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CANNON BEACH KICKS OFF HOLIDAYS

VOL. 45, ISSUE 24  FREE

GIVING TREE IS ALIVE

GOV. CALLS SPECIAL SESSION

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CANNONBEACHGAZETTE.COM

December 10, 2021

Food tax vote going to recount Kathleen Stinson

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For The Gazette

recount in the Cannon Beach prepared food tax vote took place at 9 a.m. until noon on December 8 in the Judge Guy Boyington Building in Astoria, according to a Clatsop County news release. According to county officials, the prepared food tax passed by a four-vote margin. Patrick Nofield, president of the Escape Lodging Company, which manages the Driftwood Restaurant & Lounge and Tom’s Fish & Chips in Cannon Beach, told The Gazette last week that he filed the request for the recount. Nofield said he filed the recount request “because the measure was contentious and as close as it was, I think it calls for a recount just to confirm the results.” “It just seems reasonable that with an election of 754 voters (and a result) separated by

four votes, it would be appropriate to ask for a recount,” he said. “Frankly, I feel that the integrity of the election should be questioned based on the ballot box being opened and compromised by a city official,” he said. “Why would a city official not seek direction from the county elections department or the Secretary of State’s Office prior to compromising the ballot box at Cannon Beach City Hall.” “Regardless of the outcome of the recount, I believe there should be a revote,” he said. City Manager Bruce St. Denis provided The Gazette with the following statement on Friday: “Voters had contacted the city and let city official know that they had not been able to access the ballot box at city hall but had managed to get their ballots into the box by sliding them into a crack in the access door. This action would not result in their ballot being deposited correctly in the box. Because there was a threat of significant rain over the

next few days it was decided to open the box and place those ballots in the proper internal

n See

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Lamplighter

Cannon Beach businesses feel the labor shortage crunch

Workforce housing number one cause to problem Kathleen Stinson

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The annual Lamp Lighting Ceremony is back this year as the official start to the holiday season in Cannon Beach. Rainy cold weather did not dampen the festivities that included the singing of Bill Steidel’s Christmas song, Christmas carols performed by the Cannon Beach Academy and the Seaside High School Choir and of course the annual lighting of the lamp at Sandpiper Square. See more photos inside. Photo by Joe Warren

Ring in the holidays in Cannon Beach C

Staff

annon Beach’s exceptional specialty shops, boutiques, churches and galleries are a top attraction in the charming beach town where you will find no shopping malls or chain stores in sight, making it a great spot to slow down and enjoy the hunt for those perfect holiday gifts. Add some evergreen garlands, twinkling lights and red ribbon and you will begin to see just how much holiday magic can unfold in our beautiful little village by the sea. There is never a shortage of holiday spirit in Cannon Beach and the season’s lineup is large with festive events, music, bright lights, plays and even Santa. Cannon Beach is truly a unique place to enjoy the holidays. Current – Dec. 18 – Coaster Theatre Playhouse presents the holiday classic “A Christmas Carol.” This production is a radio-

style play written, workshopped and performed by the theatre community. Get tickets for one of the performances slated for Fridays, Saturdays, and one Sunday matinee. Buy tickets online at https://bit. ly/3aG843D or by calling 503-4361242. Current – Dec. 20 – Cannon Beach in Lights. View the beautiful lights and Christmas displays decorating the town The community enjoys Christmas Carols performed by the Cannon and vote for your fa- Beach Academy Saturday at Sandpiper Square. Photo by Joe Warren vorite at the chamber That Tune’ Window Contest in through Dec. 20. Awards will be or on the website. Cannon Beach. Visit participating announced on Dec. 21 on FaceVoting opens through Dec. 20. locations and submit completed book. Awarded will be announced on playing cards for a chance to win Facebook Dec. 21. a holiday gift basket. Voting opens Current – Dec. 20 – ‘Name n See RING, Page 2

For The Gazette

labor shortage in retail and restaurants in Cannon Beach is a big issue, locals say. Jim Paino, executive director of the Cannon Beach Chamber of Commerce, said the labor shortage is not just in Cannon Beach, it is all along the coast of Oregon and in rural areas. “I think a lot of the businesses are looking at having to change their model so they can work with less staff.” Paino said. “During the summer, some of the restaurants had to stay closed for two days a week because they couldn’t find the staff.” “I know of one business that had to close for a week in August because their staff was burned out,” he said. “Taking that time off during the busy season is certainly not typical.” “I can say with certainty that the wage scale in our community has gone up,” he said. This shortage of employees is caused by many different factors, he said. “Workforce housing is an issue.” Cannon Beach resident Faye Sweet said there is a “huge labor shortage in Cannon Beach.” Sweet said the shortage is due to the expensive housing market and the fact that “there is nowhere to rent.” The properties are all vacation rentals and Airbnbs. “I have two friends who have to move out of their rentals,” she said. “They may have to move even out of the state to find something they can afford. They are vital people to the workforce in Cannon Beach. They do a lot.” Generally speaking the minimum wage in Cannon Beach is “higher than some places, but it’s not nearly enough for rent or anything.” In the winter, it can flood between Seaside and Cannon Beach – “that’s a huge issue,” she said. People could lose a day of work if they commuted. A number of retail businesses and restaurants are having to limit their open hours due to a lack of enough employees, she said. The passage of the food tax will exacerbate the situation. She talked to two women from Washington State who said the reason they come to Cannon Beach to eat is there was no food tax. If the tax passed, they said they will go to Seaside to eat. Erin Olson, manager of Dena’s Shop on the Corner in Cannon Beach said the labor shortage is due to the lack of affordable housing. “A lot of them are tired of not having a livable wage,” Olson said. “They are not going to work as hard as they do and still not be able to cover their bills.” Emma Lindsay, former owner of Dogs Allowed in Cannon Beach said: “Even before the pandemic, it was difficult finding reliable employees.” A lot of it has to do with the cost of housing in Cannon Beach.


