Oregon Beach News, Friday 12/20 – Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and Lincoln City Police Department Respond to Concerning Letters Circulating & Other Local and Statewide News…

The latest news stories across the state of Oregon from the digital home of the Oregon coastal cities, OregonBeachMagazine.com

Friday, December 20, 2024

Oregon Beach Weather

Active Weather Alerts – National Weather Service

...SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY NOW IN EFFECT UNTIL 4 AM PST EARLY THIS MORNING...
...HAZARDOUS SEAS WARNING NOW IN EFFECT UNTIL 1 AM PST SATURDAY...
...GALE WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 1 AM TO 10 AM PST SATURDAY...

* WHAT...For the Small Craft Advisory, steep seas 9 to 11 ft. For the Hazardous Seas Warning, south winds 20 to 30 kt and very steep and hazardous seas 9 to 12 ft expected. For the Gale
Warning, south winds 25 to 35 kt with gusts up to 45 kt and very steep seas 12 to 17 ft.

* WHERE...All areas.

* WHEN...For the Small Craft Advisory, until 4 AM PST early this morning. For the Hazardous Seas Warning, until 1 AM PST Saturday. For the Gale Warning, from 1 AM to 10 AM PST Saturday.

* IMPACTS...Strong winds and very steep seas could capsize or damage vessels. Low visibility conditions are possible.

* View the hazard area in detail at https://go.usa.gov/x6hks

A high surf advisory was issued by the National Weather Service on Friday at 1:52 a.m. valid from Saturday 7 a.m. until Monday 10 p.m. for Clatsop County Coast, Tillamook County Coast and Central Coast of Oregon.

“Large waves and hazardous surf conditions. Breakers up to 25 to 30 feet,” can be anticipated according to the weather service. “The largest breakers during this period are expected on Monday associated with the arrival of an energetic westerly swell.”

“Destructive waves may wash over beaches, jetties, and other structures unexpectedly. People can be swept off rocks and jetties and drown while observing high surf. Minor beach erosion may damage coastal properties and buildings. Higher than normal water run-up is expected on beaches and low-lying shoreline. Enhanced possibility for sneaker waves,” explains the weather service. “A High Surf Advisory means that high surf will affect beaches, producing rip currents, sneaker waves and beach erosion. Stay well back from the water’s edge and be alert for exceptionally high waves. Keep away from large logs on the beach. Water running up on the beach can easily lift or roll logs which can injure or kill someone caught in their path.”

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.

Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and Lincoln City Police Department Respond to Concerning Letters Circulating

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office recently learned about a letter being circulated throughout Lincoln County which encourages community members to track and report information regarding people of color, specifically community members that are believed to be undocumented. We want to be unequivocal in our stance: this type of behavior is harmful, divisive, and inconsistent with the values we uphold as public servants and community members. Targeting individuals in this manner erodes trust and undermines the sense of safety and inclusion that we strive to maintain in Lincoln County.

A photo of the full letter sent to the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office can be found below:

One of the things we tell each person when they join our team is to “do the right thing”. We are encouraging our community members to do the right thing and use compassion as we encounter these types of messages. We strongly advise against engaging in activities such as those outlined in this letter, including collecting or sharing information about individuals based on their demographic or perceived immigration status.  

In addition to valuing diversity and equity, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is committed to upholding Oregon law with regard to immigration enforcement. Oregon law generally prohibits the inquiry or collection of an individual’s immigration or citizenship status, or country of birth, with few specific exceptions as outlined in Oregon Revised Statute 181A.823. Consistent with this, the Sheriff’s Office does not inquire about, document, or share such information with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). These provisions are embedded in our policy manual and are essential to ensuring that our practices respect the rights and dignity of all individuals. 

The mission of the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is to enhance public safety, reduce the fear and impact of crime, and improve the quality of life for all. We are committed to continuous learning and growth to better serve every member of our community. Diversity strengthens our communities, and we take pride in growing and thriving alongside the people we serve.

Lincoln City Police Department

 · Recently, disturbing letters titled “The brown round-up” were sent to public officials in Lincoln County. These letters include statements that instill fear in members of our Community. The mission of the Lincoln City Police Department is to maintain human rights, protect persons and property, and address Citizen concerns while providing the highest quality professional service to all.

We remain focused on enforcing the laws we swore to uphold. Oregon Revised Statue 181A.821 prohibits law enforcement from inquiring about a person’s immigration or citizenship status. We conduct investigations into crimes based on law, regardless of a person’s citizenship status.

Oregon Revised Statutes 166.155 and 166.165 also charge us with investigating Bias crimes against our Community members, including criminal conduct based on perceptions of the other person’s race, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability or national origin. To report a crime you can contact us in person at the Police Department or call our non-emergency number at (541) 994-3636.

Child Luring Investigations Result in Arrests

In the past two weeks, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office has conducted investigations related to online child luring using decoy social media accounts. During these efforts, deputies and detectives posed as underage children on various social media platforms and were approached by adult males who offered to meet for sexual encounters.

On December 12th, 40-year-old Jose Luis Sanchez-Morales from Springfield, Oregon, was arrested and charged with two counts of Luring a Minor and Online Sexual Corruption of a Child in both the first and second degrees.

On December 19th, 40-year-old Joseph Thomas Cunningham from Depoe Bay, Oregon, was also arrested and charged with two counts of Luring a Minor and Online Sexual Corruption of a Child in the first and second degrees.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office urges parents to closely monitor their children’s social media activity. It is crucial for parents to discuss the potential dangers associated with communicating with strangers online. These investigations aim to reduce criminal activity and enhance the safety of our community. We would like to thank the Oregon State Police for their assistance in these cases.

** Warrant Arrest **

On 12/18/2024, around 12:50-pm, the Coos County Sheriff’s Office assisted the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) Pacific Northwest Violent Offender Task Force with a fugitive investigation.

The USMS, along with a Sheriff’s Office USMS-TFO Deputy and an Officer with North Bend Police Department apprehended Leon A. Luck (38) at a in the Sea Port RV Park in Charleston. Leon was taken into custody for a Oregon State Parole Warrant and booked into CCSO jail. “Police action is not indicative of guilt. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law”

Drug Lab Investigation in Bandon

Through the South Coast Interagency Narcotics Team’s (SCINT) investigation into an illegal marijuana organization starting in November 2024, SCINT identified Matthew Houglum (50) as a suspect. SCINT identified Matthew’s address to be 50280 Highway 101, Bandon, located within Coos County Oregon.

On December 9th, 2024, SCINT Detective B. Davis applied for and was granted a search warrant for Matthew’s residence. On December 11th, 2024, a multi-jurisdictional operation including: SCINT, Oregon State Police, Coos County ERT, Bandon Police, Coquille Police, North Bend Police, Coquille Tribal Police, Coos County Parole and Probation, and the U.S Coast Guard drone unit executed the search warrant.

Matthew and other co-conspirators were found to have an illegal psilocybin mushroom lab, marijuana processing center, and an arsenal of firearms.Detectives seized over two thousand mushrooms containing suspected amounts of psilocybin, forty-nine firearms including short barreled rifles and shotguns many of which are suspected to be obtained illegally, various grenades, and marijuana processing equipment.

The FBI and ATF are being briefed on this illegal psilocybin lab. Under the Controlled Substance act, psilocybin is a schedule 1 substance, which also includes heroin, meth and LSD. Charges for this case are pending, as it is an ongoing investigation.”Police action is not indicative of guilt. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law”

Search For Missing Coos County Man

On December 16, 2024, the Coos County Sheriff’s Office received a request for assistance from North Bend Police Department regarding a missing person from their jurisdiction, Joseph Neill. Mr. Neill was reported to have left his home to go photograph the King Tides at the beach and never returned home.

