TNG613

Oregon’s Housing Shortage

Lincoln City sees $36.1M in housing construction

JEREMY C. RUARK

Country Media, Inc.

City officials say Lincoln City is experiencing a massing, $36.1 million housing boom.

Ten projects are underway that represent a mix of affordable and other housing options.

Oregon is short 140,000 housing units and needs to build more than a 500,000 homes over the next 20 years in order to keep up with demand, according to Hacienda CEO Ernesto Fonseca.

“This is very unusual, it had not happened like this in a very long time,” Lincoln City Planning and Community Development Director Anne Marie Skinner said.

The changing of the city’s building codes to remove impediments to the develop of housing and changes in state law removement impediments

JEREMY C. RUARK Country Media, Inc.

Barbara Scott Benedict of Otis family lost their home in the 2020 Echo Mountain Fire. Since then, they have been living in a 29foot travel trailer. On June 7, all that changed.

The Benedicts are now preparing to move into one of Oregon’s first mass-timber modular homes. A large crane carefully moved the Benedicts new modular house into place Wednesday morning, June 7, as part of housing project called Mass Casitas. Mass is for mass timber, a highly engineered wood product, and Casitas is Spanish for small home or cottage.

Led by Hacienda CDC, Mass Casitas is described by developers as an innovative pilot project using Oregon-grown mass timber to develop prototype modular homes to help address the state’s housing shortage. Five of the homes are being delivered to communities this summer, including the new home in Otis.

The crane lifted the Otis Mass Casita in two large modules from flatbed trucks onto a

to affordable housing have led to the building boom in Lincoln City, according to Skinner.

“Also, the city is working to have private-public partnerships with nonprofits in doing what the city can do as far as contributing city-owned land, deferring system development charges, and doing no proper-

ty tax exceptions, to meet the housing demand,” she said.

Skinner said Lincoln City needs the affordable housing for the middle-income workers and for the overall workforce and more market-rate housing is expected. She adds that the housing boom is impacting the entire city.

“It is making it more liv-

able,” she said. “Because in order to live here you need a dwelling. So, if there are no dwellings available it is not livable at all. By providing more dwelling units, whether they are houses or apartments, or duplexes, we are making it more livable by providing places for people to live.”

Below are the current Lin-

coln City building projects and the value of each.

1. The Lofts (conversion of movie theater to 38 apartment units) $3,500,000 Market-rate housing

2. Taft Bldg D (3 apartment units and one office

See BOOM, Page 10

5,000 grass carp introduced to Devils Lake

JEREMY C. RUARK Country Media, Inc.

Five thousand carp have been introduced to Devils Lake as an effort by the Devils Lake Water Improvement District (DLWID) to rid the Lincoln City lake of elodea, an invasive

“It is our biggest battle against elodea,” DLWID Board member Tina French said as she watched a crew release the carp through a white plastic shoot connected to a large truck.

The project took place June 7, on the side of the lake at the Blue Heron Landing.

The carp will be used as part of DLWID’s vegetation management plan by eating up as much elodea as possible. Elodea canadensis, an invasive aquatic plant that grows in fresh water, has sprung up all throughout Devils Lake over the past year, according to French in an earlier published interview in The News Guard.

“We knew we were going to have a vegetation issue, that’s why we came up with a vegetation management plan,” French said. “We did not know it was going to go from zero to one hundred like it did. On May 1st last year, we were like what is this stuff and where did it come

from. By Mid-August it was in every corner of the lake. It started at the Devils Lake Park and Boat Launch, so we’re assuming it came in on a boat from out of the area. Elodea is an issue all over the West Coast, not just a Devils Lake issue.”

French said the introduction of the carp to improve the lake health is in conjunction with a mechanical harvester has an effort to keep the lake open for recreational uses.

“The harvester basically cuts the weeds and makes it so that people can access the lake, but it is not the long-term solution,” French said. “We figure we need about 17,000 of the carp to control the level of vegetation in Devils Lake. We want some vegetation for the healthy

ecology of the water.”

French said the DLWID battle is getting more fish to continue the lake health project.

“That means we will have to have an annual maintenance management plan, with what we believe will be about 1,500 fish, but we don’t know yet,” French said.

The DLWID is working with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) after the agency allowed a rule exception to have the introduction of the carp at Devils Lake.

“But the ODFW is very concern about the grass carp, which is not a native fish,” she said. “So, they are being very strict about the use of the carp. We are hopeful that we can shorten the amount of time to reevalu-

ate this project so that we won’t lost the battle.”

French said Devils Lake represents $1.4 billion economic impact to Lincoln City.

Lincoln City Mayor Susan Wahlke also attended the June 7 project and said she is encouraged with the DLWIUD efforts. We have lots of weeds for the fish to eat and hopefully that will reduce the problems with the weeds and make the lake more useable,” Wahlke said.

Background

Grass carp are a species of fish that are commonly found in large rivers in China and Russia.

See CARP, Page 10

Courtesy photo

A large crane lifts one of the first “Mass Casitas” into place at the Otis site.

Coast Moment

Meet the artists series kicks off

SUBMITTED

The Freed Gallery in Lincoln City presents Meet the Artist Series.

Joel Nickel, “Abstract Geometric” artist and retired Lutheran pastor will show his works and discuss his creative process at the Freed Gallery at 2 p.m. June 17.

“I’m interested in the harmonic balance of color and form in an asymmetrical world—a world that often feels out of balance and disharmonious,” Nickel said. “Within the clash of color, random shapes and the pull of gravity we can discover tranquility in a fractured world and carry away an image on the retina of a slice of peace, joy and humor.”

Nickel carries his distinctive style from paintings into elegant Cloisonne jewelry.

The art of cloisonne, separating and dividing the colors of enamel with silver wire, goes back to the 14th century. Nickel uses this technique with his abstract geometric style to give his jewelry a modern edge.

In addition to Nickel’s there will be three other, “Meet the Artist” shows throughout the summer. Details at www. freedgallery.com.

History

The Freed Gallery, located at 6119 Highway 101, has been in Lincoln City for 27 years. Lee Freed opened the gallery in 1996 and along with her staff, continues to run the gallery. The Gallery features over 100 artists, including the wind sculptures of Lyman Whitaker that decorate the lawn of the gallery.

For more information, call 547-996-5600.

Courtesy photos from Freed Gallery

Top: Enamel Pendant.

Center: Nickel Pendent.

Bottom: Joel Nickel painting.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

June 20 Off-shore energy presentation

Oregon Sea Grant and OSU Extension Specialist for Lincoln County Dr. Angee Doerr is scheduled to speak at the Gleneden Beach Community Club, 110 Azalea Street from 6-8 p.m. She’ll discuss what’s happening now and in the future with geothermal, wind and marine wave energies. Free.

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 Central Coast Word Surfers

Writing group 1 to 3 p.m. every second Saturday of the month. Free. Driftwood Public Library, 801 SE Highway 101 in Lincoln City

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

If you have a community event coming up, send brief details with the date, time, location and contact phone/email to jruark@countrymedia.net.

Jeremy C. Ruark / Country Media, Inc.

An early morning walk along the Pacific Coast shore at Lincoln City. See more Coast Moments at thenewsguard.com.

Include pets in your preparedness plans

LINCOLN COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

June is National Pet Preparedness month and is the perfect time to review your emergency plans for your furry, scaley, and feathery family members. Keep your pets and livestock prepared for emergencies by taking these steps:

Create and practice your emergency plan for pets and livestock.

Take inventory of and replace expired emergency supplies such as pet food, medications, and water.

Stay informed of local hazards and emergencies.

Take appropriate steps to keep your animals safe and be prepared to evacuate them with your household.

Plan for Pets

Take animals with you if you need to evacuate. Only as a last resort should animals be left behind.

Create a plan with neighbors, friends, or relatives to evacuate your pet if you are not able to do so.

Animals may run away or hide during an emergency.

If your area is in a level one or higher evacuation warning, put your pet’s collar or harness on and keep them in a secure room. Doing this will allow you to grab them quickly if you need to evacuate.

Many emergency shelters cannot accept animals. Before disaster strikes, find out which hotels/shelters allow animals or which friends outside of the area will be able to help.

Be sure ID tags are on collars and consider a microchip.

Keep your dog’s license (legally required) and cat’s license (recommended) updated. This helps animal get reunited with their families faster.

Keep your pets’ vaccinations and ID tags up to date. Keep a copy of these documents in your family’s Go Bag.

Prepare a pet emergency kit with leashes, collars,

State issues ‘pig butchering’ scam alert

The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) is warning consumers to be wary of an unexpected text or direct message from a stranger – it might be the first step in a “pig butchering” scam.

portable carriers, water, food, medications, sanitation materials, immunization records, first-aid kit, and photos to prove ownership.

Don’t leave pets in vehicles, tethered, or crated without you.

If you have to leave your animals at home, keep them inside a secure area. Leave at least a 10-day supply of dry food and water. Put signs on windows and doors indicating the number and type of animals inside and your contact information.

Be aware that your pet’s behavior may change after a crisis. They may become more aggressive or self-protective.

Plan for Livestock

If your area is in a level 2 or higher evacuation warning, evacuate with your livestock now. Begin preparing your livestock in a level 1 evacuation warning for transport. This will give you more time to safely secure your animals and get trailers or other equipment on the road before it is too late.

Post emergency contact numbers on barns and/or pasture fences.

Write your phone number on your stock with a permanent marker if you must release them.

Have a supply of feed at a separate location.

Involve family and neighbors in an evacuation plan. Make a kit with leads, halters, first aid, quieting hoods, water, photos, and a copy of your ownership papers.

More Resources for Pet and Livestock Emergency Planning can be found: Lincoln County Emergency Management Recorded Webinar: Animals: Pets and Livestock Preparedness - Wildfire Presentations 2021

Ready.gov: Prepare Your Pets for Disasaters Red Cross: Pet Disaster Preparedness

For more information and tips visit www.lincolncountrysheriff.net.

The term pig butchering comes from the practice of fattening a pig before slaughter. These scams often involve fraudsters contacting targets seemingly at random, using social media or common communication apps.