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December 10, 2021

CannonBeachGazette.com

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Cannon Beach Gazette

Giving Tree alive in Cannon Beach Staff The annual holiday Giving Tree promotion sponsored by the Cannon Beach American Legion is currently underway. This annual drive, is designed so every child in Cannon Beach has a good holiday, and receives a present. If you need an application, you can get one at the Legion Hall, according to Nancy Teagle, applications will be in an envelope by the entrance of the hall. You should return your applications to the Legion Hall when they are completed. Taegle has set up a locked mailbox labeled Giving Tree so your application can be filled. There are also a need for presents for Seniors in the community, so while you are filling a child’s wish list, please also consider filling

This bull elk takes a nap at the entrance to Cannon Beach just off HWY 101 Saturday during a rain shower. Photo by Joe Warren

a request for one of Cannon Beach’s senior citizens. “I want to give a shout out to the family and staff of Bruce’s Candy Kitchen,” Taegle said. “They always provide the candy for this event and have done so for years and they also give a lot of gifts, they are the most generous people on the Coast.” Members of the community are encouraged to stop

by the Giving Tree located a the Wayfarer Restaurant in the lobby to pull a card with information about a child in need. Wrapped presents can be returned to the Giving Tree and will be delivered on Dec. 23 to area children by members of the Cannon Beach American Legion. For more information contact Teagle at 503-440-0222.

Candy makes the sweetest gift Right here in Cannon Beach we make seasonal homemade confections that include Peppermint Bark, Butter Creams, decorated Oreos & Nutter Butter.

Cannon Beach Mayor Sam Steidel tells the crowd the history of the Lamplighting ceremony. (Above) the Seaside High Choir sings Christmas carols. Photos by Joe Warren

CURBSIDE PICK UP AVAILABLE

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Current- Dec. 23 – Holiday Crafting at Child’s Play in Cannon Beach. Decorate Christmas glass ornaments, pom pom Christmas trees and Christmas wood signs adorned with twinkle lights. For details, visit achild’splay.com Dec. 11 – Pictures with Santa from 1-4 p.m. at

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Sandpiper Square (or the chamber community hall in case of rain) in Cannon Beach. Come support the Cannon Beach Academy and get your picture with Santa. Dec. 11 & 12 – Holiday Pictures with Santa from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Seaside Outlets. Dec. 12 – Soups for Santa from noon to 3 p.m. Bring your soup donation to either Tolovana Wayside from noon to 12:55 p.m., Cannon Beach Fire Department from 1-1:55 p.m., or the old Cannon Beach Elementary School from 2-2:55 p.m. and meet Santa. All donations benefit the Cannon Beach Community Food Pantry. Dec. 15 – Holiday Pictures with Santa from 4-7 p.m. at Seaside Outlets. Dec. 19 – Fireside Storytime with Santa at 4 p.m. at the Surfsand Resort Ballroom in Cannon Beach. Enjoy cookies and hot cocoa in the lobby before hearing Santa read “Night Before Christmas.” Dec. 20 – Old-Fashioned Christmas in the Flavel House Museum in Astoria from 6-8 p.m. Dec. 23 – Caroling Downtown from 5-6 p.m. in Cannon Beach. Will begin at the chamber and go through downtown, ending for hot cocoa at the Cannon Beach Chocolate Café. Dec. 27-30 – Holiday Foods Around the World in Cannon Beach. Visit participating restaurants who will feature unique food and beverage special, highlighting many different countries and cuisines. Locations list on chamber website.

