The latest news stories across the state of Oregon from the digital home of the Oregon coastal cities, OregonBeachMagazine.com
Monday, October 9, 2023
Oregon Beach Weather
SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY & Hazardous Seas WARNING ISSUED: 2:44 AM OCT. 9, 2023 – NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE
...SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY NOW IN EFFECT UNTIL 5 AM PDT TUESDAY... ...HAZARDOUS SEAS WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 2 PM PDT THISAFTERNOON... ...GALE WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 5 AM TO 5 PM PDT TUESDAY... * WHAT...For the Hazardous Seas Warning, winds 20 to 30 kt with gusts to 35 kt and very steep wind-driven seas 9 to 10 feet. For the Small Craft Advisory, steep wind-driven seas 6 to 8 feet. Winds will lower late Monday morning and seas will transition to a steep west swell 6 to 8 ft at 12 seconds. Then, a second front early Tuesday morning will bring gales 25 to 35kt with gusts to 45 kt and very steep mixed seas 10 to 14 feet. * WHERE...The Hazardous Seas Warning is for all areas beyond 4 NM and the Small Craft Advisory is for all remaining areas. The Gale Warning will be for all areas as well. * WHEN...For the Hazardous Seas Warning, until 2 PM PDT this afternoon. For the Small Craft Advisory, until 5 AM PDT Tuesday. For the Gale Warning, from 5 AM to 5 PM PDT Tuesday. * IMPACTS...Strong winds and very steep seas could capsize or damage vessels. Low visibility conditions are expected. * View the hazard area in detail at https://go.usa.gov/x6hks
Art Exhibit Celebrates Clatsop Community College and Pacific Northwest College Collaboration
The Royal Nebeker Art Gallery at Clatsop Community College, partnering with Center for Contemporary Art & Culture at Pacific Northwest College of Art, is thrilled to announce a fall exhibition titled Mind and Hand: PNCA Community Showcase. The public is invited to the show’s Reception on Thursday, October 19 starting at 6pm for refreshments and celebration.
This exhibition – displaying over 30 pieces from PNCA students, faculty, staff and alumni – is brought to CCC’s campus gallery as a special collaboration to celebrate the PNCA + Clatsop Community College Transfer Agreement where students from Clatsop Community College will now have easier access to a BFA from Pacific Northwest College of Art.
In this agreement, Clatsop students who transfer to PNCA with 60 semester credits/90 quarter credits automatically receive a $5,000 PNCA Transfer Scholarship in addition to a merit based scholarship, which starts at $22,000. Both of these scholarships are renewable annually and this pathway allows these students to earn a BFA degree in just two years.
“PNCA has been welcoming talented Clatsop transfer students for many years, so I’m thrilled to have an official pathway that guarantees that courses will transfer for qualified students and will offer them an opportunity for a BFA at a lower cost,” said PNCA Dean of Admissions Anna Miltenberger. “Empowering students to reimagine what art and design can do in the world is part of our mission. We look forward to continuing a partnership that will inevitably support the thriving art and design community in Portland and beyond.”
Mind and Hand: PNCA Community Showcase stands as an example of the creative inquiries and artistic prowess that all artists connected to PNCA exhibit within the school and beyond. Ranging from painting to design, sculpture to performance and things in-between, this exhibition highlights the validity and importance of creative inquiries and education in the arts. May we all be ever-learning from each other and feel nurtured to pursue a life of creative expression!
The CCC Royal Nebeker Gallery is dedicated to enriching the cultural life of the campus, the local community, and the North Coast region. Please join CCC in its mission to sustain and promote contemporary art and visual culture through professional exhibitions and programming.
The CCC Royal Nebeker Gallery, located at 1799 Lexington Avenue in Astoria, is ADA accessible. The gallery hours are from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and on weekends and holidays by appointment only. For more information, please contact Kristin Shauck by phone (503-338-2472) or e-mail kshauck@clatsopcc.edu.
About CCAC and PNCA:
The Center for Contemporary Art & Culture is a platform for cultural production including exhibition, lecture, performance, and publication. Housed within Pacific Northwest College of Art (PNCA), the Center throws open its doors to the greater public to foster conversation and community.
