Pacific City Sun, March 22, 2024

Tillamook PUD is accepting applications now for the 2024 Electrical Lineworker Program Scholarship.

Two scholarship opportunities are available for Tillamook County students graduating high school in 2024.

For more information and to apply, visit www.tpud.org/news-community/electricalline-worker-program-scholarship/ or stop by the Tillamook PUD office. Applications are due on or before 5:30 p.m. on Monday, April 22, 2024.

Nestucca Valley Lions to put on annual Easter Egg Hunt at Nestucca Valley K-8 School on March 30

on over

Nestucca

School on Saturday, March 30 for a morning filled with candyfilled eggs,

opportunities with the Easter Bunny and an encounter with local firefighters.

In what has become a longstanding tradition, the event’s main focus will be an 11 a.m. egg hunt, held this year on the soccer field at the school. But organizers say those on the hunt for the treasures that await better not be late as the search for an estimated 1,200 eggs is expected to start on time. And, if past years are any indication, the field is expected to be cleaned of the candy, coins and merchant coupons that will fill the eggs within 15 minutes.

Open to children in preschool through the 4th grade, the event will get started at 10:30 a.m. when families are encouraged to arrive with camera at the ready for

photos with the Easter Bunny. There will also be a chance to visit with staff and volunteers from the Nestucca Rural Fire Protection District and check out one of their engines. And the youngsters can also imagine what it would be like to be a real firefighter by using one of the district’s fire hoses to put out a “mock” (painted) fire on a plywood house.

Once that opening act concludes, it will be time for the children to line up for the hunt for treat-filled eggs. Volunteers will divide the field in half, with kids ages 1-5 on one side and youth 6-10 on the other. Parents may assist the younger set.

Participating children will also be treated with a special gift bag provided by the Lions.

The Lions Club will also host a table where community members can find out about membership and its many activities such as its Sight and Hearing Program.

For more information about the event, contact the Nestucca Valley Lions Club at nestuccavalleylions@gmail.com.

An opportunity to create a journal that reflects your individual style and preferences awaits as Kiawanda Community Center is inviting the community to participate in its upcoming Handmade Journal Class on March 30, from 1-3 p.m. The class will be held at the center which is located at 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City, “Get ready for an afternoon filled with creativity and fun,” says Amanda Graves, events coordinator at KCC. “Our Handmade Journal Class is not just an artistic endeavor;

it’s a chance to craft your very own leatherbound personal piece to use every day.”

KCC is billing the hands-on class as a chance to unleash your creativity as you learn the art of crafting a personalized leather-bound journal with handmade paper. The cost is $20, with materials included. Early registration is advised as space is limited. To signup, email kdhanson64@ gmail.com.

For more information, contact Amanda Graves at events@kiawanda.com.

Photo by Tim Hirsch

NESTUCCA VALLEY LIONS CLUB is sponsoring an Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 31.

Photo by Tim Hirsch

IN LATE AUGUST, OSU’s Jack Barth and his colleagues deployed a glider that traversed Oregon’s near-shore waters from Astoria to Coos Bay and measured the oxygen levels through the water

and beamed the data back to OSU computers.

Hypoxia is widespread and increasing in the ocean off the Pacific Northwest coast

By MICHELLE KLAMPE Oregon State University

Lwarms, a new study shows.

Researchers found that in 2021, more than half the continental shelf off the Pacific Northwest coast experienced the low-oxygen condition known as hypoxia, said the study’s lead author, Jack Barth of Oregon State University.

“We’ve known that low oxygen conditions are increasing based on single points of study in the past, but this confirms that these conditions are occurring across Pacific Northwest coastal waters,” said Barth, an oceanography professor in the College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences.

“The 2021 season was unusually strong compared to past years but with climate change, we are headed in a direction where this may be the norm.”

The new study, published recently in Nature Scientific Reports, is based on data collected by an unprecedented number of research vessels and autonomous underwater gliders that were collecting measurements in the ocean during summer 2021.

The vast amount of data reportedly gave researchers a more complete and nuanced understanding of hypoxia’s severity and spatial distribution in the coastal waters of the northern California Current, said Barth, who also serves as special advisor to OSU’s Marine and Coastal Opportunities program

“This picture has been needed for a long time by policymakers and fisheries managers who make decisions about ocean uses,” he said.

On average, nearly half of the continental shelf, an area the same size as Oregon’s Willamette Valley and slightly smaller than the state of Connecticut, experienced hypoxia during the summer upwelling period in 2021.

Wind-driven upwelling brings deeper, colder, nutrient rich water to the surface of the ocean, fueling a productive upperocean food web. However, that same upwelling pushes deep, low-oxygen water near the ocean’s bottom toward the coast. Dissolved oxygen levels are driven even lower near the seafloor by decay of naturally occurring phytoplankton raining down from above. When oxygen levels drop significantly, many marine organisms, including economically and culturally important Dungeness crabs, cannot relocate quickly enough and die of oxygen starvation.