Concerts at Cannon Beach Community Church Northwest Piano Trio in Concert: Sunday, December 12, at 3p.m., Northwest Piano Trio return to Cannon Beach to present “Classical Christmas,” a free and open to the public concert in Cannon Beach at Cannon Beach Community Church at 132 E. Washington Street, in downtown Cannon Beach. This holiday concert will include selections from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker. The Northwest Piano Trio, founded in 2014, is based in Portland. Donations to NW Piano Trio may be made at the door. Concert attenders are asked to wear masks and dress warmly, as windows will be open for good air circulation. N95 masks will be available at the door. Piano & Flute Holiday Concert: Sunday, December 19th, 3p.m., Jennifer Goodenberger on piano and Shelly Loring on flute present a holiday concert in Cannon Beach at Cannon Beach Community Church (132 E. Washington Street, in downtown Cannon Beach). This holiday concert is free and open to the public and will include original compositions by Goodenberger, as well as traditional carols and holiday favorites. Concert attenders are asked to wear masks and dress warmly, as windows will be open for good air circulation. N95 masks will be available at the door. Goodenberger and Loring are both long-time residents of Clatsop County.

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Cannon Beach Gazette

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CannonBeachGazette.com

December 10, 2021

At the library

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Books, authors and turtle rescuers visit library R

eaders given to counting, to totting stuff up, should know the Cannon Beach Library collection grew by 21 books in November. New mysteries added included “Mercy” by David Baldacci, “Better Off Dead” by Lee Childs, “The Dark Hour” by Michael Connelly and “Robert Parker’s Stone’s Throw” by Mike Lupica. Six new novels were added, including “Light from Uncommon Stars” by Ryka Aoki,, “Once Upon a Wardrobe” by Patti Callahan, “Martita, I Remember You” by Sandra Cisneros, “The Sentence” by Louise Erdrich, “The Book of Form and Emptiness” by Ruth Ozeki and “Harlem Shuffle” by Colon Whitehead. The Cisneros mystery is a bilingual edition. Among nonfiction titles added were “The Book of Hope: A Survival Guide for Trying Times” by Jane Goodall, Douglas Abrams and Gail Hudson, “The Dawn of Everything” by David Graeber and David Wengrow, “There is Nothing for You Here: Finding Opportunities in the Twenty-First Century” by Fiona Hill, ”Big Shot: Diary of a Wimpy Kid” by Jeff Kinney and “Yellow Bird: Oil, Murder, and a Woman’s Search for Justice in Indian Country” by Sierra Crane Murdoch. Other nonfiction books added last month were “On Animals” by Susan Orleans, “Scientists: E. O. Wilson, A Life in Nature” by Richard Rhodes, “Midnight in Washington” by Adam Schiff, “American Made: What Happens to People When

Work Disappears” by Farah Stockman, “Beautiful Country: A Memoir” by Qian Julie Wang and “1000 Years of Joys and Sorrows” by Ai Weiwei. I just consumed “American Made: What Happens to People When Work Disappears” or perhaps this moving book just consumed me. So, readers of this column should expect a review of Stockman’s analysis of what has happened to rural America, Trump land, the fly-over zone, manufacturing factories, unions, terminal highschool graduates or the Democratic Party in my upcoming Christmas Eve column. “American Made” will prove an important, lasting model of smart, moving, nonfictional prose, much as Michael Herrington’s “The Other America,” Truman Capote’s “In Cold Blood,” Gordon Allport’s “The Nature of Prejudice” or John Griffith’s “Black Like Me” forced an early Sixties generation to ask, “Which side are you on?” Recovery appears in myriad ways. The Northwest Authors Series Committee at the library invites writers to submit prose, poetry, short stories and essays on the theme of “Recovery?” to the fourth annual Writers Read Celebration. Writers of all ages are encouraged to participate in developing this year’s theme of “Recovery?” The deadline for submission is Monday, January 24. A panel of volunteer judges will select 10-to-12 works to be read by their authors during

n TAX Continued from Page 1 receptacle to protect them from potential rain damage. The decision was made to open the box on a Sunday and the city had no contact information to discuss the situation with county or state elections officials. As the City had been given a key by the county elections office to address these types of situations,

the celebration, held via Zoom, Saturday, March 5, at 7 p.m.. This year’s theme encompasses many meanings of “Recovery?” Writers may approach this theme from any angle or viewpoint. Joseph Bernt They may even question if what appears to be recovery is really what they imagined. All written formats—essay, story, verse, prose and so forth—will be considered. Writers, however, are limited to no more than three entries, with each entry limited to no more than 600 words. Entries should be sent by email (info@cannonbeachlibrary.org) or by USPS (P.O. Box 486, Cannon Beach, OR 97110); however, email is preferred. Submissions should be formatted in Word or PDF and include a cover letter indicating the writer’s name, email and telephone number. Writers are asked not to include author’s name or contact information on the entry manuscripts, so authors remain anonymous during the judging process. The Northwest Authors Series Committee sponsors monthly author presentations and other events at the Cannon Beach Library. This is the fourth year the committee has

city officials used the key to open the ballot box, retrieve the inappropriately deposited ballots and placed them in the correct area of the ballot box. The city then closed the box. City Manager Bruce St.Denis and Public Works Director Karen La Bonte were present while this occurred. These decisions/actions occurred on October 17th and the City Council and City Attorney were immediately notified. Out of an abundance of caution, the city also subsequently provided this information to

