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RV goes up in flames

just north of 3rd Street. Crews were able to knock down the blaze within minutes. It appeared that the RV was not occupied.

fire could be seen from blocks as North Lincoln Fire & Rescue (NLFR) crews rushed to the SE 3rd Street location just east of Highway 101.

As crews arrived shortly after 10 a.m.

Thursday, June 22, they spotted a fully engulfed RV in the parking lot

The cause of the fire and estimated damages were not immediately available. There were no reported injuries.

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

Should sea otters return to Oregon waters?

Fish and Wildlife Service officials asks Oregonians for their input

ALEX BAUMHARDT

Oregon Capital Chronicle

News Guard Guest Article

Federal officials want Oregonians and Californians to weigh in on the potential return of threatened sea otters to their historic home.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is held eight open houses along the Oregon Coast this past week to share a proposal for reintroducing

southern sea otters — one of three subspecies of sea otter — to the Pacific Coast from San Francisco and up through northern Oregon.

The otters have been mostly absent for more than a century, and Oregon is the only state on the Pacific Coast that has no southern sea otters, according to a news release from the federal agency.

$153M to address Oregon’s behavioral health crisis

STAFF REPORT

Country Media, Inc.

Oregon legislative leaders have announced the$153 million Behavioral Health Care Delivery Budget Framework.

The investments will help strengthen the state’s behavioral health workforce, stabilize mobile crisis funding, and support response and recovery resources to ensure access to high-quality, affordable services for everyone who needs them, according to the legislative leaders.

Part of the framework is House Bill 2757, which passed out of the House Revenue Committee June 20. The bill will expand and build on American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding and programming for 9-8-8, the national suicide prevention hotline number launched in Oregon in summer 2022—a critical resource for Oregonians experiencing mental health crises, the legislative leaders said.

The 2023-2025 Behavioral Health Budget framework builds from the $1.3 billion down payment the legislature made in the 2021-2022 biennium.

“To respond to the needs in our behavioral health system we must invest in community-based services for Oregonians with acute needs,” Senate Majority Leader Kate Lieber (D - Beaverton and SW Portland) said. “Expanding access requires a continued commitment to improving infrastructure, bolstering successful community models and expanding the workforce.”

“Oregonians were clear that we need to get people the appropriate, high quality, and affordable care they need, Representative Rob Nosse (D - Inner SE & Inner NE Portland said. “Behavioral health is not one-size-fits-all, and there is no one way to approach it. But with this amazing budget package, we’re investing in key parts of Or-

Fast Fact

egon’s infrastructure to meet people where they are.”

The investments include:

$2.6 million for recovery schools (House Bill 2767)

$37.1 million for Oregon Health Authority programming (SB 5525), including:

$15 million for construction of additional substance use disorder (SUD) facility capacity

$7 million for Civil commitment services through Community Mental Health (CMHP) Programs

$6 million for transitional case management services for houseless patients released from the Oregon State Hospital

$6 million to expand the Health Care Provider Incentive Program (HCPIP)

$3.1 million to advance training opportunities for pediatricians and child psychiatrists

House Bill 2757 – dedicating funding for the 9-8-8, the suicide prevention and behavioral health crisis hotline

House Bill 5026 – Higher Education Coordinating Commission

$5.4 million – OHSU Mission Control for behavioral health

$10 million through the Criminal Justice Commission to fund justice-involved mental health or substance abuse disorders (IMPACTS) grants (Senate Bill 5506)

$4.9 million to Oregon Health Authority to fund jail diversion through CMHPs (Senate Bill 5506)

$3 million for Department of Administrative Services to resource the Community Based Mental Health Services Risk Pool (Senate Bill 5506)

$50 million to build out physical and provider capacity within the behavioral health system $40 million Other Funds limitation for opioid settlement investment in the 202325 biennium

The legislative leaders said several of the bills have already passed the floor or are part of various policy bundles, highlighting the intersectionality of the legislature’s work to address the behavioral health crisis from multiple angles this session.

“As a Registered Nurse, I have seen people of all different backgrounds, needs, and states come into care centers,” said “This budget means we can get people individualized, equitable care no matter who they are, where they live, or how much they make,” Rep-

resentative Travis Nelson (DN & NE Portland), vice chair of the Behavioral Health and Healthcare Committee and a State Hospital Board Member said.

Additional funding will be set aside for increased Medicaid reimbursement rates for behavioral health services to support the rising costs and high demand for care, with the goal of increasing access to high-quality services throughout Oregon. By leveraging an existing and steady stream of funding, the legislative leaders said the can ensure certainty for providers, and in turn, for patients and their families.

“Oregonians are calling out for greater investment in behavioral health,” Senator Winsvey Campos (D - Aloha) said. “This package will provide meaningful relief to Oregonians with behavioral health needs and their families, by improving access to life saving and life changing care.”

Lighthouse vandalized PAGE 6 Wild salmon harvest PAGE 4 June 27, 2023 Lincoln City’s Largest and Most Trusted News Source Since 1927 $1.50 Police Blotter 3 Opinion 5 Classifieds 7 Comics ...................... 11 INDEX WEATHER TheNewsGuard.com WED. THU. FRI. SAT. SUN. MON. TUE. 62 /52 64 /52 63 /51 63 /51 63 /51 62 /51 61 52 VOL. 96 NO. 24
A young southern sea otter grooming itself on the California Coast.
Photo courtesy from Lilian Carswell / U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
JEREMY C. RUARK Country Media, Inc. Smoke from a recreational vehicle (RV)
Jeremy C. Ruark / Country Media, Inc. Flames spread quickly through the RV. Jeremy C. Ruark / Country Media, Inc. Crews move in to put out the fire. The Behavioral Health Care Delivery Budget framework builds on 2021-2022 investments, stabilizes mobile crisis response funding and coordination between care centers and response systems See
OTTERS, Page 12

Freed Gallery presents

Meet the Artists events

SUBMITTED

What do wildlife art, abstract art and a trip to the moon have in common? Find out at the third of five “Meet the Artist” shows to be held at the Freed Gallery beginning July 1.

Featured wife and husband artists, Sandra Fraser-Dust and Ken Dust, will be featured. You’ll have the opportunity to view their work and talk about their different styles of wildlife art and abstract art. And, yes, here about Ken’s connection to the first man to the moon space flight.

Sandra Fraser-Dust describes her work best, “I want the viewer drawn into my painting and once there, I want the painting to take the viewer into a creative state of imagination--emotionally and intellectually. I prefer to work intuitively and try to let the paint have its own energy and vibration.”

Originally from Montana, she has lived in the world of art since childhood as her mother was a landscape artist.

Fraser-Dust’s art has a conformity and flow, moving gracefully from realistic wildlife subjects to vibrant precision abstract mixed media art. Her art has been exhibited and received awards and recognition across the country including Chicago, Arizona, Montana, Colorado, and Germany.

Ken Dust’s art talent was recognized by the Sisters of Notre Dame at the age of eight. He was the youngest student in the class of mainly adults. Dust’s generates his highly detailed wildlife art creations through the use of colored pencils. Some piec-

Courtesy photo Ken Dust

es may take several years to complete.

“Achieving the fine detail with colored pencils is like painting with a needle,” Dust said.

An abiding passion for nature is seen in Dust’s art and leads him to be actively involved in fish and wildlife preservation.

His award-winning work has been displayed in prestigious show and museums such as the Audubon Artists, North American Wildlife Exhibition, as well as other exhibitions and museums in the Southwest, Northwest.

A trip to the moon? At Lockheed Martin, Dust worked on the project that built the first and second stage of the rocket that was used on all the Gemini space launch vehicles. The Gemini program had to prove that man can endure the time it took, had systems for air supplies for breathing, could go into space and reenter the atmosphere without burning up. The first spacewalk was done from a Gemini capsule and that technology was used for

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

July 2 Pancake Breakfast and Book

Sale

8 a.m. to 11 a.m., 110 Azalea Street in Gleneden Beach. Menu includes scrambled eggs, ham or sausage, all-you-can-eat pancakes. $8 for adults, $5 for kids 6-12, and under 6 eat free. Cash only.

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 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 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 and contact phone/email to jruark@countrymedia.net.

the Apollo capsule that sent the first men to the moon.

The Freed Gallery 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.

Freed Gallery is located at 6119 Highway 101 in Lincoln City and may be reached at FreedGallery.com.

