Oregon State Parks to waive day-use parking fees on June 1 at 25 locations that normally charge them
Free outdoor fun is on the horizon! Celebrate State Parks Day with free parking and complimentary RV and tent site camping at all Oregon State Parks June 1 as well as special events at selected parks.
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department will waive day-use parking fees at the 25 locations that charge them — including Cape Lookout State Park — and camping fees for all tent, RV and horse campsites June 1.
For those whose appetite for the wonders of the Oregon State Parks system isn’t quelled by this free offering, a few greenbacks can buy endless returns. OPRD offers both a 12- and 24-month parking permit. A 12-month parking permit can be had for $30, while a 24-month parking permit will set users back $50. Passes can be purchased at https://oregonstateparks.reserveamerica. com/posProducts.do?contractCode=OR &posFilterCat=598053577, from most major state park offices, or from vendors statewide. The permit is transferable among vehicles. Online buyers receive a temporary permit to print and use. The permanent hang tag permit is mailed and should arrive within three weeks of purchase.
State Parks Day has been a tradition since 1998 in ORPD’s effort to thank Oregonians for their support of the state park system over many decades.
“Each Oregon state park is here today because of the support, investment and care from Oregonians and all visitors,” said Lisa Sumption, director of OPRD. “We host State Parks Day in June to show our appreciation for everyone’s commitment to preserving Oregon’s special places.”
Visit the stateparks.oregon.gov event calendar by visiting https://stateparks. oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=things-to-do. events for a list of additional events this summer.
For camping availability, check oregonstateparks.reserveamerica.com or visit first-come-first served sites: https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index. cfm?do=reserve.first-come.
The mission of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is to provide and protect natural, scenic, cultural, historic and recreational sites for the enjoyment and education of present and future generations. The department manages 254 Oregon State Parks comprising more than 100,000 acres. Learn more at stateparks. oregon.gov.
OREGON PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT will waive day-use parking fees at the 25 locations that charge them — including Cape Lookout State Park — and camping fees for all tent, RV and horse campsites June 1.
Stock photo
Pelicans facing mortality concerns
ODFW is investigating reports of sick and dead brown pelicans along the Oregon Coast.
Several pelican carcasses were collected in late April for testing. Lab results from two pelicans found in Newport came back negative for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. Additional test results are still pending to determine if disease or domoic acid toxicity may be involved.
Brown pelicans breed in southern California and migrate north along the Oregon coast in the spring. It is not uncommon for juvenile birds to become fatigued — especially during strong north winds — and stop to rest. Some of the pelicans reported to ODFW have appeared to be tired but otherwise uninjured juveniles.
THE DEATH of sick and dead brown pelicans is being investigated by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Brown pelicans are easily recognized by their large size, massive bill, and brownish plumage.
However, domoic acid toxicity caused by harmful algal blooms in southern California has recently sickened or killed dozens of brown pelicans and other wildlife. As of late April, ODFW is awaiting further testing to determine if domoic acid or another illness is contributing to the cases of sick or dead pelicans in Oregon.
ODFW says it is important to note that a current advisory is in place for the sport harvest of razor clams along the Oregon coast from Cascade Head to the California border due to elevated levels
of domoic acid. This advisory is based on toxin levels accumulated last fall. Razor clams are slow to clear toxins from their systems, but ODFW’s phytoplankton monitoring currently shows no harmful algal species off the entire Oregon coast. If you find a sick, resting or dead pelican, ODFW’s recommendation is to leave it alone and keep dogs leashed and away from wildlife. Rehabilitation options are limited and the best thing to do is to leave pelicans alone. ODFW district wildlife biologists along the coast are aware of this situation and the public does not need to report sick, resting or dead pelicans.
New law secures long-term recreational access
On May 28, Governor Tina Kotek signed S.B. 179, ensuring long-term public access to recreational opportunities on public and private lands in Oregon. The new law closes a critical loophole in the Oregon Public Use of Lands Act, which protects landowners who open their land free of charge for public use.
S.B. 179 enhances the recreational immunity provisions by including “walking, biking, and running” to the list of recreational activities, and removing the sunset provisions from the 2024 legislative session bill. Back in 2023, the City of Newport vs. Fields’ decision undermined the protections in the Public Use of Lands Act and had sweeping impacts on recreation, forcing many municipalities, nonprofits, land trusts and recreation groups who open land for recreation to consider closing trails due to the threat of litigation and liability.
During the 2024 legislative session, Coalition of Oregon Land Trusts worked with a coalition of recreation advocates to pass S.B. 1576, which amended the Public Use of Lands Act to provide temporary protections that ended in January of 2026.
S.B. 179 from the 2025 legislative session removes the sunset and makes the new protections for recreational use on public and private lands permanent.
The passage of S.B. 179 means that Oregonians can continue to have access to trails across the state – including the more than 90 land trust properties open for public use.
“All Oregonians deserve the opportunity to get outside and access our recreational areas,” said Senator Floyd Prozanski (D- Eugene), “I am proud to have worked with our coalition of supporters to reach a more permanent solution in S.B. 179 that will keep trails open for Oregonians and tourists that visit our beautiful state.”
“From hiking to birdwatching, Oregon’s land trusts provide so many opportunities for Oregonians to get out and enjoy special natural places,” said Joe Buttafuoco, executive director of COLT.
“COLT and our members applaud the work of the Oregon legislature and Senator Prozanski to protect public access to recreational opportunities by passing S.B. 179.”