sponsored the Writers Read Celebration. Previous themes were: “Life on the North Coast,” “The View from the North Coast” and “Pandemic.” Last year’s Writers Read Celebration on Zoom may be viewed on the Cannon Beach Library website or Facebook page. The World of Haystack Rock Library Lecture Series will host Marc Ward, cofounder and executive director of Sea Turtles Forever (STF). Ward will present “Microplastic Recovery on the North Oregon Coast,” Wednesday, January12, at 7 p.m., via Facebook Live@ Friends of Haystack. Ward has spent the past 20 years managing STF operations in Costa Rica and Oregon. STF has hatched 175,000 endangered sea turtles during the past two decades, turtles which otherwise would have been illegally harvested for sale on Costa Rica’s black market. STF also has led efforts to remove marine microplastic using a patented system developed by Ward and now employed throughout the world. STF Blue Wave removes tons of microplastic every year from Northern Oregon beaches during periods when turtles are not nesting. The Northwest Authors Series will host Tina Ontiveros

the Oregon Secretary of State. The City also discussed this issue with the County Elections Office. The County noted that the City was correct to have two persons present when the box was opened and stated the City did not violate any rules. Clatsop County Clerk Tracie Krevanko told The Gazette in a previous story that she knew of an incident in which the city accessed inside the ballot box during the election. “She said what happened is election personnel accidentally left

via Facebook on Saturday, January 15, at 2 p.m. “Rough House”—Ontiveros’ award-winning memoir—tells a story of family, addiction, adventure and poverty while her father chased temporary employment as a logger throughout the Pacific Northwest living in temporary housing or travel vans. “Rough House” was a 2020 Indie Next Great Read, stayed on the Pacific Northwest Booksellers Association Bestseller’s List for 20 weeks and received the PNBA Book Award. Ontiveros—a writer, teacher and bookseller based in the Pacific Northwest—earned her BA in Literature from Marylhurst University, an MFA from Goddard College and worked for more than 10 years at Klindt’s Booksellers, Oregon’s oldest bookstore, located in The Dalles. She currently lives in Oregon and teaches writing and literature at Columbia Gorge Community College. Join Ontiveros’ presentation from Facebook (www. facebook.com/cannonbeachlibrary) or from the library’s home page. Post questions live on Facebook, or call and email questions before the author’s presentation. On Wednesday, December 15, Phyllis Bernt will lead members of Cannon Beach Reads in a discussion of “Honey in the Horn” by H. (Harold) L (Lenoir) Davis (1894-1960), the only native Oregon novelist to have re-

the ballot box closed for a time, during which a voter slipped his or her ballot into the side of the box, as stated in a previous story. “When she was notified about the locked ballot box, she went to Cannon Beach and unlocked it, she said. She gave the city a set of keys to the ballot box at that time. “After the clerk left, the voter wanted to make sure their ballot had been counted and so the city opened the box and put the ballot into the box, she said she was told. “At that time, the city did not

ceived a Pulitzer Prize (1936). I’m a third of the way through “Honey in the Horn” and find myself quite taken by his dense descriptions, folksy asides, and jaded view of Southern Oregon pioneers during the late nineteenth century. Davis is hardly politically correct, but he’s a damned fine novelist who writes prose resembling a cross between the exaggerations of Mark Twain and the complexities of William Faulkner, both excellent regional writers who, in their lifetimes, captured a national readership. As did Faulkner, Davis also reluctantly spent time in early Hollywood script factories and writing for national magazines. Still, he managed to publish another six major books before his early death: “Harp of a Thousand Strings (1947), “Beulah Land” (1949), “Winds of Morning” (1952), “Team Bells Awake Me” (1953), “The Distant Music” (1957) and “Kettle Fire” (1953). Some Davis scholars consider “Winds of Morning” a superior novel to “Honey in the Horn,” which had earned him the Pulitzer Prize and extensive national notoriety. Anyone interested in joining members of Cannon Beach Reads for discussion of important or bestselling fiction and nonfiction, should email me (berntj@ohio.edu) so I can add you to the group’s email list and send you the Zoom invitation a couple of days before the group’s virtual meetings.

notify the clerk that they did it, she said. ‘A concerned voter’ notified her and she called the city manager. The clerk told the city manager: “This should not have happened to begin with and don’t do it again without talking to me first.” The clerk said “she thinks that nothing wrong happened,”as stated in the previous story. (As of press time, the recount was not complete, please see recount results on the Cannon Beach Gazette website and also in the next print edition of the paper).

Es hora de que recibas la atención médica que necesitas. Controles anuales. Consulta de control para niños. Vacunas. Cuidado dental. La gente de Oregón se está vacunando y los niños volvieron a la escuela. Este es el momento ideal para asegurarte de que tu salud está en orden. Los profesionales de Columbia Pacific CCO pueden ofrecerte una amplia variedad de opciones seguras de atención presencial. Y todas son sin cargo para los miembros de Columbia Pacific. Pide una cita a tu médico o visita ColPacHealth.org/servicios.


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December 10, 2021

Opinion and Letters

Re: Issues with local ballot box fixed by staff.

