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New TBCC president discusses past, programs, plans

Tillamook Bay Community College welcomed Dr. Paul Jarrell as its new president on February 9, following the retirement of longtime leader Dr. Ross Tomlin. Jarrell brings more than 30 years of educational experience to the role and said that he is excited for a forthcoming healthcare education building and to continue the college’s role as a strong partner for local businesses and the community.

“I think simply put I just really feel at home here at TBCC and I feel very fortunate that the board of education here saw something in me and trusted me to be the next leader of this institution,” Jarrell said. “I believe this about especially community colleges in small, rural towns is that they are a very big part of the community not just from the teaching perspective but for larger parts of the community, so it just felt like a good time to get back to that kind of roots.”

Jarrell was born and raised in southern Ohio and eastern Kentucky in a rural setting that he said reminded him of Tillamook in many ways.

The first to attend college in his family, Jarrell went to Ohio University for his undergraduate degree, before continuing his studies at the University of Illinois. When his adviser at Illinois moved to the University of Oregon, Jarrell decided to follow, and earned a doctorate in biology and genetics in Eugene.

For several years, Jarrell taught at the College of Southern Oregon, which has since become a university, before moving to southern California for more than two decades.

In California, Jarrell first spent more than 20 years at Pasadena City College before a brief stint at Santa Barbara City College.

Jarrell said that early in his career he found that he loved teaching and pursued a professional path in community colleges, where attention is focused on teaching rather than research, as it is at four-year institutions.

Even with a more than a decade in administration under his belt, Jarrell said that he misses the reward

Blue Heron commissions original artwork for roadside billboards

boards. Hansen had previously worked at the Blue Heron when she was a student at Tillamook High School. She also had previously painted murals at the Blue Heron, including one inside their candy shop.

“Our billboards were showing their age,” Blue Heron’s Jason Pastega said. “We really needed to have them replaced and we were able to find an artist to paint them for us.”

Julie Hansen was commissioned to paint the new bill -

“When the opportunity came up that we need some murals, billboards, and other projects painted, she was the first person we went to,” Pastega said. “She’s a really talented artist.”

Hansen hand-painted the billboards on a smaller scale and

The new billboards incorporate all the different aspects that make up the atmosphere of the Blue Heron: nature, wine, cheese, bread, and the sense of a picnic at a farm.

“The nice thing about her

were all about. We gave her a few style and let her run with it.”

Pastega said the Blue Heron is in the process of updating all remaining billboards and signs in the County. The Blue Heron French Cheese Company is located at 2001 Blue Heron Rd, Tillamook.

Tillamook County Parks Foundation seeks support, board members

CHELSEA YARNELL

For the Headlight Herald

Tillamook County, one of Oregon’s vacation destinations, is home to 15 day use areas, 21 boat launches, and six county campgrounds.

“As the liaison Director of Tillamook County Parks for the past four months, I am on fire for parks,” Tillamook County Commissioner Mary Faith Bell said at the Board of County Commissioners Meeting on March 13. “They’re really just the gems of our County. We live in such a beautiful place that I think we take it for granted. If you haven’t been to Whalen Island lately, go and walk that trail because it’s beautiful. The Trask, Kilchis, and Barview [parks] are just beautiful. Webb County Park: people have been going there for generations. People say, ‘I was here when I was a child. My grandparents used to bring me here.’ There are gen-

See TILLAMOOK, Page A4

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHELSEA YARNELL Julie Hansen was commissioned to create the artwork for the Blue Heron French Cheese Company’s new billboards. Hansen hand-painted the art and then it was scaled for size.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHELSEA YARNELL

The Blue Heron French Cheese Company updated their billboards to feature original art painted by Julie Hansen. New billboards are seen here at the location in Tillamook.

COURTESY PHOTO

Dr. Paul Jarrell

See TBCC, Page A10

PHOTO COURTESY OF TILLAMOOK COUNTY

Whalen Island: Support is sought for the Tillamook County Parks Foundation. The non-profit aims to enhance visitors experience to Tillamook County Parks including Whalen Island.

Board of Commissioners candidate, Fournier details platform

county’s future.

Fournier would prioritize streamlining housing development in the county, supporting law enforcement and increasing access to and affordability of childcare, while diversifying revenue streams.

“I’m a pragmatic optimist,” Fournier said, “I believe this county is destined for amazing things, better things, bigger things. I love what we have here but we’ve got to start investing

and we’re seeing the obvious problems with not investing and trying to stay a poor, small, rural county when we are not. We are a rich county, we have rich resources, both natural and just the beauty of this place.” Born and raised in the Boston area, Fournier studied filmmaking at a local community college and New York University, before beginning his career with short stints in St. Thomas and Boston. Feeling like he was in a rut in Massachusetts, Fournier decided to head west in 1995, originally setting his sights on Los Angeles, where he had friends from film school.

However, in Portland, Fournier, compelled to get to the nearest beach, made for Highway 6 and Tillamook

and arrived at Cape Meares lighthouse, where the view convinced him to stay for the summer.

That first summer, Fourni er stayed in a camper, before moving into a tarpaper shack in Oceanside then to a cabin in Netarts in 1997, where he still lives today.

In his early years in Til lamook, Fournier worked a variety of jobs, driving a produce truck and serving as an editor for the Headlight Herald, before becoming an EMT for Adventist Health’s Ambulance service. Fournier had been a trained EMT for several years prior to his hiring, volunteering with the Netarts-Oceanside Fire District, but the job opportunity only came when he shed his long locks.

was prohibitive, with sewer systems-development charges alone coming in at $15,000.

During his time working as an EMT, Fournier also started working as a reserve deputy for the Tillamook Sheriff’s Department. After a year as a reserve, Fournier applied for a seasonal position as a marine deputy, before being hired onto the force full-time in October 2001.

For the next 17 years, Fournier worked in a variety of roles at the department, starting as a patrol deputy in the City of Garibaldi before working as a detective for a decade in two stints. In 2018, Fournier retired from the department and began working on a variety of projects, mostly in media production and motorcycle repair, before returning to serve as the department’s public information officer in a part-time capacity in 2021.

Fournier decided to run for county commissioner when he looked into developing a piece of property he owned in Netarts to add housing and found that the cost to do so

“If you count my lot in Netarts, with electric, water, sewer and lot price it’s over $100,000 before you even put a shovel in the ground and that doesn’t incentivize people,” Fournier said. “I felt like there was a disconnect, when you’re saying something is a crisis or an emergency then the solution should be easier, not harder.”

While Fournier said he appreciates the work being done by the Tillamook County Housing Commission to support the development of below-market-rate housing, he feels more needs to be done. If elected, Fournier would work to simplify the development process at the county level by digitizing the process and offering pre-approved designs for developers to save money in the permitting process.

In addition to those steps, Fournier said that he would like the county to be involved in expanding infrastructure to pave the way for new developments, noting that in much of the county develop-

ment is on hold for want of water infrastructure. “You’ve got to spend money to make money,” Fournier said, “private money will follow public

That initial experience sparked the idea and Fournier started to campaign in earnest in the summer of 2023, while also beginning a deep dive into the various issues facing

One of the top issues that he identified was a lack of revenue diversification by the county government, leading to chronic anxiety over budgets and hampering the ability to pursue important projects.

To Fournier, the visitor industry represents a golden opportunity to remedy that shortcoming, not through a growth in numbers but by leveraging the huge numbers who already visit the county each year.

“There’s hundreds of millions of dollars that drive through this county every year, I want to grab some of that money,” Fournier said. “I want to capture what we already have. I don’t think we should be marketing Tillamook County at all.”

To increase revenues from tourism, Fournier proposes expanding the county parks department’s campground offerings, building a parking structure in an out-of-sight location in Pacific City and exploring the possibility of adding concessionaires to county properties, specifically mentioning a lighthousethemed, Tillamook County gift store at the scenic pullout on the new Cape Meares Loop Road. Fournier would also favor raising the county’s transient lodging tax rate from the current 10% and is mulling the possibility of adding a

prepared food tax, although he worries about the impacts on restaurants that operate on tight margins.

Stabilizing revenues is key to supporting county staff for Fournier, who said that he worried that doom and gloom projections about the county’s financial solvency were affecting employee recruitment and retention. In particular, Fournier said that stabilizing the funding for the sheriff’s department and offering the staff there the full support of the board of commissioners would be a focus.

Fournier also said that feedback from voters during the campaign had opened his eyes to the dearth of available and affordable childcare in the county. While he is still working to devise solutions, Fournier said that it would be key to partner with local businesses like the Tillamook County Creamery Association and Adventist Health to address the issue.

That willingness to listen to constituent feedback and change his mind, as well as a vast breadth of work experience giving Fournier connections across the entire county, would be two of his greatest strengths as a commissioner, according to Fournier. He said that he would make a point of getting out of the commissioners’ offices to interact with people and that he wasn’t afraid to change his mind. “I don’t mind being wrong,” Fournier said. “I might be confident or arrogant in some areas of my life but I don’t mind being wrong. I like to learn; I’m naturally curious.”

