TNG516

On the prowl

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife issues bear advisory

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife

(ODFW) is advising coastal residents that with spring comes the emergence of black bears from their dens in search of food.

“Now is the prime time to look around your property and make sure food sources attractive to bears are secure and inaccessible,” The ODFW states in a release. “If you live along the Oregon Coast or own or manage coastal rental property, consider using bear-resistant trash cans.”

According to the ODFW, a bear’s strongest sense is smell and everything from trash cans to grill drippings can bring them to your property. Finding your trash spread out across the yard or driveway can certainly ruin your day, but the consequences could be much more severe. If bears become habituated to humans, too comfortable

around people, they could pose a serious threat to human safety.

“A bear that loses its wariness of people and becomes conditioned to human-provided sources of food may be humanely killed, the ODFW release states. “This is often the only option to protect humans and ultimately to protect the larger bear population from learning the same behavior.”

Bear background

Bears, like all wildlife, have a specialized diet that coincides with seasonal changes. Access to human-provided food can negatively impact their health, lead to conflict with humans and in many cases have fatal consequences.

Bears have a great memory when it comes to food. Not only will they remember where they have found food before, including trash, but female bears will also pass this knowledge down to their young. Intentionally or unintentionally feeding bears can negatively affect

multiple generations of bears.

Most conflict between humans and bears is preventable. Bears don’t want to be around humans, but the prospect of an easy meal is often too good to resist. Removing things that attract them to the area is the most important thing you can do to protect people and ensure bears stay wild.

The ODFW recommends that residents follow these BearWise tips:

Never feed or approach bears. Feeding bears, intentionally or unintentionally, will cause them to associate humans with food. It is also against the law in Oregon (ORS 496.730).

Secure food, garbage and recycling. Please ensure that your trash and dumpsters are secure from bears by using commercially available garbage cans, metal bars over dumpsters, fully enclosed trash storage, or by storing garbage inside. Take trash out immediately before pick-up, not the night before. Wash garbage cans with bleach to reduce their smell. Food

See BEARS, Page 11

Second sinkhole appears at Cape K

Courtesy photo from the OPRD

The new sinkhole measures about 10 feet across and about 30 feet deep and developed within the safety fence of the first sinkhole in the northwest corner of the lower dune.

JEREMY C. RUARK Country Media, Inc.

A second, deeper sinkhole has appeared at the Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area at Pacific City.

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department officials are asking visitors to use caution and to stay away from the area. The second sinkhole was discovered Monday

about 10 inches away from the first, which appeared in January. The new sinkhole measures about 10 feet across and about 30 feet deep and developed within the safety fence of the

first sinkhole in the northwest corner of the lower dune. Park staff learned about the additional sinkhole

See HOLE, Page 11

Stolen SNAP benefits will be replaced

STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.

The Oregon Department of Human Services will replace Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food benefits for victims of electronic theft who have had benefits stolen from their Electrotonic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards.

Electronic theft includes card skimming, card cloning and other similar methods.

The replacements to replace SNAP benefits that were stolen electronically on or after Oct. 1, 2022, is scheduled to begin May 22.

After May 22, people in Oregon whose SNAP benefits were stolen should

request replacement benefits immediately.

People who know their SNAP benefits were stolen between Oct. 1, 2022, and May 22, 2023, must request replacement benefits by June 21, 2023. ODHS cannot replace benefits that were stolen before Oct. 1, 2022.

People who discover their SNAP benefits were

stolen after May 22 will have 30 days from the date they discover the theft to request replacement benefits.

“We know that many individuals and families in Oregon rely on the food assistance they receive through their EBT cards to meet their basic needs and

See SNAP, Page 11

JEREMY C. RUARK Country Media, Inc.

Enjoying the view along the Oregon Coast. See more Coast Moment photos at newsguard.com

SHERIFF’S TIPS OF THE WEEK

Hiking safety: plan and prepare

LINCOLN COUTY

SHERIFF’S OFFICE

Part of the beauty of Oregon is the hiking opportunities throughout the state. Hiking can be a fun and healthy activity for the whole family. But without proper planning, even a short hike could turn into a dangerous situation.

Before you hit the trails, remember these hiking safety tips.

1. Make a Gear List

Whether you’re hiking for three hours or three days, you don’t want to forget something important. Make a gear list to make sure you have everything you need. Some items to include on your gear list are:

Water

Water filtration such as a filter straw or a filtration waterbottle Rain gear and additional climate appropriate clothing

Compass Map

Extra food

First aid supplies

Cell phone or radio with backup batteries

2. Bring a Map

Bringing a map and becoming familiar with the area before you hike is so important. You should never rely solely on GPS technology especially with limited service and battery power. Always

pack a map and make sure you know how to read it before you need it.

3. Hike During the Day Whenever possible, plan to hike during the day. It is easier to get lost in the dark and the area may be home to wild animals that come out at night.

4. Know the Area Exploring new hiking trails can be exciting. Unfortunately, it also means you’re unfamiliar with the territory. Before heading out, check regional hiking information for:

Local wild animals and what to do

Local poisonous plants

Local hunting areas and seasons

Local hiking or emergency alerts

5. Check the Forecast Check the forecast while planning your hike and keep checking it until you leave. This determines what gear you need to bring and greatly impacts your safety. Hiking in hotter or colder weather have different challenges that impact your trip and your health.

If the forecast does predict rain, snow, or ice, be sure the trail you’re taking is still passable in such conditions. Consider contacting your local Parks and Recreation Department so they can direct you to real-time information.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

event.

May 20 Taft High Play

When in doubt, reschedule your hike for better weather.

6. Be Confident Not Cocky

You know what you can and can’t handle. When hiking in a group or with a more advanced friend, you may take risks you aren’t ready for. Don’t risk injury; be honest with your skill level before hitting the trail.

7. Tell Someone Before You Go

Tell someone when and where you are going and when they should expect you to be back. If that person doesn’t hear from you by a certain time, they can take the necessary action to begin a search. With Search and Rescue missions, time matters. If you don’t make it home on time, having a friend that can report your planned hiking activity and timeline can help searchers locate you.

8. Stay Together

When hiking with a large group, it’s easy to separate into groups of fast and slow hikers. Often, this happens naturally, but it isn’t always safe. Keep someone at the front that hikes at a modest pace to ensure everyone stays together.

For more information and tips, visit www.lincolncountysheriff.net

Once Upon a Mattress to be performed at 1 p.m. and at 6:30 p.m. by the Tiger Stripe Players at Taft High School 7-12 located at 3780 SE Spy Glass Ridge Dr. in Lincoln City. Performance seating opens 30 minutes before each showtime. All shows $8. With student ID $5. VIP Closing Night pre-show meet and greet the cast 5:30 p.m. $5 For more information, call 541-996-2115.

June 3

Free Family Fishing

The US Forest Service will have the Family Fishing Day at Hebo Lake, in Hebo. Fish License and parking fees are waived for this

Lincoln City Senior Center Events

Dementia Caregiver Support Group meets at 10 a.m. 1st and 3rd Thursdays.

Tai Chi 8:15 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays. No membership required. Donation to instructor suggested.

Folk Music Circle to begin meeting Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. beginning in April.

Weekly Walk on LCCC track. No charge or membership required. 10:30 a.m. Mondays. Chair Yoga 11:30 a.m. Mondays. No membership required. Donation to instructor suggested.

On Going Lincoln County Genealogical Society

Regular meeting first Saturday of each month from 10-10:45 a.m. Programs begin at 11 am. We host a kaffeeklatsch before our meeting from 9:30 am -10 a.m. All are welcome to attend. Call 503-302-8892, or visit LCGSOregon.org.

Free Meal For Veterans Homemade soup and sandwiches every third Wednesday from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the Lincoln City B.P.O Elks #1886 at 1350 SE Oar Avenue in Lincoln City. Send your event information to jruark@countrymedia.net

Jeremy C. Ruark / Country Media, Inc.

Ceremony honors fallen law enforcement officers

STAFF REPORT

Country Media, Inc.

Oregon has paid tribute to 193 fallen law enforcement officers, and their families left behind.

The Oregon Fallen Law Enforcement Officers’ Memorial Ceremony is a significant event that the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) is proud to host each year in partnership with the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Fund, Oregon Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.), Oregon Fallen Badge Foundation, and Oregon’s various statewide law enforcement associations, according to a release.