In the early morning hours of December 16, Mr. Neill’s vehicle was located on Transpacific Parkway near a landmark known as Jordan Point. North Bend Police requested a K9 team in order to track the area for Mr. Neill’s whereabouts as some of his property had been located in that area. A Sergeant from the Coos County Sheriff’s Office, a Coos County Search and Rescue trailing K9 Team, Flanker and a Deputy responded to check the area. The K9 checked the area and determined that Mr. Neill is no longer in that area.

Coast Guard assets were deployed at the request of North Bend Police Department as was a boat from North Bend Fire Department to check the Coos Bay and surrounding areas. As there was evidence to suggest that Mr. Neill was elsewhere, the search was suspended pending further information or clues. The property the search was conducted on is private property and there are hazards to life and limb in that area. Members of the public should not be on that property without landowner permission. If anyone has any further information, please contact the North Bend Police Department at 541-756-3161.

Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Congratulations

Congratulations are in order for Deputy Grace Paranto on her successful completion of Corrections Academy. She also assisted with color guard duties. Deputy Paranto enjoys reading and agate hunting when she is away from the office. Way to go Deputy Paranto and welcome home!

Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) Instructor of the Year – Deputy Eric Churchill 

Deputy Blake was honored by the Oregon State Marine Board at the annual Post-Season conference held in Bend, 2024. Dion received the “Service Excellence Award” in recognition for his work while a member of the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Marine Patrol Team throughout the 2024 boating season.

Deputy Blake was recognized for his tireless dedication with multiple programs including the “Clean Marina” OSMB project in which he piloted an initiative of registration compliance, identifying derelict vessels to be removed from the local marinas. The pilot program initiated in Lincoln County is now being disseminated to counties across the state with positive impact.

OSMB Law Enforcement Training Coordinator, Eddie Persichetti, highlighted Dion’s infectious positive attitude, commending him for initiating and then fostering a positive atmosphere throughout the training process.

“He consistently goes above and beyond to engage students and peers, making a tremendous impact on their learning through varying training methods that are thorough, professional, and exciting,” according to Eddie Persichetti, Marine Law Enforcement Training Coordinator.  — Just another example of the continued dedication of Dion and our LCSO Marine Patrol Team!

Cape Lookout to move construction closure to summer and reopen spring reservations

TILLAMOOK, Oregon— Cape Lookout State Park will move its construction closure to summer 2025, which means spring campground reservations will reopen. 

The park was slated to close temporarily for construction starting in spring 2025, but the schedule has changed. 

All reservable campsites sites in A, B, C and D loops as well as deluxe cabins and yurts will be reservable online for stays in March 1 through May 31 starting 9 a.m. Dec. 20, 2024. 

Cape Lookout is one of the nine GO Bond projects at Oregon State Parks supported through Oregon-issued general obligation bonds approved by the Oregon State Legislature in 2021.

Originally, the project included moving camp loops A & B to higher ground and away from encroaching seawater, but unexpected geological and safety concerns prevented the move. Now the work will focus on extending the life of the existing infrastructure and slated to include: 

• Reinforcing the existing dune to prevent seawater from entering the camp loops
• Upgrading electrical and water systems in C and D loops
• Day use improvements
• Replacing campground restroom/shower building

The work is scheduled to begin in summer or fall of 2025 and extend into spring or summer 2026. The campground and day-use area will be closed during construction. 

We encourage visitors to monitor Oregon State Park website for up-to-date information about the Cape Lookout State Park GO Bond project and campground closures. For more detailed information about the project visit the park construction web page.

10 Staff Placed On Leave In Connection With St. Helens School District Sex Abuse Scandal

A total of 10 employees of the St. Helens School District have now been placed on paid administrative leave stemming from a teacher sex abuse scandal that began with the arrest of two teachers a month ago. More cases have come to light since then, but it appears that at least four of the 10 cases were not previously known.

The district said each case is “in connection with ongoing investigations related to allegations of sexual misconduct or for failing to report sexual misconduct.”

Each case is either “in connection with ongoing investigations related to allegations of sexual misconduct or for failing to report sexual misconduct,” according to a Friday news release from the district. The news release did not identify any of the 10 staff on leave, and the district declined to name any of them when asked.

“We’re going to need to affirm what information is legally releasable and we will do that and get back to you with that information,” said J. Marie, a newly hired crisis communications expert.

During a Friday media briefing, the district introduced Marie, with J. Marie and Associates, and said she will help guide the district’s public response following the sex abuse scandal that has rocked the small Oregon town. Marie said her contract is open-ended with a rate of $180 an hour and said, “I work as efficiently as I possibly can.”

“For the last 20 or so years, I have had a small business supporting school districts in crisis communications and have worked closely with the Washington Association of School Administrators to support districts in a variety of critical issues,” Marie said.

Current St. Helens High School teacher Eric Stearns and retired teacher Mark Collins were both arrested on Nov. 12 after a two-month investigation into what police described as allegations of “historic sexual abuse” at the school. The arrests triggered a wave of outrage from students and parents, many of whom accused district officials of covering up the allegations.

“That trust is not going to be, you know, rebuilt based on words,” Marie said. “It’s going to be rebuilt based on actions.”

St. Helens High School Principal Katy Wagner and district Superintendent Scot Stockwell were both placed on leave a few days after the arrests, and Wagner was indicted on Nov. 26 on criminal charges of mistreatment and official misconduct for allegedly withholding care from students and failing to comply with mandatory child abuse reporting requirements.

Days before Wagner’s indictment, the Oregon Department of Human Services confirmed that it had opened investigations into six staff members at St. Helens High School: Stearns, Collins, Stockwell, Wagner and two others whom KGW has not named because to date they have not been charged with crimes (Stockwell has not been charged either, but was publicly identified by the district when he was placed on leave).

Around the same time, St. Helens police announced an investigation into a St. Helens Middle School teacher for alleged criminal conduct “involving a student,” and that unnamed teacher was also placed on leave.

“It’s critical, ultimately, for the community to have confidence in what is learned. the investigations need to be impartial. they need to be thorough, and they need to be allowed to run their course without interference or undue speculation.” Marie said.

At least some of those seven previously reported cases appear to be among the 10 paid leave cases confirmed by the district Friday, although it’s unclear if they all are, especially since Collins is retired.

The district news release states that two of the staff members were placed on leave at some point before Nov. 13, three were placed on leave on Nov. 13 due to arrests, two were placed on leave at some point after Nov. 13 due to DHS reports or tip line reports, and three were placed on leave at some point after Nov. 13 due to an internal report.

The district announced last week that it was launching an internal investigation into the sex abuse scandal, but it’s unclear if the “internal report” referenced in Friday’s news release is connected to that investigation, which was expected to take 45 to 60 days to produce a final report.

In the past few weeks, the district has appointed an interim principal to step in for Wagner and an interim superintendent to step in for Stockwell. The district school board director also resigned after the scandal broke, and the district said Friday that has posted an application for the position, with an appointee to be named Jan. 8. (SOURCE)

Financially Troubled Bay Area Hospital in Coos Bay Begins Talk With Private Equity Firm To Operate Facility

Mired in deep financial woes, executives at Bay Area Hospital in Coos Bay are courting a private equity-owned health company to “assume operations” of the facility.