Fournier has been endorsed by State Representative Cyrus Javadi and former Tillamook County Commissioner Mark Labhardt.

Employment declines by 4,900 jobs

Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment dropped by 4,900 jobs in January following a revised gain of 1,900 jobs in December, according to the Oregon Employment Department.

By the numbers

January’s losses were largest in professional and business services (-1,700 jobs); leisure and hospitality (-1,600); other services (-1,400), transportation,

warehousing, and utilities (-1,200); and construction (-600). Gains in January were largest in health care and social assistance (+1,100 jobs) and manufacturing (+500).

Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment dropped by 4,900 jobs, or -0.2%, between January 2023 and January 2024. The private sector cut 15,200 jobs, or -0.9%, over the most recent 12-month period.

Job losses in four major industries stood out, each down by between 3,700 and

9,500 jobs. These industries are information; professional and business services; manufacturing; and retail trade. Five other major industries had smaller losses, between 700 and 2,200 jobs. In contrast, health care and social assistance is up 13,400 jobs, or 4.8%, while government is up 10,300 jobs, or 3.4%, in the 12 months through January. Annual revisions indicate less robust construction employment than originally estimated, according to the state employment department’s report. Construction employed 116,700 in January, which was close to its headcount during each of the past 18 months. Professional and business services was also revised lower, showing that the industry contracted by 9,500 jobs, or -3.6%, in the most recent 12

months.

Over-the-year job declines occurred in each of this major industry’s three components: administrative and waste services (-5,800 jobs); professional and technical services (-3,000); and management of companies and enterprises (-700).

While Oregon’s job growth has been close to flat in the 12 months ending in January, with a decline of 0.2%, at the national level U.S. jobs grew by 1.9% and rose in every month of that period.

Oregon’s unemployment rate was 4.1% in January and 4.0% in December. It has remained in a tight range between 3.4% and 4.2% for more than two years, back to October 2021. The U.S. unemployment rate was 3.7% in both December and January.

COURTESY PHOTO

Paul Fournier

Tillamook County criminal convictions

Country Media, Inc.

On October 25, 2023, Brian Lee Hazeldine, 42, pled no contest to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm, a class C felony, committed on or about October 3, 2023. Hazeldine was sentenced to three years’ probation and ordered to participate in a treatment program.

On January 8, Omar Riveria Guerrero, 21, pled no contest to count of criminal mischief in the second degree, a class A misdemeanor, committed on or about November 22, 2021. Riveria Guerrero was sentenced to time served in jail.

On January 22, Susan Noel, 73, pled no contest to one count of animal neglect in the second degree, a class A violation, committed on or about July 15, 2023. Noel was ordered to pay a $440 fine to the court and a $500 compensatory fine to Tillamook Canine Rescue.

On January 23, Draven Louis Hughes, 19, pled no

contest to one count of attempting to commit the class C or unclassified felony of assaulting a public safety officer, a class A misdemeanor, committed on or about October 16, 2023. Hughes was sentenced to 30 days in jail.

On January 29, Stephanie Nichole Dickie, 36, pled no contest to one count of criminal driving with a suspended or revoked license, a class A misdemeanor, committed on or about November 14, 2023. Dickie was sentenced to two days in jail.

On January 29, Fabian Carlos Niemi, 22, pled no contest to one count of assault in the fourth degree, a class A misdemeanor, committed on or about June 2, 2023. Niemi was sentenced to 18 months’ probation.

On January 31, Andre Tito Pascua, 41, pled guilty to one count of disorderly conduct in the second degree, a class B misdemeanor, committed on or about December 4, 2023. Pascua was sentenced to 120 days in jail.

On January 31, Nicholle Lynae Adams, 38, pled

guilty to one count of theft in the first degree, a class C felony, committed on or about August 13, 2023. Adams was sentenced to 13 months in prison and one year of post-prison supervision.

On February 2, John

David Bonander, 49, pled no contest to three counts of invasion of personal privacy in the first degree, a class C felony, all committed on or about September 22, 2022. Bonander was sentenced to time served in jail and three years’ probation and ordered to pay $604 in attorney fees.

On February 2, Steven

Carlo Mandella, 26, pled no contest to one count of driving under the influence of intoxicants, a class C felony, one count of criminal driving with a suspended or revoked license, a class B felony, and one count of recklessly endangering another person, a class A misdemeanor, all committed on or about June 10, 2023. Mandella was sentenced to 10 months in prison and two years’ post-prison supervision, and his driver’s license

was revoked for life.

On February 5, John William Malloy Junior, 49, pled no contest to one count of menacing constituting domestic violence, a class A misdemeanor, committed on or about January 10. Malloy was sentenced to five days in jail.

On February 5, Aaron John Stoll, 50, was sentenced to a driver’s license suspension of one year for a September 19, 2022, no contest plea on one count of driving under the influence of intoxicants, a class A misdemeanor, committed on or about April 23, 2022. On February 5, Stoll also pled no contest to two counts of aggravated harassment, a class C felony, committed on or about March 9, 2023. On those counts, Stoll was sentenced to three years’ probation while stipulat-

ing that he would serve 18 months in prison should said probation be revoked.

On February 8, Curtis Ray Lorenz II, 46, pled no contest to one count of criminal mischief in the second degree, a class A misdemeanor, committed on or about January 18, 2023, but the count was discharged.

On February 13, Michael Lane Boisa, 25, pled guilty to two counts of criminal driving with a suspended or revoked license, a class A misdemeanor, committed on or about December 14, 2023, and February 4, 2024. Boisa was sentenced to 180 days in jail and one year on bench probation.

On February 20, Kayode Ibn Duckson, 51, pled guilty to one count of driving under the influence of intoxicants, a class A misdemeanor, and one count of

recklessly endangering another person, a class A misdemeanor, both committed on or about August 2, 2023. Duckson was sentenced to five days in jail and three years’ probation, his driver’s license was suspended for one year and he was ordered to pay $2,255 in fines and fees to the court.

On February 21, Leanne Marie Koehler, 50, pled no contest to one count of theft in the third degree, a class C misdemeanor, committed on or about February 12. Koehler was sentenced to 15 days in jail.

On February 26, Timothy Shane Tada, 38, pled no contest to one count of menacing constituting domestic violence, a class A misdemeanor, committed on or about October 31, 2023. Tada was sentenced to time served in jail.

Tillamook Library applies for grant funding for ADA compliant doors

CHELSEA YARNELL

For the Headlight Herald

The Tillamook County Library system wants to make it a little easier to access their books: by upgrading the front doors.

“I’m happy today to have before you a grant applica-

tion for making the doors at the North County Library and South County library accessible,” Tillamook County Library Director Don Allgeier said at the Tillamook County Commissioner meeting on March 13. “Both libraries and the Friends of the Library have identified

over time this as being an issue.”

Allgeier said that the Library has applied to the 2024 Tillamook PUD Community Support Grant requesting $9,500 to install American Disabilities Act compliant buttons that activate swinging doors.

“You’re probably familiar with a lot of public buildings

Tillamook

County Parks Foundation seeks support, board members

From Page A1

that you can push a button and the door opens and people can access the building much easier,” Allgeier said. “We are hopeful the PUD will be supportive of this need. It would be a major benefit to the community.”

Tillamook County Commissioner Doug Olson previously sat on the Tillamook PUD Board for 15 years.

ser to found the Tillamook County Parks Foundation.

“There isn’t extra money to make capital improvements, put in signs, or for extra programing. There’s a whole bunch of stuff that could happen, but doesn’t happen because we don’t have a big, fat funding source,” Lemery said at the March 13 meeting.

Overholser has a background working with park foundations and has seen the positive work that can come from them.

“You have generations of people that have camped and recreated and there are memories,” Overholser said. “That’s our job with parks is to make memories that go back generations. We’re going to try and tap into that and hopefully there’s some

“It’s a wonderful program,” Olson said. “Over the years, Tillamook PUD has put a couple million dollars back into our community.”

The application received support from all three Tillamook County Commissioners.

“Over the last year, we have had a number of different folks bring to our atten-

generosity in that that we can find.”

Lemery (president) and Overholser (board member) created the Parks Foundation as a non-profit and have already funded their first projects.

“We have bought three different park benches to put up in the park system,” Lemery said. “A couple families have donated the funds. People like to see it as a memorial bench.”

Each of the park benches cost $2,600 and are ready to be installed at Barview County Park.

In addition to the benches, the Parks Foundation also helped facilitate a donation of gravel for a boat ramp.

“We haven’t done a whole bunch; we’re trying

tion that there’s a real need for our community and our County, in particular, to focus on inclusivity,” Tillamook County Commissioner Erin Skaar said. “How in our communities do we design things in a way that everyone can have the same experience regardless of ability. I know this is a step toward accessibility.”

to get the word out,” Lemery said. “We’ve mailed brochures (with the help of Commissioner Bell) to all those who are buying annual park passes.”

The Parks Foundation recently updated their website and is accepting donations online.

“I’m excited because I think it has huge potential,” Lemery said. “People love our parks system. We have an amazing number of people who use it. So, how do we promote that and make that a better experience for people? That’s what the Foundation is all about.