The memorial honors 193 fallen Oregon law enforce-

ment officers who have died in the line of duty since the 1860s. This includes officers from city, county, state, tribal and federal law enforcement agencies who have served as law enforcement officers, corrections officers, and parole and probation officers. The name of one fallen Oregon law enforcement officer was added to the state memorial and honored at this year’s ceremony; Sergeant Brian J. Gaunt of the Beaverton Police Department, End of Watch (EOW)10/24/21. Gaunt died as a result of contracting COVID-19 in the line of duty. Gaunt was a United States Coast Guard veteran who served 21 years with the Beaverton Police Department and had been

assigned as a patrol officer, detective, and canine handler. He is survived by his wife and three children.

The DPSST hosted the 2023 Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony Tuesday, May 2 during a ceremony attended by Governor Tina Kotek. The event took place outdoors, at the state memorial located at the Oregon Public Safety Academy in Salem.

The Oregon memorial is held ahead of National Police Week events in Washington, D.C. so that family members and co-workers can attend both memorial ceremonies. More than 23,000 officers who have died in the line of duty are honored on the national memorial.

The Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Fund

The effort has raised funds to build the state memorial more than 20 years ago and hosts the annual ceremony.

For more information about the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial Fund and the statewide license plate that is available to honor fallen law enforcement officers and firefighters, visit: www. oregon.gov/dpsst/BD/MFB/ Pages/Oregon-Law-Enforcement-Memorial-Trust-Fund.

aspx For more information about the Oregon Law Enforcement Memorial, visit: www.oregon.gov/dpsst/Me -

POLICE BLOTTER

The police blotter relates to the public record of incidents as reported by law enforcement agencies.

Oregon State Police

April 21

10:30 a.m.

Traffic crash reported at milepost 9 on Highway 20. A gray Toyota Scion collided with the passenger side of a black Mercedes van east of Toledo. The Mercedes suffered minor damage. The driver of the Scion continued eastbound.

3 p.m.

A subject was reportedly driving recklessly, westbound on US Highway 20 from milepost 30. Several witnesses reported the subject driving a maroon Toyota Tundra, passing on double yellow lines, passing on corners and tailgating. Subject was stopped and cited and released for reckless driving.

April 22

12:13 a.m.

A Black SUV was traveling south on Highway 101 near milepost 147 when radar checked the SUV at 78mph in a 55 mph. Vehicle was found in the Ona beach State Park where the vehicle had driven through grass and hit a tree. The vehicle appeared to be ditched. Driver was located and arrested. Vehicle was towed by coast towing.

2:04 p.m.

Traffic crash reported. Unit 1, a red Nissan Red Rogue collided with rear

end of unit 2 black Hyundai when vehicles in front of them stopped to turn left near milepost 161 of US Highway 101. No injuries were reported. Driver of unit 1 was issued a citation for following too closely. Unit 1 driver arranged for a tow truck. Unit 2 was driven from the scene.

5 p.m.

A single vehicle crash occurred. Upon arriving, the roadway evidence and strong odor of alcohol coming from the driver suggested the driver was impaired. The driver originally refused medical treatment, but after being asked to perform field sobriety tests felt that it would be best to go to the hospital. The driver consented to a blood draw but then refused as the Phlebotomist was preparing to draw his blood. A warrant was applied for and obtained, and a sample of the driver’s blood was taken, and the original hospital sample was seized. The driver was transported to the Lincoln County Jail, where he was lodged. The driver’s dog was lodged at the Lincoln County Animal Shelter. Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office, North Lincoln Fire, Pacific West Ambulance, and ODOT assisted on scene. The vehicle was towed by Car Care Tow Pro out of Lincoln City.

April 24

11:30 a.m.

Tow Fisherman on the FV Das Bug was observed removing approximately 2,000 lbs of dead crab from their vessel without weighing and recording it on a fish ticket.

2:53 p.m.

Traffic crash reported on Highway 101 at mile post 165. A two vehicle non-injury crash occurred when the driv-

morials/LawEnforcement/ Pages/default.aspx

For more information about National Police Week, visit: www.lnkd.in/g8U4r9nY

er of a white Toyota Highland backed into a white Honda Accord while attempting to avoid a RV that was blocking the road. Both vehicles sustained minor damage and were driven from the scene. The driver of the Toyota was issued a warning for illegal backing.

5:35 p.m.

Traffic crash report at mile post 122 on Highway 101. Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle non-injury crash. The driver of a silver Oldsmobile sedan locked up their brakes after traffic came to a sudden stop. The vehicle spun and went off the right side of the roadway and collided with a dirt embankment. The vehicle was tagged, and the driver was advised they had 24 hours to remove the vehicle.

11:23 p.m.

Traffic crash reported at mile post 161 on Highway 101. A call of a single vehicle crash with the vehicle being in a ditch came in. Upon arriving, the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle exhibited signs of impairment. The driver consented to performing field sobriety tests and performed poorly. The driver was taken into custody and transported to the Lincoln County Jail, where he provided a breath sample of .17% BAC. The driver was lodged in jail for DUII.

April 26

2:18 p.m.

A green Ford Explorer was stopped at mile post 114 on Highway 101 for registration sticker expired. The driver was found to be DWS. The driver was issued a citation for registration sticker expiredand DWS. The car was towed by Car Care Tow Prow.

Courtesy photo from DPSST

The memorial honors 193 fallen Oregon law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty since the 1860s.

OBITUARIES

Jack and Marybelle Garrison

On Feb. 8, 2023, Jack Clay Garrison passed away. On March 24, 2023 Marybelle Garrison joined her husband of 72 years. Jack grew up in Portland and graduated from Benson Tech in 1947. He moved to Delake and worked in the woods with his father.

Marybelle spent her early years in Eugene, moving to Delake with her family where she attended fifth grade at Delake School. She went on to graduate from Taft High School in 1949. Also in 1949, she was crowned Queen of the Devils Lake Regatta.

Marybelle Allum, daughter of Randolph Romaine Allum Sr. and Bertha Josephine White was born on Sept. 2, 1931 in Eugene, Oregon. She married Jack Clay Garrison, son of Robert Clay Garrison and Effie Euphemia MacLean, on July 1, 1950 at the Chapel by the Sea Church in Nelscott. Jack was born March 18, 1929 in Portland.

Together they started Jack Garrison’s Mobil Service in Delake in 1950, later obtaining a fuel oil business which they ran together for 39 years. Jack was a member of the Jaycee’s and volunteer fire department, (his picture along with other

T.N.D. members back then, appears above a milk section in current day Lincoln City Safeway).

Jack and Maybelle enjoyed raising two very active and involved children Leanna and Larry in Lincoln City. In 1988, Jack and Marybelle were named couple of the year for Lincoln City.

Nov. 1, 1989 they sold the service and fuel oil business, moved first to Portland, then to Palm Springs where they had a vacation condo.

In Palm Springs, not being ones to sit around, they began volunteering with the Palm Springs Pioneer Museum. A few years later they volunteered with Sonny Bono when he first started the Palm Springs Film Festival. In 1995 Marybelle was named MVP for the Palm Springs Film Festival and later became known as “The Boss Lady” being the Office Manager.

Together they had great stories of their volunteer escapades. One favorite, Jack was to deliver an invitation and fruit basket to President and Mrs. Gerald Ford.

When Jack got to the gate it was open for another delivery person, so Jack went right in. The other deliver guy said “you better get out of here before the Secret Service knows you’re here”. So he put the basket down and left. Later their volunteer efforts led them to the Boston Film Festival.

Retiring from Film Festivals, and living on a golf course, Marybelle learned to play golf and she and Jack played most every morning becoming known as the “Dawn Patrol”.

Their great granddaughter Kaysa Clay Garrison and daughter Leanna Garrison preceded them in death.

Surviving family are son Larry Clay and his wife Cindy of Lincoln City, grandson Kenneth Clay (KC) and his partner Amber Chadwell of (NC), granddaughter Kenda Huddleston and her husband Aaron of Lincoln City, grandson Kolby Jack of Tigard, great granddaughter Haylie Ann Huddleston of Lincoln City, great grandson’s Jaxon Clay Garrison of Lincoln City and Jace Walker Garrison of Tigard.