The scammer gains the victim’s trust, often by starting a romantic relationship or a simple friendship. The scammer then starts to convince the victim to invest in phony investments, including fraudulent cryptocurrency schemes, before falsely claiming the initial investment grew significantly, according to the DFR. The scammer then asks for more and more money, and demand multiple types of fees if a victim requests to withdraw the funds. Even when the victim pays the withdrawal fees, the fraudster does not refund the victim’s money, but rather disappears with the funds without any further communication.

According to the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), there are several warning signs to be aware of involving these types of scams:

Unexpected contact: Never respond to unsolicited messages from unknown contacts, even about seemingly benign topics, especially via text message and on encrypt-

ed messaging applications.

Refusal to participate in video chats: If someone you consistently have been messaging with declines to interact face to face, they likely are not the person from the profile photo.

Request for financial information: Don’t share any personal financial information with anyone you have never met in person. If a new virtual friend or romantic connection starts making financial inquiries, put the brakes on the relationship.

Invitation to invest in specific financial products: Be wary of any unsolicited investment advice or tips, particularly from someone you have spoken to only online and even if they suggest you trade through your own account. Always question what a source has to gain from sharing tips with you and whether the transaction fits with your financial goals and investment strategy.

Unknown or confusing investment opportunity: Carefully evaluate the product, as well as the person or company requesting your investment. Along with a basic search, try adding words such as “scam” or “fraud” to see what results come up. Consider running recommen-

POLICE BLOTTER

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

Lincoln City Police

May 28

12:24 a.m

Caller reports an intoxicated subject hit a parked car in the 1700 block of NW 44th Street. Subject taken to jail on DUII charges.

5:27 a.m

Extra patrols requested after reports of lots of tents up on the beach in the 51st Street area.

May 29

6:35 a.m.

Callers report three vehicles broken into in the 100 block of NE Highway 101.

10:59 p.m.

Caller reports male screaming in the parking garage in the4 800 block of SW Highway 101. Subject transported to Samaritan North Lincoln Hospital at his request.

Oregon State Police

May 13

12:04 a.m.

A vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation at Highway 101 milepost 142 and found to be driving while suspended. The driver was cited and warned not to drive. The vehicle was seen driving again, was stopped, and the driver was cited again. The vehicle was towed for SB780 impound by Rowley’s Towing. The driver stormed off while yelling expletives before he could be given his tow paperwork.

4:38 p.m.

An OSP trooper responded to a two-vehicle rear-end crash which occurred on Highway 20 near the inter-

dations by a third party or an investment professional who has no stake in the investment and use FINRA BrokerCheck to see if the promoter is a registered investment professional.

Unfamiliar trading platforms: Do extensive research before moving any money, particularly in an emerging market such as cryptocurrency, which has hundreds of exchanges and new avenues for trading continuing to evolve.

Who controls the platform?

What security measures are in place? How can you withdraw funds if needed? If you don’t know the answers to those questions, don’t put your assets there.

Exaggerated claims and elevated emotions: Take a closer look at any investment that offers much higher than average returns or is touted as “guaranteed.” Fraudsters will also often use their knowledge about you to appeal to your emotions – something like, “Don’t you want to have money to send your kids to college?”

Sense of urgency about an upcoming news announcement or share price increase: Remember that insider trading is illegal, and you should never trade in shares of a company on the

section of Tom Jack Road. Unit #1, a yellow Jeep Wrangler.

5:40 p.m.

An OSP trooper responded to a disturbance at Beachside State Park. A person became belligerent when he was cited for staying past his reservation check out date. The person began screaming and yelling and causing multiple people in surrounding campsites to be concerned. The person was located, taken into custody for disorderly conduct and lodged at the Lincoln County jail.

May 14

3:49 p.m.

A single vehicle non-injury crash occurred at milepost 4 on Highway 18 when a maroon Subaru Forester left the road after the driver fell asleep. The owner coordinated for an insurance provided tow.

5:01 p.m.

A two vehicle non-injury crash occurred on Highway 18 at milepost 2 eastbound when a gray Ford Explor-

basis of material, nonpublic information.

“Romance scams and crypto scams continue to be the source of significant losses for consumers,” DFR Administrator T.K. Keen said. “Consumers who receive contacts out of the blue through messaging apps on their phone or other means should be especially suspicious of those trying to entice them into cryptocurrency investments.”

Although the division has not received any complaints specific to pig butchering schemes, it knows that this activity is occurring based upon conversations with federal and nearby state law enforcement authorities. Several states and federal authorities have issued warnings on this sort of fraud. In 2022, investment fraud caused the highest losses of any scam reported by the public to the FBI’s Internet Crimes Complaint Center (IC3), totaling $3.31 billion.

Frauds involving cryptocurrency, including pig butchering, represented most of these scams, increasing 183 percent from 2021 to $2.57 billion in reported losses last year.

The division accepts consumer complaints and will forward to the appropriate law enforcement authorities. Consumers can also make a complaint to the FBI’s IC3 at https://www.ic3.gov/.

The Division of Financial Regulation is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and www.dcbs.oregon.gov.

er rear-ended a blue Honda Civic. The Honda Civic was driven from the scene. Menefee Towing recovered the Ford Explorer.

6:21 p.m.

A White Toyota Echo was stopped on Highway 101 at milepost 112 for menacing and the driver was found to be DUII. The driver was arrested for DUII and the vehicle was towed by Car Care Tow Pro.

May 15

5:12 p.m.

Oregon State Police responded to a non-injury crash involving a green Dodge Caravan at Highway 101 and Highway 18. The driver advised they reached for an item they dropped and drove off the left side of the roadway into a ditch. The van struck a roadway sign before coming to a stop. The driver arranged for local family to remove their van from the ditch.

May 16

2:17 p.m.

A three-vehicle rear-ender crash occurred on Highway101 around milepost 135. Vehicle #2 (white Tacoma) and #3 (white Murano) were stopped with #3 trying to turn left into Moolack Beach wayside. Northbound Vehicle #1 (black Santa Fe) crashed into #2, which then crashed into #3. No injuries were reported. Coast Towing towed #1 and #2. Driver #1 cited for Careless Driving-Accident and Driving Uninsured.

OBITUARIES

Blase John McDougall

1944 - May 29, 2023

Blase John McDougall passed away at the age of 79, on Memorial Day, at his home in Lincoln City, OR, of natural causes after a long battle with cancer. He was born in Pasco, WA, to Norman and Marjorie McDougall. At his side to the end, along with their spouses, were his two daughters; Heather Asher of Salem, OR and Michelle Tranbarger of Kennewick, WA. Two sisters, three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren also survive him. His parents, a brother and a sister precede him in death. After graduating Grant High School, Blase enlisted as a Combat Engineer in the U.S. Army (Vietnam era), then worked for Union Pacific while attending college courses, which ultimately led him to a 27-year career as a fireman (retired Captain) with the City of Milwaukie Fire Department. Following retirement, he moved to the Oregon Coast and established the Sprinkler Stop Valve Company where he also invented several other firefighting products. Blase was a lifelong avid fisherman, even skippered a fishing boat (“Lucky Me”) out of Depot Bay. He was also a very talented artist and was a member of Brush & Pallet Art and Painters Club for many years. More often than not you would find Blasé working out, listing to The Beatles or enjoying a cold beer from his Kegerator while playing Keno. He will be missed.

Evelyn Mildred Nickel

Evelyn Mildred Nickel, 92, died May 24, 2023. Private services are planned.

Beverly Anne Ulbricht

Jan. 21, 1929 - May 26, 2023

Beverly “Bev” Ulbricht went to sing with the angels in Heaven after passing away peacefully on May 26, 2023. She was born Jan. 21, 1929, in Klickitat, Washington to Clem and Anne Ulbricht. Her grandfather and father were Lutheran pastors and instilled in Bev a strong Christian faith that served as her beacon throughout her life.

In 1946, Bev moved to Indiana to pursue her Bachelor of Arts in English from Valparaiso University and later received her Master of Arts in English from the renowned Bread Loaf School of English at Middlebury College in Vermont. Bev’s passion was in teaching others, and she served for 40 years as a high school English teacher in California and Oregon, helping students craft their writing skills and inspiring them in the pursuit of knowledge.

Upon retirement, Bev spent her winters in Mountain View, California, and her summers at “The Green Onion” cottage on the coast of Lincoln City, Oregon. She filled her time with many activities in both locations, including water aerobics,

book clubs, AAUW, church and choir services, time with family and friends, and attending local theatre and art productions. Bev loved to travel and explored every part of the world. The only continent she missed was Antarctica. She was passionate about expanding her horizons, learning new cultures, and creating memories with friends and family.

Bev’s other passion was music. She sang soprano in her church choirs and her voice was often heard ringing out among the congregation. Bev took organ lessons in college and played the organ at her home in Oregon.

Bev was preceded in death by her parents, Clem and Anne Ulbricht; brother, Roger Ulbricht; and nephew, Michael Ulbricht. She is succeeded by her sister-in-law, Katherine Ulbricht; niece, Heidi Ulbricht; her husband, Brad; and their children, Molly and Ben.

A memorial service was held at 3:30 p.m. on Sat., June 10, 2023 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Mountain View, California. Alta Mesa Funeral Home is caring for the family. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Beverly Ulbricht Endowed Scholarship Fund in Secondary Education at Valparaiso University.

The scripture Bev chose is from 2 Timothy 4:7 in the words of Paul, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” Aunt Bev lived her life through prayer, faith and obedience and is basking in her eternal reward with Christ Jesus our Lord.

Bev was a lifelong scholar, teacher, and friend. Her brilliant mind, love of service, sophisticated style, and kindness for her many friends around the world will be truly missed by all who knew her.

Democrats warn of lost opportunities as walkout persists

BEN BOTKIN

Oregon Capital Chronicle

News Guard Guest Article

Oregonians have much to lose if the legislative session ends by June 25 without a functioning Senate that can vote on bills, Democrats warned Tuesday, June 6.

The GOP-led Senate walkout is preventing votes on bills intended to benefit average Oregonians from urban Portland to rural eastern Oregon. Examples run the gamut: Bills held up by the walkout would reduce the risk of wildfires racing across rural Oregon, address the homelessness crisis as people camp in tents along city streets and keep health care coverage going for some of the 300,000 Oregonians estimated to lose their access to the Oregon Health Plan, as pandemic-era provisions that kept more people enrolled end.

The GOP-led walkout started May 3, preventing the Senate from having its two-thirds quorum needed to conduct business. For now, the question no one seems to know: How will the session end?