In addition to donations, the Parks Foundation is also seeking additional board members.

“We need to have more board members so we can identify projects that people get excited about,” Lemery said. “We can take on some special projects if we can fund them.”

Lemery said one of his dreams is to offer additional accommodations at County Parks such as tiny homes.

“Once we see the possibilities, we’ll make some money. But more importantly, we’ll give the public a diverse recreational opportunity,” Lemery said. In addition to accommodations, the County Commissioners suggested the Parks Foundation look into some accessibility and inclusion projects. All three County Commissioners expressed their support for the work of the Parks Foundation.

“I think you’re on to something and this is an amazing opportunity,” Tillamook County Commissioner Erin Skaar said. “The challenge is the mechanics and logistics to go from where you are today with a powerful, powerful vision and an amazing set of natural resources. How do we logistically kick that off so that the power starts to generate the resources to meet the vision.”

Tillamook County Commissioner Doug Olson encouraged the Parks Foundation to keep up the work as parks have a special meaning to him as well.

“They have an equalizer effect,” Olson said.

“When you pull into a park, everybody looks about the same: you don’t have on your Sunday best, you’re there for a good time. You set up your camp and you visit with the person next you and you wander around a bit. You leave your issues at the gate. You go there and have a good time and build memories.”

“I’m a camper and I’ve camped lots of places,” Commissioner Bell said.

“There are not many places more beautiful than our parks. I encourage people to get out and check them out.”

The Tillamook County Parks Foundation can be reached at tillamookcountyparksfoundation@gmail. com or by visiting their website at: tillamookcountyparksfoundation.org.

“If you’re interested in Tillamook County Parks, reach out,” Commissioner Bell said.

Jetty Creek Working Group making great progress to protect watershed

It’s encouraging to see residents of Rockaway Beach and the North Coast Community engaged in discussions around the management and ownership of the forested watershed. Historically, the forests around Jetty Creek – the source of the town’s drinking water –have been managed without direct input from the City of Rockaway Beach. That is starting to change thanks to conversations happening in the Jetty Creek Working Group. The Jetty Creek Working Group includes participants from North Coast Land Conservancy, the City of Rockaway Beach, and Nuveen Natural Capital, which acquired the lower half of the Jetty Creek watershed in 2017, and my organization, Sustainable Northwest.

Conversations from the working group have led to real progress on the land, including Nuveen Natural Capital agreeing to manage their portion of the watershed with a priority around water quality and habitat protection – including ceasing use of herbicides,

performing road network inventories, completing wildlife habitat restoration work along Jetty Creek, and decommissioning roads.

In 2023, the City of Rockaway Beach formally joined the working group and stated its clear intention to acquire the Jetty Creek watershed. If full acquisition is not possible, the City has also expressed interest in acquiring certain rights to the property that would allow it to manage the land for source drinking water protection. Such an acquisition – either full acquisition, or of an easement to certain rights – is likely eligible for state and federal funding available for such projects. Sustainable Northwest has been involved in several similar projects throughout Oregon and Washington to help communities acquire and manage local forests for local benefits.

Also in 2023, Stimson Lumber Company, which owns the upper portion of the Jetty Creek watershed, began attending meetings to discuss the long-term management of their prop-

FENCEPOSTS

Pete Steen and Kevin Burke gave an informative talk at our community center on March 9 regarding the importance of water in emergency preparedness: how to acquire, store, purify, and conserve water when it isn’t flowing as usual from the tap. They shared crucial information about various methods used to accomplish these goals (e.g., rainwater harvesting) and a number of tools available to help (e.g., Berkey water filters). The session had a good turnout, with about 18 individuals in attendance. Miss the seminar? Contact Pete at 503-312-4216 for a copy of the outline and to answer questions. Many thanks to Pete and Kevin for taking time to educate our community about this critical subject.

Cape Meares authors, photographers, divers, and all-around adventurers Jack and Sue Drafahl notched a new one on their travel belt. They were invited to join a scientific expedition to Antarctica, and they jumped at the opportunity. Blue

Green Expeditions launched a 14-day trip commemorating 150 years of ocean exploration. Jack took the opportunity to expand his reach as a Google Earth photographer; if you search for images of Antarctica on Google, you may well see his pictures from this recent trip. The expedition numbered 103 (eight of whom, including Sue, were Hall of Fame women divers) and, as a smaller group, they were legally permitted to visit smaller islands to view penguins, icebergs and more. During one outing on four Zodiac boats, a humpback whale surfaced. The four boats cut their engines to more fully experience

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erty and share where their activities overlap with impacts to the drinking water priorities identified by the City of Rockaway Beach.

That brings the current and potential future landowners of the Jetty Creek watershed together at one table in an open dialogue about ownership and management of this forest – now and in the future.

Sustainable Northwest has been leading similar collaborative, communityled conversations throughout Oregon and Washington for 30 years. Collaboration is not always the easiest solution, and it’s not always the quickest solution, but it is usually the most durable solution to the natural resource challenges facing rural communities. I’m heartened by the conversations happening recently in the Jetty Creek Working Group. History tells me that by working together, we can achieve long-lasting community and conservation benefits in the Jetty Creek watershed.

Daniel Wear Portland

the encounter. The whale visited each boat in turn. At the last boat, the one Sue was in, the whale put up its fluke and tail and spun the boat around! Sue will never forget that experience. If you would like to hear more about their adventure and see some of their stunning pictures, check out Jack Sue Drafahl Facebook page. It even has a photo of our favorite duo dressed up in arctic gear amidst the ice floes, with a bright blue sky above them.

So, what are the odds of the Drafahls’ next-door neighbors in Cape Meares taking a separate trip to Antarctica…at the same time?! Yes, Laurie and Jim Marsh also vacationed in that faraway continent last month. They were on a small Norwegian cruise ship. Jim explained there are a number of restrictions on visiting Antarctica, dating back to an agreement between the US and the USSR in 1959 to preserve this special environment. Only 100 people from a

See ELLEN, Page A6

The 2024 Annual Garibaldi Crab Races was another rewarding success for the Garibaldi Lions Club. Once again, the event raised thousands of dollars for sight and hearing services for low-income families in Tillamook County. I texted with Jeff Coon of Garibaldi Lions Club. On behalf of the Tillamook area Lions Clubs, Jeff would like to thank those who came out to have fun, those who volunteered to keep the excitement going, the community for supporting, and those who helped get the word out. He also wanted to thank Kelley’s by the Smokestack for doing a great job with the food.

For those wondering, Garibaldi Lions Club is already planning for next year.

Personally, I give an additional shoutout to Garibaldi City Councilor Cheryl Gierga for taking video of some of the races and posting them to Facebook. It made households like ours, who were locked down with flu, feel a part of the action.

Special note: On April 4th-April 19th, (2024), the 7th St. Rail crossing will be closed for upgrades as part of the U.S. 101 ODOT repaving project. According to the Port of Garibaldi, the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad will be the ones upgrading the crossing. The improvements will not only include a smoother ride but improve overall ADA safety. The 3rd St. Exit will remain open during this time. Traffic at the newlyreconstructed 3rd St. exit is expected to be a hectic, but thus is the price of progress and nice things. Keep your head on a swivel and prepare for a little patience in that area. From what I remember,

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Tillamook, OR

croquet sets available for checkout from our Library of Things.”

GARIBALDI

being a member of the design PAC along with thenCommissioner Shattuck and then-Citizen Sheldon, the improvements to the 7th St. crossing were both logistically & aesthetically noticeable and made me feel safer about strollering my toddlers through there. I’m personally excited to see it completed.

For more information, please visit https://www.portofgaribaldi.org/temporaryroad-closure

Garibaldi Portside Bistro held their Job Fair on March 14th. It would appear quite a few qualified candidates walked through the door, but they encourage those interested to apply.

For more information on the list of job openings, please visit portsidebistro. com.

She’s got “The world on a string, sittin’ on a rainbow,” in preparation for Spring. Sweet, succulent Spring. She’s everybody’s favorite local librarian, June Ekborg:

“Happy first day of Spring! The birds are returning to Garibaldi. We have bird identification books and binoculars available for check out at the library. Prefer gardening? We have LOTS of gardening resources to help with your planning and planting. Want to just get out and play? We’ve got disc golf, badminton, and

Lastly, speaking of Cavitts, Amanda Cavitt sent us pictures of the front of the Hook, Line & Sinker being torn down last Wednesday. My first thought was how easy that went down. My second thought was how bittersweet it was to me, as “Hook Line” was the first place Katie & I ate at when her mother moved back to town. I’m sure many other Tillamook Bay residents shared similar experiences there.

I walked by the old haunt and chatted with Dennis Cavitt and his brother Donnie about the project. Those boys had a lot of work ahead of them, but seemed well-paced. In the past, I’d get some gloves and goggles and help be smart lifting heavy things with them, but I’ve got two toddler reasons why I don’t get that fun at the moment.

As for the property at present, the Cavitts leased approximately 25-feet deep, property-wide section of the land to ODOT to use for the U.S. 101 paving project. In addition, they also sold ODOT a 1-ft strip of land to keep the road ADA compliant without the need for a redesign to incorporate a bulky retaining wall.