Pacific Northwest College of Art is the leading professional arts and design school in the Northwest; we are the heartbeat of learning and experimentation in Portland’s vibrant cultural ecosystem. We spark curiosity and sharpen skills so students can build creative careers anchored in innovation, justice and civic imagination. (SOURCE)
Car Wreck and Mysterious Fire Raise Concerns in Yachats
This week in Yachats, Oregon, two incidents occurred that raised concerns for public safety. In the first incident, a Roseburg man was arrested after crashing his car while under the influence of intoxicants and fleeing the scene. The second incident involved a massive fire that destroyed the Ziggurat house, with the cause remaining unknown despite an investigation by state fire officials.
A Roseburg man, Derick L. Weinhold, was arrested after crashing his car in Yachats. Oregon State Police charged him with driving under the influence of intoxicants and reckless driving. Weinhold was found a few blocks away from the wreck, showing signs of impairment. He was taken to a hospital for evaluation.
A fire engulfed the Ziggurat house near Tenmile Creek, destroying the top two floors of the multi-million-dollar home. State fire officials conducted an investigation but could not determine the cause of the fire. The blaze started on a fourth-floor deck, but the source remains unknown. (SOURCE)
Weekly Safety Report: Vehicle Crash and Wanted Suspect Arrested in Lincoln City
This week in Lincoln City, Oregon, there were two notable incidents. The first incident involved a vehicle crashing into other vehicles at NW 22nd Street and Highway 101, resulting in a possible medical emergency. The second incident involved the arrest of a wanted suspect, Ryan Downey, who was apprehended by the Lincoln City Police Department’s K9 Nato. Downey had an active felony warrant for burglary and other charges. These incidents highlight the proactive efforts of law enforcement in maintaining public safety in the area. (SOURCE)
Port Orford, Reedsport, and Bandon Among Recipients of “Excellence on Main” Awards
SALEM, Oregon – Oregon Main Street announced its 2023 “Excellence on Main” award winners on October 4 during the Opening Session of Main Street conference in Independence. Created in 2010, the annual Excellence on Main awards honor outstanding accomplishments, activities, and people making a difference in historic downtowns and traditional commercial neighborhoods across the state. A total of 9 projects, activities, and people were recognized – 3 of those based on nominations submitted by Port Orford Main Street, Reedsport Main Street, and the Greater Bandon Association.
- Economic Vitality: Mr. Ed’s, Port Orford
The Economic Vitality Award is given for efforts that substantially enhance the local economy including job creation and retention, sales growth, increased assets, and influx of new dollars from outside the area. In a small community, the impact of one person, one business, can have a ripple effect on the local economy. Eddy Houck’s dream of owning a space for music, food, and camaraderie in Port Orford has bloomed into the thriving hub, Mr. Ed’s. Growing from its humble beginnings as Port Orford’s first coffee shop in 1984 with community support, this family-friendly pub hosts musicians, gatherings, and more putting Port Orford on the map as a cherished coastal destination. “Mr. Ed’s represents an epicenter of positive change in this town. It’s a place that provides a sense of community through the common love of music and old-school conversation, mixed with some good food and good spirits.”— Chad Steele, professional house painter and Swerv band member. A video recognizing Mr. Ed’s and Eddy Houck’s award can be found here: Award Video.
- Special Project: Reedsport Main Street’s Open House, Reedsport
The Special Project award is given to an activity or program that impactfully addresses specific goals or priorities of the local main street organization. The Reedsport Main Street Program was the recipient of the 2023 Special Project Award for their efforts in addressing the perennial question main street programs are asked “Is that something Main Street does?” Seeking to reshape perceptions, the program hosted an exceptional Open House. Featuring a themed progressive dinner across local businesses, attendees relished diverse presentations on Main Street’s history, accomplishments, and upcoming ventures. A punch-card system guided guests, culminating in a brewery visit. Beyond enlightenment, attendees connected with entrepreneurs and discovered downtown’s offerings. Coverage of the event ignited curiosity, amplifying local involvement, volunteerism, and social media reach. The ripple effect of Reedsport Main Street’s event underscores the potential for meaningful community enrichment. A video recognizing the Reedsport Main Street for this award can be found here: Award Video.