The Tillamook Coast Visitors Association recently announced a new partnership with the national nonprofit Leave No Trace, unveiling the Tillamook Coast Seven Principles — a local adaptation of Leave No Trace’s proven framework for responsible recreation.
This collaboration is reportedly a first-of-its-kind effort on the Oregon Coast to develop a tailored, placebased Leave No Trace ethic, reflecting the region’s distinct ecosystems, communities, and challenges. The principles are designed to educate and inspire both visitors and residents to care for the coast while enjoying all it has to offer.
“Visitors come here for the beauty, the wildlife, the waves, and the small-town charm,” said Nan Devlin, executive director of TCVA. “But with increasing popularity comes increasing pressure on our natural and human resources. These Seven Principles provide an easy, memorable way for everyone to help protect what makes the Tillamook Coast special.”
The Tillamook Coast Seven Principles are:
1. Know Before You Go: Plan ahead, avoid peak times, pack essentials and put safety first.
2. Stick to Trails and Camp Overnight Right: Protect sensitive ecosystems by staying on designated paths and campsites.
3. Trash Your Trash and Pick Up Dog Poop: Litter and pet waste threaten both wildlife and water quality—pack
it out.
4. Leave It As You Find It: Preserve tidepools, artifacts, driftwood and native plants for future generations.
5. Be Careful with Fire: Know local fire rules, keep beach fires small and safe and never bury coals in sand.
6. Keep Wildlife Wild: Observe animals from a distance and never feed them; leash pets to protect both wildlife and your furry friends.
7. Be Kind to Locals and Other Visitors: Respect private property, support small businesses, share space and help maintain the welcoming spirit of the coast.
The principles are the result of collaboration between TCVA, Leave No Trace, public land agencies, nonprofits, and local residents, ensuring that the guidelines reflect both ecological science and community values.
“This partnership demonstrates leadership in sustainable tourism,” said Dana Watts, executive director of Leave No Trace, in her praise of the initiative. “Tillamook Coast is showing how local destinations can take ownership of their conservation message.”
The Tillamook Coast Seven Principles will be shared through signage, social media, brochures, visitor guides, and educational programs throughout the county. TCVA also plans to work with local businesses to display the principles in storefronts, vacation rentals and hospitality venues.
For more information, and to view the principles in detail, visit tillamookcoast. com/leave-no-trace-tillamook.
Photo courtesy of ODFW
PO Box 1085 Pacific City, OR 97135 Phone: 503-801-5221 tim@pacificcitysun.com
Tim Hirsch Editor & Publisher Vicky Hirsch Calendar Editor
Contributors: Sally Rissel
An Eye on Beach Safety
OHA
will monitor six Tillamook County beaches including Cape Kiwanda
The Oregon Beach Monitoring Program is kicking off the 2025 season by announcing the coastal recreation areas it will be keeping an eye on for bacteria during summer and early fall.
The OBMP, based at the Oregon Health Authority Public Health Division, monitors some of the most frequently visited beaches in the state. The list includes beaches where the program has found bacteria present, or beaches for which local partners and the public have requested monitoring due to potential pollution. To see a video about Oregon’s beach monitoring effort, visit https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=82GVixgeGsM.
Amongst the 24 beaches being monitored are two beaches in South Tillamook County — Cape Kiwanda in Pacific City and Neskowin Beach. Additionally, five other Tillamook County beaches will be monitored — beaches in Arch Cape (Short Sand Beach), Manzanita, Rockaway Beach, Twin Rocks, and Oceanside. The remainder of the targeted beaches are: Seaside Beach, Cannon Beach, Tolovana Beach State Park, D River Beach, Siletz Bay Beach, Beverly Beach, Agate
Beach, Nye Beach, Ona Beach, Seal Rock Beach, Heceta Beach, Bastendorff Beach, Sunset Bay Beach State Park, Hubbard Creek Beach, Harris Beach State Park, Mill Beach, and Crissey Fields State Recreation Site.
The OBMP season runs from midMay to mid-September. Advisories are issued for beaches that are actively being monitored within this sampling window. Other beaches will be investigated for inclusion in upcoming seasons.
The OBMP works with the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality to determine beaches that need monitoring based on several criteria. These criteria include pollution hazards present; previous monitoring data that identify water quality concerns; type and amount of beach use; and public input.
As part of an adaptive sampling plan, beaches and sampling locations are routinely re-evaluated to ensure available resources best protect public health.
A copy of DEQ’s beach evaluation is available upon request.
For more information and current beach monitoring conditions, visit: healthoregon.org/beach, or contact OBMP at Beach.Health@oha.oregon.gov or 1-877-290-6767.
Library to launch summer reading program
By VICKY HIRSCH of the Sun
Summer is on the horizon, which means the Tillamook County Library system’s 2025 Summer Reading Program is starting soon. The program, which will begin Monday, June 9 and run through Saturday, Aug. 2 will offer a variety of programs and activities for youth and adults.
Youth ages 0-11 years (going in to 5th grade) can sign up for Kids Summer Reading, while Teen Summer Reading is available for those ages 11-19 (6th grade and above.) There will also be an Adult Summer Reading component as well.
