The latest news stories across the state of Oregon from the digital home of the Oregon coastal cities, OregonBeachMagazine.com
Wednesday, March 6, 2024
Oregon Beach Weather
SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY ISSUED: 2:01 AM MAR. 6, 2024 – NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE
...SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 4 AM PST THURSDAY... * WHAT...North winds 15 to 20 kt with gusts up to 25 kt and steep seas 6 to 8 ft. * WHERE...All areas. * WHEN...Until 4 AM PST Thursday. * IMPACTS...Gusty winds and/or steep seas could capsize or damage smaller vessels. * View the hazard area in detail at https://go.usa.gov/x6hks
Yachats Seeking Applicants for Vacancy On City Council
The city of Yachats is seeking applicants for a vacancy on the city council that was created with the Feb. 21 resignation of Greg Scott.
Applications to serve the remainder of the term, which ends Dec. 31, are due by May 31. Applicants must be registered to vote in Oregon and have lived in Yachats for 12 months prior to appointment.
Council members meet once a month for regular sessions and once a month for work sessions. Additional time commitments may include committee meetings, budget meetings and more.
Responsibilities include the ability to learn about a wide variety of issues, a willingness to consider differing opinions during decision-making and understanding how the council functions and operates through the city charter. Good communication and willingness to accept majority rule are crucial to the position, as well as analytical skill, acceptance of public criticism and a sense of humor, according to the city’s announcement.
A new council member may be chosen before the May 31 application deadline, said Mayor Craig Berdie. Candidates will be interviewed and chosen during public meetings.
Applications and information about the position is available at: https://www.yachatsoregon.org/FormCenter/Volunteer-Forms-9/City-of-Yachats-Application-for-Vacant-C-82 (SOURCE)
Oregon Health Plan Launches New Health Benefit In Coos And Curry Counties
One of three Oregon Health Plan Health-Related Social Needs Benefits just became available to members in OHP’s effort to address health detriments that aren’t a medical diagnosis.
On March 1, OHP launched its climate benefit for members in Coos and Curry counties who are assigned to Advanced Health; they’ll also add housing and food benefits in the coming months.
Members are eligible to receive climate devices such as air conditioners, heaters, medical refrigerators, portable power supplies, and air filtration devices
Amanda McCarthy, director of social determinants of health for Advanced Health says if members aren’t living comfortably in extreme weather, they’re less likely to manage chronic conditions.
“They have trouble keeping them under control which leads to emergency room visits, extra primary care visits, extra medication,” said McCarthy. “What we’re really aiming to do is meet the most vulnerable populations who could encounter negative health outcomes due to excessive heat, excessive cold, poor air quality, or the inability to store life-saving medications or run life-saving medical devices in inclement weather.”
Advanced Health Community Engagement Manager Sam Baugh tells us the coming food and housing benefits would meet those social needs.
“Approximately a third of our population is on our Oregon Health Plan which means their income is lower. For the housing, it’s designed to help people stay in housing as opposed to becoming homeless. The food and nutrition is designed to help teach people what healthy eating actually looks like and is designed to help them understand and get the needed nutrition into their homes,” said Baugh.
To access the new benefit, members can be referred by one of Advanced Health’s community partners like Oregon Coast Community Action (ORCCA), or they may contact their primary care doctor.
The housing benefit is expected to go live in November, and the food benefit could become available as soon as January of next year. — For more information, visit: https://advancedhealth.com/members/health-related-social-needs/.
Coos County Man Arrested for Domestic Violence
On March 4th, 2024, around 3:12 am, Coos County Dispatch received a report of a domestic disturbance in a motorhome at the end of the North Spit in North Bend. It was reported that the male involved had choked, punched, and threatened to kill a female. Deputy Z. Smith responded to investigate.Upon arrival, Deputy Smith quickly learned that the male, a Coos County resident, Jayson Bridges (51), had argued with the victim over perceived statements.
During the argument, Mr. Bridges struck the victim in the face (3) times, choked her, and put her in fear for her life.Deputy Smith arrested Mr. Bridges for the domestic crimes of Assault in the 4th Degree, Harassment, Strangulation, and Menacing. Mr. Bridges was transported to the Coos County Jail where he was booked, processed, and remains in custody.
Man and woman arrested in Bandon on drug possession charges due to be released due to Oregon State Revised Statute 475.898 giving offenders Immunity from some drug-related offenses when calling for emergency medical assistance
Due to Oregon State Revised Statue 475.898, which gives offenders immunity from some drug-related offenses when calling for emergency medical assistance, Diana Gonzalezsolis (52) and Rogelio S. Espinosa (40) will be released from the Coos County Jail.