- Executive Director of the Year Award: Harv Schubothe, Bandon
Harv Schubothe, the driving force behind Greater Bandon Association (GBA), has earned the prestigious Executive Director of the Year award for his exceptional impact on downtown and main street revitalization. Since GBA’s inception in 2010, Harv’s visionary leadership led him from co-coordinator to executive director, cementing his commitment to community partnerships and growth. Harv’s dedication to continuous improvement resulted in the Ford Family Foundation’s Community Fellow selection in 2014, paving the way for GBA’s evolution into a catalytic community builder. His strategic prowess culminated in a successful three-year plan, Main Street Refresh, and securing National and State Accredited Main Street status in 2023. Harv’s mentorship extends beyond GBA, shaping professionals and fostering collaboration. With a focus on outcomes over acclaim, Harv Schubothe exemplifies a leadership style that propels Greater Bandon Association’s accomplishments and unity. “I believe this award recognizes rather than my own achievements those of the Greater Bandon Association as it met the performance standards of the National Main Street Center in becoming one of the few accredited Main Street organizations in Oregon,” stated Harv Schubothe, Executive Director, Greater Bandon Association. “Those recognized for this award before me were catalytic community builders in their towns and I am honored to be included in their company.” A video recognizing Harv’s achievement can be found here: Award Video.
The wide range of Oregon Main Street’s Excellence on Main awards is reflective of the comprehensive Main Street Approach™ to downtown revitalization developed by the National Main Street Center. This model is used by the communities participating in the three-tier Main Street Track of Oregon Main Street Network.
“We are thrilled to recognize the exceptional efforts and accomplishments of these award winners. Their dedication to enhancing local economies, reshaping perceptions, and fostering community unity perfectly embodies the spirit of the Main Street Approach™, stated Sheri Stuart, State Coordinator, Oregon Main Street. “These projects showcase the transformative power of collaborative initiatives, and we commend Mr. Ed’s, Reedsport Main Street, and Harv Schubothe for their outstanding contributions to Oregon’s historic downtowns and commercial neighborhoods.”
Oregon Main Street strengthens community networks, bolsters local economies, generates tax revenues, and fosters social connections across the state. OMS leads a network of local Main Streets that oversee a wide range of programmatic efforts to build community, support local businesses, and create an attractive and vibrant environment for workers, visitors, and residents. The Oregon Main Street network generates significant value for local communities and for the State of Oregon overall. Learn more about the impact of the Oregon Main Street program by visiting www.oregonmainstreet.org.
Astoria hospital, nurses reach tentative agreement for Columbia Memorial contract
A day after nurses at Columbia Memorial Hospital in Astoria announced the union had voted to authorize a strike, the Oregon Nurses Association and the hospital said on Thursday they had reached a tentative agreement.
ONA, which represents the more than 130 nurses who work at the hospital, said they have been bargaining for more staffing, sustainable scheduling, retirement security and higher wages to attract and keep critical health professionals. According to ONA, they’ve held 12 negotiation sessions with hospital executives, some with a mediator.
An ONA spokesperson said the agreement will help the hospital recruit and retain needed frontline nurses.
“Nurses on the North Coast have always put our patients and our community first,” the ONA spokesperson said. “We’re grateful our community stood shoulder-to-shoulder with us during negotiations to get this deal done so we can focus on giving our patients and their families the care they deserve.”
In a statement released by Columbia Memorial Hospital, the hospital said they were looking forward to continue supporting their medical staff and providing high-quality, compassionate care for their patients and communities.
“It has been our goal for many years to be a best place to work and provide the highest quality care for our patients,” said Nicole Williams, hospital COO. “This new agreement is a reflection of these priorities.”
The tentative agreement will need to be approved by both the union members and the hospital board of trustees.
On Wednesday when announcing the strike authorization vote, nurse and local ONA executive Lauren Janesh said their members were bargaining for a better work-life balance for nurse mental health, recruiting and staff retention.
“Nurses willingly sacrificed our health, safety and sanity for our patients and the hospital during the pandemic,” Janesh said. “Now we’re running on fumes. We need sustainable schedules to retain and recruit the experienced nurses our community needs. The workplace is evolving and we need creative solutions to make nursing at Columbia Memorial desirable.”
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department Accepting Public Comments on Updates to Marine Plant and Seaweed Collection Rules on the Ocean Shore
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) proposes updates to rules for collection of marine plants and macroalgae in marine reserves and marine protected areas (OAR 736-021-0090).
