Oregon Beach News, Friday 11/15 – King Tide Warnings for the Weekend, Candlelight Vigil Planned Saturday for Joshua McCoy & 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, November 15, 2024

Oregon Beach Weather

Active Weather Alerts – National Weather Service

...SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 10 PM PST THIS EVENING... 
...HAZARDOUS SEAS WATCH IN EFFECT FROM SATURDAY AFTERNOON THROUGH LATE SATURDAY NIGHT... 
* WHAT...For the Small Craft Advisory, seas 12 to 15 ft at 14 seconds expected, gradually lowering to below 10 feet this evening. For the Hazardous Seas Watch, south winds 20 to 30 kt and very steep and hazardous seas 10 to 11 ft at 7 seconds possible. 
* WHERE...All areas. 
* WHEN...For the Small Craft Advisory, until 10 PM PST this evening. For the Hazardous Seas Watch, from Saturday afternoon through late Saturday night. 
* IMPACTS...For the Small Craft Advisory, steep seas could capsize or damage smaller vessels. For the Hazardous Seas Watch, gusty winds and very steep, hazardous seas could capsize or damage vessels. Bar crossing could become especially hazardous. * View the hazard area in detail at https://go.usa.gov/x6hks

King Tide Warnings for the Weekend

Authorities along the Oregon coast are sending a warning about dangerous high tides this weekend referred to as king tides.

King tides are the highest tides that we see, and they occur in the months of November, December and January. They can draw a lot of people to the beach but police say it’s extremely important you stay off the beach all together.

Police are asking people to watch the king tides from a distance and from locations that are well above the water. They also say you want to avoid being anywhere near a cliff’s edge.

King tides happen when the moon is closest to the earth, and there is currently a full moon. The sun, earth and moon all come into alignment and create a strong gravitational pull for the ocean, resulting in extremely high tides.

We are currently seeing a supermoon which appears larger and brighter than a usual full moon and is also called the Beaver Moon. Officials at OMSI says it’s likely called that because beavers are very busy this time of year getting ready for winter.

King tides are especially dangerous in the winter in Oregon because we typically have a lot of rain, storms and larger waves.

Candlelight Vigil Planned Saturday 11/16 for Joshua McCoy

People in the community are organizing a candlelight vigil for Joshua McCoy, the 5-year-old boy who was found deceased Tuesday after being missing for several days. The vigil will take place at North Bay Elementary School in North Bend, at the field behind the playground on Saturday, at 6 p.m. Shauna Bogart, one of the people organizing the event, said Saturday would have been Joshua’s 6th birthday.

While she never met Joshua, she said the community is so tight knit that when tragedy strikes, it’s important to come together. Bogart said, Saturday’s vigil is open to the public. Donations will be accepted for Joshua’s family, some of whom will be present at the vigil.

——- It is with immense sadness that we have to report that missing Joshua McCoy has been found deceased. Joshua had been missing since the late evening of Saturday, November 9th, 2024. Joshua was reported to North Coos dispatch via third party at 6:27 pm.

At approximately 6:45 PM, first responders arrived on scene. Soon after, it was discovered the child had a cellphone, and a phone-ping of that phone was conducted. The information related to the phone-ping did not provide any fruitful information.

Several Deputies began a search of the property, while investigating the allegations of Joshua being picked up by a known family member which was later found not be factual. An ‘Attempt To Locate’ (ATL) was sent out to all surrounding agencies.

On Sunday, November 10th, deputies continued to search the property and surrounding areas, along with several volunteers from Coos County Search and Rescue including K9 units, ground and Drone operators. A pond on the property was drained and nothing of interest was located.

During Sunday’s search, additional resources were requested from neighboring counties in southern Oregon and northern California. Law enforcement remained on scene until the following crews arrived in the morning to continue the investigation.

At approximately 6:00 AM, on Monday, November 11th, Deputies and SAR volunteers continued the search and rescue operation. Several members of local fire departments arrived to assist in the search. Additional CORSAR assistance was requested for the next day, which consists of search and rescue members from several Counties within Oregon and California.

On Tuesday, November 12th, the search continued with help from our federal partners, local Search and Rescue, along with CORSAR. CORSAR is providing additional Search and Rescue members from California, and from several Counties within Oregon.

Today, around 12:30 PM, Joshua was discovered deceased and found approximately 1.6 miles straight line distance North-West from the child’s residence, and almost 2 miles by road. The investigation is on-going and no additional information will be released at this time.

The areas that have been searched have been very thorough and methodical due to the circumstances behind the disappearance. We have had amazing support from the community in feeding all of these volunteers.

Thank you to the departments and agencies assisting Coos County Sheriff’s Office; Homeland Security, FBI, OSP, NCMEC, Bandon pd, MP pd, Coos Bay PD, Lincoln co. SO, all seven CORSAR counties, Charleston fire, NB fire, coquille fire, Mp fire and ambulance among others.

The public is invited to join the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians on Saturday, Nov. 16, as it holds its annual Restoration Pow-Wow at Chinook Winds Casino Resort in Lincoln City.

American Indian vendors with jewelry, beadwork and other items for sale will be available throughout the day, leading up to the Grand Entry at 6 p.m.

This is the 47th year that the Siletz Tribe has celebrated the signing of Public Law 95-195, which re-established government-to-government relations with the federal government, making it the second tribe in the nation and the first in Oregon to achieve restoration.