Some areas of the coastal ocean saw higher rates of hypoxia than others, the data

showed. Areas of the southern Oregon coast experiencing less hypoxia, for example. Heceta Bank, a region about 35 miles off Florence that is known for its abundant and diverse marine life, also is more resilient to hypoxic conditions. However, the region inshore of Heceta Bank toward Cape Perpetua, where coastal waters are not as well flushed, is subject to hypoxia.

Mapping the varied rates of hypoxia along the coast also confirmed for scientists the interplay between the geography of the sea floor and ocean dynamics, Barth noted.

“I was amazed when I saw the maps,” he said. “It really corroborates our understanding of how underwater geography affects hypoxia.”

A comparison of maps from past years shows a consistent trend of hypoxia increasing over time. Hypoxia was basically nonexistent, at 2 percent, from 1950 to 1980, about 24 percent from 2009 to 2018, and 56 percent in 2021. That trend persists even when researchers account for year-to-year variability, Barth noted. Researchers are now developing maps for 2022 and 2023 using the 2021 maps as a guide.

The findings provide policymakers and fisheries managers additional decisionmaking tools as ocean conditions continue to change, Barth said.

“On land, we know where the grassland is, where the forests are, where the rivers run so we can sustainably use those resources. If we don’t have that kind of understanding of the ocean, how do we make plans for sustainable use of the ocean?” he said. “When we think about all the different uses of the ocean, from fisheries to marine reserves, and impacts such as heat waves and renewable energy development, we can manage all of those things better if we understand the environmental situation.”

The study also highlights the need for regular monitoring and mapping of hypoxia along the Pacific Northwest coast as conditions continue to change, Barth said.

“This effort is a demonstration of what we’re capable of doing if we coordinate our efforts,” he said. “Now that we have done this once and understand some of the key geographic features, we can target our sampling to best monitor these areas over time.”

Co-authors of the paper are Stephen Pierce and Anatoli Erofeev of OSU’s College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences; Francis Chan and Cheryl Morgan of OSU’s Cooperative Institute for Marine Ecosystem and Resources Studies; Brendan Carter and Richard Feely of NOAA’s Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory; Jennifer Fisher, Kym Jacobson, Aimee Keller and Victor Simon of NOAA’s Northwest Fisheries Science Center; and Leif Rasmuson of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Chamber to host Spring Candidates’ Forum on April 2

It’ll be a full election ballot this spring when a number of candidates will vie for key positions at the May primary and, to that end, Pacific City-Nestucca Valley of Chamber of Commerce wants the voting public to be well informed. To facilitate this, they will host a Spring Candidates’ Forum, Tuesday, April 2, noon-2 p.m., at Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. The public is also invited to come a half hour early at 11:30 a.m. when the candidates will be given time to engage voters in informal conversation.

Past Chamber political forums have drawn up to 100 people.

The two-hour event will feature candidates for the two open positions on the Tillamook County Board of Commissioners, as well as races for Oregon House District 32, Tillamook County Assessor and Justice of the Peace.

Two additional races — Tillamook County Clerk and Tillamook County Sheriff — will not appear on the May ballot as there are is only one candidate filed for each of these positions. Still, the Chamber is inviting those candidates, too.

Competing for County Commissioner Position #1 (4-year term) are incumbent Erin Skaar and challengers Jeff Spink and Bruce Lovelin; running for County Commissioner Position #2 (4-year term) are Paul Fournier and Darcy Jones (interim Commissioner Doug Olson is not running); vying for Tax Assessor (4-year term) are KaSandra Larson and Kari Fleisher; and on the ballot unopposed is Ryan C. Connell for Justice of

the Peace (6-year term), Joshua Brown for County Sheriff (4-year term) and Christy Nyseth for County Clerk (4-year term).

In the race for Oregon State Representative, District 32, voters will decide amongst incumbent Cyrus B. Javadi (Rep.), and challengers Glenn Gaither (Rep.) and Logan C. Laity (Dem.).

Skaar has 27 years of nonprofit professional program management and worked for CARE from 2004 to 2020. She has served as county commissioner since 2021.

Spink currently works as general sales manager for Tillamook Motor Co. Previously, he served as director/president of Oregon Coast Communication, Inc., (DBA Oregon Coast Guide) and served for 10 years on the Marion County Sheriff Reserve.

Lovelin is the owner of Happy Camp Hideaway. His prior experience includes positions as chief engineer for Central Lincoln PUD, engineering manager for Tillamook PUD, executive director of Northwest Irrigation Utilities, and district engineer for Bonneville Power Administration.

Fournier is a retired deputy, business owner, and part-time sheriff’s deputy.

Jones is the owner of Jones Excavating and has been a contractor since 1992. His additional experience includes 16 years serving on local school boards — first at Hebo School District and later at Nestucca Valley School District (after consolidation).

Larson is currently the county’s Chief Deputy Assessor and Tax Collector. She

previously served as the county’s property appraiser, sales data analyst, and lead residential appraiser. In total she has worked for 21 years in the Tillamook County Assessment & Taxation office. She has also served as both vice president and District 2 Chair of the Oregon Association of County Tax Collectors.