The 172-bed public, nonprofit hospital — the largest on Oregon’s coast — said this week it has signed a non-binding letter of intent to negotiate a deal with Quorum Health, which owns McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center in Springfield.

Kimberly Winker, a spokesperson for Bay Area Hospital, said the Coos Bay facility “is working toward an agreement where Quorum would enter into a lease transaction and assume operations of the hospital.” Hospital officials declined to say more about the financial terms of the deal, saying the arrangement has yet to be finalized.

Winker said Bay Area Hospital would keep its name. She said Quorum has so far agreed to maintain essential services for at least 10 years and keep employees in good standing with their existing pay, titles and seniority. Quorum would also ensure local representation on the hospital’s governing board and uphold existing charity care policies, Winker added.

“Quorum has also agreed to capital commitments and is expected to contribute sales and property taxes, which stand to benefit the community,” Winker said. “They are experienced in supporting rural health care … and can provide support in a timeline consistent with our financial needs.”

The two parties hope to complete the deal by the middle of 2025, pending further negotiations and approval from the state’s regulatory body that reviews business deals in health care.

The talks come as local hospitals across the country are struggling with rising costs, staff shortages and lower payments from insurance companies. The combination has made it harder for hospitals to stay financially viable on their own and helped drive a new wave of health care industry consolidation.

Bay Area Hospital is an independent hospital district that is officially a local government entity. While it can levy property taxes with voters’ approval, the hospital hasn’t done so since 1989. According to its website, “Bay Area Hospital District is the only health district in Oregon that currently does not receive any county property tax funds.”

With more than 1,000 staffers, Bay Area Hospital is also the largest employer in Oregon’s south coast, with most of its employees represented by unions.

Bay Area Hospital leaders said the deal is aimed to stabilize the hospital’s finance and maintain health services in Coos Bay. The coastal hospital has been cash-strapped for years and was in such bad financial shape last year that independent auditors raised “substantial doubt about the Hospital’s ability to continue as a going concern for a reasonable period of time.”

The hospital’s chief financial officer told The Lund Report last year that the hospital technically defaulted on a $47 million bank loan and would have to close down if the bank called in the loan because it didn’t have the cash to pay off the debt.

While Bay Area Hospital has made some strides in improving its financial situation over the last two years — reducing losses by $54 million during the period and increasing revenues by more than 27.6% to break even following COVID-19 setbacks — industry challenges remain too large for local efforts alone, hospital officials said.

The hospital said it used to have a “healthy commercial insurance payer mix” but now nearly 87% of its patients are on Medicaid or Medicare, whose payments often don’t cover expenses. Hospital leaders said that while costs to provide care and pay employees’ wages have climbed over the last 15 years, reimbursements have not kept up.

“We’ve worked hard to turn things around and position Bay Area Hospital for a strong future, and we believe partnering with Quorum Health is the right next step,” Brian Moore, president and CEO of Bay Area Hospital, said in a statement.

Bay Area Hospital leaders said its arrangement with Quorum Health could provide resources that the hospital can’t access on its own. They said the partnership would help the hospital grow its services, keep doctors and nurses on staff and invest in updated technology and facilities.

Quorum Health Corporation, a hospital system owned by private equity firms, has 12 hospitals across nine states. It started as a publicly traded company overseeing 38 hospitals in 2016. By 2020, after closing three and selling 11 of them, it had slimmed down to 22 hospitals across 13 states before entering Chapter 11 bankruptcy. At the time of that filing, the private equity firm KKR was the largest holder of the company’s debt and owned approximately 9% of its public shares.

Following the bankruptcy, private equity firms Davidson Kempner Capital Management and Goldentree Asset Management gained control of the company. Goldentree now owns the majority stake in Quorum Health.

Since emerging from bankruptcy, Quorum Health has continued to face financial challenges and has closed or sold off hospitals in recent years. Last year, it closed a rural hospital in eastern North Carolina that left a county with a population of 22,000 without a hospital. Patients have to drive more than 20 miles to reach the nearest hospital.

As of August 2024, Quorum Health operated only 10 hospitals — down from 22 at the time of its 2020 bankruptcy filing. But the health system recently acquired two Steward Health Care hospitals in Texas through a bankruptcy court-approved sale. (SOURCE)

Oregon Coast National Wildlife Refuges —  Planting for (coastal) Prairies

USFWS staff planted 200 beach strawberry, 200 coastal goldenrod, and 1000 kinnikinnick plugs to bolster native plant diversity and support native pollinators.

Kinnikinnick is the host plant for the imperiled Seaside Hoary Elfin Butterfly. Some factors that contribute to the butterfly’s decline are invasive vegetation displacing resources and habitat loss. Planting these native plants is just one way USFWS is trying to restore this coastal prairie.Photos by // USFWS

Winter Whale Watch Week Returns to the Oregon Coast December 27-31

— Oregon State Parks will host Winter Whale Watch Week on the Oregon Coast Friday, Dec. 27 through Tuesday, Dec. 31.

Trained Oregon State Park volunteers will be stationed at 15 sites along the Oregon Coast from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to help visitors spot gray whales on their southward migration to the calving lagoons in Mexico. 

The sites are some of the best places to watch for whales on the Oregon Coast. A map of volunteer-staffed sites is available online at the official event webpage: https://oregonstateparks.org/index.cfm?do=thingstodo.dsp_whaleWatching

“Now is a perfect time to see the whales as their population rebounds on the Oregon Coast,” said Park Ranger Peter McBride.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced an end to an Unusual Mortality Event impacting gray whales. Since then, the estimated population has increased by roughly 30% from 14,530 last year to 19,260 this year, according to NOAA. The numbers are on the rise overall, but the calf count is still low as the population continues to rebound.

“While there are more gray whales to see now on the Oregon Coast, the calves remain a rare and important sight,” said Michael Milstein, public affairs officer with NOAA Fisheries.

Winter Whale Watch Week provides an opportunity to see not only the gray whales but other coastal wildlife including birds and other marine mammals with help from trained volunteers and rangers. 

The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay will be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 27-31. Visitors to the center can enjoy interactive whale exhibits and take in the panoramic ocean views. Binoculars are provided. Rangers from Oregon State Parks will also be on hand to answer questions about the whales.

All Whale Watch Week visitors are encouraged to dress for the weather, to bring binoculars and to follow beach safety guidelines such as remaining out of fenced areas, knowing the tide schedule and always keeping an eye on the surf. Go to https://visittheoregoncoast.com/beach-safety/ for a list of safety tips.

For more information about coast parks and campgrounds, visit oregonstateparks.org.

Visitors are encouraged to share their photos and videos from Winter Whale Watch Week on social media using #OregonStateParks and #ORWhaleWatch24.

Yaquina Bay Lighthouse slated for exterior restoration in 2025

NEWPORT, Oregon— The Yaquina Bay Lighthouse will get a full exterior restoration in 2025. 

The lighthouse, built in 1871, is the only wooden lighthouse still intact on the Oregon Coast, and it’s the last example in the state of the combined lighthouse and living quarters. 

The Yaquina Bay Lighthouse served mariners for only a few short years before it was decommissioned in favor of the Yaquina Head Lighthouse in 1874. 

The lighthouse will close temporarily for restoration from Jan. 1 to June 2025, but the park will remain open. The $1.6 million project includes a complete rehabilitation of the exterior:

• Repair roof framing and chimneys
• Repair brick foundation
• Repair lantern
• Repair siding, doors and windows
• Install new roof
• Complete exterior paint

“This restoration work will help protect and preserve the historic structure for future visitors to enjoy,” said Brian McBeth, historic architecture project manager. 