Researchers given $5M to accelerate Oregon robot research

STEVE LUNDEBERG News Guard Guest Article

Researchers at Oregon State University are part of a $5 million National Science Foundation effort to accelerate robotics research by making standardized humanoid robots available to the scientific community.

Bill Smart and Naomi Fitter, who study human-robot interaction in the OSU College of Engineering, will lead the project, part of the NSF’s Computer and Information Science and Engineering Community Research Infrastructure program.

The NSF’s goal for the program is to drive discovery and learning in computing and communication foundations, computer and network systems, and information and intelligent systems.

The Oregon State investigators will partner with researchers at the University of Pennsylvania’s GRASP Laboratory and a Los Angeles-based software company, Semio, that specializes in robotics applications.

The project involves building and distributing 50 Quori robots to serve as a standardized hardware and software platform for researchers. Quori robots have an expressive face, gesturing arms and a bowing spine and are designed for experimentation in the lab and also

“in the wild,” i.e. real-world types of settings.

“A big hurdle in robotics research has been the lack of a common robot to work with,” Smart said. “It’s tough to compare results and replicate and build on each other’s work when everyone is using a different type of robot. Robots come in many shapes and sizes, with different types of sensors and varying capabilities.”

Oregon State’s primary contributions to the project will be setting up and maintaining a network of resources surrounding the use of the Quori robot and helping to beta test the robot and the resources.

“The team will build on the success of an earlier NSF-funded project by the University of Pennsylvania, Semio and the University of Southern California that designed, built and tested 10 prototype Quori robots and awarded them to research teams,” Fitter said.

Fitter and Smart said the project team will connect students and researchers using Quori through online collaboration tools, events and opportunities to work together – building a community of roboticists that can learn from one another and advance the pace of research.

“Part of the focus is bringing new teams into the community and helping them

get up to speed by pairing them with more experienced researchers,” Smart added. “This will increase the diversity of people involved in robotics research in the United States and accelerate progress, especially in the field of human-robot interaction.”

Steve Lundeberg is a researcher and writer for Oregon State University Relations and Marketing. He may be reached at steve. lundeberg@oregonstate.edu

Fatal traffic crash on Highway 101

STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.

One person was killed and two people hospitalized following a traffic crash along Highway 101 in Tillamook County.

On Sunday, May 7, at about 4:26 p.m. the Oregon State Police (OSP) responded to the two-vehicle crash on Highway 101, near milepost 63, in Tillamook County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a white Honda sedan, operated by 21-year-old Hunter Baltzell, of Aberdeen, Washington was southbound on Highway 101 when the operator attempted to turn east onto Alderbrook Loop Road, according to OSP.

A silver Jeep Liberty, operated by 20-year-old Angel Prado Pozo of Portland, was traveling northbound on Highway 101 when the Hon-

Vehicle vs Pole

Jeremy

/

Media, Net Highway 101 was shut down for six hours during the crash investigation.

da turned in front of it and the Jeep struck the passenger side door of the Honda.

The operator of the Honda, Baltzell, was transported to the hospital for medical treatment. A passenger, 21-yearold Alexa Williamnsen of Aberdeen, WA was declared deceased at the scene.

off, leaving it leaning against power lines above. The cause of the crash was not immediately available.

The operator of the Jeep, Pozo, was transported to the hospital for minor injuries.

The highway was impacted for six hours during the course of the on-scene investigation. Tillamook Fire and the Oregon Department of Transportation assisted OSP at the crash site.

Courtesy photo from OSU Bill Smart and Naomi Fitter, who study human-robot interaction in the OSU College of Engineering, will lead the project.

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News & Views

More direct access to county services needed

decided to build a new shelter in Waldport.

Sheriff Landers was quoted in a piece in the News Guard May 9 and said, “After years of research, planning and hard work the new Animal Shelter building will expand and improve the services that are currently to our communities and animals.”

shouldn’t have to be reminded that the Lincoln City area has the largest population, and body of voters, in the county.

If I recall, and this 100-year-old memory isn’t what it used to be, the last by public project here was the Oregon Coast Community College north county campus.

to use the animal shelter. We might as well use the one in McMinnville, its shorter distance, and I bet the service is a helluva lot better.

It has been my experience that the sheriff has been remiss in providing animal control services in the north, particularly Rose Lodge, Panther Creek and Echo Mountain.

coast correspondent for the Salem Statesman Journal. I remember this same problem of animal control being discussed in the 1980s and ‘90s. Things sure haven’t changed much

Frank King

The selection process is a slap in the face to residents in north Lincoln County. Once again the county political power structure, government, finance, and real estate, have ignored the north. They

We are the ugly step children in the county’s political structure. The pretty nearby Newport kids get all of the attention, and money. What does this mean for us. We will have to drive 45 miles, 90 miles round trip,

I have chickens, a huge pig, and goats that have wandering through my neighborhood today. And no animal control officer in sight.

I have lived in Lincoln County for 37 years. I was the

Maybe it’s time for a county-wide ballot measure that would insure that the areas far away from Newport get their share of the pie. We need more direct access to county services, not less.

Frank King is a resident of Lincoln City.

My story: The “why” I do the work I do

BECKY HULTBERG News Guard Guest Column

I’ve always found inspiration in the stories of people drawn to do the difficult work of health care. My own journey, while circuitous, was shaped by important events in my life.

I grew up in the small town of Kenai, Alaska.

As an attorney who worked in utility law, my dad frequently talked to us around the dinner table about the impact of government in people’s lives. I grew to understand the importance of healthy partnerships between the public and private sector.

versations seeded in me a broader interest in public policy, and over time I gravitated toward a career in government. I worked as the press secretary for one governor and served in the cabinet of another as the commissioner of Alaska’s Department of Administration. Between those two roles I also worked for a hospital system, where I began to better understand the complexities of health care and the vital role hospitals play in the communities they serve.

Becky Hultberg

Those dinner table con-

But ultimately it was a family health crisis that called me to do this work.

In 2009, my husband had open heart surgery, an incredibly stressful experience for my young family. My complete focus was on his condition, as the surgical team did the complicated work

of replacing his aortic valve and repairing an aortic aneurysm. The procedure was successful, and I was filled with gratitude and admiration for the skill and compassion of the surgical team and the nurses, techs, and physician assistants who provided his hospital care. If you’ve been through a similar experience with a friend or loved one, you know how difficult it is to put this person, who is so important to you, in the hands of a medical team. But they walked us through, as they have so many other patients and families. The experience changed my life in a profound way. It gave me clarity of purpose. It was the moment I knew I wanted to spend my career working side by side with hospitals to advocate for access to care for patients.

When your loved one is in a hospital bed, there is nothing more important than the skill and resources of the hospital team caring for them.

My work for the Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems is driven by a mission to ensure we have healthy hospitals for generations to come. My team and I do this work on behalf of patients, our friends, our families, and neighbors. We do this work so when someone needs a hospital, as my husband did, they will have access to high quality, compassionate care. My husband is doing well. We’ve moved to a state we have come to love, and he has another care team that he trusts just as much. They, too, are skilled and compassionate caregivers, and they inspire my to do the work of leading the association and our mem-

bers together to ensure access to the care our communities deserve.

It’s gratifying to reflect on how those childhood conversations with my dad around the dinner table are shaping my work today. As the association, we have a great team of people who work every day to bring together public and private sector partners to create good policy and ensure that vital health care services are available now and for generations to come.

We support hospitals so that they can support you, and I’m proud to play a leading role in that effort.

Becky Hultberg is the President and CEO of the Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems (OAHHS). She may be reached at 503-636-2204

$500M proposed to establish child care centers

JEREMY

C. RUARK Country Media, Inc

A new effort at the U.S. Congress is designed to help working families access affordable housing and child care.

The Build Housing with Care Act would invest $500 million to construct child care centers in affordable housing buildings and cover the costs of retrofitting to help family child care providers operate in housing developments.

Priority will be given to projects that are located in child care deserts or rural

communities, including qualified Head Start providers and providers primarily serving low-income children.

The legislation has been announced by Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) and Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR).

“Investing in children is one of the best investments we can make,” Bonamici said. “Families in Oregon and across the country are struggling to afford child care and put a roof over their heads. We can help address both of these critical needs by investing in child care centers and home-based providers locat-

ed in affordable housing to make it easier for families to find care where they live. I’ve seen how this model can work in Oregon, and I am pleased to be working with Senator Wyden to make it available to more communities across the country.”

