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NB School District sends bond to voters By DAVID RUPKALVIS The World

NORTH BEND - The North Bend School District will be asking voters to approve a $48 million bond in November. Earlier this month, the school board voted to send the bond issue to voters. The money would make improvements to all four schools in the district. Superintendent Kevin Bogatin said the district had a long-range facility plan done in 2019 that showed $120 million in needs.

That plan was taken to a bond development committee that met several times over the last year, took public input and came up with the $48.3 million bond plan. “That addresses needs at all four buildings, all four schools, and addresses all students K-12,” Bogatin said. “The biggest issues the bond will address is health, safety and security, modernizing our aging facilities and hands-on learning.” Bogatin explained the three areas and what the funding would Please see DISTRICT, Page A3

Photo by David Rupkalvis/The World

Hillcrest Elementary School is the oldest school in the North Bend School District and has a lot of needs. If voters approve a bond, the school will get safety and health upgrades, two classrooms renovated for pre-K classes, a new gym and more.

Moving to revitalize downtown region

New death reported as COVID surges By DAVID RUPKALVIS The World

Photos by David Rupkalvis/The World

Coos County Commissioner Melissa Cribbins, left, and North Bend Urban Renewal Agency Chair Jessica Engelke discuss North Bend’s purchase of the old county annex in downtown North Bend. The city is planning to turn the former hospital into a mixed-use development with housing and commercial locations. Below, the hospital was built in 1923 and will be torn down to allow a new building to be constructed.

North Bend purchases old hospital to add housing, retail downtown By DAVID RUPKALVIS The World

NORTH BEND - The North Bend Urban Renewal Agency purchased the old county courthouse downtown last week with the goal of revitalizing the downtown district. The North Bend Urban Renewal Agency, which is made up of the city council members, agreed to spend $125,000 on the old courthouse and two smaller lots around it. Mayor Jessica Engelke, who serves as chair of the Urban Renewal Agency, said the city is planning to tear down the three old buildings to allow for new construction in downtown. “The URA’s goal is to demolish the blighted building and create

a mixed-use project that will add housing units, enhance retail and commercial activity, and inspire additional investment in North Bend’s central downtown business district,” Engelke said. “North Bend has a housing crisis that the pandemic has only compounded. This project will help put a dent in North Bend’s affordability problem while returning the property to the tax rolls.” Engelke said ultimately the city hopes to see the former hospital torn down with a new mixed-use development built it its place. “One of the things the council was really interested in was redeveloping this to be a mixed-use space,” Engelke said. “The Urban Renewal Please see Revitalize, Page A12

North Bend council debates camping ordinance Councilors consider shrinking area available for homeless to camp By DAVID RUPKALVIS The World

NORTH BEND - The North Bend City Council discussed implementing an ordinance that would allow the homeless to camp in limited portions of the city. On Monday, the council met in a work session and heard details about the proposed ordinance for the first time. If enacted, the ordinance would be similar to one passed in Coos Bay recently. Both ordinances ban homeless camping on public lands in residential neighborhoods but allow it in many commercial areas. As the discussion started, Mayor Jessica Engelke had a simple question.

“As it stands right now, if we don’t do anything, is camping legal anywhere on public lands,” she asked. “Not only public lands, but also public right of ways,” answered Public Works Director Ralph Dunham. “The focus of this ordinance is trying to limit the area so we can maintain it and police it. Right now, they can do it in residential districts, commercial districts, any zoning district in the city.” Dunham explained since camping is also allowed in rights of way, if the city does not act, homeless can put up tents and camp in residential front yards, since the city owns rights of way eight to 12 feet into most yards.

He told the council the need for an ordinance came after a federal court ruled cities cannot ban homeless camping unless there is sufficient places available to house them. In response, the state of Oregon passed a law allowing camping on public lands, but giving cities the authority to control the time, manner and place camping is allowed. In its ordinance, North Bend restricted camping on Highway 101, some areas of downtown, on the waterfront east of 101, in all city parks and in residential areas. It allowed camping on public streets in most commercial areas. “If we do nothing, then every public place in the city is open for camping,” Dunham said.

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“Right now under state law, they can park an RV in front of your house and they can even pop a tent in your front yard in the right of way.” Dunham told the council choosing where to allow camping is a tough decision, but it is one the council will have to make. State law only says the city must provide a “reasonable” amount of space for camping. The proposed ordinance would provide around 40 acres that could be camped on, between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. “Nobody wants them in their backyard or in front of their business,” Dunham said. “The

A 41st Coos County resident has died after contracting COVID-19 as the virus continues another surge in the county. On Friday, the state announced 50 new cases were confirmed, making 383 active cases in Coos County. As of Friday morning, 12 people were hospitalized with the virus. Dr. Eric Gleason, assistant director of Coos Health & Wellness, said the numbers being reported are similar to what the county saw at the height of the pandemic last year. Gleason said the 41st death was a man in his 70s. Gleason said the increase in cases can be tied to people not wearing masks and not enough people getting vaccinated. “It’s a tale as old as time,” Gleason said. “We have people in the community who weren’t wearing masks and the vaccine rate is 60.2%. Until people figure out masks do work, and vaccines do work, we’re going to see more cases.” On Thursday, the state reported 2,387 new COVID cases statewide with nine new deaths. Along with Coos County’s 55 new cases, Curry County had 25 and Douglas County reported 137. A new mask mandate requiring people to wear masks indoors while at businesses went into effect Friday, and Gleason said Gov. Kate Brown had no choice but to issue the mandate. “You can wear your mask, it’s effective,” Gleason said. “Double masking is even more effective. When we pulled the mask mandate, the numbers went up. So masks are effective. The mask mandate is something that needed to happen if you’re paying attention.” Gleason said while the two most recent COVID deaths were in older patients, the area is seeing a change in those most impacted by the virus. “We’re seeing a lot of younger people,” Gleason said. “It is pretty scary. Again, it’s primarily the unvaccinated population. Around 88% of the cases we’re seeing are unvaccinated.” Gleason said there have been breakthrough cases in the county, where people who are fully vaccinated catch the virus. However, those cases are not the biggest problem. “Even the people who have the vaccine and get infected, a fraction of them are getting hospitalized and are dying,” Gleason said. “We’re not seeing major kickback from people who got the vaccine. This is safe and effective. The science shows the masks and vaccines work.”

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Community Calendar of Events

A2  |  TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2021

What: Coos Bay Farmers Market When: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. every Wednesday Where: Central Avenue, downtown Coos Bay You Should Know: Dozens of vendors will sell a variety of wares ranging from fresh produce and plants to homemade soaps and clothes. Food trucks and other food items will also be available. The farmers market runs through October 27.

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Budget When: Noon-1 p.m., August 25. Where: Virtually via Zoom. Register at https://is.gd/gpEMWe You Should Know: Coos Bay Public Library will co-host the class with Natural Grocers’ Nutritional Health Coach Cheryl O’Dell, MSN. Discover the importance of getting off the blood sugar roller coaster using high-quality proteins, fats and carbohydrates to build healthy and delicious meals.

What: Bandon Dunes job fair When: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., August 18 Where: Macdonald Hall, upstairs at McKee’s Pub You Should Know: Bandon Dunes will be hosting a job fair with on-thespot interviews and hiring opportunities. During the event, lunch will be served and there will be opportunities to win prizes. Bandon Dunes is hiring many positions. To apply in advance, visit www.BandonDunesGolf.com/careers. What: ASL practice When: Noon, August 19 Where: Virtually via Zoom. Register for this event at https://is.gd/daR3SI You Should Know: Kandy Bergquist will lead the practice. She teaches American Sign Language and Signed English at Southwestern Oregon Community College. She has worked with the deaf and hard of hearing as an interpreter, classroom aid and speech pathologist. What: Bay Area Artists Association meeting When: 6 p.m., August 19 Where: Coos Art Museum You Should Know: Local artists are invited to join in as Victoria Tierney, artist/writer/photographer/curator, leads a discussion about the role of artists in a post-COVID world. What: Coos County Airport District board meeting When: 7:30 a.m., August 19 Where: Boardroom at Southwest Oregon Regional Airport You Should Know: Commissioners will discuss airport policies, leases and pending projects.

What: Lawn games in the park When: 1-3 p.m., August 25 and 27 Where: Mingus Park on August 25 and Sunset Middle School on August 27 You Should Know: Enjoy lawn games from the Library of Things from the Coos Bay Public Library. Ring toss, corn hole, croquet and other lawn games will be available for play. All ages welcome.