Both Democrats and Republicans blame each other for the impasse, and there are no visible signs of progress.

In a press conference on the state Capitol steps, Democratic lawmakers and advocates on Tuesday urged Republican senators to return to floor sessions and vote on bills.

“Oregonians have had enough,” said Rep. Khanh Pham, D-Portland. “This Senate shutdown is a subversion of our democracy.”

Meanwhile, Senate Minority Leader Tim Knopp, R-Bend, told reporters that Democratic leaders in the Senate have failed to work in a bipartisan way that upholds the constitution.

“Their ire is misplaced, and the Senate Democrats could have ended this weeks ago,” Knopp said. “They chose not to.”

He said the walkout is a means to hold the Democratic-controlled Senate accountable “because if we don’t, no one will, and we can’t have a lawless Legislature.”

Senate Republicans started the walkout saying bill summaries fail to comply with a state law that requires them to have an eighth-grade reading level. They also have pointed to bills they oppose, including House Bill 2002, which would shore up abortion rights and access to gender-affirming care for transgender people, including children. Another is House Bill 2005, which would raise the minimum age to purchase most firearms from 18 to 21 years old.

Bills in jeopardy

As the impasse continues, Democratic lawmakers on Tuesday urged Oregonians – and their Republican colleagues in the Senate – to consider what’s at stake.

For example, a $70 million rural economic development proposal faces an uncertain fate. That proposal, House Bill 3410, would help small farmers, the fishing industry, outdoor recreation, county fairs and other small businesses, said Rep. David Gomberg, D-Otis.

Other bills would aid economic development at the Port of Coos Bay and bring broadband to rural communities, including a proposal that would pull in about $700 million in federal funding to improve broadband services.

But the bills in jeopardy go beyond money and the economy.

For example, House Bill 3211 would make it easier for Oregon to get $60 million in matching federal funding for new dams in Oregon that are vulnerable to earthquakes.

“If the dam fails, lives will be lost,” Gomberg said.

For example, in Newport the bill would help fix two dams that provide water for the coastal community of 10,000 people. Those dams would flood the city if they broke.

On the health care front, a stalled bill would help Oregonians who face losing coverage from the state’s Medicaid program. The proposal would create a “bridge plan” to help people who make too much to qualify for the Oregon Health Plan but cannot afford coverage on the marketplace. The state is now determining how many of the 1.5 million Oregonians who stayed covered because of the federal pandemic emergency still qualify for coverage.

Separately, House Bill 2395 would make naloxone kits that stop opioid overdoses available in public schools, buildings and for first responders to give to people for future use.

“This is going to save lives and give people a chance to recover and we must pass this bill,” said Rep. Travis Nelson, a Portland Democrat and nurse who attended the press conference in his scrubs.

On the education front, there are proposals to put $10.2 billion toward the K-12 state school budget and put $140 million toward early literacy programs. Separately, Senate Bill 283 would give 20% pay increases to teachers and classified staff who work in special education, support initiatives to diversify the educator workforce and guarantee more pay and benefits to substitute teachers.

“This is the legislation Senate Republicans are now

holding hostage after we’ve worked together on it for months and months,” said Sen. Michael Dembrow, D-Portland. “This is unacceptable. It’s time for them to join us and together, do our jobs.” There also are wildfire protection bills that would help people navigate the tangle of homeowners insurance for claims and create programs to help communities and property owners reduce the risk of wildfires.

“If we don’t want a series of summers blanketed by toxic smoke over increasing expanses of the state, we have to stay the course,” said Sen. Jeff Golden, D-Ashland. “Oregonians in all of these communities are waiting and hoping and needing that we get back to the work of wildfire protection.”

Advocates urge action

Separately, dozens of nonprofits asked Republican senators in a letter on Tuesday to return to work to pass bills affecting thousands of low-in-

come Oregonians “We are very concerned that walkout tactics are again preventing action on the serious challenges we face as a state,” they wrote.

They said more than 1 million Oregonians lack enough food to eat and that 18,000 have no stable shelter.

The letter, addressed to 11 Senate Republicans, was signed by leaders of 60 organizations that provide food, housing, child care and other services to residents throughout the state. They said the senators need to end their strike.

“It’s time for legislators to come together and do what’s right for our communities. We need you to return to work now on behalf of Oregon families,” they said.

What’s next

The fault lines are wide.

Even so, Knopp said there’s room to negotiate. For example, House Bill 2002 is particularly worrisome to Republicans because it would allow minors of any age to ac-

cess abortions without parental notification required.

Knopp said Republicans would want parental notification in place for minors seeking abortion, but with a provision in which consent would not be sought in cases of a parent abusing the minor.

Pham, the Democratic representative, said she understands why parents have questions about that provision of the bill but stressed that child victims need access to care.

“For victims of child sexual abuse, this is an unfortunate, terrible situation, but we still have to protect their rights,” Pham said. “Oregon Democrats can’t give away – are never going to deny –reproductive health care for whoever needs it, and we’re not going to compromise on protecting victims like that.”

Meanwhile, each senator who participates in the walkout faces a $325 fine for each unexcused absence. The fines started on Monday. If the session ends with a stalemate and the bills die, budget bills could only pass in a special session. House Speaker Dan Rayfield, D-Corvallis, said in a separate press conference a special session could possibly happen in mid-July. But no precise dates are set as both sides hold out

hope of an agreement that salvages the rest of the session.

Democrats can’t end the session before June 25 and pivot to a special session without Republican senators returning. The session in 2024 is a short session of 35 days or less with limits on how many bills lawmakers can introduce, meaning that some proposals would have to wait until 2025.

“If we give up on this session – they give up on this session – what are we going to do?” said Dembrow, whose legislative career ends in January 2025 because he decided not to run for re-election.. “We have a short session ahead of us next year. We can only do so much in a short session.”

As for the concerns of Democratic lawmakers, Knopp suggested it’s their fault if the bills die.

“The real question is: Are the Democrats committed to making that happen?” Knopp said. “It appears as though they are so adamant to not have bipartisanship and not have the minority party have a say in what happens that they’re willing to risk the lives of Oregonians.”

Editor Lynne Terry and deputy editor Julia Shumway contributed to this report.

This is unacceptable. It’s time for them to join us and together, do our jobs.

Sen. Michael Dembrow

WRITE TO US:

We want to hear from you and encourage you to write letters to the editor.

Because of space limitations, shorter letters have a better chance of being printed. We may edit your letter for style, grammar and clarity, although we do as little editing as possible. Letters longer than 300 words will not be printed. Letters can be on any topic, but letters on local issues will be given preference.

Letters to the Editor that attack or challenge private individuals or private businesses will be refused. Challenges to public officials may be permitted. Only one letter per writer will be published on a single topic each month.

Thank you letters are limited to mentioning individuals and non-commercial organizations and cannot exceed 200 words.

Paragraph here on deadlines for each paper.

We also welcome longer guest columns. These might be columns written by newsmakers, public officials or representatives of local organizations. These can run a little longer in length, usually between 450 and 700 words. To verify authenticity, all letters and guest columns must be signed and include your address and daytime phone number. We won’t print your street address of phone number. Any guest opinion may appear on the (newspaper name) website. While we strive to publish all viewpoints, The News Guard and Country Media reserve the right to refuse to publish any letter or guest editorial.

Letters to the Editor or guest columns can be sent to: newsguardeditor@ countrymedia.net or P.O. Box 848, Lincoln City, OR, 97367-0848. Letters can also be submitted at thenewsguard.com.

ADVERTISING

DEADLINES:

Advertising: Wednesday, 5 p.m. Legals, Community news and listings: Thursday at 12 p.m. Sports information and Letters to the editor: Friday at noon.

POSTMASTER:

Send address changes to The News Guard, P.O. Box 848, Lincoln City, OR 973670848. Periodicals Postage paid at

Options for submitting obituaries:

• Death notice: Includes the person’s name, age, town of residency, and info about any funeral services. No Charge. Add a photo $25.

• Standard Obit: The cost is $75 for the first 200 words, $50 for each additional 200 words. Includes a small photo at no extra cost. Add $25 for each additional photo.

• Option for a 50% off pickup (no changes) for an obit within 2 weeks of original publish date.

• Display Obit: $9.50 pci. Add color for $5.00 pci. Includes a small photo at no extra cost.

• Obit includes placement online.

News

A message to the class of 2023

DR. KAREN GRAY News Guard Guest Column

Dear LCSD Seniors, As I stand at the threshold of retirement after five fulfilling years as the Lincoln County School District Superintendent, I find myself reflecting on the extraordinary journey we all have faced together.

Our time over the past few years has been marked by unprecedented challenges, and yet, it has also revealed your incredible resilience and ability to adapt. As you prepare to embark on a new chapter in your lives, I want to share a message that encapsulates the essence of your high school journey and offers guidance for the road ahead.

Throughout your years in high school, you faced a monumental test - one that was not included in any curriculum. The pandemic descended upon us, casting a shadow of uncertainty and upheaval. You witnessed a world in turmoil, and you were forced to confront a new reality filled with remote learning, canceled events, and social distancing. It would have been easy to give up and to allow those circumstances to define you. But instead, you rose to the occasion with remarkable courage and determination.

In the face of adversity, you found strength. You discovered the power of community, supporting each other through virtual platforms and organizing socially distanced gatherings. You adapted to online learning, showcasing your adaptability and perseverance. The challenges of the pandemic became catalysts for growth, transforming you into resilient individuals who are now prepared to take on any obstacle that comes your way.

As you leave the familiar hallways of your school and venture in unchartered territory of adulthood, remember the lessons you have learned. Embrace the power of adapt-

ability, for life is a constant series of changes and challenges. Be bold and unafraid to step out of your comfort zone, for it is in those moments of discomfort you may discover your true potential. Seek opportunities to connect with others, to listen and learn from different perspectives, for diversity enriches our lives and broadens our horizons. Success is not measured solely by achievements, but by the impact you have on others and the mark you leave on the world. Be kind and give more than you take. Use your unique experiences to create positive change, to be a force for good in the world that desperately needs it. You have the power to shape your own destiny. Embrace your uniqueness, pursue your dreams and never stop learning.

