Oregon Beach News, Wednesday 10/30 — Razor Clam Harvest Closure Cascade Head to California Border, Recreational Boaters Invited to Attend Marine Board Meet and Greet in Newport Today & 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

Wednesday, October 30, 2024

Oregon Beach Weather

Small Craft Advisory Issued: 2:09 AM Oct. 30, 2024 – National Weather Service

...GALE WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 2 PM PDT THIS AFTERNOON...
...SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 2 PM THIS AFTERNOON TO 5 PM PDT FRIDAY...

* WHAT...For the Gale Warning, south winds 25 to 35 kt with gusts up to 50 kt and seas 8 to 11 ft at 10 seconds expected. For the Small Craft Advisory, southwest winds 10 to 20 kt with
gusts up to 30 kt and seas 17 to 22 ft at 15 seconds expected.

* WHERE..All areas.

* WHEN...For the Gale Warning, from 5 AM to 2 PM PDT Wednesday. For the Small Craft Advisory, from 2 PM Wednesday to 5 PM PDT Friday.

* 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

Seasonal Climate Forecast October – December 2024

https://www.oregon.gov/oda/programs/naturalresources/documents/weather/dlongrange.pdf

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

Recreational Boaters Invited to Attend Marine Board Meet and Greet in Newport Today

The Oregon State Marine Board invites recreational boaters and others interested in the agency’s work, to gather and engage with staff at an Open House on October 30, from 5 pm to 7 pm. The agency is hosting an Open House to better understand the needs of boaters in Lincoln County and surrounding areas. The Open House is being held at the Hatfield Marine Science Center, Glady’s Valley Marine Studies Building, Room 164, 2030 SE Marine Science Drive in Newport.

The Open House is intended to build relationships with local recreational boaters and hear perspectives on how the agency can improve operations to meet future needs. Staff will be available to answer questions about boating safety, agency policies, plans, regulatory considerations, grants, boating access, revenues and expenditures, safety education, titling and registration, outfitter guides, and the agency’s environmental programs.

Learn more about other Open House locations and the proposed Outfitter Guide legislative concept.

Florence Faced Attempted Fraud

The City of Florence recently faced an attempted fraud when an unknown individual impersonated a valid city vendor to redirect a payment into a fraudulent account. Upon discovery, the City swiftly intervened, working with local law enforcement to recover the funds. No financial losses occurred, and the City has since implemented new vendor verification policies to prevent similar incidents in the future.

While the investigation is ongoing, officials are not releasing further details. However, they emphasize the importance of public awareness around ACH fraud, encouraging practices like verifying payment requests through a second channel, regularly reviewing account statements, and educating employees on phishing attempts.

The City is committed to protecting public funds and enhancing its security measures. For tips on preventing cyber fraud, visit the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov or contact local law enforcement at 541-997-3515.

Florence Woman Arrested for Mistreatment of In-Care Elder

The Florence Police Department has confirmed a report that a local woman was arrested for mistreatment of an elderly person recently and that case is now in Lane County Circuit Court. 

“On October 16th Adult Protective Services contacted the Florence Police to report a case of possible elder abuse by a care worker in the victim’s home,” according to a release by FPD. “Officers responded to the residence and made contact with the victim. After an investigation the care giver was placed under arrest and transported to Lane County Adult Corrections.” 

The woman, Kari Lynn Kasten, 59, of Florence was was arrested for Criminal Mistreatment I, Assault 4 and Harassment.

When asked, Police Chief John Pitcher confirmed that Kasten is not an employee of the Department of Human Services.  

According to a filing by Lane County Distract Attorney’s Office, Kasten is charged with Criminal Mistreatment in the First Degree, a Class C felony. According to the filing, Kasten “having assumed the care, custody and responsibility for [victim], an elderly person, did unlawfully and knowingly cause physical injury.”  As of Wednesday, Oct. 23, County jail records did not show Kasten to be in custody.  (SOURCE)

Tillamook High School Football Game on Friday Ends at Halftime due to Allegations by Visiting Team of Racial Slurs and Unsportsmanlike Conduct

Statement from Tillamook School District #9 regarding Tillamook High School home football game Friday, October 25, 2024 against Milwuakie High School:

Last night (Oct. 25), a variety football game ended prematurely (at halftime) due to allegations of unsportsmanlike conduct and the use of racial epithets. While some of the details surrounding the nature of the event, and the involvement of athletes, coaches and officials are still unclear, we are committed to launching an investigation to resolve this matter.