Introduction to crabbing

When: Noon, August 20 Where: Meet at the Charleston Visitors Center, 91141 Cape Arago Highway You Should Know: Visitors are invited to learn about the amazing life cycle of crabs, their importance to the local economy and discover the various techniques for capturing this delectable crustacean. Attendees are encouraged to dress for the weather. Registered participants will meet at the Charleston Visitors Center. Registration is required, and the event is limited to six participants. Information: To register, visit www.oregon.gov/dsl/SS/Pages/CommunityClassReg. aspx What: Open house and BBQ When: 11 a.m., August 22 Where: Bay Area Bible Church, 2590 14th St., North Bend You Should Know: The open house will feature a family friendly message by Pastor Ray McCormick followed with free food for all. The kids will have fun in a bounce house and water dump tank. Information: Call 541-756-6707 What: Auditions at So it Goes Coffeehouse When: 6:30 p.m., August 23 and August 24 Where: So it Goes Coffeehouse, 190 Central Coos Bay You Should Know: Open auditions

will be held for The Breakfast Club of the Living Dead, an original satire written be John Beane. All roles are open. They are looking for comic ability and will consider any gender/age/ethnicity. Actors are paid. What: Reedsport Planning Commission Public Hearing When: 6 p.m., August 24 Where: City Hall conference room, 451 Winchester Avenue You Should Know: The commission will host a public hearing to consider an application by Reedsport Properties NV to partition a 17-acre parcel at Masters Way and North 20th Street into three lots. What: Building Healthy Meals on a

What: Taking Care of Business XII When: 5 p.m., August 26 Where: North Bend Lanes and Back Alley Pub and Grill You Should Know: Bay Area Chamber of Commerce will host its 12th business networking event with a night of food, fun and bowling. Sign up online: https://placefull.com/taking-care-of-business-xii. What: Community Cooking with the Co-op When: 5:30 p.m., August 26 Where: Virtually via Zoom. Register at https://is.gd/va3Wd9 You Should Know: Coos Bay Library has teamed up with Coos Head Food Co-op’s Outreach Coordinator, Jamar, to provide safe, easy, and healthy recipes to create at home. What: Backpack Giveaway When: 9 a.m.-noon, August 28 Where: Parking lot at Pony Village Mall You Should Know: Coos Elderly Services and Connections Community Church will be giving away 4,000 backpacks full of school supplies. This will be a drive-up event and students must be present.

Overnight camping, some recreational activities restricted in Elliott State Forest due to wildfire danger The Department of State Lands and Oregon Department of Forestry on Thursday announced restrictions to some recreational activities in the Elliott State Forest, amid high wildfire risk. Conditions in the area

are unseasonably hot and dry with little humidity, which can cause significant spread of new and existing fires. Certain recreational activities can create sparks that lead to wildfires, a risk that has heightened due to prolonged drought and heat in the area.

The following activities are prohibited in the Elliott State Forest until further notice: Overnight camping Use of firearms Campfires & wood cutting Motor vehicle travel on certain roads Vehicles may continue

to access the Elliott using certain maintained roads. Multiple wildfires are burning across the Pacific Northwest, straining firefighting resources and increasing the need for preventative action to protect public safety and forest health.

The World

Camping From A1

problem is once we adopt camping ordinances, we have to be able to police it. So it behooves us to congregate.” Dunham said if the city used the housing code that requires 200 square feet for each person, it could restrict the size of land being allowed for camping to between five and eight acres. But if it restricts too much, he said, courts could rule the city did not allow “reasonable” space. As the council listened, many expressed frustration with the requirements. “It feels like our local authority is being taken away,” Engelke said. The space listed as allowed includes commercial areas along Newmark Street and Broadway Avenue, two of the busiest streets in the city. Dunham said parking is not an option in those areas, but people could camp in the right of way just off the street. “Conceivably, this could be dialed down,” Dunham said. “In my opinion, we’re going to have to concentrate them. If we’re going to police it, we can’t have someone going down every street.” But even if the area is

District From A1

allow the district to do. Health, Safety and Security “It’s putting in safety accords in our buildings,” Bogatin said. “Right now, you can just walk into the front doors of our buildings and down the hallway you go. We want a barrier between someone entering the building and someone being in your kids’ classroom.” Bogatin said each school would add either a vestibule that would require a stop at the office before entering the main school or something similar. The goal is to let school officials control who enters the building. Other issues that would be added at each school would include installing systems that allow each school to be locked down quickly, communication systems in each school and expanded nurse stations. Bogatin said one lesson the district learned from COVID is sick students need to be able to get to the nurse stations without going through the main office, and there needs to be space to allow students to quarantine before their parents arrive to pick them up. Modernize and Update the Buildings Bogatin said all four schools in the district are old and need repairs. “The average age is 59 years old, Hillcrest is 70 years old,” he said. As a result, the buildings are showing their age and need some upgrades. At each school that includes new windows, floors, roofs and updating spaces for technological needs. It also means improving air quality in every school. “If you go out to North Bay, the HVAC systems

concentrated, Police Chief Robert Kappelman said policing would likely not happen. “In terms of enforcement, this is not going to be a high priority,” Kappelman said. “We are answering life-saving events right now. We get to other stuff if we can, when we can. As you craft this, you should craft it with the idea we’re not going to have proactive enforcement of this. There will be some that follow the rules, there will be a lot more that don’t follow the rules.” Dunham said ultimately the city council will have to decide where to allow camping. He warned if the council started removing too many places where it is allowed in the ordinance, it will likely have to add other places back in. “The bottom line is we can set some standards,” Dunham said. “What I don’t want to do, in fairness to everyone, is say we’re going to put it at the airport or we’re putting at Pony Village. We’re going to need at least three locations. Nobody’s going to want it in their backyard.” Much of the public land at the airport is currently included in the areas allowed for camping, but some of that will likely change. One area is land that will be turned into an airport apron in the near future, and will

be gated off from the public. City Attorney Jane Stebbins said the city might need to negotiate with the airport to find locations suitable to both. Stebbins urged the council to use the public sessions, during council meetings, to recommend changes. She also urged the council to find legitimate reasons for recommending changes, if they do so. “People are going to challenge this, and we want to be able to defend it,” she said. Councilor Susanna Noordhoff suggested the council change the time allowed for camping from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. That move would mirror the Coos Bay ordinance and would benefit homeless families, she explained. Councilor Timm Slater urged the council to look over the proposal and come back with suggested changes. “I think the next step on this one is to go home and do our homework,” Slater said. “We get input, whether we like it or not. I don’t think we should be finished at this point.” Engelke also pointed out the proposed ordinance and map associated with it was just that, a proposal. “This is just a discussion,” the mayor said. “These maps are not final, they are just drafts.”

are the original systems from 1970,” he said. He said the district has made small improvements over the years, but major upgrades take more money than the district has to spend without a bond. As an example, he told the story about how a science class used bunsen burners and when they turned off the natural has supply, the burner continued to burn. That required the gas to the entire school to be turned off and led to an investigation to figure out the problem. The investigation revealed the system in the school was simply too old to work properly. Hands-on learning Bogatin said the district has made career and technical education, primarily at the high school and middle school, an emphasis. Increased funding will allow the district to expand its offerings and improve its facilities. “This district has done a great job supporting and promoting career and technical education,” Bogatin said. “We have a brand new building that’s for our construction trades program. We also have a really successful culinary program. Hundreds of kids are in the program, but during the pandemic, the space would only hold 10. A huge part of this bond would update that.” Projects at each school If approved, the bond funding would make improvements at each school in the district. Bogatin laid out some of the particulars. At Hillcrest Elementary, money would be used to renovate two classrooms for pre-K classes. The school would also get a new gym, an elevator to make the school ADA compliant along with the safety and

infrastructure upgrades. At North Bay, money would be used to renovate two classrooms for pre-K, HVAC upgrades, windows, flooring, plumbing and more. At the middle school, the money would be used primarily to upgrade the old structure such as the roof, plumbing, floors, HVAC and electrical. In addition, the science labs would be upgraded along with the vocational learning spaces. “If you walk through there, it’s just dated,” Bogatin said. “If you look at this list, you’ll think it’s falling down. It’s not quite to that point, but if we don’t pass bonds like this, I don’t know what we’ll do.” At the high school, the funding would turn the auditorium or cafeteria into a performing arts studio. There would also be upgrades to the science labs and improvements to the driveway and sidewalks. Bogatin said if the bond is approved, it would add 77 cents per $1,000 of assessed valuation to property tax bills. North Bend Mayor Jessica Engelke said she understands why the district needs funding. “I went to three of those schools,” she said. “The elementary one looks exactly like it did in 1978. I think it’s important for people to realize if you don’t take care of the things you have, you might not be able to fix it at all.” For detailed information, visit www.northbendschoolbond.org.