The combination of Tribal employees and those at Chinook Winds Casino Resort has made the Siletz Tribe the largest employer in Lincoln County.

The Siletz Tribe has honored its tradition of sharing within the community by distributing more than $22.6 million through the Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund and other Tribal resources from proceeds at its Chinook Winds Casino.

In turn, Chinook Winds has donated more than $6.5 million in cash and fund-raising items since 1995. It also provides in-kind donations of convention space for various fund-raisers as well as technical support, advertising and manpower for events.

Earthquake and tsunami preparedness class offered Saturday

Exploring New Concepts of Retirement Education is partnering with Clatsop County Emergency Management to present a free earthquake and tsunami preparedness class from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday at the Astoria Senior Center on Exchange Street.

The instructor is Karen Elder, a retired teacher and geologist. The event is open to the public, and seating is limited.

The class will explain what to do before, during and after an earthquake or tsunami, and provide tips for staying safe at home, along with information on what supplies to keep on hand. Inundation maps and other pamphlets will be available. For information, go to encorelearn.net.

Update Regarding Officer Involved Shooting — Waldport, Oregon

On Sunday, November 10, 2024, at approximately 7:40pm, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of shots fired from 1015 SE Rolph Court, Waldport, Oregon. Deputy Benjamin Cloud, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, was first on scene and took up an observation position to the south of the residence. While waiting for additional officers to respond, a subject exited the residence with a firearm and was ultimately shot by Deputy Cloud. Deputies immediately rendered medical aid and the subject was transported by ambulance. The subject was pronounced deceased while enroute to Samaritan Pacific Communities Hospital in Newport. 

The deceased has been identified as 38-year-old female Virginia Lee Morris of Waldport, Oregon. Next of kin has been notified. The subject’s firearm was recovered from the scene. No other individuals were harmed during this event.

Pursuant to Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office policy, Deputy Cloud has been placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation into the use of deadly force. Deputy Cloud has been employed with the Sheriff’s Office for 11 years.

The investigation into this incident is being conducted by members of the Lincoln County Major Crime Team with the Lincoln City Police Department assuming the lead investigator role. Assisting in the investigation are detectives from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Newport Police Department, Toledo Police Department and Oregon State Police.

Fatal Crash – HWY 101 – Curry County

A 39-year-old pedestrian from Brookings is dead after a car accident Sunday morning at 1 a.m. on Highway 101. 

According to a news release from Oregon State Police, the crash happened at 1 a.m. near milepost 358.

The pedestrian, James Lorin Tavel, was walking when a driver — 34-year-old Tiffany Lyne Camp of Brookings — hit him. 

“[Camp] then fled the scene and was arrested later by law enforcement,” the release said. 

Tavel was declared dead when police arrived at the scene, the release said. Camp and her passenger, 37-year-old Julia Pettigrew of Brookings, were not hurt. 

 A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support the family of James Lorin Tavel, a Brookings resident who was fatally struck by a vehicle early Sunday. Tavel, 38, was hit around 1 a.m. near milepost 358.

The funds raised will cover Tavel’s cremation, a celebration of life, and future support for his two children. Organizers described Tavel as a beloved father, fisherman, and friend, urging the community to come together in his memory.

The funds raised will cover Tavel’s cremation, a celebration of life, and future support for his two children. Organizers described Tavel as a beloved father, fisherman, and friend, urging the community to come together in his memory.

The crash that killed Tavel led to a six-hour closure of the highway as Oregon State Police conducted an on-scene investigation. The driver, identified as Tiffany Lyne Camp, 34, of Brookings, allegedly fled the scene unharmed but was later apprehended.

Original Post —————– On Sunday, November 10, 2024, at 1:00 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian crash on Hwy 101, near milepost 358, in Curry County.

The preliminary investigation indicated pedestrian, James Lorin Tavel (39) of Brookings, was struck in the northbound lane by Honda CRV, operated by Tiffany Lyne Camp (34) of Brookings. The Honda operator fled the scene and was arrested later by law enforcement.

The pedestrian (Tavel) was declared deceased at the scene.

The Honda operator (Camp) and passenger, Julia Pettigrew (37) of Brookings, were not injured.

The highway was impacted for approximately six hours during the on-scene investigation. The crash is under criminal investigation at this time.

OSP was assisted by the Brookings Fire Department, Brookings Police Department, and ODOT.

# # # About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in the documentation, investigation, and analysis of complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in the use of advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Economic development officials along the south Oregon coast say a housing crunch is hindering growth.

A new 400-home subdivision in the works for Oregon’s south coast city of Coos Bay could ease the area’s housing crunch and support an era of economic growth for the former timber stronghold. At least that’s the hope of its developer, Greg Drobot.

It’s the latest project for the Face Rock Creamery co-founder who has mainly focused on commercial developments in the area for more than a decade.

“I talked to so many tenants that said they would hire more people, lease more space if they just had more places for their employees to live,” Drobot said. “I talked to the hospital, I talked to many other groups — and they would have a job opening, they would be so excited, and a great candidate would come to the area, and they’d say, ‘well, there’s nowhere for me to live. I can’t take this position.’ So it really was a headwind to economic growth.”

