We finish up 2022, The Observer newsroom has had the opportunity to look back on what a year this has been for Union County as we put together our annual Year-in-Review section. The section is tucked inside the Saturday, Dec. 31, issue. Be sure to check it out.

The last week of the year brought an announcement from Oregon Congressman Cliff Bentz, R-Ontario, that he has nominated Ava Palmer for acceptance into four United States service academies — the United States Naval Academy, the United States Air Force Academy, the United States Military Academy and the United States Merchant Marine Academy.

The La Grande High School senior is one of only 15 students in Oregon nominated by Bentz for service academy appointments in Oregon’s Second Congressional District and the only student from the Union, Wallowa and Baker county area. Palmer is among just five students nominated for multiple academies and the only one nominated for as many as four.

Reporter Dick Mason delivered a story about the Christmas Day luncheon served by Community Kindness of Eastern Oregon. The events, which was meant to boost the spirits of those finding themselves alone on Christmas such as the homeless, elderly and those without family in the area, drew at least 150 people.

And sometime during the first week of the new year, reporter Isabella Crowley will have a story about Union County Chamber of Commerce Director Scott Newman reflecting on his first year on the job away.

Here’s hoping that 2023 brings more than your share of good news to your household. And, once again — and as always — I want to take this opportunity to thank the subscribers of The Observer for their support. We can’t do our work without you.