These allegations, if true at any level, would mark a deviation from the standards we seek to uphold and are inconsistent with our values as an organization. Tillamook School District has a proud tradition of competing athletically and is committed to adhering to all OSAA guidelines that promote positive student-athlete experiences. We look forward to cooperating with OSAA on any investigation or efforts taken to resolve this matter and promote sportsmanship at athletic events.
~ Matt Ellis, Superintendent

SOURCE: https://www.tillamookcountypioneer.net/tillamook-high-school-football-game-friday-oct-25th-ends-at-halftime-allegations-by-visiting-team-of-racial-slurs-unsportsmanlike-conduct/

Yachats City Council OKs $370,000 Bid to Renovate City’s Little Log Church Museum

The Yachats city council has approved a bid to begin renovations on the city’s historic Little Log Church Museum despite the higher-than-expected cost.

During a public hearing at its Wednesday meeting, the council approved a $370,000 bid from Top to Bottom Contractors of Newport to begin renovations — weather willing — sometime this winter.

The city received two bids for the project, which Civil West Engineering Services estimated would cost about $263,000. The other bid from Lippincott Construction & North Pacific Woodworks was $460,000. But its bid was for a new log-cabin-style structure, which is not what the city requested.

Prior to its unanimous decision to accept the bid, the council heard from Civil West’s senior project manager Tim Gross and Top to Bottom’s Jose Gonzales. Gross stood by the company’s cost estimate and submitted documents advising council to reject both bids and instead seek new ones in the spring.

Gross said bids would be more competitive in the spring when companies were seeking summer work and have better weather to begin the project. It would also give Lippincott a chance to re-submit a bid for renovation only.

“I guess it depends on your position in the city,” Gross said. “If the city has the funds to do the work and you just want to get it done, I don’t think you’re going to make a bad decision to award the contract.”

And he added that by waiting, the city could be more intentional in finding local contractors to bid.

It’s a question of how quickly the city wants to get the project finished, Gross said, which he suggested would not take much longer if council decided to wait for bids in spring because of the approaching rainy season. There is only so much a contractor can accomplish in winter, he said.

Jose Gonzales with Top to Bottom told councilors he had reviewed Civil West’ estimate and believes it was low because it was completed in 2019 before the post-Covid increase in material costs.

“I pulled new numbers based on current prices for the same materials they had asked for and just for the siding alone, (it) came in at an extra $20,000,” Gonzales said. “Electrical came in at an extra $50,000 from the numbers that they had estimated. So that’s the reason why our estimate is a little bit higher than what their estimates came in at.”

He said he checked prices with the same suppliers used by Civil West in its estimate.

“And also, I think doing the project now, in the wintertime is also when we as the contractor have the most time,” Gonzales said. “Summertime is when we have the most amount of work so it might be harder to do during the summertime. We are ready to go if you guys decide to go for it.”

The company has a lot of experience with this type of renovation, he said, and is currently remodeling the homeless shelter in Newport, which will be finished in the next couple months. READ MORE: https://yachatsnews.com/yachats-council-oks-370000-bid-to-finally-renovate-citys-little-log-church-museum/

Oregon Coast Aquarium –  Our renovated Connected Coasts gallery and brand-new Sea Jelly gallery open this #Halloween!

This debut marks the completion of our gallery construction; as of October 31, guests will be able to view every exhibit we have. Celebrate with us by “dressing like a jelly” for the opening weekend! We encourage guests to visit in-costume from Oct. 31-Nov. 3. Learn more at https://aquarium.org/ocaq-unveils-connected-coasts-and-sea-jelly-galleries/

Governor Kotek Releases Statement on $25 Million Award for Port of Coos Bay

Governor Kotek released a statement on the $25 million award to the Oregon International Port of Coos Bay from the Nationally Significant Multimodal Freight & Highway Projects program (INFRA) through the U.S. Department of Transportation for the Pacific Coast Intermodal Port (PCIP) Terminal Planning Project.

This award will advance environmental review, permitting, and preliminary engineering and design for the intermodal terminal component of the larger PCIP project, including the railyard, container yard, wharf, and berths.