The Coos Bay area has had it tough economically since the timber industry mostly fled in the 1990s. No economic driver of the same caliber has emerged. Large projects have been proposed — such as a controversial liquefied natural gas export terminal — and then failed to come to fruition. Industries like tourism and fishing are important to the area, but their growth is moderate at best.

Some of the south coast’s economic development challenges relate to its remote location.But one thing hampering economic growth in Coos Bay is a familiar problem across the country: not enough housing.

This fall Drobot took over as developer of record for Timber Cove, a proposed housing subdivision on the west side of Coos Bay. Drobot’s team expects to build a total of 400 three- and four-bedroom houses between 1,500 and 1,800 square feet, with prices starting around $400,000. The goal is to begin construction early next year and complete the first set of homes by spring 2026.

While 400 homes may be a modest addition in cities like Portland or even Eugene, Drobot said in Coos Bay, it’s among the city’s largest housing developments in history.

It comes as communities across Oregon are hungry for more housing. The dearth of affordable homes in the state is driving the state’s large number of people experiencing homelessness. Statewide officials and local leaders throughout Oregon are pushing for more construction, and Gov. Tink Kotek wants the state to build more than 35,000 new homes a year.

Economic development advocates in Coos Bay say the lack of housing is hurting growth and opportunity on the south coast. In a report for the Coos Bay city council, researchers found that the area would need at least 600 new housing units by 2040 to accommodate the expected population growth of around 1,300 people. Read More: https://www.ijpr.org/housing/2024-11-12/coos-bay-needs-600-new-homes-by-2040-a-planned-subdivision-could-get-the-city-most-of-the-way-there

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.

Arrest Made In Sexual Abuse Of A Minor Case
Lincoln City Police 

On Tuesday, November 5, 2024, Detectives from Lincoln City Police Department arrested 53-year-old Angela Rose Schafer, of Lincoln City on charges related to the sexual abuse of a minor. 

Detectives began the investigation after the victim came forward and reported the activity to law enforcement. Detectives learned that the suspect, Angela Schafer, was a Lincoln County School District employee who worked at Taft High and Taft Elementary schools. Upon receiving the report, Detectives moved quickly but thoroughly, and as part of their investigation, obtained a search warrant for Schafer’s residence. It is believed that the crimes occurred in January of 2024 and the victim was a student of Taft High School. 

On November 5, 2024, LCPD Detectives served the search warrant on Schafer’s residence and she was arrested from the school. Schafer was subsequently lodged at the Lincoln County Jail on the following criminal charges: Rape in the third degree, Sexual Abuse in the third degree, Contributing to the Sexual Delinquency of a Minor, and Furnishing Alcohol to a Minor. 

LCPD would like to thank the Lincoln County School District for their full cooperation and assistance with our investigation. 

If anyone has any information regarding this case, please contact Detective Bud Lane at 541-994-3636.

Razor Clam Harvest Closure Cascade Head to California Border

– Razor clam harvesting is now closed from Cascade Head to the California border the Oregon Department of Agriculture and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife announced. Recent razor clam samples indicate levels of domoic acid (a marine biotoxin) are above the safety threshold.

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 harvest closures and openings:

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.

Crabs:

OPEN coastwide.

NOTE: sport crabbing in the ocean off the Oregon coast is closed through Nov. 30.

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.

Contact ODFW for recreational license requirements, permits, rules, and limits. https://www.dfw.state.or.us/news/2024/10_Oct/102524.asp

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

Reward of up to $25,000 Offered in Ballot Box Fire Case

The FBI’s Seattle Field Office is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of the person responsible setting incendiary fires at two ballot boxes in Vancouver, Washington, and one in Portland, Oregon. The FBI’s Seeking Information poster can be found here: https://www.fbi.gov/wanted/seeking-info/ballot-box-fires

On October 8, 2024, between 3:30 and 4:00 a.m., an unknown individual placed an improvised incendiary device on a ballot drop box in Vancouver, Washington. Subsequently, on October 28, 2024, between 2:00 and 4:00 a.m., improvised incendiary devices were placed on ballot drop boxes in Vancouver, Washington, and Portland, Oregon. 

A surveillance camera captured images of an early 2003 to 2004 Volvo S-60 sedan, dark in color, with dark wheels and a light-colored interior, driven by the suspect believed to responsible for these crimes. The vehicle does not have a Volvo logo on the front grill. At the time of the October 28, 2024, incidents, the vehicle also displayed a fraudulent temporary Washington license plate on the rear and no front license plate. The plate, which is not associated with a Volvo, may no longer be on the vehicle. 

The driver of the vehicle is described as a White male, approximately 30 to 40 years old with thinning hair. It is believed that he may have some experience with metal work and welding.

Anyone with information is asked to call your nearest FBI office, provide information online at tips.fbi.gov, or call 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). FBI – Oregon 

Groundbreaking Dedication Event for Vietnam Veterans Memorial at Oregon State Capitol- Friday, November 22, 2024 | 2:00 p.m.

The Oregon State Capitol will be the site of the highly anticipated dedication ceremony for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial on Friday, November 22, at 2:00 p.m. This momentous event will be the formal dedication of Phase 1 of the memorial, which honors the service and sacrifice of Oregon’s Vietnam veterans. The public ceremony will occur at Salem’s Willson Park memorial site on the Capitol grounds, at the corner of State and Cottage Street, with a reception to follow at the nearby Withnell Family YMCA. 