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Following IPCC Report, Merkley sounds the alarm on climate Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley, the chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Subcommittee on Chemical Safety, Waste Management, Environmental Justice, and Regulatory Oversight, released the following statement Mondau regarding the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s newly-released report. “Today’s IPCC report confirms what Oregonians—many of whom are preparing for another spike into the triple digits this week, and are struggling through another unprecedented wildfire season—already know. Climate chaos is here, and it’s costing lives and livelihoods. “It’s clear from this report that we aren’t doing nearly enough to tackle this emergency, and the reason is no surprise. Time and

time again, the powerful and the privileged—who care more about the bottom lines of fossil fuel companies than the health and well-being of our families and our economies—have called the shots in Congress. They’ve killed legislation that would deliver climate solutions and make our communities safer, and tried to convince the American people that addressing the climate crisis is too expensive—that this crisis can wait. They’re wrong. “With every passing day, we are speeding closer and closer to a reality where: fires like the Bootleg fire are the norm; more people die from heat-related illnesses and more powerful storms; and where the changing climate undermines the pillars of our rural economy—farming, forests, and fishing. A fail-

ure to mitigate those dire consequences would be an utter failure by Congress to represent the best interests of the American people. We can’t let that happen— and must come together immediately to put those interests ahead of fossil fuel executives’ wish lists, and transition away from the dangerous fossil fuels that got us into this mess in the first place. “But that alone won’t be enough. My hope is that this report will also translate into strong commitments from the international community at the UN Climate Change Conference in November—and that the United States steps up to do its fair share. I’m going to do all that I can to ensure that happens, while we still have a shot at avoiding the very worst of climate chaos’ impacts.”

Beachwatchers wanted for coastal observation and seabird survey team On September 11 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., the Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team will deliver a virtual training session for the residents of Oregon. COASST participants help make a difference for the environment by collecting data on beach-cast carcasses of marine birds on a monthly basis to establish the baseline pattern of beached bird mortality on North Pacific beaches. Through an interactive workshop held via Zoom, trainees will become acquainted

with COASST survey protocols, and have a chance to learn more about the seabirds that live in their area. The COASST training provides participants with the tools to monitor for potential changes in the marine environment and promote stewardship of local marine resources. Reserve your training spot by registering in advance at this link: https:// washington.zoom.us/webinar/register/ WN_u1ft903TSiS-5z0T19s6Xg.

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Pacific Power grant funds lab equipment at Southwestern Pacific Power Foundation has awarded a $5,000 grant to Southwestern Oregon Community College Foundation to help purchase high-quality microscopes in the new state-of-the-art science labs in Umpqua Hall. SWOCC Foundation added an additional $20,000 to the Science Team Energizes Micro-Biology project to purchase 24 Leica compound microscopes for students and a high-tech teaching microscope for faculty. “With a new lab, it’s important to have excellent equipment, and Leica is top of the line,” biology professor Bob Fields said. “I am excited for our students to use these excellent microscopes and integrate the newest technology in teaching.” The majority of SWOCC’s students take science classes, whether they are majoring in science fields or pursuing general associates degrees. For students starting on their pathways to medicine, dentistry, marine biology and a variety of science fields, Umpqua Hall’s new high-quality labs and specialized microscopes are essential.

“A project like this is of particular interest to Pacific Power, in part because Pacific Power’s CEO is very supportive of STEM education and science-based education,” said Sam Carter, the company’s regional business manager. “We are looking forward to seeing students returning to college and using these microscopes in the fall.” The other important aspect is the project is the science labs now have enough microscopes for two labs. It ensures every student in a class has access to a microscope of their own. Having enough equipment for individual use gives students more time to explore the microscopic world and develop their skills. Individual scopes also will help the college comply with safety guidelines during the COVID pandemic and protect students’ health. It also means instructors no longer will have scramble to move microscopes from room to room, between classes. Instructors are pleased with the teaching scope, too. It features a digital screen, allowing an instructor to enlarge and visually

Contributed Photo

Photo from left to right: Dr. Robert Fields, Biology Professor; Sam Carter, Pacific Power Regional Business Manager; Amy Burgess, Science Lab Assistant isolate specimens to help students better understand what they are looking for and the fundamentals of identification. “I can show in bigger and greater detail, ‘here’s what you’re looking for,’” Fields said. “Or, if a student finds something very interesting, particularly if we’re doing pond or water work, then I can showcase what they’ve found so other students can look.” Having the ability to cap-

ture digital images also gives instructors the ability to share more with students in online classes and adapt lessons. Purchasing equipment is the final step in the development Umpqua Hall, a $24 million project funded almost entirely by grants and community donations. Designed to inspire tomorrow’s scientists, engineers and health care professionals, Southwestern’s new science, nursing and paramedicine labs open

Monday, Sept. 13, with the start of fall term. The college has scheduled an open house for the community to tour the building and talk with faculty from 2-6 p.m., on Friday, Sept. 24. The Pacific Power Foundation is one of the largest utility-endowed foundations in the United States. The foundation was created in 1988 by PacifiCorp, an electric utility serving 1.8 million custom-

ers in six Western states as Pacific Power (Oregon, Washington and California) and Rocky Mountain Power (Utah, Wyoming and Idaho). The foundation’s mission, through charitable investments, is to support the growth and vitality of the communities served by Pacific Power and Rocky Mountain Power. For information, visit www. pacificpower.net/foundation or www.rockymountainpower.net/foundation.

Endangered frogs are hopping back home Hundreds of northern leopard frogs reared at the Oregon Zoo are hopping back into the wild this month, thanks to a collaborative effort to save one of the last remaining Northwest populations of this imperiled amphibian. The froglets, which hatched from eggs collected by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife earlier this year, spent six months growing big and strong in a protected area at the zoo before being released into the Columbia National Wildlife Refuge this summer. “They come to us as eggs, and we keep them safe and well-fed until they grow legs and can hop on their own,” said Shelly Pettit, who oversees the zoo’s frog-rearing efforts. “A big, healthy young frog has a much better chance of surviving in the wild than an egg or a tadpole.” The recovery effort is made possible by a partnership with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Washington State University and Northwest Trek Wildlife Park. Once abundant throughout North America, northern leopard frogs are rapidly disappearing from their native ranges in Washington, Oregon and western Canada. In Washington, where the zoo-reared froglets were released,

the species has been listed as endangered since 1999 and only one known population remains. “We’re at a critical point for this species,” Pettit said. “After missing the 2020 season due to COVID impacts, we were very excited to produce a healthy group of frogs for this year’s release.” Biologists attribute the frogs’ decline to a combination of threats, including habitat loss, disease, predation by introduced fish species, pollution and climate change. By head-starting them, the zoo and its conservation partners are hoping to replenish the northern leopard frog population in the region. Helping the frogs — and the wetland habitat they depend on — will benefit other species as well, conservationists say. “Northern leopard frogs are an important indicator of water quality,” said Emily Grabowsky, WDFW biologist. “If we can improve and conserve wetland habitat that is good for frogs, we will also benefit other species ranging from other amphibians to waterfowl and deer.” Funding for the northern leopard frog reintroduction is being provided through a competitive state wildlife grant awarded to WDFW from USFWS’s Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration program.

Contributed Photo

Hundreds of endangered northern leopard frogs reared at the Oregon Zoo are hopping back into the wild, thanks to a collaborative effort to save one of their last remaining Northwest populations. Photo by Michael Durham, courtesy of the Oregon Zoo.

Wyden, Merkley urge administration to combat jet fuel shortages affecting wildland firefighting U.S. Senator Ron Wyden led a bipartisan group of Western senators, including U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley, pressing the Biden administration to coordinate and develop a strategy to combat jet fuel shortages that undercut wildland firefighting as wildfires burn across the West. U.S. Sens. Alex Padilla, D-Calif., Jim Risch, R-Idaho, Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., and Patty Murray, D-Wash., joined Wyden and Merkley in sending the letter to Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. “As you are well aware, the 2020 wildfire season was one of the most destructive seasons on record; destroying thousands of

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homes, burning millions of acres, and straining communities already battling a historic pandemic. In 2021, there are already over 108 large fires burning in 15 states and the need for an aerial response to fight these fires is a critical and much-needed tool. We are concerned that fuel shortages could lead to the grounding of federal, state, and contracted aircrafts and hurt the ability for initial fire attack and further devastate communities near the growing number of wildfires,” the senators wrote. The senators requested a response no later than August 23 on the following questions related to the administration’s efforts on jet fuel shortage: • What plans are currently in place to address fuel shortages for aerial wildfire efforts? • How will your Departments coordinate a

response if a fuel shortage occurs while multiple wildfires are burning across multiple states? • Are there enough available personnel to transport fuel to needed locations? If not, how will you increase qualified personnel? • What are the steps to expedite the ability for non-federal entities to purchase jet fuel to support aerial firefighting? • What steps do you take in the contracting process to ensure that contractors have access to an adequate and reliable supply of fuel? “The importance of a strategic and integrated approach to tackle wildfire is essential, and we urge your continued partnerships and coordination with state and local firefighting response units. We also urge strong coordination with the White House for the duration of the wildfire season to ensure

prompt access to the needed resources when they are available. We stand ready to support wildfire prevention, response, and recovery for the citizens across the West,” the senators concluded. After last year’s devastating wildfire season, Wyden secured a response plan from the Biden administration for the 2021 wildfire season. Wyden has also pressed the FEMA di-