To all the educators reading, I want to express my deepest gratitude for the tireless work you do. I encourage you to continue inspiring, challenging and nurturing the minds of our future leaders. The progress we have made would not have been possible without your unwavering commitment to our shared mission of “Every Child. Every Day. Future Ready.”

To the parents, guardians and families, thank you for entrusting us with the education and well-being of your children. Your involvement, support, and partnership have been invaluable in shaping the educational experiences we provide. Your commitment to your children’s success has been a driving force behind our accomplishments.

It has truly been a pleasure and privilege to serve this wonderful community and it will continue to hold a special place in my heart. Stay curious, stay passionate and never stop believing in the power of education.

Congratulations to the Class of 2023. You are ready. The world awaits! With heartfelt wishes for your future success.

Dr. Karen Fischer Gray is the LCSD Superintendent.

Statewide flavor ban is a slippery slope

While not surprising, I am disappointed the Oregon legislature continues to advance the statewide flavored tobacco ban.

As a longtime smoker, I know firsthand the addictive nature of cigarettes. After trying to quit on several occasions, it wasn’t until I tried flavored nicotine pouches that I was finally able to stop smoking four years ago.

The flavored component of these products was vital to my success. Flavors are enticing to many adults, and many of us, including myself, would rather return to smoking cigarettes if these flavored alternative products are taken off the market.

Youth vaping is concerning, but surveys show these rates are on the decline. Addi-

tional evidence shows the implementation of flavor ban policies has little correlation with decreased underage use. As we saw with alcohol nearly a century ago, prohibiting products doesn’t eliminate them. In many cases, prohibition exacerbates the illicit market.

A well-regulated legal market is far better at keeping addictive substances out of the hands of children. Even through the internet, adult users can order less harmful flavored nicotine products via sites like Nicokick, while underage consumers are filtered out through rigorous age identification protocols.

I hope the legislature will reconsider their support for this flavor ban. This policy sets a concerning precedent for other flavored nicotine products necessary to reduce harm to public health.

Brock Seaburn Escadata

VOICES OF THE COMMUNITY VIEWPOINT

State revises community college funding distribution

STAFF REPORT

Media,

Country

Inc.

The Oregon Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) has approved a major revision to the way in which over $550 million annually in local and state taxpayer funding is distributed to the state’s 17 community colleges, including Oregon Coast Community College in Lincoln County and Tillamook Bay Community College in Tillamook.

Developed after a yearlong collaborative process, the new student-focused distribution model approved June 8, dedicates a proportion of taxpayer funds to support student success and equity outcomes for Oregon community college students. This is the first time in a generation the community college funding formula has been extensively reviewed in relation to statewide and community goals, and the changes reflect an intentional focus on improving success of underserved populations.

“For the first time, we are strategically dedicating a proportion of taxpayer funding to improving student success at Oregon’s 17 community colleges, while continuing the foundational funding that is focused on getting students in the door and supporting the incredible programs these

Fast Fact

The changes to the community college funding distribution model approved shift a proportion of dedicated taxpayer funding to support student success.

colleges offer, HECC Exec-

utive Director Ben Cannon said. “This change is good news for students, for colleges, for Oregon’s diverse regions and communities, and for all our partners who are working together to better support thriving futures for Oregonians from underserved populations across the state.”

“The community colleges are proud to have been part of a collaborative process that recognizes the need to allocate funding that supports students entering our colleges and rewards efforts toward certificate and degree completion,” Clackamas Community College President and chair of the Oregon Community College Presidents’ Council Tim Cook said. “The new funding formula provides a mechanism to achieve our institutional and state equity goals while ensuring financial stability. This is a win for our students, our colleges, and our state.”

Prior to these changes, the funding model for community colleges has distrib-

uted taxpayer funds almost entirely based on student enrollment, alongside a small base payment that supports the operations of each college, according to a release from the HECC. While that formula was noted for a number of strengths including its stability, support for smaller, regional colleges, and funding equalization of state and local resources, it did not incorporate student success components. The revision keeps many of the qualities that were deemed strong in the existing framework but adds two new components to better promote equitable student success and advance Oregon’s educational attainment goals for youth and adults, recognizing that different levels of support are needed to provide students from different backgrounds an equal opportunity to succeed, the HECC release states.

Specifically, up to 10 percent of state taxpayer funds will eventually be distributed via the two new components which are designed to: Foster student success by awarding a proportion of funding according to the enrollment of underserved groups.

Incentivize student success through weighted funding tied to the completion and

Karen Gray

Agatha Christie radio plays at Theatre West

STAFF REPORT

Country Media, Inc.

Wes Ryan directs this one-weekend-readers theatre production of three BBC Radio Plays written by Agatha Christie.

The Stories

The Wasp’s Nest This classic Christie short story sees Hercule Poirot come between a bitter triangle of lovers to prevent a sinister murder before it takes place.

Yellow Iris

A distressed phone call from a mystery woman brings Hercule Poirot to the hotel Jardin des Cygnes, where a man commemorates the fouryear anniversary of his wife’s sudden death – a death under very suspicious circumstances that Poirot himself witnessed.

Gathered is everyone present on that fateful night and now Poirot must find a killer in the midst, before they strike again.

Butter in a Lordly Dish

Sir Luke Enderby, eminent prosecution barrister and seasoned womaniser, bites off more than he can chew, when the case of a serial killer comes back to haunt him.

A tense one act thriller that’s contains one of Christie’s most gruesome murders.

Funding

Continued from Page 5 success of specified underserved groups.

The student success components focus on low-income learners, adult students, career/technical education seekers, and underrepresented students as identified by race/ ethnicity. An equity analysis of the review process and redesign—available in the appendix of the CCSF report here and based on the HECC Equity Lens—found that redistributing funding based on prioritized equity populations is expected to result in a per student funding level that is 12 percent higher than it is today for students in the equity populations.

“Thank you to all our state and college partners who have contributed so much wisdom and expertise to this review and the changes we approved,” HECC Chair Terry Cross said. “We could not have done this without a deep level of collaboration and a shared commitment to improve the lives of Oregonians. The updates strike a critical balance between intentional change and necessary stability; we are acting on our commitment to improve equitable success, while maintaining the parts of the model that promote stability that institutions depend upon to support their students.”

History

The review process began in March 2022 and was highly collaborative in an effort to ensure the community college funding formula is consistent

The Cast Lewis Smith is Hercule Poirot, with an ensemble cast of:

T. Sean Prescott - John Jeans - Patrick Kiernan - Wes Ryan

Jan Coloccia - Alice Luchau - Bonnie Ross

Show Times

7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, June 30 and July 1 2 p.m. Sunday Matinee, July 2

Seating is on a first come, first serve basis. Tickets for the show are: $10.00 each. For Reservations, call Theatre West at, 541-994-5663. See more information online at, https://TheatreWest. com

About Theatre West Theatre West is a non-profit, all volunteer community theatre since 1975. Membership is open to all with dues at $15 per year for individuals, $25 for couples and $35 for families.

Everyone in the community is invited to join and support our Lincoln City community theatre.

More information about the theatre may be found at www.theatrewest.com or call 541-994-5663 anytime. You will also find Theatre West of Lincoln City on Facebook.

with the state’s higher education goals and the missions of the community colleges. The process included extensive consultation with a work group advisory to HECC staff, composed of representatives from numerous community college perspectives including presidents, business officers, student affairs staff, institutional effectiveness staff, and faculty, as well as the support of a third-party facilitator. Public updates were provided regularly to the commission through its funding and achievement subcommittee. In spring 2023, a rule advisory committee was convened to consider potential administrative rule amendments related to the new design. The new formula design is expected to take effect starting in FY2025. The permanent rule amendments pertaining to the revision are available here and the changes as well as the process are described in detail in a presentation on the CCSF Review Process and the CCSF Review Final Report.

“Oregon is already a leading state in student success-focused funding based on the 2015 rehaul of the state’s funding model for public universities, which was also reviewed and updated in 202,” HECC Director of Postsecondary Finance and Capital Jim Pinkard said. “With the changes to the community college model, we have broadened our commitment to equitable student success to all 24 public institutions. We look forward to continuing to closely monitor and review the impact of these changes.”

DIVORCE $130. Complete preparation. Includes children, custody, support, property and bills division. No court appearances. Divorced in 1-5 weeks possible. 503-772-5295. www. paralegalalternatives.com legalalt@msn.com

ENJOY 100% guaranteed, delivered-to-thedoor Omaha Steaks! Get 8 FREE Omaha Steaks Burgers! Order The AllTime Grilling Faves! ONLY $99.99. Call 1-844-5172592 and mention code 73375STH or visit www. omahasteaks.com/GrillFaves5226.

FREE high speed internet for those that qualify. Government program for recipients of select programs incl. Medicaid, SNAP, Housing Assistance, WIC, Veterans Pension, Survivor Benefits, Lifeline, Tribal. 15 GB internet service. Bonus offer: Android tablet FREE with one-time $20 copay. Free shipping & handling. Call Maxsip Telecom today!

1-877-390-0458.

Spring has sprung and it’s planting season again. This year Nature Hills, America’s largest online plant retailer, has an exclusive offerFrench Manicure Panicle Hydrangea. Sale price just $24.60 plus s/h. Call for details and order today. Call Nature Hills Plant Nursery 1-844-550-0583 or visit naturehillsdeal.com/bloom45.

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855536-8838.

Call LeafGuard and say goodbye to gutter cleaning for good. No cleaning. No leaking. No water damage. No more ladder accidents. Get LeafGuard today and be protected for life. FREE estimate. Financing available. 20% off total purchase (Restrictions may apply.) Call 1-844-345-1537.

Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home standby generator. $0 Money Down + Low Monthly Payment Options. Request a FREE Quote –Call now before the next power outage: 1-877-5571912.

The Generac PWRcell, a solar plus battery storage system. SAVE money, reduce your reliance on the grid, prepare for power outages and power your home. Full installation services available. $0 Down Financing Option. Request a FREE, no obligation, quote today. Call 1-844989-2328.

Switch and save up to $250/year on your talk, text and data. No contract and no hidden fees. Unlimited talk and text with flexible data plans. Premium nationwide coverage. 100%

U.S. based customer service. For more information, call 1-877-916-0803.

Dish Network: Only from Dish- 3 year TV Price Guarantee! 99% Signal Reliability, backed by guarantee. Includes Multi-Sport with NFL Redzone. Switch and Get a FREE $100 Gift Card. Call today! 1-866373-9175.