Updates to Oregon’s Territorial Sea Plan earlier this year changed regulations and management practices in certain protected areas. The department’s proposed rule changes will allow for collection of marine plants and macroalgae in marine protected areas if allowed under management plans for the area.
(Oregon’s territorial sea is a 3 mile wide strip of ocean under state jurisdiction that reaches from the shoreline out to sea. This area and the resources within it are managed by state and federal agencies in trust for the public.)
Proposed rules also eliminate outdated requirements for enrolled members of federally recognized tribes in Oregon to seek a permit before collecting marine plants along the ocean shore.
OPRD is accepting comments until 5 p.m. Nov. 3, 2023, and they can be made online, at a public hearing, in writing or via email.
- Online: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/Pages/PRP-rulemaking.aspx
- Virtual Public hearing: Thursday, October 26, 2 PM: Registration required at https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_RVGhrw-KR9eYDdaTobepew
- In writing: Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, attn.: Katie Gauthier, 725 Summer St NE, Suite C, Salem OR 97301
- Email: D.publiccomment@oprd.oregon.gov“>OPRD.publiccomment@oprd.oregon.gov.
After reviewing public comments, agency staff plan to present a final amended rule for consideration by the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission at its November 2023 business meeting.
The full text of the amendment to Oregon Administrative Rule 736-021-0090 is available online at https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/Pages/PRP-rulemaking.aspx.
Governor Kotek Ordered Public Flags Flown Half-Staff Over The Weekend In Honor Of Eugene Airman Killed In Colorado Humvee Crash
Governor Kotek on Friday ordered flags at Oregon public institutions to be flown at half-staff over the weekend in honor and remembrance of Air Force Airman Trinity Reinhart, a Eugene native who was killed in a Colorado Humvee crash last month.
Kotek said she took the action pursuant of her authority under the United States flag code and that the flag should be flown at half-staff until sunset on Saturday, the day of Airman Reinhart’s memorial.
“I send my condolences to Airman Reinhart’s family in the wake of this tragedy and extend my deepest gratitude that she chose to devote her life, though far too brief, to serving others,” Kotek said.
Airman Reinhart was killed in the Sept. 16 crash near Grover, Colorado, about two months before her 20th birthday. A second airman was not seriously injured.
Airman Reinhart was originally from Eugene and a graduate of the Willamette Leadership Academy. She had been assigned since May 19 to the 90th Missile Security Forces Squadron, based at F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne, Wyoming.
The Air Force said it initiated an Interim Safety Board immediately after the mishap to gather the facts surrounding the incident. A Safety Investigation Board will be convened to determine the cause of the crash and to recommend measures necessary to prevent future mishaps.
Oregon DMV Knowledge Test Now Available Online Without Appointment
Oregon residents can now take the drivers knowledge test online, with no appointment required and at the same cost as an in-person exam.
DMV customers will only need a computer with a webcam and internet access. The tests will be monitored to discourage cheating.
Additionally, juveniles taking the test must be supervised by an adult over the age of 21.
Lauren Mulligan is with the Oregon DMV. She said online testing is meant to help rural customers and people without reliable transportation.
“We’re hoping that the new service will help reduce barriers for customers that might not be able to make it into a DMV office to take their test multiple times,” said Mulligan.
Mulligan said the change is part of an effort to modernize the Oregon DMV and reduce wait times. “DMV in the last few years has gone from three online services to now more than 20,” she said. “And that’ll help make your visit to a DMV office more productive.”
The Class C (regular driver) knowledge test and motorcycle endorsement test are available online in English and Spanish. DMV plans to add additional languages in the future to serve even more customers.
“Testing online allows customers the chance to know that they have passed their exam before coming into the DMV office. This can save some people multiple trips into the office if they don’t pass the first time,” said Joyce. “You don’t need an appointment to come in once you pass online, but do come prepared with all the documentation you need to make sure it is a smooth visit.”
After customers pass their test online, they will need to come into the office with their identity documents, and pass a vision screening. Then they will be issued a permit or be eligible to schedule a drive test, depending on their age.
DMV partnered with an expert in the online testing industry, Intellectual Technologies Inc., to develop the new service. Their online testing platform is already used in other states. Proven identity verification and anti-cheating features protect the safety purpose of the knowledge test. Learn more about online testing at DMV2U.oregon.gov.