Fleisher currently serves as property appraiser for the county, a role she first had as a trainee in 2004, before being promoted to level 1 and 2 and her current rank of 3 in 2008. Her prior government experience includes serving as Zone 3 Director for Neah-Kah-Nie School District (2019-present) and as a member at large for the Tillamook County Housing Commission (December 2018-present).

As of press time, candidates who had confirmed their intention to attend were: Skaar, Spink, Lovelin, Fournier, Larson, Fleisher, Brown, Gaither, Javadi, and Laity.

The forum’s format will give each candidate 5-7 minutes to offer introductory remarks, and share with the public his or her reasons for running for office. The Chamber says there will also be sufficient time for the audience to ask questions of the candidates. Questions may be asked to a specific candidate, but all running for that office will have an opportunity to respond as well.

“There’s some new faces and others seeking reelection,” organizer Doug Olson told the Sun. “Some are key positions. I hope (attendees) will get to know the people running for public office a bit better than they do now.”

TCVA honors local community members at its annual awards banquet

The Tillamook Coast Visitors Association recently recognized eight organizations and individuals for their contributions to the Tillamook Coast community. TCVA says this year’s recipients exemplify excellence across various fields, from cultural heritage preservation to business development and stewardship.

The 2024 award recipients are:

Excellence in Public Works: Chris Laity, Director of Tillamook County Public Works, was honored for his dedicated work in bringing the Cape Meares Loop Road to what TCVA described as a remarkable finish. It took 10 years to complete the project, but TCVA now says it is now one of the most beautiful roads on the Oregon Coast.

Excellence in Cultural Heritage: The Nehalem Valley Historical Society was honored for what TCVA said were extraordinary efforts in preserving and showcasing the region’s rich history, particularly during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Led by Tom Campbell, the society’s dedication to digital preservation and community engagement is being hailed as a way to ensure that the legacy of Tillamook County endures for generations to come.

Excellence in Hospitality: Wanda’s Café, owned by Frank Squillo and Patrick Conner,

received recognition for its hospitality that goes beyond serving meals. TCVA says their warm and welcoming atmosphere, coupled with genuine care for their patrons and community involvement, has made Wanda’s Café a beloved gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

Excellence in Stewardship: Heart of Cartm, under the leadership of Jessi Just, was acknowledged for its innovative approach to sustainability and environmental stewardship. TCVA notes that through creative initiatives like Repair Cafes and the Trash Bash, Heart of Cartm is transforming the community’s mindset towards reusing and repurposing, ultimately reducing waste and preserving precious resources.

Excellence in Trails and Outdoor Recreation: John and Connie Kelly, caretakers of Kilchis Point Reserve, were honored for their dedication to maintaining and beautifying this outdoor space. TCVA said their commitment ensures that visitors can continue to enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of Kilchis Point, enhancing the well-being of all who wander its trails.

Excellence in Tourism Development: The Tillamook Creamery Visitors Center tour guides, represented by Deanna Hirt, were recognized for their contributions to sharing the story of Tillamook cheese with the world.

TCVA said their enthusiasm, knowledge, and engaging tours have made the Creamery Visitors Center a must-visit destination, showcasing the region’s rich agricultural heritage.

Excellence in Business Development: Linsey and Trevor Rogers, founders of de Garde Brewing, were celebrated for their entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to crafting exceptional, locally-made beer and wine. Their dedication has not only garnered international acclaim but has also reportedly bolstered tourism and economic growth in Tillamook County.

Excellence in Destination Management: The City of Rockaway Beach was commended for its visionary approach to destination management. From enhancing natural attractions to revitalizing downtown spaces, TCVA says Rockaway Beach exemplifies a community dedicated to sustainable tourism and quality of life for residents and visitors alike. City Manager Luke Shepherd, City Council president Penny Cheek and Councilor Mary McGinnis accepted the award on behalf of the city.

“We were thrilled to honor these outstanding individuals and organizations for their invaluable contributions to the Tillamook Coast community,” says Nan Devlin, exective director of TCVA.

A Thrifty Enterprise

South Tillamook County Library Thrift Store’s recently renovated retail space has been met with rave reviews

By TIM HIRSCH of the Sun

With a fresh renovation only a month in the rear view mirror, the South Tillamook County Thrift Store is basking in the compliments of its fresh look, appreciative of its upgrades and looking forward to serving the community — residents and visitors alike.

Open Thursday through Saturday, 11 a.m.4 p.m., at 6330 Ferry St., Pacific City, the store features 900 square feet of retail space that is now freshened up with not only a fresh coat of paint but also new floors thanks to Ken Martin’s Carpet Co. in Lincoln City. It also features a more open layout.

“We tried to stay local,” said store manager Joann Kinder about using the longtime Lincoln City company. “We did all the painting ourselves.”

A grand opening for the remodeled store was held on Feb. 29, which according to Kinder, received rave reviews.

“It was wonderful,” she recalled. “People came in and said, ‘What did you do?’ It’s so open. They liked the idea of being to walk in and be able to see everything.”