The memorial pays tribute to 710 Oregonians who lost their lives in the Vietnam War, along with the more than 180,000 Oregonians who served in Vietnam and around the world from 1955-1975. The design features 46 black granite columns engraved with the names of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. It creates a reflective space for veterans, families, and the public to honor their memory. 

The event will include comments from local veterans, state officials, and Vietnam War Memorial Fund members, who have been instrumental in making this project a reality. The event is hosted by the Oregon Vietnam War Memorial Fund and is supported by a grant of Transient Occupancy Tax from the City of Salem.

The Importance of the Memorial – The Vietnam War remains one of the most challenging and divisive periods in American history. Veterans returning from the conflict were often met with indifference or hostility, making this memorial an overdue recognition of their service. The memorial offers a space for healing and remembrance, honoring both the sacrifices of the fallen and the resilience of those who served. Steve Bates, President and co-founder of the Vietnam War Memorial Fund (VWMF), emphasized the emotional impact of this project. “This is about giving our veterans a place of rest and, for all of us, a place to heal,” Bates said. The memorial will not only commemorate the service of Vietnam veterans but also serve as a reminder of the war’s lasting impact on the state and its people. 

Beyond its role as a place of remembrance, the memorial will also serve as an educational resource when Phase 2 is completed. Phase 2, the Exhibit Phase, aims to help future generations understand the human cost of war and the bravery of those who fought.

For more information, see a virtual tour or donate, visit ocvvm.com. 

About the VWMF: Vietnam War Memorial Fund’s website at www.ocvvm.com. The Vietnam War Memorial Fund is a recognized 501(c)3 organization, and all donations are tax-deductible to the extent of applicable tax law. You can donate by sending a check to the Vietnam War Memorial Fund – P O Box 1448 – Boring, Oregon 97009 or by credit card at www.ocvvm.com.

Pertussis case count, expected to beat record, alarms health officials

Vaccinations urged as whooping cough on track to pass 910 cases in 2024

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon is expected to surpass its record of 910 pertussis cases by the end of 2024, prompting health officials to sharpen their warnings about the disease’s serious risks—especially for young babies—and their emphasis on the importance of vaccination.

As of Nov. 13, Oregon has seen a total of 827 cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, in 23 counties during 2024, according to Oregon Health Authority (OHA) data. At least one person, an older adult, has died.

In 2012, 910 pertussis cases were reported, the highest annual count since 1953.

“I’m worried, given the time of year, because people are attending indoor holiday gatherings, and those gatherings often include newborns who are too young to be vaccinated,” said Paul Cieslak, M.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at OHA’s Public Health Division.

Lane County has the highest number of pertussis cases this year with 249. The other counties with the highest case counts are Multnomah with 180, Clackamas with 109, Washington with 67 and Deschutes with 59. The median age of cases is 11, with the range between 5 weeks and 89 years.

Babies too young to be fully vaccinated suffer the most from pertussis, with the highest reported incidence rate and highest likelihood of hospitalization and death. This is because babies don’t start building protection against infection until they are vaccinated at 2 months old. With the exception of 2024, Oregon pertussis deaths have been limited to infants—five have occurred since 2003.

Public health experts urge pregnant people to get the Tdap vaccine – which protects a person against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis – at 27–36 weeks’ gestation. The mothers will make antibodies and pass them to their babies across the placenta, which lowers the risk of pertussis in babies younger than 2 months by 78%–91%.

Vaccination against pertussis is routinely recommended for infants, children, adolescents and adults. Children should receive the DTaP vaccine against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis at 2, 4, 6 and 15 to 18 months, and again at age 4 to kindergarten age. All persons 10 and older, including those 65 and older, who have not had the single-dose Tdap vaccine should get it now.

Data from January through Nov. 13 show 406 (49%) of this year’s cases had zero doses of documented pertussis vaccines, and only 361 (44%) were up to date on vaccines. Among the 75 infant cases, only 11 mothers were documented to have received the recommended dose of Tdap during pregnancy.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic—when restrictions that included masking requirements and school closures were in effect—annual case tallies routinely reached triple digits, but dropped to three in 2021. But this year’s to-date 827 cases, which represents a nearly 2,500% increase from the 32 cases reported by the same period in 2023, has surprised state and local public health officials.

“It’s concerning,” said Lisandra Guzman, M.D., Lane County’s deputy public health officer and a preventive medicine physician. “Pertussis is very contagious, and that’s one of the reasons it’s so hard to control.”

Another reason, Guzman explained, is that early in an infection, pertussis can be confused with respiratory viral infections. “What you think may be a simple cold can turn out to be pertussis, because that’s how it begins—with a mild upper respiratory infection. After a couple weeks, the whooping cough begins.”

Jennifer Gibbons, N.D., a naturopathic physician in Portland, says 80% of her family medicine practice is pediatrics, and she can cite many examples of a pertussis infection’s devastating effects on children. She recalls seeing a 5-month-old baby whose mother explained the child would have difficulty breathing and cough until she vomited, then seem fine minutes later.

“I’m talking to her, and she has this perfectly healthy-looking 5-month-old baby, who then all of a sudden starts coughing, and her face turns dark red, and she’s gasping for breath while she’s trying to cough up all the secretions,” Gibbons remembers. “With pertussis, they get into these spasms of coughing that they can’t stop, and they’re often bringing up large amounts of mucus. It’s very scary.”