In this current climate of distrust of politicians and distrust of the mail-in ballot system, I hope I am not the only person who is quite concerned that Clatsop County Clerk Tracie Krevanko, give a key to a ballot box, to a representative for the City of Cannon Beach. What in the world would possess Ms. Krevanko to do such a thing? It is common knowledge that the political leaders of Cannon Beach wanted the Food Tax to be approved. According to Ms. Krevanko, the representative for Cannon Beach did open the ballot box. There is no way to tell if there was any ballot temper-

ing. In fact, considering Ms. Krevanko’s statement “She thinks that nothing wrong happened”, this should raise a bunch of red flags. I think the old idiom, the fox guarding the hen house, is appropriate for this situation. Regardless of how one voted for the Food Tax, it should be troubling, to all voters, that there was the potential for voter irregularities. This should also bring into question the validity of the vote. Kudos to The Gazette for bringing this story to light, particularly when there are many other instances of voter irregularities that never see the light day. Jim Ramsey Cannon Beach

CannonBeachGazette.com

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Cannon Beach Gazette

Addressing eviction protections: Governor calls special session Staff Report

Governor Kate Brown has called the Oregon Legislature into special session on December 13 to address eviction protections for renters. “As we enter our coldest months, it is absolutely essential that we take action to ensure no additional Oregon families are evicted when rental assistance is on the way,” Brown said. “I have spoken directly with Oregon renters in recent weeks about the pain and hardship their families have faced due to the economic impacts of the pandemic. We must take legislative action now to approve additional state funding for rental assistance, and to extend eviction protections for Oregonians who have applied for assistance. “Our federal funds for rental assistance will be nearly spent on December 1. I am continuing to work with federal officials at U.S. Treasury and the White House to secure additional federal emergency rental assistance funding for Oregon, but it is clear that a state solution is needed to address the urgent and immediate needs of Oregon renters. And, we must begin laying the groundwork now for the transition to local eviction prevention services after federal pandemic emergency programs draw to an end.”

Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) received $289 million in federal rental assistance funds to help Oregon renters impacted by COVID-19. As of last week, OHCS and their local partners had paid out close to $150 million in federal emergency rental assistance to over 22,000 households with Oregon ranking eighth in the nation for federal funds paid or obligated. OHCS and its partners have received more than 25,000 additional applications and continue to review and approve thousands of those applications each week.

Nearly $20 million was paid to renters over the previous two weeks. OHCS has calculated that all remaining federal rental assistance funds will have been requested by December 1. After conversations with legislative leaders, stakeholders, landlord associations, and housing advocates, the Governor is proposing the following framework to prevent further evictions: • Extend eviction safe harbor protections for each individual who has applied for rental assistance. • Ensure landlords are paid in full for the rent they are

owed. • Provide up to $90 million in additional rental assistance to ensure low-income tenants access through the winter. • Provide $100 million to transition from large-scale pandemic-related emergency rental assistance to long-term, locally-delivered eviction prevention services. The package would address the immediate needs of Oregon renters through the winter months. Legislators may also be asked to take on additional time-sensitive issues during the special session that require action before February 2022.

Omicron likely to reach Oregon soon David Rupkalvis Country Media As a new variant of COVID-19 begins to spread around the globe, state officials are urging residents to get vaccinated before Omicron becomes a serious threat. The new variant has established itself in South America and appears to spread more easily than the Delta variant that spread around the globe and caused cases and deaths to spike on Oregon. Initial reports in South Africa show the Omicron variant spreads easily, but most cases are less severe with many reporting cold-like symptoms. Dr. Dean Sidelinger , the state epidemiologist, said work is ongoing to learn more about Omicron, but he said one thing is for certain - it will get to Oregon. “Omicron has not yet been detected in the Oregon, but we expect it will be in the coming days due to its reported high transmissibility,” Sidelinger said. “Oregon has one of the most robust variant surveillance systems in the United States, and so far, no cases of Omicron have been detected. What we do know is that the basic prevention steps we have long talked about remain the best ways to protect yourself against Omicron, Delta or any variant of COVID-19 that is circulating. Vaccination remains the best protection against COVID-19

infection and transmission, including most circulating variants.: While it is too early to tell if Omicron can be stopped with the vaccine, Sidelinger said the success in keeping people out of the hospital and alive in Delta shows the vaccine is effective, even if someone catches COVID. “The vaccines have remained highly effective against other variants, and we expect the same to be true with Omicron. We should have early answers in the coming weeks,” he said. “The best way to protect yourself against Omicron, or any variant of COVID-19 that is circulating, is to be vaccinated. Vaccination remains the best protection against COVID-19. Those who are not yet vaccinated should get their first COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible. Those due for a booster – all adults either two months after a Johnson & Johnson vaccination or six months after a Moderna or Pfizer vaccination – should get it as soon as possible. Wearing a mask when inside public places as well as social distancing and handwashing remain incredibly important in the face of an emerging variant and high levels of community transmission.” Some reports have shown Omicron is in California, which means it is just a matter of time before it moves to Oregon. While Sidelinger said

that will cause some stress, he said taking preventative measures are the best steps to remain safe. “We know that news of Omicron’s emergence will cause many people to experience some anxiety about the unknown,” he said. “We also know there is a great deal of “pandemic fatigue” as cases, hospitalizations and deaths are reported daily. COVID-19

continues to disrupt our lives. I share these anxieties as we continue to face COVID-19.” To learn about vaccines in Coos County or to make an appointment to receive a vaccine, visit cooshealthandwellness.org.