2 TheNewsGuard.com June 27, 2023 Coast Moment
Jeremy C. Ruark / Country Media, Inc. Seagulls along the beach as the tides moves in. See more Coast Moments at thenewsguard.com Courtesy photo Sandra Fraser-Dust

SHERIFF’S TIPS OF THE WEEK

Move over: its the law

LINCOLN COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

Every day, first responders take on personal risk to serve our communities and save lives. Even a routine traffic stop has become risky business. The following information comes from the Oregon Department of Transportation: www.oregon.gov/ ODOT.

There have been many cases where officers are pulled over on the side of the road when drivers have then crashed into them at high speeds. That’s why there’s a strict law in Oregon designed to help prevent these situations from happening again.

The Move Over Law (ORS 811.147) states that if you are approaching any type of emergency vehicle, tow truck or roadside assistance vehicle which is stopped on the roadside with emergency lights activated, you must: MOVE OVER into another available lane.

If you can’t safely change lanes, SLOW DOWN to a

Report of stolen dog leads to arrest

STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.

speed that is at least 5 mph below the posted or designated speed of the roadway.

In all cases, the driver must try to provide as much room as possible for the emergency vehicle, tow truck or roadside assistance vehicle.

The Move Over Law is in place to help protect law enforcement officers, emergency workers, tow operators and those who routinely provide assistance to motorists along the highways. This group of dedicated professionals face a deadly threat on a daily basis: speeding and inattentive drivers. But the law also exists to protect you. The flashing lights are your cue to move over and slow down.

If you are approaching the scene of a crash, carefully watch for emergency workers directing traffic and follow all of their instructions.

For more information and tips, visit our website at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon.

Police issue Green Dot fraud alert

JEREMY C. RUARK

Country Media, Inc.

The Brookings Police Department (BPD) has issued an alert concerning ongoing scam attempts involving Green Dot cards.

Bona fide government agencies and utility companies do not request payment via Green Dot, the Brookings Police alert states.

“A recent common scam is a phone call indicating the victim has won a large sum of money but needs to go and buy a Green Dot card to pay the taxes and/or fees in order to receive the award,” according to BPD.

Once the victim supplies the scammer with the Green

Dot card, their money is gone.

Here are other common Green Dot card scams: Scammer claims to be with a law enforcement agency and Green Dot card money is needed to “pay off” a warrant. Scammer claims to be a family member in need.

Scammer claims to be with the IRS and Green Dot money is required to pay back-taxes.

Scammer claims to be with the power company and Green Dot money is required to prevent disruption in service.

Call your local law enforcement agency if you believe you have been the victim of such a scam.

One person faces criminal charges after a report of a stolen dog in Siletz. According to the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO), the incident began at about 1 p.m. June 16, when a Siletz resident reported to LCSO deputies that her dog was missing. The resident suspected that the dog might have be stolen from of the fenced yard of the home on SE Swan Avenue in Siletz.

A LCSO Animal Services

deputy began an investigation and obtained information that a local man had formed bond with the dog by visiting it and feeding it through the fence several times a day.

The deputy located the male, identified as 38-year-old Nicholas Colman-Pinning of Newport, who was still in possession of the dog. The deputy and another LCSO deputy were able to reunite the dog with its family by 6 p.m.

Colman-Pinning was charged with first-degree theft for the theft of a companion animal.

POLICE BLOTTER

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

All individuals arrested or charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Information printed is preliminary and subject to change. For specific details about cases listed, contact the appropriate law enforcement agency.

Lincoln City Police

June 10

10:24 a.m.

Caller reports person causing issues with customers in the 3900 block of NE Highway 101. Officer recognized the person as having been previously trespassed. Person taken into custody and transported to jail.

2:37 p.m.

Traffic crash reported at in the 1000 block of NW 6th Court. Caller reported driver had backed into a garage and then pulled forward and hit another building. North Lincoln Fire & Rescue and Pacific West Ambulance responded for patience evaluation. Northwest Natural and second damaged building resident notified.

3:28 p.m.

Caller advised dog bite in the 2400 block of NE 29th Street. Dog owner cited and released for maintaining dangerous dog.

June 11

2:30 a.m

Subject contacted at SW Ebb Avenue and SW 48th Street during noise complaint. Subject taken into custody for Linn County warrant and transported to jail.

12:33 p.m.

Traffic stop initiated in the 2000 block of NE Highway 101. Front plate of vehicle missing. Reported stolen sometime in April. Rear plate seized for safe keeping.

3:51 p.m.

Report of male trying to stop traffic in the 200 block of SE Highway 101. Witnesses said subject attempted to grab female patron in the area. Male taken into custody and transported to jail.

6:56 p.m.

Caller reports subject broke all her windows in her vehicle with a crowbar.

Oregon State Police

June 2, 2023

3:46 p.m.

A Gray Honda SUV was

called in by several other vehicles due to the SUV crossing into oncoming traffic on SW 50th Street in Taft and almost causing several head on crashes. The vehicle was located and the driver showed signs of impairment. The driver was arrested and lodged in the Lincoln County Jail.

June 3

7:55 a.m.

A suspicious person call came in from Seal Rock. A volunteer at the state park saw a group of individuals climbing onto the rocks in a forbidden area. The group was contacted and given contact information for a federal fish and wildlife agent.

10:35 a.m.

A two-vehicle collision occurred on Highway 101 at milepost 135. Unit 1, a green Kia Soul, drove into oncoming traffic and caused unit 2, a commercial motor vehicle, to drive onto the shoulder. Unit 2 was unable to avoid unit 1, and unit 1 struck unit 2’s trailer by the rear tires. There were no injuries reported on scene. Unit 1 was towed by Coast Towing.

1:13 p.m.

A two-vehicle collision occurred on Highway 20 at milepost 34. Unit 1, a black Chevrolet Tahoe, was passing

in a no passing zone when it struck unit 2, a blue Cadillac XT5 in the driver’s side door. Unit 2 was attempting to turn left into a driveway. The driver of Unit 1 was cited for passing in a no passing zone. No injuries were reported on scene. The driver of Unit 1 arranged for their own tow. Unit 2 was able to drive from the scene.

1:49 p.m.

A non-injury crash occurred on Highway 29 milepost 28 when the driver of a silver Outback Legacy swerved to avoid hitting the vehicle directly in front, losing control and crashing off the northbound shoulder into a tree. The driver and passenger were transported to Samaritan Pacific Communities Hospital for treatment. The vehicle was towed by the registered owner.

3:59 p.m.

A blue Toyota Tacoma was stopped on Highway 20 at milepost 15 for failing to yield right of way while turning left onto HWY 20 from Elk City Road. The driver was found to be DWS –Misdemeanor and uninsured. The driver was cited for driving uninsured and arrested for DWS-Misdemeanor. The vehicle was towed by Rowley’s Towing.

June 4

10:18 a.m.

A red Honda Civic was stopped on Highway 101 at milepost 116 for registration sticker expired. The driver was found to be uninsured and was cited for registration sticker-expired and driving uninsured. The vehicle was towed by Car Care Tow Pro.

3 TheNewsGuard.com June 27, 2023
Courtesy from the LCSO The stolen dog and the pet owner were united following the investigation.

ODFW considering options for wild salmon harvest

RYAN HOOVER

Country Media, Inc.

Oregon anglers will have something of a say on what their fall salmon harvest looks like this year.

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) presented two harvest options with different bag limits they are considering, encouraging anglers to visit their website and vote on their preferred option, during a webinar June 14.

Upcoming changes that can’t be voted on for this fall season include lower bag limits, no stratum aggregate bag limits, ODFW building on previous actions like lowered deadlines, and new approaches to the Coastal Multi-species Conservation and Management Plan (CMP). Sean Clements, Fish Division Deputy Administrator with ODFW, said that the aggregate bag rule was removed because the strata – that is, the concentration of salmon in each region of the Oregon Coast – are not acting as one.

“The pattern we’re seeing now is that the strata aren’t behaving as one. So, measuring the stratum rule doesn’t make sense anymore,” Clements said.

Other upcoming changes include some rivers re-opening to wild Chinook retention this year, Siuslaw River and Tillamook River among the few. ODFW forecasted Coquille River and Elk River to be closed to wild Chinook retention this fall.

ODFW is still mulling

over which harvest option they would like to use for the fall wild Chinook season. The department presented two options at their June 14 webinar.