“Right now families in Oregon and across the country are juggling impossible situations,” Wyden said. “They want and need to work to keep a roof over their heads and food on the table, but child care just isn’t affordable – and some communities don’t even have child

care options nearby. Taking care of your family shouldn’t be this hard. I am all in with Congresswoman Bonamici to help close the child care gap and help more families access the care they need.”

It is estimated that funding from the Build Housing with Care Act could build more than 120 new co-located child care centers, supporting the development of critical care supply in connection with affordable housing.

A report from the Low Income Investment Fund, Including Family Child Care in Affordable Housing, high-

lights the many policy opportunities and benefits of co-location as “an opportunity to respond to severe housing and child care shortages simultaneously.”

“The Low Income Investment Fund (LIIF) is proud to support Congresswoman Bonamici’s bill Building Housing with Care Act of 2023,” Low Income Investment Fund President Kim Latimer-Nelligan said. “This unique grant program addresses two challenges families and communities face

See CHILD CARE, Page 12

State follows feds in lifting COVID response measures

STAFF REPORT

Country Media, Inc.

In alignment with the federal COVID-19 public health emergency ending May 11, state health officials announced the lifting of health-protective measures that helped reduce COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations and deaths, and expanded access to services during the pandemic.

The changes affect a wide range of programs and services. Some changes are effective May 11, and others will take effect in the coming weeks. Other changes put in place during the COVID-19 emergency will continue after the end of the federal emergency.

“These changes are an acknowledgement of the progress we’ve made over the last three-plus years,” said Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., health officer and state epi-

demiologist at OHA. “However, we know COVID-19 will remain a part of our lives for years to come, so we need to continue taking steps that prevent its spread, such as staying up to date with vaccinations. My thoughts go out to those sick with COVID-19, mourning a loved one, or still suffering with symptoms following their acute infection.”

Highlights of the changes resulting from the ending of the federal public health emergency are as follows:

Vaccination requirements

Effective Thursday (May 11), workers in health care settings will no longer be required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 under state rules, OHA announced today. A similar vaccination requirement for teachers and school staff in private and public education settings will lift June 17, the end of the last week of school, to support consistency in student in-

struction through this school year.

Exposure, isolation guidance

A five-day period of isolation for those infected with COVID-19 also will no longer be recommended for the general population, including people in K-12 education settings. Oregon public health officials believe widespread population immunity due to vaccination and repeated infections means many COVID-19 infections are now likely asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic, and the five-day isolation period is doing little to reduce transmission.

Instead, officials say, the recommendation for the general population will be to stay

home until fever free for 24 hours and symptoms are improving; avoid contact with individuals at increased risk for severe disease, including older adults and those with underlying medical conditions; and consider masking for 10 days.

School testing

Diagnostic testing resources for students and staff with symptoms or exposure to COVID-19 in schools will remain available through July 31, 2024. iHealth selftests will remain available for K-12 schools to request and distribute to their school communities until current stock is depleted. Weekly opt-in “screening” testing for K-12 students and staff without COVID-19 symptoms will

end July 31 as funding for the effort wraps up.

The endings of the vaccination, isolation and some testing measures are among a spate of impending changes over the coming weeks as Oregon, and the nation, continue the long, careful transition out of the pandemic. A number of “flexibilities” put in place during the pandemic will remain in effect.

The following are among the COVID-era activities and requirements that will continue after May 11:

An extension of a 90-day “reasonable opportunity period” for non-citizens to verify citizenship or immigration status to 180 days so they can enroll in Oregon Health Plan (OHP).

A requirement that OHP providers, including coordinated care organizations, continue to cover COVID-19 vaccinations and treatment without cost sharing, and that commercial health insurers cover vaccinations without cost sharing. In Oregon, vaccinations are covered no matter where someone gets a shot. Oregonians should contact their health care provider about where they can get vaccinated.

A requirement that Oregon health care providers be reimbursed for language interpreter services (spoken or signed) provided during an office visit.

A requirement that OHP providers offer access to telehealth services.

Apts Furnished 802 Sea Rest Motel 1249 NW 15th St. (541) 992-6108 Furnished

Pets, No Smoking

non refundable deposit

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mo -1 person RV Space for Rent 819

RV space for rent at 260 SE Oar, Lincoln City. Monthly rent is $495. Rent includes water, sewer and garbage. Please call 503-304-7017.

Public Notices 999

NG23-482 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF LINCOLN ALLY BANK, Plaintiff, vs. LISA MARIE GRENZ Defendants. No. 22CV44091 CIVIL SUM-

MONS FIRST DATE OF PUBLICATION: Tuesday, May 16, 2023 TO THE DE-

FENDANTS: Lisa Marie

Grenz NOTICE TO DE-

FENDANT: READ THESE

PAPERS CAREFULLY! A lawsuit has been started against you in the aboveentitled Court by Ally Bank,

Plaintiff. Plaintiff’s claim is stated in the written Complaint, a copy of which is on file at the Lincoln County Courthouse. You must “appear” in this case or the other side will win automatically. To “appear” you must file with the court a legal paper called a “motion” or “answer.” The “motion” or “answer” must be given to the court clerk or administrator within 30 days along with the required filing fee. It must be in proper form and have proof of service on the plaintiff’s attorney or, if the plaintiff does not have an attorney, proof of service on the plaintiff. The “motion” or “answer” (or “reply”) must be given to the court clerk or administrator within 30 days of the date of first publication specified herein along with the required filing fee. The date of first publication of the summons is May 16, 2023. If you have questions, you should see an attorney immediately. If you need help in finding an attorney, you may contact the Oregon State Bar’s Lawyer Referral Service online at www.oregonstatebar.org or by calling (503) 684-3763 (in the Portland metropolitan area) or tollfree elsewhere in Oregon at (800) 452-7636. Attorneys for Plaintiff, JANEWAY LAW FIRM, LLC. James A. Craft #090146 [jcraft@ janewaylaw.com] 1499 SE Tech Center Place, Suite 255, Vancouver, WA 98683 (360) 260-2253; Fax (360) 260-2285.

NG23-483 LINCOLN COUNTY INVITATION TO BID FOR PUBLIC

TO SELECT LINCOLN COUNTY ROADS. Owner’s Contact: Andrew J. Blair, P.E. Phone: (541) 574- 1212, ablair@ co.lincoln.or.us. Public Notice. Lincoln County is soliciting bids for the application of longitudinal pavement markings to select Lincoln County Roads: · Fog LineWhite - 304.26 miles · Center Line - Yellow - 175.44 miles The roads are located within Lincoln County, Oregon. Estimated Proj-

ect cost range is $50,000 - $100,000. Contract to be completed by August 20, 2023. Anticipated Notice to Proceed date is not prior to July 7th, 2023. Bid documents may be obtained at the office of Lincoln County Road Department, 880 NE 7th Street, Newport, Oregon 97365 (ph: 541265-5747). The Bid Package will be posted on the County’s web site at http:// www.co.lincoln.or.us/341/ Public-Works. Bidders may also obtain a Bid Package at the various Oregon Plan Centers. PLEASE NOTE: Only those bidders who request to be added to the County’s Plan Holders list will be directly notified of addendums or clarifications that might be issued. Addendums and clarifications will be posted to the County’s web site (http:// www.co.lincoln.or.us/341/ Public-Works) and the Plan Centers will be notified. It is the Bidders sole responsibility to incorporate all addendums into the final submitted bid. Signed copies of the addendums and clarifications must be attached to the bid submittal at the time of bid opening. Failure to include all posted addendums or clarifications will be cause to reject the bid. Bids must be received at Lincoln County Public Works, 880 NE 7th Street, Newport, Oregon 97365, by bid closing 2:00 p.m. on May 24th, 2023. Mailing address: 880 NE 7TH STREET, NEWPORT, OREGON 97365. Submit bids in a sealed envelope marked, “APPLICATION OF LONGITUDINAL PAVEMENT MARKINGS TO SELECT LINCOLN COUNTY ROADS. Bid Form - Bid Closing May 24th at 2:00 p.m.” Pursuant to ORS 279C.370 bidders are required to disclose information about certain first-tier subcontractors, either in the bid submission envelope or within two (2) working hours after bid closing. The bidder must comply as applicable with ORS 279C.800 through ORS279C.870 or 40 USC 276a. Each bidder must complete the Residency Statement included in the Bid Form. Bidders shall be currently registered with the Construction Contractors Board (CCB), holding the proper registration for the work contemplated herein,

at the time of submittal. All Subcontractors participating in the project shall be similarly registered with the CCB at the time they propose to engage in subcontract work. The CCB registration requirements apply to all public works contracts unless superseded by federal law. Bids will be opened and publicly read at Lincoln County Public Works, 880 NE 7th Street, Newport, Oregon 97365 at 2:00 P.M. on May 24th, 2023. The Board of Commissioners reserves the right to reject any bid not in conformity with the bid requirements, or the right to reject all bids if it is in the best interest of Lincoln County.