While all aspects of the 2025 program have yet to be announced, South Tillamook County Library, 6200 Camp St. in Pacific City, has some activities already on its schedule. For the Kids Reading Program, Mo Phillips Music will be entertaining the youngsters with his program involving singing, dance, and making up new
Proposed TLT increase heading for
recount
In a special election in which ballots were due by May 20, according to unofficial results that won’t be certified until as late as June 16, Tillamook County voters were voting no for a proposed increase in the transient lodging tax for Tillamook County by a narrow margin — just 11 votes. With a current count of 4,496-4,485, it’s a margin that would trigger an automatic recount. The measure would raise TLT taxes from 10 percent to 14 percent between now and mid-2026 (2 percent on Sept. 1, 2025, and another 2 percent on July 1, 2026).
And, in South Tillamook County, voters sent a revamped Board of Directors to the Nestucca Valley School District. Also in unofficial results, Sherry Hartford won the race for Position 1, with 810 votes (to 722 for Irene Barajas and 122 for Troy Trute); Kayla Cole narrowly beat Seth Belsey for Position 2, 824-798 (3 write-ins); Greg Woods collected 1,161 votes in a non-contested race for Position 4 (81 write-ins); and Jason Hagan bested Marty Wisehart, 830-792 (5 write-ins).
Other local board of director decisions included electing board members for the Pacific City Joint Water-Sanitary Authority and the Nestucca Rural Fire Protection District. In the PCJWSA election, which wasn’t contested, voters elected LuAnn Anderson (Position 1), Max Shoemaker (Position 2), and Dan Doyle (Position 4). Similarly, in the uncontested NRFPD race, voters gave the thumbs up to Anne Price (Position 3), Mark Menefee (Position 4), and Steve Shiels (Position 5).
songs on Thursday, June 12 at noon. Also slated for the younger set is Gravity Catastrophe with Alex Zerbe the Zaniac at noon on Thursday, July 31, when he will demonstrate physics with juggling tricks.
Teens will have the chance to enjoy an Origami session on Tuesday, June 24 at 10 a.m., a Teen Board Game afternoon from 3-4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 8, and Teen Nerd Nite on Friday, July 18 from 3-4 p.m.
The library’s regularly scheduled programs will continue as well. This includes Storytime at 3:30 p.m. on Wednesdays, June 11 and 25 and July 9 and 23. Adults can participate in Open Mic Poetry at 5 p.m. on Tuesdays, June 17 and July 15 and Adult Coloring Hour on Wednesdays, June 18 and July 16. Ukulele enthusiasts can Jam with Alan at 4 p.m. on Tuesdays, June 10 and July 8. For updated information on the Summer Reading Program, visit tillabook.org. To contact the South Tillamook County Library, call 503-965-6163.
Business Directory ads available for $12 per issue when you prepay for one year in advance. Also available for $15 per issue for six months, $18 per issue for three months.
For more information, call 503-801-5221 SUN Pacific City
Photo by Tim Hirsch
CAPE KIWANDA AND NESKOWIN BEACH are amongst the 24 sites that will be the focus of the Oregon Beach Monitoring Program.
Photo by Tim Hirsch
Beginning
A Blessed Season
Community, visitors invited to annual Blessing of the Fleet ceremony on June 14
By TIM HIRSCH for the Sun
The community’s focus will zoom in on Pacific City’s historic dory fleet, this year’s angling season in the revered Pacific, and the royalty that will float along the 2025 Dory Days Parade when the Blessing of the Fleet takes center stage on Saturday, June 14 on the beach at Cape Kiwanda.
Dory boats are expected to line the shores starting at 11 a.m. and the ceremony is set to commence at noon at this event put on by the Pacific City Dorymen’s Association.
“Everyone’s welcome,” said PCDA cochair Randy Haltiner about the festivities. “It’s really important we get together and bless our boats, our fisherman, and our fleet for the year to come.”
The tribute to the dory fishing season, which typically runs less than 30 minutes, will feature a musical and prayerful start to the upcoming fishing season. It will also give the public an introduction to 2025 Dory Days princesses — Junior Princess Evie Stuart and Senior Princess Avery Booth Johnson — as well as Grand Marshal Steve Johnson.
Leading off the ceremony will be the musical and inspirational talents of Erin Farstead on violin. She will be followed by introductory comments by PDCA CoChair Ray Monroe before emcee — and fellow Co-Chair Randy Haltiner, shares his thoughts on the tradition of dory fishing. The introduction of this year’s Dory Days royalty will follow as will prayers for the Creator’s guidance on the coming fishing season.
As music is also traditionally a big part of the festivities, attendees will be treated to multi-faceted musician Bret Lucich
singing the National Anthem. Prayerful blessings will then be offered by Lonnie and Crystal Moeller of Hebo Christian Center, Dan Mason, pastor of Pacific Coast Bible Church, and retired Catholic Priest — and member of PCDA — Jim Dierringer.
“It’s my privilege to be involved in the blessing of the fleet this year,” Mason told the Sun. “I have had the opportunity to share many times in this community event. My great desire is to encourage
PUD offers rebates and loan options on qualifying ductless heat pump installations. For more information about the Tillamook PUD heat pump program visit www.tpud.org or call 503-842-2535 to speak with one of our energy experts.
PO Box 433 1115 Pacific Ave Tillamook, OR 97141 www.tpud.org 503-842-2535
THE PACIFIC CITY DORYMEN’S ASSOCIATION’S historic dory fleet will be focus of an afternoon of prayer and music when the Association hosts its annual Blessing of the Fleet event on Saturday, June 14 on the beach at Cape Kiwanda. Boats will arrive around 11 a.m., and the ceremony will commence at noon. The local Boy Scout troop (No. 170) will handle flag-raising duties.
our community and direct our attention to our one and only hope in this world, namely the Lord Jesus Christ. I count it a great responsibility to ask for the Lord’s blessing to be on my community.”