The charges of Unlawful Manufacture of Methamphetamine, Unlawful Manufacture of Heroin, and Felon in Possession of a firearm arm will still be pursued and work their way through the judicial process.
It is important to note that, due to aggressive hiring efforts by the Coos County Sheriff’s Office to open more jail space, these offenders would have been held in custody, if not for ORS 475.898.The narcotics, U.S. currency, and involved vehicle remain in Sheriff’s Office custody.
The Sheriff’s Office and S.C.I.N.T. are undeterred and remain committed to taking these illegal substances and drug traffickers off our streets while working within the laws of the United States and the State of Oregon. (See link Below for ORS information)https://oregon.public.law/statutes/ors_475.898
Oregon Senators Announce $27 Million To Support Pacific Salmon Recovery
On Thursday, Oregon Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley announced an investment of $27 million from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to help support recovery efforts for Pacific salmon populations.
A joint release said the federal funds are available due to the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act.
This investment builds on several projects Senator Wyden has supported, including a $2.5 million grant in 2022 to replace larger culverts on five rivers in the Tillamook Bay basin to increase salmon and other fish habitat.
Wyden said, “This federal investment is going to go a long way in making sure the salmon, which is so central to our culture and economies here in Oregon, recover from the population decline we have seen year after year”. Wyden said, “We have much work to do, but these actions will help build on the past successful projects such as restoring spawning grounds, establishing a Salmon Superhighway, and easing stress on migration routes”.
Merkley said, “The health of communities across Oregon goes hand-in-hand with the health of our state’s waterways, fish habitats and infrastructure”. Merkley said, “These federal investments will support initiatives to help strengthen natural infrastructure and reconnect fish habitats and migration routes – initiatives critical to boosting salmon recovery efforts and investing in the long-term viability of Oregon’s coastal communities”.
The release said additional funding is allocated to research projects that will benefit salmon populations and recovery efforts. These investments by NOAA from the Inflation Reduction Act amount to a total investment of $42 million nationally to address issues with salmon populations and restoration programs. (SOURCE)
Suspect Sought in Florence Area Shooting
Lane County sheriff’s deputies are seeking the public’s help in finding a suspect allegedly involved in a shooting that seriously injured a man in the Florence area on Monday evening, according to the Lane County Sheriff’s Office.
LCSO officials said deputies responded with Florence police officers at about 10:30 p.m. on February 26 to a reported shooting in the area of the Goose Pasture Staging Area on South Jetty Road. Responding deputies and officers found a male victim who had shot while inside his trailer and suffered serious gunshot-related injuries, authorities said.
Sheriff’s officials said that the victim was transported to the hospital and is reportedly in stable condition. Detectives are continuing to actively investigate the incident but have not yet located the involved suspect, authorities said.
LCSO said that anyone with information related to the incident is asked to contact Detective Hudson at 541-682-4150, select option 1, and reference case number 24-0990,
North Bend Increases City Service Fees
The North Bend city council unanimously approved a 3.2% increase in fees relating to city services during the last city council meeting. Resolution 3342 was approved, authorizing an increase to city fees and charges, revising the master fee schedule of the city. This increase affects administration fees like parking tickets and licenses, pool fees, public work fees, and building fees.
This year’s increase is a lower percentage than previous years, which was a 5.9% increase in 2022. And an 8.7% increase in 2023. The Finance Director for the city says this is due to the 2024 cost of living adjustment, which aims to help people keep up with their expenses.
The annual increase comes from a regular review of city fees and charges in which the city aims to recover cost of living services and products.
Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon
· Tip of the Week For the Week of March 4, 2024 — Problem Gambling Awareness
March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM) and it’s a great reminder that activities, like gambling, can become a problem and impact our communities in different ways. Gambling can be an activity that is used for recreation and fun, but gambling interacts with our brains in the same way alcohol, drugs, and other “low-effort, high-reward” activities do. Because of this, gambling can become an addiction. Problem gambling is the continuation of gambling activities despite personal, social, or financial consequences. Gambling problems are more than just a money issue.
Each year problem gambling effects our communities with social impacts such as gambling-related crime which can include embezzling money or burglaries and thefts to help pay gambling debts. Aside from the financial and criminal consequences, problem gambling also negatively impacts relationships. For every one person with a gambling disorder, it is estimated that an additional eight to ten others are affected. Workplaces may see a decrease in productivity, an increase in absences, and other issues if an employee has a gambling disorder. Family and friends often feel replaced by someone’s gambling and can bear the burden of picking up additional responsibilities -both financially, like paying bills on time, and socially, such as increased responsibilities with family, pets, or homecare. Problem gambling is often referred to as the “hidden addiction” because it is easy to hide and can be difficult for others to notice, but there are some warning signs you can look for.