Knappa teacher arrested on warrant after grand jury indictment David Michael Brandon, a 44-year-old Clatsop County resident, was arrested and lodged at the Clatsop County Jail on November 24th, 2021. The arrest came after a warrant was issued by the Clatsop County Circuit Court, after a Grand Jury indictment. Brandon was lodged on five counts of Rape in the Third Degree, nine

counts of Sexual Abuse in the Third Degree, one count of Sodomy in the Third Degree, and five counts of Unlawful Delivery of Marijuana Item. David Michael Brandon was associated with the Jewel School District from 2016 to the Spring of 2019 and Knappa School District beginning Fall of 2021

until placed on administrative leave. If anyone has additional information of other victims or witnesses, please contact Detective Jodi Libertad at the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office by calling 503325-8635


Cannon Beach Gazette

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December 10, 2021

CannonBeachGazette.com

CBG21-109

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING CLATSOP COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE JOINT PLANNING COMMISSION / COUNTYWIDE CITIZEN ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Clatsop County Planning Commission and Comprehensive

Plan Update Countywide Citizen Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting at 9:00 AM on Tuesday, December 28, 2021, via GoTo Meeting. The committee will be discussing the following Statewide Planning Goals: • Goal 5 – Open Spaces, Scenic and Historic Areas, and Natural Resources • Goal 7 – Natural Hazards • Goal 9 – Economic

Development • Goal 13 – Energy Conservation Other Goals and policies related to these goals may also be discussed. To join the meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone. https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/836196197 You can also dial in using your phone. United States (Toll Free): 1 866 899 4679

United States: +1 (669) 224-3317 Access Code: 836-196197 An agenda will be posted seven days prior to the hearing at: https://www. co.clatsop.or.us/calendar. All documents are available for inspection at the Clatsop County Planning Division at 800 Exchange St, Suite 100, during normal business hours (M-F 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.) at

no cost. Paper copies may also be obtained at reasonable cost. The full agenda packet is posted at: https:// www.co.clatsop.or.us/calendar. If you have questions about this matter or need more information, please contact the Planning Division at (503) 325-8611 or at comdev@co.clatsop.or.us. Publication dates: Cannon Beach Gazette: December 10, 2021, North

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Coast Citizen: December 16, 2021, Clatskanie Chief: December 17, 2021

Engraving Exit Sunset Custom Engraving Perfect gift for any Occasion. Creating Memories attached to items. www.exitsunsetcb.com or email exitsunsetcb@gmail.com

Dollar Tree raises prices to $1.25 for most items Staff Report

Dollar Tree has kept prices at $1 for 35 years but that is soon changing. The company announced Tuesday, Nov. 23, it will shift to a $1.25 price point for a majority of its items at all stores nationwide by the end of the first quarter of 2022. “We have begun rolling out the $1.25 price point at all Dollar Tree stores nationwide,” Michael Witynski, president and chief executive

officer of Dollar Tree, said in a press release. “The continuing expansion of our key strategic initiatives, including Dollar Tree Plus, Combo Stores and the H2 format, are all going well and on, or ahead of, plan. I am very proud of our team’s efforts – especially those in our stores and distribution centers – to serve our customers by delivering incredible value on everyday products.” In the press release, Dollar Tree states they believe it is the appropriate time to shift away

from the constraints of the $1 price point in order to continue offering “extreme value to customers.” The decision is permanent and not a reaction to short-term or transitory market conditions. According to the company, the new price point will allow the reintroduction of customer favorites that were previously discontinued due to the constraints of the $1 price point. In September, Dollar Tree announced its plan to add additional price points above $1 to

all Dollar Tree Plus Stores on a test-and-learn basis to selected legacy Dollar Tree stores. The company states there was positive customer feedback and store performance during the initial testing phase. The company plans to introduce the new price point in more than 2,000 additional legacy Dollar Tree stores in December and complete the rollout to all stores by the end of the first fiscal quarter of 2022.