DIRECTV OVER INTERNET - Get your favorite live TV, sports and local channels. 99% signal reliability! CHOICE Package, $84.99/ mo for 12 months. HBO Max and Premium Channels included for 3 mos (w/ CHOICE Package or higher.) No annual contract, no hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-855602-2009.

Connect to the best wireless home internet with EarthLink. Enjoy speeds from 5G and 4G LTE networks, no contracts, easy installation, and data plans up to 300 GB. Call 866857-2897.

Are you a pet owner? Do you want to get up to 100% back on Vet Bills? Physicians Mutual Insurance Company has pet coverage that can help! Call 1-833-975-1626 to get a free quote or visit insurebarkmeow.com/onac.

Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 855-839-0752.

Safe Step. North AmericaÂ’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-833-395-1433.

Wesley Financial Group, LLC. Timeshare Cancellation Experts. Over $50,000,000 in timeshare debt and fees cancelled in 2019. Get free informational package and learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. Call 844-487-0221.

Stroke and Cardiovascular disease are leading causes of death, according to the American Heart Association. Screenings can provide peace of mind or early detection! Contact Life Line Screening to schedule your screening. Special offer - 5 screenings for just $149. Call 1-844-655-0972.

Donate your car, truck, boat, RV and more to support our veterans! Schedule a FAST, FREE vehicle pickup and receive a top tax deduction! Call Veteran Car Donations at 1-866695-9265 today!

Donating your vehicle? Get more! Free Towing. Tax Deductible. Plus a $200 restaurant voucher and a 2-night/3-day hotel stay at one of 50 locations. Call Heritage for the Blind to donate your vehicle today - 1-844-533-9173.

302

Personals

Young 73 devoted craftsman seeks gentle, non-religious, natureinspired girl to share productive, romantic life of creativity, outdoor adventures, and healthy food most of the time. Life is for living. Write Phillip, P.O. Box 23, Tidewater, OR, 97390.

999

Public Notices

NG23-498 TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE TS NO.: 22-64243 Reference is made to that certain Deed of Trust (hereinafter referred as the Trust Deed) made by RICHARD J BETTENCOURT AND JILL M BETTENCOURT, AS TENANTS BY THE ENTIRETY as Grantor to COMMONWEALTH LAND TITLE, as trustee, in favor of AMERIQUEST MORTGAGE COMPANY, as Beneficiary, dated 12/30/2005, recorded 1/23/2006, as Instrument No. 200600956, in mortgage records of Lincoln County, Oregon covering the following described real property situated in said County and State, to-wit; LOT 9 AND 10, BLOCK 5, TOGETHER WITH AN UNDIVIDED 1/67TH INTEREST IN AND TO TRACTS A AND B, RIVER BEND PARK, IN COUNTY OF LINCOLN AND STATE OF OREGON. The street address or other common designation, if any for the real property described above is purported to be: 684 AND 690 N RIVER BEND RDOTIS, OREGON 97368 The Tax Assessor’s Account ID for the Real Property is purported to be: R435894/06-10-29-DC- 00300, R438310/06- 10-29-DC-00400

Both the beneficiary and the trustee, ZBS Law, LLP have elected to foreclose the above referenced Trust Deed and sell the said real property to satisfy the obligations secured by the Trust Deed and a Notice of Default and Election to Sell has been recorded pursuant to ORS 86.752(3). All right, title, and interest in the said described property which the grantors had, or had power to convey, at the time of execution of the Trust Deed, together with any interest the grantors or their successors in interest acquired after execution of the Trust Deed shall be sold at public auction to the highest bidder for cash to satisfy the obligations secured by the Trust Deed and the expenses of sale, including the compensation of the trustee as provided by law, and the reasonable fees of trustee’s attorneys. The default for which the foreclosure is made is: The monthly installment of principal and interest which became due on 11/1/2011, late charges, and all subsequent monthly installments of principal and interest. You are responsible to pay all payments and charges due under the terms and conditions of the loan documents which come due subsequent to the date of this notice, including, but not limited to, foreclosure trustee fees and costs, advances and late charges. Furthermore, as a condition to bring your account in good standing, you must provide the undersigned with written proof that you are not in default on any senior encumbrance and provide proof of insurance. Nothing in this notice should be construed as a waiver of any fees owing to the beneficiary under the deed of trust, pursuant to the terms and provisions of the loan documents. The amount required

cure the default

Advances, Other Fees): $30,710.90 Trustee’s Fees and Costs: $1,557.00 Total necessary to cure; $173,053.23 Please note the amounts stated herein are subject to confirmation and review and are likely to change during the next 30 days. Please contact the successor trustee ZBS Law, LLP, to obtain a “reinstatement’ and or “payoff” quote prior to remitting funds. By reason of said default the beneficiary has declared all sums owing on the obligation secured by the Trust Deed due and payable. The amount required to discharge this lien as of 3/31/2023 was: $265,599.00 Said sale shall be held at the hour of 10:00 AM on 8/23/2023 in accord with the standard of time established by ORS 187.110, and pursuant to ORS 86.771(7) shall occur at the following designated place: At the front entrance to the Lincoln County Courthouse located at 225 West Olive, in the City of Newport, OR 97365 Other than as shown of record, neither the said beneficiary nor the said trustee have any actual notice of any person having or claiming to have any lien upon or interest in the real property hereinabove described subsequent to the interest of the trustee in the Trust Deed, or of any successors) in interest to the grantors or of any lessee or other person in possession of or occupying the property, except: NONE Notice is further given that any person named in ORS 86.778 has the right, at any time prior to five days before the date last set for sale, to have this foreclosure proceeding dismissed and the Trust Deed reinstated by payment to the beneficiary of the entire amount then due (other than such portion of the principal as would not then be due had no default occurred) and by curing any other default complained of herein that is capable of being cured by tendering the performance required under the obligation(s) of the Trust Deed, and in addition to paying said sums or tendering the performance necessary to cure the default, by paying all costs and expenses actually incurred in enforcing the obligation and Trust Deed, together with the trustee’s and attorney’s fees not exceeding the amounts provided by ORS 86.778. The mailing address of the trustee is: ZBS Law, LLP 5 Centerpointe Dr., Suite 400 Lake Oswego, OR 97035 (503)946-6558 In construing this notice, the masculine gender includes the feminine and the neuter, the singular includes plural, the word “grantor” includes any successor in interest to the grantor as well as any other persons owing an obligation, the performance of which is secured by said trust deed, the words “trustee” and ‘ beneficiary” include their respective successors in interest, if any. Without limiting the trustee’s disclaimer of representations or warranties, Oregon law requires the trustee to state in this notice that some residential property sold at a trustee’s sale may have been used in manufacturing methamphetamines, the chemical components of which are known to be toxic. Prospective purchasers of residential property should be aware of this potential danger before deciding to place a bid for this property at the trustee’s sale.

Dated: 4/7/2023 By: Amber L. Labrecque, Esq., OSB#094593 ZBS Law, LLP Authorized to sign on behalf of the trustee A-4782077 06/13/2023, 06/20/2023, 06/27/2023, 07/04/2023

NG23-500 Public Auction at Anchor Storage 1673 SE East Devils Lake Rd, Lincoln City OR 97341. Contact number is 541- 921-9878. The following unit(s) will be sold at Public Auction on June 30th 2023 Beginning at 11:30am for non-payment of rent and other fees. Unit #F10 Jason Scroggins, Unit #B7 James Shannon, Unit #E4 Lizzy Lichatowich, Unit #A59 Lisa Greathouse, Unit #E16 Leslie Goul, Unit #A58 Curtis Diener, Unit #A73 Cynthia Everett.

NG23-474 TRUSTEE’S NOTICE OF SALE T.S. No.: OR-23954376-BB Reference is made to that certain deed made by, RITA KARTALYAN, AN UNMARRIED WOMAN, AND ARI KARTALYAN,

AN UNMARRIED MAN as Grantor to WESTERN TITLE & ESCROW COMPANY, as trustee, in favor of MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., AS NOMINEE FOR EVERGREEN MONEYSOURCE MORTGAGE COMPANY ITS SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS, as Beneficiary, dated 4/1/2019, recorded 4/2/2019, in official records of LINCOLN County, Oregon as fee/file/instrument/microfilm/reception number 2019-02924 and subsequently assigned or transferred by operation of law to MIDFIRST BANK covering the following described real property situated in said County, and State. APN: R257929 11-11-05-DA03303-00 LOT 4 AND THE SOUTH 10 FEET OF LOT 5, BLOCK 10, BAKER’S ADDITION TO NEWPORT, IN THE CITY OF NEWPORT, LINCOLN COUNTY, OREGON, ACCORDING TO THE OFFICIAL PLAT THEREOF, RECORDED JULY 26, 1887 IN PLAT BOOK 3, PAGE 5, PLAT RECORDS. Commonly known as: 1038 NE FOGARTY ST, NEWPORT, OR 97365-2609 The undersigned hereby certifies that based upon business records there are no known written assignments of the trust deed by the trustee or by the beneficiary, except as recorded in the records of the county or counties in which the above described real property is situated. Further, no action has been instituted to recover the debt, or any part thereof, now remaining secured by the trust deed, or, if such action has been instituted, such action has been dismissed except as permitted by ORS 86.752(7). Both the beneficiary and the trustee have elected to sell the said real property to satisfy the obligations secured by said trust deed and notice has been recorded pursuant to Section 86.752(3) of Oregon Revised Statutes. There is a default by grantor or other person owing an obligation, performance of which is secured by the trust deed, or by the successor in interest, with respect to provisions therein which authorize sale in the event of such provision. The default for which foreclosure is made is grantor’s failure to pay when due the following sum: TOTAL REQUIRED TO REINSTATE: $71,400.40 TOTAL REQUIRED TO PAYOFF: $288,756.48 Because of interest, late charges, and other charges that may vary from day-to-day, the amount due on the day you pay may be greater. It will be necessary for you to contact the Trustee before the time you tender reinstatement or the payoff amount so that you may be advised of the exact amount you will be required to pay. By reason of the default, the beneficiary has declared all sums owing on the obligation secured by the trust deed immediately due and payable, those sums being the following, towit: The installments of principal and interest which became due on 5/1/2020, and all subsequent installments of principal and interest through the date of this Notice, plus amounts that are due for late charges, delinquent property taxes, insurance premiums, advances made on senior liens, taxes and/or insurance, trustee’s fees, and any attorney fees and court costs arising from or associated with the beneficiaries efforts to protect and preserve its security, all of which must be paid as a condition of reinstatement, including all sums that shall accrue through reinstatement or pay-off. Nothing in this notice shall be construed as a waiver of any fees owing to the Beneficiary under the Deed of Trust pursuant to the terms of the loan documents. Whereof, notice hereby is given that QUALITY