Problem gambling warning signs: 
Distracted with thoughts of gambling Spending more time and money gambling Lying or hiding gambling activity Risking or damaging relationships Being irritable when not gambling Gambling to win back losses (also known as chasing losses) Exaggerating wins and minimizing losses Borrowing money Gambling debts Missing work or other responsibilities
If you choose to gamble, there are ways to reduce the risk of gambling becoming a problem. Setting a time limit, balancing life with other social and recreational activities, and avoiding alcohol while gambling are some of the recommended responsible gambling guidelines. You can find more responsible gambling guidelines by visiting www.opgr.org/prevention-resources/.In Oregon, FREE problem gambling treatment and support is available for someone with a gambling disorder and those that may be affected by someone’s problem gambling.
Free problem gambling treatment and support: 
Lincoln County Problem Gambling Treatment 
Phone: 541-265-6611 Ext 3324 
Oregon Problem Gambling Resource Phone: 1-877-695-4648 Text: 503-713-6000 Chat on website: OPGR.org
Coos Bay’s Property Watch Program Enhances Safety for Local Property Owners
The Property Watch program in Coos Bay aims to enhance community awareness. Initiated by the Coos Bay Police Department (CBPD) in 2019, the program helps commercial property owners, businesses, and apartment complexes to curb incidents that happen after business hours or in the absence of the owner or manager. The CBPD can address non-criminal issues on private property, like loitering nonresidents or unauthorized vehicles.
The Property Watch program follows successful models from other Oregon law enforcement agencies. It works on a legal basis of a signed agreement between the property owner or manager and the CBPD, giving the CBPD the right to deal with individuals on private property and ask them to leave if needed.
The program’s objective is to give the CBPD legal authority to help property owners and managers keep their properties safe when they are away. This is especially useful for properties that are prone to incidents after business hours.
Enrollment in the program is free and can be renewed annually. Property owners and managers can opt out at any time, offering them the flexibility to use the program as required, and enhancing the security of their properties.
For more details about the Property Watch program, interested individuals can reach out to the CBPD on their non-emergency line. The program is a useful tool for property owners and managers in Coos Bay, offering extra help in ensuring the safety and security of their properties. MORE INFO: https://www.coosbayor.gov/Home/Components/News/News/1023/222
BANDON CRAB FESTIVAL — March 9th
Join your fellow seafood lovers for a crab dinner, music, dancing, and fun.
Crabbing holds a special place in the heart of the Bandon community. To celebrate and pay homage to this cherished tradition, we are thrilled to announce the third-annual Bandon Crab Fest, taking place on the second weekend of March 2024.
This delightful event will feature a scrumptious dinner accompanied by live music and dancing. We have invited some of Bandon’s most beloved musicians to entertain you throughout the meal. Trust us, the Annual Bandon Crab Fest is an experience you don’t want to miss!
The Bandon Crab Festival was established as a “rotating fundraiser,” with the proceeds from previous events benefiting the Bandon High Industrial Arts vocation class and the Bandon Historical Museum. In 2024, we proudly announce that the Bandon and Pacific Booster Clubs will be the beneficiaries of this year’s festivities.
Join us for a shell of a good time at the Crab Fest Fundraiser!
Emergency Volunteer Corps of Nehalem Bay North County News
Our GoBag Pop-Up Shop is back by popular demand after a seasonal break. Get a complete GoBag or choose individual items.
https://evcnb.org/events-and-training/gobag-popup-03092024Last change to order your fully stocked and ready GoBag or individual GoBag supplies .Pick up is this weekend, Saturday, March 9, from 1-1:30 PM at the Manzanita Police Station.
Learn important communication skills necessary during an emergency. You’ll be able to use your Yellow Radio to keep in touch with neighbors and support services.
Register now! https://evcnb.org/events-and-training/yellow-radio-03162024 —- https://evcnb.org/yellow-radio
Forest Service Seeks Concessionaire For Devils Churn Day Use Site
The Siuslaw National Forest is soliciting proposals for a business opportunity at the Devils Churn Day Use Site within the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area. A 100-square-foot concession space is available within a Forest Service building, and the agency is seeking a food and beverage service provider to operate this facility. Devils Churn is a popular year-round day use area and trailhead along U.S. Highway 101 just south of Yachats, Oregon.
The Forest Service has released a prospectus to advertise the opportunity and explain the application process. Interested parties are encouraged to review the prospectus and accompanying appendices. The application period opens on January 30, 2024. Applications must be received by 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 3. Please read the instructions carefully before submitting an application.