“When I visited with the Port of Coos Bay staff last year on the One Oregon Listening Tour, I was reminded of just how vital our state’s ports are to the economic growth and prosperity of our communities. Today’s exciting award announcement marks a critical step in the effort to establish a vital intermodal gateway for west coast imports and exports at the Port of Coos Bay,” Governor Kotek said. “Thanks to the leadership of Congresswoman Val Hoyle and our federal delegation, we are unlocking opportunities to alleviate highway congestion by modernizing infrastructure and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”

“I am thrilled today that the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded over $25 million for the Port of Coos Bay Intermodal Project,” U.S. Representative Val Hoyle said. “This project has the potential to bring over 8,000 jobs to Southwest Oregon’s coastal communities and to strengthen our nation’s supply chain. Today’s announcement brings us one step closer to rebuilding the South Coast as an economic engine for the state and introduces more pathways to the middle class.” She added, “I would like to thank Secretary Buttigieg, the U.S. Department of Transportation, the White House, and my partners in Congress for their support and persistence to help bring this project closer to fruition.”

The Pacific Coast Intermodal Port (PCIP) Terminal Planning Project will be designed to move nearly 100% of in and outbound containers by rail for land slide movements and utilize electrification or other green energy source for moving containers within the yard. This project will provide additional capacity for imports, create a new gateway for U.S. exports, and is anticipated to generate a significant economic impact in rural Oregon.

Additional information on the project can be found here.

Coos Bay Sidewalk Replacement Project Starts

The City of Coos Bay Public Works Department has contracted with Freedom Builders, to replace the sidewalk between S. 6th Street & S. 7th Street on Anderson Avenue. Work will also include the addition of storm drain improvements and the removal and replanting of trees.

Work will begin the morning of October 21, 2024 and is expected to be completed in the middle of December. To complete the work, traffic control will be in place for vehicles and pedestrians. Please follow the direction of traffic control signage and please slow down and take caution when near the construction zone. Should you have any questions or want more information, please contact Greg Hamblet at (541) 269-1181 ext. 3541 or email ghamblet@coosbayor.gov.

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.

Coos County Sheriff’s Office · •••Scammer Alert•••

Coos County residents have reported receiving calls from scammers posing as Sheriff’s Office representatives, demanding payment via money transfer or cryptocurrency to settle warrants. This tactic is fraudulent and law enforcement will never request payment for warrant clearance. Report such incidents to your local authorities.

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

Oregon Department of Emergency Management Hosts Statewide Exercise IronOR 24 Simulating Response to a Cascadia Subduction Zone Earthquake

The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is preparing to host IronOR 24, a statewide emergency exercise taking place October 28-31, 2024. This four-day exercise is designed to test Oregon’s capabilities and readiness in responding to a catastrophic Cascadia Subduction Zone (CSZ) Earthquake.

Building upon the Cascadia Rising 2016 exercise, which simulated the immediate response to a Cascadia up to day 3. IronOR 24 will focus on continued operations Day 4 through Day 7 of the disaster response. The exercise will evaluate the state’s ability to maintain operational coordination, ensure critical communication systems remain functional, and develop a strategy for human impacts during these critical days of response.

IronOR 24 Exercise Schedule:

• Monday, October 28: Event Preparation and Scene Setting
• Tuesday, October 29: Exercise Play
• Wednesday, October 30: Exercise Play
• Thursday, October 31: Exercise Play and Review

The 12-month planning process for IronOR 24 involved a review of lessons learned from Cascadia Rising, and further development of critical statewide response. Key goals of the exercise include:

1. Operational coordination: ensuring the Oregon Emergency Coordination Center (ECC) can prioritize and coordinate response actions, sharing critical incident information throughout the simulated response.
2. Redundant communications: testing the establishment and maintenance of communications systems to mitigate the impacts of disrupted communications following the earthquake.
3. Human impacts strategy: addressing the human needs of those affected by the earthquake, including sheltering, healthcare, and mass care, through Emergency Support Function (ESF) #6.

“IO24 is a collaborative opportunity to practice a unified Cascadia Earthquake response that will include participation from 18 state agencies, 17 county governments, 9 Oregon recognized Tribal governments, and 10+ federal agencies participating at varying levels over three days.” said Robert Quinn, Exercise Officer at the Oregon Department of Emergency Management. ” This exercise enables our statewide partners to assess their current capabilities and readiness for this significant hazard.”