As for the property’s future, it’s still TBD. Dennis notes that many, many, many, many people request they put a bar back in, but at this time, they can only say confidently that they expect to provide a retail experience of some sort. Probably. After that, it’s anybody’s guess. But with all the construction going on in town, especially in our neighborhood, it’s good to see reinvestment back into these properties.

NATHAN “FINN” FINDLING finn@natfinn.com

ELLEN STEEN ellensteen2@gmail.com

CAPE MEARES

Grandson Logan Morrow, of Prineville, visited Cloverdale with two friends from college for a weekend of boardgames (and hikes between the rain showers) with lodging provided by Yours Truly. We had brunch on Monday at The Grateful Bread Bakery on Brooten Road in Pacific City. It was quiet on a mid-morning Monday; my first visit since their winter vacation did not disappoint.

Join Oregon Food Bank and Tillamook Bay Community College (TBCC) in learning more about what food resources exist in Tillamook County and how

From Page A5

Mike Ihnat passed away surrounded by his beloved family on February 29, 2024 at his home of 68 years in Hebo, Oregon.

Mike was born in Clairton, PA to Joseph and Mary Ihnat in 1926, the youngest of their six children in Pennsylvania. After graduating high school in Clairton he was drafted into the Army. He served two years in Germany before returning home and moving to Oregon with his sister Irene and her husband Clayton. Mike began working for the Tillamook County Road Department

Wayne grew up in Beaver, picking berries with his Mom and twin brother Mike. He often reminisced fishing Beaver Creek and the Nestucca River. He attended Beaver Elementary and graduated from Nestucca Union High School in 1968. After graduation, he spent a short time living and working in the Portland area, at 19 he married (June 1, 1970) Peggy Lue Meier and had two daughters, Shawn and Shannon. In his early 20’s seeking a fresh start Wayne headed north to Alaska. Immediately fell in love with Alaska’s beauty, native people and their culture, as well as the rugged

SOUTHCOUNTY

MELONIE FERGUSON

503-812-4242

mossroses@yahoo.com

we create communities that don’t go hungry. It’s happening from 5 - 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 21 at TBCC (address below). The evening will include a free meal, interpretation for Spanish

cruise ship may be on the continent at one time. Like the Drafahls, the Marshes went on small Zodiac boats to visit nearby islands. They

in 1953, a career he retired from in 1994 after 41 years of service.

Mike also met his wife Anita in Oregon, wisely marrying her at the Tillamook Catholic Church in 1956. They bought a house together in Hebo that same year and started their family a few years later.

speakers and funds to support childcare, gas or other expenses encountered to attend the event. Highlights will be a presentation, a tour of a community pantry and disaster preparedness information. Preregistration is required online. Go to https:// urldefense.proofpoint.com/ v2/url?u=http-3A__bit.ly_bif ooda&d=DwIFaQ&c=euGZs tcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOfv5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=A

Spring Cleaning rummage sale will be hosted by Kiawanda Community Center on Saturday. The hours are 9 a.m. through 4 p.m. on March 23. Shop early for best selection and come back

saw colonies of Gentoo penguins, braying loudly as parents fed their young chicks. While awkwardlooking on land, these

late for another round with the best deals. The center is located at 34600 Cape Kiawanda Drive in Pacific City. There is plenty of free parking.

Now that spring weather is a possibility, we might consider trading our winter weary indoor exercise routines for something outside. The “Walking Wonders” meet at Kiawanda Community Center at 10 a.m. each Monday Wednesday and Friday weekly for a fitness walk. The event is free of charge and all are welcome.

Nestucca Valley Lions will host an Easter Egg Hunt at 11 a.m. sharp in the

penguins are elegant in the water and swim right alongside humpback whales. Whales meandered near the boat the Marshes were

Mike Ihnat 1926-2024

Mike and Anita were huge sports fans, especially of Nestucca High School athletics. The support started when their children played sports and continued with younger generations. You could always count on Bubba and Jedosh, as they were known, cheering you on and loudly questioning referee calls. Mike also loved the Pittsburgh Steelers and you could find him every explore little known corners of the state, hot cups of black

Wayne

lifestyle. For 30 years, Wayne worked at many logging camps all over the Southeast from Prince of Wells to the Kenai peninsula. Logging mainly the, 16.7 million acre, Tongass National Forest. Some of the job sites were so remote, they were accessed by boat or helicopter. Wayne was hard-working and skilled; he could do practically any job in the woods. He felt most in his element, while rigging on the yarder and hooking for the helicopter. Wayne recognized logging as a dangerous occupation and believed safety always came first. He was quick to forward his philosophy to those along the way,

coffee in hand and dogs in tow. They took many backpacking trips and greatly enjoyed all the spectacular sights nature has to offer. Mike loved the outdoors and was an avid fisherman, hunter, and camper.

Mike was a natural gardener starting at the age of three with a fondness for vegetables, tomatoes, and apples. His home in Hebo has extensive gardens and an orchard with over 200 varieties of apple. You could often find him out in the garden with his trusty hoe caring for his award-winning plants, even when he was well into his 90’s. His more recent achievements include winning ribbons for his cabbage and first place for his vegetable basket

Keith Passwaters

Sept. 17, 1950 ~ Oct. 17, 2023

“don’t put up with the dangerous nonsense.” While in the north, he met a myriad of folks and valued the opportunity to cultivate

lifelong friendships. While in Alaska, he lived in Hoonah, Juneau, and Kake. Wayne will be remembered as driven, loving and intelligent by those he left behind.

Wayne reminisced on all the friends and family who visited him in Alaska. During Shannon’s adolescence he was happy to share the Alaskan lifestyle while they lived in Hoonah and Juneau. In 1992, his daughter Shawn visited for a month while he was living in Juneau. Uncle Wayne facilitated a profound experience for his Nephew Michael Passwaters, that shaped his future. He was also visited by Nephew Lee Fisher, Sister Bonnie, and Best Friend Gene Erickson in The Last Frontier. After a 30-year career in Alaska, Wayne returned to his childhood home in Beaver, Oregon. He enjoyed his kitty

soccer field at Nestucca’s K-8 School. The address is 36925 Highway 101 South, in Cloverdale. Bring a camera for photos with the Easter Bunny and tour a fire engine while you’re there. The event is open to youngsters from preschool through fourth grade.

Nestucca Valley Lion, Sandy (Hannemann) Mobley created a beautiful patchwork quilt, in yellows and browns, as a fundraiser for the Lion’s Club. It’s on display during open hours at Oregon Coast Bank, where we can buy raffle tickets. Or email nestuccavalleylions@ gmail.com

on, with one whale rolling over and slapping the water right next to their vessel. How fun it will be for the Drafahls and Marshes

at the Tillamook County Fair. Mike was a spitfire of a man who didn’t take guff from anyone and loved his family with everything he had and then some. He was gentle and kind and slyly funny. Every animal and child he met loved him immediately. He’s had various pets over the years including cats, dogs, geese, peacocks, a raccoon, and even a crow but out of all of them he loved dogs the best. He always had at least one well-loved and spoiled dog at his side. He is survived by his two dogs Ike and Molly. The world was a better place with him in it and he has left a place in all of our hearts that will be impossible to fill. There is no better way to

companions and visits from family and friends, but he also loved it when they left him to his peaceful lifestyle. He relished sharing pearls of wisdom from quotes and contemplations with family and friends, frequently referring to a book he valued, Shambhala the Sacred Path of the Warrior. Creative and free-thinking Dad’s mind was an instrument: utilizing his photographic memory, his passion for learning and his knowledge of the natural world, he had the ability to get you thinking on a deeper level.

Wayne survived by his loving family: daughters, Shawn (David) Dunning and Shannon (John) Huffaker and grandchildren Rikki Hautala, Kaleo Bachiller, Matt Hautala, Jacob Dunning, and Michael Dunning. Leaving behind five

Laura Krueger is taking applications for vendors at local Farmer’s Markets (happening seasonally in Neskowin and Pacific City again this year). Email her at lkrueger@embarqmail.com Happy birthday this week to: Kelly Armstrong, Logan Blackburn, Charleen Coffelt, David Eckhardt, Shane Faust, Jeff Green, Bryce Haltiner, Kathy Heathershaw, Linus Heathershaw, Tatum Heathershaw, Nathan Huddleston, Chloe Love, Verne Mobley, Devin Richwine, Karen Riske, Dylan Schmid, Betsy Sisson, Jeff Turnbaugh and Clara Wheeler.

to reminisce about their special time in Antarctica as they talk “over the fencepost” in their years ahead here in Cape Meares!

honor Mike than to continue what he loved, so the family asks those who would like to remember Mike to plant an apple tree in his memory. A celebration of life will be held in May.