One successful applicant will be chosen. The successful applicant will be issued a 5-year special use permit to conduct business in the concession space. MORE INFO: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/siuslaw/home/?cid=fseprd1162886
Quarterly Coffee with a Deputy – Waldport
Lincoln Co. Sheriff’s Office
More about these quarterly events:
Every three months our office will partner with a local coffee shop in Lincoln County to provide a time, space, and coffee for community members to meet our team and share what’s on their minds. Coffee with a cop events are a friendly and relaxed way for communities to connect with the deputies that serve them.
These events offer a unique opportunity for community members to directly engage with law enforcement, ask questions, voice concerns, and build positive relationships. Whether you’re a regular coffee drinker or simply curious about the work of law enforcement, this is a chance to connect with deputies on a personal level, learn about each other’s experiences, and share local feedback.
The City of Reedsport is Seeking a City Attorney
A City release said they are inviting proposals for contracted attorney service. For a list of duties and services required, go to the city’s website: www.cityofreedsport.org. Proposals are due to the city recorder’s office by 4:00 p.m. this Friday. Call 541-271-3603 for more information.
Florence Area Chamber of Commerce Drawing to Promote Tourism
The Florence Area Chamber of Commerce is consistently working on building the tourism traffic to Florence. The latest is a drawing for a two-night stay at the Driftwood Shores Conference Center and Resort.
The drawing is open to the public. Chamber President and CEO Betting Hannigan says the drawing comes with the two-night stay and a $50 certificate to the resort Market and Dine-in Deli.
You can register by using the qr code the link posted below. https://bit.ly/2NightsinFlorence
Florence Café 60 Senior Meals Program Reopens for Dine-In Meals
Lane Council of Government’s Senior Meals Program is reopening its Café 60 location in Florence after being closed for the past three years.
LCOG officials said that during the closure, LCOG’s Senior and Disability Services division offered grab-and-go meals but the reopening of Café 60 will provide a dine-in location for seniors who might otherwise go hungry. The Florence location will reopen on December 4 and operate three days a week at 11:15 a.m. on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at the Florence Senior Center located at 1570 Kingwood Street, LCOG officials said.
Organizers said that interested seniors should make reservations at least a week in advance by calling ahead at 541-997-5673 or filling out a reservation menu at the Café 60 location. The program is open at no cost to seniors 60 years of age or over and those not 60 years or older are welcome to join by paying the meal cost of $8, program organizers said. Donations are welcomed to support the program’s continued operation in the community, LCOG officials said.
Volunteers are also sought to help with the program and those who would like to participate may call 541-682-1366. More program information is also available here: https://www.lcog.org/sdslane/page/florence-caf%C3%A9-60-reopens-dine-meals
Oregon Lottery Highlights March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month
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Oregon Lottery is putting a focus on increasing awareness of problem gambling during March – also known as National Problem Gambling Awareness Month.
Nationwide, Problem Gambling Awareness Month is a grassroots effort that brings together public health organizations, advocacy groups, and gambling operators, who work collaboratively to let people know options are available to quit or cut down on gambling. All Oregonians have access to free counseling and resources, which can be found on the Oregon Problem Gambling Resource (OPGR) website. In addition, people thinking about taking a break or moderating can find options for changing their relationship with gambling in way that works for them.
Historically, the number of people seeking assistance increases during March due to focused marketing and outreach efforts around gambling.
“Across Oregon, during Problem Gambling Awareness Month, and throughout the year, the Oregon Council on Problem Gambling (OCPG) is committed to raising public awareness about safer gambling practices and providing resources to get help when someone has a problem,” said Executive Director of OCPG Gina Parziale.
Over the past few years, stress, isolation, and financial uncertainty may have caused some to turn to gambling. In 2023, 2,765 calls were made to the help line and 200 chats and texts came in for assistance.
“We want Oregonians to know there are a variety of tools and resources available for players who want to make any type of change to their gambling,” said Oregon Lottery’s Senior Manager of Product Marketing Stacy Shaw, who also serves on the OCPG board. “It’s important to support people at all points in their journey – whether they are seeking safer play strategies, looking to cut down, or seeking counselling to stop gambling.”
Since 1992, one percent of Oregon Lottery profits have funded problem gambling treatment and prevention efforts throughout Oregon. Since that time, over $137 million in Lottery funds has supported those services.
To explore online tools and other resources or to chat with a counselor, go to Oregon Problem Gambling Resource at opgr.org or call 1-877-MYLIMIT. Professional help is free, confidential, and effective.
About the Oregon Council on Problem Gambling — The Oregon Council on Problem Gambling is the state affiliate to the National Council on Problem Gambling. Its purpose is to promote the health of Oregonians by supporting efforts to minimize gambling related harm. Board members include individuals from the gaming industry, the treatment and prevention field, the recovery community and state and county administrators.