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department’s mission includes protecting and sharing historic structures like the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse for the enjoyment and education of current and future generations. 

Each biennium, the department spends a portion of its project funds on historic restoration and maintenance. Upcoming projects include the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse, Cape Foulweather Gift Shop at Otter Crest and Hughes House at Cape Blanco State Park. The Cape Foulweather Gift Shop will be closed Feb. through June 2025 with limited to no parking due to construction. 

For more information about the lighthouse and any updates to closures, visit the park page.

Recreational Crabbing Now Open Coastwide – Oregon’s Commercial Dungeness crab season begins December 16th

Oregon’s commercial Dungeness crab fishery opens Dec. 16 from Cape Falcon (Oswald State Park) to the California border. according to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW).

“Pre-season testing in this area shows crab meat fill meets criteria and domoic acid is below the safety threshold,” a release from ODFW states.

Oregon will open the north coast in coordination with southern Washington to ensure consumers get a quality product and crab is not wasted. Dec. 31 is the earliest this area could open.

The commercial fleet can begin the presoak period – setting baited crab pots in the water – on Dec. 13 from Cape Falcon to the California border. The presoak time gives permit holders a chance to get their gear out in an equitable, organized, and safe manner and all can begin harvesting crab Dec. 16 in this area.

—– Recreational crabbing is now open coastwide in all bays and the ocean, the Oregon Department of Agriculture and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife announced today.

Two consecutive tests of crab samples indicate levels of domoic acid (a marine biotoxin) are below the safety threshold from Cape Blanco to CA. (This area has been closed to high levels of domoic acid since Nov. 14.)

People should always call the Shellfish Safety Hotline at 1-800-448-2474 before heading out to harvest any shellfish or visit the ODA Recreational Shellfish Biotoxin Closures Webpage.

Current recreational harvest closures and openings:

• Crabs:
  • OPEN coastwide. 
• Razor clams:
  • OPEN from the WA border to Cascade Head.
  • CLOSED from Cascade Head to the CA border.
• Mussels:
  • OPEN coastwide.
• Bay clams:
  • OPEN coastwide.

In areas open to crab harvesting, it is always recommended that crab be eviscerated and the guts removed prior to cooking. This includes removal and discard of viscera, internal organs, and gills. Toxins cannot be removed by cooking, freezing or any other treatment.

ODA will continue testing for shellfish toxins at least twice per month, as tides and weather permit. Reopening an area closed for biotoxins requires two consecutive tests with results below the closure limit. 

For more information call ODA’s shellfish biotoxin hotline at (800) 448-2474, the ODA Food Safety Program at 503- 986-4720, or visit the ODA Recreational Shellfish Biotoxin Closures Webpage .

Commercial crabbing in bays will open back up Dec. 16 from Cape Falcon to the California border in conjunction with the commercial ocean fishery. The commercial bay crab season closes at 11:59 p.m. Dec. 31.

Contact ODFW for recreational license requirements, permits, rules, and limits.

Oregon Coast Humane Society is Offering Special Holiday Deliveries

In an effort to spread holiday cheer and to promote adoptions, the Oregon Coast Humane Society has announced it will be making special holiday deliveries on Christmas Eve and Christmas morning to families within 20 miles of Florence, the organization said.

OCHS officials said that, for those who prefer, appointments are also available on both days to visit the shelter and choose an adopted pet in person.

The holiday deliveries provide a two-fold opportunity for not only creating a lasting cherished memory but also a chance for new pet owners to receive guidance by adoption counselors on such topics as introductions to other animals in the home, feeding routines, and an animal’s specific behavioral information, OCHS staff said.

“When you adopt an animal from OCHS, we make sure to discuss the ongoing needs and expenses involved in caring for your new companion throughout their lifetime,” said Elizabeth Thompson executive director of OCHS. “We want all adopters to consider their future and think about how their new pet will fit into their lives in the years to come.”

OCHS staff said that prospective adopters are encouraged to visit the OCHS shelter to meet animals they’re interested in and to complete an adoption application. Pending an approved application, arrangements will be made for a holiday delivery or for a visit to pick the perfect pet, the organization’s staff said. OCHS officials said that the shelter is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

More information: https://oregoncoasthumanesociety.org/  —– Or call: 541-997-4277.

Tips To Purchase a Permit to Cut Your Christmas Tree From an Oregon National Forest

The holiday season is upon us, which means the hunt for the perfect Christmas tree is on. For those looking to bring home a real tree, permits are available now for all Oregon national forests.

Christmas tree permits are available for purchase online at recreation.gov (with an added $2.50 processing fee charged by the website) and at local U.S. Forest Service offices or from local vendors.

Permits are $5 each, and each permit allows the cutting of one Christmas tree. Households can purchase a maximum of five permits.

For downloadable maps of tree-cutting areas and a list of local vendors selling tree permits, go to bit.ly/WNFtree .

Fourth-grade students can receive a free tree permit by getting their Every Kid Outdoors pass and entering the voucher or pass number when prompted on Recreation.gov or by visiting a Forest Service office.

Seaside Art Walk for December

Seaside’s art walk takes place from 5 to 7 p.m. on the first Saturday of each month in the historic Gilbert District, with free, dedicated parking at Holladay Drive and Oceanway Street. Meet local artists and discover their latest collections.

Enjoy A Festive Holiday Experience Aboard the Candy Cane Express!

Nov 29-Dec 23 — Take in the views of the beautiful Oregon coastline aboard the historic train at Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad! Beautifully decorated both inside and out, this steam-powered train ride is complete with complementary hot cocoa and cookies. Write letters to Santa while awaiting a visit from the man in the red suit himself! This round-trip excursion departs Garibaldi and runs to Rockaway Beach for a one hour round trip ride. https://oregoncoastscenic.org/train-rides/candy-cane-express/

Annual Holiday Lights at Shore Acres

The event will include a speech by Mayor Sean Fitzpatrick, costumed carolers from the upcoming show “Decked!” which opens Dec. 6 at the Ten Fifteen Theater and a guest musical appearance by Blind Pilot.

Holiday Lights are set to sparkle again on Oregon’s Adventure Coast this season at Shore Acres State Park. Perched on the rugged cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Shore Acres State Park is famous for its beautiful 7-acre botanical gardens and Japanese lily pond. Visitors get a chance to stroll through this holiday tradition every night from 4:30pm to 9:00pm, Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve – including Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. It has become a real holiday tradition for the whole family. Admission is always free! However, parking at Shore Acres any time of the year is $5. — BOOK PARKING PASS NOW

Celebrate the Season at Sea of Lights

Celebrate the season at Sea of Lights: one of the coast’s most unique holiday light displays! Sea of Lights takes place at the Oregon Coast Aquarium from 5-8 p.m. on the first three Friday and Saturday evenings this December, with each weekend featuring a different attraction.

See lights, drink hot chocolate, meet Santa, and be merry! Chart a course for an unforgettable, family-friendly holiday experience. Find a full schedule of events, updates, and tickets online at aquarium.org/sea-of-lights

Sandbagging Stations in Lincoln County

Lincoln County residents have access to three self-serve, public sandbagging stations located in Yachats, Newport, and Lincoln City.

