Last week was a tough week for the Wallowa County community, with the sudden passing of Marcus McDowell, an Oregon State Police sergeant who, from everyone we have spoken to for an additional story coming this week, was much beloved. Losses leave a hole that cannot be filled and often take years to heal from.

Bill Bradshaw last week did a great job of localizing the national crisis with rising fuel prices (and the impact beyond just the dollar figure at the pump). We also have online from regional reporter Alex Wittwer a look at how the snowpack is already dwindling, and what that could mean for the water year. 

Look this week for more from the sports scene, the business scene, two local sixth graders who won the Daughters of the American Revolution essay contest, and much more.