Also, a part of the flower-laden celebration will be a tribute to those who have lived their lives and are no longer with us. The ringing of the bells portion, led by Tim Nelson and his daughter Sophie, will pay homage to those dorymen and women, as well as community members, that have passed on during this last year.
“It’s important to celebrate,” Haltiner added. “Every year we lose important people in our community, and we never get them back.”
For more information about Pacific City Dorymen’s Association, visit pcdorymen. com.
Photos by Tim Hirsch
by
Hop Aboard the Trolley
TCTD has restarted its free Pacific City Shuttle and will run the service every Saturday and Sunday through Labor Day
By TIM HIRSCH of the Sun
Those exploring the wonders of the Pacific City area once again have an alternative way to get around during the weekends this summer.
The Pacific City Shuttle, operated by the Tillamook County Transportation District, returned this past Memorial Day weekend — serving about 130 passenger trips over the three-day weekend — and will continue on weekends throughout the summer to accommodate the high number of visitors who are traveling to the Pacific City-Woods area.
TCTD General Manager Brian Vitulli told the Sun that, considering it didn’t operate last year, he was pleased with the ridership during the first weekend of operation in 2025.
“Overall, I thought it was a pretty good weekend (as far as ridership goes),” he said.
The free shuttle service will operate on Saturdays and Sundays on a seven-mile route that features stops between Bob Straub State Park in the south to as far north as Whalen Island/Clay Myers State Natural Area. The service will operate every hour and will also operate on Independence Day and Labor Day. It will be served by TCTD’s Holly the Trolley, a specially built bus designed to look like a traditional trolley.
Service for the Pacific City Shuttle starts and ends at the Thousand Trails office. Seven trips will be operated each weekend day, with the first trip starting at 10 a.m. Other trips begin at 11 a.m., noon, 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m., and 4:30 p.m.
The Shuttle provides access to some of the most popular destinations around Pacific City, such as the Pelican Pub, Sitka Sedge State Natural Area, Whalen Island, and the Kiawanda Community Center. Residents of the Pacific City-Woods area are welcome on the Pacific City Shuttle as well. TCTD’s buses can accommodate two bicycles on the front-loaded bike rack.
“It gets a lot more ridership than just visitors and tourists,” Vitulli said. “It’s a great community service, and we should be
doing things like this whenever we get the opportunity.”
The free shuttle was originally introduced in 2018 when it served 1,154 passenger trips. In 2021, ridership was 1,724 passenger trips and after adding Holly the Trolley in 2022, the numbers increased to 3,099 passenger trips. In 2023, it’s last year of operation, it served 3,105 trips.
Though it grew in ridership every year — save the pandemic-shortened summer of 2020 — due to the inability to find drivers, it was not put in service in 2024. At that time, the cancellation of the shuttles was part of a temporary reduction of service that also included eliminating Sunday bus routes except the bus to Portland.
Now, though, on the strength of $25,000 worth of funding from Tillamook County, it has returned. Though it is now every hour instead of every 30 minutes and features shorter days, those changes do fit into what a close look at ridership revealed.
“Looking at the analysis, people would intentionally not ride on the regular bus because they wanted to (wait and) ride on the trolley,” Vitulli said. “Ridership was a lot higher on the trolley.”
Vitulli added that, at the current time, TCTD was able to add the shuttle back in, but not yet other Sunday service because providing hourly service for the shuttle only requires one driver and one bus whereas adding Sunday service throughout the county would require an estimated six to eight more drivers.
“We still don’t have enough drivers to add back Sunday service, but for the (Pacific City shuttle) service we’re operating now — one driver and one vehicle a day — it’s not that burdensome for us to do,” Vitulli explained. “It does serve a great purpose for the Pacific City community. It gets people out of their cars (as) they can park in designated locations and just take the shuttle back and forth.”
For more information on the Pacific City Shuttle, call the Tillamook County Transportation District between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. at 503-815-8283 or visit tillamookbus.com.
TILLAMOOK COUNTY TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT’S free Pacific City shuttle, which features a trolley-themed bus, has returned after a one-year absence. It will run hourly from 10 a.m.4:30 p.m. with all routes beginning at Thousand Trails.
Photo
Tim Hirsch
Give wildlife a fighting chance
Encountering a young wild animal on its own may make you think it needs help. But, in most cases, the best thing you can do is leave it where you found it. The advice you are likely to hear from ODFW if you pick up or bring young wildlife home is “put it back.”
Kidnapping young wild animals can take away their best chance at survival. The misconception that a young animal found alone has been abandoned or orphaned often leads well-intentioned individuals to intervene, but this can harm the animal and hinder its chances of survival. It could also lead to a warning or citation from the Oregon State Police.
Removing an animal from the wild is illegal under Oregon wildlife laws. (ORS 497.308 – No person shall remove from its natural habitat or acquire and hold in captivity any live wildlife in violation of the wildlife laws.)
Many wildlife species will leave their young while they forage for food. When people remove them from the wild, young animals miss the chance to learn where to hide, what to eat and how to escape from predators and other dangers. The time young animals spend with their parents and in their natural environment is crucial for the development of survival skills long term.
Unfortunately, every year around this time, ODFW offices, licensed wildlife rehabilitators, and even Oregon State Police are flooded with calls from people who picked up a deer fawn, elk calf, fledgling bird learning to fly, or other young animal they assumed was orphaned because it was alone.