While the store has an abundance of clothing, other popular sale items include glassware and dishes.

“(We have) a lot of clothes, but we (also sell) a lot of giftware and dishes,” Kinder said. “Dishes are real popular (as) people (visiting) vacation rentals (sometime) break a wine glass (and then) come in here and try to replace it before they leave.”

As the biggest element helping fund the operation of the South Tillamook County Library’s maintenance costs, the thrift store is crucial to keeping the doors open at Pacific City’s library. While in past years,

it has employed staff to run the thrift store, it is now an all-volunteer operation led by Kinder. And that has enabled it to be on a more solid financial footing. Last year, it brought in an estimated $60,000 in sales with approximately $42,000 going towards maintenance for both the library building and the thrift store. The surplus, too, is important as it is used for deferred maintenance items like the renovation that was completed earlier this year.

While things are looking up, that doesn’t mean more help wouldn’t come in handy. If enough volunteer, the thrift store may even be able to open an extra day or two as it did when there was a paid staff.

“They’d really enjoy it if they came and just tried (volunteering) because the people in Pacific City are very, very nice,” Kinder told the Sun. “They’re friendly. They support our store. We get (people) clear from Salem and Newport to bring donations.”

She added that she knows from personal experience how rewarding it is.

“I started volunteering, and I really like it,” she said. “It’s only one day a week and people that come in are really, really super. I’m learning a lot about Pacific City and really enjoy it.”

With 40 years of retail experience to her name, she said she hopes to continue to improve the store’s offerings. One feature that will be brought back is plant sales, which were a hit last year.

“We’re (also) talking about trying to get involved more with Dory Days and Clover’s Day,” she said.

For more information about South Tillamook County Thrift Store, which is now accepting donations of good, clean, sellable items Thursday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., call 503-965-7013.

SOUTH TILLAMOOK COUNTY LIBRARY THRIFT SHOP manager Joann Kinder says she is delighted with the community’s response to its recent renovation.

Photo by Tim Hirsch

PICTURED ABOVE are South Tillamook County Library Club Board of Directors (l-r) Teresa Smith, Thrina Parent, Barb Moore, Patty Mancuso, David Cooper, Joann Kinder, and Melanie Merryman. (Not pictured is Julian Ansell.)

By TIM HIRSCH of the Sun

Like many local nonprofits, the South Tillamook County Library Club’s Board of Directors is a board that works — and works hard to make this community just a little bit better.

Amongst their recent accomplishments have been to help guide the South Tillamook County Library Thrift Store’s recent renovation (see related story, page 6), and now they’re hoping to outline a path to an even better future.

“The library is a fantastic resource for the town,” said Board President David Cooper, who was elected to the post last December. “What I’m really trying to get us to look at is what does a library need to be five, 10 years from now. We’re on a very good financial foot, but I want to make sure that we have all the t’s crossed and the i’s dotted and that our future is clear sailing financially.”

He also said it would be helpful if the club could attract a bigger volunteer base.

“One of the challenges is getting

people interested,” added treasurer Barb Moore. “We need some people with some business, insurance, other kinds of backgrounds and skills to help us take care of (the library) building.”

Board members say that the Thrift Store contributes the majority of the funds needed to keep the doors open, but there are other important elements such as the annual Farmer’s Market held on Sundays during the summer.

“The main thing is the thrift (store),” said past president Thrina Parent.

“Besides donations, (it) supports everything. (It) supports the maintenance, the operation (of) both of the buildings, the grounds, the buildings themselves. Without the Thrift Shop, this building wouldn’t exist. It wouldn’t be operating.”

“If we didn’t have the thrift (store), it would be constant fundraisers. And, it’s very, very difficult. It takes a lot of energy, it takes a lot of hands on (to do fundraisers),” added publicity director and director-at-large Teresa Smith.

For more information on the South Tillamook County Library Club, email Teresa Smith at pctyee@centurylink.net.

Photo by Tim Hirsch

A Sensitive Habitat

Beachgoers reminded to respect nesting areas to protect threatened Snowy Plover

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department and Siuslaw National Forest are reminding visitors that it is plover nesting season on the Oregon coast March 15 to Sept. 15 — visitors can help recovery efforts for the threatened western snowy plover by observing recreation restrictions in designated plover areas.

Sensitive plover nesting areas — such as the one that borders Sitka Sedge State Natural Area near Tierra Del Mar — will be roped off or identified by signs with rules and limits, such as staying on the wet sand, to help protect the small shorebirds and their exposed nests during this crucial period. Recreation restrictions occur in designated plover management areas: stretches of beach along the coastline where plovers nest or might nest. These areas combined make up about 40 miles of Oregon’s 362 miles of shoreline.

Officials say seasonal recreation restrictions have helped protect these small birds that nest on open sand. Nests, and especially chicks, are well-camouflaged. They say during the nesting season, human disturbances can flush adult plovers away from their nests as they attempt to defend their young. Left alone too long, or too often, eggs or chicks can die from exposure, predators or people.