COVID From A1

Gleason said the vast majority of the cases in the area are likely the Delta variant, which is three times more contagious than earlier versions of COVID. Last week, Coos Health & Wellness issued a public health advisory due to the increasing COVID cases. The advisory, which will remain in effect, until ac-

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rector on the urgent need to get state and local officials the resources they need in advance of the upcoming wildfire season. Wyden has introduced several pieces of legislation to prevent severe wildfire risks, including his legislation to establish a 21st Century Civilian Climate Corp to create a workforce to restore our public lands and bolster

wildfire prevention and preparedness, an initiative that will be included in the upcoming budget reconciliation bill. Wyden has also reintroduced his National Prescribed Fire Act to support pre-fire season controlled burns as an essential, science-based strategy for reducing hazardous fuels to mitigate the worst effects of severe wildfire.

tive cases drop below 120, urge the community to take precautions due to COVID. The recommendations included: • Strongly encourage business/venues to implement indoor masking policies and social distancing; • Encourage food establishments to reduce indoor capacity to 50% of normal operations; • Outdoor events of larger than 50 to encour-

age masking and social distancing; • Postpone any indoor events larger than 50 attendees; • After travel by air or cruise ship, quarantine/ isolate for three days upon returning or seek testing; • If symptomatic, stay home from work and get tested; and • Encourage vaccination at any local pharmacy or health clinic.

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TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2021  |  A5

The World

Opinion A Country Media Newspaper 350 Commercial Ave., Coos Bay, OR 97420 news@theworldlink.com | theworldlink.com/news/opinion

Letters to the Editor Take COVID precautions Dear Douglas County Citizens, The Douglas County Board of Commissioners would like to express their continued support and appreciation to CHI – Mercy Medical Center and all of their staff for the incredible job they have done in caring for the medical needs of our community during the current health care crisis. Mercy, who is the main hospital hub for Douglas County, has been heavily impacted, and continues to be heavily impacted by the latest surge of local coronavirus cases. Mercy released a statement today, with a plea to the community for support, understanding and cooperation as they work hard to manage resources, patient care and accessibility to medical services. We encourage everyone to join us in supporting their efforts and in working together, so we can prevent any additional unnecessary interruptions to the medical needs of our community in the coming days and weeks. Here is a copy of a statement that Mercy sent us Thursday, August 12: “Mercy is operating at near capacity with significantly strained resources. While we continue to balance outpatient surgical cases with our normal acute practices, the dramatic increase in COVID rates at the community level, has translated into an enormous rise in Emergency Department utilization, and a high volume of infected unvaccinated patients being admitted to the hospital for intensive treatment. “Tragically, these elevated volumes have impacted our ability to continue to provide inpatient elective surgical options. In order for Mercy to compensate for the heavy influx of COVID cases, we have made the hard decision to temporarily postpone some surgical procedures that have been identified as non-emergent/urgent. For instance, if an elective procedure has a high probability of requiring post-surgical bed use and hospitalization then it won’t be scheduled or performed. “As soon as the conditions stabilize, we will promptly resume those important services. Outpatient surgeries and procedures not needing hospitalization will continue, and will be done mostly at the Oregon Surgery Center. Please recognize that these situations are extremely fluid. We greatly appreciate your patience and understanding. “Right now, Mercy has 43 total COVID patients spread across multiple units in the hospital. 11 of those are being managed in our Intensive Care Unit, and 8 of them are being actively sustained by invasive mechanical airway support. As the need for ventilator equipment increases, and the staffing pool is further stretched and depleted, Mercy’s Life Care Team will be trepedatiously considering the implementation of Crisis Standards of Care.

This is when, in public health emergencies and viral pandemics, hospitals are pushed beyond their normal operating standards and are forced to make difficult triaging and allocation decisions. In practical terms, if the trend does not improve, the Life Care Team might be confronted with the painful task of prioritizing treatment, according to who would medically benefit the most from the care being provided. This would be predicated on recognized, evidenced-based guidelines. We desperately hope to avoid this possibility, and so our plea to the community is simple. Please wear a mask, exercise an abundance of caution, and be vaccinated for the good of your neighbor and the welfare of the public. “The current projections are deeply concerning. In the absence of wise and decisive action, Mercy will experience a more than doubling of her current COVID patient load by mid-September. Such a scenario would overwhelm our capacity and paralyze our ability to provide all types of care.” According to respected medical sources, the data overwhelmingly illustrates that the three widely available COVID vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalizations and death. In fact, it currently shows that vaccines are 70-80% effective in preventing symptomatic disease, and over 90% effective in keeping you from being hospitalized or dying from COVID. To illustrate this point, 43 of the 47 patients currently hospitalized with COVID are not vaccinated. Again, as we have said since the beginning, the Douglas County Board of Commissioners, Dr. Bob Dannenhoffer our Douglas County Public Health Office, our partners at Douglas Public Health Network and our local health care community continue to encourage our residents to be safe, stay healthy and protect those you love; take the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the virus; stay home if you are sick and consider making the choice to get the vaccine in order to protect our community from continued grief. Access to emergent and essential medical care at our local hospital is a primary necessity in our community. The Douglas County Board of Commissioners fully support Mercy in their efforts and decisions. Additionally, our hearts and thoughts go out to all the Mercy employees and volunteers who are dedicated to serving our community through this crisis and in all other challenges they might face in the future. Sincerely, Chair, Tom Kress Commissioner Tim Freeman Commissioner Chris Boice

HOW TO CONTACT YOUR LEGISLATORS U.S. SENATORS Sen. Jeff Merkley (D) 107 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510 Phone: 202-224-3753 Fax: 202-228-3997 Website: merkley.senate.gov/contact

Sen. Ron Wyden (D) 223 Dirkson Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510-0001 Phone: 202-224-5244 Fax: 202-228-2717 Website: wyden.senate.gov/contact

U.S. REPRESENTATIVE - CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 4 Sen. Peter DeFazio (D) 2134 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515-0001 Phone: 202-225-6416 Fax: 202-225-0032 Website: house.gov/formdefazio/contact

Write to us and the community with a Letter to the Editor This newspaper’s letters to the editor are limited to a maximum of 350 words and will be edited for grammar, spelling and blatant inaccuracies. Unsubstantiated or irresponsible allegations or personal attacks on any individual will not be published. Letters containing details presented as facts rather than opinions must include their sources. Writers are limited to 1 published letter per month. All submissions must include the author’s full name, local street address and telephone number (only the name and city of residence will be published). By submitting a letter, writers also grant permission for them to be posted online. Opinions expressed on this page are the writer’s alone and do not represent the opinion of the newspaper or its parent company, Country Media, Inc. To make a submission to the editor, fill out a submission form at www.theworldlink. com, email worldeditor@countrymedia.net or call 541-269-1222 ext. 235.

GUEST COLUMNS

Overcoming Adversity By Bryan Golden Adversity is an unavoidable part of life. Death of a loved one, breakup of a relationship, malicious action by another, job loss, natural disaster or any other undesirable event are all circumstances people encounter. Events happen that are beyond our control. Successfully overcoming adversity is essential for a healthy life. Overcoming adversity builds mental strength, character and endurance. You develop in ways that would not otherwise be possible. When undesirable incidents occur, you want to avoid the pitfall of the past and becoming mired in the would of, could of or should of trap. It’s done and over. Adversity is overcome by moving forward. Nothing you can do, say, think or feel will ever change the past. Wallowing in feelings of guilt, regret or despair will diminish the present and compromise the future. Although it’s difficult to accept unpleasant events, you have no choice, they have already occurred. The goal is to adjust your outlook to enable you to function and move ahead. Adverse reactions are not unusual when faced with adversity. Feelings of denial, sickness, giving up, retribution, being overwhelmed, inactivity, anger, guilt and “why me” are not uncommon. These reactions are counter-productive causing you to feel worse. Anger or bitterness poisons you and impedes your recovery. You have control over your reaction to adversity. You have been conditioned by how others respond to unpleasant circumstances. However, most people aren’t a good role model for effectively dealing with adversity. Adverse situations can be divided into three categories; events you have no control or influence over, situations resulting from decisions you made, and circumstances caused by someone else’s actions. Effort spent on lamenting the past drains you of energy needed to handle the present and plan for

the future. Your energy is best spent ensuring that you will be OK. After experiencing a loss, a period of grieving is normal but should not become a way of life. Everything in life is temporary. What varies is the timing. As much as you may miss someone, there are people who depend on and need you. Focusing on the needs of others is an effective and positive way to move forward. Perhaps you are unhappy with the results from your decisions. Everyone makes bad calls. There are no “do-overs” - life goes on. How do you get back on track? Learn from your experiences and keep going. Inaction will cause you to feel worse. Channeling your energy into positive action is one of the best cures for being disheartened. For example, if you’ve lost a job, immediately begin the process of getting another one. No matter how bad unemployment is, the odds are always weighted heavily in your favor. Even if the unemployment rate was an astronomical 15% you have an 85% chance of finding a job. If a relationship has ended without any chance of reconciliation, take comfort in the fact that there are numerous people in the same boat. Get out, circulate, and meet people. If you’ve made a bad decision and are unhappy with your circumstances, resolve to change direction. Effecting a correction can be difficult, but persisting in an unhappy state is torture. Everyone encounters adversity. No one is ever singled out. No one knows why some things happen, they just do. Some decide to regain their footing, catch their breath and keep walking forward. Others choose to give up. Each time you overcome adversity you get stronger and wiser and can teach others by example how to do it also. Bryan is the author of “Dare to Live Without Limits.” Contact Bryan at Bryan@columnist.com or visit www.DareToLiveWithoutLimits.com Copyright 2021 Bryan Golden