OEM has developed a dedicated online storyboard for IronOR 24, which serves as a central hub for exercise planning, updates and resources. This tool supports participating agencies and provides non-participating organizations with critical context about the exercise.

Ballot boxes set on fire in Oregon, Washington with hundreds of ballots burned

The Portland Police Bureau said on Monday morning, officers responded to reports of a fire at a ballot box located on the 1000 block of Southeast Morrison Street.

Security guards had extinguished the fire by the time officers had arrived.

Authorities said an incendiary device was placed inside the ballot box before the fire ignited. The police’s Explosive Disposal Unit came onto the scene and cleared the device.

Also, according to FOX 12, police in Vancouver, Washington, are also investigating a ballot box that was set on fire Monday morning. 

The fire was set at the C-TRAN Park & Ride at Fisher’s Landing Transit Center, according to the outlet. 

Someone told police that someone stuck a device outside the ballot box which set the fire. 

Officials told the outlet that hundreds of ballots were burned. FOX 12 also reported that last time ballots were picked up from the box was 11 a.m. on Saturday. 

The fires came after a similar instance in Arizona last week. 

According to FOX 10 Phoenix, an arrest was made after a United States Postal Service mailbox in Phoenix was lit on fire last Thursday, damaging over a dozen ballots.

RELATED: Ballots damaged after USPS mailbox lit on fire in Phoenix; suspect arrested

The fire happened just before 1:30 a.m. on October 24 outside a post office near 7th Avenue and Indian School Road. 

Phoenix Fire crews responded to the scene and extinguished the flames. Twenty electoral ballots, and other pieces of mail, were damaged in the fire.

“The Postal Inspector took possession of the damaged ballots and mail,” Phoenix Fire Capt. Rob McDade said. “The Phoenix Fire Investigations Task Force, which includes Phoenix Police detectives and Phoenix Fire investigators, are working with US Postal Inspectors.”

• The information in this story came from a news release provided by the Portland Police Bureau with additional reporting from FOX 12 in Portland, Oregon. FOX 10 Phoenix also contributed to this report. This story was reported from Los Angeles.  https://www.fox5ny.com/news/ballot-boxes-fire-oregon-washington

FBI Statement on Ballot Box Fires
FBI – Oregon 

The FBI is coordinating with federal, state and local partners to actively investigate the two incidents in Vancouver, Washington, and Portland, Oregon, in the early morning hours of Monday, October 28^th to determine who is responsible. 

Anyone with information is asked to contact the nearest FBI office, provide information through tips.fbi.gov or call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324).

Oregon State Fire Marshal incident management team members returning from Hurricane Helene recovery in North Carolina

The Oregon State Fire Marshal incident management team sent to North Carolina in mid-October will return home at the end of the week after a two-week deployment. The team was in Yancey County helping with Hurricane Helene recovery.

Oregon Incident Commander Lance Lighty and Plans Section Chief Bill Boos will replace departing personnel to ensure a seamless transition in leadership and maintain strong support for North Carolina’s ongoing recovery operations. Lighty will take command from Incident Commander Ian Yocum, leading the OSFM’s continued assistance efforts.

The incoming OSFM team members traveled Tuesday. After arrival, they will shadow the current team and take over command the following day, marking the next phase of the OSFM’s support in North Carolina.

“Our team is honored to contribute to the community’s continued recovery in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple. “The commitment and expertise of our incident management teams reflect Oregon’s dedication to supporting others in times of need.”

The OSFM has three all-hazard incident management teams. They typically respond to help communities when they are impacted by wildfire. The team was ordered through the Oregon Department of Emergency Management and the Emergency Management Assistance Compact. The compact provides help during governor-declared emergencies or disasters by allowing states to send personnel, equipment, and supplies to support response and recovery efforts in other states.

ODF firefighters return home from hurricane recovery assignment

The Oregon Department of Forestry is excited to welcome home 13 firefighters after a two-week deployment in North Carolina to assist in Hurricane Helene recovery efforts. The crew supported the North Carolina Forest Service in state forest clean up, wildfire initial attack and other assignments. To date, they accomplished over 55 miles of clearing roads and trails, averaging about three to five miles a day.  

“It was an honor and a privilege to work with such an outstanding group of individuals,” said Dave Larson, ODF’s Agency Representative for the assignment and Southern Oregon Area Director.  