If you plan on using the self-serve sandbagging station, remember to bring a shovel. Hours:  Mid-October through mid-April. You can access sand any time of day or night. Community members may gather up to 10 sandbags per household, per season.  Full news releases, flyers, and social posts in English and Spanish are attached.

Oregon Coast National Wildlife Refuge Looking For Suspect in Sandstone Cliff Vandalism

Officials with the Oregon Coast National Wildlife Refuge are asking for the community’s help identifying the person or persons responsible for vandalizing a rock face recently.

According to the refuge, the names ‘Luke’ and ‘Niko’ were carved deep into a sandstone headland, which is located on public land. The refuge says the rock that was vandalized is on a section of beach between the cities of Gold Beach and Brookings.

Vandalism on public lands is illegal, and penalties include fines and jail time. Anyone with information or
knows who is responsible, is asked to contact the Oregon Coast National Wildlife Refuge by emailing  oregoncoast@fws.gov.

The Oregon Coast Aquarium New Tufted Puffin Oregon License Plates on Sale

One of Oregon’s most adorably iconic seabirds is coming to the front and back of a car near you. The Oregon Coast Aquarium has opened voucher sales for its new tufted puffin license plates.

The design, featuring a tufted puffin floating in the ocean and gazing down at some fish below, was created by the
aquarium’s graphic design and marketing coordinator, Cam Mullins.

Starring a tufted puffin—one of Oregon’s iconic seabirds–funds from the new license plate will benefit both the Aquarium’s animals and their wild counterparts. You can purchase a voucher now and exchange it at the DMV once the physical plates are available. We need to sell 3,000 vouchers to reach the production stage—meaning the sooner 3,000 vouchers are sold, the sooner production begins, and the sooner you’ll have your puffin plates in-hand. Read the full story at aquarium.org/puffin-plate-debut: photo by OCAq’s Jeremy Burke

Tufted puffins are native to Oregon and nest on the rocky coast. The aquarium has a Seabird Aviary that sustains a flock of these sea birds and the profits from the license plates will go to benefit these puffins and their wild counterparts.

The voucher is available for purchase on the aquarium’s website. The cost covers the $40 surcharge fee and the money left over after the deduction of the DMV’s fees will go to support the Oregon Coast Aquarium’s
rehabilitation and conservation efforts. The aquarium is building a new marine wildlife rehabilitation center with
hopes of doubling the number of animal patients it can offer care to. FOLLOW on FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/OregonCoastAquarium

Emergency Volunteer Corps of Nehalem Bay

Emergency Volunteer Corps of Nehalem Bay

Do you need a GoBag or GoBag supplies? Purchase supplies on the website and pick up items at the Pop-Up Shop. Pick up January 11, from 1:00-1:30 PM at the Manzanita Police Station — https://evcnb.org/events-and-training/gobag-popup-01112025

Holiday Shipping Guide: Your Last-Minute Dates for USPS, FedEx, UPS and Amazon Shipping

Doing some last-minute shopping? Don’t wait. As of today, you still have time to ship your gifts so they’ll arrive before Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. You’re going to need to act quickly, though. The first deadlines that will guarantee on-time delivery are coming up this week, and you need to be prepared. 

FedEx shipping deadlines to arrive by Dec. 25, 2024

With Christmas falling on a Wednesday this year, you’ll be able to take take advantage of overnight shipping from FedEx on Monday, Dec. 23. In a pinch, you can also ship FedEx SameDay on Tuesday, Dec. 24, to get your package delivered by Christmas. FedEx Express Saver, 2Day and 3Day deadlines are all the week before Christmas, and the FedEx Ground deadline is two weeks before, on Dec. 17.

Here are the dates FedEx recommends you ship by (PDF) to have your packages arrive on or before Dec. 25 in the US.

FedEx holiday shipping deadlines

Domestic service	Ship date
Ground	Dec. 17
Express Saver	Dec. 19
2Day and 2Day AM*	Dec. 20
First Overnight and Priority Overnight*	Dec. 23
SameDay	Dec. 24

*You can send FedEx 2Day and FedEx 2Day AM one day later on Saturday, Dec. 21, with an optional Saturday Delivery surcharge for $16 per package. 

UPS shipping deadlines to arrive by Dec. 25, 2024

As with FedEx, UPS shipping deadlines are a little more reasonable this week, with the holiday landing on a Wednesday instead of a Monday, as it did in 2023. You’ll need to send your very last packages by Dec. 23 to make sure they arrive by Dec. 25. Here are UPS’ recommended shipping dates (PDF) for Christmas 2023.

UPS holiday shipping deadlines

Domestic service	Ship date
Ground	Check the UPS website for deadlines
3-Day Select	Dec. 19
2nd Day Air	Dec. 20
Next Day Air	Dec. 23

USPS shipping deadlines for Dec. 25, 2024

The US Postal Service deadlines for shipping Christmas packages also a bit more favorable for last-minute shopping this year. Here are the dates the US Postal Service recommends you circle on your calendar if you want packages to arrive before Dec. 25, including for Alaska and Hawaii.

USPS holiday shipping deadlines

Domestic service	Date (excluding Alaska and Hawaii)	Date for Alaska	Date for Hawaii
USPS Retail Ground	Dec. 18	Dec. 16	Dec. 16
First-Class Mail	Dec. 18	Dec. 18	Dec. 18
Priority Mail	Dec. 19	Dec. 19	Dec. 19
Priority Mail Express	Dec. 21	Dec. 20	Dec. 20

Amazon estimated shipping deadlines for Dec. 25, 2024

You may be able to streamline the shopping and mailing process by ordering straight from Amazon and shipping the package directly to your giftee. But heads up: Amazon has a habit of waiting until much closer to Christmas before it lists its holiday shipping deadlines. We can extrapolate the deadline this year from shipping dates for preceding holiday seasons. 

Note that these are estimated delivery dates. If it were us, and Christmas was close, we might not risk everything on those one-day and same-day delivery dates and instead send an electronic gift certificate. All shipping dates except for e-gift cards and free shipping in five to eight days are exclusively for Prime members. 

One thing to look for: Amazon said Same-Day Delivery is available in more than 90 metro areas, so check whether your area has Same-Day Delivery. You can also look for “free delivery today” next to the product name. And each Amazon product listing page will also provide an estimated shipping date.

Amazon holiday shipping deadlines

Shipping type	Deadline to buy	Date delivered
Free shipping	Dec. 14	Dec. 24
2-day shipping (Prime)	Dec. 22	Dec. 24
1-day shipping (Prime)	Dec. 23	Dec. 24
Same day delivery (Prime)	Dec. 24	Dec. 24
e-Gift card delivery	Dec. 25	Dec. 25

How to ship packages to arrive in time for Hanukkah and Kwanzaa this year

Shipping companies don’t generally list specific deadlines for Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. However, since both holidays mostly align with Christmas this year, you can use the same deadlines.

Hanukkah starts on the evening of Dec. 25 this year, and Kwanzaa begins the next day on Dec. 26. If you want any Hanukkah or Kwanzaa packages to arrive before the holiday begins, use the shipping deadlines for Christmas.

Nothing is guaranteed, and storms and package supply shortages may result in shipping delays, as happened a few years ago.

To make sure your packages are safely delivered, here’s how to guard against porch pirates. (SOURCE)

Oregon Advocates See Overreach In Local Camping Restrictions in Grants Pass For Homeless After Court Ruling

Chain link fences ring the perimeters of the two designated homeless camping areas in Grants Pass. The two sites are the only spots where city officials allow homeless camping after they successfully defended their local camping ordinance before the U.S. Supreme Court.