Ignore the plural form of regard By June Casagrande Here’s a tip: If you’re ever tempted to write “in regards to,” don’t. Ditto that for “with regards to.” It’s too risky. Readers may think less of you if you do. True, you can’t police everything you write to appease sticklers. After all, they can find fault with almost any arrangement of words. But “in regards to” and “with regards to” are more dangerous than most snob-bait phrases because they don’t seem to have any defenders. “In regards to” and “with regards to” aren’t wrong, necessarily. Yet everyone with an opinion on the subject thinks “in regard to” and “with regard to” are better. “The plural form (as in ‘with regards to’ and ‘in regards to’) is, to put it charitably, poor usage,” notes Garner’s Modern American Usage. “‘In regard to.’ Often wrongly written ‘in regards to,’” notes “The Elements of Style.” It’s not just expert opinion. It’s an official rule in the most widely followed editing guide for the book publishing world, the Chicago Manual of Style: “‘In regard to’. This is the phrase, not the nonstandard ‘in regards to,’” the manual’s editors advise. Even the most permissive language authorities seem pretty down on the plural “regards” in these expressions. The gentlest criticism comes from Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary

of English Usage, which points out that, though “in regards to” occurs in casual speech, it’s not really a thing in written English. Even my Microsoft Word grammar-checker gets all judgmental about the plural “regards,” telling me in real as I write: “Rewording here will make the meaning clearer. ‘In regard to.’” Me, I never paid much attention to “in regards to” or “with regards to.” They don’t come up a lot in my world. I suspect people who read a lot of stuffy business correspondence and long-winded corporate communications run into these expressions a lot. But in news and feature writing, they’re not popular. Not even the more widely accepted “in regard to” and “with regard to” turn up because news and feature writing prefer less stuffy language like “about” or even “regarding.” A database search of published books shows that this plain-language aesthetic is catching on. Over the last century or so, the frequency with which “in regard to” and “with regard to” appear in books has plummeted. So if the singular forms are fading away and everyone agrees that the plural forms are awful, surely “in regards to” and “with regards to” must be nearly extinct by now, right? That’s what I thought. Then I searched for the terms in the

books database Google Ngram Viewer and saw the opposite. “With regards to” and “in regards to” are up a hundredfold since the late 1800s — not 100% more likely to appear in a published book, 100 times more likely. This is the point where you might expect your wise language columnist to chime in with an explanation, to reveal the missing variable that magically makes sense of this otherwise inexplicable language trend and explains why these terms are showing up more and more in published books even though the style guide for book publishers says not to use them. Unfortunately, I’m stumped. I can’t for the life of me figure out why the plural forms — expressions Merriam-Webster’s clearly states are not really a thing in print — are increasingly more popular in print. Does this mean the plural forms are on their way to respectability? Maybe, but I doubt it. Even though “with regards to” and “in regards to” are on the rise, they’re still pretty rare in published books. So those of us who dislike them can continue to do so in good conscience for the foreseeable future. — June Casagrande is the author of “The Joy of Syntax: A Simple Guide to All the Grammar You Know You Should Know.” She can be reached at JuneTNC@aol.com.

Have an opinion? Send letters to the editor to worldeditor@countrymedia.net

A6  |  TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2021

The World

OBITUARIES

Maevene Doris Leep

Dr. Donald E. Poage M.D., F.A.C.S.

June 17, 1933 – August 9, 2021

July 2, 1929 - August 1, 2021

A graveside service will be held at 11:30 am, Thursday, August 19, 2021 at Myrtle Crest Memorial Gardens in Coquille with a memorial service to follow at 1:00 p.m. at the Coquille Church of the Nazarene for long-time

Myrtle Point resident, Maevene Doris Leep, who died August 9, 2021 in Bandon at the age of 88. Maevene was born June 17, 1933 in Westlake, Oregon, the daughter of Lovell and Leona (Lamm) Johnson. She was raised and educated in the Triangle Lake area, and graduated from Triangle High School in 1951. She met Delbert Leep in Florence, Oregon and they married on February 15, 1953. They moved to Myrtle Point in the early 1950’s where they raised their family. Maevene was a very active member of the Church of the Nazarene for over 60 years, teaching Sunday school and

singing in the choir. She loved sewing, crocheting, cooking and music. She is survived by sons, Kerry & Janet Leep and Tim & Julie Leep; grandchildren, Chuck & Monica Leep; Aaron & Staci Leep; Amanda & Zeb Krantz; Michael & Martina Leep; Jessica & Tom Cavanaugh and Jeffrey Leep; eleven greatgrandchildren; and a sister, Gail Cooke. She was preceded in death by her husband, Delbert; son, Paul; and brother, David Johnson. Friends may offer condolences online at westrumfuneralservice.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Amling Schroeder Funeral ServiceMyrtle Point 541-572-2524.

Earl Christian “Chris” Williamson June 2, 1950 – June 13, 2021

Earl Christian “Chris” Williamson, former Computer Science Instructor at Southwestern Oregon Community College, passed away at the age of 71, on June 13, 2021 in Coos Bay. Second son of Edsel and Lila Williamson, Chris burst onto the scene on June 2, 1950. Lively and inquisitive, with a innate good humor, Chris adapted easily to changes as the growing family moved to Bainbridge Island, Washington in 1954. Throughout his teen years, he built carpentry skills, developed an interest in photography and sparked an interest in automobile mechanics. Acting on his talent for performance, he was cast in high school

plays and landed roles with Potlatch Playhouse, the local community theater. After graduation, he attended Peninsula College in Port Angeles and Washington State University in Pullman where he focused on film, television and radio production. In 1975, he graduated Cum Laud with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications. He switched fields of study to Electronics, receiving an Associate in Technical Arts Degree from Olympic College. Chris continued his academic pursuits for most of his life, receiving a MS in Computer Science from East Texas State University as well as completing many personal and career enhancing courses. Field Engineer, Technical Writer and World Traveler. Chris met each new challenge with humor and intelligence. His teaching career began in 1978 as an Electronics Instructor in Taif, Saudi Arabia. Chris returned there in 1981 to develop specialized curriculum to teach Technical English. After completing these contracts, he continued teaching Technical English and Computer Programming to foreign nationals in Greenville, Texas. Transferring to Northeast

Texas Community College, Chris taught Computer Science from 1988 to 1998. He completed his teaching career after eighteen years at Southwestern Oregon Community College in 2016. Chris was always ready with a joke, began nearly every sentence with a chuckle, a kind and compassionate soul who loved teaching above all. His many friends, students and family will miss his cheerful and insightful fellowship. He was preceded in death by his father, Edsel Williamson; his mother, Lila Williamson; and his brother, Scott Williamson. He will be dearly missed by his partner, Crystal Cox; brother, Marc Williamson (Linda Sohlberg); sisters, Maureen Anderson (Terry) and Lori Haubrich (Bob Neumann); nieces, Emily Castaneda and Whitney Moser; nephews, Ryan Anderson, Shawn Anderson, Dustin Haubrich, Dulan Haubrich, Erik Williamson and Trygg Williamson. Please join us as we remember Chris on Saturday, August 28, 2021 between 2 and 4 pm at the home of Crystal Cox for an outside gathering at 21 S Dean St., Coquille, 541-396-4107.