As always, each option would look different for each region of the Oregon Coast. Option 1 generally takes a more conservative approach.

ODFW states that option 1 “takes a consistent, coastwide, basin-specific approach to setting bag limits within a sliding scale framework recognizing recent issues.”

Option 2 allows slightly larger bag limits. ODFW states that option 2 “allows additional harvest this year in some basins based on the forecast but may increase the risk of impacting future opportunity.”

Under both options, bag limits are significantly less than 2022 in many basins.

For example, anglers were allowed two wild Chinook per day and ten during season in the Nehalem River last year. This year, option 1 allows one wild Chinook per day and two in the season, and option 2 allows one wild Chinook per day and five in the season.

For the South Coast, bag limits are set based on the Rogue Fall Chinook Species Management rules. The rules guide the management of fall Chinook along the Oregon Coast from the Winchuck River to Euchre Creek. Bag limits for this area are set based on a one- or two-year return plus the current forecast average. Because most of the South Coast operates under this rule, there is only one option avail-

able for this region.

ODFW is encouraging the public to visit their website and take the 2023 Coastal Fall Salmon Survey. The survey asks several questions, including questions regarding your preferred harvest option and the typical number of days you fish each fall.

To take the survey, go to www.myodfw.com. Search “Fall Coastal Salmon” in the search bar. Click the link that says, “Fall Coastal Salmon Management.” From there, you can submit questions or take the survey by June 23.

Here are the bag limits for each region of the Oregon Coast under both options, as presented by ODFW.

North Coast

Under Option 1

- 1 Chinook per day, 2 per season on Necanicum River. Includes hatchery Chinook.

- 1 Chinook per day, 2 per season on Nehalem River. Only 1 Chinook allowed during protective period

through September 15. 1 Coho per day, 2 per season. Includes hatchery Coho.

- 1 Chinook per day, 2 per season on Tillamook River.

Includes hatchery Chinook. 1 Coho per day, 2 per season. Includes hatchery Coho.

- 1 Chinook per day, 5 per season on Nestucca River. Includes hatchery Chinook. 1 Coho per day, 2 per season.

Under Option 2

- 1 Chinook per day, 2 per season on Necanicum River.

Includes hatchery Chinook.

- 1 Chinook per day, 5 per season on Nehalem River. Only 1 Chinook allowed during protective period through September 15. 1 Coho per day, 2 per season. Includes hatchery Coho.

- 1 Chinook per day, 2 per season on Tillamook River. Includes hatchery Chinook. 1 Coho per day, 2 per season. Includes hatchery Coho.

- 1 Chinook per day, 5 per season on Nestucca River. Includes hatchery Chinook. 1

Coho per day, 2 per season.

Mid Coast Option 1

- 1 Chinook per day, 5 per season on Salmon River. Includes hatchery Chinook.

- 1 Chinook per day, 5 per season on Siletz River. 1 Coho per season.

- 1 Chinook per day, 5 per season on Yaquina River. 1 Coho per season.

- 1 Chinook per day, 5 per season on Alsea River. 1 Coho per season.

- 1 Chinook per day, 2 per season on Yachats River.

- 1 Chinook per day, 2 per season on Siuslaw River. 1 Coho per season.

- 1 Coho per season at Beaver Creek.

Option 2

- 2 Chinook per day, 10 per season on Salmon River. Includes hatchery Chinook.

- 2 Chinook per day, 10 per season on Siletz River. 1 Coho per season.

- 2 Chinook per day, 10 per season on Yaquina River. 1 Coho per season.

- 2 Chinook per day, 10 per season on Alsea River. 1 Coho per season.

- 1 Chinook per day, 5 per season on Yachats River.

- 1 Chinook per day, 2 per season on Siuslaw River. 1 Coho per season.

- 1 Coho per season on Beaver Creek.

Mid-South Coast & Umpqua

Option 1

- 1 Chinook per day, 5 per season on Umpqua River. Includes hatchery Chinook.

- 1 Chinook per day, 5 per season on Coos River. In-

cludes hatchery Chinook. Includes 1 Coho per day, 3 per season. - Chinook closed on Coquille River. 1 Coho per day, 3 per season.

- 1 Chinook per season on Floras Creek. 1 Coho per day, 2 per season.

- 1 Chinook per day, 5 per season on Sixes River.

- Hatchery Chinook only on Elk River.

Option 2 - 1 Chinook per day, 5 per season on Umpqua River. Includes hatchery Chinook.

- 2 Chinook per day, 10 per season on Coos River. Includes hatchery Chinook. Includes 1 Coho per day, 3 per season.

- Chinook closed on Coquille River. 1 Coho per day, 3 per season.

- 1 Chinook per season on Floras Creek. 1 Coho per day, 2 per season.

- 1 Chinook per day, 10 per season on Sixes River.

- Hatchery Chinook only on Elk River.

South Coast – Everything operating under a permanent rule, making one scenario.

Option 1

- 2 Chinook per day, 20 per season on Roque River. Includes hatchery Chinook and Coho.

- 1 Chinook per day, 2 per season on Hunter Creek.

- 1 Chinook per day, 5 per season on Pistol River.

- 1 Chinook per day, 5 per season on Chetco River. Includes hatchery Chinook. - 1 Chinook per day, 5 per season on Winchuck River.

ODFW forecasts stable fall salmon season, long-term challenges

RYAN HOOVER Country Media, Inc.

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) is forecasting improved coastal salmon returns for the fall season, while also expressing concerns about the long-term health of Chinook populations along the Oregon Coast.

Optimism tempered with extreme caution was the general feeling that accompanied ODFW’s forecast during the Wednesday night, June 14 webinar. Much of the optimism stemmed from the forecast of a third-consecutive year of healthy Coho returns, but also from the fact a few rivers are re-opening to wild Chinook retention this year, Siuslaw River and Floras Creek among them. ODFW forecasted Coquille River and Elk River to be closed for wild Chinook retention this fall.

Sean Clements, Fish Di-

vision Deputy Administrator with ODFW, said that some of these improvements are due to 4-year-old Chinook returning this year.

“Expect improvements in some basins. That’s largely based on the return of 4-yearold [salmon], which is the historical majority of the runs on the coast,” Clements said. “These fish went out in 2020, which NOAA categorized as fair entry conditions. And that was an improvement from the bulk of the fish that came back last year, which had poor entry conditions.”

Despite the optimism, ODFW stressed their ongoing concerns in certain basins and the long-term environmental challenges. One major concern was the decline in wild Chinook populations in several basins over the last 10 years.

ODFW presented data that showed long-term declines in the Nestucca River and Siuslaw River’s Chi-

OBITUARIES

Gerald Slavens Johnson

July 22, 1945 – March 6, 2023

Jerry, also known as Boliver to his friends, Johnson was a one-of-a-kind man who lived a truly lucky life full of adventures, close lasting friendships, and a deep love with his wife of 47 years, Eva Jane Johnson. With great sorrow, we announce that Jerry, aged 77, passed away on March 6, 2023, after losing a long battle with cancer.

Born on July 22, 1945 in San Jose, CA. Jerry attended Saratoga High School, and spent most of his early years living in Los Gatos and Saratoga. His first job was working at Hubbard & Johnson Lumber, a company his father Chet started. Jerry was drafted into the Army in 1967, and later graduated from San Jose State University.

Jerry and Eva met in 1972, had an immediate connection, and later married in 1975. He raised Eva’s children Greg and Debra Heesch as his own. Sadly, their young son Casey preceded Jerry in death.

Jerry and family enjoyed living in San Jose’s Almaden Valley with second homes in Lincoln City, Oregon and Arizona. Witty with a great sense

of humor, Jerry was a very generous man, who lived his life to the fullest. He enjoyed a passion for travel, hunting, fishing, wine tasting, collecting antiques, and business.

As the owner of Los Gatos’ Rural Supply Hardware from 1968 to 1995, Jerry was a well-known and respected businessman in the area. He also owned Rural Sportsman in Los Gatos, West Side Hardware in Santa Cruz, an Arby’s in Indiana, and various antique related ventures. He was a fraternal member of the Masonic Lodge, the Elks, the Eagles, and Delta Upsilon.

Our beloved Jerry was the son of Chester and Mary Ellen Johnson and brother of

nook, with the Siuslaw’s Chinook well below critical abundance levels since 2015.