PacifiCorp Ordered To Pay Oregon Wildfire Victims Another $42M
A jury in Oregon has ordered PacifiCorp to pay more than $42 million to 10 victims of devastating wildfires on Labor Day 2020 — the latest verdict in litigation that is expected to see the electric utility on the hook for billions in damages.
Last June, a jury found PacifiCorp liable for negligently failing to cut power to its 600,000 customers despite warnings from top fire officials. The jury determined it acted negligently and willfully and should have to pay punitive and other damages — a decision that applied to a class including the owners of up to 2,500 properties.
Tuesday’s decision was the third verdict applying last year’s ruling to a specific set of plaintiffs. Last month, a jury awarded $85 million to a different set of nine plaintiffs, and the jury that initially found PacifiCorp liable awarded about $90 million to 17 homeowners named as plaintiffs in that case.
Thousands of other class members are still awaiting trials, though the sides are also expected to engage in mediation that could lead to a settlement.
PacifiCorp, a unit of Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway, is appealing. The utility said in an email Tuesday it has settled hundreds of claims relating to the fires and “remains committed to settling all reasonable claims for actual damages under Oregon law.”
“For utilities, there is an ominous risk in making future investments in regions where they become the de facto insurers of last resort in a more frequent extreme weather environment,” the statement said.
The fires were among the worst natural disasters in Oregon’s history, killing nine people, burning more than 1,875 square miles (4,856 square kilometers) and destroying upward of 5,000 homes and other structures.
Among those covered by Tuesday’s award is the Upward Bound Camp for Persons with Special Needs in Gates, Oregon, plaintiffs attorneys said in a news release Tuesday. The camp’s executive director testified that a fire began on its property after a power line fell. It destroyed the only indoor spaces that can accommodate campers, leaving the nonprofit organization unable to hold camps during the winter, spring and fall.
The U.S. government is also threatening to sue PacifiCorp to recover nearly $1 billion in costs related to the 2020 wildfires in southern Oregon and northern California, though the company is trying to negotiate a settlement.
Omaha, Nebraska-based Berkshire Hathaway estimates that its utilities face at least $8 billion in claims across all the wildfire lawsuits already filed in Oregon and California, although the damages could be doubled or even tripled in some of those cases and some of the lawsuits don’t list a dollar amount. (SOURCE)
Near record-breaking levels of visitation at Oregon State Parks in 2023
SALEM, Oregon— Oregon State Parks continued to experience near record-breaking levels of both day use and camping in 2023.
It was the second busiest year for day-use visits with an estimated at 52.2 million visits, just behind the historic record of 53 million in 2021. It was the fourth busiest camping year with 2.9 million camper nights, which is slightly less than the record high of 3 million in 2021.
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Parks with the largest increases in day-use visits include Beachside State Recreation Site, Ecola State Park, Harris Beach State Recreation Area (most visited in the state), Oswald West State Park, Maud Williamson State Recreation Site, Lewis and Clark State Recreation Site, Clyde Holiday State Recreation Site and Farewell Bend State Recreation Site.
Camping was slightly down overall due in part to closures at two popular campgrounds, Beverly Beach State Park and Bullards Beach State Park, which were closed starting in the fall for construction projects. The valley and mountain region saw a slight increase in camping, however, with some of the largest increases at Detroit Lake State Park, Milo McIver State Park, Prineville Reservoir State Park and Lake Owyhee State Park.
Sustained higher visitation underscores the need for rangers and support staff statewide. Last month, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) started its 2024 seasonal recruitment to hire 250 seasonal rangers and ranger assistants with the goal of filling all those roles this year.
Rangers and support staff work hard to keep the parks clean and safe while providing educational and recreational opportunities. Visitors can also help at their favorite parks by following park rules, leaving no trace and thanking a ranger when they can. They might also consider visiting some of the hidden gems in the park system to find a new favorite place to explore.
Parks with some of the lowest visitation include Catherine Creek State Park, Bates State Park, Jackson F Kimball State Recreation Site, Unity Lake State Park, Cottonwood Canyon State Park, Clay Myers State Natural Area at Whalen Island and Golden and Silver Falls State Natural Area.
The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department continues with its GO Bonds projects totaling $50 million in improvements to aging infrastructure and to protect Oregon’s resources with projects at nine parks. The work will also add visitor facilities and expand camping at several parks including Silver Falls and Champoeg by 2026. The improvements were funded by general obligation bonds approved by the Oregon Legislature in 2021.
“We are incredibly grateful to our visitors, volunteers, partners and to all those who cherish and support Oregon State Parks. We could not steward these outstanding natural, scenic, cultural, historic and recreational sites without your support,” said OPRD Director Lisa Sumption.