NG23-477 A public meeting of the Budget Committee of the Salishan Sanitary District, County of Lincoln, State of Oregon, to discuss the budget for the fiscal year July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024 will be held in the conference room at Salishan Leaseholders, 100 Salishan Drive or by videoconference on Tuesday, May 23 2022, beginning at 3 p.m. The purpose of this meeting is to receive the budget message and to receive comment from the public on the budget. The First Notice of the meeting was published on May 9, 2022.

NG23-481 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR LINCOLN COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE HAL DENNIS FOWLER, Deceased. Case No. 23PB03104 NOTICE IS HERBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed personal representative. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present them, with vouchers attached, to the Stephen A. Lovejoy, Attorney for Personal Representative 3132 NE Loop Drive, Otis, Oregon 97368, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice, or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings may obtain additional information from the records of the court,

the personal representative, or the attorney for the personal representative, Stephen A. Lovejoy. Dated and first published this 9th day of May 2023. Barbara McFall Fowler, Personal Representative. Stephen A. Lovejoy Attorney at Law, 3132 NE Loop Drive, Otis, Oregon 97368, 541-4181287.

NG23-479 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF LINCOLN PROBATE DEPARTMENT IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LLOYD D. ANKENY, DECEASED. CASE NUMBER: 23PB02447. NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Jane A. Roche has been appointed Personal Representative. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present them, with vouchers attached, to the Personal Representative, c/o Jeffrey G. Moore, Saalfeld Griggs PC, 250 Church St. SE, Suite 200, PO Box 470, Salem, OR 97308- 0470, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice, or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings may obtain additional information from the records of the Court, the Personal Representative, or the Lawyers for the Personal Representative. Dated and first published on May 9, 2023. Jeffrey G. Moore, OSB #982973, Attorney for Personal Representative, Saalfeld Griggs PC, PO Box 470, Salem, OR 97308-0470. Ph: (503) 3991070, Fax: (503) 371-2927, Email: jmoore@sglaw.com.

NG23-478 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF OREGON IN AND FOR LINCOLN COUNTY Probate Department IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: DORIS IRENE SPEYER, Deceased. No. 22PB10534 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the Estate of Doris Irene Speyer. All per-

sons having claims against the Estate are required to present them, with vouchers attached, to the undersigned Personal Representative at Landerholm, P.S., PO Box 1086, Vancouver, WA 98666-1086, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice, or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings may obtain additional information from the records of the Court, the Personal Representative, or the Attorneys for the Personal Representative, Landerholm, P.S. DATED OF FIRST PUBLICATION: May 9, 2023. Personal Representative Karen Speyer 1620 NE 92nd Ave. Vancouver, WA 98664 (360) 281-2240. Attorneys for Personal Representative Gregory J. Hall, OSB #923243 Landerholm, P.S. PO Box 1086 Vancouver, WA 98666- 1086 (360) 696-3312 (360) 696-2122 (Facsimile) greg.hall@landerholm.com.

NG23-472 In the Circuit Court of the State of Oregon for the County of Lincoln In the Matter of the Estate of Jeri L. Haley, Deceased No. 23PB03106 - Probate NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the estate of the above- named decedent. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present such claims within four months after the date of first publication of this notice to Cheryl Jo Johansen, c/o Heltzel Williams PC, Attn: Garret Ramsay, P.O. Box 1048, Salem, OR 97308, or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceeding may obtain additional information from the records of the court, the Personal Representative, or the attorneys for the Personal Representative. Dated and first published May 2, 2023. Cheryl Jo Johansen, Personal Representative. Heltzel Williams PC, Garret Ramsay, OSB #224741, P.O. Box 1048, Salem, OR 97308-1048, Attorneys for Personal Representative.

Depoe Bay is inviting citizens and visitors to celebrate the city

STAFF REPORT

Country Media, Inc.

Fifty years ago, the citizens of Depoe Bay voted to incorporate, and Oregon’s smallest coastal seaport town became the state’s newest incorporated city.

According to a story in the Salem Capitol Journal from May 23, 1973, Depoe Bay residents voted by a tidal-wave 121-vote margin at the Tuesday election. The story goes on to say 164 of the town’s approximately 300 registered voters favored

incorporation. Fifty-three opposed it.

The newly incorporated city, with a population of 460 and an assessed valuation of $8 million at that time, encompassed land from Boiler Bay State Park on the north to the Maling Estate on the south and included the six square acre Depoe Bay harbor. Proponents emphasized the necessity of incorporating to give residents the opportunity to zone and control their town and harbor ecologically and architecturally to preserve Depoe Bay as a picturesque,

Contributed photo

Local nonprofits to share $50,000

STAFF REPORT

Country Media, Inc.

Lincoln City will award $50,000 to several nonprofits during a May 17 presentation at city hall.

The City of Lincoln City will be distributing a total of $50,000 in checks to local non-profit agencies at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, May 17.

The following recipients will receive funds:

Angels Anonymous

$5,000

Business for Excellence in Youth $5,000

Central Coast Humane Society $5,000

Coastal Support Services

$5,000

Coast Cheer Athletics

$2,250

Episcopal Church St.

James Santiago $5,000

Lincoln City Chamber of Commerce $5,000

Lincoln City Cultural Center $5,000

Lincoln City Swim Club

$2,250 My Sisters’ Place $5,000

North Lincoln CERT$ 500

Oceana Family Literacy

$5,000

The City receives funding requests from local non-profits each year as part of its budget preparation process. Once the City Council has approved the budget, a Committee of City Councilors reviewed the applications for funding and made recommendations to the full City Council as to which agencies should receive funds.

“I am grateful that our city budget has allocated $50,000 for grants to non-profit agencies,” Mayor Susan Wahlke said. “These nonprofits provide services to our community beyond the scope of what our city can do. This year we have been able to award grants to twelve local non-profits, which I hope will assist them in their missions.”

Members of the public and the media are welcome to attend the May 17 presentation ceremony in the City Council Chambers, Lincoln City Hall, 801 SW Highway 101.

nautical city by the sea.

To celebrate this historic event, city leaders and staff are coordinating a fun-filled afternoon of live entertainment, delicious food, and more, May 20. There will be an emcee at the event to encourage locals to share stories and photos. A video presentation will be played showing hundreds of historic photos. Several members of the DePoe family, from who the town was named after to honor Chief Charlie DePoe. Available for purchase will be delicious

food by Squatchsami and Grubs On and a beer garden by The Horn Public House and Brewery. For the kids, and young at heart, Neighbors For Kids will have activities such as face painting and a Lego contest.

The event is free and open to the public. It will be held at the Depoe Bay City Park at the end of Shell Avenue down by the boat launch ramp area of the World’s Smallest Navigable Harbor.

The celebration is open from noon – 4 p.m., Saturday, May 20 at Depoe Bay.

Tourism surging in Oregon, boosting business profits

STAFF REPORT

Country Media, Inc.

Lincoln City’s annual Kite Festivals and the city’s ocean views continue to draw visitors to the region and the latest report about tourism in Oregon and along the Oregon Coast shows significant growth.

According to the Oregon Travel Commission, doing business as Travel Oregon, the state’s travel economy reached new highs across most categories in 2022, powering local communities and connections across the state.

By the numbers impact

Travel serves as a catalyst for a productive economy while supporting the success of other industries. Statewide, the Oregon tourism industry experienced an increase in direct travel spending by 26.5% year-over-year, from $10.9 billion to $13.9 billion.