Cieslak, Guzman and Gibbons agree that getting children vaccinated with all doses of DTaP, and adults—particularly pregnant people—vaccinated with Tdap is the best way to protect young children, older adults, and their families and friends during the holidays, and beyond.

“I’ve had multiple families say, ‘If I had known how bad this was going to be, I would have vaccinated.’ I use that to tell other families,” Gibbons says. She also reminds families that “kids tolerate this vaccine very well. I find it to be a really useful, safe and effective vaccine.”

When an infant or pregnant person is in the household of someone with pertussis, all household members should receive a course of antibiotics effective against Bordetella pertussis—typically, a five-day course of azithromycin.

Oregon School districts, employees face $670 million increase in payments to public pension system

The increased costs for schools to the Public Employee Retirement System in the next two years will more than wipe out the governor’s proposed increases in school funding

Oregon school districts are projected to pay $670 million more to the state’s public employee pension program over the next two years, potentially wiping out all increases to school funding proposed by Gov. Tina Kotek. 

The increased tab, more than 10% for some districts, follows lagging returns in investments of the Public Employees Retirement system and could affect teaching and learning in some schools.

“Next year’s sharp jumps in PERS rates will take significant money away from classrooms without making life any better for current educators,” Emielle Nischik, executive director of the Oregon School Boards Association, said in an email.  “School districts have done their best to mitigate PERS’ pain, but it is out of their control.” 

The impact will vary, with most of Oregon’s 197 school districts and 17 community colleges facing an average 1.5% increase in their payroll going to PERS during the 2025-27 budget cycle, according to a PERS presentation last month. 

But 22 districts are facing average increases of 10% or more in part because investment returns have been lower than expected but mainly because side investment accounts meant to help buffer PERS increases are expiring. For 72 school districts that don’t have one of these accounts, the average contribution rate for PERS will soon amount to about 27% of payroll.

Overall, school districts and colleges will pay $565 million more in the next two years compared with the 2023-25 biennium, while about 77,000 vested employees, who also pay into PERS, will pay $105 million more. 

The increased costs to districts will more than erase the $515 million boost proposed by Kotek for school funding for the 2025-26 and 2026-27 school years. She announced in July that she’d ask the state Legislature early next year to send more than half a billion dollars to the State School Fund for the next biennium to boost student outcomes, literacy rates and more. The fund is responsible for the bulk of district funding, and payroll makes up about 85% of school budgets. 

The latest PERS increases are the consequence of an uptick in post-pandemic hiring, public sector wages growing faster than anticipated, a pre-2003 investment formula that made employers liable for massive contributions and several years of underperforming investments, according to Kevin Olineck, director of the system. 

The latter is the largest reason for the latest increases, he said. PERS investments were 10% lower in 2022 and 2023, collectively, than the four-member, governor-appointed Oregon Investment Council had anticipated. 

“The Oregon Investment Council is very highly invested in private equities, and they did less than what the public equity markets did,” Olineck explained. Being heavily invested in private equities has brought mostly beneficial returns for PERS in the last 10 or 15 years, he added, but not in the last few years.  READ MORE: https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2024/11/13/oregon-school-districts-employees-face-670-million-increase-in-payments-to-public-pension-system/

OHCS invests $5 million to help youth experiencing homelessness in rural Oregon

SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) is investing $5 million to combat rural homelessness through the Youth Emergency Housing Assistance Program (YEHA). The $5 million will be disbursed to five different organizations in Coos, Klamath, Lincoln, Douglas, and Josephine Counties that help youth and their families who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless.

“We are committed to ensuring every young person in Oregon has a safe place to call home,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell. “By investing in real solutions to address youth homelessness, we aim to bridge the funding and service gaps that rural communities often face. This investment will help create sustainable pathways to housing stability and increase opportunities for our youth to thrive.”

The YEHA project team analyzed data from both Oregon’s Emergency Homelessness Response and the Department of Education to identify which communities had the highest rate of youth experiencing homelessness to ensure these funds make the biggest possible impact. The YEHA project team chose the Coos County Office of Homelessness Response, Integral Youth Services in Klamath County, the Lincoln County Housing Authority, the Phoenix School of Roseburg in Douglas County, and the Maslow Project in Josephine County to receive funding.

“This funding will empower us to expand our outreach, enhance our support services, and build sustainable solutions for the unique challenges faced by our Josephine County community,” said Maslow Project Founder and Executive Director Mary Ferrell. “It’s a vital step toward ensuring that youth and families in our county can access safe and stable housing. We know that when stabilized, youth are far more likely to finish high school, improve their long-term outcomes, and end the cycle of homelessness.”

YEHA aims to provide housing-focused services to school-age children and their families to enhance family stability and school success. The organizations in these counties will establish and promote intentional collaboration between schools and housing providers to extend a reliable family support network and optimize the funding’s impact. These resources will help cover expenses such as rent, utilities, work and educational support, moving costs, transportation, furniture, household goods, and more.

About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS)

OHCS is Oregon’s housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of low and moderate income. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs.

The Annual Willamette Valley Ornament Hunt Starts Friday November 15th

It’s time once again for one of the Willamette Valley’s most beloved traditions: the seventh annual Willamette Valley Ornament Hunt, taking place across the Willamette National Forest and Umpqua National Forest.