The overnight camping figure is derived by taking the total number occupied sites and applying a multiplier to estimate the number of camper nights. The day-use figure is derived by taking car counts and applying a multiplier to estimate the number of visits. Car counters sometimes require maintenance and replacement, which can impact individual numbers. The overall results are OPRD’s best estimate for tracking trends over time.
Crater Lake Concessions Contract Being Transferred to New Company
Hospitality company ExplorUS intends to take over the concessions contract at Crater Lake National Park, the National Park Service said in a news release today. This comes after controversy with the current concessionaire, Crater Lake Hospitality LLC — a subsidiary of Aramark.
“ExplorUS says they are optimistic they will be able to transition all current Crater Lake Hospitality employees to their company and provide a full suite of visitor services at Crater Lake National Park this summer,” NPS said in a news release. “ExplorUS says they intend to honor all reservations and deposits for future stays and services.”
The transfer is not official yet, the release said, since NPS has not officially approved it.
“NPS prior written approval is required before Crater Lake Hospitality may assign or otherwise transfer its concession contract to ExplorUS. This process will take a few weeks, so we do not have any details to share at this time,” the release said. “Director Chuck Sams has been committed to ensuring no lapse in visitor services, and appreciates the efforts of all involved in working toward this.”
—– Crater Lake Is One of The Most Instagram Tagged Lakes In The Country
Oregon’s Crater Lake is one of the most photogenic lakes in the United States. Crater Lake was ranked No. 9 in the country on the list on the most-Instragrammed U.S. lakes, put out by a website called FishinAquarium.com.
FishinAquarium.com is at least water-related, unlike the many unrelated rankings we’ve seen recently from lawn care companies and online casinos. Crater Lake has been tagged on Instagram more than 425k times, according to the ranking.
Here’s what the list had to say about Crater Lake:
“Crater Lake is formed from a collapsed volcano. It sits inside Crater Lake National Park and is known for its clear, blue water. No rivers flow into or out of the lake, which is the deepest in the U.S. and one of the most pristine in the world. Famous the world over for its beauty, a visit to the former peak of the volcano that now forms Wizard Island in the center of the lake is something on many people’s bucket lists.”
The No. 1 most Instagrammed lake? Lake Tahoe in California, which was tagged more than 3 million times.
Minnie B. Miller, the “professional aquarist” who runs the website than compiled the ranking said in a news release that “all twenty of these popular lakes are worth visiting.”
Crater Lake National Park, it should be noted, has been in the news recently for other — less light-hearted — reasons as well. The National Park Service is in a serious dispute with hospitality vendor Aramark. The federal government has threatened to end Aramark’s contract over “serious concerns” and systemic issues with that company’s oversight of park concessions and amenities.
Oregon’s Nonfarm Payroll Employment Drops by 4,900 in January
In January, Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment dropped by 4,900 jobs, following a revised gain of 1,900 jobs in December. January’s losses were largest in professional and business services (-1,700 jobs); leisure and hospitality (-1,600); other services (-1,400), transportation, warehousing, and utilities (-1,200); and construction (-600). Gains in January were largest in health care and social assistance (+1,100 jobs) and manufacturing (+500).
Over the most recent 12 months, jobs edged lower. Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment dropped by 4,900 jobs, or -0.2%, between January 2023 and January 2024. The private sector cut 15,200 jobs, or -0.9%, over the most recent 12-month period. Job losses in four major industries stood out, each down by between 3,700 and 9,500 jobs. These industries are information; professional and business services; manufacturing; and retail trade. Five other major industries had smaller losses, between 700 and 2,200 jobs. In contrast, health care and social assistance is up 13,400 jobs, or 4.8%, while government is up 10,300 jobs, or 3.4%, in the 12 months through January.
Annual revisions indicate less robust construction employment than originally estimated. Construction employed 116,700 in January, which was close to its headcount during each of the past 18 months. Professional and business services was also revised lower, showing that the industry contracted by 9,500 jobs, or -3.6%, in the most recent 12 months. Over-the-year job declines occurred in each of this major industry’s three components: administrative and waste services (-5,800 jobs); professional and technical services (-3,000); and management of companies and enterprises (-700).
While Oregon’s job growth has been close to flat in the 12 months ending in January, with a decline of 0.2%, at the national level U.S. jobs grew by 1.9% and rose in every month of that period.
Oregon’s unemployment rate was 4.1% in January and 4.0% in December. It has remained in a tight range between 3.4% and 4.2% for more than two years, back to October 2021. The U.S. unemployment rate was 3.7% in both December and January.
Oregon introduces new climate-related resources for some OHP members experiencing life transitions, health needs
SALEM, Ore. – Oregon Health Plan (OHP) members with a medical need and who are facing certain life changes may now qualify for new climate-related benefits.