The crew was mobilized on October 9 to North Carolina with a simple instruction: to help wherever needed. Upon landing, they almost immediately saw the level of devastation and were aware that they would be just a small piece in the larger picture when it comes to recovery in the state. The inspiring outpouring of support for North Carolina helped to fuel ODF firefighters on their mission. They worked so hard clearing roads and trails that, within the first week, they ahead of schedule and able to be reassigned to other efforts like wildfire initial attack.  

“The crew was incredibly hard working and true professionals that reflect ODF and our protection association partners’ culture and values of dedication to public service, which is ‘Whatever it takes’,” Larson said.  

Sending our firefighters on these out-of-state deployments helps them build relationships outside of our organization and allows the Oregon Department of Forestry to return the favor to our interstate partners. At the peak of Oregon’s fire season, North Carolina was one of 20 states that sent much needed wildland fire personnel to help.  

This is all done through mutual assistance agreements with other states, including Alaska and NW Canadian territories, creating a cache of reciprocal resources and a larger, comprehensive fire management system. 

So far this year, the Oregon Department of Forestry has sent firefighters to New Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, Texas, Idaho, Minnesota and North Carolina.  

Oregon Department of Forestry launches Prescribed Fire Liability Program

Salem, Ore.— The Oregon Department of Forestry is happy to announce the launch of the Prescribed Fire Liability Program. This pilot program is intended to increase use of prescribed fire and cultural burning and support fire practitioners by providing liability coverage for enrolled burns.

Introducing periodic fire to fire-adapted landscapes and reducing forest fuels has been shown to lessen the potential for high-intensity wildfires and the large volume of smoke they produce. 

While the rates of escape and loss are very low due to the careful planning and preparation required for prescribed fire and cultural burning, there is always some residual risk when working with fire. This risk, and the resulting liability for damages due to escape if uninsured, can deter some practitioners from using beneficial fire.

Governor Kotek signed House Bill 4016 in 2024 establishing the pilot Prescribed Fire Liability Program. It authorizes claims covering certain losses arising from escaped prescribed fires and cultural burns. Participation in the program is voluntary.

For your burn to have liability coverage under the program, all the following conditions must be met: 

• The burn is enrolled in the program prior to burning.
• The burn is conducted or supervised by an appropriate party for the burn.
• Ensure the burn follows all applicable laws related to the burn (obtain and follow any required permits/burn plan, make required notifications for Certified Burn Manager-led burns, additional paperwork/ submissions for Power Driven Machinery, etc.).
• If the burn escapes, the fire must not be a result of willful, malicious, or negligent actions in the origin or subsequent spread.

Learn more about the program and apply at ODF’s Prescribed Fire Liability Program web page. 

For more information on prescribed fire and correlating programs, visit ODF’s Prescribed Fire web page. 

Oregon to Auction Off Defective Modular Homes in Medford As An Effort to Recoup Almost $24 Million

Oregon Housing and Community Services, the state’s housing agency, will auction off 140 defective modular homes in a series of two-week-long auctions.

The state purchased the homes in 2021, with most of them intended to rebuild Royal Oaks Mobile Manor in Phoenix, which was destroyed in the 2020 Almeda Fire. Families who lost their homes in the fire were prioritized for housing.

But last summer, the homes were found to be unfit to live in, due to mold, water leaks and other issues. There are unresolved questions about why the homes had defects.

Now, OHCS has announced it will auction off the defective homes in an effort to recoup some of the approximately $24 million dollars it says it spent on them.

Caleb Yant, deputy director of OHCS, said buyers will be informed about their quality.

“We’re very intentionally disclosing everything that we know, so there’s notices going out to all potential buyers of the different inspections that we’ve had, the code violations, the reports that we’ve done, had experts do on water intrusion, those sorts of things. So potential buyers know exactly the status of the units,” he said.

He said buyers will also have access to hundreds of photos of the units, and there will be an opportunity for buyers to inspect the units themselves and “bring whatever professionals that they need in order to really understand the current status of the units.”

After the homes were found to be defective, OHCS said in August 2023 that it planned to rebuild them with a different manufacturer. But in March, it changed tactics and announced it would replace the homes instead. A new manufacturer is currently building long-awaited new homes for Royal Oaks.