The latest economic impact report released by Travel Oregon highlights that the state and regional tourism industry saw continued demand for overnight accommodations, which led to large gains in visitor spending. This increased spending, coupled with inflation and a tight labor market, contributed to an increase in employee earnings as well, with both having a cumulative effect

on increased tax revenue that benefits local communities.

Approximately 16,450 travel jobs were created in Oregon in 2022; overall, the industry is comprised of 117,360 direct jobs, growing by 16.3% year-over-year. The tax revenue analysis found that taxes from travel activity increased by 24.1%, or $181 million, compared to 2021, according to Travel Oregon. Taxes collected by local governments rose by 21.2%, or $45 million, while state taxes increased by the same percentage, or $66 million. Travel earnings — the amount of money earned by employees— also increased by 23.9% for a total of $821 million during 2022.

“Tourism is critical to the

strength of Oregon’s economy and essential to the growth of other industries across the state,” Travel Oregon CEO Todd Davidson said. “Together, Travel Oregon and the state’s seven regions are dedicated to driving positive economic impacts for the people and communities that call Oregon home while nurturing destinations throughout the state, stewarding the natural environment, and celebrating the diversity of Oregon’s communities and cultures. Our collective efforts are creating a stronger, more equitable, and future-ready Oregon economy where all visitors feel safe, respected and inspired as they travel throughout our beautiful state.”

Coast gains

The Oregon Coast enjoyed significant economic gains in 2022,” according to Travel Oregon. Visitor spending increased by 24% to $2.4 billion. Employment climbed 16.4% from 2021 to 2022 to employ 25,290 workers. Earnings increased by 24% to reach a total of $874.5 million while tax revenue jumped 14.7% from $101 million in 2021 to $116 million in 2022.

“It’s our privilege to welcome travelers to experience all the magic the Oregon Coast has to offer,” Oregon Coast Visitors Association (OCVA) Executive Director Marcus Hinz said. “Our goal is that the tourism industry helps support and strengthen coastal communities. Visitor spending contributes to economic development, and visitor stewardship preserves and protects coastal ecosystems and natural resources. Through proactive destination management strategies, travel and tourism can help the Oregon Coast truly become a coastal utopia for all.” Travel is an economic powerhouse that drives the opportunity to uplift communities up and down the Oregon Coast, according to the release from OCVA, which works with coastal communities to align partnerships, destination development projects, and destination marketing with the vision of creating “a coastal utopia for all.”

Posting Date May 1, 2023

1. GEOGRAPHY: How many U.S. states border Canada?

2. THEATER: The musical “My Fair Lady” is based on which play?

3. SCIENCE: Who was the first person to win Nobel prizes in two different sciences?

4. MOVIES: Which 1997 movie featured a character named Jack Dawson?

5. TELEVISION: What is the name of Ross’s pet monkey in “Friends”?

6. LANGUAGE: How many languages exist worldwide?

7. FOOD & DRINK: Which country produces Manchego cheese?

8. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: How many track and field events are in a decathlon?

9. U.S. PRESIDENTS: Which president had the most children?

10. MUSIC: What is the title of Britney Spears’ first album? © 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.

Jeremy C. Ruark / Country Media, Inc.

The annual fall and summer kite flying competitions at the D River Wayside are a popular tourist attraction in Lincoln City.

Plant Sale set for May 20

SUBMITTED

Annual The Lincoln County Master GardenerAssociation is once again holding its Annual Plant Sale. It takes place on from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 20 in the newly-remodeled 4-H barn on the Lincoln County Fairgrounds, 633 NE 3rd Street in Newport.

More than 25 varieties of tomatoes, vegetable starts, herbs, native plants and perennials will be offered. All of the plants are grown locally from seed, cuttings, digging and dividing, or bare root

starts. These plants are ready for our unique coastal environment.

Stop by the help desk for gardening questions or Master Gardener information. A representative from the Oregon Bee Atlas will be available to educate everyone on the 740 different bees that live in Oregon. The Garage Sale section will have a collection of gardening books, as well as tools, pots, floating row cover and many other garden-related items. A tool sharpening service. is being offered, too.

Taft students to perform ‘Once Upon a Mattress’

SUBMITTED

The Tiger Stripe Players are scheduled to perform Once Upon a Mattress at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. May 20 at Taft 7-12 High School, at 3780 SE Spy Glass Ridge Dr. in Lincoln City. When sophomore Kyle Jackson thinks about his role as “Sir Harry” in the production, he said he appreciates what being part of this co-

medic and musical version of The Princess and the Pea has brought him, as well as how that will pay off for the audience.

“I’ve realized my potential for singing in higher ranges,” he said. “I didn’t really know I could sing songs like that. I think those songs, especially the ones with comedic aspects and a lot of physical humor are ones people will like.”

The play’s co-director Chloe Migliaccio said she also thinks people are going to really like the show’s creative take on The Princess and the Pea and that the production will connect to people of all ages.

“With musical numbers that are fun and upbeat, I hope there will be lots of toes tapping in the audience,” she said.

Once Upon a Mattress is

scheduled to be performed at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. May 20 at Taft High School 7-12, located at 3780 SE Spy Glass Ridge Dr. in Lincoln City. Performance seating opens 30 minutes before each showtime. Cost is $8, $5 with student ID. VIP Closing Night pre-show meet and greet the cast 5:30 p.m. May 20. $5. For more information, call 541-996-2115.

Courtesy photo

The Plant Sale will be at the 4-H county fairgrounds.

Courtesy photo

Left to right, Princess Winnifred (Celia Fulfer), Lady Larken (Hannah Stolp), Prince Dauntless (Emery Bingham), Sir Harry (Kyle Jackson), and Queen Aggravain (Nola Longueira).

Wildfires

‘Have a plan,’ preparedness urged for wildfire season

WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.

Gov. Tina Kotek is urging Oregonians to be prepared for the approaching wildfire season. “No surprise, but wildfires will forever impact our region and much of our country,” Kotek said. “The threats will continue to grow as we grapple with hotter, dryer conditions due to climate change. But we have choices, and how we prepare and respond to the situations.”

During a media briefing May 9, Kotek detailed several key points that experts have shared with her about the challenges Oregon faces this fire season.

Effective responses

Kotek discussed creating fire-adaptive communities and developing safer and more effective responses to support fire personnel.

Drought intensity across the state is less than it was at this time last year. While Kotek said that many regions have benefited from high volumes of spring rain and strong snowpack, some areas are affected by persistent se-

vere drought.

The large amounts of winter moisture and precipitation in May and June will likely cause a “delayed wildfire season,” Kotek said. Despite the late onset of wildfire season, Kotek emphasized the need for preparedness.

“Wildfire prevention efforts, including public information campaigns, early fire detection, leveraging aviation and ground assets for early deployment for a safe and aggressive initial attack, are all key to our successes this year,” Kotek said.

Fire indixes indicate that there will be an above-average fire season in Eastern Oregon, Kotek said. Deploying to these remote areas will be a challenge for Oregon’s response system. Kotek outlined the challenges ahead: Capacity to respond in rural areas that rely on volunteer firefighters. Competition for natural resources as fire seasons become more complex.

Oregon will continue to rely on the fire mutual aid system, which deploys local fire departments across the state to protect communities, Kotek said.

Using the lessons from past fire seasons, Kotek said that agencies have become better at technological efficiency, expanding the monitoring network, localized forecasting, streamlined smoke coordination calls, and simplified templates for air quality advisory.

“Leveraging our statewide wildfire coordination system, utilizing technology and advanced firefighting equipment to our advantage, and taking early and aggressive action will be key,” Kotek said. “But it’s going to be up to every single one of us, every Oregonian, to do our part to prevent human-caused fires before they start.”

Kotek ended her address with ways Oregonians should prepare for fire season as the weather becomes hot and dry.

“Prepare your yard. Have an evacuation plan. Have a togo kit. Have a plan if there’s smoke in your community,” Kotek said. “Above all, do everything you can wherever you are to prevent fires from starting in the first place.”

To learn more about wildfire preparedness, contact your local fire district or fire station.

Spring cleaning? Backyard burning debris advisory issued

STAFF REPORT

Country Media, Inc.

The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) and other fire prevention experts urge the public to exercise caution when disposing of yard debris this spring.