Eligible OHP members may qualify for a new benefit to receive devices that provide healthy temperatures and clean air such as air conditioners, heaters and air filters, as well as mini refrigeration units for storing medications. Portable power supplies to operate medical equipment (i.e., ventilators during power outages) may also be available as a new benefit.
The state is first extending eligibility for climate devices to people who are experiencing life transitions and often face social injustices. This includes people who are: currently or previously involved in the child welfare system; homeless or at risk of becoming homeless; transitioning to dual eligibility for Medicare and Medicaid; adults and youth recently discharged from Institutions for Mental Disease (IMDs) or released from incarceration within the last year. Members must not live in a group setting or shelter and need to have access to consistent and safe power to use these devices. Climate resources must also be part of a member’s health need or treatment.
The new climate-related benefits are part of Oregon’s federally funded expansion of OHP coverage to include health-related social needs (HRSN) services, which can help maintain health and well-being, but are not traditionally thought of as medical services.
“People with lower incomes and chronic conditions are among those most likely to experience heat exhaustion, heat stroke or complications of other health conditions related to extreme climate events,” said Dave Baden, deputy director of OHA. “By connecting wrap-around health benefits to traditional Medicaid coverage, Oregon is recognizing that non-medical factors influence health outcomes. Access to these services will reduce health disparities and offer life-saving resources to people in Oregon.”
OHP members interested in receiving climate devices should contact their coordinated care organization (CCO) to learn more. If an OHP member is not sure which CCO they are in, they can call the OHA Client Services Unit at 1-800-273-0557. OHP members with Open Card coverage who want to learn more can call 1-888-834-4304 or email HRSN@kepro.com“>ORHRSN@kepro.com.
OHP members who don’t qualify for climate devices via HRSN services can still contact their CCO to see if climate supports are available through “flexible services” (also called health related services). Open Card OHP members who don’t qualify for climate devices can check with their city or county to learn about local programs providing climate devices. For non-OHP members in Oregon, some cities and counties have similar programs with limited supply of devices.
HRSN services are part of Oregon’s 2022 – 2027 1115 Medicaid waiver, which helps provide more federal funding and expanded coverage to OHP members. Medicaid waivers give states the flexibility to test new ways to deliver and pay for Medicaid benefits, with approval from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS). Oregon’s 1115 waiver includes several first-in-the-nation benefits tied to Medicaid coverage.
To learn more about OHA’s new climate-related resources, visit the web site.
Oregon State Parks recruiting about 250 seasonal park rangers and assistants for 2024
SALEM, Oregon— Oregon State Parks is not just a beautiful place to visit – it’s also a spectacular place to work.
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is recruiting 250 seasonal park rangers and assistants for positions across the state that range anywhere from four to nine months. The peak season is from April to September, but some of the positions start as early as March and run as late as December.
Seasonal staff help visitors access world-class experiences and ensure clean and safe park areas for everyone to enjoy. Duties include janitorial work, landscape maintenance, visitor education and visitor services.
Salaries start at $17.34 per hour for seasonal assistants and $20.06 for seasonal rangers. Both positions include comprehensive medical, vision and dental plans for employees and qualified family members. The positions also include paid sick leave, vacation, personal leave and 11 paid holidays per year. Student workers, ages 16 and older, start at $17.32 or more per hour depending on experience (no benefits).
OPRD promotes from within and several of our top leaders started as seasonal employees.
“We love what we do at Oregon Parks and Recreation Department,” said Director Lisa Sumption. “We get to preserve and share some of Oregon’s most treasured landscapes and resources. Whether you’re here for a season or your entire career, you’re part of that OPRD family.”
For more information about current openings, visit stateparks.oregon.gov. If you have any questions or need additional assistance in accessibility or alternative formats, please email Oregon Parks and Recreation Department Recruiting D.Recruiting@oprd.oregon.gov“>OPRD.Recruiting@oprd.oregon.gov.
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, committed to diversity and pay equity.
FBI-Portland Offers Sextortion Prevention Tips
FBI-Portland is ramping up efforts to prevent child sextortion, after seeing a massive increase in sextortion in recent years. “From out to Prineville, to Bend, to Medford to Eugene and here in Portland, to the coast. It is happening everywhere,” Supervisory Special Agent Travis Ostrem told parents during a Wednesday webinar.
The crime involving explicit images of children boils down to blackmail and there are two forms: Financial and Traditional. “Financial sextortion, where the predators are looking for monetary gain from the children, to stop them from sending images. We’ve also sextortion, which is the typical child exploitation of sexual images, where they’re asking for additional images.”
He urges parents to start talking with kids early about the dangers of sending any photos online. Predators target victims as young as 11. He also suggested parents monitor the apps children are using, set parental controls and know who kids are talking to online, “Technology is growing faster than we can control it. But you all can get ahead of it. Look out for your children.”