Jackson County Task Force Serves Search Warrants at Two Neighboring Black-Market Cannabis Grows, Discover Clandestine Laboratory, 1,800 lbs. Processed Illegal Marijuana; Code Enforcement Fines Nearly $900,000
Video Available for Download: https://vimeo.com/872004037?share=copy
IMET Cases 23-15461, 23-15560
GOLD HILL, Ore. – Illegal Marijuana Enforcement Team (IMET) detectives served a search warrant at neighboring black-market cannabis grows yesterday. These properties were both located in the 2000 block of Rogue River Highway in rural Gold Hill. While serving the warrant, detectives discovered a clandestine Butane Honey Oil (BHO) laboratory. Jackson County Code Enforcement issued a citation totaling $887,710 for the unauthorized hydrocarbon extraction facility including the use of butane gas, and failure to obtain land use approval for marijuana production. IMET served the search warrant after receiving tips that the irrigation canal water in the local area was drying up.
Overall, investigators seized 1,221 illegal marijuana plants, 1,851 lbs. of processed cannabis, 12 BHO jars, and $17,900 cash. There was no licensing for any type of cannabis growing, handling, or processing at either of the locations. Four suspects were on the property when the warrant was served and charges will be filed with the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office. Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) and Medford Police Department (MPD) assisted IMET with the warrant service.
Oregon Water Resources Department District 13 Watermasters will issue three separate Notices of Violation (NOV) to the responsible party for three separate well locations. Despite being a paying patron of the Gold Hill Irrigation District and with the canal running through the properties, it was observed that both grow operations were not diverting water from the irrigation district source water during the time of the Watermaster’s investigation. According to Oregon Water Law it is unpermitted to use domestic well water for a commercial grow operation or to water beyond 1/2 acre. Water violations of this kind are subject to both civil and criminal penalties. The Watermaster’s office received several anonymous calls in early September about the tenants on the properties taking more water from the canal than allowed, drying up the allotted source.
While regulatory agencies investigate permitted cannabis operations, IMET is focusing on the black-market marijuana trade in the Rogue Valley. IMET is a multi-agency task force funded by a grant from the Oregon Criminal Justice Commission. The task force includes personnel from JCSO, MPD, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Jackson County District Attorney’s office.
Investigations are open and ongoing with detectives working additional leads. No further information is currently available for release.
FBI Portland Seizes 25 guns, Nearly Nine Kilos of Suspected Cocaine and Makes Five Arrests in Multi-State Takedown
PORTLAND, OREGON – Five people were arrested on Wednesday in a large-scale drug and gun bust throughout three states.
During the operation – which involved over 150 officers, agents and personnel from federal, state and local agencies – law enforcement seized nearly nine kilos of cocaine, 25 firearms (11 from one location), nearly $50,000 in cash and thousands of suspected fentanyl pills.
“The amount of suspected fentanyl alone that we seized in this operation will make a difference in our communities. 25 guns now off the streets, kilos of drugs out of circulation, that’s an impact,” said Kieran L. Ramsey, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Portland Field Office. “In a coordinated effort across three states the FBI and our partners, worked seamlessly to cut into the capabilities of these criminal enterprises and we are working hard to put the most violent offenders and facilitators behind bars for as long as we possibly can.”
Five people were arrested in the Portland metro area on a complaint of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Additional charges could follow.
A complaint is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Portland Field Office and the Portland Police Bureau conducted the operation with the assistance of the FBI Seattle, FBI Los Angeles, HSI, IRS, Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Gresham Police Department, Vancouver Police Department, Oregon State Police, Washington State Department of Corrections, Port of Portland, Los Angeles Police Department, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the United States Marshals Service.
Governor Kotek Visits Klamath and Lake Counties on Her “One Oregon Listening Tour”
Governor Tina Kotek visited Klamath and Lake counties this week as part of her One Oregon Listening Tour.
On Wednesday, the governor toured Lake County, stopping to meet with local leadership throughout the community.
Kotek said she started off in Christmas Valley to meet with county commissioners and discuss some of the proposals to add solar facilities in the area.
Thursday, Kotek visited Lake Health District to discuss behavioral health and how health districts support the community.