LOAN SERVICE CORPORATION

F/K/A QUALITY LOAN SERVICE CORPORATION OF WASHINGTON, the undersigned trustee will on 9/6/2023 at the hour of 9:00 AM, Standard of Time, as established by section 187.110, Oregon Revised Statues, At the Public Entrance of the Lincoln County Courthouse, located at 225 West Olive Street, Newport, OR 97365 County of LINCOLN, State of Oregon, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash the interest in the said described real property which the grantor had or had power to convey at the time of the execution by him of the said trust

deed, together with any interest which the grantor or his successors in interest acquired after the execution of said trust deed, to satisfy the foregoing obligations thereby secured and the costs and expenses of sale, including a reasonable charge by the trustee. Notice is further given that any person named in Section 86.778 of Oregon Revised Statutes has the right to have the foreclosure proceeding dismissed and the trust deed reinstated by payment to the beneficiary of the entire amount then due (other than such portion of said principal as would not then be due had no default occurred), together with the costs, trustee’s and attorney’s fees and curing any other default complained of in the Notice of Default by tendering the performance required under the obligation or trust deed, at any time prior to five days before the date last set for sale. Other than as shown of record, neither the beneficiary nor the trustee has any actual notice of any person having or claiming to have any lien upon or interest in the real property hereinabove described subsequent to the interest of the trustee in the trust deed, or of any successor in interest to grantor or of any lessee or other person in possession of or occupying the property, except: Name and Last Known Address and Nature of Right, Lien or Interest RITA KARTALYAN 1038 NE FOGARTY ST NEWPORT, OR 97365-2609 Original Borrower ARI KARTALYAN 1038 NE FOGARTY ST NEWPORT, OR 97365-2609 Original Borrower For Sale Information Call: 800-280-2832 or Login to: www.auction.com In construing this notice, the singular includes the plural, the word “grantor” includes any successor in interest to this grantor as well as any other person owing an obligation, the performance of which is secured by the trust deed, and the words “trustee” and “beneficiary” include their respective successors in interest, if any. Pursuant to Oregon Law, this sale will not be deemed final until the Trustee’s deed has been issued by QUALITY LOAN SERVICE CORPORATION F/K/A QUALITY LOAN SERVICE CORPORATION OF WASHINGTON. If any irregularities are discovered within 10 days of the date of this sale, the trustee will rescind the sale, return the buyer’s money and take further action as necessary. If the sale is set aside for any reason, including if the Trustee is unable to convey title, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the monies paid to the Trustee. This shall be the Purchaser’s sole and exclusive remedy. The purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Trustor, the Trustee, the Beneficiary, the Beneficiary’s Agent, or the Beneficiary’s Attorney. If you have previously been discharged through bankruptcy, you may have been released of personal liability for this loan in which case this letter is intended to exercise the note holders right’s against the real property only. As required by law, you are hereby notified that a negative credit report reflecting on your credit record may be submitted to a credit report agency if you fail to fulfill the terms of your credit obligations. Without limiting the trustee’s disclaimer of representations or warranties, Oregon law requires the trustee to state in this notice that some residential property sold at a trustee’s sale may have been used in manufacturing methamphetamines, the chemical components of which are known to be toxic. Prospective purchasers of residential property should be aware of this potential danger before deciding to place a bid for this property at the trustee’s sale. NOTICE TO TENANTS: TENANTS OF THE SUBJECT REAL PROPERTY HAVE CERTAIN PROTEC-

Oregon in book/ reel/volume No. in Book 454 Page 0885 and modified as per Modification Agreement recorded 8/16/2017 as Instrument No. 2017-07909 and subsequently assigned or transferred by operation of law to MIDFIRST BANK covering the following described real property situated in said County, and State. APN: R299680 07-1114-CC- 01900-00 BEGINNING AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SECTION 14, TOWNSHIP 7 SOUTH, RANGE 11 WEST OF THE WILLAMETTE MERIDIAN, IN LINCOLN COUNTY, OREGON; THENCE SOUTH 88 DEG. 39 ‘ EAST, ALONG THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID SECTION 14, A DISTANCE OF 417 FEET; THENCE NORTH ALONG THE CENTER OF A ROAD, 50 FEET IN WIDTH, A DISTANCE OF 210 FEET TO THE TRUE PLACE OF BEGINNING OF THE TRACT HEREIN DESCRIBED, TO-WIT; THENCE

NORTH 100 FEET ALONG THE CENTER OF SAID 50 FOOT ROAD; THENCE WEST 125 FEET, THENCE SOUTH 100 FEET; THENCE EAST 125 FEET TO THE TRUE PLACE OF BEGINNING. EXCEPTING THEREFROM A STRIP OF LAND ON THE EAST SIDE OF THE ABOVE DESCRIBED TRACT, 25 FEET WIDE AND 100 FEET IN LENGTH, USED FOR ROAD PURPOSES.

Commonly known as: 1219 SE OAR AVE, LINCOLN CITY, OR 97367-2444 The undersigned hereby certifies that based upon business records there are no known written assignments of the trust deed by the trustee or by the beneficiary, except as recorded in the records of the county or counties in which the above described real property is situated. Further, no action has been instituted to recover the debt, or any part thereof, now remaining secured by the trust deed, or, if such action has been instituted, such action has been dismissed except as permitted by ORS 86.752(7). Both the beneficiary and the trustee have elected to sell the said real property to satisfy the obligations secured by said trust deed and notice has been recorded pursuant to Section 86.752(3) of Oregon Revised Statutes. There is a default by grantor or other person owing an obligation, performance of which is secured by the trust deed, or by the successor in interest, with respect to provisions therein which authorize sale in the event of such provision. The default for which foreclosure is made is grantor’s failure to pay when due the following sum: TOTAL REQUIRED TO REINSTATE: $13,457.50 TO-

TAL REQUIRED TO PAYOFF:

$74,117.58 Because of interest, late charges, and other charges that may vary from day-to-day, the amount due on the day you pay may be greater. It will be necessary for you to contact the Trustee before the time you tender reinstatement or the payoff amount so that you may be advised of the exact amount you will be required to pay. By reason of the default, the beneficiary has declared all sums owing on the obligation secured by the trust deed immediately due and payable, those sums being the following, to- wit: The installments of principal and interest which became due on 11/1/2021, and all subsequent installments of principal and interest through the

date of this Notice, plus amounts that are due for late charges, delinquent property taxes, insurance premiums, advances made on senior liens, taxes and/or insurance, trustee’s fees, and any attorney fees and court costs arising from or associated with the beneficiaries efforts to protect and preserve its security, all of which must be paid as a condition of reinstatement, including all sums that shall accrue through reinstatement or pay-off. Nothing in this notice shall be construed as a waiver of any fees owing to the Beneficiary under the Deed of Trust pursuant to the terms of the loan documents. Whereof, notice hereby is given that QUALITY LOAN SERVICE CORPORATION F/K/A QUALITY LOAN SERVICE CORPORATION OF WASHINGTON, the undersigned trustee will on 9/6/2023 at the hour of 9:00 AM, Standard of Time, as established by section

187.110, Oregon Revised Statues, At the Public Entrance of the Lincoln County Courthouse, located at 225 West Olive Street, Newport, OR 97365 County of LINCOLN, State of Oregon, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash the interest in the said described real property which the grantor had or had power to convey at the time of the execution by him of the said trust deed, together with any interest which the grantor or his successors in interest acquired after the execution of said trust deed, to satisfy the foregoing obligations thereby secured and the costs and expenses of sale, including a reasonable charge by the trustee. Notice is further given that any person named in Section 86.778 of Oregon Revised Statutes has the right to have the foreclosure proceeding dismissed and the trust deed reinstated by payment to the beneficiary of the entire amount then due (other than such portion of said principal as would not then be due had no default occurred), together with the costs, trustee’s and attorney’s fees and curing any other default complained of in the Notice of Default by tendering the performance required under the obligation or trust deed, at any time prior to five days before the date last set for sale. Other than as shown of record, neither the beneficiary nor the trustee has any actual notice of any person having or claiming to have any lien upon or interest in the real property hereinabove de-

scribed subsequent to the interest of the trustee in the trust deed, or of any successor in interest to grantor or of any lessee or other person in possession of or occupying the property, except:

1219 SE OAR AVE LINCOLN CITY, OR 97367-2444 Original Borrower MARK EISEMAN JR 1219 SE OAR AVE LINCOLN CITY, OR 97367-2444 Current Owner For Sale Information Call: 800- 280-2832 or Login to: www. auction.com In construing this notice, the singular includes the plural, the word “grantor” includes any successor in interest to this grantor as well as any other person owing an obligation, the performance of which is secured by the trust deed, and the words “trustee” and “beneficiary” include their respective successors in interest, if any.