“So [there have been] a lot of changes, particularly since 2014,” Clements said. “A lot of that was associated with the shift to really poor ocean conditions. There are also things going on in fresh water that are impacting some of these runs.”

In addition, predation from smallmouth bass –which were illegally introduced to the Coquille Basin in the early 2010s – has led to the collapse of the Coquille Chinook population. Further, in the Umpqua River Basin, ODFW reported a return of under 200 Coho last year, down from an average of 2,000 to 12,000.

“What folks may not be aware of is what’s going on in Umpqua,” Clements said. “Umpqua is warmer than other coastal rivers. The temperature is also increasing. That leads to increased

Judith Ellen McCollough, all predeceased. Jerry is survived by his wife Eva Johnson and stepchildren Greg Heesch (of San Jose, CA) and Debra Heesch (of Vashon Island, WA).

Thomas Wayn Thornhill

Dec. 12, 1946 - June 19, 2023

Thomas Wayn Thornhill, 76, of Lincoln City, passed away at Samaritan Evergreen Hospice House on Monday, June 19, 2023.

stress on the juveniles and increased predation from striped bass. Our own survey data indicates issues across species and runs. Potentially there’s something developing in the Umpqua and we’re keeping an eye on that.”

Other long-term concerns included increasing freshwater harvest rates. In Umpqua Basin, freshwater harvest rates have gone up nearly 20% from the measured pe-

riod of 1986 to 1990 to the measured period of 2011 to 2020, according to ODFW data. At the same time, oceanwater harvest rates have decreased over the last couple of decades.

The final long-term concern centered on environmental changes such as warming sea temperatures. ODFW reported that the Northeast Pacific Ocean is currently experiencing its warmest

sea temperatures in 40 years, which can ultimately impact the department’s forecasting accuracy. While ODFW stressed caution and the need to manage coastal salmon populations closely moving forward, they also recognized that Oregon is an exemplar for other states. California closed all recreational salmon fishing this year because of low returns.

TheNewsGuard.com June 27, 2023 4
Courtesy photo To take the survey, go to www.myodfw.com.

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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.

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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.

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Walkout problem needs a constitutional solution

It’s time to acknowledge, after watching this year’s Oregon legislative session, that Plan B didn’t work, and Oregon needs to try Plan A.

Both plans concern the same problem: Just over a third of the state’s legislators in the House or Senate can prevent that chamber from assembling a quorum, without which it can conduct no business.

In recent years, and at present, the minority keeping the state from doing its job has been Republican. Further in the past, that has been, and possibly at some point in the future could be, Democrats. Either way, there now is no reason to believe that any discontented group amounting to slightly more than a third of the seats of either legislative chamber has any incentive to allow the state’s business to be conducted if it wants to block a proposal it opposes.

This happens because Article 4, Section 12 of the Oregon constitution says, “Two thirds of each house shall constitute a quorum to do business, but a smaller number may meet; adjourn from day to day, and compel the attendance of absent members.”

That part about compelling hasn’t worked very well.

The current setup is a recipe for destruction of a third of Oregon’s state government, since one party or the other will always be in the minority. The quorum-denying tactic now is being used so regularly – over simple differences of policy or philosophy – that it is eroding the ability of the state to operate.

An overwhelming majority of Oregon’s voters appear to see it that way. Last November, after a string of quorum-killing walkouts in recent years, a group of petitioners offered Measure 113 in an effort to end the practice. It amends the state constitution so that any legislator who racks up 10 or more unexcused absences in a session is disqualified from serving in the Legislature in the following term. The measure got approval from 68.3% of the voters.

Probably most of those voters, and apparently most political watchers around the state, thought the penalty would be strong enough to end the walkouts. It wasn’t, as Oregonians now know: 10 senators (nine Republicans and one independent) have stayed away more than 10 working days, without excuse, thereby triggering last year’s penalty against them, barring them from serving as a legislator after their current term.

That done, there’s no more penalty to impose. The striking legislators say they are un-

bowed and will allow no work this session (including on bills they themselves support) except for the state budget, and no path if the Democrats insist on maintaining certain bills, including House Bill 2002 on abortion rights and gender-affirming care, as they are now.

That so many Republicans (and one aligned Independent) proved so willing to give up their seats was widely unexpected and also remarkable. It provides the clear evidence that Measure 113 has failed.

The good news is that, all along, it was Plan B. Time has come now to take another crack at Plan A.

The right way to approach the two-thirds quorum problem from the beginning would have involved a constitutional amendment, but more directly: Change the two third requirement in the constitution section quoted above, to a simple majority (50% plus one). That would allow just over half of either chamber to conduct business.

It’s easy to understand, clear and would solve the problem.

It’s also been discussed before, at length.

In 2019, amid another walkout, then-state Senator Ginny Burdick said she would promote a proposed constitutional amendment to set the Legislature’s quorums – for each body – at a simple majority for each chamber (16 members of the Senate or 31 members of the House). Just such a resolution to amend the constitution with a popular vote was introduced early in 2020 and progressed through a public hearing and work session. Then steam seemed to run out of the effort, and it died in committee without reaching the Senate floor.

Another bill is now being proposed by Reps. Khanh Pham of Portland and David Gomberg of Otis.

The idea is not radical. Oregon currently is an outlier when it comes to the quorum numbers. Among the 50 states, only four states – Oregon, Indiana, Tennessee and Texas – mandate two thirds. (Is it coincidental that all four have experienced troubled legislative sessions this year?)

The Oregon Legislature this year probably won’t be able to act to place a constitutional amendment on the ballot, but the same forces that developed the petition campaign for Measure 113 last year, and pushed through its approval, probably could. Or someone else could step forward.

Either way, if Oregonians expect to have their ballot-expressed will carried out at the statehouse, the next step is obvious.

Randy Stapilus is a columnist for the Oregon Capital Chronicle.

State unemployment rate falling

STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.

Oregon’s unemployment rate dropped to 3.7% in May, down from 4.0% in April, according to the latest Oregon Employment Department survey. This was the fourth consecutive monthly drop in the unemployment rate, down from a recent high of 4.8% in January.

The May rate was similar to rates in February through May 2022, when it ranged from 3.5% to 3.7%. Oregon’s May unemployment rate of 3.7% equaled the U.S. unemployment rate, which rose to 3.7% in May from 3.4% in April. In May, Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment rose by 3,600 jobs, following a revised gain of 500 jobs in April. Overthe-month gains were largest in financial activities (+1,200 jobs), leisure and hospitality (+1,100), and transportation, warehousing, and utilities (+1,000). Declines were larg-

Fast Fact

The Oregon Employment Department reports 2,058,583 employed and 68,105 unemployed across the state in May.

est in retail trade (-500 jobs) and government (-300). Since May 2022, Oregon has added 39,100 nonfarm payroll jobs (+2.0%).

Leisure and hospitality, while still adding jobs, has grown at a slower rate during the past 12 months than during its rapid partial recovery during much of 2020 and 2021. Its component industry, accommodation and food services, which employed 177,000 in May, added 4,800 jobs in the past 12 months. Meanwhile, arts, entertainment, and recreation, which employed 27,600 in May, added 2,800 jobs in that time. Despite these recent gains, leisure and hospitality is still 11,900 jobs (-5%) below where it was in February 2020, just prior to the Pan-

demic Recession. Professional and business services job gains have decelerated over the past year. It added 5,200 jobs since May 2022, growing at the same rate of 2.0% as Oregon’s total nonfarm payroll employment. But at a total of 268,000 jobs in May, professional and business services is well above its pre-recession peak figure of 257,700 jobs in February 2020.

Local government, at 229,700 jobs in May, was back near its pre-recession total. This sector, which includes schools and city and county governments, took about three years to fully rebound from the Pandemic Recession cutbacks during 2020.

Retail trade employment ticked down 500 jobs in May. Industry employment has been steady recently, coming in at 208,800 in May, which was close to its jobs totals of 2017 through 2023, with the exception of the recession-induced plunge of 2020.

LCPD to conduct active shooter training

STAFF REPORT

Country Media, Inc.

The Lincoln City Police will be conducting active shooter response training exercises on June 27 and 28, to better prepare officers to respond to an active shooter type event should one occur in the city.

The training exercise will be taking place at the Taft Elementary School campus, 4040 High School Drive, in Lincoln City.