With fires already occurring in the state, particularly in the Southwest and Central Oregon District, Oregonians need to keep fire prevention at the top of their mind, according to the ODF, which advises that now is a great time to trim trees and bushes, and tidy up plants around your home to create a defensible space around your property. Defensible space creates a buffer around your home that can help protect your home from catching fire and provides firefighters with a safe space to work from.

Debris burning is the leading human-related fire cause on ODF-protected lands, so as you begin this spring clean-up, the ODF and Keep Oregon Green urge you to put some extra thought into how

you want to dispose of your yard debris.

Considering alternatives to burning like composting, chipping, or slowly disposing of it via your yard debris bin (if you have one) helps to prevent wildfire in your area. Check with your local disposal company for recycling options. By choosing an alternative disposal method, or burning under safe conditions outside of fire season, you can help significantly reduce the risk of a wildfire.

If you would still prefer to burn your yard debris, consider waiting until the rainy fall and winter seasons. Delaying your burn plans will give the debris more time to cure and avoid holdover fires when the weather gets hotter and drier over the next several weeks.

You can cover part of the pile with plastic to preserve a dry area to start your fire.

If burning now is the only option to dispose of yard debris, fire prevention specialists ask people to follow safe burning practices. The following tips can help stop

runaway burn piles:

Call before you burn –Burning regulations vary by location depending on the weather and fuel conditions. If you are planning to burn, check with your local ODF district, fire protective association, fire department, or air protection authority to learn about current burning restrictions or regulations, and if you need a permit. Stay with the fire until it is out cold – Never leave your debris burn unattended. State laws requires monitoring of debris burn piles from start to finish until it is out cold. This law is intended to ensure sparks or embers that jump from the fire can be put out quickly.

Know the weather Burn early in the day and never burn on dry or windy days, because fires can spread out of control more easily. Clear a 10-foot fuel-free buffer around the pile –Make sure there are no tree

branches or power lines above. Keep burn piles small –Large burn piles can cast hot embers long distances. Keep piles small, maximum of four feet by four feet. Add debris to the pile in small amounts as the pile burns.

Always have water and fire tools nearby – When burning, have a charged water hose or a bucket of water, and shovel on hand to put out the fire. Drown the pile with water, stir the coals, and drown again, repeating until the fire is cold to the touch. Go back and check burn piles - They can retain heat for several weeks and restart when the weather warms up and winds blow. Never use gasoline or other flammable or combustible liquids to start or speed up your fire.

Burn only yard debris – State laws prohibit burning materials or trash that create dense smoke or noxious

odors. Check the public use restrictions for Oregon Department of Forestry protected lands before you burn.

Costs of runaway debris burns – State law requires the proper clearing, building, attending and extinguishing of open fires all year. If your debris burn spreads out of control, you may have to pay for suppression costs, as well as the damage to your neighbors’ properties, which can be extremely expensive.

More tips about wildfire prevention, including campfire safety, motorized equipment use, and fire-resistant

landscaping can be found on the Keep Oregon Green website.

Courtesy photo

Courtesy photo

Bears

Continued from Page 1 waste is one of the strongest attractants for black bears and allowing bears access could qualify as illegal feeding if appropriate steps are not taken to prevent the issue.

Remove bird feeders when bears are active. Birds have plenty of naturally available food sources and bears will commonly feed from and destroy birdfeeders.

Never leave pet food outdoors. It attracts bears and other wildlife, putting your pets and wildlife at risk.

Clean and store grills after

each use.

Alert neighbors and ODFW to unusual bear activity (continued sightings during daylight hours, lack of wariness around humans or pets, etc.).

Share these tips with your neighbors, friends and family. A community effort is vital to preventing problems with bears. One person who feeds or attracts bears, intentionally or not, can pose a risk to everyone in the neighborhood.

Living responsibly with black bears is possible and it’s up to everyone to do their part to keep humans safe and bears wild. Contact your local ODFW office to report unusual bear activity or for information and resources to help prevent conflict with black bears.

Learn more about living with black bears at https:// myodfw.com/articles/helpkeep-bears-wild

Hole

Continued from Page 1

late Monday evening, May 8, when a photo was posted on social media. They expanded the safety fence early Tuesday, May 9 around both sinkholes to keep park visitors at a safer distance.

“We ask that visitors respect this barrier and all park safety barriers and that they keep pets on leashes and children away from the edges,” OPRD Park Ranger Supervisor Travis Korbe said. “We are monitoring the site daily, but

SNAP

Continued from Page 1 to get enough healthy food for themselves and their families,” ODHS Self-Sufficiency Programs Interim Director Claire Seguin said. “We are glad to be able to replacement benefits that were stolen due to EBT card skimming fraud and we encourage people to take steps to protect their benefits.”

ODHS officials said the replacements can be conducted following the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023.

it’s a dynamic environment. The soft sandstone cliffs can give way without warning, which is why it’s important to respect safety fences everywhere in the park.”

The second sinkhole appeared sometime between 10 a.m. when a park ranger checked on the safety fencing and 7:30 p.m. when a photo of the second sinkhole was posted on social media. OPRD is working with a geologist to help determine the best location for a permanent safety fence to keep visi-

How to request replacement SNAP benefits

Visit the ODHS website at https://www.oregon.gov/dhs/ assistance/food-benefits/pages/replacement%20-benefits. aspx for information on how to request benefits via email or mail. Visit a local office. Find an office near you at https:// www.oregon.gov/dhs/Offices/Pages/one-services.aspx

Call the ONE customer service center at 1-800-6999075

If your Temporary As-

tors away from the sinkholes. The soil appears to be falling into large, unstable voids beneath the cliff caused by strong ocean waves. The first sinkhole measures about 25 feet across and 15 feet deep.

Cape Kiwanda is a sandstone outcropping, which is naturally much weaker and prone to sudden changes compared with hardier rock like basalt. While any natural area carries risk, enjoying Cape Kiwanda safely requires visitors to pay special attention.

sistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits are stolen you can request replacement benefits by contacting:

Your family coach

The ONE customer service center at 1-800-699-9075

Local Self-Sufficiency Programs Office, find an office online at www.oregon.gov/dhs/Offices/Pages/ Self-Sufficiency.aspx.

How to protect your EBT card information:

Freeze your card immediately after each use and unfreeze it before making pur-

Even though the spot is marked with barriers, the sinkholes could change at any moment, and others could appear.

OPRD officials urge visitors that if you see something that concerns you, leave the area and report it to Cape Lookout State Park staff at 503-842-4981. In an emergency, call 911.

Read more about the first sinkhole at Cape Kiwanda with this story at thenewsguard.com

chases. Block purchases made outside of Oregon and online purchases. These blocks can be removed by you when necessary. Do not share your PIN with anyone outside your household.

Check your EBT account regularly for unauthorized charges. If you notice any, cancel your card immediately. Learn more at https://govstatus.egov.com/or-dhs-benefits or call 2-1-1

Courtesy photo from the OPRD

The second sinkhole was discovered Monday, May 8, about 10 inches away from the first sinkhole.

Taft Track preparing for the District meet

WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.

The end of high school spring sports is fast approaching, and Taft High School’s track and field programs are ready for the challenge the upcoming district meet will bring.

Head Coach Pete Doll said that the boys and girls teams have a good chance of placing well as a team, and there are strong individuals whole will battle it out for a place at the State Championships.

The district championships will take place on May 17 and 18, and the team is coming off encouraging performances at the Regis Twilight meet.

“The team has made some outstanding progress, most recently at the Regis Twilight meet last Friday,” Doll said. “We had a tough couple of weeks of training and competition, so we went into the meet looking to focus on certain events. With 30 teams attending, there was plenty of competition to push the athletes.”

Girls program

Taft’s girls program has seen some significant development throughout the season, and Doll said their recent meet saw improvement in many of their athlete’s events. Aliviah Mode dropped .4 seconds in her 100m hurdles to place 4th and break into the

top 10 Taft All-Time list at #8, Doll said.

“She is definitely one that has a great chance to qualify to state in the 100m and 300m hurdles, as well as help our 4 x 100 and 4 x 400 relay teams,” Doll said. “Jayde Reyes-Cornejo ran another solid 800, placing 15th in 2:41, as her and Evie Harkey, who has the top 800m time in the district at 2:29, have good chances to qualify in that race.”