Research shows 4-H helps young people excel beyond their peers The structured learning, encouragement and adult mentoring that young people receive through their participation in 4-H plays a vital role in helping them achieve success in life. “The Positive Development of Youth: Comprehensive Findings from the 4-H Study of Positive Youth Development” from Tuft’s University is a longitudinal study that began in 2002 and was repeated annually for

eight years, surveying more than 7,000 adolescents from diverse background across 42 U.S. states. Highly regarded as the first-ever research project of its kind, the study defined and measured positive youth development. Compared to their peers, the report shows that youth involved in 4-H programs excel in several areas. 4-Hers are: · Four times more likely to make contributions to the

communities (grades 7-12) · Two times more likely to make healthier choices (grades 8-12) · Two times more likely to be civically active (grades 8-12) · Two times more likely to participate in science, engineering and computer technology during out-of-school time (grades 10-12); and Girls are two times more likely (grade 10) and nearly three times more likely (grade

12) to take part in science programs compared to girls in other out-of-school time activities. In 4-H, it is believed that every child has valuable strengths and given the chance, can realize their dreams and lead change. 4-H empowers young people to be true leaders with life skills like confidence, teamwork, curiosity and resilience. Youth work in club settings with caring adults to find their

spark and build the knowledge and confidence they need to be responsible adults. As the new 4-H year begins, Clatsop County 4-H has opportunities available to all youth ages 5-19 and for adults who would like to learn leadership skills and share their knowledge with a child. Currently, Clatsop County 4-H is looking for leaders in cooking, sewing, photography and art and is looking for leaders for these areas.

They are also looking for a Lego robotics leaders since and have the Mindstorm and Spike Prime sets. 4-H clubs are ran by trained volunteers with 2-deep leadership. If you have these skills or other skills to share with youth or you would like to join 4-H as a member, please contact the Extension office at 503-325-8573 or email Sandra Carlson at sandra. carlson@oreognstate.edu.


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December 10, 2021

CannonBeachGazette.com

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Cannon Beach Gazette

Windermere Real Estate shares the warmth during winter months

Just in time for winter, real estate brokers throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington are gearing up for Windermere Real Estate’s annual Share the Warmth campaign. Now through Friday, Dec. 17,

Windermere brokers will be collecting winter necessities for community members in need. In the Cannon Beach area, the donations will benefit Lutheran Community Service NW’s Astoria Hope House and the Astoria Res-

cue Mission. The organizations are specifically asking for coats, blankets, sweaters, sweatshirts, hats and gloves in all sizes for both children and adults. Those who want to help can stop by participating

Windermere offices to drop off donations. The Windermere office in Cannon Beach — located at 255 N Hemlock, Suite B1 — is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. “Share the Warmth is a prime example of how Win-

dermere Real Estate brokers and the community at large come together to ensure our neighbors have the warm clothing and other essentials they need throughout the winter,” said Scott Mitchelson, president of Winder-

mere Services Company in Oregon and SW Washington. “Every year, I’m amazed by the generosity of our neighbors and in awe of how our communities collaborate to take care of each other.”

Two North Coast logging firms earn award of merit for their harvest practices Two North Coast logging firms have been honored for their logging practices with an Award of Merit from the Northwest Oregon Regional Forest Practices Committee, an advisory body to the Oregon Board of Forestry. Owner Mike Falleur and his crew at Warrenton-based F and B Logging were honored because of their innovative approach to pumping water from logging road ditches and letting it filter through vegetation or logging slash to remove sediment before it reaches streams.

Andrew Marshall, owner of Marshall Logging in Tillamook, was recognized for work he did to protect a popular hiking trail and trees targeted to remain while harvesting a highly visible timber tract on OSU’s McDonald-Dunn Experimental Forest just outside Corvallis. The committee’s top honor of Operator of the Year for Northwest Oregon went to Aaron Silbernagel, owner of All Around Logging, LLC of Stayton in Marion County for his work helping small landowners salvage log and reforest in the wake of the

2020 Beachie Creek Fire. The Oregon Board of Forestry will recognize awardees at its Jan. 5 meeting in Salem. Regional Forest Practices committees select the operators of the year and merit award recipients from among nominees sent in by landowners, ODF staff and others. The award recognizes forest operators who, while harvesting timber or doing other forestry work, protect natural resources at a level that goes above and beyond requirements of the Oregon Forest Practices Act. That

law requires people to manage forests responsibly and protect streams and water quality, protect and enhance habitat, and reduce landslide risks. The law also requires landowners to replant forests after harvesting. The awards honor operators who consistently meet or exceed Forest Practices Act regulations. Videos about each of the three Operators of the Year and five Merit Award winners can be viewed on the ODF website at https://www. oregon.gov/odf/Working/ Pages/default.aspx

ODF Forest Resources Division Interim Chief Josh Barnard said, “This year’s honorees represent innovation to protect water quality, care in harvesting that leaves an overcrowded forest in a safer, healthier state, and helping others begin to recover in the wake of devastating wildfire. They have shown an outstanding ability to meet landowner objectives while exercising extraordinary care and diligence in challenging harvesting situations. From protecting streams while logging where it rains 90 inches a year to

carefully removing fire-ravaged trees from a beloved family campground, we’re pleased to recognize the leadership and community spirit these operators have shown.” Oregon enacted the Forest Practices Act in 1971 as a national model for forest management laws. The law focuses on ensuring responsible forest operations and protecting natural resources in forestland. The act has been updated many times based on new scientific information and values to create a balanced approach to natural resource management.