In June, the nation’s highest court ruled in favor of Grants Pass, deciding that cities could impose criminal penalties without running afoul of constitutional provisions against cruel and unusual punishment.

Since then, city officials have limited where about 600 homeless people can pitch a tent or sleep to just two locations in the city of 39,000.

The new limitations have alarmed disability rights advocates and volunteer medical outreach workers who treat the people staying there.

“We have to stop blaming the people who’ve been forced to live outside because of this massive housing shortage, not just blaming them, but vilifying them and arresting them and jailing them,” said Edward Johnson with the Oregon Law Center who represented the plaintiffs before the Supreme Court.

Mayor Sara Bristol said having two sites is intended to keep smaller ones from popping up throughout Grants Pass and provide a temporary location while working toward long-term goals like shelter beds.

Broadly, Grants Pass shows how cities across the U.S. are challenged with  crafting local camping ordinances that balance the rights of unhoused people with competing interests, from business owners to those with disabilities trying to access a sidewalk without obstacles blocking their way.

What’s more, a lack of adequate shelter beds falls far short of the nation’s growing homeless population, which was 653,104 people in a point-in-time count in January 2023. The system has about 218,000 fewer shelter beds than necessary, that report found.

As homelessness becomes more political, rhetoric during elections conflate homelessness with crime, leading candidates to promise to get tough on the issue, Johnson said. Once considered allies, Democratic leaders find themselves under pressure to respond in their communities, with some weighing President-elect Donald Trump’s stance of clearing camps and relocating people to land with some social services.

But that’s not a solution. “It may be a short-term solution to getting reelected, but it is not going to end homelessness,” he said.

After the U.S. Supreme Court ruling, Grants Pass city officials enacted a new policy designating homeless camping to the two lots nearly a mile apart, instead of any city park. What’s more, people can only stay in each spot for seven days. This means they must move between the two locations every week. (READ MORE)

Murdock Trust Announces Grants to Oregon Nonprofits

Today, the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust published its Summer 2024 Grants Report. The report announces:

• 74 total grants to Pacific Northwest nonprofits totaling $20,745,200.
• This includes more than $6.2 million through 22 grants to nonprofits serving the Oregon community.
• The report can be found here. A full list of grantees can be found here.

The M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust is a private, nonprofit foundation that has invested more than $1.4 billion in nonprofits serving the Pacific Northwest since 1975. For details, please visit our website murdocktrust.org.

Frito-Lay Recalls Lay’s Classic Potato Chips In Oregon, Washington Over Undeclared Milk

Frito-Lay announced on Dec. 16 that it had issued a voluntary recall of a limited number of 13-oz. bags of Lay’s Classic Potato Chips due to the potential presence of undeclared milk. The recall follows a consumer contact who alerted the company to the issue.

Individuals with allergies or severe sensitivities to milk are at risk of serious or life-threatening reactions if they consume the affected product.

The recall applies specifically to 13-oz. Lay’s Classic Potato Chips distributed to retail stores and e-commerce platforms in Oregon and Washington. The chips were available for purchase beginning Nov. 3, 2024.

The recalled chips can be identified by their “Guaranteed Fresh” date of Feb. 11, 2025, and specific manufacturing codes listed as 6462307xx or 6463307xx. The product’s UPC is 28400 31041.

Frito-Lay has emphasized that the recall does not affect other Lay’s products, flavors, sizes, or variety packs.

The chips are packaged in flexible bags, and the company has provided detailed instructions for identifying the recalled product. Consumers who have purchased the affected chips are urged not to consume them and to discard them immediately.

No allergic reactions related to this issue have been reported to date. Frito-Lay notified the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) about the recall as part of its safety protocol.

Consumers with questions or concerns about the recall are encouraged to contact Frito-Lay Consumer Relations at 1-800-352-4477. Representatives are available Monday through Friday from 9 am to 4:30 pm CST.

This recall is a precautionary measure to protect individuals with milk allergies. Before consuming the product, consumers are advised to carefully check their chip bags for the specified date codes and manufacturing numbers.

New facial illustration released in Clatsop County cold case – Public assistance sought to identify remains

With the assistance of a new facial re-approximation from Parabon NanoLabs, a 25-year-old Oregon State Police (OSP) cold case is receiving new attention. Working closely with Oregon State Police Forensic Anthropologist Dr. Nici Vance, Parabon used the individual’s genetic phenotype to create the latest illustration.

On Nov. 3, 1999, mushroom pickers reported the discovery of human skeletal remains in rural Clatsop County. The unidentified partial remains were located in a wooded area off Hwy. 26 near milepost 29. At the time, searchers located remains over a wide area, including a skull and lower jaw with all the teeth present.

A forensic examination of the skeletal remains indicated the deceased is female, 16-30 years of age, about 5 ft. 2 in. tall, and weighing between 108-117 pounds. Forensic anthropologists believe the individual had given birth some time prior.

Investigators also found white athletic socks, Levi’s blue jeans size 33×34, a medium-sized black leather jacket, and a silver-colored “peace symbol” belt buckle in the same wooded area.

Investigators hope the new illustration will help renew interest in the case to determine the young woman’s identity. “This new illustration created by Parabon NanoLabs may be the key to unlocking her identity; we hope someone may recognize her now. We also know her ancestry includes relatives from Western Europe, West Africa, and Central America, which are huge clues to her origins and family. Everyone deserves the dignity of a name; through our partnership with Parabon NanoLabs, we will continue to search for her family and ultimately identify her.”

Since 2019, Parabon and the Oregon State Police have partnered to identify more than 30 previously unidentified individuals in Oregon using Parabon’s groundbreaking technology and investigative genetic genealogy research.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Detective Derek Rose through OSP’s Northern Command Center at 800-442-0776 or *OSP (*677) on a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP99433623.

AAA expects 119 million Americans including nearly 1.7 million Oregonians to travel for the holidays

– AAA projects 119.3 million Americans (35% of the population) including 1.68 million Oregonians will travel 50 miles or more for the Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Year holidays. This year’s travel volume narrowly beats the previous record set in 2019 by 64,000 travelers. AAA expects an additional three million travelers this holiday season compared to last year. 

The year-end holiday travel period is defined as Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024, through Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025.

“With Christmas falling on a Wednesday this year, many are taking the entire week off or working remotely so they can extend their holiday break,” says Doreen Loofburrow. “Travel demand has been strong all year, and now we’ll finish 2024 setting a new record for holiday travel,” says Doreen Loofburrow, senior vice president of travel for AAA Oregon/Idaho.

“AAA expects travel volumes to soar this holiday season, surpassing pre-pandemic numbers, as Americans drive, fly and cruise to celebrate Christmas and Hanukkah and ring in 2025. Expect busy roads and crowded airports, pack your patience, and have a plan B as weather is always the wildcard this time of year,” says Marie Dodds, public affairs director for AAA Oregon/Idaho.

Most travelers will drive – About 90% of travelers or 107 million Americans will drive to their holiday destinations. This is 2.5 million more than in 2023 but just shy of 2019’s record of 108 million. In Oregon, about 1.5 million will drive. Driving is often the most flexible and affordable way to travel, which is why it’s the number one mode. It’s especially appealing for families with small children.

Air travel to soar to record high – Air travel sets a record this holiday season, with 7.85 million Americans including 160,000 Oregonians taking to the skies. This surpasses the previous record of 7.5 million air travelers last year. In all, about 6.6% of all holiday travelers will fly to their destinations. Find AAA’s tips and advice for air travelers below.