Even if these animals receive care from a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, successfully returning a young animal to the wild is not always possible. Options for long-term placement in wildlife sanctuaries or zoos are limited, and animals often must be euthanized if they lack the survival skills to be released back into the wild. Some animals raised by people can also become dangerous as they grow into adults and pose a serious threat to human safety.
While it may feel like you’re doing the right thing by trying to care for a wild animal yourself, attempting to care for wildlife at home without a license is not only illegal, but it can also be extremely harmful to the animal’s health and survival.
Licensed wildlife rehabilitators undergo specialized training to meet the unique medical, dietary, and environmental needs of wild animals — needs that the average person is typically unprepared to handle. Improper care can lead to malnutrition, illness, injury, or even death. And close contact with people can lead to habituation, making the animal reliant on people and unfit for release. Beyond the risks to the animal, unlicensed care also poses safety and disease transmission risks to people and pets.
Instead, officials point to these recommendations:
• Keep pets and other domestic animals away from wildlife as pets will stress wildlife, especially if there are young wildlife or fledgling birds in your yard. Keeping dogs on a leash when recreating outside and limiting cats to indoors to protect them and our native wildlife are two tactics.
• Give wild animals time, space, and a chance to survive on their own. As part of this, realize that wildlife face survival challenges and sometimes need time to recover before moving on.
• If you are certain an animal is orphaned because you saw the parent animal deceased, the animal has not moved on for a day or two, or you see an animal that is injured, call ODFW (dfw.state.or.us/agency/directory/ local_offices.asp), a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or OSP for advice.
• Don’t feed wildlife. All species of wildlife have a specialized diet that coincides with seasonal changes. Access to food provided by people can negatively impact their health, lead to conflict with people and in many cases has fatal consequences. It can also lead to wild animals losing their fear of people and posing a threat to human safety.
• Share this information with your friends, family and neighbors. Living responsibly with wildlife is possible and it’s up to everyone to do their part to give wildlife a chance.
DEER AND ELK
Oregon’s deer and elk give birth from May through July. It’s natural for mother animals to leave their young alone and hidden for extended periods of time while they go off to feed, so never assume a young animal is orphaned when you see it alone. The mother will return when it’s safe to do so — when people, pets or predators aren’t around. Deer and elk see dogs as a threat to their young and may act aggressively in response to disturbance from a dog.
MARINE MAMMALS
Harbor seal pups are born in late March through April. Females often leave their pups at haul-outs or along sandy beaches while searching for food. Under federal law, it is illegal to harass marine mammals – this includes picking up, moving, or handling a seal pup or any other marine mammal you find at the beach. Beachgoers should stay away from resting seals and sea lions and keep dogs away from these animals as well. Marine mammal strandings should be reported to OSP’s hotline at 1-800-452-7888.
BIRDS
Birds nest in the spring and young birds may be found from late February through early summer. Some baby birds, called fledglings, may become separated from their parents as they learn to fly. These are sometimes thought to be abandoned and brought to wildlife rehabilitators. Unless obviously injured, birds should be left where they are or lifted carefully back onto a branch to help them avoid predators (like outdoor cats), so they have the best chance at survival.
Ducklings and goslings frequently become separated from their mothers due to disturbance from people or predators. If you spot young waterfowl without a mother, please leave them alone and leave the area so the mother can return.
Fewer detections of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in Oregon continue this year, but it is still important to avoid close contact with waterfowl (ducks and geese). Feeding ducks and geese is discouraged.
Calendar Events of
BOARD GAME NIGHT
May 30, 4-7 p.m. PC Pour Wine Bar, 33310 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Use PC Pour’s board games or bring your own. Must be 21 or over. RSVP at PC-Pour.com.
MANZANITA FARMERS MARKET
May 30, 4-7 p.m. 635 Manzanita Ave., Manzanita. Fresh product, artisans, and live music. SNAP program. Visit manzanitafarmersmarket.com.
SUSTAINABLE CLAMMING ON THE BAY
May 31, 9 am.-1 p.m. Netarts Bay View Point, 4940 Bourbon Place W., Tillamook. Learn about types of clams, how to harvest, and more. Registration required - visit netartsbaywebs.org.
YOGA
May 31, 9 a.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. $10 per class. Call 541-450-0655.
FAMILY HEALTH DAY
May 31, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tillamook Jr. High Field, 3906 Alder Ln., Tillamook. Fun-filled day focused on health, wellness, and community resources. Activities for all ages. Contact Galena.Flores@oregonstate.edu.
SHREDDING DAY
May 31, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Tillamook County Library, 1716 3rd St., Tillamook. Takes place in front parking lot across from library. Paper only shredding event. Visit tillabook.org.
CONFLICT MANAGEMENT SKILLS
WORKSHOP
May 31, 1:30-3:20 p.m. Tillamook County Library, 1716 3rd St., Tillamook. Talks with Friends & Family About Politics & Religion. Visit tillamookmediation.org.
25TH ANNIVERSARY KICK-OFF:
MUSIC ON THE STEPS
May 31, 5 p.m. Bay City Arts Center, 5680 A St., Bay City. Outdoor concert - bring seating. Features Mercury Coast, Hope Montgomery & The Invasive Species, and Lili St. Anne. Free event - donations encouraged. Visit baycityartscenter.com.
PICTIONARY
May 31, 5-6:30 p.m. PC Pour Wine Bar, 33310 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Play Pictionary with others. Must be 21 or over. RSVP at PC-Pour.com.