Governor Tina Kotek is committed to visiting every county in Oregon in her first year in office and building strong, working partnerships across our state. These efforts will focus on housing, mental health and addiction care, and education.
You can suggest a stop here: https://www.oregon.gov/gov/pages/one-oregon-listening-tour.aspx
Update on the Rollout of Paid Leave Oregon
SALEM – The latest data for Paid Leave Oregon is on the Oregon Employment Department’s dashboard. The data, through Oct. 2, shows more than 10,000 applications have been approved since Aug. 14.
Applications have increased significantly in recent weeks. About 20,400 benefits applications have been received since Aug. 14.
So far, almost $15 million in benefits have been paid. Benefit payments started going out to Oregon workers with approved claims on Sept. 13.
Paid Leave Oregon Director Karen Humelbaugh said people can speed up their claims by:
- Informing their employer about their leave before they apply
- Using the What You Need to Apply for Benefits Checklist and making sure they upload the correct documents for their type of leave
- Checking their Frances Online account regularly for action notices and messages
- Making sure to put the employer’s name on their claim as it appears on their W2 or paystub
Claims that have incorrect information or where the employer wasn’t notified may be delayed.
Paid Leave Oregon sped up its claim processing time in recent weeks, with a 162% increase since the program started. Staff are working hard to get through claims, but with any new program, there is a learning curve as well as programmatic adjustments.
“This is the first program of its kind in Oregon, and that means there will be bumps along the way,” Humelbaugh said. “However, we are working hard to make sure staff are trained and able to provide a good customer service experience.”
Paid Leave Oregon covers paid family leave, medical leave, and safe leave for working Oregonians. Employees apply through Frances Online.
Detailed information for employees, including eligibility requirements, tutorial videos, a benefits calculator, and much more, is on the Paid Leave website at paidleave.oregon.gov.
### The Oregon Employment Department (OED) is an equal opportunity agency. Everyone has a right to use OED programs and services. OED provides free help. Some examples are sign language and spoken language interpreters, written materials in other languages, braille, large print, audio and other formats. If you need help, please call 971-673-6400. TTY users call 711. You can also ask for help at OED_Communications@employ.oregon.gov.
October Events Raise Awareness About Earthquake Preparedness
Oregon is home to several fault lines that cause dozens of earthquakes every year. The most known earthquake threat is the Cascadia Subduction Zone, a 700-mile fault located off the Pacific coast that puts Oregon at risk for a 9.0+ magnitude earthquake.
A quake of that size could cause five to seven minutes of shaking, followed by a tsunami that would devastate coastal areas. October features several events reminding Oregonians to prepare and protect themselves before the ground starts shaking.
Wireless Emergency Alerts
“One of the most important steps people can take is to enable Wireless Emergency Alerts, or WEA, on their cell phones,” said Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) Director Erin McMahon. “WEA are short emergency messages sent to your phone to warn of an impending natural or human-made disaster, like an earthquake. WEA messages can provide immediate, life-saving information.”
ShakeAlert Earthquake Early Warning Notifications
People in Oregon, Washington and California who’ve opted into WEA automatically receive ShakeAlert earthquake early warning notifications for earthquakes in their area with a magnitude of 4.5 or greater, which can offer critical seconds of warning to seek cover from falling objects and brace themselves. ShakeAlert uses science and technology to detect significant earthquakes quickly and sends an alert to people on their cell phones. The alert makes a distinctive sound and displays a text message reading, “Earthquake detected! Drop, cover, hold on. Protect yourself.” This message is also available in Spanish for phones set to receive alerts in that language. Some cell phones with text-to-voice capability may read out the message text.
Great Oregon ShakeOut
An effective and no-cost way for individuals and families to practice earthquake safety is to register for The Great Oregon ShakeOut, a self-led earthquake drill taking place at 10:19 a.m. on Oct. 19. Nearly half a million Oregonians have already registered, pledging to Drop, Cover and Hold On for at least 60 seconds as if a major earthquake was occurring at that moment.
“Knowing what to do when the earth starts shaking helps people reduce their risk and better protect themselves to prepare for earthquakes,” said Director McMahon. “Most emergency management experts and official preparedness organizations agree that Drop, Cover and Hold On is the appropriate action to reduce the chance of injury from falling objects and flying debris during earthquakes. When people practice these simple steps, it becomes a routine that allows instincts to kick in when shaking starts.”