Originally, move-in for fire survivors was slated for September 2023. The new batch of modular homes could now be ready for move-in in April 2025.

OHCS says these auctions will occur in coordination with the state’s Department of Administrative Services (DAS) Surplus and a third-party service called GovDeals, which DAS regularly uses to sell state-owned equipment.

“We know that there is a number of parties who are interested in purchasing the homes and repair them,” OHCS said in a statement.

But it’s unclear how much these defective modular homes will sell for.

“It’s challenging to predict what the price point will be,” Yant said. “I don’t think that we’re expecting to recoup the entire amount [we spent on them].”

Meanwhile, OHCS and Oregon’s Department of Justice are in ongoing legal proceedings related to why the original batch of modular homes had defects, according to OHCS. Yant declined to comment on that litigation but said the auctions are not the only way OHCS is working to recoup funds.

Some have wondered if the state was negligent in caring for the original modular homes in the period between construction and installation. It took time to find a suitable location for them, so they were left sitting for months. OHCS said the problems were not due to the homes being unoccupied for so long but because of problems with the manufacturing.

The first two-week auction will begin on Oct. 29 and will include 33 homes. The next auction will begin on Nov. 7 and will include 35 homes. Those 68 homes are all currently being stored in Medford. There are also 72 additional homes that the state purchased from the manufacturer, Nashua Builders in Boise, that are still in Idaho. Yant says they will be moved into Oregon and auctioned off in the spring of 2025.

Anyone who would like to register to participate in the auction can do so here. (SOURCE)

Oregon Health Authority to launch new rental assistance program in November 

Oregon will be the first in the nation to offer a statewide rental assistance program through Medicaid 

The Oregon Health Authority is launching a new rental assistance program through its Medicaid plan that serves low-income Oregonians when medical crises impact their ability to pay rent. 

The health authority’s plans are intended to keep people housed who need a short-term bridge to make ends meet and pay rent. Its goal is to help people maintain their health and their housing, which can lead to better long-term outcomes. People who face homelessness or the threat of eviction are 35% more likely to delay preventative health care, according to one national study. 

To find out more about the housing program and eligibility, go here.

The program, which starts in November, will make Oregon the first state in the nation to offer a statewide rental assistance program through Medicaid. The Oregon Health Plan, the state’s Medicaid program, provides more than 1.4 million Oregonians with health care, dental care and behavioral health care services. 

“It really is focusing on trying to keep those most at risk still housed, hopefully leading to them being able to have some short-term help,” said Dave Baden, the authority’s deputy director for policy and programs, in a recent press call with reporters.

The Oregon Health Authority is providing the program through its Medicaid waiver, which is a five-year plan that the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid approved. States can receive waivers as a tool to try new programs or approaches to Medicaid. Oregon’s current Medicaid waiver is in effect from Oct. 1, 2022, through Sept. 30, 2027. 

During this period, Oregon has nearly $1 billion available for the rental assistance programs and other new programs within the Medicaid plan for air conditioners, air filters and food benefits. Most of the money — $904 million — is federal funding, with a state match of $71 million. 

The program can cover rental and utility costs for up to six months, including past-due amounts. People also can receive medically necessary home improvements, including wheelchair ramps, pest control and heavy-duty cleaning. 

The program covers rental assistance, but not new housing placements for people who are homeless.

“The goal of the housing benefit is really around keeping people housed and preventing houselessness,” said Steph Jarem, the authority’s waiver policy director. 

Not everyone on Medicaid is eligible. To qualify, an Oregonian enrolled in the Oregon Health Plan would need to have a qualifying risk factor, such as complex medical condition, behavioral health condition, pregnancy or repeated emergency department trips. 

The program can cover people who fall behind on rent because of a chronic condition or an injury that prevents them from working.

They also would need an income that is 30% or less than the median income of their region. For a family of four in Portland or Hillsboro, the cutoff is $35,400.  

State officials estimate 22% of Oregon’s 618,278 households that rent have incomes that fall below the threshold and are potentially eligible.

In one example, a person who lives alone in Hood River and makes $18,000 a year could get help for missing work with a broken leg while also living with chronic heart disease. 

The authority reached the eligibility determinations after negotiations with the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. (SOURCE)

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=.

FISCHER is a white male, 5’10”, 200 lbs., has blonde hair and blue-colored eyes. FISCHER is also known to dress like a woman.