LINE DANCING CLASS
May 31, 7 p.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Classes begin with a lesson then dancing. $10 fee. Contact Kris Rooke, 425-894-4111.
‘A TRIBUTE TO THE KING’ DINNER SHOW
May 31, 7 p.m. Tillamook High School auditorium, 2605 12th St., Tillamook. Tillamook School of Dance Jan Colleknon Hospice Benefit Show. For schedule and tickets, visit tillamookschoolofdance.com.
PACIFIC CITY FARMERS MARKET
June 1, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. South Tillamook County Library parking lot, 6200 Camp St., Pacific City. Fresh produce, artisan vendors, and more.
NESTUCCA HIGH BACCALAUREATE
June 1, 6 p.m. Hebo Fire Station, 30710 Hwy. 101 S., Hebo. Blessing the class of 2025. SOUND BOWL SUNDAY
June 1, 7 p.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Visit kiawanda.com.
STITCHERS
June 2, 4-9 p.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Community of people who make things for others. All levels welcome. $6 admission. Call 503-965-7900.
YOGA
June 2, 4, 6 & 7, 9 a.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. $10 per class. Call 541-450-0655.
PACIFIC CITY WALKING WONDERS
June 2, 4 & 6, 10 a.m. Meet at Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. For more information, visit https://tillamookcountywellness.org/movewell/walking-groups/ or contact coordinator Kathy, 503-801-7448 (text).
STITCHERS
June 3, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Community of people who make things for others. All levels welcome. $6 admission. Call 503-965-7900.
PACIFIC CITY-NESTUCCA VALLEY
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEETING
June 3, noon. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Local concerns and business matters. Email pcnvchamber@gmail.com.
SOUTH COUNTY FOOD PANTRY
June 3, 12:30-6 p.m. Nestucca Valley Presbyterian Church, 35305 Brooten Rd., Pacific City.
TILLAMOOK COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING
June 4, 9 a.m. Tillamook County Courthouse, 201 Laurel Ave., Room 106. Also available via teleconference live video at tctvonline.com or
BLESSING OF THE FLEET
June 14, noon. On the beach at Cape Kiwanda, Pacific City. Prayers over the fleet, laying of flowers in the ocean, and music. Visit pcdorymen.com.
teleconference at #971-254-3149, conference ID: 736-023-979 (listen only). For agenda, visit tillamookcounty.gov.
WEDNESDAY MOVIE NIGHT
June 4, 6 p.m. Tillamook County Library, 1716 3rd St., Tillamook. Movie TBD. Free admission and popcorn. Visit tillabook.org.
OPEN ART NIGHT
June 4, 6-8 p.m. Bay City Arts Center, 5680 A St., Bay City. Bring own supplies and work alongside other artists. Visit baycityartscenter. com.
TAI CHI
June 5, 10:30 a.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. $10 per class/first class free. Call 503-510-0588.
CLAMMING EXPLORIENCE
June 5, 1 p.m. SW 51st St., Pavillion, Lincoln City. Brief orientation followed by clamming on Siletz Bay. Free and no registration required. Call 541-996-1274.
BINGO
June 5, 1-4 p.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Visit kiawanda.com.
NESTUCCA HIGH SCHOOL AWARDS NIGHT
June 5, 6-11 p.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. BOARD GAME NIGHT
June 6, 4-7 p.m. PC Pour Wine Bar, 33310 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Use PC Pour’s board games or bring your own. Must be 21 or over. RSVP at PC-Pour.com.
MANZANITA FARMERS MARKET
June 6, 4-7 p.m. 635 Manzanita Ave., Manzanita. Fresh product, artisans, and live music. SNAP program. Visit manzanitafarmersmarket.com.
ARTIST OF THE MONTH RECEPTION
June 6, 5-7 p.m. Bay City Arts Center, 5680 A St., Bay City. Avis Arthur, Robin Clear, Cheryl St. Pierre, Chris Williams, and Christine Eaton. Open to the public. Visit baycityartscenter. com.
NEHALEM BAY CRAB DERBY
June 7. Kelly’s Brighton Marina, 29200 Hwy. 101 N, Nehalem. Crab races, games, crafts, live music, raffles, and silent auction. Visit kellysbrightonmarina.com.
NESKOWIN FARMERS MARKET
June 7, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 48875 Hwy 101 S., Neskowin. Fresh produce, artisans vendors, and more. Visit neskowinfarmersmarket.com.
SOAP MAKING
WORKSHOP
June 7, 2-3:30 p.m. PC Pour Wine Bar, 33310
Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Make your own shea butter soaps. $20 (paid in advance) includes supplies, instruction, and first beverage. Minors must be accompanied by adult. RSVP at PC-Pour.com.
TRIVIA NIGHT
June 7, 5:370-7 p.m. PC Pour Wine Bar, 33310
Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Free admission. Must be 21 or over. Play trivia. Sign-up at PC-Pour.com.
FREE FISHING DAYS
June 7 & 8. No license required to fish, clam, or crab anywhere in Oregon. All other regula-
OPEN ART NIGHT
June 11, 6-8 p.m. Bay City Arts Center, 5680
A St., Bay City. Bring own supplies and work alongside other artists. Visit baycityartscenter. com.
TAI CHI
June 12, 10:30 a.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. $10 per class/first class free. Call 503-510-0588. KIDS’ SUMMER READING EVENT
June 12, noon. South Tillamook County Library, 6200 Camp St., Pacific City. Mo Phillips Live! Visit tillabook.org.