At designated plover beaches, from March 15-Sept. 15, the following are not permitted: dogs (even on a leash), driving a vehicle, riding a bicycle, camping, burning wood, flying kites or operating drones. As well, foot and equestrian traffic is permitted only below the high-tide line on wet, packed sand, and beachgoers are asked to respect signs and barriers to protect nesting habitat.

“We’re making great strides in reversing the decline of this species,” said Cindy Burns, Siuslaw National Forest wildlife biologist. “But it takes all of us, so we urge people to do their part to understand nesting season rules and to share the beach this spring and summer.”

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service listed western snowy plovers as a threatened species in 1993, when officials counted only 45 breeding adults. The numbers of breeding adults have steadily increased since then due to ongoing efforts. Officials counted 433 during the breeding season survey in 2023.

“We appreciate visitors’ support in keeping these shorebirds safe in the combined 40 miles of protected area

along the coast. We invite visitors to enjoy permitted recreation in those areas or to recreate without seasonal restrictions on the hundreds of miles of beaches not designated as plover nesting areas,” said Laurel Hillmann, ocean shore specialist for Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

More information on the snowy plover, including detailed maps of nesting sites, can be found on the Oregon State Parks website (oregon.gov/plovers) and on the Siuslaw National Forest website (https://t. ly/AKPAN). Visitors to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area can review Offhighway Vehicle (OHV) maps at https:// www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/siuslaw/recreation/ recarea/?recid=42465&actid=93 to identify unrestricted recreation areas and information on riding motor vehicles on the sand.

The increase in plover numbers may result in nesting occurring in new or historical nesting sites. For example, visitors to Sand Lake Recreation Area may see small roped off areas near the lake’s inlet to protect active nests, and may encounter plovers on the beach. Beachgoers are encouraged to protect these birds by restricting recreation activities to wet sand areas, avoiding roped off nesting areas, packing all trash out and keeping dogs on leash.

Several land managers oversee beach activity for plover protection, primarily the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD).

Habitat loss from invasive plants — as well as human disturbances, including litter and discarded food scraps that attract predators — have reportedly contributed to the birds’ decline. The Oregon Dunes Restoration Collaborative, saveoregondunes. org, is working with land managers on a restoration strategy and to raise public awareness about the need to restore the dunes ecosystem for western snowy plovers, rare plants and animals and the unique recreation opportunities offered here.

Central Coast opens for razor clam harvesting

The Oregon Department of Agriculture and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife recently announced that razor clam harvesting has opened from Cascade Head (north of Lincoln City) to Seal Rock (north of Waldport). The opening was made possible by the discovery that levels of the marine biotoxin domoic acid have fallen below the closure limit. Razor clam harvesting remains closed for high levels of the marine biotoxin domoic acid from Cape Blanco (north of Port Orford) to the California border.

Razor clam harvesting is now open from the Washington border to Cape Blanco. Crab, mussel and bay clam harvesting

How do you say goodbye to the man you have loved for 53-plus years?

Robert Miller Jr. was born in Seattle, Washington, November 3, 1944 and passed away on Nov. 27, 2023. He was the first child of his parents and named after his father, Robert Leo Miller. He preferred his nick name, Bud Miller. He married his soul mate Jeanette in 1967 and so his family increased. His surviving family are his wife, a brother, and two sisters.

Bud always knew he wanted to be a forester and so he graduated from Colorado State University, and immediately went to work at White Swan, Washington as a forester for the Bureau of Indian Affairs. This job was interrupted by a stint in the Army during the Vietnam War. He came home August 1, 1974, to

start his life journey and retired July 1, 2000.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Robert, please visit https:// tree-tc.tributestore.com/memorialtree?oId=30986255&source=tco_ descriptionundefined.

are open along the entire Oregon coast. Oregon Department of Agriculture will continue to test for shellfish toxins twice per month, as tides and weather permit. Reopening an area closed for biotoxins requires two consecutive tests with results below the closure limit. For recreational license requirements, permits, rules and limits, contact Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. For more information, call Oregon Department of Agriculture’s shellfish biotoxin safety hotline at 800-4482474, the Food Safety Division at 503986-4720, or visit https://www.oregon.gov/ ODA/programs/FoodSafety/Shellfish/Pages/ ShellfishClosures.aspx.

www.pacificcoastcandy.com

34950

PCJWSA currently has a job opening for the position of Operator-in-Training. The successful applicant will become part of a team providing water and wastewater services to residents of Pacific City/Woods, Oregon.

This is a full-time, hourly position with a monthly salary range of $3,293 - $4,167 DOE plus excellent benefits. Application forms and additional information about benefits, job duties, and minimum qualifications for this position are available online at www.pcjwsa.com. Send completed application and resume to PCJWSA, PO Box 520, Pacific City, OR 97135 or email to rdeloe@pcjwsa.com. Position open until filled. PCJWSA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

THE SNOWY PLOVER, a threatened species, will be in their nesting season March 15 through Sept. 15 and visitors are asked to respect roped off nesting areas.