On the second day of FISCHER’s trial in Hernando County, Florida, he failed to appear in court and immediately fled the state the same day. Investigators learned he fled to California, Oregon and as of recently to North Idaho. FISCHER has been utilizing fictious name(s), likely utilizing cash and has had associates pay for certain expenses while he’s been on the run.

In North Idaho, the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) Greater Idaho Fugitive task force learned FISCHER has attempted to befriend multiple families in the area, to include those with children. Earlier this week, prior to the task force’s attempt to arrest FISCHER, he was seen carving pumpkins at his last known location off Kelso Rd in Athol with an unknown family. Investigators have not been able to identify the family yet and urge the family or anyone else who has had interactions with FISCHER to contact the local USMS office. All tips or information regarding this fugitive investigation case will remain anonymous.

The local task force is continuing to work closely with the USMS office in the Middle District of Florida, the Florida Regional Fugitive Task Force and the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office in Brooksville, Florida, as well as other investigators from multiple other states.

The following is a link to a short announcement on Facebook from Hernando County Sheriff Al Nienhuis regarding fugitive Christian FISCHER:

https://www.facebook.com/HernandoSheriff/videos/manhunt-monday-02-12-2024/356273974034934/.

The USMS Greater Idaho Fugitive Task Force is a state-wide cooperative to locate and arrest violent offenders wanted for local, state and federal crimes. Member agencies throughout the State of Idaho include: the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office, Coeur d’Alene Police Department, Idaho Department of Corrections, Idaho State Police, Nampa Police Department, Pocatello Police Department and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Anyone with information on FISCHER’s whereabouts is urged to contact the local USMS office at (208) 518-4024, the USMS Communication Center at 1-800-336-0102, or USMS Tips at www.usmarshals.gov/tips.

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

ADVISORY: Oregon bats vie for ‘world record’ three-peat in BLM’s Bat Beauty Contest

When:         October 24 – 31

Where:     Virtual via Zoom, or

In person at theBLM Ashland Field Office, Oregon 

Who:         Emma Busk, Wildlife Technician

Contact:   Jeanne Panfely, jpanfely@blm.gov

Ashland, Ore. – The Bureau of Land Management’s annual Bat Beauty Contest returns! Your local Oregon bats are here to defend their crown and try to take home the top prize for the third year in a row.

Each October, the BLM hosts a beauty contest to find the most stunning bat photographed on BLM public lands across the county. The event begins on October 24 and ends on Halloween. It also coincides with International Bat Week, which raises awareness about bat conservation and the essential role bats play in the natural world.

This year, there are two Oregon bats participating in the contest! Hoary Potter, a male hoary bat with a feisty personality, will compete in the first round of the contest October 24. Honey Bunches of Myotis, a long-eared myotis bat, will compete in the second round of the contest October 25.

The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land, located primarily in 11 western states and Alaska. Those other states are working hard to end the batty three-peat. You can help Oregon bring home the crown by voting on the BLM National Facebook page or the BLM National Instagram page.

Last year, William ShakespEAR, a female Townsend’s big-eared bat from Butte Falls, took home the crown on the afternoon of October 31. During the final round, she beat out Gizmo, an Allen’s Big-Eared Bat. William was photographed by Emma Busk, BLM wildlife technician.

The year before, the BLM crowned Barbara, a canyon bat from Lake County, the 2022 Bat Beauty Contest Winner. Barbara was photographed by Kate Yates, BLM wildlife biologist.

Both of this year’s bats were photographed by Busk.

“It’s important that we fact check what we think we know about bats,” said Busk. “There are a lot of myths around bats, but they’re amazing wildlife and they contribute so much to our ecosystem.”

Bats play an essential role in Oregon. All bats in the Pacific Northwest are insectivorous, meaning they rid our world of pests like mosquitos, beetles, and moths. Just one bat can eat up to 1,200 mosquitoes in an hour!

Want to do your part? As we head into winter, avoid exploring mines and caves where bats may be hibernating. 

“In your own backyard, you can have a bat house!” said Emma. “It’s a shelter that helps protect bats during the winter. You can also make your garden more bat friendly by planting native flowers to attract insects and turning off any unnecessary lights. Light pollution is not great for bats.”

