, local residents can still contribute to charity organizations through the annual Festival of Trees event. Those who want to help and buy a Christmas tree or wreath, can go online to the Festival of Trees Facebook page beginning Friday morning.

Elected officials who represent largely rural areas of the state laid out their concerns in the three-page document penned Nov. 18. Lawmakers proposed four areas for review, including keeping bars and restaurants open. The Malheur County Court also endorsed the letter.

Commerical Tire will set up shop on a two-acre lot on the east side of Ontario. Construction of the new facility will begin later this year.

Calvin Van Haueter, Victor Ramirez, Bill Ralph Lambeth Sr., Charles Edward Packer, Mary Suemiko Mizuta, Ron Martin, Brandon Bruzewski, Betty S. Newell, Larry Galloway, Charles Leonard Williams, Roger Williams

Positions CDL Driver, Physical Education Teacher, City Manager

Our View: Malheur County can survive the Covid threat if everyone takes it seriously and does their part. There's too much at risk to do otherwise.

Custody Hunt VS Cline, Preliminary Determination for Transfer Application, Estate of Mary Lou Feasel

While some limited jury trials are back on in Malheur County, more than six months of little legal activity pushed cases back and created an array of challenges for judges, attorneys and court staff.

A statewide "pause" on dining and going to the gym started Wednesday, and restaurants and bars across Malheur County can for now only provide takeout. Private social events now are restricted to no more than six people, though police say they aren't planning to cite violators.

Vale businessman John Nalivka believes Pioneer Place skilled nursing and assisted living and rehabilitation center is a priority for the community and he said the outcome of the Nov. 3 election shows voters agree.

Doctors from the area's largest medical operations on Tuesday said the cases of the coronavirus are clogging their systems - and it's expected to worsen. They pleaded with the public to trust warnings from the medical profession and act to stop more infections.

State Sen. Lynn Findley and state Rep. Mark Owens think the state is imposing the wrong limits on local businesses. They want the virus contained and think it's up to people, not business, to act.