DEAR ABBY By Abigail Van Buren GUILT AFTER FRIEND’S DEATH CALLS FOR SELF-FORGIVENESS DEAR ABBY: My dearest friend passed away five years ago. He was a severe alcoholic, and his death resulted from it. I was aware of how bad things had gotten and I was trying to talk him into getting help. I live across the country but visited and spoke with him often. I was considering telling his parents how bad things were since they were mainly supporting him, but I was torn because he was an adult, and I didn’t know if it would be appropriate. Well, while I was considering it, he passed away, and I haven’t been able to get over the guilt. I feel like I should’ve done more. I have a strong urge to tell his parents I knew how he was doing and was contemplating telling them and how sorry I am that I didn’t. Would it be selfish, like rubbing salt in their wounds, just so I can find some kind of peace? I have been going back and forth with this since his death. I have such regret that I didn’t do something more. I don’t know if their forgiveness would help me, or if I’d just be hurting them more. Your opinion on this would be helpful. -- FULL OF REGRETS DEAR FULL: Please forgive yourself and stop second-guessing. You are guilty of nothing more than being a caring friend. The deceased was responsible for his own alcohol-related death. If his parents were supporting him financially, they were already aware their son had a serious problem. Because after five years you cannot stop flogging yourself, you have two options: Discuss this with your religious adviser, or ask your doctor or your insurance provider to refer you for some sessions with a licensed psychotherapist with whom you

can work through this. DEAR ABBY: I have had a girlfriend for about three years, but I have recently begun to feel indifferent about our relationship. We have to travel at least 45 minutes to see each other and don’t always see each other on weekends. I have been trying to convince her to move into my townhome, but something new arises each time I bring it up. Recently, a younger woman (she’s 21, I’m 32) showed an interest in me during one of my sports games. I have talked to her and won’t let any relationship develop outside of being friends. She’s religious and I’m not, and that’s a deal-breaker for me. I’m torn between continuing to try to build my current relationship, trying to pursue the new one, or taking a step back from relationships to focus on my personal goals. Any thoughts, Abby? -PONDERING IN PENNSYLVANIA DEAR PONDERING: It doesn’t appear that you OR your girlfriend of three years is really ready to take things to the next level. If you were, you wouldn’t be debating whether to trade her in for a newer model. As to the younger one, you just stated clearly that her religiosity is a deal-breaker for you. Your third option makes the most sense. Concentrate on your personal goals for a while, and with time, your love life will work itself out. ------------------------------Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.

What a complete life! 92 years full of adventures, dedication to his profession of medicine, devotion to his family and service to his community. Don was born July 2, 1929 to Pauline and Ellis Poage in Tacoma, Washington. He was the oldest of two sons (brother, Ronald preceded him in death). He died August 1, 2021 at Bay Area Hospital in Coos Bay, Oregon; due to complications from an accidental fall. As a young teenager, Don survived a near fatal ruptured appendix (as penicillin was yet to be readily available). During his long recovery period he gained a deep appreciation for the science of medicine, which cemented his passion for his future profession of medical doctor & surgeon, as well as his desire to help other people. Don attended Lincoln High School in Tacoma, graduating in 1947. He was an excellent student & musician. He had a lifelong love affair with the “The Big Band” sound, such as Glenn Miller & Benny Goodman. Don himself was a brilliant clarinetist, playing in multiple bands & orchestras throughout his high school and college years. He also gave clarinet lessons. In fact, he turned down offers from several universities for full ride music scholarships to pursue the study of medicine. But music was always a big part of his life and would prove to be the basis for many friendships over the years. Don worked all through high school and college at various jobs, but had the best stories to tell of his days working at the post office; sorting and delivering mail and working at the nearby logging camps primarily on the road building detail. Don graduated from the College of Puget Sound, in Tacoma in 1951 with a major in chemistry and a minor in biology. He spent 3 years in the National Guard while attending college, primarily serving in the medical/hospital unit as a corporal. He would

go on to earn his medical degree from the University of Washington, graduating in 1955. It was during his time at the U of W that he married the love of his life, Joanne Lowry in June of 1953. They were married for over 65 years, before her passing in July of 2018. Don joined the U.S. Public Health Service in 1955 which began a whirlwind journey for he and Joanne over the next 8 plus years; crisscrossing the United States while serving his country and receiving his surgical training. He began his service in San Francisco; including such adventures as saving a knifed inmate at Alcatraz for which he received a raucous ovation from the other prisoners as he left the island. He was then sent to Bethel, Alaska where it was common for him to make trips to remote villages via canoe or dog sled to treat the native populations. His next assignment took him to Staten Island, New York; where one of his most interesting duties was a stint as the doctor on a Coast Guard Cutter patrolling the North Sea. They next left New York for Gallup, New Mexico. While helping to set up the new Public Health hospital in Gallup he worked as a surgeon on the Navajo Indian Reservation at Ft. Defiance, Arizona. Then it was back to Alaska, this time as a surgeon in Sitka. His final assignment took them to Savannah, Georgia. By this time, with a wife and three children he decided it was time to leave the Public Health Service as a Lt Commander and put down roots. In 1963 Don and Joanne chose to live in Coos Bay and he took a position with the Coos Bay Clinic as the first surgeon in the area. In 1966 Don became a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He spent 10 years with the Bay Clinic before opening his own practice in 1973. He remained in private practice for the next 20 plus years. During this period one of his crowning achievements was being part of the group which was instrumental in getting the current Bay Area

Hospital funded and built. In 1981 he was honored by the Oregon Medical Assoc. chosen as the Oregon Doctor Citizen of the year. In 1995 he closed out his private practice but continued acting as an assistant surgeon to various other doctors in the community well into his 80’s. Besides medicine, Don was actively involved in the community on too many boards and commissions to mention here, but some of his favorites were being a lifelong member of the Lions Club, a devoted MHS Pirate Booster, and being a Coos Bay City Councilman from 1975 -1978, then Mayor from 1979 - 1982. In 2014 Don & Joanne moved to the Inland Point Retirement Community in North Bend. Here they established a new community of friends which fast became more like family than just friends. After Joanne’s passing in 2018 Don became especially close to Don Rubin and his wife, Linda. The 2 “Dons” became best friends and spent hours shooting pool, listening to their favorite Big Band Sounds and the likes of Sinatra, and continuing with his community service, they volunteered together every Tuesday at the Coos Bay Visitor’s Center. Don was proud and thankful that he maintained his independence including driving until the last couple weeks of his life. Dad always said that “he was luckiest man alive” to have lived the life he was blessed with while having Joanne at his side. You are together again now, Dad. We will forever love you. Thank you for being our wonderful father! Don is survived by his three children and their spouses, Richard (Diane), Robert (Peanut) and Dona Jo (Victor). Grandchildren, Sammy, Robert, Joshua, Melissa, Rochelle, Nicholas; and great grandson, Caleb. Cremation was handled by the Coos Bay Chapel.

SERVICE NOTICES A memorial service for Everett Baysinger, 80, of Coos Bay, will be held at 2pm, Tuesday, August 17 at the Lighthouse Temple, 91529 Oleson Lane in Coos Bay. Arrangements are under the care of Coos Bay Chapel, 541-267-3131coosbayareafunerals.com

DEATH NOTICES Thomas L. Jacobson, 85, of Coos Bay died August 7, 2021 in Portland. At his request no public service will be held. Cremation rites will be held at Ocean View Memory Gardens Crematory, Coos Bay under the direction of Coos Bay Chapel 685 Anderson Ave. 541-267-3131. www. coosbayareafunerals.com

A07 |  TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2021

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The World

www.thewor ldlink.com/classifieds • 541-266-6047

Lost & Found Lost! Brass gas cap for antique car. Fell out on Fri., 8/6/21 between 14th & Juniper & 4th & Elrod via Hemlock, 10th St. Central & Anderson, Coos Bay. Reward for recovery. Joe, 541- 267-3969.

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Announcements The City of Reedsport is accepting sealed bids for the following: 1991 Western States Fire Apparatus built by Spartan Motors with approximately 22,069 miles and 2,548 hours. Cummins Diesel Engine, C Series 240 HP, Allison Automatic Transmission, Hale mid-ship pump 1250 GPM, 750 gallon steel tank (minor leak), runs good. Seats six, (2) SCBA seats Warning lights, light bar and siren Discharges: (5) 2.5 Pre-connects: (2) 2.5 Intakes: (2) 5”, (3) 2.5” This apparatus is not certifiable as is. $5,000 reserve bid. Additional equipment not included with purchase unless otherwise listed. Bids will be accepted until 3:00 p.m., Friday, August 20, 2021. All bids must be clearly identified and be in a sealed envelope addressed to Courteney Davis, Deputy City Recorder and CLEARLY marked “Sealed Bid-1991 Fire Truck”. Bids can be mailed or hand delivered to Reedsport City Hall, 451 Winchester Ave. Reedsport, OR 97467. For questions please contact Administrative Officer Chris Spichtig at 541- 271-2423.

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Announcements Chocolate Cherry & Double Blackberry are the cheesecakes this week at The Fleet Deli! Crab cakes are almost gone! Get yours before we run out! We will be open Wed - Sat, 11 - 5. Located next to the cheese factory in Bandon. 541- 290-7030.