Want to get involved? Follow the Bureau of Land Management Oregon/Washington on Facebook (@BLMOregonAndWashington) or Instagram (@BLMOregonWashington). We’ll be sharing how you can vote for Hoary Potter and Honey Bunches of Myotis and support your native Oregon species!

With the arrival of seasonal rains and cooler weather, all Oregon Department of Forestry districts terminated fire restrictions as of Oct. 28, bringing an end to the state’s historic fire season.

Dry weather combined with lightning-sparked blazes and human-caused fires to put immense strain on firefighters and resources in 2024.“This season proved that wildfire in Oregon is not just one agency’s issue but affects all Oregonians from government agencies to private landowners to Oregon residents,” said Kyle Williams, ODF deputy director of fire protection.

Since the outdoor burning restrictions were lifted in many Oregon counties – New Fire  starts are daily due to outdoor burning piles causing grass  fires.

Please use caution  85% of all wildfires are human caused. Oregon still has over 70 fires and for most counties the fire season is not over yet.

Preventing wildfires requires a collective effort from everyone—help mitigate the risk of human-caused wildfires and protect our forests and communities.

Monitor Fires in Oregon – Updated Daily

https://app.watchduty.org/

Please Help Prevent Wildfires! In these dry conditions, a single spark can cause a lot of damage. Learn how you can prevent wildfires by visiting the Oregon State Fire Marshal’s wildfire prevention page. 

Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs to Host Statewide Veterans Day Ceremony at Oregon State Capitol Park

The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs will honor all veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces during its Statewide Veterans Day Ceremony at 11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 11, in view of the Oregon State Capitol Building.

This event will feature remarks by dignitaries and special guests along with ceremonial elements including a color guard, singing of the national anthem, a wreath laying and the playing of “Taps.”

The celebration will honor Oregon veterans of all eras and will be hosted at the Oregon State Capitol State Park located on Court Street Northeast in Salem — directly in front of the main entrance of the Oregon State Capitol Building.

The event is open to the public and uncovered seating will be provided for attendees. Accessible pathways and seating areas for those needing accommodations will also be provided. Attendees are reminded to plan accordingly for Oregon weather.

For those unable to attend, the event will also be livestreamed on ODVA’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/odvavet. If you have any questions about this event, please contact ODVA at (800) 692-9666 or visit www.oregon.gov/odva.

Oregon Housing and Community Services’ Homeowner Assistance Fund accepting final applications online CLOSES October 31st

— Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) is reopening the Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) online application portal to accept final applications directly from homeowners. Applications must be submitted by Oct. 31, 2024. New applications will be put on a waitlist and prioritized for homeowners most at risk of foreclosure or loss. 

Homeowners can now review application criteria and apply directly online using a link on the HAF website: oregonhomeownerassistance.org. If homeowners need or would like assistance with an application, they can contact a HAF intake partner. A list of intake partners can be found at https://www.oregon.gov/ohcs/homeownership/Pages/Homeownership-Assistance-Fund.aspx.

“OHCS is reopening the online application portal through Oct. 31, 2024, to ensure we help as many Oregon families as possible,” said Ryan Vanden Brink, assistant director of Homeowner Assistance Programs. “With our average award of $26,500, we can assist approximately 250 additional households. Any further applications will be placed on a waitlist pending the availability of funds.”  

HAF offers federal temporary COVID-19 pandemic relief to help homeowners who experienced financial hardship due to the pandemic. HAF can help homeowners become current on their mortgages, county taxes, homeowners’ (HOA) or condo associations, land sale contracts, secured manufactured home or floating home loans, and lot rent or moorage fees associated with homeowners in manufactured home parks or marinas. Financial hardship includes a reduction in income or an increase in housing costs resulting from the pandemic.

Homeowners are eligible to apply if they meet the program’s general eligibility criteria and are facing foreclosure, involved in a court case that threatens their home, in property tax foreclosure, in collections with their HOA, or in other high-risk situations identified by a housing counselor. Homeowners in foreclosure may have already received outreach letters from OHCS or their county assessor. 

OHCS will make its final HAF payments in February 2025, limiting total assistance available to new applicants.OHCS encourages homeowners to explore all other options with their servicer or a housing counselor before applying for HAF. Applying for HAF does not guarantee approval or that a foreclosure will be postponed. HAF is administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury.

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.

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. 

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.

Contact us: Info@OregonBeachMagazine.com