“We want to alert the public in hopes of minimizing any alarm or confusion that may occur when people see a large concentration of officers and police vehicles at the school.” Lt. Jeffrey Winn said. “The training exercise will be occurring during summer break

when no students will be present at the school, and the only school staff that may be present will be those scheduled to

take part in the exercise.”

Signs will be posted outside the school indicating that a training exercise is underway. The training event is not open to the public and access to the school will be restricted while the training exercises are being conducted.

“The Lincoln City Police would like to extend a big thank you to the Lincoln County School District for allowing the use of their building for this training exercise,” Winn said. “The cooperation of all our emergency response agencies and our school district partners is crucial to helping keep the communities and citizens of Lincoln County safe.”

TheNewsGuard.com June 27, 2023 5
Lincoln City, OR 97367 and at additional mailing offices. © 2020 The News Guard. USPS 388-100 Published Weekly by Country Media Inc. 1818 NE 21st Street Lincoln City, Oregon 97367-0848
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STAPILUS Oregon Capital Chronicle News Guard Guest Column
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Courtesy from Amanda Loman / Oregon Capital Chronicle Flags on a desk in the Senate at the Oregon State Capitol in Salem on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2023. Jeremy C. Ruark / Country Media, Net. Lincoln City Police officers conduct an active shooter training at Taft High School in 2019 as part of the agency’s preparedness efforts.

Police investigate vandalism at Heceta Head Lighthouse

Country Media, Inc.

A criminal investigation has opened at the Heceta Head Lighthouse following vandalism at the iconic Oregon Coast location.

According to Oregon State Police (OSP) the a criminal mischief incident was reported at 11:43 a.m. June 15, by an individual reported at the lighthouse and associated property, located at Highway 101 near milepost 178 in Florence.

The incident actually occurred at 8:43 p.m. June 14, as captured on surveillance video.

The footage revealed the presence of four individuals

approaching the lighthouse and its buildings. Among them, one subject was seen carrying a can of spray paint. Two of the individuals were observed breaking a window on the lighthouse building and attempting entry. Their activities were interrupted by an unassociated person who approached the scene, prompting all four subjects to flee. As a result of this incident, one of the associated lighthouse buildings was vandalized with spray paint, and signage along the trail from the parking lot to the lighthouse was also affected. Oregon State Parks Ranger Burke Martin estimates the cost to repair the damage to be between $10,000 to $20,000.

OSP is actively investigat-

ing the case and is requesting additional information or evidence that could lead to the identification of the pictured suspects involved.

Anyone with information relating to this incident is urged to contact the Oregon State Police Dispatch Center at *OSP (*677) from a mobile phone or 800-442-0776. Reference case # SP23-178524.

“We appreciate the cooperation and support of the community in assisting us with this ongoing investigation,” the OSP stated in a release.

The Oregon State Police is working closely with Oregon State Parks to preserve and protect the Heceta Head Lighthouse, describe as a historical landmark.

50-cent surcharge on alcohol for mental health services nixed

LYNNE TERRY Oregon Capital Chronicle

News Guard Guest Article

State agency issues home improvement scams advisory

STAFF REPORT

Country Media, Inc.

Home improvement scams are most prevalent in summertime, and consumers should be on the lookout for the warning signs of a scam, according to an advisory issued by the Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB).

Many home improvement scams start with a door-todoor solicitor who offers to sell home improvement services and requests access to your house.

“They may want to see your roof or crawl space. Or, they may show you leftover paving materials and ask to repave your driveway at a discounted rate,” CCB Enforcement Manager Vena Swanson said. “That’s a red flag,”

Swanson also recommends not to let strangers into your house or take pictures of your home without your permission.

Many home improvement scams follow a formula, and can be identified by tell-tale signs:

Door-to-door solicitors often ask for access to the house (roof, attic, crawl space, etc), then offer to make immediate repairs

They may show the homeowner pictures of damage after gaining access to the house

They may say they have leftover materials from a previous job, allowing them to do the work for a very low cost

Solicitors (door-to-door or phone) often offer limited time deals and/or in-house financing

Do your homework before hiring a contractor

“As always, it’s important to check the license,” Swanson said. The CCB’s license search feature allows homeowners to verify a contractor’s license

is active. They can also look up 10 years of history on any contractor’s license, including complaints and disciplinary actions. Once the homeowner has reviewed the contractor’s license history, they can make an informed decision about that contractor.

The CCB also recommends: Get a contract. Contracts are required for jobs over $2,000, but CCB recommends getting a contract for jobs of all prices.

Check references. “Ask lots of questions,” Swanson recommends. “When you put it into the context of inviting someone to do work in your home – you’re inviting strangers into your safe space. By checking references, you come to know other people’s firsthand experience.”

Vet multiple contractors. Research at least three contractors for large home improvement projects. Meeting with multiple contractors puts the job into perspective by allowing you to compare prices, timelines and more.

Consumers agree, checking the license Is Important

A recent survey showed that 95% of Oregon homeowners agree it’s important to hire a licensed contractor. Hiring a licensed contractor gives consumers access to protections, such as CCB’s mediation services. Licensed contractors also carry a bond and insurance that provide additional protection when home improvement projects go wrong.

Hiring an unlicensed contractor leaves homeowners with few options when problems arise. Disputes between homeowners and unlicensed contractors can be settled in court, but many homeowners

Gov. Tina Kotek has dropped her request for the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission to add another 50-cent surcharge to bottles of alcohol to fund mental health and addiction services. She asked for the surcharge in her February budget. But on Wednesday, she sent a letter to the commission’s board, saying the tax was no longer needed.

“Since my recommended budget was originally released, there have been two revenue forecasts indicating there will be sufficient resources to fund essential services in the next biennium without the surcharge,” she wrote. “Additionally, I have been clear that I only support a new surcharge if the funds are directly allocated to behavioral health services. Without further specific action by the Legislature this session, any surcharge approved by the commission would go into the general fund with no designated purpose, undermining the purpose of the recommendation.”

The Legislature has yet to pass a budget due to the continuing Republican-led walkout in the state Senate, which has brought floor votes to a halt. They object to a bill to expand access to gender-af-

firming care and guarantee abortion rights for minors. The session has to end by June 25, and a continuing stalemate will leave hundreds of bills on the table.

The surcharge would have doubled the tax on bottles of hard alcohol, raising $90 million over the next two years for behavioral health care and addiction services. The proposal was supported by advocates, primarily Oregon Recovers, a Portland-based group that supports people in recovery. The group’s executive director, Mike Marshall, said in a statement that Oregon Recovers was disappointed by the decision.

“Oregon must change its destructive relationship with alcohol and raising the price of distilled spirits is the sin-

gle, most effective action the OLCC can take to end Oregon’s alcohol addiction crisis,” Marshall said. “The Liquor Control Act empowers and mandates the OLCC protect Oregon taxpayers from the economic damage caused by alcohol consumption and protect Oregon consumers from the devastating health consequences due to the current industry-friendly pricing structure. OLCC commissioners must stop prioritizing their personal financial interests over what is in the best interest of all Oregonians.”

The tax was opposed by many in the liquor industry, who said it would have a major impact on their revenue.

The commission had been gathering public comments on the tax and was due to

vote on it on Thursday, June 15. A spokesman also did not respond to a request for comment by mid-afternoon Thursday.

The pullback drew praise from the industry. Tom Burkleaux, president of the Oregon Distillers Guild, released a statement thanking Kotek for her decision.

“We appreciate the governor’s office has listened to Oregon’s craft distillers about how this proposed increase would disproportionately hurt our local producers that make higher-cost, premium products,” the statement said. “This surcharge increase would have had a detrimental effect on our smaller Oregon businesses, which cannot absorb a price increase compared to larger out of state brands.”

Burkleaux said industry executives were willing to work on alcohol and drug addiction.

A December 2021 nationwide survey showed that Oregon has the fifth-highest rate of alcohol addiction in the country, the second-highest rate for drug addiction and the second-highest rate of mental illness.

Kotek said in her letter that improving mental health services remains a priority for her administration, and she called on continuing discussions with the commission on how it can “better support” behavioral health services.

Legislation increases housing options in rural Oregon

STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.

During the final days of the Oregon Legislature, the Oregon Senate approved Senate Bill 1013, a measure to allow siting of one recreational vehicle (RV) on a rural residential zoned property, increasing housing options in rural Oregon.