Mike is survived by his wife of nearly 68 years Anita Ihnat of Hebo, Oregon daughter Joni (Brent) May of Siletz, Oregon, son Mike (Mary) Ihnat of Cloverdale, Oregon, daughter Debbie (Andy) Heathershaw of Gaston, Oregon, son Blase (Wendy) Ihnat of Hebo, Oregon, and daughter Lori (Mike) Chitwood of Fort Rock, Oregon as well as his grandchildren (Kassie, Lacey, Sydney, Houston, Emma, Hillary, Spencer, Linus, Tatum, and Lily) and 8 great-grandchildren.

of his six siblings: Kenneth Passwaters, Marion (Becky) Passwaters, Earlene Fisher, Michael (Amanda) Passwaters, Bonnie Anderson. Wayne deeply loved and enjoyed getting to know all his nieces and nephews. Thank you to Jim Keith, Wayne’s neighbor, for his big heart and neighborly way.

Wayne is reunited in death with his beloved parents: Earl Lester Passwaters, Ruth Merle (Myers) Passwaters, older brother Robert Earle Clarence (8/28/35 - 1/17/44) and Bruce Passwaters. Wayne passed at his childhood home in Beaver, Oregon.

Wayne pictured at Fresh Water Divide, AK 1986.

Contact: Shawn at Shawneed@me.com or Shannon at 707-357-0891 for information regarding Wayne’s celebration of life or to share a memory.

Michael Darin Clark Sr. Nov. 14, 1964 ~ Mar. 10, 2024

Along with his brother Fred Clark. Many beautiful grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He has though, joined his lovely sister Carmela, and amazing parents Frederick and Nancy Clark. Forever and always, Michael will be loved and missed dearly. Celebration of life will be held on March 30th, 2024 in Pacific City Oregon at 6410 Spring St. Pacific City Oregon at 2 p.m. There will be another celebration of life held in Springfield IL at a later date for family that can’t make it to Oregon.

John William Trogdon

John William Trogdon was born April 7, 1934 in Wayne, West Virginia to Virgil and Lois (Thacker) Trogdon and passed away February 18, 2024 in Tillamook, Oregon at the age of 89.

John grew up in Ohio and served in the National Guards Tank Battalion.

April 7, 1034 ~ Feb. 18, 2024

John married Olivia “Joan” Stavran on May 12, 1973. He moved to Oregon and worked for Ponderosa Meats in Aloha. After John retired from meat cutting, he started working part time for Waud’s Funeral Home. He worked part time well into his 80’s. John was very active in the

community, volunteering for the YMCA sports activities, and the First Christian Church. He loved to hunt, fish and spend time with his

many friends and family. John is survived by his wife Olivia “Joan” Trogdon of Tillamook, OR. 4 sons Rex (Joyce) Trogdon of Tillamook, OR., Ron Trogdon of Netarts, OR., Yogi (Coleen) Trogdon of Molalla, OR., and Michael Trogdon of Spokane, WA. Step-son Steve Pinter of Tillamook, OR. Step-daughter Syndee Sommer of Portland, OR., and sister Marleen (Dave) Piatt of Rittman, OH. A celebration of life will be held Sunday, April 7, 2024 at 2:00 PM at Waud’s Funeral Home followed by a gathering at the First Christian Church in Tillamook, OR.

Filbert Francis Johnston passed away March 10, 2024. He was 81 years old.

Filbert, who was known to most as “Fib”, was born December 11, 1942, in Til lamook, Oregon, to Glenn W. Johnston and Rosalie J. (Duyck) Johnston. He was the 2nd of 7 children, all raised on the family dairy farm on Eckloff Road. He graduated from Tillamook Catholic High School in 1960. One afternoon in 1962, Fib and his friend Ronnie Braxmeyer decided to follow Rita Thompson home from school (she was a friend of Fib’s sister, Sarah). That was the start of it all, and they were married February 23, 1963. They soon after had 2 sons, Glenn and Jim.

Filbert held several jobs in Tillamook, Astoria, Medford, and Ashland, working for the Tillamook Cheese Factory and for the State of Oregon, before settling in McMinnville in 1966, working as a surveyor for the State. While living in McMinnville, Fib and Rita had 4 more children, 2 more boys, John and Devin, and 2 girls, Mary and Jeanne. In 1971, after the death of his mother, Fib and Rita moved back to Tillamook to help his father and brothers work the family dairy farm. In 1973, their final child, Ross, was born, giving them 7 children, just like his parents. Fib and Rita stayed on the farm, raising their kids and welcoming a few grandkids there. They moved just down the road

from the farm in 1994, when their son, Devin, and his wife, Elena, took over the daily duties of the farm. Fib still drove to the farm every day to milk cows, check mole traps, and work on machinery until his declining health made that too difficult. He was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2012. Even as this terrible disease progressed, he continued to work on the farm, in whatever capacity he could. Fib was a devoted member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. He spent nearly 45 years as a member of the church choir. The choir was a family affair, with his wife, Rita, his sister, Marie, and most of Fib and Rita’s kids playing active roles at one time or another, singing and playing guitars. The other choir members who were not related to Fib also became like family, and he cherished his many years singing with these wonderful people.

Filbert Francis Johnston

Dec. 11, 1942 ~ Mar. 10, 2024

While working the dairy farm and raising his family, Fib spent several years on the board of directors of Farmers Coop Creamery in McMinnville. This allowed him and Rita to travel to many places throughout the United States for dairy conventions. He followed in his father’s footsteps in wanting the dairy industry to be an honorable and worthwhile venture for his family, his farm, and his cows. Fib was a steward of the land, and worked very hard to preserve his farm for future generations.

Fib loved learning, and was an avid reader. He also had a passion for music. He loved singing, and would play the concertina and accordion on occasion, as well as the harmonica. But most of all, Fib loved his family. His kids were his best friends, and his grandchildren were the light of his life. Many lifelong friends became family to Fib and Rita as well, and friends were always welcomed with a cup of coffee and a seat at the kitchen table.

Filbert is survived by his wife of 61 years, Rita J. (Thompson) Johnston, his children Glenn and wife Wendy Johnston, James “Jim” Johnston, John and wife Nancy Johnston, Devin and wife Elena Johnston, Mary Shroll, Jeanne and husband Scott Johnston, and Ross and wife Ona Johnston, 22 grandchildren, [Seth (Jennifer), Rosalie, Sean, Devin (Brit), Marlee

Edith Emily (Stephens) Robideau

Aug. 13, 1932 ~ Feb. 29, 2024

Edith Emily (Stephens)

was born on August 13, 1932 in Vancouver, BC Canada. She passed

on February 29, 2024 in Tillamook with family by her side. She moved to the United States in September 1962 with her husband, Leo, and children. The family moved a few times before settling in Tillamook in 1968. Mom was quickly employed by the Headlight Herald as office manager until retirement.

Mom and Dad enjoyed traveling, dancing and camping. She also enjoyed reading, playing board and card

Gerald J. Opdahl passed unexpectedly on March 7, 2024. He was 78 and survived by his wife Gretchen Gambee Opdahl and six sons, Patrick Gerald & his wife Marianne Bullock Opdahl - their seven children in Warren, OR; Thomas James and his wife Kristin Monique Tea Opdahl, - their six children (one deceased) in Battle Ground, WA; Joseph Benjamin - his four children in Olympia, WA; Jordan Michael and his pre-deceased wife Rebecca Ashby Opdahl - their one child, second wife - Jill Marie Anderton Opdahl - their five children in Olympia, WA; Gregory John - his

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

He was born in Seattle, Washington November 3, 1944. He was the first child of his parents and named after his father, Robert Leo Miller. He preferred his nick name, Bud Miller. His surviving family are a brother, and 2 sisters. He married his soul mate in 1967 and so his family increased.

games, watching sports and many news channels. Edith was preceded in

Gerald J. Opdahl

five children in Tempe, AZ; and Christopher Ryan & his wife Rachel Ann Nixon - their five children in Tillamook, OR, and five

Robert L. Miller

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.

(Tanner), Ruth (DJ), Isaac, Louisa (Kyle), Sam (Brooke), Worth, Emily (Sean), Kaleb (Laura), Luke (Emmalynn), Jake (Megan), Jack (Mackenzie), Megan (Colton), Henry, Adrian, Austin, Lexie, Payntor and Arleigh], and 10 great-grandchildren (Rachel, Colt, River, Bailey, Addison, Abigail, Charlotte, Elijah, Elliana, and Graham), with 7 more great-grandchildren arriving by August. All of Fib’s siblings survive him: Coleta LeFore, Alice Plowman, Sarah McCoy, Marie and husband Bob Willhite, Emil and wife Joy Johnston, and David and wife Sue Johnston, stepbrother Larry and wife Terry Blondo, step-sisters Patricia Blondo, Chris and husband Paul Denfield, and Cindy Erickson. Fib is preceded in death by both of his parents, Glenn and Rosalie Johnston, his step-mother, Eileen Johnston, son-in-law James Shroll, and brothers-in-law Loyal LeFore, Richard Plowman, Denny McCoy, Ned Taylor, and Mike Erickson.

The Johnston family would like to acknowledge and thank the wonderful and caring people from Home Health and Hospice who helped Fib dur-

ing the last year of his illness. It is difficult to put into words how invaluable your services were, and how generous you were with your hearts and your time. It is even harder to express our gratitude. Thank you.

