Good morning, McMinnville.

Defense attorneys for a 70-year-old Newberg man accused of strangling his wife suggested a witness who killed himself on the eve of the trial may have been the true killer—investigators said Debbie Atrops’ body was found dumped in the trunk of her car in Beaverton on December 1.

The McMinnville School District fired superintendent Debbie Brockett midyear after five of seven board members voted to end her contract this week and she signed an agreement not to pursue legal action while on medical leave.

Brockett will be paid through June and her firing comes amid concerns over staff turnover and academic recovery after the pandemic — board members said the decision was made for the best interest of students and staff.

On Tuesday, the Oregon House passed a bill that requires public schools to develop temporary plans for students who suffer concussions or brain injuries.

The legislation draws on input from the Oregon Health Authority, educators and medical professionals and outlines assessments to limit physical activity and provide academic, behavioral and social-emotional support.

Oregon lawmakers advanced a bill on Wednesday to limit annual rent increases to 6% for manufactured home parks and marinas with more than 30 spaces — smaller parks remain under the current law.

Critics say stricter controls may discourage housing development, and the bill now moves to the Senate.

2025 Solid Foundations Tour

9 a.m. – 2 p.m. — McMinnville Art Alley — $ — Explore six stunning historic properties while supporting Yamhill County CASA, a cause dedicated to vulnerable children.

Sparkling Easter Brunch

11 AM – 3 PM — Domaine Willamette — Cost info not provided — Indulge in a delightful Easter brunch featuring exquisite Brut and Brut Rose.

World Tai Chi and Qigong Day Demo & Lesson

10-11 a.m. — McMinnville Grange — Free entry — Celebrate World Tai Chi and Qigong Day with a demonstration followed by a beginner's lesson in gentle movements.

A Roaring Night of Giving

5-9 p.m. — McMinnville Community Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a glamorous evening with dinner, dancing, and auctions at this '20s themed charity gala.

Mother's Day Gourmet Brunch

11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. — Abbey Road Farm — Cost info not provided — Indulge in a luxurious five-course brunch crafted by Chef Will Preisch to celebrate Mother's Day.

UFO Festival

Various times — McMenamins Pub at Hotel Oregon — Check website for details — Celebrate 25 years of UFO fascination with talks, parades, and alien costumes in McMinnville.

UFO Glow Experience - Galactic Blacklight Party

7-11 p.m. — Breathe Easy Speakteasy — $15 presale ($20 at the door) — Celebrate McMinnville's cosmic history with a blacklight dance party featuring live music and glow-in-the-dark vibes.