Between November 15 and Dec. 25, 2024, two hundred locally-crafted wooden ornaments will be hidden along two-dozen trails in both forests—where eagle-eyed hikers can seek them out and register to win this year’s grand prize, which includes a two-night getaway in the Willamette Valley. Here’s more information: https://www.willamettevalley.org/ornament

Crater Lake Gets Snow – North Entrance Road and Rim Drive are CLOSED for the season.

Crater Lake got its first big snowstorm of the year Wednesday. If you were planning a late fall trip to Oregon’s
Crater Lake National Park today, you’re out of luck. All roads at the park were closed Thursday morning after a winter
storm dumped snow on the park and “equipment challenges” meant employees couldn’t immediately clear them.

The North Entrance Road and East & West Rim Drives are now closed for the season a few The roads will not open again until mid to late June or July 2025. All other roads are open.

According to a post on the park’s website, all park roads were temporarily closed to travel “while the snowplow
operators work to repair equipment and clear the roads.” he park had gotten just under 15 inches of snow in about 24 hours, according to Tim Daldrup, a meterologist with the National Weather Service in Medford.

The snow was expected to continue, though substantially lighter, for the next several days. But, said Dalrup, another storm is predicted late Sunday into Monday that could bring a foot or more of new snow to the area. Crater Lake National Park did not respond to say when they anticipated re-opening park roads. In general, the park is open all year, and snow is common. https://www.nps.gov/crla/planyourvisit/conditions.htm

Free Fishing Days in Oregon Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving, Nov. 29-30

Make fishing part of your Thanksgiving weekend plans with friends and family. Everyone can fish, clam and crab for free in Oregon on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 29-30.

No fishing/shellfish licenses or tags (including a Combined Angling Tag, Columbia River Basin Endorsement or Two-Rod Validation) are required those two days. Both Oregon residents and nonresidents can fish for free.

All other fishing regulations apply including closures, bag limits and size restrictions. See the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations for rules and remember to check for any in-season regulation updates too, especially for salmon and steelhead fishing. Click on the zone where you want to fish to see regulation updates.

The Recreation Report is updated weekly and features the best bests for fishing for the upcoming week. Depending on water levels and conditions, fishing could be good for Chinook or coho salmon; again be sure to check regulations first because not all rivers are open. Trout will also be stocked the week before Thanksgiving at several popular lakes in the Willamette Valley.

For beginners, Easy Angling Oregon is a great guide to getting started fishing in Oregon, https://myodfw.com/articles/easy-angling-oregon-introduction. And if you live near Portland, Bend, Medford, Roseburg or in Lane County, there are lots of nearby options.

Prefer to crab or clam instead? MyODFW.com has all the information you need to get started clamming or crabbing. Remember to check ocean conditions and take safety precautions—always clam with a friend and never turn your back on the ocean.

Call the ODA Shellfish safety hotline at 1-800-448-2474 or check their Shellfish Closures page before you go clamming or crabbing. The Oregon Department of Agriculture regularly tests shellfish and closes areas when naturally occurring biotoxins get to levels that make crabs and clams unsafe to eat.

Currently, crabbing is open in bays, beaches, estuaries, tide pools, piers and jetties along the entire Oregon coast. Crabbing is closed in the ocean due to the annual closure from Oct. 16-Nov. 30 each year.

As of mid-November, razor clamming is closed from Cascade Head to the California border due to high levels of the marine biotoxin domoic acid, but closures may change by Thanksgiving Weekend so check before you go. (SOURCE)

Triple your impact: Pacific Power will match your contribution to Oregon Energy Fund 2-for-1

Pacific Power is making it simple to make a difference in communities by helping struggling neighbors stay warm this winter. For every dollar that you donate, Pacific Power will match your donation to the Oregon Energy Fund with $2 more.

Pacific Power customers who receive their bills by mail will find they include an Oregon Energy Fund contribution envelope in November. Customers who pay their bills electronically can send a check or enroll in the fixed donation program. To enroll in the fixed donation program, customers can call Pacific Power toll-free at 1-888-221-7070 or Donate to Energy Assistance (pacificpower.net).

This program allows customers to donate any dollar amount, starting at $1 per month, which is then incorporated into their monthly bill. Fixed donations will also be matched 2-for-1 by Pacific Power.

Donations may be tax-deductible and are forwarded directly to the Oregon Energy Fund, which verifies eligibility and allocates funds to those in need. All funds donated are used to assist families in need within the same county in which the donor resides.

“Pacific Power’s commitment to supporting household stability is bolstered by compassion, collaboration and innovation,” said Brian Allbritton, executive director of the Oregon Energy Fund.

“Studies have shown that more than a quarter of Oregonians struggle to pay their bills each year,” said Albritton. “From Oregon Energy Fund’s start in 1989, Pacific Power has been an important partner in bringing emergency bill payment assistance to thousands of vulnerable Oregonians, helping make them healthy and safe while keeping their lights on.”

Last year, donations from Pacific Power’s customers, employees and the company helped 2,995 individuals in need throughout Oregon, including 1,482 adults, 503 seniors, 464 people with disabilities and 1,010 children. This year, Pacific Power will match up to $144,000 in donations.