A similar webinar was offered last week to school administrators. “We’re trying to be proactive because we don’t want any more of these cases. If we can eliminate it, just like getting drugs out of the schools from our kids, eliminate sextortion,” said Ostrem. “Sextortion is on a massive rise. We’re seeing it throughout, not just the country but in Oregon too. In every portion of the state, if there is some type of wifi or cellular connection to the internet, children can be sextorted.” He notes Oregon cases have increased by 20%, and at least 20 resulted in the victim taking their own life. “One suicide is too many. One child being sextorted is too many. The damage that can do to mental health is horrible. What we see normally is one predator will target up to a hundred victims.”
FBI-Portland hosted a chat on X – formerly Twitter – Thursday at noon to answer more questions about protecting kids from sextortion. (SOURCE)
Oregon Blue Book Cover Photo Contest Underway
The front cover of the 2023-2024 Oregon Blue Book showcases a hillside covered in beautiful balsam root and lupine flowers at Rowena Crest, captured by Oregon photographer Micah Lundsted of Eugene. The book’s back cover shows an image of three rockfish made at the Oregon Coast Aquarium by Dale George of Grants Pass.
Which images will cover the 2025-2026 Oregon Blue Book? The Oregon Blue Book cover photo contest kicks off today, giving amateur photographers the chance to submit their photos to answer that question. Photo contest winners will be selected in October 2024 by Secretary of State LaVonne Griffin-Valade.
“Choosing the cover photos for the Oregon Blue Book is an honor,” said Secretary Griffin-Valade. “The images are a chance to see our beautiful state through the lens of the many talented amateur photographers who live in Oregon.”
The contest is open to Oregon residents of any age who earn less than half their income from photography. Images must be Oregon related and should be submitted in the portrait, rather than landscape, orientation. Two images will be selected for the cover: one for the front and one for the back. Visit the Oregon Blue Book Photo Contest guidelines for more information: https://sos.oregon.gov/blue-book/Pages/about-conte…
Images can be submitted through the Oregon Blue Book website portal or via U.S. mail. The deadline to submit photos for consideration is October 27, 2024. Contact the Oregon Blue Book Managing Editor at Oregon.Bluebook@sos.oregon.gov with questions or for additional information.
DETAILS
What: 2025-2026 Oregon Blue Book Cover Photo Contest
Who: Amateur photographers who live in Oregon
When: February 7, 2024-October 27, 2024
Where: Submit online or through U.S. Mail
Why: Photo on the cover of the 2025-2026 Oregon Blue Book
ODFW Announces Stamp Art Competitions
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is making a call to area artists to compete in one, or all three, of ODFW’s 2025 stamp art competitions.
The winning artist in each contest receives a $2,000 award and their winning artwork is used to produce collector’s stamps and other promotional items, sales of which benefit Oregon’s fish, wildlife, and their habitats.
For more information on contest rules and to order stamps and art prints, visit: https://www.dfw.state.or.us/stamp_contest/index.asp.
Entries will be accepted beginning Aug. 30 through Sept. 27 by 5 p.m., at the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife headquarters, 4034 Fairview Industrial Dr., SE, Salem, OR 97302.
Entries can be mailed or hand delivered. If you hand-deliver your entry, call ahead to make arrangements at 503-947-6314.
Here’s a look at the three categories:
Habitat Conservation Stamp
Art entries must feature a “Strategy Species” identified in the Oregon Conservation Strategy in its appropriate habitat. Not all species in the strategy are eligible, so use the qualifying list of species.
See contest rules and entry form for more information and a list of eligible species at
https://www.dfw.state.or.us/conservationstrategy/habitat_conservation_stamp.asp.
Waterfowl Stamp Contest
Art entries must feature one of the following species in its natural habitat setting: Ring-necked Duck, White-winged Scoter, or Barrow’s Goldeneye.
See contest rules and entry form for more information at
https://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/hunting/waterfowl/contest/index.asp.
Upland Game Bird Stamp Contest
Art entries must feature California Quail in its natural habitat setting.
See contest rules and entry form for more information at https://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/hunting/upland_bird/contest/index.asp
Artists should not the highlighted new for 2025 information in the contest rules and the final page for packaging tips.
A panel will judge artwork based on artistic composition, anatomical accuracy of the species and general appeal.
Collector’s stamps, art prints and other promotional materials are produced from first-place artwork. Proceeds from product sales are used for habitat improvement, research surveys and conservation projects.
Interested artists are encouraged to visit ODFW’s stamp art competition website for more information on the contests and to view entries from previous years. https://www.dfw.state.or.us/stamp_contest/index.asp
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.
Contact us: Info@OregonBeachMagazine.com