A funeral mass will be held on April 13, 2024, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church at 11:00 a.m. The Rosary will be just before the service at 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a financial donation to any hospice center.

death by her husband Leo Robideau, grandson Prowdy Walker and son-in-law Steve Simpson. She is survived by her son Rick (Bev), daughters Marlene Walker (Norm), Linda Simpson, Cheryl Stuebing (Wayne), Della Bakker (Tom); 10 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren.

Edith also leaves behind her longtime friends Marlene Thompson, Linda Wilks, Cheryl and Bruce Widener.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date with family and friends.

great grandchildren. Also, his sister Mavis Brantner of Fargo, North Dakota. Gerry worked as a civil engineer in various aspects, (including owning his own construction company) for over 40 years. He served faithfully for over 50 years in various callings in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day-Saints, was a foster parent for years, and a devoted, faithful husband & father. He also served as a Port Commissioner for Tillamook Bay. Memorial services were held at the Tillamook LDS church in Tillamook last Thursday, March 14 at 10 a.m.

Cathy Normile, a beloved mother, grandmother and educator passed away on February 8, 2024, in Tillamook, Oregon, at the age of 86 following a brief illness.

Cathy was born on January 30, 1938, to Phillip and Agnes (Pendergast) Galluzzo in Hood River, Oregon. She was raised in Portland with her two siblings, Margaret and Phillip. Cathy attended Immaculata High School, worked at Meier and Frank department store, and attended Portland State University, where she studied education and graduated in 1960. Shortly after graduation, Cathy married Donald Normile. She accepted her first teaching job which quickly turned into a career.

Cathy and Don moved to California where their children, Suzy and Steve were born, then returned to Portland shortly thereafter. In 1968, they moved to Tillamook, where Cathy started teaching at South Prairie Elementary School.

Cathy led a very active life as a mom to Suzy and Steve, a grandmother to Isabella Sassi, Joe Sassi, Nate Normile and Adrienne

Catherine Normile 1938~2024

Normile, and a teacher of nearly one thousand South Prairie first graders across 30 years. She got a special kick seeing her former students grown and contributing around the county. Cathy enjoyed traveling the world with her friends and walking groups and especially with her family.

Cathy had a great fondness for Ireland, Scotland, and Italy among other countries. Some of her favorite travel included trips with Steve and his family to Europe. Cathy fondly recalled a special trip with Suzy and Steve to Venice and Northern Italy.

At home, Cathy appreciated the beauty of the Oregon

coast, reading books from her beloved Tillamook County library, and the friendships forged when exercising with the Strong Women group.

Cathy loved her family. She cherished her time with them, enthusiastically celebrating important milestones and holidays.

Cathy is pre-deceased by her parents, and her brother Phillip and sister Margaret.

Cathy is survived by her daughter Suzy, Suzy’s husband Pete, their two children Isabella and Joe; her son Steve, Steve’s wife Erin, and their two children Nate and Adrienne as well as several nieces and nephews.

The Normile and Sassi families would like to thank the dear friends of Cathy, with a special note to Margie Howard for her unwavering support, care and love.

A memorial service to celebrate Cathy’s life will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church at 2411 5th Street in Tillamook on April 6, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Cathy’s treasured Tillamook County Library in honor of her love of children’s literature.

Eileen Marie Gogue

July 13, 1942 ~ Mar. 10, 2024

Eileen Marie Gogue of Tillamook passed away on Mar. 10, 2024. A service was held on Mar. 18, 2024.

Helen Louise Gienger

April 5, 1935 ~ Mar. 10, 2024

Helen Louise Gienger of Bay City passed away at the age of 88 on Mar. 10, 2024. A service will be announced at a later date.

OBITUARY POLICY: The Headlight Herald has three options for submitting obituaries:

BASIC OBITUARY: Includes the person’s name, age, town of residency, and information about funeral services – No Cost.

CUSTOM OBITUARY: You choose the length, the wording of the announcement, and if you want a small photo included – Cost is $75 for the first 200 words, $50 for each additional 200 words.

PREMIUM OBITUARY: Often used by families who wish to include several photos and a longer announcement, or who wish to run a thank-you list of names – Cost varies by length of announcement.

Provide digital versions of text and photographs by email, CD or USB Drive. All obituaries are placed on tillamookheadlightherald.com/obituaries at no cost

announced her campaign to represent Tillamook County as your next Assessor.

Kari has worked for the office for over 20 years and looks forward to stepping up and filling the shoes that Denise Vandecoevering leaves behind in retirement in January 2025.

Kari’s appraisal career started as an appraiser trainee in January 2004 after leaving her job as a Quality Control Manager for an Organic Spice Company in San Marcos, CA. The high cost of living and lack of income growth led Steele and Kari to move back home to Tillamook County, where she grew up, and Steele Fleisher, future husband, volunteered at Camp Magruder.

After landing a 2nd

interview, Kari began her career in property appraisal. Kari started appraising instantly in rural North County for Nehalem, Wheeler, and Miami Foley. She quickly obtained rural South County, which consisted of Cloverdale, Beaver, Hebo, Slab Creek,

and the like. It wasn’t long before she began appraising farms and forestland. Within four years, Kari started to appraise commercial and industrial properties. Years later, Kari is appraising commercial, industrial, tax exemptions, and residential properties in Neskowin, Pacific City, Tierra Del Mar, and Cascade Head. Kari is responsible for 25% of the appraisal workload annually, with a staff of 9 appraisers. She became a member of the International Association of Assessing Officers in 2007. Through her membership, Kari has taken multiple courses to enhance her education, networked with fellow appraisers and assessors, and kept current on changes in appraisal standards. During the end of the pandemic, Kari decided

it was time to increase her knowledge base, and she enrolled back at Southern Oregon University, where she had previously received her bachelor’s degree, to obtain her master’s in business administration. Kari completed her degree in less than 16 months and was awarded for being in the top 90% of MBA graduates who took the MBA field test. Kari specializes in data analytics, which will continue to be essential in the mass appraisal of properties.

Kari, from a young age, was community-minded and remains so today from a 12-year 4-H member, Oregon 4-H Ambassador, former City Councilor and City Council President for the City of Bay City, former President of a local union representing 200+ employees in Tilla-

CARE is making slow yet steady progress toward opening a new shelter in Tillamook

Progress continues as Community Action Resource Enterprises (CARE), Inc. works to bring new shelter options to Tillamook County this spring. The first phase of the project –which will include a large, congregate, short-term shelter; several smaller short- to mid-term shelter for individuals and families; and restroom facilities for shelter guests – will be completed by early summer 2024. Shelter guests will not only receive safe and secure shelter but will also have access to CARE’s wide array of services to provide the support and assistance guests may need as they progress along their journey to sustainable, long-term housing.

“This is a first of its

kind project in Tillamook County, so we are working hard to make this work for all the members of our community,” explains Jeff Blackford, CARE’s Executive Director. “We are excited for this project and for the opportunity it provides to expand the services and supports we can offer the community.” CARE already provides many forms of housing and shelter services for the residents of Tillamook County. Shelter services include the annual winter warming center and the micro-shelter village on Third St. CARE also provides extensive care management services for people who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of losing their housing. All CARE clients utilizing shel-

mook County, Director of the Neah-Kah-Nie School Board, Vice Chair of the Tillamook County Housing Commission, and Chair of the Legislative Committee for the Housing Commission. This dedication and community input led her to run for this position in 2012 and Commissioner in 2018. Kari is also passionate about speaking up for or against new legislation impacting her community and would continue to do so as an elected official when appropriate.

ter services receive these case management services.

“CARE is designed to provide comprehensive wrap-around services that support the members of our community wherever they are along the housing continuum,” Blackford continues. “This includes everything from prevention services to help people avoid experiencing homelessness to rapid re-housing services to help people quickly move back into stable housing so their experience with homelessness is as brief as possible, as well as services to support and empower people who are experiencing chronic homelessness to progress toward long-term housing. And this is just a part of what we do at CARE!”

Progress on this project has been slowed due to the weather. The shelter will be placed next to the CARE offices where clients will have direct access to services. Unfortunately, excavation on the site for the shelters cannot proceed while the soil is saturated from rainwater. “The weather has not cooperated with this project so far,” observes Blackford. “But we are not deterred. We are fully committed to this project being completed by early summer.

To learn more about CARE visit their website at www.CAREinc.org and like them on Facebook @ TillamookCARE. To learn what CARE can do for you, please give them a call at 503-842-5261.

Kari will continue to collaborate with numerous stakeholders to maintain relationships and keep current on rules and responsibilities. Kari aims to enhance taxpayer education about the tax laws that impact them regarding their property and business via the website, in-person events, and the media.

For more information, please visit her website at www.karifleisher.com or contact her directly at kari@karifleisher.com.

COURTESY PHOTO Kari Fleisher.

Neah-Kah-Nie baseball/softball season preview

MIKE WEBER For The Headlight Herald

The Neah-Kah-Nie High Pirates Class 3A baseball and softball teams both opened their spring season last week with nonleague contest’s.