Other modes will see highest volumes in 20 years – Travel by other modes, including cruises, trains and buses, will be the highest in 20 years with nearly 4.5 million travelers including about 62,000 Oregonians. This is up nearly 10% from last year. Domestic cruise bookings are up 37% compared to last holiday season. In all, about 3.7% of all travelers will go by these modes. Cruises are very popular over the holidays because they appeal to multiple generations and there’s something for everyone on board.

Top holiday destinations – These are the trending destinations for regional, domestic and international travel for members of AAA Oregon/Idaho based on bookings by our AAA travel agents and at AAA.com. 

Theme parks, beaches and European cities are among the most popular spots. Bend tops the list as the most popular regional destination again this year.

Gas prices are cheapest for the holidays in four years

Those taking a holiday road trip will find gas prices at their cheapest since 2020. The current (as of Dec. 17) national average for regular unleaded is $3.03 and the Oregon average is $3.47. These prices are at or near the year-to-date lows for 2024. Visit the AAA Fuel Prices website for current gas prices and EV charging rates.

AAA members can fill up for less at Shell stations when they join the Fuel Rewards® program at AAA.com/Shell. Save 30¢/gal on your first fill-up at Shell when you join the Fuel Rewards® program by 12/31/25 and make your first transaction within 30 days of joining. After that, save 5¢/gal every day on each individual fill-up of up to 20 gallons from participating Shell stations.  Find current fuel prices at GasPrices.AAA.com.

Best and worst times to drive; Peak traffic expected December 22 and 29 – The busiest days for road trippers are expected to be Sunday, December 22 as folks head out to their Christmas destinations, and again on Sunday, December 29 as people return home. But roads will be busier than usual throughout the holiday season with a record number of travelers going by car. The afternoon and evening hours from December 19 through December 23, and from December 26 through January 2, will all have more congestion, especially on the weekdays in urban areas as commuters mix with holiday travelers, The lightest traffic is expected on December 24 and 25.

Some metro areas across the U.S. could have travel times that are two to three times longer than typical drive times, especially in larger urban areas. In Oregon, drivers can expect that their trips will take 8% to 50% longer than a normal commute, assuming no additional delays from crashes or winter weather.

“Leave early if you can. Mornings during the holiday season are the times with the least congestion. You can also avoid the heaviest traffic by traveling on the actual holidays – December 24, 25, 31 and January 1. But with a record number of travelers taking a holiday road trip, assume traffic will be heavier than usual and that it will probably take you longer to get to your destination,” says Dodds.

AAA also recommends using traffic apps, local Department of Transportation notifications, 511 services, and local news and traffic reports to get real-time updates.

Grants available for main street building projects statewide

The State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) is offering grants for up to $400,000 in matching funds for downtown revitalization efforts in communities participating in the Oregon Main Street Network. The Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant funds may be used to acquire, rehabilitate, and construct buildings on properties in designated downtown areas statewide.

Funded projects must facilitate community revitalization that will lead to private investment, job creation or retention, establishing or expanding viable businesses, or creating a stronger tax base. Projects may include façade improvement, accessibility enhancement, basic utilities, second floor renovations, and more. Only organizations participating in the Oregon Main Street Network are eligible to apply. Projects must be within approved Main Street areas. Eligible organizations may collaborate with the local governments and private property owners to apply for projects that will have the biggest benefit to the downtown. The grant application deadline is March 13, 2025. 

In 2015, Oregon legislation established a permanent fund for the grant and provided an initial $2.5 million of funding as part of a larger lottery bond package. The $10,000,000 lottery bond funding for this grant cycle was approved in the 2023 legislative session.

Preservation office staff is happy to talk with applicants about potential grant projects and review applications prior to submitting. A free online workshop specific to the Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant will be January 9, 2025 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Registration is required. 

Other resources available include:

• Prepping for the Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant – with tips for organizational preparation and project planning and selection. 
• Heritage Bulletin: Board Involvement with Grants – with tips on organizational success for grant management. 
• Secretary of Interior Standards for Historic Rehabilitation – A webinar to share with the team and property owners. 

To learn more about the grant and workshop, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Kuri Gill at i.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov“>Kuri.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-6085. To learn more about the Oregon Main Street Network contact Sheri Stuart at i.Stuart@oprd.oregon.gov“>Sheri.Stuart@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-0679.

Oregon’s Nonfarm Payroll Employment Rises by 5,100 in November

In November, Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment gained 5,100 jobs, following a revised increase of 3,500 jobs in October. November’s gains were largest in health care and social assistance (+2,300 jobs); construction (+2,100); and professional and business services (+700). Declines were largest in leisure and hospitality (-700 jobs).

Private health care and social assistance has been adding jobs very rapidly since June 2022. It expanded by 41,700 jobs, or 15.6%, during that 29-month period. The fastest growing components during that time were social assistance (+17,800 jobs, or 27.0%) and nursing and residential care facilities (+9,400 jobs, or 19.3%). The other two component industries also added jobs, but grew less rapidly: hospitals (+6,800 jobs, or 11.9%) and ambulatory health care services (+10,200 jobs, or 10.7%).

Construction rebounded in November from a three-month dip, returning the sector’s total employment to 117,500, about where it had been from July 2022 through August 2024.

In the past 12 months, health care and social assistance (+17,500 jobs, or 6.0%) grew rapidly, while government (+6,900 jobs, or 2.2%) added the second most jobs. In that time, only two major industries declined by 1,000 jobs or more: retail trade (-1,700 jobs, or -0.8%) and leisure and hospitality (-1,400 jobs, or -0.7%). About half of the major industries were essentially flat over the year, with job changes of less than 1,200 in either direction.

Oregon’s unemployment rate was 4.1% in November and 4.0% in October and has consistently remained between 4.0% and 4.2% since October 2023. The U.S. unemployment rate was 4.2% in November and 4.1% in October.

AmeriCorps NCCC Partnership Boosts Oregon’s Emergency Response

Join us in strengthening Oregon’s resilience by hosting an AmeriCorps NCCC team to support your community’s disaster response and recovery efforts!

Oregon is taking a significant step forward in enhancing its emergency response capabilities through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between OregonServes and the AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC). This strategic partnership represents a collaborative effort to bolster statewide disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.

For more information on this partnership contact: Jennifer Denning Disaster Services Coordinator, OregonServes Jennifer.l.denning@hecc.oregon.gov.

What is AmeriCorps NCCC?

AmeriCorps NCCC is a full-time, team-based program for young adults aged 18-26. Members commit to a term of national service, which can include critical disaster response and recovery services. Through this partnership, NCCC teams will be integrated into Oregon’s disaster preparedness framework, offering vital support before, during, and after disasters.

Key Benefits of the Partnership:

This partnership brings several critical advantages to Oregon communities, including:

• NCCC teams work on a variety of projects filling critical gaps in local resources.
• NCCC members collaborate with local communities to strengthen response efforts, thereby accelerating recovery and repopulation of residents.
• NCCC teams focus on ensuring that underserved and vulnerable populations receive critical resources and assistance during emergencies, bridging equity gaps in disaster response and recovery.
• By integrating local resources with national service members, this partnership enhances Oregon’s capacity to build resilient communities.