BINGO
June 12, 1-4 p.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Visit kiawanda.com.
KIDS’ SUMMER READING EVENT
June 12, 2 p.m. Tillamook County Library, 1716 3rd St., Tillamook. Mz. Pearl’s Circus Palooza. Visit tillabook.org.
BIRD WALK
June 13, 9-11 a.m. Hostetler Park and Devils Lake - meet at NE 1st St. parking area, east side of Hwy. 101. Guided bird walk. Free and no registration required. Call 541-994-2131.
BOARD GAME NIGHT
June 13, 4-7 p.m. PC Pour Wine Bar, 33310 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Use PC Pour’s board games or bring your own. Must be 21 or over. RSVP at PC-Pour.com.
MANZANITA FARMERS MARKET
June 13, 4-7 p.m. 635 Manzanita Ave., Manzanita. Fresh product, artisans, and live music. SNAP program. Visit manzanitafarmersmarket.com.
PACIFIC CITY STATE AIRPORT WORK PARTY
tions including limits apply. Visit my odfw. com.
PACIFIC CITY FARMERS MARKET
June 8, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. South Tillamook County Library parking lot, 6200 Camp St., Pacific City.
NESTUCCA VALLEY LIONS CLUB MEETING
June 9, 6 p.m. The Lion’s Den, 34510 Parkway Dr., Cloverdale. Email nestuccavalleylions@ gmail.com.
YOGA
June 9, 11, 13 & 14, 9 a.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. $10 per class. Call 541-450-0655.
PACIFIC CITY WALKING WONDERS
June 9, 11 & 13, 10 a.m. Meet at Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. For more information, visit https://tillamookcountywellness.org/movewell/walking-groups/ or contact coordinator Kathy, 503-801-7448 (text).
STITCHERS
June 10, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Community of people who make things for others. All levels welcome. $6 admission. Call 503-965-7900.
BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC
June 10, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Visit kiawanda.com.
UKULELE JAM WITH ALAN
June 10, 4 p.m. South Tillamook County Library, 6200 Camp St., Pacific City. Call 503965-6163.
PACIFIC CITY JOINT WATER-SANITARY AUTHORITY BOARD MEETING
June 10, 5 p.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Call 503-965-6636.
BINGO
June 10, 5-6:30 p.m. PC Pour Wine Bar, 33310 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Play Bingo with others. Must be 21 or over. RSVP at PCPour.com.
SOUTH TILLAMOOK COUNTY
LIBRARY CLUB BOARD MEETING
June 10, 7 p.m. South Tillamook County Library, 6200 Camp St., Pacific City.
TILLAMOOK COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING
June 11, 9 a.m. Tillamook County Courthouse, 201 Laurel Ave., Room 106. Also available via teleconference live video at tctvonline.com or teleconference at #971-254-3149, conference ID: 736-023-979 (listen only). For agenda, visit tillamookcounty.gov.
SOUTH TILLAMOOK COUNTY
LIBRARY STORYTIME
June 11, 3:30 p.m. South Tillamook County Library, 6200 Camp St., Pacific City. All ages invited. Call 503-965-6163.
NESTUCCA RURAL FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT BOARD MEETING
June 11, 4 p.m. Hebo Fire Station, 30710 Hwy. 101 S., Hebo. Call 503-392-3313.
WEDNESDAY MOVIE NIGHT
June 11, 6 p.m. Tillamook County Library, 1716 3rd St., Tillamook. Movie TBD. Free admission and popcorn. Visit tillabook.org.
June 14, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Pacific City State Airport, 6355 Pacific Ave., Pacific City. Volunteers needed for a variety of upkeep, landscaping, and cleaning tasks. Email friendsofpacificcityairport@gmail.com.
RHOADES POND FIN CLIPPING
June 14, 9 a.m. Rhoades Pond, 39375 Hwy. 22, Hebo. Fall Chinook Broodstock clipping. Family-friendly event. BBQ lunch, auction and raffle. Visit nestuccaanglers.com.
NESKOWIN FARMERS MARKET
June 14, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 48875 Hwy 101 S., Neskowin. Fresh produce, artisans vendors, and more. Visit neskowinfarmersmarket.com.
TIDE POOL EXPLORIENCE
June 14, 9 a.m. NW 15th Street beach access, Lincoln City. Learn about creatures that inhabit rocky tide pools from a local expert. Free and open the public. Call 541-996-1274. HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION DAY
June 14, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Tillamook Transfer Station, 1315 Ekloff Rd., Tillamook. Safe and proper disposal of common household hazardous materials. Visit tillamookcounty.gov.
TILLAMOOK FARMERS MARKET
June 14, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Corner of Laurel Ave. and 2nd St., Tillamook. Locally-grown produce, hand-made and artisan gifts, baked goods, live music, kids’ activities. SNAP match.
BLESSING OF THE FLEET
June 14, noon. On the beach at Cape Kiwanda, Pacific City. Prayers over the fleet, laying of flowers in the ocean, and music. Visit pcdorymen.com.
FLAG DAY EVENT
June 14, 3-5 p.m. Elks RV Park, 9105 Hwy. 101 S., Tillamook. Flag retirement ceremony led by American Legion Post #47 and VFW Post 2848.
MURDER MYSTERY
June 14, 5-7 p.m. PC Pour Wine Bar, 33310 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Solve the unfortunate murder of Lord Michael Jagged. It’s 1967 - so wear your most groovy attire! Space limited. RSVP at PC-Pour.com.