Robert

Photo courtesy of OPRD

FRIDAY GAME NIGHT

March 22, 2-7 p.m. PC-Pour Wine Bar, 33310 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Use PC Pour’s board games or bring your own. Must be 21 or over. RSVP at PC-Pour.com.

CANDLE MAKING WORKSHOP

March 22, 5-6:30 p.m. PC-Pour Wine Bar, 33310 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Create 2 of your own personalized candles. $40 fee includes instruction, supplies and first beverage. RSVP at PC-Pour.com.

SPRING CLEANING SALE

March 23, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. For more information, visit kiawanda.com or call 503965-7900.

UKULELE JAM

March 23. Tillamook County Library, 1716 3rd St., Tillamook. 1 p.m. beginners lessons. 1:30-2:30 p.m. Jam. Bring your own instrument or borrow from the library. For more information, visit tillabook.org or call 503-842-4792.

EASTER COOKIES WORKSHOP

March 23, 2-3:30 p.m. PC-Pour Wine Bar, 33310 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Create 6 of your own personally decorated Easter Cookies. $40 fee includes instruction, supplies and first beverage. RSVP at PC-Pour.com.

BROWNSMEAD FLATS CONCERT

March 23, 3 p.m. Tillamook County Library, 1716 3rd St., Tillamook. Acoustic band will play traditional and original Crabgrass music (bluegrass with maritime flavor.) For more information, visit tillabook.org or call 503-842-4792.

PICTIONARY

March 23, 5-6:30 p.m. PC-Pour Wine Bar, 33310 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Play Pictionary with others - free. Must be 21 or over. RSVP at PC-Pour. com.

FESTIVAL OF ILLUSIONS

March 23, 7 p.m. Lincoln City Cultural Center, 540 NE Hwy. 101, Lincoln City. Fly Through Time with Leapin’ Louie. Tickets $9-$17; free for children 5 and under. For more information, visit lincolncityculturalcenter.com or call 541-994-9994.

LINE DANCING CLASS

March 23, 7 p.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Classes begin with a lesson then dancing. $10 fee. For more information, contact Kris Rooke, 425-894-4111.

SPRING WHALE WATCH WEEK

March 23-31. Watch gray whales migrating back north after wintering in the south. Ideal spotting areas in South County at Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area and Cape Lookout State Park. For more information, visit ORWhaleWatch.org.

FIDDLESTICKS GAME DAY

March 24, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Cohosted by Fiddlesticks and KCC. Free board game playing. Laser tag available from 1-2:30 p.m. - cost $10. For more information, visit kiawanda.com.

TILE MAKING CLASS

March 24, 1-3:30 p.m. Burkhardt Gallery, 34394 Hwy. 101 S., Hebo. Create two personalized clay tiles. $75 fee. For more information, or to register, email burkhardtmab@gmail.com or call 503-8129866.

SOUND BOWL SUNDAY

March 24, 6:30 p.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. For more information, visit kiawanda.com.

FESTIVAL OF ILLUSIONS

March 24, 7 p.m. Lincoln City Cultural Center, 540 NE Hwy. 101, Lincoln City. Lucky Luke Hammer & Son. Tickets $9-$17; free for children 5 and under. For more information, visit lincolncity-culturalcenter.com or call 541-994-9994.

FESTIVAL OF ILLUSIONS

March 25, 10 a.m.-noon. Lincoln City Cultural Center, 540 NE Hwy. 101, Lincoln City. Boredom Busting Balloon workshop. Tickets $15. For more information, visit lincolncity-culturalcenter.com or call 541-994-9994.

PACIFIC CITY WALKING WONDERS

March 25, 27 & 29, 10 a.m. Meet at Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda

City. For more information, visit https://tillamookcountywellness.org/move-well/walking-groups/ or contact coordinator Kathy at katystar7@hotmail. com or 503-801-7448 (text).

FESTIVAL OF ILLUSIONS

March 25, 7 p.m. Lincoln City Cultural Center, 540 NE Hwy. 101, Lincoln City. Commander Salamander Super Circus Side Show. Tickets $17. For more information, visit lincolncity-culturalcenter.com or call 541-994-9994.

STITCHERS QUILTING GROUP

March 26, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Community of people who make things for others - all levels welcome. $6 admission. For more information, email scnutting@gmail.com or call 503-8010702.

FESTIVAL OF ILLUSIONS

March 26, 7 p.m. Lincoln City Cultural Center, 540 NE Hwy. 101, Lincoln City. Ventriloquist Michael Harrison presents “Ventastic.” Tickets $17. For more information, visit lincolncity-culturalcenter.com or call 541-994-9994.

TILLAMOOK COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING

March 27, 9 a.m. Tillamook County Courthouse, 201 Laurel Ave., Room 106. Also available via teleconference live video at tctvonline.com or teleconference at #971-254-3149, conference ID: 736-023-979 (listen only). For agenda, visit co.tillamook.or.us/bocc.

SOUTH TILLAMOOK COUNTY

LIBRARY STORYTIME

March 27, 3:30 p.m. South Tillamook County Library, 6200 Camp St., Pacific City. Co-hosted by David and Theresa. All ages invited. For more information, call 503-965-6163.