When the ground starts to shake, or you receive an earthquake alert on a cell phone:
- Drop immediately onto hands and knees. This position protects you from being knocked down and allows you to stay low and crawl to a nearby shelter. If you use a wheelchair or walker, lock your wheels.
- Cover your head and neck with one arm and hand. If a sturdy table or desk is nearby, crawl underneath it for shelter. If there is no nearby shelter, crawl next to an interior wall away from windows. Remain on your knees and bend over to protect vital organs.
- Hold On until the shaking stops. If under a shelter, hold onto it with one hand and be ready to move with the shelter if it shifts. If there is no shelter, hold onto your head and neck with both arms and hands.
If you’re near the ocean and feel a large earthquake, Drop, Cover and Hold On until the shaking stops. Then walk inland and up to high ground. Do not wait for an official warning, as a tsunami could come ashore in a few minutes. Learn more about earthquake preparedness on OEM’s website.
ORAlert and Be 2 Weeks Ready
OEM also encourages people in Oregon to sign up for local emergency alerts from their county or tribe at ORAlert.gov; be informed and knowledgeable about the hazards where they live; and have an emergency plan and enough food, water and supplies to survive for at least two weeks following any disaster. The agency’s Be 2 Weeks Ready program offers several resources in multiple languages to help people prepare. Learn more at oregon.gov/oem.
Oregon State Parks ready for Oct. 14, 2023, annular solar eclipse
Oregon State Parks offers prime viewing spots for the Oct. 14, 2023, annular solar eclipse. Visitors to parks within the path of annularity will watch the moon partially cover the sun, which creates a ‘ring of fire’ because the moon appears slightly smaller as it passes.
“Our park staff are ready to help visitors safely view this phenomenon,” said JR Collier, deputy of Statewide Operations.
He added that a limited number of free eclipse glasses will be available at Oregon State Parks on the day of the event.
He also emphasizes that safety is crucial while observing an eclipse.
Use ISO 12312-2 certified solar filters, avoid damaged filters, and consider projection methods. The eclipse glasses from the 2017 event are expired and shouldn’t be used.
Travelers coming to Oregon should prepare for potential traffic congestion, check local weather conditions, and pack essentials, including water, food, sunscreen, and bug spray.
Whether you’re an experienced eclipse enthusiast or a first-time observer, prioritize safety, and plan your trip to witness the ‘ring of fire’ against Oregon’s breathtaking landscapes and clear skies.
For more information and updates about viewing the eclipse from an Oregon state park, please visit https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=v.feature-article&articleId=327.
Missing Yachats Man’s Vehicle Found in North Lane County
On 08/25/2023, Dustin Steyding was reported missing to the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office after he left work on 07/22/2023 and hadn’t been located since. Dustin was living and working in the Yachats area.
Dustin was reported to be in good physical condition, having previously worked as a hot shot firefighter in New Mexico. Dustin is very experienced in the woods and commonly goes out for hikes to stay in shape. Without means to locate Dustin, Deputies entered Dustin as a missing person in a national database.
On 09/04/2023, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office received a call from Dustin’s family after they located his vehicle on Keller Creek Rd, just outside of Lincoln County in Lane County. Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Deputies contacted the vehicle and determined it had been at the location for some time. Deputies were unable to determine Dustin’s direction of travel from the vehicle.
The vehicle having been located in Lane County, Lincoln County Deputies contacted the Lane County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Team and arranged for their response the next day to started searching the area. After two days of searching, no clues to Dustin’s have been found.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Dustin Steyding should contact the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office at 541-265-0777 and reference case number 23S-07321.
83-year-old Clarence Edward Pitts walked away from his home in Bandon on Tuesday, January 31 at around 1:00 p.m. Pitts is described as:
- 6′ 00″
- 150 lbs
- Gray hair
- Brown eyes
- Last seen wearing an orange beanie, plaid jacket, tan pants and white shoes
- May have a walking cane
- Has dementia and PTSD
Pitts may be in a vehicle that was also found to be missing from the home:
- 1999 Toyota Van
- White
- Oregon license plate: WYN 788
If you see Clarence or have any information pertaining to where he may be, please call the Coos County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center at 541-396-2106 or the Bandon Police Department at 541-347-3189.
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