Current regulations limit rural residential properties to a single dwelling and define “rural use” as one dwelling

per ten acres. Recreational vehicles (RVs) are defined in statute as vehicles with or without motive power that are designed for use as temporary living quarters. Current law restricts local governments from prohibiting the placement or occupancy of an RV, or from imposing any limit on the length of occupancy of an RV as a residential dwelling, provided the recreational vehicle is located in a manufactured dwelling park, mobile home park or recreational ve-

hicle park, a release from the Oregon Senate Republican states.

Sen. Cedric Hayden (R-Fall Creek) introduced and co-chief sponsored the bill.

“One of the greatest responsibilities the Legislature was tasked with this session

was finding ways to increase the supply of housing and stabilize Oregon’s workforce,” Hayden said. “We often struggle to find employees to fill essential jobs in rural communities in part because there is nowhere to rent.

See HOUSING, Page 12

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STAFF REPORT
Courtesy photo The Oregon State Police is asking the public for assistance in identifying these people allegedly involved in the vandalism at Heceta Head Lighthouse. Metro
Creative Connection
Disputes
between homeowners and unlicensed contractors can be settled in court, but many homeowners simply give up and accept the cost of repairing the damage themselves.
Metro Creative Connection Addiction experts warn against excessive drinking. See SCAMS, Page 12

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Public Notices 999

NG23-507 IN THE CIR-

CUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF LINCOLN In the Matter of the Estate of: THERESA A. BELL, Deceased. Case No. 23PB04353 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that JAYNE G. ROBINSON has been appointed personal representative. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present them, with vouchers attached, to Personal Representative, JAYNE G. ROBINSON, at the address below, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice, or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings may obtain additional information from the records of the court, the personal representative, or the attorneys for the personal representative. ADDRESS FOR PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE: c/-o Attorney David V. Cramer, OSB #992479, Zantello Law Group, 2941 NW Highway 101, Lincoln City, OR 97367. DATED and first published: June 27, 2023. David V. Cramer, Attorney for Personal Representative.

NG23-508 Lincoln City Storage, 3796 SE Hwy 101, Lincoln City, Or. 97367, 541-996-3555. The following unit will be sold at Public Auction Starting 7/18/2023 at 9:00am Ending 7/25/2023 at 9:00am for non-payment of rent and other fees. Auction to be pursuant to Auction Rules and Procedures for Truax Holdings. Rules are available at the facility office. All bidding will take place ONLINE at bid13.com. Unit#LB28 Dana Frost.

NG23-499 SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION Case No.: 23CV20237 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF LINCOLN NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC D/B/A MR. COOPER, Plaintiff, vs. CRAIGE GARY MCCOY AKA CRAIGE MCCOY; OCCUPANTS OF THE PROPERTY, Defendants. To: CRAIGE GARY MCCOY AKA CRAIGE MCCOY You are hereby required to appear and defend the Complaint filed against you in the above entitled cause 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 will apply to the court for the relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: READ THESE PAPERS CAREFULLY! You must “appear”

in this case or the other side will win automatically.

To “appear” you must file with the court a legal paper called a “motion” or “answer.” The “motion” or “answer” (or “reply”) must be given to the court clerk or administrator within 30 days of the date of first publication specified herein along with the required filing fee. It must be in proper form and have proof of service on the plaintiff’s attorney or, if the plaintiff does not have an attorney, proof of service on the plaintiff. If you have questions, you should see an attorney immediately. If you need help in finding an attorney, you may call the Oregon State Bar’s Lawyer Referral Service at (503) 684-3763 or toll-free in Oregon at (800) 452-7636. If you are a veteran of the armed forces, assistance may be available from a county veterans’ service officer or community action agency. Contact information for a local county veterans’ service officer and community action agency may be obtained by calling the 2-1-1 information service. Additionally, contact information for a service officer appointed under ORS 408.410 for the county in which you live and contact information for a community action agency that serves your area can be found by visiting the following link: https://www. oregon.gov/odva/services/ pages/countyservices.aspx and selecting your county. You can also access a list of Veterans Services for all Oregon counties by visiting the following link: https://www.oregon.gov/ odva/ Services/Pages/AllServices-Statewide.aspx. The relief sought in the Complaint is for declaratory relief of reformation of Sheriff’s Deed and to affix the manufactured home believed to be located at 4023 Siletz Hwy, Lincoln City, OR 97367. Date of First Publication: McCarthy & Holthus, LLP s/ John Thomas 6/2/2023 John Thomas OSB No. 024691 920 SW 3rd Ave, 1st Floor Portland, OR 97204 Phone: (971) 201-3200 Fax: (971) 201-3202 jthomas@mccarthyholthus.com Of Attorneys for Plaintiff IDSPub #0186290 6/20/2023 6/27/2023 7/4/2023 7/11/2023.

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, towit; 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: R435894/06-10-29DC-00300, R438310/0610-29-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 to cure the default in payments to date is calculated as follows: From: 11/1/2011 Total of past due payments: $139,627.73

Late Charges: $1,157.60

Additional charges (Taxes, Insurance, Corporate 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

Authorized to sign on behalf of the trustee A-4782077 06/13/2023, 06/20/2023, 06/27/2023, 07/04/2023

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New food and wine festival coming to Neskowin

SUBMITTED

The Neskowin Farm & Feast, a new coastal food and wine festival, will take place in Neskowin this summer on Saturday, August 5.

This exciting event presents local culinary talent, farms, Oregon wines, craft cider, beer, and boutique distilleries within a 150-mile radius of Neskowin. This year’s lineup of Oregon purveyors features an eclectic group, from local oysters by Jandy Oyster Company to minority-owned wineries like Alumbra Cellars to freshly farmed dulse seaweed by Oregon Seaweed.

“We focused on connecting with up-and-com-

ing purveyors to give them a platform and space to tell their stories and connect with guests through an intimate festival experience,” Neskowin Farm & Feast Festival Director Kelsey Leatherman said. “We also selected vendors that are intentional with their craft, female-owned, or bring awareness to our special place here on the Oregon Coast.”

Sip, savor, and mingle with over 30 wineries, breweries, and distilleries, while eight restaurants and caterers will offer a bounty of seafood, barbecue, baked goods, and more. Guests will receive a wine glass and cedar plank to taste and sip the festival delights, and will have the

Fast Fact

Proceeds from the event will benefit Neskowin Valley School, an accredited, independent PreK-8 school located in South Tillamook County. The school’s mission is to inspire joyful learning and to model intellectual curiosity, ethical conduct, and responsibility for each other and the natural world.

opportunity to purchase additional products they discover and love.

“Our inspiration for the festival was born from our love of our coastal farmer’s markets and garden parties. We wanted to create a space where guests can interact with vendors like a market and still have an elevated experience and closeness of a garden party,” Leatherman said.

Waldport sets park dedication

STAFF REPORT

Country Media, Inc.

The City of Waldport has scheduled a ceremonial groundbreaking for 10 a.m. July 3 at Southworth Park.

The Southworth Park project is the culmination of years of planning by the Waldport Council resulting in the successful award of $750,000 from the Oregon State Park’s Local Government Grant Program.

The groundbreaking will kick off the start of soliciting the planned playground, sports courts, restrooms and outdoor dining area Request for Bids and Proposals, expected later in July.

“This is the start of the actual construction of the park,” Walport City Manager Dann Ciutter said. “While there are still some decisions to

be made, it important we get some shovels in the ground and start building, as we will be asking the local construction companies to really step forward and help stretch our grant award to build the biggest park possible.”

Southworth Park sits in the heart of Waldport just east on Highway 34, with over seven acres of available space. A former site of the old Waldport High School, the site has a FEMA development easement which only allows for park infrastructure to be built. The soccer and baseball fields will be retained and improved, and several thousand feet of walking pathways installed as part of the new park installation. The culmination of the park entry will be the famed Louis Southworth bronze statue recently unveiled and temporarily housed

Art, Oysters & Brews returns to

Event is set for noon to 4 p.m.

July 1 in Toledo

SUBMITTED

The ART Toledo committee announces the return of the “Art, Oysters & Brews” event series will take place from 12 p.m.- 5 p.m. July 1, on the vibrant Main Street of Toledo.

The event promises to be a celebration of local and regional artists, live music, fresh oysters, and a lively beer and wine garden, creating an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

Art enthusiasts and community members are invited to immerse themselves in the rich Toledo art scene and witness the incredible talent of local and regional artists. The event will showcase an array of captivating artwork, ranging from paintings and sculptures to photography and mixed media, providing a diverse and dynamic exhibition of creativity. Attendees can also enjoy Toledo’s Phantom Galleries, vibrant and exciting murals as well as local art galleries.