Key Dates:

Nationally, NCCC Disaster Service Applications are received throughout the year. For purposes of the NCCC-OregonServes MOU, Pacific Region teams or Summer of Service can serve during these timelines (precise dates will vary year-to-year):

• November 1 – December 16
• January 8- April 16
• April 24 – July 23 (Traditional program applications due, February 7, 2025)
• Summer of Service June 20 – August 1

How to Apply to Be a Disaster Response AmeriCorps Volunteer:

First, download the application instructions below. Then, complete the Service Project Application for Disaster Response. No Project Concept Form is required.

Please note: Download the following document directly to your computer. Open and complete the document using Adobe Reader or Adobe Acrobat.

• NCCC Disaster Response Application Instructions
• AmeriCorps NCCC Disaster Project Application

Applications and questions should be submitted to: NCCCPRTerritory2@americorps.gov.

Want to Make Your Organization a Project Sponsor?

Nonprofit and faith-based organizations, government entities, public schools, and universities, as well as tribal and native nations are eligible to apply. Organizations complete an application detailing the need and project design and NCCC will review submissions and make a final determination. To learn more about AmeriCorps NCCC and how to apply, please visit the AmeriCorps NCCC webpage.

If you have someone on your holiday gift list that enjoys the outdoors, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife has gift ideas.

If they hunt or fish, you can buy them a license. If they kayak or raft, you can buy a waterway access permit. For wildlife viewers or hikers, the wildlife area parking permit costs 30 dollars. You can also make a donation in someone’s name to the Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund. https://myodfw.com/articles/gift-outdoors

Oregon State Parks Offering Discounted Parking Passes – Give the gift of the outdoors and save this season with the Oregon State Parks 12-month parking permit sale during December.

Shoppers can buy the annual parking permits for only $25 (regularly $30) from Dec. 1 through Dec. 31. The permit is good for 12 months starting in the month of purchase at the 25 parks that currently charge for parking.

The annual permit is an even better option for frequent park visitors in 2025 when day-use parking fees will increase from $5 to $10 on Jan. 2, 2025.

Purchasing permits is easy. Visitors can buy them online at Oregon State Parks store. They’re also available at select park stores operated by friends’ groups, park visitor centers and local businesses throughout the state. For a complete list, visit stateparks.oregon.gov.

The daily parking fee is required at the 25 parks that charge for day-use parking unless visitors have a 12-month or 24-month parking permit or a same-day camping receipt. The parking fee does not apply to those who hike, bike or use public transportation.

The 24-month permit is $50 and is also available at OregonStateParkStore. The cost for the 12-month and 24-month permits is not currently increasing. The permits are transferable from vehicle to vehicle.

Ways to get and give help this holiday season

‘Tis the season for connection and caring for one another. But we also know this time of year can be challenging for many families. So whether you need a little extra support, or are looking for ways to give back to your community, we’ve got some suggestions to make the holiday season special.

Ways to get holiday help:

1. Visit the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) holiday resources webpage

Our 2024 holiday resources webpage has a list of local organizations that can provide hot meals, toys, winter clothes and more for families and individuals this holiday season. The page is available in English and Spanish, and you can sort the list by county to find resources in your area.

2. Connect with 211info

Not seeing anything near you on our list? Dial 2-1-1 to connect with someone who can guide you to the support you need. You can also visit 211info.org, enter your zip code, and search for “Holiday Gifts/Toys,” “Christmas Baskets,” or “Christmas Meals.”

3. Reach out to your local ODHS office

We’re here to help! Our local office staff often know about upcoming events and resources in your community. We can also help you learn more about services that be accessed year-round, like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Oregon Health Plan (OHP), and more.

Ways to give holiday help:

1. Donate to ODHS or a community organization

ODHS partners with many community organizations that collect donations, like food, clothes, and toys, that support children in foster care, older adults, families in need, and more. For 2024, we’ve compiled a list with some of the ways you can donate to help the families ODHS serves. Don’t see anything on the list in your area? Contact your local ODHS office for more suggestions. You can also make a financial contribution to ODHS and specify how you want it to be used by emailing dhs.volunteerservices@odhs.oregon.gov.

2. Volunteer

Your time is one of the most valuable gifts you can give. At ODHS, we have several temporary volunteer opportunities this holiday season for things like wrapping donations, delivering gifts, and helping at holiday parties for children in ODHS care. Email dhs.volunteerservices@odhs.oregon.gov to learn about holiday openings or to get involved longer-term. If that’s not for you, we also recommend reaching out to local nonprofits or community centers with missions you believe in to see how you can help.

3. Build community connections

Sometimes, the best way to give back is by simply showing up. Attend local events, check in on your neighbors, and spread the word about the ways to get help that we listed above. A little kindness and connection can go a long way!

Holiday Express Steams Up – Rides run every Friday – Sunday through Jan. 4.

The countdown is on! The first day of the highly anticipated Holiday Express is almost here, and it’s your chance to ride a train pulled by a historic steam locomotive—an unforgettable experience like no other.

Santa’s nearly ready—list checked, elves prepped, lights sparkling, and candy canes in hand. The only thing missing is YOU!

Get your tickets now for this beloved annual tradition. Create lasting memories with friends and family aboard the Holiday Express. Rides begin Nov. 29 and run every Friday – Sunday through Jan. 4.

Special Offer: Get 10% off select rides from Nov. 29 to Dec. 8! But don’t wait, tickets are selling fast.

Be part of the magic this holiday season. Reserve your seat today! Oregon Rail Heritage Center 

Media contest invites Oregon high school students to promote young worker safety; entries due Feb. 21, 2025

Salem – High school students across Oregon are encouraged to put their video or graphic design skills on display by competing for cash prizes as part of a larger cause: increasing awareness about workplace safety and health for young workers.

The 2025 media contest, organized by the Oregon Young Employee Safety (O[yes]) Coalition, calls on participants to create an ad – through a compelling graphic design or video – that grabs their peers’ attention and convinces them to take the Young Employee Safety Awareness online training.

Participants get to choose the key message, theme, or tagline they believe will go furthest in capturing their audience and moving it to act. The target audience? Teen workers or teens who are preparing to work for the first time. The contest is now open for submissions. To compete, participants may submit either a graphic design or a video that is no more than 90 seconds in length.

Participants are expected to choose their key message, theme, or tagline in a wise and positive manner, including constructive and effective messages and language.

The top three entries in each of the two media categories will take home cash prizes ranging from $300 to $500. In each category, the first-place winner’s school, club, or organization will receive a matching award. Moreover, O[yes] will use the best of the submissions as ads in its ongoing efforts to improve on-the-job safety and health protections for teens.

While they carry out their projects, participants must ensure the health and safety of their team. No one should be endangered while creating their video or graphic design project.

The deadline for submissions is 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21, 2025. 

Participants are encouraged to submit entries online. Submissions may also be mailed on a USB thumb drive or delivered in person.

For more information about the entry form and rules, contest expectations, and resources – including previous contest winners  – visit the O[yes] online contest page.

The contest sponsors are local Oregon chapters of the American Society of Safety Professionals, Construction Safety Summit, Central Oregon Safety & Health Association, Hoffman Construction Company, Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), Oregon OSHA, SafeBuild Alliance, SAIF Corporation, and the Oregon Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP) Alliance.

### About Oregon OSHA: Oregon OSHA enforces the state’s workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit osha.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

About the Oregon Young Employee Safety Coalition (O[yes]): (O[yes]) is a nonprofit dedicated to preventing young worker injuries and fatalities. O[yes] members include safety and health professionals, educators, employers, labor and trade associations, and regulators. Visit youngemployeesafety.org.

Contact us: Info@OregonBeachMagazine.com