Pursuant to Oregon Law, this sale will not be deemed final until the Trustee’s deed has been issued by QUALITY LOAN SERVICE CORPORATION F/K/A QUALITY LOAN SERVICE CORPORATION OF WASHINGTON. If any irregularities are discovered within 10 days of the date of this sale, the trustee will rescind the sale, return the buyer’s money and take further action as necessary. If the sale is set aside for any reason, including if the Trustee is unable to convey title, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the monies paid to the Trustee. This shall be the Purchaser’s sole and exclusive remedy. The purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Trustor, the Trustee, the Beneficiary, the Beneficiary’s Agent, or the Beneficiary’s Attorney. If you have previously been discharged through bankruptcy, you may have been released of personal liability for this loan in which case this letter is intended to exercise the note holders right’s against the real property only. As required by law, you are hereby notified that a negative credit report reflecting on your credit record may be submitted to a credit report agency if you fail to fulfill the terms of your credit obligations. Without limiting the trustee’s disclaimer of representations or warranties, Oregon law requires the trustee to state in this notice that some residential property sold

at a trustee’s sale may have been used in manufacturing methamphetamines, the chemical components of which are known to be toxic. Prospective purchasers of residential property should be aware of this potential danger before deciding to place a bid for this property at the trustee’s sale. NOTICE TO TENANTS: TENANTS OF THE SUBJECT REAL PROP-

deceased, the Estate of Ronald Dwayne McKibben, deceased, or otherwise, Defendants. Case No. 23CV11110 SUMMONS TO: ALL

UNKNOWN PERSONS asserting a claim or interest in real property commonly known as 12836 SE Elderberry Dr, South Beach OR 97366, whether as an interested person of the Estate of Wayne Alan McKibben, deceased, the Estate of Ronald Dwayne McKibben, deceased, or otherwise YOU ARE HEREBY REQUIRED to appear and defend the Complaint filed against you in the above entitled action within thirty (30) days from the date of service of this summons upon you, and in case of your failure to do so, for want thereof, Plaintiff(s) will apply to the Court for the relief demanded in the Complaint.

SUMMARY

STATEMENT The object of the Complaint in this cause of action is to quiet title to property commonly known as 12836 SE Elderberry Dr, South Beach OR 97366, more particularly described as Lot 17, Block 6, LOST CREEK PARK NO. 2, in Lincoln County, Oregon, for declaratory relief that the plaintiff is fee title owner to the property and all others are foreclosed. The complaint additionally seeks plaintiff’s costs and such other relief as the court may grant.

SPENCE, personal representative for the estate of BERT EDMOND MCKIBBEN; and ALL UNKNOWN

PERSONS asserting a claim or interest in real property commonly known as 12836 SE Elderberry Dr, South Beach OR 97366, whether as an interested person of the Estate of Wayne Alan McKibben,

NOTICE TO THE RESPONDENT READ THESE PAPERS CAREFULLY! You must “appear” in this case or the other side will automatically win. To “appear” you must file with the Court a legal document called a “motion” or a “answer”. The “motion” or “answer” must be given to the court clerk or court administrator within 30 days of the date of first publication specified herein 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 a lawyer, proof of service on the Plaintiff. If you have any questions, you should see a lawyer immediately. If you need help in finding a lawyer, you may call the Oregon State Bar’s Lawyer Referral Service at (503) 684-3763 or toll-free in Oregon at (800) 452-7636. Dated and first published: May 23, 2023. DAVID V. CRAMER, OSB #992479. Of Attorneys for Plaintiff Zantello Law Group, LLC, 2941 NW Highway 101, Lincoln City, OR 97367, Phone:

Federal judge reviewing Oregon’s gun control measure

Intent is to prevent mass shootings

Capital Chronicle

News Guard Guest Article

A federal judge is now reviewing a lawsuit that may determine the fate of a voter-passed law to regulate how Oregonians own firearms and ban ammunition magazines with more than 10 rounds.

In November, Oregon voters passed Measure 114, which is intended to help stem the scourge of gun violence and mass shootings and close gaps that allow bad actors to slip through. The measure would require people to get a permit to purchase a firearm, which would require a background check and a safety course. Gun rights advocates challenged it in federal court and in the Harney County Circuit Court, and it hasn’t yet taken effect.

Every year, hundreds of lives are shattered in Oregon from gun violence, suicides or accidental shootings. In 2022, 803 Oregonians visited hospital emergency rooms with firearm-related injuries, according to Oregon Health Authority data. In 2021, 670 people in Oregon died from firearms, according to federal data. The measure also would ban large-capacity magazines and close what critics call the “Charleston loophole” because of a 2015 mass shooting at a church in Charleston, South Carolina. That’s a federal law that allows firearms dealers to sell a gun without a completed background check if they haven’t received the results after more than three days.

The ban on large-capacity magazines is intended to prevent shootings like the one in August at a Bend grocery store, where a gunman with an AR-15-style rifle killed two people before taking his own life.

“Thank God we didn’t lose more people that night,” Bend City Councilor Anthony Broadman said during a

Thursday briefing with reporters. “We carry shootings like ours forever.”

Broadman also is haunted by a boyhood memory from 1991, when a gunman unsuccessfully tried to shoot and kill his father and missed. Broadman was 12 at the time.

Measure 114 on hold

For now, the measure is on hold

A Harney County District Court judge temporarily blocked the measure’s implementation as a separate lawsuit proceeds. The Harney County case is set for trial in September.

As a result, the five-day federal trial before U.S. District Judge Karin J. Immergut in Portland next week will not be the final word on Measure 114. Further appeals are likely from either side. The Oregon Firearms Federation is the lead plaintiff in the federal lawsuit,

along with firearms dealers and others. In court filings, they argued the measure is unconstitutional and infringes on people’s Second Amendment right to bear arms, such as by allowing indefinite delays when background checks aren’t processed in a timely way.

The organization and its attorneys couldn’t be reached for comment. If they’re successful, they will get a court ruling that overturns Measure 114 and declares it unconstitutional.

Because Measure 114 is a state law, the Oregon Department of Justice is defending it. The Oregon Alliance for Gun Safety, a nonprofit advocacy group, requested and received the federal court’s permission to intervene in the case, which allows the organization to aid in defending Measure 114.

The group plans to argue that the ban on large-capacity magazines and the permit-to-purchase requirements are constitutional. Large capacity magazines are acces-

sories, not arms, said Zach Pekelis, an attorney with Seattle-based Pacifica Law Group, who is representing the alliance in court.

“They’re not arms at all protected by the Second Amendment,” Pekelis said. “There’s a long history and tradition of regulating dangerous weapons and other accessories throughout the United States.”

What’s next

There are multiple moving parts of the case. Pekelis said the trial is scheduled to end Friday and Immergut is expected to take a few weeks or months to issue a written decision.

It’s a bench trial, meaning the judge will rule directly on the case without a jury.

The alliance is not directly involved in the Harney County case. That lawsuit will continue in September regardless

of what the federal judge decides. That case, too, is expected to face an appeal regardless of the outcome.

“It’s possible one or more of these cases, of course, will go on appeal, which would mean that the process would last a little bit longer,” Pekelis said.

Separately, pending firearms-related bills in the Legislature have drawn sharp objections from Republican lawmakers.

House Bill 2005 would raise the minimum age to purchase most firearms from 18 to 21 years and allow local government agencies to ban firearm possession on government-owned property. Senate Bill 348 would build upon Measure 114 with more requirements, such as giving the state until July 2024 to set up a permit-to-purchase system.

But with the Republican-led walkout in the Senate stalling votes on bills, those measures face an uncertain fate.

Follow developments at thenewsguard.com and in the Tuesday print editions of The News Guard.

There’s a long history and tradition of regulating dangerous weapons and other accessories throughout the United States.

Attorney Zach Pekelis

Community meetings set for sea otter recovery efforts

STAFF REPORT

Country Media, Inc.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) will host 16 public open houses with communities in Northern California and Oregon this June to gather input on the potential reintroduction of sea otters to their historical range.

The open houses will provide communities and stakeholders an opportunity to ask questions, share perspectives and speak with Service staff about sea otters and next steps in recovery efforts including the potential reintroduction process – should a proposal move forward.

The southern sea otter, one of three subspecies of sea otter, is listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. As directed by Congress, the Service assessed reintroduction feasibility in 2022.

The assessment concluded that reintroduction was biologically feasible and may have significant benefits for a variety of species in the marine ecosystem and expedite the recovery of the threatened southern sea otter.

The assessment also concluded that additional information about how reintroduction would affect stakeholders and local communities was needed before considering the next steps. There is no active proposal to reintroduce sea otters at this time.

The open houses will help the Service gather further information to inform next steps. As the Service considers the possibility of reintroduction, we recognize that community values and issues are critical in this process. Input from the public and key stakeholders, including ocean users, will be a foundational

Hope shines for endangered sea star

STAFF REPORT

Country Media, Inc.

The Oregon Coast Aquarium (OCAq) staff has discovered 25 critically endangered sunflower sea stars in Yaquina Bay. The discovered site is the most documented in one location since populations were decimated by Sea Star Wasting Syndrome (SSWS).

The group took to the bay in search of fish and invertebrates, which OCAq is permitted to acquire a limited number of each year. During the excursion, staff documented one adult and 24 juvenile sunflower stars—the largest measuring just six inches across.

Fully grown, the stars can reach up to four feet across and have as many as 26 arms.

SSWS caused a mass die off of sea stars along the Pacific Coast in 2013-2017. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) estimates 90 percent of the sunflower star population fell to the disease.

Sunflower stars are a keystone species, native to the

coastal waters of the Northeast Pacific Ocean. They play an important role keeping urchin populations in check, preventing the destruction of offshore kelp forests that serve as vital nursery habitat for marine life.

“We have to document this,” OCAq Aquarist Tiffany Rudek said as she began measuring the stars.

Rudek spent the last several years developing an effective treatment for sea stars impacted by stress, injury, or disease—including those suffering with SSWS symptoms. She continues to collaborate with marine life groups involved in sea star research efforts. After photographing and measuring the sunflower stars, each was carefully returned to the sandy seafloor. This concentration of juvenile sunflower stars may be a precursor of the species’ recovery, though only time will tell.

“To come across not one, but twenty-five sunflower stars?” said Rudek. “It’s incredible. It’s unprecedented. I am so excited about what this could mean for the species.”

component in establishing next steps including whether or not a potential reintroduction is proposed, as well as ensuring that proposals are crafted in a way that benefits

stakeholders and local communities.

The Service aims to be inclusive, thoughtful, and scientifically sound as we consider actions to support sea

otters, local communities and ecosystem recovery, now and in the future.