An offseason of changes took place on the Pirates baseball team as former Coach Rob Herder retired and 10 seniors graduated from last year’s OSAA state playoff team. New first-year head Coach Steve Overstreet will be steering the Pirates’ ship now after he was an assistant coach the previous two years.

“We’re ready to start the season, I’m excited about it and we’ll see what happens,” said Overstreet. “We had seven of the graduated seniors who were starters last year. We had some underclassmen who were pitching a lot last year, so we have some experienced guys who will be able to help us on the mound,

so that’s one thing that I’m excited about.” The Pirates enjoyed tremendous success last year as they took third place in the nine-team Special District 1 standings at 13-3 and 18-8 overall. The Pirates advanced to the second round of the 20team state playoffs and they lost a road game 4-2 to the Sisters High Outlaws (20-8 in 2023) to end their season.

Overstreet didn’t have his entire 17-member squad available for practice until March 9. Practice started Feb. 26, but five players were unable to participate because they were on the Neah-Kah-Nie basketball team that was competing in the state tournament Feb. 29-March 2 in Coos Bay.

“We’ve got a lot of depth on our team, so we’ll rotate some playars in and out of the lineup and we’ll go from there,” said Overstreet. “We’ll be counting on our two

seniors Anthony Allen and Johnny Burch to help lead our offense. We’re also expecting to see some good, strong hitting from Ethan Hanson, Brody Mersereau, Brady Douma and Kason Fletcher.”

There will be lots of new faces this year in the Pirates starting lineup this year as they’ll be seeking to reach the state playoffs for a fifth straight year. The Pirates have just two returning starters from last year’s squad in Allen and Hanson. Allen earned an SD1 First Team All League Award last year. The No. 16-ranked Pirates (0-1) opened the season with a 14-4 nonleague loss to the No. 4-ranked Taft High Tigers (2-0) March 14 at Taft High School in Lincoln City.

The Pirates play their next contest in a 4:30 p.m. nonleague matchup Friday versus the Class 2A No. 9-ranked Vernonia/Jewell High Log-

gers (1-1) at Vernonia High School. Neah-Kah-Nie begins a 16-game SD1 schedule April 2 with a 4:30 p.m. contest versus the No. 27-ranked Horizon Christian High Hawks (1-1) in Tualatin. The defending SD1 league champ/state champion Banks High Braves (1-0) are expected to be one of the top contenders again this season since 10 of their 15 players return from last year’s team.

Neah-Kah-Nie Softball

The OSAA reclassification two years ago turned out to be a nightmare for the NeahKah-Nie High Pirates softball team. One year after reaching the 2022 Class 2A/1A state playoffs, everything went downhill for the Pirates after moving up to the 3A level in 2023. The Pirates started last year with a nine-game losing streak, which they snapped with an 11-8 home win over the Warrenton High Warriors on April 24, 2023. The Pirates lost 10-straight games to conclude the season with a 1-14 SD1 record and 1-19 overall. The Pirates, guided by firstyear Coach Jenni Stinnett, played very competitively throughout the season, which included seven close losses by

TBCC President discusses past, programs, plans

From Page A1

of teaching. “What I miss about it is the kind of more instant gratification,” Jarrell said, “you see when someone gets something right you can just see their body language change when they finally understand something and you know that’s very rewarding to be able to see that instant feedback.”

When a dean at Pasadena City College departed, Jarrell moved into the role in what was supposed to be a temporary capacity but became a permanent migration to administration.

When both of his adult daughters moved to Oregon in the mid-2010s, Jarrell began looking for a new job closer to them and landed a job as provost and executive vice president at Lane Community College.

After four years there, Jarrell said that he was interested in moving somewhere more rural with a slower pace of life. Jarrell knew Tomlin, who spoke highly of Tillamook Bay Community College (TBCC) and applied for the position of vice president of instruction and student services, moving to

single digit margins. The Pirates are focusing on having a much improved record this season. A solid group of seniors with Melly Pierson, Makenna Bentley, Kailyn Stinnett, Liliana Rodriguez and Ayumi Takami will help provide leadership on the team. Pierson and Rodriguez will lead the defense as the top-two hurlers in the pitching circle.

“The seniors are great leaders for the younger girls,” said Coach Stinnett, who was a Pirates assistant coach last year. “We have kind of a young team with six freshmen, one sophomore and one junior. A majority of our players are very young and since we have a new coaching staff, we’re just kind of rebuilding. We have a good group of girls and we’ll see how things go. We’re just hoping to have a good season and I’m excited to see how well our team will do this year. Last year we had our chances to win and we were in lots of close games, but we just couldn’t pull out many victories.”

The much improved 13-member Pirates squad (1-0), had a great start to the season with a 19-18 nonleague home win over the Taft High Tigers (0-2) March 13. The season opening victory

the coast in June 2022.

In that role, Jarrell was involved in helping to launch TBCC’s nursing program, whose first group of students matriculated in January. The first cohort has 16 students, who will complete the program in 18 months. Jarrell and the staff at TBCC are also finalizing preparations for the construction of a new, $23.8-million healthcare education building, set to break ground in late May and house the nursing program upon its completion in summer 2025. The $23.8-million, 28,000-square-foot building is being financed in part by a $14.4 million bond approved by voters in May 2022, with another $8 million coming from the Oregon legislature and the balance coming from a $1.4-million bond premium. Jarrell said that he is excited for the building’s impact on the college’s aesthetics and student life as well as its addition of a 300-seat auditorium to gathering spaces available in the county. “That is going to be really exciting and transformational for the college because now we’ll have a sense of campus here with two buildings, a plaza and a courtyard in between that allows for some student spaces, so I’m really looking forward to seeing that transition,” Jarrell said. Beyond the nursing

equaled their win total from last year after just one game, which is certainly something to get excited about.

The victory also indicates that the Pirates have definitely improved by leaps and bounds from a year ago. Considering that they lost 15-0 to Taft last year on March 23, 2023, there’s no doubt that this group of Pirates has definitely already proved to be a much better team than last year’s squad.

Kailyn Stinnett (Jenni’s daughter) and junior Lorelai Keefauver are expected to lead the offense as the Pirates two best hitters. Keefauver and sophomore Emma Grimes are key returning players from last year who will be counted on to make significant contributions offensively and defensively for the Pirates.

The No. 11-ranked Pirates begin a 15-game SD1 schedule with a 4:30 p.m. home contest versus the Rainier High Columbians (0-1) April 2 at Neah-Kah-Nie High School in Rockaway.

The defending league champion Valley Catholic High Valiants (16-7 in 2023) are considered to be the top team again this year since they have 15 of their 18 players returning from last year’s state quarterfinal playoff squad.

program and new facility, Jarrell is focused on working with area businesses to develop and update programs at the college to meet evolving workforce needs. Jarrell said that he views the role of TBCC and other rural community colleges as serving as an economic and workforce development engine and that he appreciates the support of the Tillamook County Creamery Association, Hampton Lumber and Stimson Lumber.

Jarrell said that he plans to examine ways that the college’s career technical education programs can evolve to prepare students for jobs in advanced manufacturing, automation in machining and robotics.

Expanding the school’s partnerships with the county’s school districts is also important to Jarrell. TBCC is a member of the Tillamook Education Consortium, which is working to bolster career technical education opportunities in the county by combining resources amongst the three school districts and TBCC. The consortium recently received a million-dollar grant from the state’s department of education to help fund pre-apprenticeship and career technical education programs.

“We’re always looking at ways to strengthen our programs that we have that can lead to good, livingwage jobs,” Jarell said, also mentioning that he would like to increase the college’s teacher-training efforts.

Jarrell also said that supporting students and expanding access to the wide array of potential students in the county would be a guiding principle during his tenure.

“We’re an open access institution, right? That means if you apply here, you are accepted and you will come here and we welcome you,” Jarrell said. “When I think of student support that’s what I think of is like how can we leverage all the resources we have to be able to meet the wide variety of needs that are out there for our students.”

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MISCELLANEOUS:

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your terms while we take care of the details. Say goodbye to cooking and cleaning, and spend more time pursuing your interests and passions!

Call (971) 247-3047 or visit prestigecare.com/fiverivers Fairview Trucking Company has F.T Maxi-Driver & F.T. Log Truck Driver Positions available

written comments received by the deadline will be distributed to the committee and the appropriate staff prior to the start of the meeting. The written comments will be included in the record copy of the meeting. A copy of the budget document may be inspected online, on or after March 31, 2024 at the City’s website: www.ci.wheeler.or.us. These are public meetings where deliberation of the budget committee will take place. Any person may provide comment at the meetings. Notice of publication is also available at www.ci.wheeler. or.us.

Public Notice

The City of Wheeler Budget Committee will hold a public hearing in order to receive public comment on the possible uses of state shared revenues. The hearing will take place on Tuesday, April 23, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. Public Comment: If you wish to provide public comment for these meetings, you must submit it by noon, the day of the meeting, to citymanager@ci.wheeler.or.us. All written comments received by the deadline will be distributed to the committee and the appropriate staff prior to the start of the meeting. The written comments will be included in the record copy of the

HH24-071

SERVICES:

SERVICES:

SERVICES:

No weekends, willing to train on flatbeds. Must have Class A CDL with doubles endorsement. Benefit package plus no accident/no ticket bonuses.