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Employment Opps Applications for the position of Utility Billing/Accounts Receivable/Front Counter will be accepted by the City of Reedsport until 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 24, 2021. A complete job description and required City application is available at Reedsport City Hall or online at www.cityofreedsport.org. The salary range for the position is $2,735.13 - $3,621.43 per month with a full benefit package. This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement. Please mail or hand deliver completed applications and materials to Michelle Fraley, Finance Director at 451 Winchester Ave., Reedsport, Oregon 97467. The City of Reedsport provides equal employment opportunity to all qualified employees and applicants without unlawful regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, Oregon, or local law.

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Employment Opps Part-time head housekeeper and housekeepers wanted. Starting wage $15+ hrly. Apply at the Bandon Beach Motel. References required. 541-347-9451. -----------------------------------------Applications for the position of Water Worker I will be accepted by the City of Reedsport, 451 Winchester Avenue, Reedsport, Oregon 97467 until 5:00 PM, Tuesday, August 24, 2021. A complete job description and required City application is available at Reedsport City Hall or online at www.cityofreedsport.org. The salary range for this position is $2,735.13 - $3,621.43 per month with a full competitive benefits package. This position is covered by a collective bargaining unit agreement. Please mail or hand deliver completed applications and materials to Kim Clardy, Public Works Director at 451 Winchester Ave., Reedsport, Oregon 97467. The City of Reedsport provides equal employment opportunity to all qualified employees and applicants without unlawful regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, Oregon, or local law. -----------------------------------------Find your dream job with the classifieds! www.theworldlink.com

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Recreational Vehicles 1986 Minnie Winnie. 20ft 5.7L engine, sleep 6, 81746 miles. Asking $1,850. Info at dannyor@mailrnc.com, (541)398-4810

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Import Autos 2013 NISSAN PATHFINDER STARTING AT $376.50 LIEN VEHICLE ACTION LOCATED AT ALDER ACRES RV PARK 1800 28TH CT. COOS BAY, OR 97420. AUCTION STARTS AT 10:00AM ON AUGUST 25, 2021. -----------------------------------------Get rid of unused, unwanted vehicles with the classifieds. In print and online! 541-266-6047

736 Pets

ANIMAL CREMATORY The Bay Area’s only pet crematory with COOS BAY CHAPEL. 541-267-3131 coosbayareafunerals.com

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Houses Unfurnished Bandon House for Rent Beautifully Furnished 3 Bedrooms / 3 Bathrooms Near the Ocean. Quiet Street $2,350 Monthly / 9 Month Lease Call Cindy at 541-373-1374

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Real Estate/Trade

Legal Notices

Two rental homes for sale. One with bay view in North Bend. One closer to the bay in Coos Bay. Both with space to add. Call for more info 541-267-3704

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF OREGON FOR COOS COUNTY In the Matter of the Estate of David L. Anderson Deceased, Case No. 21PB06142 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN That William P. Anderson has been appointed and has qualified as Personal Representative of the above estate. All persons having claims against the estate are hereby required to present the claim, with proper documentation, within four months after the date of first publication of this Notice, as stated below, to the Personal Representative at the Law Office of Susan Carter, 706 Ash Street, Myrtle Point, Oregon 97458, or the claim may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings in this estate may obtain additional information from the records of the Court, 250 N. Baxter, Coquille, OR 97423, the Personal Representative or the attorney for the Personal Representative. Dated and first published: August 10, 2021 William P. Anderson Personal Representative 250 Poplar Street Mt. Carmel, TN 37645 (423) 306-0973 Published: August 10, August 17 and August 24, 2021 The World & ONPA (ID:322705)

For Sale! 4 acre ranch, garden spot, fruit trees, lg pole barn, nice neighborhood, 3 bdrm 2 bath house, short distance from Coos Bay. $495,000. 541-808-0093 or 541-291-5885. -----------------------------------------Find your dream home with the World! 541-266-6047

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Legal Notices NOTICE OF PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD The North Bend City and CoosCurry Housing Authorities will be accepting written and oral comments on the Annual PHA Plan and Capital Fund Program at a public meeting to be held on August 30, 2021 at 10:00 AM at 1700 Monroe Street, North Bend. Both documents as well as supporting information can be reviewed, or a copy requested, at the same address. For more information, call 541-751- 2042. Published: July 16, July 20, July 23, July 27, July 30, August 3, August 6, August 10, August 13, August 17, August 20, August 24 and August 27, 2021. The World & ONPA (ID:320988)

We want to hear from you!

Reopening? remained open? Let it be known!

get the word out!

IN PRINT. ONLINE. LOCAL. Contact Norman at 541.266.6079

www.theworldlink.com

SPORTS TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2021  |  theworldlink.com

Bassett wins Circle the Bay for the third time JOHN GUNTHER For The World

NORTH BEND — Jared Bassett has made a habit of winning the biggest races in the Bay Area when he returns to his hometown. Bassett won the Circle the Bay run for the third time Saturday, completing the 30-kilometer (18.6-mile) circuit around much of the water body Coos Bay in an hour, 45 minutes and 44 seconds. His time was just 14 seconds slower than the last time he ran, and won, the race, back in 2015. The 2008 Marshfield graduate also won the race in 2010, in a time of 1:49:12, and also is a multi-time champion of the Prefontaine Memorial Run held each September in Coos Bay. “I always love the opportunity to come home and race,” he said. “(There is) nothing better.” Bassett finished almost 20 minutes ahead of the runner-up in the race Saturday, Jason Raehl of Ashland, who was timed in 2:05:15. “It was a perfect day for a run around the bay,” Bassett said. “The conditions couldn’t have been any better. I felt the strongest I have ever felt on the course. So overall, it was an awesome day and the effort felt great. It will set me up for the fall trail races.” That’s Bassett’s primary focus now, and the Bend area is ideal for training for the endurance trail runs. While Bassett took a break for his regular racing style, the overall women’s champion Saturday did the same. Reedsport racewalker Stephanie Casey ran the course instead of her typical racewalking and finished first among the women in 2:38:15. She was a little over four minutes ahead of Jenny McGriff of Coos Bay (2:42:26). “It was so fun to be out there running,” Casey said, adding that she is “taking some time off (from racewalking) since the Olympic Trails at the end of June. Casey finished fourth in the 20-kilometer racewalk at the Olympic Trials in Eugene, finishing in 1:42:32 “I hope to be back to walking soon to start building up to the

world championships next year in Eugene,” she said. “In the meantime, I am grateful for the local running community that puts on such great events to keep my passion going. “I love this course. The views are great, the hills keep it interesting, and I had to work hard not to stop and pick blackberries along the way. It has been a rough season for my walking, but events like this remind me why I do what I do and get me fired up for another season ahead.” The race drew a total of 28 individuals and seven three-person relay teams, with the relay runners each covering roughly a third of the course (the middle leg is longest and the last leg includes a tough series of hills between the Kentuck Inlet on East Bay Drive and U.S. Highway 101, including crossing the famed McCullough Bridge). The top relay team was a trio associated with Myrtle Point, Jerry’s Joggers, which included half-marathon specialist Jerry Roberts, Myrtle Point cross country coach Karl Smith and former Bobcat Jack Isenhart. The team finished in 2:07:19, more than 10 minutes ahead of the runners-up, the Simpson Heights Intrepid Trotters including Todd Landsberg of Coos Bay and North Bend father and son Lawrence and Finley Cheal, a sophomore to be at North Bend High School. “It was a lot of fun,” said Smith, who ran the anchor leg, following Isenhart and Roberts. “We had good weather and great support from the North Bend cross country team.” The Bulldogs again provided support at the numerous aid stations on the route, which they have done for years. The team’s assistant coach is Amarissa Wooden, president of the South Coast Running Club which puts on the Circle the Bay run. The top mixed relay team was Are We There Yet? That group included Pete Schaefers, Nora Collins and Barb Young of Coos Bay and finished in 2:43:12. The top women’s team was Chicks With Kicks, a Coquille trio of Kayla Fisher, Shannon Fisher and Amanda Szarkowski, which crossed the line in 3:05:57.