Customers who need bill assistance can speak with Pacific Power representatives at 1-888-221-7070 who can help with payment plans that work for their individual needs, while directing them to agencies that may be able to help. https://www.pacificpower.net/about/newsroom/news-releases/2024-Oregon-Energy-Fund.html#:~:text=PORTLAND%2C%20Ore.,Energy%20Fund%20with%20%242%20more.

Oregon begins rollout of new housing benefits for eligible OHP members with health conditions

SALEM, Ore. – Starting today, Oregon Health Plan (OHP) members with specific health conditions may qualify for new, first-in-the-nation benefits to keep their current housing and access other housing services.

The housing benefits include rent assistance for up to six months, utility set-up and payments for up to six months, home modifications and upgrades for health or safety reasons (e.g., grab bars, ramp installation, pest control), and rental navigation services. Unlike other state and local prevention services, eligible members can request these benefits ahead of receiving an eviction notice.

Not all OHP members will qualify for these new benefits. To qualify, OHP members must meet specific requirements, including at least one of the following health conditions: a complex physical or behavioral health condition; a developmental or intellectual disability; difficulty with self-care and daily activities; experience of abuse or neglect; be 65 years of age or older; be under the age of six; currently pregnant or gave birth in the past 12 months; or repeated use of emergency room or crisis services.

OHA Director Dr. Sejal Hathi, MD, MBA, said, “Oregon’s health inequities are inextricably linked to our state’s housing crisis. Individuals and families who become homeless face a significantly higher risk of mortality and higher rates of behavioral and physical health conditions – even as they report poorer access to care. These Medicaid benefits can help stop that cycle and, in a model for the rest of the country, make it possible for Oregonians to maintain their current housing, connect with providers and access additional resources that support their well-being.”

Oregon received permission from the federal government to test whether and how addressing health-related social needs improves health outcomes. While other states have launched similar benefits, Oregon is the first in the nation to roll out rent assistance as a statewide Medicaid benefit for eligible OHP members.

“Housing plays a pivotal role in our physical and mental wellbeing. And yet, so many of our neighbors are living paycheck to paycheck, where an unexpected issue can lead to a loss of income and loss of a home,” said Emma Sandoe, Medicaid Director at Oregon Health Authority. “These benefits are one more tool to keep Oregonians housed during short-term disruptions and prevent negative health outcomes of homelessness.”

Of renters across Oregon, 22% have extremely low income, with $30,560 being the average income limit for a four-person household. Adults living with housing insecurity, including threat of eviction, are 19% more likely to lack access to a primary care provider and 35% more likely to postpone preventative health care even if they have chronic health conditions. Evictions and loss of housing can lead to negative health outcomes including:

• Increasing an individual’s risk for physical and mental health conditions
• Making an individual’s existing health condition worse
• Creating barriers to accessing medical care, medications and food

“Housing is a critical driver of health outcomes, significantly impacting social mobility and economic opportunity,” said Oregon Housing and Community Services Executive Director, Andrea Bell. “Stable housing serves as a catalyst for expanding access to preventive care, while reducing the monumental costs associated with emergency care. This is what transformative, integrated care looks like.”

Starting this month, housing providers are contracted to begin connecting with eligible members and delivering these new benefits across the state. Housing benefit applications may take up to two weeks to be reviewed. If approved, additional time may be needed to provide the benefit. These turnaround timeframes will depend on the capacities of individual CCOs and housing service providers as well as the volume of housing applications received. OHA is working closely with CCOs to continue to expand the network over the next year.

Fostering healthy families and environments is one of the five pillars to achieving OHA’s strategic goal of eliminating health inequities in Oregon by 2030. The housing benefits are one of several new health-related social needs benefits Oregon is piloting to meet this goal. In March, the state launched climate benefits including air conditioners, air filters and other equipment to keep eligible members healthy amid extreme weather events. Nutrition benefits will be available for eligible OHP members starting in January 2025.

OHP members interested in receiving housing benefits can work with their health plan (coordinated care organization or Open Card), health care provider or a local OHP community partner to see if they qualify and apply.

OHP members should contact their coordinated care organization (CCO) to learn more. OHP Open Card members can call 1-888-834-4304 or email ORHRSN@acentra.com. If an OHP member is not sure which plan or CCO they are in, they can call the OHA Client Services Unit at 1-800-273-0557 or email Ask.OHP@odhsoha.oregon.gov.

For OHP members who are currently unhoused, resources may be available through 211. — For more information about these benefits, visit the OHP housing benefits web page.

Bureau of Land Management recreation managers are looking for enthusiastic volunteers to fill host positions at six unique locations for the 2025 summer recreation season.

Volunteer hosts play a critical role at BLM recreation sites. They are the primary, daily connection between public land users and BLM staff.  Hosts also assist BLM staff to open and close sites each day, manage campground and shelter reservations, answer visitor questions, encourage visitor rule adherence, and generally maintain the sites.

A paved RV pad is provided at each site for host volunteers. Sites have varying degrees of amenities from full electric, water, and sewer hook-ups to completely primitive sites with only public potable water access. The selected volunteer(s) must provide their own trailer, motorhome, RV, or tent set-up.

Each host will receive a modest daily stipend to off-set some living costs and incidental expenses. Hosts are expected to live on site during the region’s busiest recreation season, typically from April through September. (The start date for the selected host at Sharps Creek will likely be earlier in the year.)