LINE DANCING CLASS
June 14, 7 p.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Classes begin with a lesson then dancing. $10 fee. Contact Kris Rooke, 425-894-4111.
ICONS OF ROCK
June 14, 7 p.m. Lincoln City Cultural Center, 540 NE Hwy. 101, Lincoln City. Back in Back playing tribute to AC/DC and JETT-A-TAR playing tribute to Pat Benatar and Joan Jett. Tickets $27. Visit lincolncity-cultural center. org.
PACIFIC CITY FARMERS MARKET
June 15, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. South Tillamook County Library parking lot, 6200 Camp St., Pacific City.
SOUND BOWL SUNDAY
June 15, 7 p.m. Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Visit kiawanda.com.
To have your event added to the Sun’s calendar, email information to tim@pacificcitysun.com
Photo by Tim Hirsch
PCDA introduces Dory Days royalty
By TIM HIRSCH of the Sun
The Pacific City Dorymen’s Association unveiled its royalty for the 2025 Dory Days celebration at its May 24 membership meeting. The group plans to highlight the royalty in a more public manner on June 14 during the Blessing of the Fleet (see page 6 for more information).
Singled out for the honor will be thirdgeneration fisherman Steve Johnson as grand marshal; Avery Booth Johnson as senior princess; and Evie Stuart as junior princess.
Steve Johnson, who has been on the PCDA board of directors for more than 20 years, is the son of Jerry “J” Johnson, who was grand marshal of Dory Days many years ago. Steve started fishing 55-plus years ago aboard his dad’s commercial salmon troller. According to his family, there are many great memories of father and son fishing together.
PACIFIC CITY DORYMEN’S ASSOCIATION introduced the 2025 Dory Days royalty at its May 24 membership meeting. The royalty includes Grand Marshal Steve Johnson (above),
In the 1970s, during his late high school years, Steve was offered his own dory, the Stanley Steamer, and began fishing on his own. His catches helped to fund his education at Linfield College (now Linfield University).
Around 2010, Steve began running the “JJ” dory, a Learned dory built in 1988 that he got from his father, Jerry. Steve has continued to fish it both for sport fishing and for commercially use since then. Reportedly, the boat is still in great shape and was just repowered with its fourth engine. Steve married Kathleen in 1983, and they had two daughters, Kimberly and Nicole. Everyone in the family even gets into the dory from time to time with a trip on the ocean.
Senior Princess Avery Johnson is the great-granddaughter of Dave Booth, who was a longtime dory fishermen. Dave started his love for dory fishing in 1975 when he bought a Salem boat which he named the Judy B, after his wife Judy Booth, and started commercial fishing it off Pacific City. From day one, Dave’s daughter and Avery’s grandma, Nancy Booth Gardner, was the “puller” on the Judy B until 1979. Many stories have been shared of those two cleaning fish after fish after fish. After Nancy fished through her high school years, she started a family. Dave continued to fish commercially until the mid 1980s when he then sold his commercial dory and started his sport fishing off Pacific City. Nancy, in 1981 gave birth to Gary Allen Johnson, Avery’s dad and also an avid dory fishermen. Gary bought an old “Salem” boat like his grandpa’s first dory that he commercially and sportfished with. As well, Dave still had a lot of commercial gear that he handed down to his grandson Gary and helped him understand the
ocean. Reportedly, Avery Booth Johnson has always been infatuated with the ocean and fishing. She caught her first salmon at the age of 5 with her grandpa Dave and dad Gary. Avery is now 16 years old, and if the family’s suspicious are correct, will continue the tradition of dory fishing the ocean.
The family of Junior Princess Evie Stuart says she is an energetic and talented young student who enjoys a wide range of activities, including basketball, softball, swimming, and creating art. She also loves cheering on her brother, Kael, at his baseball games. A dedicated artist, Evie participated in the Dory Days coloring contest, taking first place in her age group. She is an enthusiastic learner and currently attends Nestucca K-8, where she excels academically.
Evie is the daughter of Lauren Kellow Stuart and Shane Stuart, and the granddaughter of Wes and Elizabeth Kellow. She represents the seventh generation of the Kellow family in the Nestucca Valley — a legacy deeply rooted in local history and tradition.
Her family’s connection to the sea runs deep. Both of Evie’s great-greatgrandfathers, from the Kellow and Schulmerich families, were skilled wooden boat builders who launched their vessels from Cape Kiwanda and fished the Nestucca River. According to family history, her great-great-uncle, Howard Kellow, designed and built the first square-ended dory ever launched from the beach — revolutionizing the traditional double-ended design.
This legacy continues through her grandfather Wes and great-uncle Ron, who helped design, build, and fish the renowned Dark Star, a dory that has appeared in many Dory Days parades.
Join us for a special murder mystery event at PC Pour. Saturday, June 14 we will all work to solve this unfortunate murder. First glass of bubbly an appetizers included in the $30 fee. Space is limited so RSVP
Friday-Sunday 2:00-7:00pm
We PRIVATE PARTIES
Girls’ Nite; Birthday; Bachelorette; Wedding; Corporate Events, etc. We offer great drink, food & catering options PLUS activities like: Bingo; Trivia; Paint & Sip; Soap, Candle & Chocolate Making, etc. Email: Management@pc-pour.com
Senior Princess Avery Booth Johnson (below, at left), and Junior Princess Evie Stuart (below, at right).