Open houses will be held in the following communities in Oregon:

Oregon

Astoria - June 20, 5:30

p.m. – 8 p.m. Astoria Elks

Lodge #180 453 11th St., Astoria, OR 97103

Garibaldi - June 21, 10:30

a.m. – 1 p.m. Old Mill RV Resort 210 South 3rd St. Garibaldi, OR 97118

Newport - June 21, 5:30

p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Newport Recreation Center, Multipurpose Room 225 SE Avery St., Newport, OR 97365

Florence - June 22, 10:30

a.m. - 1 p.m., Lane Community College, Florence Center, Room 103 3149 Oak St., Florence, OR 97439

Coos Bay - June 22 5:30

p.m. – 8 p.m., Southern Oregon Community College, Em-

pire Hall, Lakeview Rooms

E, F, & G 1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay, OR 97420 Port Orford - June 23, 11

a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Port Orford Library, Large Conference Room 1421 Oregon St., Port Orford, OR 97465

Gold Beach - June 23, p.m. – 8 p.m., Curry County Library, Meeting Hall 94341 3rd St., Gold Beach, OR 97444 Brookings - June 24, 10:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Coastal Community Center (located inside Coastal Home, Health, and Hospice) 585 5th St., Brookings, OR 97415

The Service encourages interested stakeholders and the public to drop in any time during the open houses. Full details and open house information are also available online at www.fws. gov/project/exploring-potential-sea-otter-reintroduction.

OSU to conduct $1.4M fish movement study

MICHELLE KLAMPE

News Guard Guest Article

An Oregon State University (OSU) researcher has been awarded a three-year, $1.4 million grant from the U.S. Department of Defense to lead a study about the movement of fish stocks due to changing climate conditions and the potential geopolitical tensions that could result from that shift.

“Fisheries that exist today in the U.S. may move to Canadian or even Russian waters in 20 years,” said James Watson, an associate professor in OSU’s College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences and the project’s principal investigator. “We will be exploring ways to measure those changes and the potential consequences of those changes, economically and politically, particularly in the Arctic and Pacific oceans.”

The grant, from the De-

partment of Defense’s Minerva Research Initiative, is one of 11 selected from 130 applications based on scientific merit, relevance and potential impact. The initiative’s focus is on basic research in social and behavioral sciences on topics relevant to national security.

Watson’s project is titled:

“Future Fish Wars: Chasing Ocean Ecosystem Wealth.”

The research team includes Steven Mana‘oakamai Johnson, who earned his doctorate at Oregon State and is now faculty at Cornell University; Sarah Glaser of the World Wildlife Fund; Cullen Hendrix of the Peterson Institute for International Economics and economist Ethan Addicott of the University of Exeter. The researchers will use machine learning tools to build a database of past conflicts in the Arctic and Bering and Chukchi seas to under-

stand the historical context of disputes in that region, which has a known history of fishing conflicts. It is also a region where sea ice is declining rapidly, opening new areas for fishing and leading to shifts in where marine animals spend time.

That data will be combined with economic data on fisheries and climate change models to develop models showing how climate change may impact where fish, and subsequently fishing, may move, the potential economic impacts on communities and where those shifts could lead to conflict, said Watson, who specializes in marine social-ecological systems and understanding complex adaptive systems.

“In addition to movement of the fishery, you can also have compression, where the fish and the fishery shift to a smaller space, which can also lead to issues if fleets

Beach goers asked to keep away from resting seals, sea lions

from different nations try to get the same value out of the ocean even though it is compressed,” he said. “Using Earth systems modeling, we can establish where we are likely to see these kinds of issues arise.”

This kind of research could help inform world leaders so they can prepare for expected changes and work to alleviate associated risks, Watson said.

“In today’s highly connected world, small tensions can quickly escalate and spiral out of control,” he said. “If we can pinpoint when and where those tensions might occur, that could help prevent that.”

Michelle Klampe is a writer-news researcher at Oregon State University Relations and Marketing. She may be reached at michelle. klampe@oregonstate.edu or at 541-737-0784.

STAFF REPORT

Country Media, Inc.

It’s a busy time of year on the Oregon Coast with visitors sharing the beaches with seals and sea lions.

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) asks beach goers to keep away from seals and sea lions resting on the beach or rocks.

Pacific harbor seal pupping season is in full swing, A harbor seal mother often leaves her pup alone on shoreline rocks or the beach while she feeds in the ocean. This is an important time for her to refuel and later feed her pup, but she is unlikely to rejoin her pup if there is activity nearby.

Other marine mammals seen on beaches in summer include California sea lions stopping to rest during their

journey south to breed. And elephant seals are molting now – while it isn’t pretty, these animals are not sick.

All marine mammals are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act. It is a violation of federal and state laws to harass, touch, or feed marine mammals.

The Oregon Marine Mammal Stranding Network is primarily a volunteer organization. It generally does not provide rehabilitation services to harbor seals, elephant seals, and California sea lions in accordance with ODFW’s policy on marine mammal rehabilitation.

If a marine mammal is obviously injured, sick or being harassed, people can report to the Oregon State Police TIP line at 1-800-452-7888.

Courtesy photo from

The open houses will provide communities and stakeholders an opportunity to ask questions, share perspectives and speak with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service staff about sea otters and next steps in recovery efforts.

Courtesy photo from the Oregon Coast Aquarium

Sunflower stars are a keystone species, native to the coastal waters of the Northeast Pacific Ocean.

Courtesy photo from OSU

The research includes looking at sea ice declines.

Courtesy photo from Steven Conner

A Pacific harbor seal and her pup rest near Depoe Bay.

Housing

Continued from Page 1 foundation, forming a new home to replace the one that Barbara and Scott Benedict lost to the 2020 Echo Mountain fire near Lincoln City.

The new home has been donated by the nonprofit Cascade Relief team to the Benedicts. The couple expects to move into their new home in late July. The 1,136 square-foot home has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a den, and a laundry/ utility room. Appliances are included and the structure is fire-resistant and solar-ready.

“We’re so grateful for the help Hacienda has given us with this home. You can’t imagine what it’s like going from homelessness to a place of your own,” Barbara Benedict told reporters as the new home was placed in Otis.

Oregon is short 140,000 housing units and needs to build more than a half-million homes over the next 20 years in order to keep up with demand, according to Hacienda CEO Ernesto Fonseca. Gov. Tina Kotek has set a construction target of 36,000 units per year, an 80% increase over current production.

Boom

Continued from Page 1 space between Anchor Inn and Surfwood Manor on west side of Hwy 101)

$459,508

Market-rate housing

3. Wecoma Place (44 apartment units at NE 29th)

$5,079,897

Affordable housing

4. North Haven (conversion of hotel to studio apartments)

$641,500

Market-rate housing

5. South Haven (conversion of hotel to studio apartments)

$542,260

Market-rate housing

6. Sam Apartments (2611 NE West Devils Lake Road –18 units)

$3,500,000

Market-rate housing

7. Ebb Street Lofts 1 (4plex at 916 SW 48th)

$844,730

Market-rate housing

8. Ebb Street Lofts 2 (4plex at 918 SW 48th)

$844,730

Market-rate housing

9. Ebb Street Lofts 3 (4plex at 920 SW 48th)

$844,730

Market-rate housing

10. IHI Affordable housing (107 apartment units at NE 25th)

$20,781,756

Affordable housing

Carp

Continued from Page 1

These fish feed on a wide variety of aquatic weeds in natural water sources such as lakes, rivers, and streams, according to information released earlier by the DLWID.

A well-fed grass carp can grow up to 29 inches

“Oregon urgently needs more homes, not only for families displaced by disasters like wildfires, but for our many rural and urban communities that simply don’t have enough housing,” Fonseca said. “With Mass Casitas, we’re developing a process that could add many more homes throughout the state, at a faster pace than traditional construction.”

Project description

Mass Casitas is an innovative pilot project aimed at easing Oregon’s housing crisis. Prototype modular homes have been designed and developed with Oregon-grown mass timber. Delivery of the homes to communities began in May 2023 and will continue through the summer. The goal of the pilot project is to demonstrate how modular housing built with mass timber could provide a more efficient, faster and less expensive way to add urgently needed housing across the state.

Project team

Hacienda CDC (project lead — housing organization) Port of Portland (project

partner‚ providing warehouse space and fund management) Salazar Architect Inc. (design) Walsh Construction Co. (general contractor)

Freres Engineered Wood (mass timber supplier/expert) Production and delivery process

1. Mass timber enters warehouse at Port of Port-

land’s Terminal 2 as large panels, which are assembled into boxes, or modules (studio is 1 module; 2BR, 3BR models are 2 modules).

2. Modules are assem-

bled, four walls are framed.

3. Interior work — mechanical, electrical and plumbing installation.

4. Exterior work — windows, insulation, roof structures.

5. Modules are trucked to communities, placed on concrete foundations on-site (1-2 days)

6. Homes are affixed to foundations and hooked up to up to utilities; crews perform other finishing work (4- to 6-week process).

7. Community nonprofit partner or homeowner takes ownership of home. Destination communities for prototype homes Hacienda’s nonprofit partners will help select the people who will live in the homes.

Otis (Lincoln County, north coast) — (1) home; partner is Cascade Relief Team Talent (Jackson County, southern OR) — (2) homes; partner is CASA of Oregon Madras (Jefferson County, central OR) — (1) home; partner is CASA of Oregon Portland (Multnomah County) — (2) homes; partner is Community Vision

in length and weigh over 20 pounds in less than two years. The average lifespan of a grass carp is between 10 and 20 years old. Grass carp, like all cold-blooded animals, feeding rates are determined by water temperatures. Their optimum feeding levels are typically found in

water temperatures between 70- and 80-degrees Fahrenheit, making spring and summer the best time frames for stocking. The grass carp were introduced into the United

States in the early 1960s as a method of vegetation control. However, it was quickly discovered that grass carp reproduce at an alarming rate. In the 1980s, researchers and commercial producers began

producing sterile grass carp by manipulating the number of chromosomes in their genes. Triploid sterile grass carp started being used as a safer means of vegetation control.

Oregon law requires that any usage of sterile grass carp for vegetation control be verified and documented by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Jeremy C. Ruark / Country Media, Inc.

Work began last fall to clear a nearly 5-acre site just off Highway 101 in northeast Lincoln City for a 107-unit affordable housing project.

Courtesy photo

Barbra and Scott Benedict and their dog outside the family’s new modular home at Otis.

Jeremy C. Ruark / Country Media, Inc.

Families, friends, school officials and community members gathered for the 2023 Taft High School Graduation Ceremony Saturday morning, June 10 filling the school’s gymnasium. Approximately 100 seniors crossed the stage to accept their diplomas. The cerebration included speeches by student leaders, Taft High School Principal Nik Lupo, Taft School District Dr. Karen Gray, and guest speaker Matt Hilgers. See more photos and related coverage at thenewsgurd.com.