PACIFIC CITY YOUTH KARATE

March 27, 4 p.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Life skills and beginner martial arts. $25 sign-up fee; $50 per month. For more information, call 971-910-1188.

FESTIVAL OF ILLUSIONS

March 27, 7 p.m. Lincoln City Cultural Center, 540 NE Hwy. 101, Lincoln City. Mz. Pearl’s Variety Circus. Tickets $17. For more information, visit lincolncityculturalcenter.com or call 541-994-9994.

BEACHCOMBING EXPLORIENCE

March 28, 8 a.m. Meet at SW 33rd St. beach entrance, Lincoln City. Hunt for gemstones, agates, petrified wood and more with local expert. Free and no registration required. For more information, visit ExploreLincolnCity.com or call 541-9961274.

MOMMY & ME

March 28, 8:30-10 a.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Free event hosted by Fiddlesticks Toys. For more information, call 971-533-6545.

TAI CHI March 28, 10:30 a.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Volun-

teer led for all ages and levels. For more information, call 503-510-0588.

SIP & SHOP

March 28, 5-7 p.m. Lucky Beach Boutique, 34950 Brooten Rd., Pacific City. Featuring dessert plus wine from Twist Wine Co. For more information, call 301-904-7217.

FESTIVAL OF ILLUSIONS

March 28, 7 p.m. Lincoln City Cultural Center, 540

NE Hwy. 101, Lincoln City. Alex Zerbe the Zaniac. Tickets $17. For more information, visit lincolncityculturalcenter.com or call 541-994-9994.

FRIDAY GAME NIGHT

March 29, 4-7 p.m. PC-Pour Wine Bar, 33310 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Use PC Pour’s board games or bring your own. Must be 21 or over. RSVP at PC-Pour.com.

FESTIVAL OF ILLUSIONS

March 29, 7 p.m. Lincoln City Cultural Center, 540 NE Hwy. 101, Lincoln City. Taylor Kyle, The American Mystifier. Tickets $17. For more information, visit lincolncity-culturalcenter.com or call 541-9949994.

HUNT IN THE. HANGAR

March 30, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tillamook Air Museum, 6030 Hangar Rd., Tillamook. Scavenger hunt - free event. Easter Bunny, photos, and cookies. For more information, contact info@tillamookair.com 503-842-1130.

EASTER EGG HUNT

March 30, 10:30 a.m. Nestucca K-8 Soccer Field, 36925 Hwy. 101 S., Cloverdale. For preschool through 4th graders. Meet Easter Bunny, egg hunt, and explore a fire engine. Hunt begins at 11 a.m. sharp. Presented by Nestucca Valley Lions Club.

HANDMADE JOURNAL CLASS

March 30, 1-3 p.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Make a leather bound journal with handmade paper. Limited space - register at kdhanson64@gmail.com.

PAINT & SIP

March 30, 2-3:30 p.m. PC-Pour Wine Bar, 33310 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Watercolor painting with Natasha Ramras. $45 fee includes instruction, supplies and first beverage. RSVP at PC-Pour.com.

PYSANKY WORKSHOP

March 30, 2 p.m. Tillamook County Library, 1716 3rd St., Tillamook. Create Ukrainian Eggs. Limited space - registration required- call 503-842-4792. For more information, visit tillabook.org.

TRIVIA NIGHT

March 30, 5-6:30 p.m. PC-Pour Wine Bar, 33310 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Free admission. Must be 21 or over. Play trivia. Sign-up at PC-Pour. com.

LIVE MUSIC

March 30, 7 p.m. NCRD Performing Arts Center, 36155 9th St., Nehalem. Ellen Whyte, Gene Houck, and JP Garau. Advance tickets $23; at the door $26. For more information, visit ncrd.org.

BEACHCOMBING EXPLORIENCE

March 31, 10 a.m. Meet at SW 33rd St. beach entrance, Lincoln City. Hunt for gemstones, agates, petrified wood and more with local expert. Free and no registration required. Visit ExploreLincolnCity.com or call 541-996-1274.

PACIFIC CITY WALKING WONDERS

April 1, 3 & 5, 10 a.m. Meet at Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. For more information, visit https://tillamookcountywellness.org/move-well/walking-groups/ or contact coordinator Kathy at katystar7@hotmail. com or 503-801-7448 (text).

STITCHERS QUILTING GROUP

April 2, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Community of people who make things for others - all levels welcome. $6 admission. Email scnutting@ gmail.com or call 503-801-0702.

PACIFIC CITY-NESTUCCA VALLEY

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CANDIATE FORUM

April 2, noon. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Featuring candidates on May election ballot. Email pcnvchamber@gmail.com.

SOUTH COUNTY FOOD PANTRY

April 2, 12:30-6 p.m. Nestucca Valley Presbyterian Church, 35305 Brooten Rd., Pacific City.