One of the highlights of is the live music performances that will set the perfect ambiance throughout the day.

Paul Schuytema will perform “old school” acoustic blues at noon, singer/songwriter Chris

Toledo

Barron will take the stage at 1:45p.m. Ian Smith will take the stage at 3:30 p.m. to perform an eclectic selection of acoustic classic rock. For all the local foodies, the event features a tantalizing beer and wine garden where attendees can sample a wide variety of craft beers, fine wines, and refreshing beverages. Indulge in the local flavors while savoring the delectable taste of fresh oysters, sourced locally from the coastal waters of Oregon. The combination of exquisite art, harmonious melodies, and delightful refreshments promises to stimulate the senses and create lasting memories at this family-friendly event.

ART Toledo is also delighted to present a unique opportunity for community involvement with the community mural project. Families and individuals of all ages are encouraged to participate in this collaborative endeavor, where they can contribute to the creation of a captivating Main Street mural. Under the guidance of talented artists, attendees can lend their creative spirit and help paint a mural that will be unveiled to the public in early September, becoming a permanent fixture of the community’s vibrant art scene.

For more information, go to www.arttoledo.com, or call 555- 123-4567

Proceeds from the event will benefit Neskowin Valley School, an accredited, independent PreK-8 school located in South Tillamook County, whose mission is to inspire joyful learning and to model intellectual curiosity, ethical conduct, and responsibility for each other and the natural world.

Tickets for Neskowin Farm & Feast are on sale

now and can be purchased at www.neskowinfarmandfeast. com. This is a 21+ event.

For more information please contact Natalie Fields at 503501-8052 or info@neskowinfarmandfeast.com.

To learn more about the festival and see highlighted vendors, follow Neskowin Farm & Feast on Instagram @neskowinfarmandfeast.

Tillamook Coast Visitors Association

Neskowin Farm & Feast is proud to be sponsored by Tillamook Coast Visitors Association through their Sustainable Tourism Grant. The Tillamook Coast Visitors Association awards funding to eligible applicants for proj-

ects that support sustainable tourism efforts, supporting TCVA’s mission to “Create year-round economic vitality with respect to community, culture and environment.” Project work will begin in January 2022 and will spur future economic development and recovery for the tourism industry throughout the year and beyond. TCVA’s Tourism Grant Program awards grants up to $10,000 for both for-profit and nonprofit tourism businesses in Tillamook County

To learn more about the TCVA Tourism Grant Program, visit www.tillamookcoast.com/grants

TheNewsGuard.com June 27, 2023 8
Courtesy photo The Southworth Park dedication is set for 10 a.m. July 3.
TheNewsGuard.com June 27, 2023 9

Court upholds Indian Welfare Act

Supports of Indian rights are calling the latest U.S. Supreme Court ruling a historic win following the court’s ruling to keep the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) fully intact.

By a 7-to-2 vote June 15, the court upheld the law’s preferences for Tribes when Indian children are adopted, ruling that the law does not discriminate on the basis of race and does not impose a federal mandate on traditionally state-regulated areas of power, citing over a century of precedent that classifies Native Americans as a political, not racial, group. Oregon has its own ICWA law, known as the Oregon Indian Child Welfare Act (ORICWA). This law helps position the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) to better serve Tribal families and children, and the Supreme Court ruling validates the sovereignty of

all Tribes. ORICWA is an extremely important supplement to federal ICWA.

“The Indian Child Welfare Act is integral in the work of our agency as we strive to uphold Tribal children’s identity and cultural heritage,” ODHS Director Fariborz Pakseresht said. “We are so pleased with today’s ruling, and we are committed to continue to enhance protections for all Tribal children and support the Nine Tribes of Oregon.”

“This ruling is a huge sigh of relief for Tribes and Tribal families throughout Indian Country,” Kristi Petite of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde and co-chair of the ODHS Indian Child Welfare Act Advisory Council said. “As we’ve worked tirelessly to protect Tribal children and keep them connected to their identity, culture, and families, this decision will allow us to continue to advocate and promote healing for our families. Our ongoing relationship with ODHS will continue as we work together with the goal of

lowering the disproportionate rates that Tribal children experience in the child welfare system. It is also a reminder of the importance to continue to assure that our work reflects the intent and requirements of the Indian Child Welfare Act. Today is a great day to honor Tribes, Tribal Sovereignty, and the continued protection of Tribal families.”

“This decision is cause for celebration for Tribes and Tribal communities throughout the country,” ODHS Office of Tribal Affairs Director Adam Becenti Navajo/Diné said. “The federal Indian Child Welfare Act keeps Tribal families intact, preserves Tribal culture and upholds Tribal sovereignty. Oregon is one of a handful of states who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to these principles by codifying these protections into state law. I couldn’t be happier for Tribal children and families and all of the ODHS staff whose frontline work upholds the Indian Child

Welfare Act. The decision to uphold all provisions of the Indian Child Welfare Act will have lasting impact for decades for Tribes. This win allows our agency to continue to implement our state’s Oregon Indian Child Welfare Act as well as continue to support the government-to-government relationship with the Tribes.”

ODHS interim Child Welfare Division Director Aprille Flint-Gerner said the federal Indian Child Welfare Act and the Oregon Indian Child Welfare Act are critical laws that protect Tribal children, families and communities.

I am grateful to see that the U.S. Supreme Court has upheld the constitutionality of the federal Indian Child Welfare Act,” Flint-Gerner said. “We honor the sovereignty and self-determination of Tribal nations and are committed to government-to-government collaboration when working with Tribal nations to support the needs of Tribal children and their families.

Metro Creative Connection

“The Indian Child Welfare Act is integral in the work of our agency as we strive to uphold Tribal children’s identity and cultural heritage,” Fariborz Pakseresht, ODHS Director.

In Oregon our Child Welfare Division Vision for Transformation commits us to dismantling the structures, underlying mindsets, and biases

that have contributed to and continue to contribute to the oppression of and disparate outcomes for Tribal children and families.”

Senate and House approve self service gas bill

STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.

House Bill 2426 gives drivers statewide the choice to pump their own gas, but at least 50% of the pumps must still offer attended service for elderly, disabled, or preference-driven customers

The Oregon Senate has passed House Bill 2426 with overwhelming bipartisan support. The new law gives Oregon drivers the choice to pump their own gas or receive service from a gas station attendant. Under the new law, at least 50% of the pumps must still offer attended ser-

vice for elderly, disabled, or preference-driven customers.

“This bill strikes a balance between consumer preferences, business needs, and employment considerations,” Chief sponsor of the bill Sen. Janeen Sollman (D - Hillsboro) said. “It provides Oregonians choice at the pump, while still protecting access for the elderly and disabled community members.”

According to a KOIN report, those testifying for the bill included gas station operators who said they are struggling to hire enough employees. Those opposing the bill expressed concerns about

Oregon Marine Board to meet

SUBMITTED

The Oregon State Marine Board will be meeting in Newport over two days. On June 27, beginning at 10 a.m. the Board will hold a work session with agency staff to discuss the Waterway Access Program at the Hatfield Marine Science Center, Guin Library in the Barry Fisher Room, 2030 SE Marine Science Drive. At 2:00 pm, the Board and agency staff will tour the Port of Newport and discuss the Clean Marina and Outfitter Guide Programs.

Beginning at 8:30 a.m. June 28 the Board will hold their quarterly meeting at the Oregon Coast Community College, 400 SE College Way, in Community Room #140.

The agenda items include:

Director’s report Clean Marina Program Update

Boating Facility Grants Executive Session ORS 192.660(2)(i), Agency Director Review

Public comments for this meeting will be accepted in writing or by attending the public comment portion of the virtual meeting. To provide oral testimony, regis-

ter with Jennifer Cooper no later than 5 pm on June 25, 2023. Public comments will also be accepted in writing until the end of the day on June 25, 2023. Register to speak or send written comments to jennifer.cooper@ oregon.gov or by U.S. Mail to Oregon State Marine Board, Attn: Jennifer Cooper, 435 Commercial St NE Ste 400 Salem, OR 97301.

