There is a need for more people to become officials for high school and youth sports in the region.  Phil Hukari of the Mid-Columbia Football Officials Association says the number of officials is down in all sports both in the local area and across the nation.  Hukari has been official in various sports for a long time, saying it is a rewarding way to remain involved in the game.  Those interested in becoming prep sports officials can go to the Oregon Athletic Officials Association website at oreofficials.org to learn more, and get contact information for Mid-Columbia associations in each sport.