Photo by David Rupkalvis/The World

Jared Bassett heads into Ferry Road Park at the end of the Circle the Bay road race. Bassett won the race by close to 20 minutes, the third time he won the race. 4:02:35. 50-54 — 1. Tanya Sinko, Myrtle The top masters (40-and55-59 — 1. Michael Brady, Ashland, Point, 4:32:19. over) finisher for the men was 3:55:45. 60-64 — 1. Sandra Merritt, Coos Bay, Hugo Ecija of Spain, who was 60-64 — 1. Chip Boggs, Bandon, 4:07:20. fourth overall in 2:23:25. The 2:56:48. RELAY 65-69 — 1. Jim Littles, Bandon, top masters finisher among the Male — 1. Jerry’s Joggers (Karl 2:55:55. Smith, Jack Isenhart, Jerry Roberts), women was Heidi Messner of 70-74 — 1. Jerry Gentry, Salem, 2:07:19; 2. Simpson Heights Intrepid Terrebonne in 2:57:02. 3:06:08. Race Results MALE 30-34 — 1. Jared Bassett, Bend, 1:45:44; 2. Kevin Brightbill, Syracuse, N.Y., 2:05:40. 35-39 — 1. Jason Raehl, Ashland, 2:05:15; 2. Evan Godsiff, Coos Bay, 2:25:54; 3. Ryan Mill, Coos Bay, 2:50:11. 45-49 — 1. Jeff McPherson, Boulder City, Nev., 2:37:57; 2. Tim Hyatt, Coos Bay, 3:07:27. 50-54 — 1. Hugo Ecija, Madrid, Spain, 2:23:25; 2. Moises Garcia, Coos Bay, 2:39:24; 2. Chad Brown, Coquille,

75-79 — 1. Anthony Kenyon, 4:00:46. FEMALE 30-34 — 1. Jennifer Dungee, Coos Bay, 3:21:32. 35-39 — 1. Stephanie Casey, Reedsport, 2:38:15; 2. Jenny McGriff, Coos Bay, 2:42:26; 3. Courtney Raehl, Grand Rapids, Mich., 3:03:05; 4. Kim Kanies, North Bend, 3:30:27. 45-49 — 1. Heidi Messner, Terrebonne, 2:57:02; 2. Jenna Beh, Coos Bay, 3:02:03; 3. Jessica Engelke, North Bend, 3:20:58; 4. Rikki Thurman, Coquille, 4:15:25.

Trotters (Todd Landsberg, Lawrence Cheal, Finley Cheal), 2:18:46. Female — 1. Chicks With Kicks (Kayla Fisher, Shannon Fisher, Amanda Szarkowski), 3:05:57; 2. Old Enough to Know Better (Elizabeth Hewitt, Sheryl Phillips, Cheryl Waddington), 3:17:17; 3. The Blondies (Melanie Simpson), 3:20:25. Mixed — 1. Are We There Yet? (Pete Schaefers, Nora Collins, Barb Young), 2:43:12; 2. Run DMC (Jennifer Dungee, Melissa Loudenbeck, Clayton Willett), 2:58:38.

North Bend working to get field finished for football JOHN GUNTHER For The World

NORTH BEND — When North Bend school officials decided it was time to replace the turf field at Vic Adams Field, they expected the work to be done in time for the official start of fall sports practice this week. Now they hope it’s done in time for the football and soccer teams to get games on their home field in October. And it’s not the only facilities issue for the school district, which also has found itself needing to replace the floor at North Bend Middle School after a steam leak under the floor led to buckling over more than half the floor. It’s been a perfect storm of misfortune that included a supply chain issue in the football turf replacement project, North Bend athletic director Mike Forrester said. District officials knew that the drains along the sidelines of the field had to be replaced because they were no longer working properly. What they didn’t know was that the new trench drains would be on back order, taking one to three more weeks to arrive. “The football field was supposed to be done this week,” Forrester said last week. “The issue is, they get the drains, they have to install the drains, then they have to pour concrete and re-grade the field to get it to the right level. That whole process takes time.” And that’s all before contractors for FieldTurf, the makers of the artificial surface, can install the new field. News of the football field’s delay and the gym issue could have created great headaches for district officials. Fortunately, North Bend has been able to come up with some alternate venues, including bor-

Photo by John Gunther

The project to replace the turf field at North Bend’s Vic Adams Field, here shown when the old turf was removed earlier this summer, has been delayed by several weeks due to a slow arrival of the new trench drains. rowing Marshfield’s Pete Susick measured and lined and can host “We’re happy to help North was tentatively moved to MarshStadium for the football opener junior varsity contests. Bend,” Marshfield athletic direc- field, in case the North Bend and the soccer field at SouthWhen school starts next tor Greg Mulkey said. field isn’t completed in time. western Oregon Community Col- month, the district will need The teams agreed to move But that game no longer exists lege for the team’s early home to have the physical education their rivalry game to Marshfield after South Eugene announced matches. And the middle school classes for the middle school this year — the Sept. 17 game last week that it will not field a volleyball teams can practice hold class outside while the gym had been scheduled for North football team this fall due to a and play matches in the spacious work is completed. Bend this season. lack of numbers. high school gym. “Thank goodness it’s now, and And North Bend’s first Forrester took a humorous, but “The good news is we have a not when it’s rainy,” Forrester “home” game, against Crater, accurate approach to the news of great facility for our volleyball said. was pushed back one day. The the South Eugene game. teams to practice and play in,” As for the early football Bulldogs will host the Comets on “They say bad things happen Forrester said. games, Marshfield was quick to Saturday, Sept. 4, the day after in threes,” he said. “No football The football team and boys partner with North Bend — the Marshfield hosts defending Class field, middle school gym has to and girls soccer teams are pracPirates played an entire season 4A state champion Mazama. be replaced and now South has ticing on the lower fields below of games on North Bend’s field North Bend’s other early no team so we are a game short the middle school and a portion while their turf was replaced the scheduled home game against … hopefully we are done with of the football practice field is last time. South Eugene on Sept. 25 also bad stuff.”

TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2021  |  A9

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TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2021  |  A11

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North Bend From A1

Agency wanted to do what urban renewal dollars are supposed to do and that’s get rid of blight.” The old county annex was originally built as Kaiser Memorial Hospital in 1923. Two years later, a wing to the hospital was added to increase bed capacity. Both Keizer Memorial in North Bend and McAuley Hospital in Coos Bay closed their doors on May 19, 1974, when Bay Area Hospital opened. Coos County purchased the former hospital in 1974, which has since housed court operations and other offices, including Coos Health & Wellness and the assessor’s office. The state courtroom was the only function left when the county shuttered the facility at the height of the pandemic, citing increasing maintenance costs and building security concerns. The annex sits on 1.33 acres next to North Bend City Hall. The Urban Renewal Agency purchased the the former hospital building and the two additional lots – .33 acres at 2040 Union Avenue and .23 acres at 885 Virginia

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Avenue. The purchase was for less than the appraised value. Coos County Commissioner Melissa Cribbins said she was happy to work with North Bend to have something done at the annex. She said the county purchased the old hospital for $1 when it took it over, so selling to the city for a good price was the right thing to do. “Our biggest goal was that this sight get redeveloped,” Cribbins said. “It’s a great location. It’s right in downtown North Bend. It’s a great opportunity for the city and we’re real excited they get to develop it.” Engelke said what the site will ultimately look like has not been determined, but the city is moving ahead with needed work before a developer can be brought on board. “The idea is it will be torn down and redeveloped,” Engelke said. “It will be some housing, some commercial and it will be the first time in 100 years it will be back on the tax rolls.” To develop the site, the city is planning to enter into a public-private partnership, with a developer turning the council’s

Photo by David Rupkalvis/The World

Theoldcountyannexwillturnintoamixed-usedevelopmentindowntown North Bend.

vision into a new building. That vision is still being discussed, but Engelke said one this is certain - the finished building will be multiple stories. “Every housing study North Bend has participated in, we know a couple of things,” Engelke said. “We’re surrounded by water on one side, and we’re surrounded by Coos Bay. So we know we have to build up.” North Bend Planning Director Ralph Dunham said it will cost the Urban Renewal Agency around $600,000 to demolish the building and will likely take four years before the final product is finished. “Our primary focus is affordable housing,” Urban Renewal Agency Executive Director David Milliron said. “The other elements that come along will be icing on the cake. Housing is going to be our primary focus. We have an affordable housing issue. It’s a critical issue. You can’t bring people to fill jobs if they don’t have housing.” Cribbins said what she has heard about North Bend’s plan is perfect for the city and the region. “I really have to applaud North Bend for this vision,” she said. “This is city planning at its finest.” The North Bend Urban Renewal Agency is funded through a tax cerement finance district, which brings in funding without raising the tax rate. The way it works is when the URA was founded, the property value for each property in the district was frozen. As property values

increase, any additional taxes brought into the city are shifted to the URA instead of the general fund. For example, if a home had a value of $100,000 when the URA was created, only taxes from the first $100,000 in value go to the city’s general fund. If that home is now worth $150,000, the taxes from the extra $50,000 go to the URA. The goal of the TIF is to make strategic investments that spur development, address blighted conditions and support property investments that would not have otherwise occurred. Due to the age and prior use of the building,

extensive environmental and hazardous materials testing was completed during the URA’s due diligence period. The URA will participate in Oregon’s Brownfields Program for reimbursement of remediation of environmental activities associated with

the property, including the removal of asbestos, lead-based paint and two fuel tanks that need to be remediated and closed. Dunham said residents will likely see some activity at the site in the coming months with demolition early in 2022.