Representatives of the news media and designated staff shall be allowed to attend the executive session. All other members of the audience will not be allowed in the room. Representatives of the news media are specifically directed not to report on or otherwise disclose any of the deliberations or anything said about these subjects during the executive session, except to state the general subject of the session as previously announced.

To view the agenda, Board materials, and for a link to the meeting live stream, visit the agency’s Public Meetings page. Meetings are conducted using Microsoft Teams and viewing may require the installation of a free Teams app for mobile devices.

It provides Oregonians choice at the pump, while protecting access for the elderly and disabled community members.

fairness to the workers that are on duty and safety at the pumps.

In 2015, legislators allowed self-serve gas during nighttime hours in rural and coastal counties to help fuel retailers and drivers. In 2017, they extended this allowance

to all hours in rural counties. Additionally, in 2020, 2021, and 2022, Oregon’s fire marshal temporarily lifted the self-service ban statewide during emergencies like wildfires and heatwaves. HB 2426 aims to simplify the existing patchwork rules

Metro Creative Connection

The new law would give Oregonians the choice to pump their own gas or receive service from a gas station attendant.

regarding self-service gas for all Oregonians, while protecting jobs and maintaining attendant services for Orego-

nians who want them. HB 2426 was sent to the Governor’s desk for consideration.

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Local teen qualifies for national motocross championships

MIKE WEBER

News Guard Guest Article

Tillamook High School

junior Timber Blanchard achieved the biggest milestone of his motorsports career as he took third place in the American Motorcyclist Association Northwest Amateur Regional qualifying races May 26-28 at Washougal Motocross Park in Washougal, Washington.

Blanchard, 16, rode his AB Repair/Fallon Logging sponsored KTM 125cc motorcycle in the 125 C Class while competing in a group of 32 riders that are considered as some of the best on West Coast. A total of over 400 riders in various age groups competed in 18 different classifications at the regional, which is one of the Northwest’s premier motocross events of the year.

The top four of finishers in the race qualified for the Monster Energy AMA Amateur National Motocross Championships July 31-Aug 5 at Loretta Lynn Ranch in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee. That prestigious event will certainly be extra special for Blanchard too since he’ll celebrate his 17th birthday July 30.

Blanchard had a fantastic performance while riding his motorcycle in two four-lap moto events on the 1.5-mile hillside track, which includes steep downhill sections, numerous jumps where riders get airborne and sharp hairpin turns.

Riders from six states and one from Canada competed with Blanchard in the race, while they were each hoping to achieve their goal and qualify for nationals. For Timber, it marked the sixth year that he tried to qualify for nationals, but he fell just short the previous five years.

Blanchard started competing at age four when his dad Aaron instructed him on how to ride a Honda 50cc motocross dirt bike that his older sister Grace, 22, was also riding. Timber followed in the footsteps of Grace and Aaron, who also competed in motocross races.

Aaron, 51, competed in races every week from 1987-1991 in the Wylder Promotions Thursday Night Motocross Series at Portland International Raceway (PIR).

Aaron and his wife Shawn took Timber to PIR for his first competitive race at age nine. Their family enjoyed

it tremendously and Timber has been competing in races at PIR every Thursday for the last eight years.

“It’s huge for anybody to qualify for Loretta Lynn Nationals,” said Aaron Blanchard, owner of AB Repair in Tillamook. “With riders trying to qualify from 50 states and only the top four from regionals make it, that’s a pretty impressive accomplishment. It has been a dream of his for a long time, but it was always out of reach. We knew he had a good chance this year, but actually getting it done was above our expectations. Timber was just thrilled to make it and it was a pretty exciting weekend for all of us. Going to nationals is the goal for everyone that competes in motocross.”

Timber Blanchard has several sponsors that help support him in his motocross racing career, including JMR Suspensioin, Dunlop Tires and Don G. Averill Trucking in Tillamook. In addition to racing at PIR and Washougal, Timber also races at a motocross facility in Woodland, Washington.

“Competing at this level sometimes makes it tough to find sponsorship,” said Aaron

Blanchard. “The majority of our sponsors are local people who have helped us out a lot.”

Timber is also a member of the Tillamook High School Drag Racing Club under the direction of Coach Johnny Begin. The group includes 2023 Tillamook High graduates Ethan Obrist, Seth Landolt, senior Landen Manley, juniors Cody Hoffert and Jaxsen Eggert and sophomore Seth Ellerbroek. Timber competed in the first race May 20 and drove the club’s 2000 Chevrolet Camaro at a speed of 126 miles per hour, while timing it a 11.3 seconds on the quarter-mile drag strip. The drag racers will compete in their next race June 16.

THS Drag Racing members who volunteer once a week to help the young racers include Roy Ellerbroek from E & E Auto Body in Tillamook and Tyson Price from SR Repair in Tillamook. Ellerbroek and Price help guide the students with the skills necessary to build a safe and reliable race car. The kids learn hands on skills while getting experience in welding and metal fabrication. The Camaro includes a total of over 28 local area sponsors.

Continued from Page 1

The otters are a keystone species, meaning many other marine species largely depend on them, and their absence has myriad effects especially on kelp and seagrass forests and species that depend on those oceanic forests. The otters eat sea urchins that attack kelp. The otter has been listed as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act since 1977. They were nearly hunted to extinction for their fur throughout the 1700s and 1800s.

Otters Housing

Continued from Page 6

Senate Bill 1013 is a low-cost opportunity to provide suitable housing options for people looking for employment while boosting Oregon’s rural workforce. I appreciate the efforts of Commissioner Tootie Smith who brought this concept to my office.”

Sen. David Brock Smith (R-Port Orford),is co-chief sponsor of the bill.

“We must remove barriers that keep family-wage

Scams

Continued from Page 6 simply give up and accept the cost of repairing the damage themselves. To verify the contractor has an active license: Visit www.oregon.gov/

The federal agency wants to give communities the chance to ask questions and to share any concerns about their return, including the potential for economic losses to the commercial shellfish industry. Southern sea otters consume more than 150 different species, including mussels, crabs and clams. The reintroduction of the otters could also result in restrictions or prohibitions on some fishing gear to protect the otters from becoming caught or hurt, according to the news release.

Scientists from the agen-

jobs from being filled in my community and across the state. Senate Bill 1013 gives our counties an opportunity to do this without a significant price tag,” Smith said. “We know workers turn down jobs after facing the harsh reality that there are little to no adequate housing options for them. Senate Bill 1013 is a viable addition to the toolbox to relieve the pressure on Oregon’s housing and workforce shortage,” Sen. Dennis Linthicum (R-Klam-

cy concluded in a feasibility study that the benefits of their reintroduction outweigh the potential negative impacts to fishing and shellfish harvesting. As a keystone species, their return would enhance the health of kelp and seagrass ecosystems and the fish that depend on them, potentially increasing some fish populations. Growing kelp and seagrass forests is also helpful for reducing ocean acidification and for trapping climate change causing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

About one-third of all sea otters today exist because of

ath Falls), co-chief sponsor of the bill, said.

“This bill is a result of a constituent concern – a woman could not park an RV on her sister’s property for use as a residence following the death of her husband. Our current land use regulations were leading to unnecessary financial hardship and the potential to become homeless.

For Clackamas County, this legislation offers a housing solution that extends into rural and unincorporated com-

see that the contractor carries the endorsement for residential work, and that the name and other information on the license matches the contractor you are considering.

reintroduction efforts in other parts of their historic range, which spanned from Baja, Mexico to Alaska and as far west as Japan.

Between 1969 and 1970, 59 sea otters from Alaska were reintroduced in coastal Washington, and today, the population has grown to more than 2,700.

See the full study at www. fws.gov/project/exploring-potential-sea-otter-reintroduction and follow developments at thenewsguard.com and in the Tuesday print editions of The News Guard.

munities and will support families and people in need,” Clackamas County Commissioner Tootie Smith said.

According to the Department of land Conservation and Development Department, Oregon needs to develop more than 550,000 new housing units across income levels to accommodate 20 years of population growth and account for current underproduction.

The legislation is awaiting the governor’s signature.

The CCB is the state agency licensing over 42,000 contractors. Virtually anyone who is paid to repair, improve or build a home must be licensed. Learn more about how to have a successful project at www.oregon.gov/ccb.

TheNewsGuard.com June 27, 2023 12 LOCAL SPORTS weddings anniversaries events photos & more!
Courtesy photo from Aaron Blanchard Timber Blanchard taking a jump on his bike at the beach.
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