For more information and to apply for these volunteer opportunities, please visit Volunteer.gov. If you have further questions, contact Kendra Barat at kbarat@blm.gov or (720) 591-68

Child Sexual Predator Eluded Capture in Idaho, Has Ties to Southern Oregon, He May Be Dressed as a Woman

– A fugitive with ties to the southern Oregon region is on-the-run after eluding capture Tuesday, October 22 in Idaho. Christian Bert Fischer, 42, is wanted in Florida for Traveling to Meet a Minor After Use of a Computer to Lure a Child.

Fischer is a white male, 5’10”, 200 lbs., has blonde hair and blue-colored eyes. He is also known to dress like a woman. Before heading to Idaho, Fischer was in the Portland area. This June and July, he was in Ashland, Lake of the Woods, and Wolf Creek.

U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) task forces throughout the country have joined the search, including the local Pacific Northwest Violent Offender Task Force (PNVOTF). If you have any information on Fischer’s whereabouts, contact the local USMS office at (541) 776-4277, the USMS Communication Center at 1-800-336-0102, or USMS Tips at www.usmarshals.gov/tips.

PNVOTF includes personnel from the U.S. Marshals, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, and Central Point Police Department. The task force specializes in locating and arresting fugitives wanted for offenses including, but not limited to, murder, assault, sex crimes, failure to register as a sex offender, firearm violations, and probation violations.

For more information here is the USMS Release:

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho – The Hernando County Crime Stoppers in Florida is offering up a $5,000 reward for information directly leading to the arrest of Christian Bert FISCHER, a fugitive convicted in Florida for Traveling to Meet a Minor After Use of a Computer to Lure a Child. Crime Stoppers must be contacted first in order to be eligible for the cash rewards of up to $5,000.00. For additional information and instructions for the reward, please visit the following Crime Stoppers link:

http://www.hernandocountycrimestoppers.com/sitemenu.aspx?P=wanteds&ID=449&Sort=Name&F=&W=.

Additional information about the U.S. Marshals Service can be found at http://www.usmarshals.gov.

Oregon Aging and People with Disabilities offers free help for Medicare Open Enrollment

(Salem) — Medicare Open Enrollment for the 2025 plan year begins Oct. 15 and remains open through Dec. 7, 2024. Medicare beneficiaries seeking to compare or change their existing Medicare plan can receive free help from the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS). 

During the Medicare Open Enrollment period, people with Medicare can make changes to their health plan or prescription drug plan, pick a Medicare Advantage plan or choose Original Medicare. The ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities’ (APD) Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) program is available to help Oregonians understand their Medicare options and benefits, provide enrollment guidance and help people detect and avoid Medicare scams. Additionally, there are some key changes coming to Medicare in 2025 that APD’s SHIBA program counselors can assist people in understanding including:

• The new Manufacturer Discount Program which addresses the coverage gap, also known as the “donut hole;” 
• The lower maximum to pay for covered drugs. The maximum amount for 2025 will be $2,000; 
• Coverage for weight loss drugs when doctors prescribe them for people who meet certain conditions; 
• Expanded coverage for family caregiver services through the Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) model; and
• Increased access to mental health services by allowing more providers to bill Medicare for services.

“Our APD SHIBA team is devoted to helping people prepare for open enrollment and understand changes,” said Jane-ellen Weidanz, who oversees SHIBA as APD Deputy Director of Policy. 

Oregonians who need help navigating Medicare open enrollment are encouraged to call SHIBA at 800-722-4134 (toll-free) or learn more by visiting the SHIBA website at SHIBA.Oregon.gov. The 2025 Oregon Guide to Medicare Insurance Plans will be available on the SHIBA website in the coming days and will be translated to multiple languages. 

SHIBA certified counselors can also help people report scams to Medicare and educate people on how to avoid Medicare scams or fraud. According to the Senior Medicare Patrol, common scams include promising free durable medical equipment, such as knee braces and catheters, or offers of free genetic testing. The ultimate goal for the scammer is to get the beneficiary’s Medicare number to commit Medicare billing fraud. “SHIBA counselors are committed to ensuring Oregonians have the information they need to avoid becoming victims of fraud and report scams or suspected Medicare fraud,” said APD Director Dr. Nakeshia Knight-Coyle.

Help from SHIBA is available over the phone and through virtual and in-person appointments. Because high call volume during Open Enrollment may result in longer than usual wait times, Oregonians are also encouraged to access free resources on the SHIBA website such as Medicare frequently asked questions, an agent locator tool, a list of free virtual and in-person Medicare presentations and videos to help people understand their Medicare options. People who need Medicare help in a language other than English, including sign language, can call 833-685-0841 or send an email to odhs.languageaccess@odhsoha.oregon.gov; after placing a request, a translator will reach out in the requestor’s preferred language to provide assistance in communicating with SHIBA.

About the Oregon Department of Human Services – The mission of the Oregon Department of Human Services is to help Oregonians in their own communities achieve wellbeing and independence through opportunities that protect, empower, respect choice and preserve dignity.

About the Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance program – The Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) program is part of the ODHS Office of Aging and People with Disabilities. It is a statewide network of certified counselors volunteering in their community to help all Oregonians make educated Medicare decisions. SHIBA offers free, objective, confidential and local one-on-one health insurance counseling and assistance to people with Medicare and their families. 

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