Oregon State Parks approves initial park facility improve projects Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission approved an initial list of park capital improvement projects at its regular Nov. 17 meeting that will be funded by the issuance of general obligation bonds. The 2021 Oregon Legislature passed SB 5506 that approved the issuance of $50 million in general obligation bonds to fund the state park facility improvements. “The legislature’s incredibly generous act allows us to make significant and much needed upgrades to facilities and infrastructure, as well as modernize and expand some campgrounds,” said Lisa Sumption, director of the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD). “This support for the park system’s future is especially meaningful as we commemorate our centennial in 2022 and our commitment to provide world-class park experiences.” The agency will receive two disbursements of $25 million each, with the first occurring May 2022 and the second in March 2023. These funds must be spent within three years of payout. A summary of the project

list shown below is broken into the two different project groups based on when they are slated to start general bond funding. Cost estimates are provided as ranges as the agency continues to refine project work. Construction for the May 2022 projects are expected to begin in fall 2022. Initial Park Capital Improvement Project List May 2022 • Beverly Beach Parkwide Rehabilitation: Upgrade outdated electrical systems throughout the campground, as well as upgrade campsites. Current general obligation bond estimate $3-5 million. • Champoeg State Heritage Area Camping Expansion: Add a new camping loop, riverside cabins, and restroom/shower building, as well as possible upgrades to the current drain field or develop an additional drain field and possible electrical and water systems upgrades. Current general obligation bond estimate $3-5 million. • Fort Stevens State Park Guard

House Rehabilitation: Add a new roof and roof structure, repoint the bricks and replace windows and doors, as well as complete exterior access improvements, utilities and landscape improvements to stop water leaks in the basement, and upgrade water, sewer and electrical connections. Current general obligation bond estimate $1-3 million. • Fort Stevens State Park Utilities: Upgrade the utility services to four campground loops, including improving electrical, water, and wastewater utilities and wastewater lift stations. Replace a 1955 shower/restroom, upgrade other restrooms and replace the restroom at the Peter Iredale day-use area. Current general obligation bond estimate $6-8 million. • Kam Wah Chung State Heritage Site Interpretive Center and Collections Building: Expand the park by acquiring city park property and construct new facilities to house a visitor/interpretive center and collections materials. Current general obligation bond estimate $3-5 million. • Portland Women’s Forum State Scenic Viewpoint Restroom

THANK YOU!

and Parking Expansion: Construct a restroom building and expand parking at the Portland Women’s Forum. Initial design work is complete for both a restroom and 100-space parking lot that meets National Scenic Area requirements. Current general obligation bond estimate $2-4 million. • Silver Falls State Park Camping Expansion & North Falls Complex: Begin the north gateway development that includes a campground with restroom/ shower facilities, a North Gateway Visitor Center, and a new North Canyon trailhead and parking lot. Infrastructure improvements such as water, electrical, and sewer systems included, as well as relocation of the current RV dump station. Current general obligation bond estimate $8-10 million. • Smith Rock State Park Visitor Center & Congestion: Build a new visitor center and restroom, as well as complete electrical upgrades, and make parking/traffic improvements to meet current and future visitor needs. Work to include some trail improvements. Current general obligation bond estimate

$4-6 million. March 2023 • Cape Lookout State Park: Relocate A & B loops to higher ground, which includes new roads, new infrastructure and restroom/ shower facilities. Remove facilities that are being lost to ocean erosion. Current general obligation bond estimate $8-10 million. • Milo McIver State Park: Add a second loop with restroom/ shower facilities to the campground. Upgrade the park sewer and water systems. The current water system provides water to both the park and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife fish hatchery within the park. Current general obligation bond estimate $3-5 million. • Nehalem Bay State Park Parkwide Upgrade and Yurt Loop: Upgrade existing utilities in three loops. Add a new cabin loop, tent sites, and new campground restrooms within the campground. Add seasonal staff housing, upgrades to several day-use facilities. Current general obligation bond estimate $5-8 million.

CROSSWORD Good Times and Memories Celebrating Our Life Together

to our sponsors and volunteers! Cannon Beach’s Earth & Ocean Arts Festival raised over $41,000 for five North Oregon Coast environmental non-profits. We gratefully acknowledge all of those who helped achieve this effort!

Earth & Ocean Sponsors Beachcomber Vacation Homes • Wine Shack John Nelson & Coaster Construction • Ben Wienecke Cannon Beach Gallery Group Sponsors Fresh Foods • The Ocean Lodge • The Waves Dena’s Shop on the Corner • Bruce’s Candy Kitchen • Arbor Care Hallmark Resort & Spa • Pelican Pub & Brewing • EVOO Beachcomber Vacation Homes • Driftwood Restaurant Inn at Haystack Rock • Warren House Pub & Bill’s Tavern

Earth & Ocean is partially funded by a grant from the City of Cannon Beach Tourism & Arts Fund

CANNON BEACH GALLERY GROUP cbgallerygroup.com

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