Hazel Fiedler has also been dropping times steadily and was able to chop 7 seconds off her 1500m time, placing 16th at Regis Twilight with a time of 5:43. Doll said her performance puts her in a good position to do well at the district meet. Senior Makaia Kessinger also improved her season time in the 3000m. She placed 11th at Regis Twilight with a time of 13:01, the 2nd fastest time in the district. Doll also applauded the program’s 4 x 400 squad.

“The girls 4 x 400 improved their #2 Taft All-Time position, dropping 4 seconds to placing 4th in 4:23,” Doll said. “This relay consisting of Evie, Aliviah, Jayde, and Sienna Lillebo are #1 in the district, and all have chances to qualify in their individual events.”

Boys program

On the boy’s side, there have also been strides made by their most tenacious ath-

letes to put them in solid positions heading down the stretch. Jackson Nightingale registered a 10-second improvement in the 1500m, placing 6th in 4:28, while Senior Luke Harkey dropped 20 seconds in his 3000m, placing 11th in 9:45, Doll said.

“They both have chances to place high at districts, along with Eli Jones in the 800m,” Doll said.

One of the athletes Doll expects to do well at districts is high jumper Kol Tolan. While he had a tough go at Regis Twilight due to cold and wet conditions, Doll said he is “still a threat” to qualify in the high jump, triple jump, long jump, and 300m hurdles. Trenton Battle will also have chances in the 100m, 200m, high jump, and will lead the 4 x 400m team of Kavan Boyd, Eric Rassmusen, and Dylan Stutzman. The quartet improved their time at Regis Twilight by 5 seconds to 3:38, placing 5th, and will have a shot at qualifying for state.

Field events and going forward

In addition to their strong performances on the track, Taft hopes to send athletes to state in events like discus, shot put, and javelin throw. Both the boys and girls programs have strong contestants.

“Kavan will also try to qualify in the javelin, along with others from the throwers

group like McKena Weiss(javelin), Abby Nunes (discus), Dom Stahl(discus), Kimberly Alcaraz(discus, shot), Teya Kessinger (discus, shot), and Cielo Borbonio-Cervantes(shot),” Doll said.

Doll is excited about the district meet and believes their depth is a crucial component. In addition to having high top-end athletes on the roster, there are plenty of competitive athletes that will score points in the 5th - 8th positions. The mix of great seniors and developing underclassmen gives the program a chance to do well now and in the future.

“This combination should put us in contention for a high team finish on both sides. Plus, we have several underclassmen that will gain valuable experience and will look to contribute in the future,” Doll said. “Seniors Luke, Makaia, Kimberly, Kavan, Eli, Devin Meyers, and Cooper Fitch, along with juniors Aliviah, Dylan, Hazel, Nozomi Umenishi, and Marco Perez, will contribute now, but the rest will continue to develop for the next 2 to 3 years as the program continues to grow.”

Follow Taft track and field results at www.athletic. net/team/173/track-and-fieldoutdoor/2023, and look for our coverage at thenewsguard.com and in the Tuesday print editions of The News Guard.

Electric charging stations now at state parks

STAFF REPORT

Country Media, Inc.

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD), electric vehicle maker Rivian, nonprofit Adopt A Charger (AAC), and manufacturer Entec Polymers have unveiled Rivian Waypoints Level 2 electric vehicle (EV) chargers at L.L. Stub Stewart State Park and the Banks-Vernonia State Trail as well as other areas.

The chargers offer park visitors an historic opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while using zero-emission vehicles to reduce air pollution and protect Oregon’s natural beauty.

Fifteen other chargers have been installed among the following parks:

• Cape Lookout State Park

•William M. Tugman State Park

•Prineville Reservoir State Park

• The Cove Palisades State Park

“We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of Rivian, Adopt A Charger and Entec Polymers,” OPRD Director Lisa Sumption said. “These public-private part-

Child Care

Continued from Page 5 every day – accessing affordable housing and accessing affordable child care. Building housing with care is something LIIF champions every day. By constructing housing and child care together, we can harness the assets of each sector – housing developers, child care providers and community development financial institutions – to build strong communities of opportunity for all.”

“The high cost and limited supply of child care is being felt in every aspect of our community and our economy,” First Five Years Fund Executive Director Sarah Rittling said. “We know that the cost of child care for two children exceeds annual housing costs in a majority of states -and too many parents are try-

nerships allow for innovative projects that help improve state park infrastructure and achieve a shared vision for a cleaner, greener future.”

Rivian, working through AAC, donated the installation design, construction costs and EV chargers placed in the parks. Fundraising by AAC brought plastics manufacturer Entec Polymers as a private donor to cover the cost of visitor charging electricity for a limited time.

The Level 2 chargers are compatible with all electric vehicles and are powered by 100% renewable energy via Rivian’s energy matching program. This collaborative effort extends the electric charging infrastructure grid to new areas for EV drivers to explore. The chargers will

ing to figure out how they’ll afford to pay for both. We are so grateful to Congresswoman Bonamici for her leadership on the Build Housing With Care Act, and her work to expand access to high-quality child care, especially for families in low-income communities.”

“Every county in Oregon is a child care desert for at least one age group,” Family Forward Oregon Sr. Political Director Courtney Veronneau said. “Without investing in new facilities and helping existing providers and programs expand, we will be unable to meet the demands for early learning and child care. The Building Housing with Care Act makes a critical investment in suitable child care infrastructure.”

The legislation was introduced in the House May

improve recreational access for all EV drivers, not just Rivian owners.

“We’re proud to support the Oregon State Park mission to provide safe and equitable access to state parks with these electric vehicle chargers,” Rivian Senior Director of Energy and Charging Solutions Trent Warnke said. “Our Rivian Waypoints chargers are compatible with any EV and through our energy matching program, can provide zero-emission energy to any EV driver who might need it—peace of mind in terms of getting where you need to go whether that’s home or onto another one of Oregon’s beautiful state parks.”

“The installation of EV charging stations at Oregon State Parks supports OPRD’s environmental stewardship by enabling zero emission travel to these popular destinations,” Adopt a Charger Executive Director Kitty Adams Hoksbergen said. “It complements The Oregon Electric Byways and the West Coast Electric Highway, which provide the framework for EV tourism, by closing the gaps in the infrastruc-

11 and is cosponsored by Representatives Troy Carter, Kathy Castor, Madeline Dean, Dwight Evans, Sara Jacobs, Pramila Jayapal, Derek Kilmer, Annie Kuster, Barbara Lee, Stephen Lynch, Jerrold Nadler, Wiley Nickel, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Dina Titus, and Rashida Tlaib. Senator Wyden will introduce a Senate version of the bill next week.

The legislation is endorsed by: Low Income Investment Fund, National Low Income Housing Coalition, First Five Years Fund, National Housing Law Project, National Women’s Law Center, Council of Large Public Housing Authorities, National Children’s Facilities Network, Local Initiatives Support Corporation, American Federation of Teachers, Save the Children, American Federation of State,

ture. I am forever grateful to OPRD, Rivian, and Entec for recognizing the need to provide car charging at these parks to help give visitors the confidence to purchase a plug-in vehicle.”

“Entec Polymers is excited to partner with OPRD, Rivian, and Adopt a Charger to improve access to EV charging stations, and to offer visitors a sustainable transportation choice,” Entec Polymers Senior Vice President and General Manager Steve Tomaszewski said.

The new state parks EV chargers join the nearly 1,700 public Level 2 chargers throughout Oregon. More public charging options will help convince more drivers to consider an EV for their next vehicle. Transitioning Oregon’s cars, trucks and SUVs to electric vehicles is part of the state’s plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from transportation.

Additional information about the OPRD program including charging station locations and charging etiquette is available on the department website.

County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), National Association of Counties, Oxfam America, National Partnership for Women & Families, Prosperity Now, Early Care & Education Consortium, Family Values @ Work, ZERO TO THREE, UnidosUS, National Association for the Education of Young Children, First Focus on Children, Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), National Association for Latino Community Asset Builders, National Alliance of Community Economic Development Associations (NACEDA), National Association for County Community and Economic Development, KinderCare Learning Companies, Family Forward Oregon, Generation Housing, Purpose Built Communities Foundation, Inc., IFF, and Capital Impact Partners.

Courtesy photo from Pete Doll