TILLAMOOK COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING

April 3, 9 a.m. Tillamook County Courthouse, 201 Laurel Ave., Room 106. Also available via teleconference live video at tctvonline.com or teleconference at #971-254-3149, conference ID: 736-023-979 (listen only). For agenda, visit co.tillamook.or.us/bocc.

PACIFIC CITY YOUTH KARATE

April 3, 4 p.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Life skills and beginner martial arts. $25 sign-up fee; $50 per month. For more information, call 971-910-1188.

TAI CHI

April 4, 10:30 a.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Volunteer led for all ages and levels. For more information, call 503-510-0588.

ARTIST OPENING RECEPTION

April 5, 2 p.m. Lincoln City Cultural Center, 540 NE Hwy. 101, Lincoln City. Susan Webb Rebecchi shows original interior design fabrics. Visit lincolncity-culturalcenter.com or call 541-994-994.

SOAP MAKING CLASS

April 5, 5-6:30 p.m. PC-Pour Wine Bar, 33310 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Create your own design with Mandela rock painting tools. $35 fee includes instruction, supplies and first beverage. RSVP at PC-Pour.com.

ARTIST OF THE MONTH RECEPTION

April 5, 5-7 p.m. Bay City Arts Center, 5680 A St., Bay City. Surfboards by Henry Stanley and art by East Elementary Students. Visit baycityartscenter. com or call 503-377-9620.

PAPER SHREDDING DAY

April 6, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Tillamook County Library, 1716 3rd St., Tillamook. For regular office paper only. Visit tillabook.org or call 503-842-4792.

SPRING GARDEN FEST

April 6, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. White Clover Grange, 36585 Hwy. 53, Nehalem. Learn about low water gardening, vendors, farmer’s market items, and more. Call 503-847-2643.

MANDELA ROCK PAINTING CLASS

April 6, 2-3:30 p.m. PC-Pour Wine Bar, 33310 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Create 4 unique and personalized soaps. $35 fee includes instruction, supplies and first beverage. RSVP at PC-Pour.com.

PICTIONARY

April 6, 5-6:30 p.m. PC-Pour Wine Bar, 33310 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Play Pictionary with others - free. Must be 21 or over. RSVP at PC-Pour. com.

SWING, SWING, SPRING!

April 6, 7-9:30 p.m. Lincoln City Cultural Center, 540 NE Hwy. 101, Lincoln City. Lincoln Pops Big Band. Tickets $20. For more information, visit lincolncity-culturalcenter.com or call 541-994-9994.

Photo by Tim Hirsch

Whales spring into action

Oregon State Parks will host Spring Whale Watch Week along the Oregon Coast March 23-31

Trained Oregon State Park volunteers will be stationed at 15 sites along the Oregon Coast to help visitors spot whales and their calves and answer questions from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily March 23-31.

OPRD says the sites are some of the best places to watch for whales on the Oregon Coast. Though historically — i.e. before COVID — Cape Kiwanda was amongst the sites, that isn’t the case this year. A map of volunteer-staffed sites is available by visiting https://oregonstateparks.org/index. cfm?do=thingstodo.dsp_whaleWatching.

The spring event is three days longer than last year and officials say it might include better odds of seeing gray whales on their journey home from the calving lagoons in Mexico in light of a recent announcement from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

NOAA announced the end of an Unusual Mortality Event, a significant die-off of the gray whale population, that had affected the marine mammals since 2019.

“The latest counts indicate that the gray whale population has likely turned the corner and is beginning to recover. It’s a perfect time for people to see them as they swim north with new calves to feed,” said Michael Milstein, public affairs officer with NOAA Fisheries.

Researchers counted about 412 calves last year, which was almost double the number from the year before. That helped signal an end to the Unusual Mortality Event and a

likely turnaround in numbers as the species begins to rebound.

An estimated 14,500 gray whales are expected to swim past Oregon’s shores from late winter through June as part of their annual migration back to Alaska.

“Spring is a great time for whale watching because the gray whales are usually closer to shore on their return trip, typically around a mile or so out, and the weather can be better for viewing. But don’t forget your rain gear just in case,” said Park Ranger Peter McBride.

The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay will be open 10 a.m.- 3 p.m., March 23-31. Visitors to the center can experience interactive whale exhibits and take in the panoramic ocean views. Binoculars are provided. Rangers from Oregon State Parks will also be on hand to answer questions about the whales.

OPRD is encouraging all Whale Watch Week visitors to dress for the weather, to bring binoculars and to follow beach safety guidelines such as remaining out of fenced areas, knowing the tide schedule and keeping an eye on the surf at all times. Visit https:// visittheoregoncoast.com/beach-safety/ for a list of safety tips.

For more information about coast parks and campgrounds, visit oregonstateparks.org.

Visitors are encouraged to share their photos and videos from Spring Whale Watch Week on social media using #OregonStateParks and #ORWhaleWatch24.

SPRING WHALE WATCH WEEK takes place along the Oregon Coast March 23-31. Locally, the gray whales can be seen from Cape Kiwanda during their annual migration from Mexico to Alaska.

Photo courtesy of OPRD