LCL35

A celebration at Depoe Bay Harbor

City Council

At right is a view of the new docks, which replaced the 76-year-old wooden docks that were becoming more and more dangerous.

Governor talks state agency accountability, Trump Administration impact in Oregon

JEREMY C. RUARK

Lincoln County Leader

In a wide-ranging discussion with reporters, Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek stressed state agency accountability, including how the Oregon Department of Transportation spends state dollars.

“We have had a history of not accurately projecting the cost of major projects,” Kotek said. “We have to do a better job there.” Kotek said she wasn’t going to make excuses for the Oregon Department of Transportation.

“We want everyone in the agency to be able to have confidence that when a new transportation package is passed, that the resources will see completed projects on time and on budget. So, we are doing everything we can to make

The Toledo City Council selected an interim city manager at its meeting held Wednesday, Feb. 26 This action was taken following a vote on Feb. 5 to terminate City Manager Doug Wiggins, who had been on paid administrative leave since September of last year. While Wiggins was on leave, the city’s finance director, Amanda Carey, was serving as interim city manager. But Carey resigned her position on Jan. 22 , leaving no one serving in the city manager position. At last week’s meeting, the city council interviewed Roberta Vanderwall and David Clyne during an open session. Vanderwall worked as the manager of the city of Nyssa from 2007 to 2016 , and she was the town manager of Lakeview from 2016 to 2019 Since then she has served as interim city manager for Coquille, interim county administrator for Morrow County, and interim city

The first in a series of local legislative town halls was held Friday, Feb. 28, in Lincoln City, featuring an in-person conversation with Sen. Dick Anderson (R, Lincoln City) and Rep. David Gomberg (D, Otis).

The event was hosted by Oregon Coast Community College and the Small Business

Development Center, and it took place at the OCCC North County Campus. People also gathered at the OCCC campus in Newport to watch a livestream of the event, and dozens of others joined in from their homes via Zoom.

“It’s great to see so many people here and online as well,” Gomberg said as the session got underway at 8 a.m. Both of the legislators gave some opening remarks

and then took questions from the audience and from those watching online.

Gomberg talked about activities at the state capitol in Salem, saying, “The freight train is at full speed, we just don’t know where it’s going yet.” He said many of the issues being dealt with at this session are the same or similar to those addressed in the 2023

New crosswalk in Newport

The new pedestrian crosswalk is complete in Newport on Highway 20, where it intersects with Eads Street. That section of road is a particularly busy crossing for students attending nearby schools. Work was completed last week, and the flashing beacons at the crosswalk were expected to be in use as of this week. (Photo by Steve Card)

One killed, two injured in highway crash

JEREMY C. RUARK

Lincoln County Leader

Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle crash on Highway 18, near milepost 9, in Lincoln County at around 5:20 p.m. on Friday, Feb.

28

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Dodge Ram 1500, operated by 64-year-old Mark Joseph Sutherland, of Portland, failed to drive within its lane and entered the eastbound lane of travel.

A Toyota Rav4, operated by 27-year-old Tayler Harrell, of Poplarville, Mississippi, was traveling within the eastbound lane when it was sideswiped by the Dodge.

A Chevrolet Suburban, operated by 34-yearold Brandon Lavon Gilman, of Willamina,

was traveling within the eastbound lane when the Dodge collided with it head-on.

Sutherland was declared deceased at the scene. Harrell was transported to an area hospital with reported minor injuries. Gilman was transported to an emergency medical center by Lifeflight with serious injuries.

The highway was impacted for approximately 6 hours and 45 minutes.

OSP was assisted by the Lincoln County Medical Examiner’s Office, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Lincoln City Police Department, North Lincoln Fire and Rescue, Pacific West Ambulance and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

MEETINGS

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5

Lincoln County Board of Commissioners: 10

a.m., commission meeting room, county courthouse, Newport. For info, go to www.co.lincoln. or.us.

Lincoln City Library Board: 3:30 p.m., Driftwood Public Library, 801 SW Highway 101 Toledo City Council: 6 p.m., council chambers, city hall.

MONDAY, MARCH 10

Siletz City Council: 5:30 p.m., work session, city hall.

Newport Planning Commission: 6 p.m. work session, 7 p.m. regular session, council chambers, city hall.

Lincoln City City Council: 6 p.m., council chambers, city hall.

Greater Toledo Pool Recreation District

Board: 6 p.m. Toledo Library meeting room, 173 NW Seventh St.

TUESDAY, MARCH 11

Lincoln County School District Board of Directors: 5 p.m. work session, 6:30 p.m. regular session, Waldport Middle/High School. Depoe Bay City Council: 5 p.m., executive session (closed to the public), city hall.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12

North Lincoln Fire & Rescue District #1 Board of Directors: 4 p.m., Bob Everest Station, 2525 NW Highway 101, Lincoln City.

Lincoln City Public Arts Committee: 4 p.m., public works conference room, city hall. Depoe Bay Planning Commission: 6 p.m., city hall.

Renovated Newport shelter opens Feb. 26; Lincoln City location forced to close

After months of undergoing extensive renovations, the Community Shelter and Resource Center’s Newport location at Seventh and Hurbert streets is again providing a safe, affirming overnight refuge for any member of the community, including their pets.

Unfortunately, on the same date that the newly renovated Newport shelter reopened, the Lincoln City shelter was forced to close by order of the local fire marshal.

While extensive renovations at the Lincoln City shelter, including the installation of a sprinkler system, are complete, the county is awaiting a city permit before its private contractor can upsize the outside connection to the water main. Despite the fact that the facility has two on-duty staff overnight, the fire marshal will not allow the shelter to continue operating until the new connection is complete. In the meantime, the county will provide transport and serve Lincoln City people in Newport.

The Newport shelter began its second season of operation at First Presbyterian Church on 12th Street while renovations were underway. This is the second year that church has provided space to shelter guests.

The Housing Authority of Lincoln County, which owns the renovated Seventh and Hurbert building, also hosted shelter clients in its Ocean Spray Family Center.

The renovations, led by Top-to-Bottom Contractors of Newport, includes new flooring, fresh paint, a fire-suppression system, new plumbing throughout, an ADA-compliant bathroom and ADA-compliant entry door, a medical office, a navigation office, a training room, private rooms for individuals with mobility limitations, new windows, new siding, and new exterior paint. Also installed were internet and fiber cables for guest access and safety cameras.

“These improvements will significantly enhance our facility, allowing us to increase capacity with more beds while providing better accommodations for individuals with mobility limitations,” Winter Shelter Program Manager Chantelle Estess

said. “This will offer greater privacy and space, particularly for those who use oxygen machines. Additionally, it will provide more personal time for guests with pets, keeping them separate from the general population.”

The newly built medical office will offer essential health care services, supporting stabilization by meeting individuals where they are in their medical journey. A volunteer physician will provide basic on-site care and referrals.

The navigation office will streamline referrals to outside agencies for mental health services, substance use disorder treatment, and transitional or permanent housing. The training room will focus on staff development in key areas such as deescalation, blood-borne pathogens, human trafficking, and security. It will also host provider agencies like Veteran Services, offering education and support.

“These improvements are designed to create a safe, supportive space for our guests, providing shelter, medical care, meals, and personalized support,” Estess said. “This is a vital first step in stabilizing our guests and working toward ending homelessness.”

“We couldn’t have completed this project

without the incredible efforts of the Housing Authority of Lincoln County, the City of Newport, architect Dietmar Goebel, the Lincoln County Homelessness Advisory Board, First Presbyterian, Top-toBottom Contractors, and all the dedicated subcontractors who played a role,” Health and Human Services Director Jayne Romero said. The Community Shelter and Resource Center is a division of Romero’s department.

“Together, we are providing a safe haven for our unhoused population, opening the door to stabilization and, ultimately, the end of their houselessness,” Romero said.

The total cost of the renovation was $605,000

The city of Newport contributed $250,000, Lincoln County contributed $200 000, and the Lincoln County Homelessness Advisory Board (an intergovernmental body made up of representatives from all the county’s cities, the county, and the Community Services Consortium) contributed $200,000 via House Bill 4123

For more information, including on how to donate or volunteer, visit lincolncountyshelter.com.

Street work continues in north Newport

Work is continuing on improvements to Northwest Biggs Street in north Newport. A water main along the street was installed last year, and work is now underway to build up the road and prepare for paving. This road work is related to the Samaritan Treatment and Recovery Services (STARS) adult residential and outpatient center scheduled to open this summer. Work on Biggs Street is scheduled to continue into May, with traffic at times being reduced to one lane. (Photo by Steve Card)

but only minimal damage was reported on the second vehicle. The Oregon State Police investigated the collision.

Port of Newport brainstorms with seafood processors

Turbulent times for Oregon’s seafood industry was the primary topic at the Port of Newport Commission meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 25. At the heart of that turbulence wasn’t stormy seas but a new wastewater permitting process instituted by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).

Amy Wentworth, Pacific Seafood’s director of environment, health, and safety, addressed the port commission and explained how the new requirements, which are more demanding than those at the federal level or any other state, are impacting processors.

Pacific Seafood operates in five locations in Newport and, in order to meet the new requirements, would have to

either build a new wastewater treatment system for each location or find a way to create a centralized treatment facility.

“In the last couple of years, we started to see that the expectations of the DEQ regulation would require seafood processing locations to invest in treatment systems that range anywhere from $1 million to $5 million dollars,” she explained.

The concern for ports, fishermen, and others in the industry is that the costs of responding to the new regulation could push seafood processors to move their operations to Washington or California.

“Newport is an important landing location for us and, being that we see the financial investment is going to be so high, we’re looking for any

opportunities to partner,” Wentworth said.

Port Executive Director Paula Miranda said the port has been brainstorming with Pacific Seafood to see if there is a solution that would ultimately benefit the fishing fleet and the port.

“We started having this conversation with Pacific Seafood. We have been brainstorming trying to figure out the best way to go about this. Business Oregon has also been involved, and they decided that they would like us to use some of their funds to do some of the investigation necessary,” Miranda said. Since the port would have to make application for the funds, “we are trying to figure out a scope that would help with that,” she added.

Although Pacific

Seafood is the largest processor in Newport, Miranda pointed out the port would only participate in solutions that would also benefit other users, either current or future.

“It would be unusual for the port to apply for something for one sole user,” she said, commenting on the possibility of grant funding to help with infrastructure improvement. “Should we move in that direction, we should look

at other users in Newport or who might come to Newport,” the director said.

Miranda noted that a considerable number of hurdles would have to be cleared in order to move any kind of joint effort forward.

“We are still trying to figure out what it would take, and we need things like a cost-benefit analysis, a feasibility study, and we want to talk about

what happens if this doesn’t get built,” she said. Port Commission

President Gil Sylvia acknowledged the complexities of the project.

“I can speak on behalf of the commissioners that we want to help but recognize that there are financial issues, legal issues, and uncertainties with what DEQ will or won’t’ accept. It is a complex problem,” he said.

Wastewater effluent pipeline in South Beach repaired

A treated effluent pipeline in the South Beach area of Newport has been repaired, and the pipeline’s contents are no longer flowing into Yaquina Bay. The repair comes nearly two months after a leak was discovered, necessitating the pipeline’s diversion of flow.

In total, 30 feet of pipeline was replaced for the repair. Due to the pipeline’s size, custom parts and pipes were required to be ordered and manufactured before the repairs could begin. A special plug that can extend to 30 inches was also utilized to help block the pipeline that exits the city’s wastewater treatment plant.

Newport Public Works Director Robert Moser said they were able to successfully repair the pipeline during the last weekend in February and then monitored its stability and functionality throughout last week. “This is an important infrastructure component to the city’s wastewater treatment system, and it was vital that we were able to provide a long-term repair for the benefit of our community and users of the bay,” he said. “This was truly a coordinated effort from all of our public works teams to complete this project.”

(Courtesy photo)

Effluent wastewater is treated, chlorinated water.

Newport Public Works worked with multiple state agencies, including the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), to ensure there were no impacts to wildlife or the ecosystem throughout the diversion to Yaquina Bay.

On Dec. 28, 2024, a weld that was completed on the pipeline in 2022 failed, causing a separation in the pipeline and

resulting in the diversion of treated wastewater from Newport’s wastewater treatment plant into Yaquina Bay at separate locations on the Bayfront and South Beach.

Newport City Manager Nina Vetter declared a limited emergency on Dec. 30, and the Newport City Council voted to extend the declaration into February on Jan. 6, authorizing the use of funding needed to complete the repair.

Project to restore Forest Road 1861 approved

The Hebo Ranger District on the Siuslaw National Forest has approved a project for temporary improvements to Forest Service Road (FSR) 1861 for administrative use. This allows access for scientific research, monitoring, search and rescue operations, and fire suppression activities. Actions include removing hazard trees, building a temporary bridge, and constructing a retaining wall.

The road is located approximately eight miles north of Lincoln City in the congressionally designated Cascade Head Scenic Research Area (CHSRA). In November 2021, a landslide catastrophically impacted the road in three separate areas a short distance from Highway 101. Initial assessments determined that extensive damage and the potential for additional slides was too significant for a short-term fix.

“Restoring interim administrative access allows critical scientific work to proceed and provides for the safety of Forest Service employees and the public,” said District Ranger Shawn Rivera. “We realize the community desires full access by permanently repairing the road. Unfortunately, this geologically dynamic area requires extensive surveys as we work towards a long-term solution.”

FSR 1861 is the most direct route to the western most point of CHSRA and the popular Hart’s Cove trails. FSR 1861 has been closed to vehicle traffic since the slide occurred. Non-motorized travel — biking and hiking — is permitted by the public. Users may traverse the slide but are encouraged to exercise extreme caution as the terrain is uneven and unstable.

Hart’s Cove can also be reached by hiking from Knights Park through Nature Conservancy managed land or from the Rainforest Trail on the Siuslaw National Forest. Access may be limited to the area as work proceeds this spring. Updates will be posted to the Siuslaw National Forest webpage and social media platforms.

How to contact government officials

Gov. Tina Kotek Citizens’ message line: 503-378-4582 www.governor.oregon.gov

Oregon State Legislature General information line: 1-800-332-2313 www.oregonlegislature.gov

U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley D-Ore. Oregon: 503-326-3386 Washington D.C.: 202224-3753 www.merkley.senate.gov

U.S. Rep. Val Hoyle D-Ore., 4th District Oregon: not yet set up Washington D.C.: 202225-6416 www.hoyle.house.gov

U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden D-Ore. Oregon: 503-326-7525 Washington D.C.: 202-224-5244 www.wyden.senate.gov

State Rep. David Gomberg D-10th district Salem: 503-986-1410 rep.davidgomberg@ oregonlegislature.gov www.oregonlegislature. gov/gomberg

State Sen. Dick Anderson R-5th district Salem: 503-986-1705 sen.dickanderson@ oregonlegislature.gov www.oregonlegislature. gov/anderson

LAW ENFORCEMENT TIP OF THE WEEK

Problem Gambling Awareness Month

March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM), and it’s a great reminder that activities like gambling can become a problem and impact our communities in different ways.

Gambling can be an activity that is used for recreation and fun, but gambling interacts with our brains in the same way alcohol, drugs, and other “loweffort, high-reward” activities do. Because of this, gambling can become an addiction.

“hidden addiction” because it is easy to hide and can be difficult for others to notice, but there are some warning signs you can look for.

PROBLEM GAMBLING WARNING SIGNS

• Distracted with thoughts of gambling

Sheriff Adam Shanks

Problem gambling is the continuation of gambling activities despite personal, social, or financial consequences.

Gambling problems are more than just a money issue. Each year, problem gambling effects our communities with social impacts such as gamblingrelated crime, which can include embezzling money or burglaries and thefts to help pay gambling debts. Aside from the financial and criminal consequences, problem gambling also negatively impacts relationships. For every one person with a gambling disorder, it is estimated that an additional eight to 10 others are affected. Workplaces may see a decrease in productivity, an increase in absences, and other issues if an employee has a gambling disorder. Family and friends often feel replaced by someone’s gambling and can bear the burden of picking up additional responsibilities — both financially, like paying bills on time, and socially, such as increased responsibilities with family, pets, or home care.

Problem gambling is often referred to as the

VIEWPOINT

New proposal takes aim at threats to public officials

RANDY STAPILUS

Oregon Capital Chronicle

• Spending more time and money gambling

• Lying or hiding gambling activity

• Risking or damaging relationships

• Being irritable when not gambling

• Gambling to win back losses (this is also known as chasing losses)

• Exaggerating wins and minimizing losses

• Borrowing money

• Gambling debts

• Missing work or other responsibilities

If you choose to gamble, there are ways to reduce the risk of gambling becoming a problem. Setting a time limit, balancing life with other social and recreational activities, and avoiding alcohol while gambling are some of the recommended responsible gambling guidelines. You can find more responsible gambling guidelines by visiting www.opgr.org/prevention-resources.

In Oregon, free problem gambling treatment and support is available for someone with a gambling disorder and those that may be affected by someone’s problem gambling.

FREE PROBLEM GAMBLING TREATMENT AND SUPPORT

• Phone: 1-877-6954648

• Text: 503-713-6000

• Chat on website: OPGR.org

For more information and tips, visit our website at www.lincolncountysheriff.netand “Like” us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff’sOffice–Oregon.

Elected and other government officials are being threatened more often and in more ways than they were even just a few years ago, and legal pushback has been limited. The effort to counter that wave of intimidation should be broader than most advocates have proposed in the past, but maybe framed in different ways — as an Oregon judge proposed at a legislative hearing during February.

The hearing concerned Senate Bill 473, which would create a new crime of threatening a public official. It was proposed by the city of Eugene, and sponsored by Senator Floyd Prozanski, D-Eugene, who chairs the Senate Judiciary Committee. The measure would target a person who “knowingly delivers or conveys, directly or indirectly and by any means, a threatening communication to a public official or a member of the public official’s immediate family,” and it could be reasonably interpreted as a warning of violence. It would be a misdemeanor first time out, and felony for repeat instances.

Some opposition has arisen. In a few cases, it comes from people arguing it goes too far.

“This seems like a law that would be abused to silence members of the public and limit protected free speech,” one opponent said in written testimony.

The bill’s supporters pointed out, however, that only threats of imminent violence would be covered under its terms. Though differing in some details, it is set up along the lines of existing laws on menacing, harassment, stalking and intimidation.

Similar bills have failed before, but the pressure to take some effective action has grown. One national study released in December said that in 2024 there were about 600 threat and harassment incidents targeting local officials, across almost all states, a number up by 19 percent from the year before and 108 percent the year before that.

In response to the proposal, the Taxpayers Association of Oregon said that, “During a three-year period of the Portland violent protests, the Taxpayers Association of Oregon documented many examples of violent threats placed upon local officials — including state lawmakers. These threats were sometimes placed on public buildings or accompanied by arson and vandalism. Three Portland elected officials had arson events outside their homes.”

The new bill came from the Lane County area partly because of a seeming explosion of threatening messaging there. The city of Eugene cited dozens of threatening emails to attorneys and others in the court system, Eugene’s mayor and chief of police and many others.

Much of the comment about the bill suggested,

however, that limiting a new crime to threats of immediate harm wouldn’t go nearly far enough to address the problem.

The League of Women Voters, for example, urged that doxxing — the use of digital records to harass psychologically, economically and otherwise — should be barred.

Most provocative, though, was committee testimony from a judge of Oregon’s Court of Appeals, Ramon Pagan. Before his current posting, he was a Washington County judge assigned to the family law team. While there in 2021, he encountered a litigant who, he said, behaved without problem at the trial but later began a pattern of threatening behavior. Pagan recalled that the man’s attorney said he “had become delusional, had started forming conspiratorial thoughts about me and had been repeatedly pointing out that he knew where I lived.”

The man started sending online maps showing, among other things, where Pagan and his wife walked their dogs. He even researched and copied paperwork related to his wife’s personal history.

Pagan said his life changed entirely because the man made a veiled threat but knew enough not to be direct about it. This sort of harassment, which also included elements of doxxing, would not be covered by the new Eugene legislation.

Pagan had another suggestion: Instead of basing

a law around prohibiting menacing or harassing conduct, the committee should consider a different angle and orient it instead around the idea of coercion.

“If the intent was either to affect a pending proceeding or to harass a judge for revenge for a prior proceeding it should be enforceable,” Pagan testified.

He suggested that it would be in the government’s interest to prohibit action that impeded or intimidated public officials from doing their jobs, whatever mechanism a harasser used.

That, too, is a complex question, and legislation would have to be crafted carefully to avoid reeling in people who are using their right to speak out in criticism of government action.

But Pagan’s broader argument, focusing on the specific problem resulting from the new-style campaigns of intimidation, probably offers a road map for developing a more effective law. As the Senate Judiciary Committee starts adjusting legislation, that might be something for lawmakers to consider.

Oregon Capital Chronicle(oregoncapitalchronicle.com)ispart of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a501c(3)publiccharity. Oregon Capital Chronicle maintains editorial independence.

sure the agency will to do better. We look forward to new things they would like to do to help us achieve that given the resources we have. We need to get a transportation package done for the safety of our system.”

EDUCATION FUNDING

Kotek also addressed a question concerning needed funding for Oregon schools, saying school districts need to produce better outcomes.

“My recommended budget is a substantial increase in the state school fund,” Kotek said. “There is not a school district in our state that has all the money it needs. I’ve made

a commitment to school districts to offer them the best possible budget in my budget, which I did. Now, the conversation with the school districts is with those dollars, we must better guarantee that there will be increases in reading, math and attendance. These are very important indicators of success for our students. I think we can, with the resources we

Delores D. Peterson

9/29/36 - 1/2/25

Delores was born September 29, 1936 in Algona, Iowa to Leola Mary Sherod and Howard Westcott. She grew up in Missouri and Oregon.

She met Pete (LeeRoy) Peterson dancing at Cottonwood. After his discharge from Korea in 1956, they were married 57 years and raised 5 children. (He passed in 2014.)

In addition to homemaking, Delores worked several jobs. Her favorite was church secretary in Toledo over 15 years where they were actively involved. Pastor Charles called them, “precious people who served as ‘heroes of the faith’, always abounding in the work of the Lord.” Delores was an author and Bible Study teacher. She enjoyed family, friends, grandchildren, ‘visiting’ and Gaithers.

She is survived by children Howard Peterson (Odallys), Jeanine Wenning and Misty Thomas. (Katye Grace and Mitchell preceded her in death). She is also survived by her siblings Gary, Mary, Pat, Jeanette, Romana and Sinda, 11 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren, (many other Greats and Grands called her Grandma as well) as many nieces and nephews who she loved. She was also preceded in death by two sets of parents, and brothers Bob and Billy. In lieu of flowers, donate to youth missions at Crawfordsville Calvary Chapel Church. https://crawfordsvillecc.org.

Celebration of Life was held on January 11, 2025 at Crawfordsville Calvary Chapel, Crawfordsville OR 97336.

Robert LeRoy “Butch”Newton

November 18, 1938 - February 15, 2025

Robert LeRoy “Butch”Newton was born at home on November 18, 1938 in Newport, Oregon. He passed peacefully, surrounded by family and friends, on February 15, 2025, at his home in Toledo, Oregon.

Preceded in death by his son Robert Lyle “Bobby” Newton, parents Robert and Ruth Newton, brothers Billy Clark, Victor Newton, Ralph Newton and granddaughter Jesskia Henrickson.

He is survived by his wife, Betty , his children Rene’ (Tom) Omlid of Mayville, ND, Rachelle (Walt) Durgeloh of Vancouver,WA, Rhonda Greene of Albany, OR and Ryan (Charlene) Newton of Springfeld, OR, Sister Roxanne Moody of Madras, OR, 11 Grandchildren, 16 Great Grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Butch attended 13 elementary schools until the family fnally settled in Waldport, Oregon, where he graduated in 1957. He excelled in Football, Basketball and Track. He still holds the javelin record at Waldport with an amazing 198 foot toss.

After graduating, he married his high school sweetheart Betty Sjostromon August 31, 1957 and they just celebrated 67 years of marriage in 2024.

Butch worked for GP for over 40 years, working at the plywood mill first, then at the paper mill until 2001 when he retired. He attended night school to become a journeyman Millwright. He used his welding skills to work on various things for church camp. He had a strong work ethic, which he passed on to his children and grandchildren. He coached little league baseball in his younger years, played on a basketball team, competing against Job Corps teenagers, was on a bowling league and could throw a mean horseshoe. He was active in the Boomer booster club and supported his children in their sports and activities. Even after his children were raised, he supported other people’s children by traveling to watch them compete at state competitions.

Friendly competition was always brewing, like a pot of hot coffee, with Butch. You would often find him playing a fierce game of cribbage with his dad or brother, and then with one of his own children or grandchildren later in life. If he knew you were coming to visit, he would be sitting at the table, shuffling the cards, as you opened the door waiting for another “win” for the books.

Camping and hunting were favorite pastimes, often combining the two. Whether it was packing up the trailer and traveling up to Copalis, WA to dig clams or heading out to Eastern Oregon to hunt deer and elk, always with plenty of family and friends. Believe it or not, Butch was the Elk Camp cook for many years. His now infamous saying was “come and get it, or I’m throwing it out!”

When you think of people who “never met a stranger”, you should think of Butch. He and Betty would offer their home to anyone who needed a place to stay or even as a temporary home, while they needed a helping hand, never asking for anything in return.

Butch started going to the Missionary Baptist Church with Betty in 1982, and his life changed, when he accepted the Lord, Jesus Christ, as his personal Savior. In Luke 9:62, it says “And Jesus said unto him, no man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.” Butch took that verse and applied it to his own life. He couldn’t hold on to the old ways any longer and asked Jesus into his heart. He was an active church member from that point on and was a charter member of the Toledo Missionary Baptist Church, until his death.

Whether you knew the “Old Butch” or the “New Butch”, you will always remember him as a happy man who had no regrets and lived a full and happy life…oh, and always with a coffee cup and thermos full of coffee.

OBITUARY POLICY

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have, do a better job. I am focused on accountability with the existing resources that we have.”

TRUMP ADMINISTRATION

When asked about the impact on Oregon following the Trump Administration’s executive orders, Kotek responded by stating, “There is a lot of fear. The federal administration has been very clear about their goals around deporting undocumented residents.”

Kotek added, “What my office is trying to do is to be very clear to

TOLEDO

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manager for Union.

Clyne served in city administrator positions in Buena Visa and Morrison in Colorado. In Oregon, he was the city administrator in Brownsville from 2002 to 2006 , and then in Junction City from 2006 to 2010 . He became the city manager in Independence in 2010 and retired from that position in 2018 . Since leaving his position in Independence, he has served as an interim city manager in Falls City, Gresham and Cottage Grove.

folks who provide public services what the role is with our sanctuary laws. We have been working very diligently to help educate communities about what their rights are under the law. At the end of the day, the fear is real. People are staying away from businesses because they fear immigration enforcement. What I can say to Oregonians is we will uphold our law and do the best we can under the situation that is coming out of the federal government.”

As to losing federal funds, Kotek said she wants state agencies to

A third candidate, Don Horton, was also scheduled to be interviewed by the Toledo City Council, but the day before the council meeting, he withdrew from consideration. “He picked up some more contracts with his other work, so he didn’t feel he could give us the time that he thought he wanted to,” explained Toledo Mayor Rod Cross.

After interviewing the two candidates, Clyne was offered the position of interim city manager, with details of his employment to be worked out with City Attorney Mike Adams. At the time, Cross felt

DEATH NOTICES

PATRICIA ‘PATTI’ BENSONLITTLEHALES

Patricia “Patti” Benson-Littlehales, 81, of Newport, Oregon, passed away on Nov. 23 2024 She was born on March 9, 1943, to

focus on the Oregon budget.

“I think it will be quite awhile before we see the impact of any potential restrictions on federal funding,” she said. “So, right now we need to focus on passing a budget that meets our needs.”

Other topics discussed included Kotek’s pause on appeals over the state’s new wildfire map, saying she wants to provide state legislators more time to discuss the issue.

Kotek conducted the news briefing from the Oregon State Library in Salem Monday afternoon, Feb. 24

Clyne could be on the job as early as this week. When asked what made Clyne the council’s top choice, Cross said it was his depth of experience. “He’s been in several cities, large and small. We need to start thinking outside the box, and David looks to have the experience on how to do that, so we are looking forward to having him come on and bring some leadership back into city hall.”

The city council will next begin taking steps toward finding a new, permanent city manager, but Cross said the details of that process haven’t been worked out yet.

Eric Vernon and Dorothy Benson, and she grew up in Portland, Oregon.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 1 p.m. on March 9 at the Newport Performing Arts Center, located at 777 W Olive St.

Raymond Pitzer

October 12, 1930 - December 6, 2024

Raymond Theodore Pitzer was born to parents John and Rosa (Barber) Pitzer on October 12, 1930, in the small tow of Airlie, Oregon. He and his 6 sibling were raised in Dallas, Oregon. His father was employed by the railroad and mother Rosa was a homemaker busy raising seven children. Ray began his logging career in his early 20’s and spent 30 years in the logging industry. He married Linda Ezzell Pitzer on January 20, 1968 in Cottage Grove, Oregon. He and Linda moved to the London Springs area, 15 miles outside of Cottage Grove, where he logged for Weyerhauser. Their daughter, Mary, was born in 1970, and son Raymond Jr. (Ted) born in 1973. Nearby were his sister, Mona (Tab) Coonrod and sister Sharon (Gene) Cooper. In 1975, Ray left the logging industry and moved to Newport, Oregon, where he purchased a salmon troller and began commercial fishing the west coast until 1988, at which time he

retired and sold his boat. He was a professional knife sharpener and sharpened knives for restaurants and fish processing plants on the Newport bayfront. Ray was an iconic Oregon outdoorsman. He was happiest in the great Oregon outdoors. He was an avid deer and elk hunter and spent many years hunting central and eastern Oregon and catfishing on the Brownlee reservior with friends and relatives. He and his family spent time every summer camping on the high lakes of central Oregon. Ray died on Decelmber 6, 2024 at the age of 94. He is survived by wife Linda, and daughter, Mary (Dave), and son, Ted (Breann); beloved grandchildren, Sydney and Raymond; brother Jack (Jeanne) Pitzer of Seattle and sister Sharon Cooper of Cottage Grove; along with numerous nieces and nephews. He will be greatly missed by all.

A private service will held for family.

Claudette Schroeder

1945 - 2025

Claudette was born in Baltimore, MD, in 1945, to Alice and LeRoy Corcoran.. She graduated from St. Francis de Sales High School and attended Riverside City College and UCLA. She worked for construction management firms; later worked for the federal government.

Claudette married the love of her life, Richard Schroeder in 1974. When Richard retired from the Los Angeles Police Dept. in 1989, they fulfilled their dream to travel around the United States, especially the National Parks. In 2001, they returned to the family homestead, Richard’s birthplace in Lincoln Beach, OR.

Claudette cherished the many friends she made through her hobbies and church. She was a charter member of the Oregon Coast Avid Stampers (ORCAS), and was proud of their project “Cards for Troops To Send Home.” The ORCAS have supplied the troops with over 300,000 greeting cards to send home to family and friends.

At the urging of a friend, Claudette became part of the Circle of Friends and enjoyed years of wonderful friendship and fun.

When she realized she wasn’t in her California garden anymore, Claudette

looked for help from the Lincoln County Master Gardeners and soon signed up for training. She became a Certified Master Gardener (MG) in 2007 and served as their president in 2011 and co-president in 2012. Growing plants in the two fantastic greenhouses Claudette and planting partner, MG Gayle Buck contributed hundreds of plants to the annual LCMGA Spring Garden Sale.

Claudette was a parishioner of St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, and Secretary of the Pastoral Council. As an evangelization project, she researched church history and created displays depicting the history for visitors and parishioners alike to enjoy.

Preceded in death by her parents and brother, Michael, Claudette is survived by her sons, Ryan Schroeder (Robyne), Michael Schroeder, the wonderful people of the ORCAS, Circle of Friends, LCMGA, and St.Augustine’s who enhanced her life. Requiem Mass will be celebrated on March 6th at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, Lincoln City. Claudette’s services will begin at 9:30 with a reception to follow the memorial mass.

Memorial contributions may be made to any of the mentioned organizations

LINCOLN COUNTY LEADER STAFF

This is a brief look back at what made the news in Lincoln County during this week in history.

25 YEARS AGO (2000)

PROPOSAL UNVEILED FOR ‘VILLAGE OF TAFT’

A standing-room-only crowd showed up at the Taft Fire Hall Tuesday night to hear the results of an intense, weeklong process to generate ideas and designs for the Lincoln City Urban Renewal Taft Redevelopment Project.

Hundreds of hours of work came down to a new vision for Taft. One phase involves rebuilding Southwest 51st Street to create a “festival street” with a sense of place and economic vitality.

NEWPORT APPROVES SATURDAY MARKET PLANS

The Newport City Council approved plans to hold a Saturday Market on city land at the council’s meeting Tuesday.

Lisa Noah, economic development director for the Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce, asked the council to approve the use of the Newport City Hall parking lot for a future Saturday Market. Noah said she hopes the market will help jumpstart Newport‘s slumping economy.

SCHOOL DISTRICT CONTINUES TO FACE SHORTAGE OF TEXTBOOKS

Out-of-date textbooks, or simply not enough textbooks to go around, are issues continuing to face the Lincoln County School District.

Because of budget cuts in the recent past, the school district has fallen behind on its regular cycle for new textbook adoptions. But despite massive budget cuts expected again for next year, district officials are attempting to address the textbook issue.

SAMARITAN HEALTH TAKES OVER MANAGEMENT OF NORTH LINCOLN TODAY

The interim management agreement between North Lincoln Health District and Samaritan Health Services takes effect today, March 1

The agreement is the result of months of work by the NLH Board of Directors to find a suitable affiliate partner for the struggling facility; it is also the first step toward a long-term arrangement between North Lincoln and Corvallis-based Samaritan Health.

50 YEARS AGO (1975)

FIRE DESTROYS TOLEDO TRACK EQUIPMENT

Toledo Fire Department personnel battled a blaze that started in the Toledo High School track equipment building shortly after noon on Wednesday, Feb. 26

The fire completely destroyed the building and its contents. All Boomer track equipment — such as 70 hurdles, 12 starting boxes, 12 vaulting poles, high jump pits and pole vault pits — were consumed by the blaze.

TOWN HALL

From Page A1

long session, “and that is the affordability and the availability of housing, the affordability and the availability of health care, the quality of our education, … wildfires.”

He said there is also the emerging issue of how the state is going to pay for improvements to the transportation infrastructure as the revenue coming in from gasoline tax declines. “Because we’re all buying less gasoline,” said Gomberg. “Since gas taxes are the main source of revenue, not only for the state but also for your local highways and roads, we’ve got to figure out how we’re going to pay for all of that.” Gomberg added that the state legislature is also dealing with a degree of uncertainty from the federal government.

“And when I say uncertainty, what I’m talking about is whether tariffs are going to effect our Oregon economy,” he said. “We’re an export state. If countries that we trade with implement tariffs as well, will that affect our ability to export our agriculture products, our computer chips … and if so, how are tariff’s going to affect

Dale Hargett, Toledo track coach, estimated $5 000 to $10,000 worth of equipment was inside the building.

COUNTY CONSIDERS VOTING MACHINES

County commissioners have referred to the budget committee a proposal for a punch card machine voting system, which could save the county $7,000 in election board payments for the 1976 primary.

Total initial cost of equipment would range from $61 000 to $70 000, the study says.

MARINA, LNG PLANT GIVEN YBTF PRIORITY

Development of the South Beach Marina and related complex was given first priority for action by members of the Yaquina Bay Task Force this week.

Assistance to the Northwest Natural Gas Co. in completion of the proposed liquefied natural gas plant at McLean Point on the bay was given second priority.

The task force was recently reactivated after about a year. The task force several years ago took the leadership in completion of the Yaquina Bay plan, which has served as a model for the state and nation.

DA STARTS STUDY OF SCHOOL PETITIONS

Deputy District Attorney Bob Huckleberry is studying the petitions submitted last week by Hugh Grondin, Lincoln City, seeking formation of a North Lincoln County School District.

County Clerk Alberta Bryant turned the petitions over to Huckleberry. She says the petitions do not conform to the requirements set out in state law and are merely advisory in nature.

75 YEARS AGO (1950)

PARKING METERS ORDERED BY COUNCIL

All-day parking will be eliminated on Newport’s main streets with the installation of parking meters three weeks hence.

The city council Monday voted to contract with the H. D. Fowler Company of Portland for 210 meters for a nine-month trial period.

The meters will be installed on Coast Highway through town from the grade school to the city hall (Angle to Alder streets), on both sides of the street, and a block in both directions on the main side streets.

RADIO STATION RECEIVES WORD ON WATTAGE

Personnel of radio station KNPT have been informed that their application for an increase in power and a change in the wavelength has been received by the Federal Communications Commission in Washington, D. C.

The application asked for an increase in power from 250 watts to 1000 watts and a change on the dial from 1230 to 1310

NYE BEACH COUPLE DIE FROM GUNSHOTS

Tragedy struck Wednesday afternoon in the Nye Beach home of Ernest L. Murray and his wife, Marian, when their children returned home from school and found their parents dead.

It has been tentatively ascertained that the tragedy was murder and suicide.

DR. BARKER PAGED BY HAM OPERATOR

Proof that ham radio fans stick together was evident to Dr. Henry Barker this week when he received a phone call from Portland telling him that a patient of his needed attention.

The patient was in the Newport area, but the phone lines were down and he resorted to a radio SOS, which was picked up in Portland.

100 YEARS AGO (1925)

R. B. COOPER IS KILLED AT MILL WEDNESDAY EVE

The life of R. B. Cooper, 28 years old, was instantly snuffed out Wednesday evening about 6:30 while he was working on one of the big carriers at the Pacific Spruce Mill, being caught between a log and a part of the machine, crushing his head and body.

Mr. Cooper was a married man and the father of two children, a baby 5 months old and a little girl 3 years old.

This was the first fatal accident that has happened at the Pacific Spruce Mill since its start here three years ago.

LOCAL MAN IS ESCAPED CONVICT FROM WYOMING PRISON

Toledo has been harboring for the past three months an escaped convict from the state of Wyoming in the person of one Harry Gordon, alias H. McGuire, who has been employed at the Cozy Lunch for the past two months.

This fact was discovered last Friday upon the arrival of Sheriff D. C. Oakley of Lincoln County, Wyoming. Mr. Oakley immediately got in touch with Sheriff G. H. Horsfall’s office and displayed Gordon’s picture. Gordon, alias McGuire, was arrested at the Cozy Lunch. The visiting sheriff left with his prisoner for Wyoming the same day.

FUR DEALERS GET FINES AND RUN OUT OF TOWN

Two men, who gave their names as McMillen, were picked up last week by Marshal Schenck and hauled before City Recorder Miller after residents of the city had complained about them.

The McMillens were attempting to sell what was thought to be cheap fur to residents, representing their goods to be very expensive, direct from Alaska. They were fined $10 each for selling goods without a license and ordered to leave town.

MILL FOUR FARMERS PLAN TO RECLAIM FERTILE TIDELANDS

Farmers of Mill Four District, which centers around Moody Station between Toledo and Yaquina, have through a series of recent meetings arrived at an agreement for the diking of between 1 000 and 1 200 acres of tideland. This will mean a decided asset to this county, and this town in particular.

our state economy?” He said there is also the question of immigration and what changes that will mean at the local level.

“We’re also looking at cuts, reductions or eliminations (to federal funding). They affect us in a real and often very personal way as well,” he said. “For example, my budget committee on transportation comes in to review three federal grants one morning and we find out the grants have been withdrawn. They are no longer available, so we’re not submitting those requests.

“We’re losing rangers at our local parks, like at Yaquina Lighthouse, where they lost two-thirds of their staff there,” he added. “And an increasing concern to me is the impact on our science community. We are losing people at Hatfield. For example, we’ve got an oyster virus that’s creeping up the West Coast and will soon land on our oyster industry here in Oregon, and the people that were tasked with studying that and finding out how to deal with it don’t have jobs anymore.”

Most recently, many positions within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

were cut, which has an impact on NOAA operations at the Hatfield Marine Science Center and at the NOAA Marine Operations Center –Pacific on Yaquina Bay.

“The estimated impact on our employee base in Lincoln County if we lost NOAA would be about 600 people,” Gomberg said. “But as we lose staff there, we’re losing the people that maintain and support the vessels there so they can do their important work.”

Gomberg added, “We’re at risk of losing (NOAA) weather forecasting. It’s really important if you’re a fisherman — you want to know what the day’s going to look like when you get out on the water, and (weather forecasting) is also important to a lot

of us.” The science being carried out by federal employees in Newport matters, said Gomberg, “and we’ve got a worldclass institution here trying to address the challenges of climate change, acidification, rising water levels, warming water trends, all of those things … and we’re losing the people that were working on it.”

Anderson told those at the town hall, “About 31 percent of our state budget is federal dollars, so these agencies all impact us. The challenge certainly is the uncertainty.”

Anderson said that as the Oregon Legislature is looking at the budgets that include federal funding, it’s important to keep “a plan B” in mind

if those dollars go away.

“So there’s still a lot of work going on inside of the buildings about what is plan B. What do we do to keep things operating. That creates a lot of concern and busywork,” he said.

Another big issue in the legislature is that of policy development. “Some of my areas of concern have always been to develop local government and what makes a city healthy,” he said.

Housing remains a huge issue in the state, Anderson said. It has been two years since newly elected Gov. Tina Kotek declared a housing emergency in Oregon, “and the disappointment is we’ve actually lost ground. We have more people homeless, and we have less housing being permitted. We were putting out an average of 20 000 units a year. We’re down to 14,000-15,000,” he said.

“Our challenges still exist. It has been declared as an emergency, and it is, and we have to start acting like it. That means not just talking about it but doing things differently than what we’ve been doing, That means looking at ways to make it easier to get housing built,” said Anderson. “I like to think we’re

gaining some ground on that, (but) I can’t share much enthusiasm there. When I look at the bills that are coming through, they’re not immediate help. I think time is of the essence. The time that it takes from a concept to actual construction is way too long, and that’s regulation.”

Another problem Anderson talked about is that of early child care.

“It used to be a desert, (and) it continues to be a problem,” he said.

“Much like housing, I’m looking at regulation because we don’t have enough child care, especially on the coast. We’ve got barriers in the way — one being facilities and also licensing.

“We’ve got a long way to go (but) I’m hopeful,” Anderson said of this year’s legislative session.

“It seems a little bit better than other sessions from my point of view.”

OCCC will be holding these legislative town halls monthly during this year’s legislative session. The next one will take place on March 28. It will also be held in Lincoln City, with options for viewing online. Gomberg and Anderson may not always be there in person, but if not, they will be taking part online from Salem.

Overleaf Event Center reopens for corporate and special events

Overleaf Event Center, located in Yachats on the property of Overleaf Lodge & Spa along Oregon’s picturesque central coast, is now available for corporate and special events of up to 50 people.

Recently refreshed with updated flooring, the event center is ideal for small to mid-sized gatherings, including group retreats, family reunions, employee team-building events and a variety of club activities.

“We are excited to help make special events like these a reality,” said Drew Roslund, co-operator of Overleaf Properties with his wife, Kristin. “Our beautiful grounds and spaces provide a really immersive, memorable experience for guests.”

Just a short walk from Overleaf Lodge & Spa, the event center is nestled within a majestic stand of coastal trees. French doors open onto a large deck on the west side of the building, perfect for outside entertaining. Inside, the event center offers flexible seating and set-up configurations, including banquet seating, and board room and classroom-style setups. And it’s only a few minutes’ walk to reach the oceanfront 804 Trail along the dramatic coastline. Heather Tincher-Overholser, general manager, says the staff at Overleaf Lodge & Spa is friendly and easy to work with, too. “If you want food at your event, we can recommend local caterers, or you’re welcome to bring your own food.”

For those who want to elevate or extend their event

The Overleaf Event Center accommodates up to 50 people and is just steps away from Overleaf Lodge & Spa, overlooking the ocean. Located in Yachats, the event center is the perfect place for reunions, celebrations, club meetings/activities or corporate retreats. (Courtesy photo)

experience, lodging accommodations, only a short walk, include Overleaf Lodge & Spa, The Fireside Motel and Overleaf Cottage Rentals, all operated by the Roslunds. Overleaf Spa is open to the public, offering massages, facials and signature spa treatments, available by appointment. Access to the ocean view, indoor soaking tubs at Overleaf Spa are a complimentary amenity for Overleaf

Lodge guests and are open to the public with a purchased day pass.

Those seeking more information about event center rentals and pricing should fill out the online inquiry form and anticipate a timely response. Include the date of your event, if you know it, and the number of people planned for attendance. To book overnight lodging, make reservations online at overleaflodge.com,

firesidemotel.com or overleafcottagerentals.com. About Overleaf Properties Overleaf Lodge & Spa opened in 1997 and is a family-owned business that prides itself on making each guest, employee and community member feel at home. Located oceanside in Yachats, the lodge provides a premier central Oregon coast experience to visitors looking to get away, relax, refresh and

enjoy the beauty of the sea. Flanking Overleaf Lodge & Spa are its sister properties The Fireside Motel, a casual and pet-friendly motel that serves as a jump-off point for many oceanside adventures, Overleaf Cottage Rentals, the perfect home away from home, and Overleaf Event Center. Go online to learn more about their combined community contributions. Follow along on Facebook or Instagram.

Calendar of EVENTS

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5

Lincoln City Cribbage Club

The Lincoln City Cribbage Club meets at 4 p.m. every Wednesday at Pioneer Joe Coffee Co. in the Marketplace at Salishan, 7755 Highway 101 , Gleneden Beach. $ 9 entry, six games. Forget the rest, come play with the best. Info: Jack Shumate, 541 - 574 - 7668

Live music by Box and Bucket

Box and Bucket, featuring renowned Nashville guitarist Porter McClister and electric washtub bass player Barbara LePine, performs from 5 : 30 p.m. to close every Wednesday at Luna Sea Fish House, 10111 Pacific Coast Highway 101 , Seal Rock. Info: www. lunaseafishhouse.com

Trivia Night

Enjoy Trivia Night from 6 to 7 : 30 p.m. at Beachcrest Brewing, located in suite E 5 at the Salishan Marketplace, 7755 Highway 101 Gleneden Beach. Free. Show off your knowledge for the chance to win prizes. Teams of up to six allowed.

Live music at the Drift Inn

The Harlan Rivers Band performs from 6 to 8 : 30 p.m. at The Drift Inn, located at 124 Highway 101 N in Yachats. For information, call 541 - 547 - 4477

National Theatre Live in HD

See National Theatre Live’s production of “Nye,” staring Michael Sheen, on screen in HD at the Newport Performing Arts Center at 7 p.m. For tickets: call 541 - 265 - 2787 , visit coastarts.org/events, or stop by the PAC box office at 777 W Olive St.

THURSDAY, MARCH 6

‘Restoring the Alsea Basin’ Restoration of two creeks in the Alsea basin is documented in a short film that premiers at the Pacific Maritime Heritage Center, 333 SE Bay Blvd., Newport. 6 : 30 to 8 p.m. Tickets free, but $ 10 donation suggested. Get tickets at https://tinyurl.com/yncpmxhv Winter Lecture Series

Newport Parks and Recreation’s Winter Lecture Series at the rec center ( 225 SE Avery St.) presents “Born This Way; The Trans Experience,” with Marci Frederic of Central Coast Trans Community. 6 p.m. Info: www.facebook.com/newportparksandrec/events

Yachats Big Band

Join the Yachats Big Band from 7 to 9 : 30 p.m. at the Yachats Commons, 441 Highway 101 N. The band plays dances featuring big band classics on the first Thursday of every month. Admission is $ 5 for adults, free for children under 12

FRIDAY, MARCH 7

Bird Walk in Lincoln City

Capes Bird

Hannah Paysinger at the Drift Inn

Hannah Paysinger performs from 6 to 8 : 30 p.m. at The Drift Inn, located at 124 Highway 101 N in Yachats. For information, call 541 - 547 - 4477

‘Something Rotten’ at the PAC

Coastal Act Productions presents “Something Rotten,” 7 p.m., Newport Performing Arts Center, 777 W Olive St. Tickets: $ 18 adults, $ 16 for seniors and students. Purchase at the PAC box office, by calling 541 - 265 - 2787 or online (extra fees apply) at coastarts.org.

SATURDAY, MARCH 8

Bayfront Streets Cleanup

Volunteers are needed for a Community Bayfront Spring Streets Cleanup from 8 to 11 a.m. Meet in the back parking lot at Newport City Hall, 169 SW Coast Highway. Drinks and snacks will be provided.

Petal Heads Nursery at Connie Hansen Garden Growers of outstanding annuals and perennials will give a free talk for hortiholics, plant nerds and garden gurus at 11 a.m. at Connie Hansen Garden, 1931 NW 33 rd St., Lincoln City. Followed by plant sale. Info: conniehansengarden.com or 541 - 994 - 6338

‘Something Rotten’ at the PAC

Coastal Act Productions presents “Something Rotten,” 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., Newport Performing Arts Center, 777 W Olive St. Tickets: $ 18 adults, $ 16 for seniors and students. Purchase at the PAC box office, by calling 541 - 265 - 2787 or online (extra fees apply) at coastarts.org.

AML Trio at Beachcrest

The AMT Trio, a foot-stomping Celtic folk band, performs from 5 : 30 to 7 : 30 p.m. at Beachcrest Brewing Company at Salishan, 7755 N Highway 101 , 541 - 234 - 4013

Celtic Light Orchestra

The Celtic Light Orchestra performs a dazzling show like no other at 7 p.m. at the Lincoln City Cultural Center, 540 NE Highway 101 Tickets and info: 541 - 994 - 9994 or lincolncity-culturalcenter.org.

SUNDAY, MARCH 9

Celtic Light Orchestra

The Celtic Light Orchestra performs a dazzling show like no other at 2 p.m. at the Lincoln City Cultural Center, 540 NE Highway 101 Tickets and info: 541 - 994 - 9994 or lincolncity-culturalcenter.org.

Argentine Tango

Learn Argentine Tango at Newport Tango’s weekly Sunday lesson and practice. 5 to 8 p.m., South Beach Community Center, 3024 SE Ferry Slip Road.  Info: www.newportdancestango.com or newportdancestango@gmail.com

Barbara Lee Turrill at the Drift Inn

Barbara Lee Turrill performs beginning at 6 p.m. at The Drift Inn, located at 124 Highway 101 N in Yachats. For information, call 541 - 547 - 4477

MONDAY, MARCH 10

Live music at the Drift Inn Lavinia Ross performs performs on

TUESDAY,

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12

Club meets at 4 p.m. every Wednesday at Pioneer Joe Coffee Co. in the Marketplace at Salishan, 7755 Highway 101 , Gleneden Beach. $ 9 entry, six games. Forget the rest, come play with the best. Info: Jack Shumate, 541 - 574 - 7668 Trivia Night

Enjoy Trivia Night from 6 to 7 : 30 p.m. at Beachcrest Brewing, located in suite E 5 at the Salishan Marketplace, 7755 Highway 101 Gleneden Beach. Free. Show off your knowledge for the chance to win prizes. Teams of up to six allowed.

Live music by Box and Bucket

Box and Bucket, featuring renowned Nashville guitarist Porter McClister and electric washtub bass player Barbara LePine, performs from 5 : 30 p.m. to close every Wednesday at Luna Sea Fish House, 10111 Pacific Coast Highway 101 , Seal Rock. Info: www. lunaseafishhouse.com

SATURDAY, MARCH 15

‘From Lens to Literature’

Willamette Writers Coast Chapter gathers from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Newport Public Library, 35 NW Nye St. Bill Posner, children’s author, will cover the development of his characters, how his photography influences his writing. Free. Info: newportoregon.gov/dept/lib

Wild Hog in the Woods

Enjoy a mix of music by Wild Hog in the Woods from 5 : 30 to 7 : 30 p.m. at

SUNDAY, MARCH 16

Earth Summit

Atonement Lutheran Church, 2315 N Coast Highway, Newport, hosts the 12 th annual Oregon Interfaith Earth Summit. 1 to 4 p.m. Registration is by donation but is encouraged in advance — emoregon.org/events.

Four new ‘Live @ the PAC’ concert events set

The Oregon Coast Council for the Arts (OCCA) is pleased to present four new “Live @ the PAC” concert events at the Newport Performing Arts Center March 16–April 4

First, on Sunday, March 16 at 3 p.m., the PAC welcomes Marty Isenberg’s Wes Anderson Playlist. Described as a sonic storyboard and soundtrack to the wonder, loneliness, and nostalgia of life in the modern world, the live concert features Marty’s own Wes-Andersoninspired spin on songs by artists like David Bowie, Nick Drake, and the Velvet Underground through the lexicon of jazz orchestration and improvisation. (coastarts.org/ events/marty-wes-anderson)

Next, on Friday, March 21 at 7:30 p.m., the PAC presents Broken Compass Bluegrass. Known for their tight arrangements, tasteful picking, and distinguished songwriting, this northern California-based band offers a fresh take on bluegrass from musicians Kyle Ledson, Django Ruckrich, Mei Lin Heirendt, and Sam Jacobs. Their energy is palpable as they weave intricate melodies and harmonize with ease, transporting fans to a place where tradition meets innovation. Whether you’re a die-hard bluegrass aficionado or just looking for some foot-stomping fun, this one-night-only event is sure to leave folks of

Seven Capes Bird Alliance offers March bird walks

This month, Seven Capes Bird Alliance welcomes birders of all abilities to enjoy two peaceful woodland walks — one in the heart of Lincoln City and another at a new site just north of Tillamook.

On Friday, March 7, from 9 to 11 a.m., a bird walk will take place in Lincoln City at the Spring Lake Open Space. This is a hidden treasure within the city limits, about a quarter mile from Highway 101 on Northeast 14th Street. Except for the paved trail at the top, most trails are muddy and uneven, but it’s worth the effort to feel so secluded. The trail follows the lake edge closely most of the way. Those taking part will

Diane Harris from Stash Bandit, a quilter and quilt designer, will present “Build with Bricks: Scrap Basket Magic” at the next meeting of the Oregon Coastal Quilters Guild, which takes place on Thursday, March 13, at Atonement Lutheran Church, 2315 N Coast Highway, Newport.

“Table walk,” which offers the opportunity to see and participate in various guild activities, begins at 12:30 p.m.; the general meeting starts at 1 p.m. The public is welcome to attend the meeting at no charge.

Harris’ trunk show of quilts made from one simple shape will inspire

creative efforts. Learn how easily bricks can be reimagined, altered and combined into innovative designs. These quilts are proof that simplicity can be stunning and that diverse fabrics can be brought together into unique, beautiful quilts with just a few tricks.

Harris, a quilter for 50 years, will join the meeting via Zoom from Nebraska. She was editor of Quiltmaker Magazine for 11 years and had quilt patterns in McCall’s Quilting, Quick Quilts and Quiltmaker magazines. Learn more about her at stashbandit. net or on Instagram @ stashbanditquilts. Join the guild on Friday, March 14, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. when they make more community donations, quilts, baby burp cloths, blankets, etc. at the same location, Atonement Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall. Supplies

The Oregon Coast Community College Foundation will host its seventh annual “Pearls of Wisdom” fundraising event on Saturday, March 15

This engaging event benefits the OCCC Foundation, which supports student scholarships and collegiate programs. Guests will enjoy an evening of learning about innovative college programs, savoring a dinner catered by Side Door Cafe, hearing directly from OCCC’s inspiring students, bidding on donated items, and joining the paddle raise to support the crucial Scholarship Fund. All proceeds raised from Pearls of Wisdom

help fund student scholarships, increase teaching capacity, and enhance the student experience. Participants will get to dive into the student

experience across various departments and hear testimonials from students as well as a

Join the Willamette Writers Coast Chapter on March 15 at the Newport Public Library, from 2 to 4 p.m., when they feature Bill Posner in the next installment of Spotlight on Central Coast Authors. A Newport photographer, he is the author of the Ping and Zippy Adventure Mysteries for ages 8-12 Drawing inspiration from Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys series, Posner’s stories feature two 13-year-old friends, a boy (Ping) and girl

Philomath Museum, Heritage

Shopping Mall trip Thursday

Take a trip into the past this Thursday, March 6, as the Newport 60+ Activity Center’s “Adventure Van” makes its way to the Philomath Museum, with an added stop at Heritage Mall in Albany.

The museum is housed in a building once used for Philomath College, a concept created by local community members that saved the building through the forming

of the Benton County Historical Society. The museum features a themed exhibit on the main floor, and in the past its exhibit hall has featured items from around the world and a history of air travel. The upstairs hall features an art gallery highlighting local artists.

The van will then head to the Heritage Mall in Albany to do a bit of shopping. Lunch will be on your own.

The fee for this trip is $15 — 60+ Activity Center members receive a $5 discount. The van will depart at 9 a.m. and return around 5 p.m. To register for this trip, go online at www. newportoregon.gov/sc and click on the dark orange banner “Browse the catalog and register.” For additional information, call the office at 541-2659617, or stop by at 20 SE Second St., Newport.

Talk and plant sale at Connie Hansen Garden

“Early Spring Perennials” will be the topic of a presentation at Connie Hansen Garden in Lincoln City this Saturday, March 8, beginning at 11 a.m.

Dave and Annilese Doolittle, of Petal Heads

Nursery in West Linn, will present special annuals and perennials that are looking fabulous now and will continue to improve all summer. Their talk will include some of the finest new breeding introductions of Hellebores, Bergenia, Pulmonaria, Evergreen Ferns, and more.

Featured plants will be available for purchase after the talk.

Connie Hansen Garden is located at 1931 NW 33rd St., Lincoln City. For more information, go online at conniehansengarden.com or call 541-994-6338

Attention: teens and young people – if you do your taxes you might get money back

Tax season is here and there may be good reasons to file a tax return even for people who aren’t required to file, which is the case for many young people.

Young people who work often don’t end up filing a tax return. They may not meet the income threshold requiring them to file a return. Or they may be under the misconception that their parents file for them because they are a dependent. Also, they may find tax forms confusing and worry about making a mistake.

In most cases, young people should file a return to report their income and get any excess withholding refunded. Through an Oregon Department of Human Services pilot program last year at seven urban, rural and suburban high schools in Oregon, students met after school and prepared their own tax returns using IRSapproved software. A teacher-facilitator helped them access the software on the IRS website and answered their questions about forms and terms. Students in the pilot program received refunds of their state and federal tax withholding between $95 and $1 246

“The high school pilot really opened our eyes as

to the need for this help. Many students didn’t even know they could file. They thought their parents did it for them,” said Meg Reinhold, ODHS senior data and performance analyst and tax infrastructure program coordinator.

“Once they logged into the software, they worked through it easily. Some of the refund amounts — over $1,000 in several cases — really surprised me.”

No matter how old someone is, finding ways to file a tax return for free is easy. The Oregon Department of Revenue’s website lists many ways to file for free or to get free help: https://www. oregon.gov/dor/programs/ individuals/Pages/getfree-tax-help.aspx.

And it isn’t too late to file returns from prior years to get withholding back from those years, too. Many software programs now help individuals prepare and file their tax returns from previous years.

To find out where to get free help filing taxes:

• 211Info: Call 2-1-1 or email help@211info.org for a list free tax filing help.

• CASH Oregon: info@Cashoregon.org; 503-243-7765; Portland, Beaverton, Gresham

• Immigrant and

Refugee Community Organization (IRCO); TAX@irco.org; 971-4273993; Portland, Ontario

• Centro de Servicios Para Campesinos; debbiec@Centrodspc.org; 503-982-0243; Woodburn

• Oregon State University; vita@oregonstate.edu; 541-737-3371; Corvallis, Bend

• Western Oregon University; wouvita@ wou.edu; 503-751-4132; Monmouth, Independence

• Latino Community Association; info@latinocommunityassociation. org;

• 541-382-4366; Bend, Redmond

• Moneywise Oregon; dan@moneywiseoregon. org; 541-670-5054; Coos Bay, Roseburg

The Oregon Department of Human Services Tax Infrastructure Grant Program was created by HB 4117 (2022). The program is funded with $8 million from the General Fund per biennium.

Grants fund culturally relevant and culturally specific organizations, tribal governments, and rural community organizations to support tax credit education and free tax return preparation for individuals with low incomes. Funding is also used to support and increase the number of certified tax preparers in the state.

Business & Service DIRECTORY

Lincoln City Sunday Market accepting vendor applications

The Lincoln City Sunday Market is accepting applications from new farm, food, nursery and artisan vendors for the upcoming market season, which opens May 4 on the grounds of the Lincoln City Cultural Center in the heart of Lincoln City.

Sunday Market takes place every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and runs until mid-October. Farmers, food and nursery vendors must be located in the state of Oregon, and artisans must be from within 100 miles of Lincoln City. Vendors can apply for full time or weekly booth space at the market.

The first round of applications closes on March 15, with additional applications considered on a space available basis after that date.

For more information and the application, visit www. LincolnCitySundayMarket.org.

About Lincoln City Sunday Market

The Sunday Market is a vendor-run market, which was formed in 2024 to bring the farmers market back to the cultural center after the plaza renovations. The market features fresh produce, specialty foods and handmade art and craft items, with live music and community outreach booths from local nonprofits and organizations.

vendors for the upcoming market season, which opens May 4. (Courtesy photo)

from various

are

after receiving

Siletz Tribe distributes $198,441.15 to variety of organizations

JEREMY C. RUARK Lincoln County Leader

The Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund has distributed $198,441 15 to 36 organizations as it continues its quarterly donations to nonprofit groups.

The Siletz Tribe has made contributions through employment, monetary donations and cooperative measures to the Siletz community, Lincoln County and the state of Oregon.

The seven-member charitable fund advisory board has distributed more than $18 2 million since its inception in 2001

Overall, the tribe has honored its tradition of sharing within the community by distributing more than $22 6 million through the charitable fund and other tribal resources.

Chinook Winds has donated more than $6 5 million in cash and fundraising items since it opened in 1995. The casino

also provides in-kind donations of convention space for various fundraisers as well as technical support, advertising and manpower for many events. Distributions made to organizations in Lincoln County were:

SPORTS

• Siletz, Eddyville, Toledo Baseball & Softball Association — to help fund the 2025 baseball/softball year for ages 4-15 ($5 203 65).

CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

• Panther Creek Senior and Community Center — replacing flooring in multiple areas of senior center, Otis ($20 000).

Education

• Altrusa of Yaquina Bay — purchasing children’s books for youth, Siletz ($2 500).

ENVIRONMENT & NATURAL RESOURCE PRESERVATION

• Elakha Alliance

— helping raise awareness of the importance of sea otters by providing presentations, collaboration with regional organizations on outreach and events, Siletz ($5 000); • Rotary Club of Newport — constructing water fountain and water bottle container refilling stations ($10 510).

HEALTH

• Seashore Family Literacy — purchasing AED devices for locations in Waldport ($5,000).

BOATING/EDUCATION

• Oregon Boating Foundation — purchasing two marina grade AED devices, Newport ($1 421 06).

PREVENTION

• Lincoln County Legends — implementing a Player Physical & Mental Health program, Siletz ($2 500).

PUBLIC SAFETY

• Seal Rock Fire District — sending volunteers and other county firefighters to EMT training ($7,542);

• Siletz Valley Fire District — purchasing security equipment for Logsden Station ($3,250).

THE ARTS

• Coastal Voices — expanding services from eight to 12 concerts, Newport ($4,000);

• Oregon Coast Aquarium — a temporary exhibit “Washed Ashore,” Newport ($10,000).

OTHER • 2025 Toledo Jr/Sr Grad Night ($1 000); • Siletz Valley Grange —

This photograph by Mark Svendsen is part of his exhibit now showing at the Yaquina Art Association Gallery on Newport’s Nye Beach turnaround. His work will be on display through March 13. (Courtesy photo)

Newport gallery spotlights photographer

Photographer Mark Svendsen takes people on a journey in Shetland in his exhibition now being spotlighted at the Yaquina Art Association Gallery, located at 789 NW Beach Drive in Newport. His work will be on display through March 13

While famous for its ponies, Shetland is a land of stark and austere beauty and a haven for a vast variety of birds, particularly in summer when migrants add to

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are provided except sewing machines, but you can also help without a machine. Just drop in anytime during those hours. For more information, email Pamela at Quilterocqg@gmail.com

The Oregon Coastal Quilters Guild is a nonprofit organization founded in 1991. Its mission is to promote

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(Zippy), who solve mysteries along the Oregon coast. Posner will cover the development of his characters, how his photography influences his writing, and how his series has grown from an initial concept to his third in-progress book, “The Lighthouse Legacy Mystery.” He will read selected passages.

Whether he’s behind the camera or at his writing desk, Posner is dedicated to creating

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all ages spellbound and inspired. (coastarts.org/ events/broken-compass)

Then, on Friday, March 28, at 7:30 p.m., A New Randy Hansen Experience, celebrating the music of Jimi Hendrix, takes the stage. For nearly three decades, world-renowned guitarist Randy Hansen has acquired a reputation for being one of the best Hendrix impersonators on the planet. In fact, he’s one of the few players officially recognized by the Hendrix family.

Releasing countless discs through the years featuring both stellar Hendrix jams and his

resident populations. The thousands of summertime breeding birds include puffins, gannets, skuas, gulls, petrels, plovers, ducks, and wading birds. The show offers carefully selected impressions of the landscape and its bird life, along with a few images of those famous Shetland ponies.

Showing along with Svendsen’s photography will be a selection of art donated to YAA. All sales are earmarked to a fund

fellowship among quilters while promoting knowledge and appreciation of quilts and quilting activities.

During 2024, OCQG guild members made and donated hundreds of quilts, plus totes, burp cloths, hospital pillows, cardiology and oncology bags, and other handmade articles to Lincoln County organizations. In addition, the guild’s Veterans Quilt Project donates special quilts to local veterans

content with the viewer and reader in mind. He is the author of “Ping and Zippy: Mystery of the Abandoned Mine,” and “The Secret of Whale Cove: A Ping and Zippy Interactive Adventure.” He has also written “Whispers from the Shore,” a new short story collection, and “Walking Newport III: Places You May Have Missed,” plus numerous coloring books, prompt journals, and photography books featuring the Oregon coast. An open mic will follow Posner’s talk. Participants sign up in advance and will have

own authentic Hendrixinspired riffage, Hansen is a true guitar legend — delivering landscapes of sound, masterful guitar work, strong riffage, and remarkably authentic killer cosmic tones as he channels Jimi’s spirit through his Fender Strat. (coastarts.org/events/ randy-hansen-hendrix)

Last, but certainly not least, a Fleetwood Mac Tribute band, Taken by the Sky, performs live on Friday, April 4, at 7:30 p.m. In what’s sure to be a sold-out show, TBTS offers faithful renditions of Fleetwood Mac’s iconic songs, perfectly capturing harmonies, emotion, and energy that made the original band legendary. Fans will be treated to favorites like “Rhiannon,”

Atonement Lutheran to host Earth Summit on March 16

Atonement Lutheran

Church is the local host for the 12th annual Oregon Interfaith Earth Summit, in partnership with Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon (EMO) and Oregon Interfaith Power & Light (OIPL).

Atonement will join 17 other community hubs for this statewide gathering, which will focus on the theme of “climate safety and health.” Participants will learn about what is happening with Oregon’s climate and hear the responses of faith leaders, youth leaders, scientists and state officials. Those attending will be able to connect with community organizations and local agencies as they explore how to protect themselves and their neighbors from fires, smoke, extreme weather and other effects.

for an education center building.

The Yaquina Art Association Gallery is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day. For more information, call 541-265-5133 Interested in becoming a member of the Yaquina Art Association or taking one of the free classes?

Visit the gallery in Nye Beach to learn more, and find them online at www. yaquinaart.org and on Facebook and Instagram.

every year; more than 640 quilts have been presented to date. The guild also provides monetary support to the museums of Lincoln County and other quilting-related nonprofits.

The roughly 160 members of OCQG live throughout Lincoln, Linn, Benton, and Lane counties and beyond. Additional information about the guild is on their website, www.oregoncoastalquilters.org.

five minutes to read a work of their choice.

This program is co-hosted by the Newport Public Library.

The Willamette Writers Coast Chapter hosts presentations from September through June. Programs are free and open to all writers 18 and older. There are Young Willamette Writer chapters for those under 18 . Willamette Writers is the largest writers association in Oregon and one of the largest in the nation. Join Willamette Writers at their website, https://willamettewriters. org.

“Go Your Own Way,” and “The Chain,” all performed with the spirit and passion that defined the band’s timeless sound. (coastarts.org/events/ taken-by-the-sky)

Tickets for Marty Isenberg’s Wes Anderson Playlist are $30; Broken Compass Bluegrass admission is $20; and tickets are $40 for Randy Hansen or Taken by the Sky. These prices are available when tickets are purchased in person at the Newport Performing Arts Center box office (777 W Olive St.) or by phone (541-265-2787). The box office is open TuesdayFriday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Online ticketing is also available via the links above (additional fee applies).

(across from Safeway) in Newport.

The Rev. Richenda Fairhurst, chair of the EMO Creation Justice Committee, says, “The Earth Summit is a valuable opportunity to revitalize our community connections and raise up local leadership as together we take faithful action in response to climate change.”

The event will begin with a statewide Zoom plenary session, with remarks from faith and youth leaders. Practical workshops will follow, both in person and on Zoom.

to the governor, will discuss the state of Oregon’s climate resilience. The workshops will provide pathways for summit participants to support local and statewide efforts to prepare for climate change-related disasters.

A representative from Newport’s local Yakona Nature Preserve and Learning Center will be available to discuss the work of the preserve in fostering climate resilience, education and sustainability in this permanent conservation location on the ancestral home of the Yaqo’n people.

The summit will occur on Sunday, March 16, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the church, located at 2315 N Coast Highway

Prominent authors of the Oregon Climate Assessment will make presentations. They include Dr. Erica Fleischman, director of Oregon Climate Change Research Institute, and Dr. Larry O’Neill, director of the Oregon Climate Service. Jonna Papaefthimiou, state resilience officer and advisor

Additional hub locations include Baker City, Beaverton, Bend, Corvallis, Cottage Grove, Dallas, Eugene, Gresham, Lake Oswego, La Grande, Medford, Pendleton, Portland and Salem.

Registration is by donation but is encouraged in advance. Further information is available at emoregon.org/events.

Toledo Summer Festival fundraiser is Saturday

The Toledo Summer Festival & Logging Show presents the “Name That Theme Banquet & Action,” which will take place this Saturday, March 8 at Toledo Elks Lodge #1664, which is located at 123 SE Alder St.

This family friendly event will include dinner, silent and live auctions, and other fun activities. Doors open and the silent

auction begins at 5 p.m. An Italian dinner and dessert will be served at 5:30 p.m., and the live auction starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door — $10 for ages 3 to 12, and free for those 2 years old and under. The winner of the “Name That Theme” contest on Facebook will be announced.

Seven Capes Bird Alliance needs volunteers

Seven Capes Bird Alliance will host an introduction to volunteer opportunities on Tuesday, March 11, at 1 p.m. at Driftwood Public Library in the Lincoln City City Hall building (801 SE Highway 101 #201). This gathering is rescheduled from a meeting that was canceled last month due to weather.

Seven Capes programs are growing in popularity, and help is needed to

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message from OCCC President Marshall Mease Roache. Emceeing the event will be State Rep. David Gomberg, who is a member of the OCCC Foundation Board of Directors, and Patrick Alexander, who is a member of the OCCC Board of Education.

“I hope to see you at our seventh annual Pearls of Wisdom celebration,” said Mease Roache. “Each year, Pearls has been more successful, and it is deeply

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meet in the Spring Lake Open Space parking lot on Port Ave. This bird walk is sponsored by Lincoln City Parks and Recreation. On Saturday, March 8 from 9 to 11 a.m., a bird walk will be held at the Kilchis Point Preserve. Located in Bay City, this 200-acre reserve is rich in heritage and wildlife. The nature trail is wide and accessible, stretching about two miles total to Tillamook Bay and back.

keep them staffed. The education team is a fun bunch of people, and participating as a volunteer is a great way to learn more about birds and wildlife, meet new people, acquire new skills, and get involved.

This event will include an overview of the volunteer roles. They are in need of assistants for bird walks, the Birding Basics community college course, and senior presentations. They are also seeking educators for elementary science enrichment programs, nest observers for the Osprey Awareness Initiative, and ambassadors to help staff the Seven Capes table at community events. All training, materials and Seven Capes vests will be provided. If you can attend or have questions, contact Nora Sherwood at noras@sevencapes.org.

inspiring that this evening of gathering together celebrating students has now contributed nearly $250,000 to support students and programs at OCCC. As a returning or new guest at Pearls, this is your chance to have fun, to get to know OCCC a little better, and to help even more students change the direction of their own lives, and of this community we all love.”

“Generous contributions to the foundation assisted with tuition and books while I was a nursing student at OCCC,” said graduate Stacey Brewer-Dally, RN. “The scholarship made completing the nursing program a little easier by not having to worry about how I would pay for the next term.”

Trailside signage interprets local nature, Native culture, and history as the group looks for winter sparrows and other songbirds. Meet in the Kilchis Point Reserve parking lot off Spruce Street. All Seven Capes Bird Alliance outings are free, family-friendly, easy to moderately easy, and open to the public; no pre-registration or experience is required. Binoculars and guidebooks are provided. Outings are held rain or shine; dress appropriately for coastal weather and muddy trails. Be sure to carry water. Look for the

Pearls of Wisdom will be held Saturday, March 15, at 5 p.m. Registration is open now and space is limited. Reservations close March 8 For more information, contact Jeanette Campagna, director of advancement of the OCCC Foundation, 541867-8531, or visit the OCCC Foundation website at oregoncoast.edu/ pearls.

SCBA sign at the meeting site. For details and any cancellations, check the website (sevencapes. org) or Facebook (@ sevencapesbirds). About Seven Capes Bird Alliance Seven Capes Bird Alliance was founded as Audubon Society of Lincoln City in 2005. A nonprofit membership organization and chapter of the National Audubon Society, SCBA is active in education and advocacy for protection of birds, other wildlife, and their habitats in Lincoln and Tillamook counties.

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Taft swimmers wrap up busy season

WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.

Swim season is in the books for Taft High School, and for Head Coach Lissa Parker and her Tigers, it was a busy but rewarding end to the season.

“Overall, we had a good end of the season, most of the swimmers had personal best times at districts,” Parker said. “We focused on events where all four strokes are swum (not just freestyle), so our experienced swimmers were put in those to move us up in points.”

Due to the weather, the District Championships in Astoria were shortened from a two-day event to just a single day. Taft finished as a top-five team in the district in both divisions, with the girls finishing third and the boys placing fourth.

THE FULL RESULTS FOR THE BOYS AND GIRLS TEAMS IN ATTENDANCE WERE:

gained its most points in events where they had strong depth.

The 200 Individual Medley was a bright spot, and several Tigers competed and generated team points. As has been the case for much of the season, Taft High School’s depth helped them swim in the deep end. The bronze at districts was a result of contributions from Tigers, young and old.

“We had some depth in the girls 100 breaststroke with Abby Halferty and Daisy Cobos, and all of their relays garnered points,” Parker said.

“Freshman Heidi Moreno and Hadley Twigg stepped up their game, as did sophomore Ellie Nightingale. Seniors Abigail Nunes, Sierra Sanders, and Hazel Fiedler raced well.”

Kah Nie 6 Parker said the

For the boys, the district championships also saw some standout performances,

including some worthy of state qualification. The team score took a bit of a hit due to disqualifications in the 200 Individual Medley, but there was still plenty to be excited about.

Senior Brenden Wilson took home first place in the 500 Free, capturing a district title and a trip to state. Junior Elijah Fingerson also qualified for state with a second-place finish in the 50 Free. Lastly, a 400 Freestyle Relay team made up of Wilson, Fingerson, Max Serrato, and Dylan Murphy also qualified for state off the back of their performance.

Parker also said that junior Blaik Gray is “getting much faster” and was an alternate at State.

Parker said that the young members of the program will be the ones to watch for Taft

swimming in the upcoming years, as the seniors dive into their next challenges.

“Our younger male relay members, freshman Max Serrato and sophomore Dylan Murphy, had some good swims,” Parker said. “They will definitely be up-and-coming for next season. “Since we had a large number of swimmers this year, many of the novices were seeded into JV events to give them opportunities to race as in the 50 Free, and many of them got [their] best times.”

When the Tigers headed to the OSAA 4A/3A/2A/1A Swimming State Championships at Tualatin Aquatics Center in Beaverton Feb. 21-22, Parker said the team performed well, with each swimmer setting personal bests. Though none of the swimmers made it past the prelims, the

margins were tight, and posting personal bests showed the improvement of the team on the biggest stage.

“In the 50 Freestyle, Eli Fingerson was right in there as the swimmers from 4th through 12th place were within hundredths of a second of each other,” Parker said.

Fingerson’s 50 Freestyle race could not have been much tighter. There was only fractions of a second between elimination and placement, and Fingerson came ever so close to making the next cut. The top six finishers advanced to the finals.

Eleven seemed to be Taft’s number at state, as that was the placement for the Tigers in each of their events. The Tigers can walk away proud, though, knowing that the times they posted to end the season were their best.

“Brenden Wilson got a best time in his 500 Free and moved up to 11th. The 400 Free relay also dropped time, and the only swimmer graduating will be Brenden so that’s hopeful for next year,” Parker said. “All in all, it was a good end to a busy season.”

Newport free throw experts prepare for regionals

WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.

If you were given 25 free throw attempts, how many do you think you’d hit? Well, at the Oregon State Elks Hoop Shoot on Feb. 8, Meredith and Dax Limbrunner each knocked down 21 of 25 shots to earn the title of state champion among their peers.

The state title earned the siblings a trip to Boise to compete at the regional level of the annual Elks Hoop Shoot, where they will take on state champions from Alaska, Washington, and Idaho. For the Limbrunners, competing and excelling in the Hoop Shoot is something of a family affair. Both Dax (9) and Meredith (12) started taking part in the free throw contest after their brother Alex got into it.

“I got into hoop shoot because my older brother Alex did it before me,” Meredith said. “I’ve been doing it for three years, and it gets easier every year because I get less nervous. Each year I get more comfortable.”

The name of the game is accuracy, and the competition itself has been around nationally for over 50 years. Competitors initially shoot ten free throws, and opponents then shoot ten free throws in turn. Then the first shooter goes back up and shoots 15

free throws in a row without any warm-up, with others rotating through. Whoever makes the most out of 25 wins.

To even arrive at the state championship, contestants battle through local and district-level competitions. But for Meredith, it’s something she’s becoming a seasoned veteran.

This is her fourth consecutive year of winning the state-level competition in her age group.

In 2024, Meredith became the first Newport competitor to win at the regional level to earn a trip to the 2024 National Hoop Shoot Final in Chicago.

Dax is competing in the 8-9-year-old division this year, and he’s been on a roll. Dax also credited Alex as introducing the family to the Hoop Shoot, and after practicing a lot, he decided he wanted to join, too.

“My brother, he started it, and then I practiced a lot, and I just decided to do it,” Dax said.

Marcus Limbrunner, Meredith and Dax’s father, said that part of Dax’s joining in was also tied to tagging along to see Meredith compete, including taking the trip out to Chicago to see her shoot on the national stage.

“I think he’s been pretty inspired by the whole process and seeing Meredith getting all these accolades,” Marcus said. “He came out last year, and at locals, I think he got third place. But this year, he won, and he’s continuing to win.”

For the 8-9 age divisions, the shooting line is four feet inside the official free throw line, but for Meredith and the older groups (10-11, 12-13), they are shooting from the full 15 feet. There are 12 regions around the United States, and the winner of each region competes at Nationals. The Northwest regional competition is in Boise on Mar. 15, and is an exciting

prospect for the Limbrunner family. Marcus said that the Elks do a great job of making the trip as fun and smooth as possible.

“The Elks compensate for mileage and gas and all that. They’re very fair with compensation for getting there. And then they supply all the accommodations, usually always have meals for the kids or a pizza party,” Marcus said. “They make it easy to just show up, the kids just have to shoot, and the Elks arrange everything. They make it really easy.”

With Meredith being a competitor in the Hoop Shoot year after year, Marcus said that many of the local Newport Elk’s Lodge 2105 members are familiar with and rooting for her.

“We thank the Elks for putting on a program that’s easy to participate in and fun for

the kids, and fun for the whole family,” Marcus said. “It’s a great experience to see the kids grow and develop and have time as a family.”

While Meredith’s goal is to reach nationals again, taking on regionals will be the next step. At each stage, the pressure ramps up another notch. So, what’s the trick to being consistent?

“Take your time, and having a shot that flows, instead of breaking it down into a bunch of parts. And also not jumping,” Meredith said,”You shoot from a different distance if you jump.

“I just focus a lot on the hoop,” Dax said. “I’m really focused when I shoot and I take my time.”

One variable that’s hard to prepare for? The pressure.

“You can run into some tough competition pretty

quick,” Marcus said. “When you get to the national level, you can hardly miss to be able to win. Usually, the kids are getting 24 or 25 at most age levels. They’re just not missing much.”

Last year, in Meredith’s division, the national winner hit 24 shots, second place hit 21, and third place hit 20. In her first go-round, Meredith scored 17 of her 25 shots, the same as four other shooters in the 2024 National Hoop Shoot Final. The trip to Chicago in 2024 was a “cool experience,” and Meredith enjoyed seeing the 10 000-seat Wintrust Arena where the competition is held, but also enjoyed meeting and talking to the other competitors.

This year, there are two Limbrunners hoping to shoot their way to nationals in Chicago.