To

•

•

•

•

Sp.

Nehalem

SUBSTITUTES NEEDED – PLEASE CONTACT ESS.COM

Teacher Substitutes

To

Secretarial, Cafeteria, and Custodial Substitutes Needed

School District and follow the application process.

To apply for any of the positions, except for substitute positions, go to TalentEd at https://neahkahnie.schoolrecruiter.net/

For More Information Contact:

Kathie Sellars, Administrative Assistant

Neah-Kah-Nie School District PO Box 28/504 N. Third Avenue

Rockaway Beach, OR 97136

Phone (503) 355-3506

Vacancy announcements can be found on our website at www.nknsd.org

Neah-Kah-Nie School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Click on this QR code to go straight to our current vacancies.

Tillamook School District No.9 9

• Elementary Teacher, 2024/25 School Year @ Liberty (03T-25)

• Social Studies Teacher, 2024/25 School Year @ TJHS (04T-25)

• Math Teacher, 2024/25 School Year @ TJHS (05T -25)

-25)

• Elementary Teacher, 2 Positions, 2024/25 School Year @ East (06T -25)

• Language Arts Teacher, 2024/25 School Year @ THS (07T-25)

• Elementary Teacher, 2024/25 School Year @ South Prairie (10T-25)

Classified:

• School Bus Driver @ Transportation (14-24)

• SpEd/Special Care EA, 7.5 hrs/day, 1.0 FTE @ THS (36-24)

• Ed. Tech – District Latino Family Liaison @ DO (56-24)

• SpEd/Special Care EA, 7.5 hrs/day, 1.0 FTE @ South Prairie (61-24)

• Preschool Educational Assistant, 7.5 hrs/day, 1.0 FTE @ WRS (63-24)

• General Educational Assistant, 7.5 hrs/day, 1.0 FTE @ TJHS (64-24)

• SpEd/Special Care EA, 7.5 hrs/day, 1.0 FTE, 2 Positions @ East (65-24 & 66-24)

• Eaglet Education Center Coordinator, 2024/25 School Year @ WRS (01-25)

Extra Duty

• Assistant Football Coach @ THS (01X-25)

• Cross Country Coach @ THS (02X-25)

• Head Wrestling Coach @ THS (03X-25)

• Head Girls Wrestling Coach @ THS (04X-25)

• JV Boys Basketball Coach @ THS (05X-25)

• Boys Head Basketball Coach (Varsity) @ THS (06X-25)

• Flag Football Coach @ THS (78X-24)

Substitues

• Certified Substitute Teacher (01S-23)

• Support Staff Substitute- EAs, Bus Drivers, Food Service, Secretarial, Custodial (02S-23)

To view job details, qualifications and more job postings, visit our website www.tillamook.k12.or.us

Questions? Contact: Hannah Snow Roberts, snowh@tillamook.k12.or.us, (503) 842-4414, ext. 1200

Full time employees are entitled to excellent benefits, including health insurance and r etirement benefits (PERS). Tillamook School District is an equal opportunity educator and employer. All employees must pass a criminal background/fingerprint check.

If you are a veteran of the armed forces, assistance may be available from a county veterans’ service officer or community action agency. Contact information for a local county veterans’ service officer and community action agency may be obtained by calling a 2-11 information service.

Facilities Coordinator

Full Time, $47,972 - $68,396/Year

Healthcare Program Coordinator

Full Time, $47,972 - $68,396/Year

Senior Accountant

Full Time, $58,310 - $83,137/Year

TBCC Offers Excellent Benefits, 11 Extra Paid Days Off, Tuition Waiver, Full Employer Paid PERS and more! https://tillamookbaycc.edu/about-tbcc/jobs/ TBCC is an equal opportunity educator and employer.

The 2024 seasonal positions are now posted all in one for the Tillamook Visitor Center. Follow the QR code to apply.

2024 Seasonal Positions:

· Ice Cream Scooper - 14 years or older

· Retail Associate - 14 years or older

· Warehouse Associate - 16 years or older

· Cafe Associate - 14 years or older

· Custodian - 14 years or older

· Prep Cook - 16 years or older

· Line Cook - 16 years or older

· Dishwasher - 16 years or older

· Brand Ambassador - 16 years or older

*Inordertostayincompliancewithstate andfederallaws,youmustbethelistedageabove tobeconsideredforeachposition.*

TILLAMOOK PUD JOB OPENINGS

Cashier/Customer Representative

Closing date: April 8, 2024

Summer Internships:

Electrical Engineering

Drone Program Operator

Closing date: Open until filled

High School Work Program (Class of 2025): Office Warehouse Shop

Closing date: May 16, 2024

For a full job posting and requirements please visit our website at https://www.tpud.org/about-us/job-openings/

Tillamook People’s Utility District Whitney Christensen,

Resources Generalist (503) 815-8638

Email: wchristensen@tpud.org

Tillamook PUD is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Please check out our website for more information on these and other great opportunities www.tillamook.com

H23217

Job Announcement

Security & Code Enforcement

The Port of Garibaldi is seeking qualified individuals for regular full-time employment.

EXEMPT POSITION - 40 hours per week, pay starting at $25.00 per hour depending on experience.

Full benefits and PERS are also offered with this position.

Position REQUIRES valid driver’s license and may require a background/credit check. Prior experience in law enforcement is desired, but not required. Prior experience with hazardous materials handling and event security desired but not required. This position is responsible for initiating and maintaining an overall safety program, providing general security for persons and property under the Port District’s jurisdiction, enforcement of port regulations and resolutions and is a liaison to local first responders. Incumbents patrol buildings, docks, piers, roads, trails, and grounds to determine security issues and potentially hazardous conditions or safety violations. Full job description and requirements will be posted on the port website and in the port office. Estimated date of employment is April 1. Applications due by March 20th at 3:00PM and are available at the Port of Garibaldi office, 402 S 7th St., Garibaldi or online at www.portofgaribaldi.org. Applications may be turned in at the port office or at jessi@portofgaribaldi.org

Any questions may be directed to the Port of Garibaldi (503) 322-3292. H23326

“Hi, my name is Princesa. I’m a beautiful, sweet, loving brown tabby girl. I will be one year old on the 19th. When I was a kitten, I was adopted through United Paws. I was greatly loved, but as sometimes happens, it didn’t work out. Just to show you how much I was loved, I was surrendered back to United Paws to be rehomed. I’m sad, but I’m so lucky. Lots and lots, way too many kitties are just dumped off and abandoned. They don’t know how to survive out there. I know that I wouldn’t. Now, you can be lucky, too, by filling out and submitting this app, inviting me into your home forever. I’m a good kitty, really. You won’t be disappointed. BTW, I like to sleep with my owner. You’ll like it, too.” https://unitedpaws.wordpress.com/online-adoption-application.

Tillamook County Church Services

NEHALEM BAY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

a.m. We invite you to join us.

HIS GATHERING

111 Driftwood Ave

Garibaldi, OR 97118

www.hisgathering.net

Sundays at 10:30 a.m.

Nehalem

36050 10th Street, Nehalem, OR (503) 368-5612

Pastor Celeste Deveney + Sunday service

11 a.m.

Food Pantry Open Friday, Saturday & Monday

10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Wednesday March - October 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

November - February noon to 4 p.m.

Nehalem Senior Lunches

Tuesday & Thursday served at noon

email: nbumcnsl2020@gmail.com

Netarts

NETARTS FRIENDS CHURCH

4685 Alder Cove Rd. West, (503) 842-8375

Email: friendschurchnetarts@gmail.com

Website: www.netartsfriends.org

Pastor Aaron Carlson, Adult & Youth

Worship Service: 9:30 a.m.

Children’s Sunday School: 9:30 a.m.

Nursery available

Handicap Accessible Small Groups All are welcome!

Pacific City

NESTUCCA VALLEY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

35305 Brooten Road, (503) 965-6229

Rev. Ken Hood

www.nestuccavalleypc.org

Weekly Bible study group Fridays at 10 a.m.

Open communion the first Sunday of each month

Sunday 10 a.m.

Regular services

Everyone is welcome

PACIFIC COAST BIBLE CHURCH

35220 Brooten Road (Adjacent Post Office)

Pastor Dan Mason (503) 926-8234

Sunday Worship: 9:30 a.m.

Sunday School 11:15

p.m.

Christian Radio Station: KGLS-LP 99.1 FM

Handicap accessible All are Welcome!!

SACRED HEART CATHOLIC CHURCH

2411 Fifth St. (mailing: 2410 Fifth St.) Tillamook, OR 97141, (503) 842-6647

email: sacredheart2405@gmail.com

website: sacredheartchurchtillamook.org

Pastor: Rev. Angelo Te

Mass Schedule: Saturday (5 p.m.)

Sunday (8:30 a.m.) Spanish (12:30 p.m.)

Weekdays: