Test your knowledge and win fun prizes while shattering myths about drug use at National Drug Facts Week Trivia Night, 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5 at Street 14 Coffee, 1410 Commercial St., Astoria.
This is a family-friendly event and offers a great opportunity to promote dialogue between youth and parents about drug use.
The event is sponsored by the National Institute on Drug Abuse and North Coast Prevention Works, with prizes provided by Astoria Cooperative, Amazing Stories comics store and Street 14 Coffee.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Capacity Crowd Attends 19th Annual Winter Weather Forecast Conference in Portland. Winter Weather Forecasts Now Posted!
"Is it a trick or a treat? Either way, La Nina is back and she may be handing out plenty of adverse weather across the Pacific Northwest again this winter. For the second year in a row, a standing room only crowd of 365 attendees descended on the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) in Portland over the weekend to hear regional weather experts prognosticate the winter ahead. Some attendees traveled from as far away as 200 miles in order to hear the details. All five forecasters who presented at the conference were in nearly complete agreement that La Nina is likely to bring above average snowfall to the Cascades again this winter, as well as an increased chance for lowland snowfall in the valley. Last winter featured two notable cold spells and low elevation snow events in late November and late February. It also featured lowland flooding along the Sandy river and record setting snowfall in the mountains.
Will those kinds of conditions repeat again this winter? Most forecasters played it safe with a broad-brush La Nina forecast, which calls for cooler and wetter than normal conditions across the Pacific Northwest. However, a few forecasters went out even further, suggesting that February may end up being the coldest month of the winter, with the best chances for low elevation snow and perhaps an arctic outbreak. Meteorologist Jim Little, who presented Saturday at OMSI, pointed out that the best analog (similar) year to the current trend is the winter of 2008/2009. That winter featured 24" of snow at the Portland International Airport, including a new record for the most snow ever received in the month of December. Nearly 10" of snow was still on the ground on Christmas day 2008. Winter of 2008/2009 recorded the most snow of any Portland winter since 1968. Little also pointed out that analog years do not guarantee an exact repeat again this year, however odds are increased over that of a non-analog year.
Will those kinds of conditions repeat again this winter? Most forecasters played it safe with a broad-brush La Nina forecast, which calls for cooler and wetter than normal conditions across the Pacific Northwest. However, a few forecasters went out even further, suggesting that February may end up being the coldest month of the winter, with the best chances for low elevation snow and perhaps an arctic outbreak. Meteorologist Jim Little, who presented Saturday at OMSI, pointed out that the best analog (similar) year to the current trend is the winter of 2008/2009. That winter featured 24" of snow at the Portland International Airport, including a new record for the most snow ever received in the month of December. Nearly 10" of snow was still on the ground on Christmas day 2008. Winter of 2008/2009 recorded the most snow of any Portland winter since 1968. Little also pointed out that analog years do not guarantee an exact repeat again this year, however odds are increased over that of a non-analog year.
COLUMBIA MEMORIAL HOSPITAL FOUNDATION TO HOLD FASHION SHOW AND TEA FOR MAMMOGRAMS
“Think Pink - Health by Design,” a Fashion Show and Tea will be held on Saturday, November 5, 2011 at the Astoria Elks Ballroom, 453 11th Street, at 2:00pm. Doors will open at 1:30 so guests can shop at the Retail Boutique featuring local merchants. Proceeds will provide mammograms for women in need and other cancer care at CMH. The event is produced by the CMH Community Relations and Annual Support committees.
Guests are encouraged to wear pink in support of breast cancer awareness and hats if desired. Tickets are $35 and include champagne or sparkling cider, tea, finger sandwiches, winter salad, red velvet cupcakes by Jae and a surprise gift for each attendee. Local merchants showing their fashions are Astoria Hemp Works, Betty Lou's Jeans, Dena's Shop on the Corner, Dress Barn, Four Seasons Clothing, Fred Meyer, Gimre's Shoe Store, JC Penny, Jones New York, Kay Lynn's, Maggie and Henry's, Maurice's and Ter Har's.
Models include prominent local citizens and doctors. They are Amanda Rohne, Deborah Lee, Don Accuardi, Dr. Angela Nairn, Dr. Diana Rinkevich, Dr. Doug Abbott, Guy Rivers, Dr. Jeff Leinassar, Julie Jackson, Kent Easom, Lisa Abbott, LJ Gunderson, Mary Davies, Paula Smith, Paula Teevin, Pete Gimre, Rene Caldwell, Savannah Henderson, and Susan Trabucco.
Title Sponsor Teevin Bros. Land & Timber Co. will match up to $5000 for guests joining the CMH RiverClub during the event, with the $100 memberships providing mammograms for women in need. Other sponsors are Spence Photo & Design, Ohana Media Group, Delap CPAs, Edward Jones, Hallmark Resort Cannon Beach, Bay Breeze Boarding, Bank of Astoria, Suzanne Elise Assisted Living, Sterling Savings Bank. Sponsorships for the event are still available. Sponsors will receive prominent recognition at the event and in publicity.
There will also be a raffle of several fabulous themed gift baskets with raffle tickets priced at $5.00 each. Attendees will be entered into a drawing for a special basket if 10 tickets are purchased. The special basket will include a dinner by CMH Chef Kurt Rummell. Raffle basket themes are Shakin’ Not Stirred 1, Shakin’ Not Stirred 2, Fall on the Patio, Sip and Savor, Sweet Pink Beauty, Night on the Pier, U of O Tailgate Party, OSU Tailgate Party, Astoria Bicentennial, Seattle Seahawk Game Package, and Cannon Beach Getaway.
Merchants participating in the Retail Boutique will donate 20% of their proceeds from the show to the CMH Foundation. Merchants participating include Misty River Jewelry, Silpada Jewelry, Terra Tones, Astoria Hemp Works, Mary Kay, Finn Ware, and Gimre's Shoe Store.
To find out more about being a sponsor, to make reservations or for more information, please contact the CMH Foundation at 503-325-3208. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to view some absolutely fabulous fashion!
Guests are encouraged to wear pink in support of breast cancer awareness and hats if desired. Tickets are $35 and include champagne or sparkling cider, tea, finger sandwiches, winter salad, red velvet cupcakes by Jae and a surprise gift for each attendee. Local merchants showing their fashions are Astoria Hemp Works, Betty Lou's Jeans, Dena's Shop on the Corner, Dress Barn, Four Seasons Clothing, Fred Meyer, Gimre's Shoe Store, JC Penny, Jones New York, Kay Lynn's, Maggie and Henry's, Maurice's and Ter Har's.
Models include prominent local citizens and doctors. They are Amanda Rohne, Deborah Lee, Don Accuardi, Dr. Angela Nairn, Dr. Diana Rinkevich, Dr. Doug Abbott, Guy Rivers, Dr. Jeff Leinassar, Julie Jackson, Kent Easom, Lisa Abbott, LJ Gunderson, Mary Davies, Paula Smith, Paula Teevin, Pete Gimre, Rene Caldwell, Savannah Henderson, and Susan Trabucco.
Title Sponsor Teevin Bros. Land & Timber Co. will match up to $5000 for guests joining the CMH RiverClub during the event, with the $100 memberships providing mammograms for women in need. Other sponsors are Spence Photo & Design, Ohana Media Group, Delap CPAs, Edward Jones, Hallmark Resort Cannon Beach, Bay Breeze Boarding, Bank of Astoria, Suzanne Elise Assisted Living, Sterling Savings Bank. Sponsorships for the event are still available. Sponsors will receive prominent recognition at the event and in publicity.
There will also be a raffle of several fabulous themed gift baskets with raffle tickets priced at $5.00 each. Attendees will be entered into a drawing for a special basket if 10 tickets are purchased. The special basket will include a dinner by CMH Chef Kurt Rummell. Raffle basket themes are Shakin’ Not Stirred 1, Shakin’ Not Stirred 2, Fall on the Patio, Sip and Savor, Sweet Pink Beauty, Night on the Pier, U of O Tailgate Party, OSU Tailgate Party, Astoria Bicentennial, Seattle Seahawk Game Package, and Cannon Beach Getaway.
Merchants participating in the Retail Boutique will donate 20% of their proceeds from the show to the CMH Foundation. Merchants participating include Misty River Jewelry, Silpada Jewelry, Terra Tones, Astoria Hemp Works, Mary Kay, Finn Ware, and Gimre's Shoe Store.
To find out more about being a sponsor, to make reservations or for more information, please contact the CMH Foundation at 503-325-3208. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to view some absolutely fabulous fashion!
Clatsop Community College Hosts College Night in Oregon
Clatsop Community College is one of twelve locations to host College Night in Oregon on Monday, November 14, 2011. Join us from 6:30-9:00 p.m. in Columbia Hall, 2nd floor, 1651 Lexington Avenue, Astoria.
The evening is focused toward high school seniors and their parents but adults who are planning to enter college are also welcome. Presentations will include college admissions, understanding the financial aid process and scholarship information. Free pizza and registration for a scholarship raffle will be available from 6:30pm to 7:00pm. Participants at each location can register to win one of four $500 scholarships funded by Educational Credit Management Corporation (ECMC) and must be present at time of the drawing to win.
For more information go to www.collegenightinor.org.
The evening is focused toward high school seniors and their parents but adults who are planning to enter college are also welcome. Presentations will include college admissions, understanding the financial aid process and scholarship information. Free pizza and registration for a scholarship raffle will be available from 6:30pm to 7:00pm. Participants at each location can register to win one of four $500 scholarships funded by Educational Credit Management Corporation (ECMC) and must be present at time of the drawing to win.
For more information go to www.collegenightinor.org.
Clatsop Community College Honors All Who Served
Clatsop Community College will hold an event, “Honoring All Who Served – Welcome Home 2011,” to honor veterans, serving military and their families in observance of Veterans Day. The event will take place on a day that classes are in session to maximize opportunity for student participation - Wednesday, November 9, 11:45am to 12:30pm, CCC Columbia Hall foyer, 1651 Lexington Avenue. Currently, 140 CCC students are identified as veterans. The public is invited to attend and participate in honoring our local veterans, serving military and their families. On-campus parking is limited.
The schedule of speakers and featured activities includes:
· 11:30am – Jewell School District Concert Band, directed by Cory Pederson
· 11:45am – Reception for all Veterans, Serving Military and Family Members
· 12:00pm – Presentation of the Colors, Commander Mike Phillips, Astoria American Legion Post 12
· 12:05pm – Greetings: Astoria Mayor Willis Van Dusen; CCC Board President Paul Gillum; Associated Student Government President Helen Johnson; Oregon National Guard Sgt. 1st Class Kathryn Pritchard; CCC Vice President of Instruction Stephen Schoonmaker
· 12:15pm – Recognition of Veterans, Military and Family Members
· 12:25pm – Veterans Employment, Benefits and College program information
· 12:30pm – Closing; Information Tables for Veterans and Family Supports; Refreshments provided by the Associated Student Government of CCC.
The schedule of speakers and featured activities includes:
· 11:30am – Jewell School District Concert Band, directed by Cory Pederson
· 11:45am – Reception for all Veterans, Serving Military and Family Members
· 12:00pm – Presentation of the Colors, Commander Mike Phillips, Astoria American Legion Post 12
· 12:05pm – Greetings: Astoria Mayor Willis Van Dusen; CCC Board President Paul Gillum; Associated Student Government President Helen Johnson; Oregon National Guard Sgt. 1st Class Kathryn Pritchard; CCC Vice President of Instruction Stephen Schoonmaker
· 12:15pm – Recognition of Veterans, Military and Family Members
· 12:25pm – Veterans Employment, Benefits and College program information
· 12:30pm – Closing; Information Tables for Veterans and Family Supports; Refreshments provided by the Associated Student Government of CCC.
In Clatsop County, 8.6 Percent of All Income Comes From Social Security
If Clatsop County residents didn’t receive their monthly payments from the Social Security Administration, 8.6 percent of total personal income in the county would be lost, a total of $109,328,050 in 2009.
Clatsop County is more dependent on Social Security payments than is the rest of the country. Nationally, 5.5 percent of total personal income in 2009 came from Social Security payments. In Oregon, 6.5 percent of all income comes from these payments.
In Clatsop County, 8,255 people receive some form of Social Security payment, either an old age pension, a survivor benefit or a disability check, according to the Social Security Administration and the Bureau of Economic Analysis. Social Security beneficiaries represent 22.2 percent of the total county population.
In rural counties and counties such as Clatsop with smaller cities, Social Security payments constitute a much larger chunk of the local economy than in urban areas. A greater percentage of people in rural America receive these payments than in urban counties, and so rural counties have higher average payments per resident.
“In many rural places, Social Security is a very critical element of the local economic base,” said Peter Nelson, a geographer at Middlebury College in Vermont. “It’s less important to a place like Los Angeles because there is so much additional economic activity going on there.”
Total Social Security payments in Clatsop County amounted to $2,936 per person in 2009. The national average was $2,199 per person and in Oregon it was $2,379.
Social Security payments in Clatsop County have been changing as a proportion of total income. These payments amounted to 6.1 percent of total income in 1970, 7.1 percent in 1980, 7.6 percent in 1990, 7.4 percent in 2000 and 8.6 percent in 2009.
Social Security payments are particularly important to rural counties and small cities because the money is largely spent in the community. “The seniors who get these payments are primarily going to spend their money locally,” said Mark Partridge, a rural economist at Ohio State University. “And they are a key reason why some communities are still viable. If this money dried up, there wouldn’t be a lot of these small towns.”
Social Security payments amount to 5 percent of the total income in urban counties. In counties with small cities, such as Clatsop County, these payments amount to 8.2 percent of total income, and in rural counties, Social Security totals 9.3 percent of all personal income. More than one out of five Americans living in small cities and rural counties received some kind of Social Security check in 2009.
Judith Stallmann, an economist at the University of Missouri, explained that Social Security payments help generate the sales that keep a rural business afloat.
“We find that Social Security income can be the difference between success and failure for some local businesses,” Stallmann said. “If you took away, say, 10 percent of the demand, would that local business be able to remain open? Often it’s that 10 percent that keeps them going. Social Security is providing that margin.”
Social Security payments go to those over the age of 62 who have filed for benefits, to survivors of insured workers and to those with disabilities. The program is mainly funded by payroll taxes. In Clatsop County, 73.6 percent of recipients were retirees in 2009, 10.4 percent were survivors and 16.1 percent were disabled.
Changes to Social Security are being discussed in Congress, which is looking for ways to balance the larger federal budget. If benefits are cut — or if the eligibility age is increased — rural counties and small cities would be disproportionately affected, according to Peter Nelson.
“Cuts would have a bigger negative impact on rural places, absolutely,” Middlebury’s Professor Nelson said. “They are more dependent on Social Security.”
Bill Bishop and Roberto Gallardo, The Daily Yonder
Clatsop County is more dependent on Social Security payments than is the rest of the country. Nationally, 5.5 percent of total personal income in 2009 came from Social Security payments. In Oregon, 6.5 percent of all income comes from these payments.
In Clatsop County, 8,255 people receive some form of Social Security payment, either an old age pension, a survivor benefit or a disability check, according to the Social Security Administration and the Bureau of Economic Analysis. Social Security beneficiaries represent 22.2 percent of the total county population.
In rural counties and counties such as Clatsop with smaller cities, Social Security payments constitute a much larger chunk of the local economy than in urban areas. A greater percentage of people in rural America receive these payments than in urban counties, and so rural counties have higher average payments per resident.
“In many rural places, Social Security is a very critical element of the local economic base,” said Peter Nelson, a geographer at Middlebury College in Vermont. “It’s less important to a place like Los Angeles because there is so much additional economic activity going on there.”
Total Social Security payments in Clatsop County amounted to $2,936 per person in 2009. The national average was $2,199 per person and in Oregon it was $2,379.
Social Security payments in Clatsop County have been changing as a proportion of total income. These payments amounted to 6.1 percent of total income in 1970, 7.1 percent in 1980, 7.6 percent in 1990, 7.4 percent in 2000 and 8.6 percent in 2009.
Social Security payments are particularly important to rural counties and small cities because the money is largely spent in the community. “The seniors who get these payments are primarily going to spend their money locally,” said Mark Partridge, a rural economist at Ohio State University. “And they are a key reason why some communities are still viable. If this money dried up, there wouldn’t be a lot of these small towns.”
Social Security payments amount to 5 percent of the total income in urban counties. In counties with small cities, such as Clatsop County, these payments amount to 8.2 percent of total income, and in rural counties, Social Security totals 9.3 percent of all personal income. More than one out of five Americans living in small cities and rural counties received some kind of Social Security check in 2009.
Judith Stallmann, an economist at the University of Missouri, explained that Social Security payments help generate the sales that keep a rural business afloat.
“We find that Social Security income can be the difference between success and failure for some local businesses,” Stallmann said. “If you took away, say, 10 percent of the demand, would that local business be able to remain open? Often it’s that 10 percent that keeps them going. Social Security is providing that margin.”
Social Security payments go to those over the age of 62 who have filed for benefits, to survivors of insured workers and to those with disabilities. The program is mainly funded by payroll taxes. In Clatsop County, 73.6 percent of recipients were retirees in 2009, 10.4 percent were survivors and 16.1 percent were disabled.
Changes to Social Security are being discussed in Congress, which is looking for ways to balance the larger federal budget. If benefits are cut — or if the eligibility age is increased — rural counties and small cities would be disproportionately affected, according to Peter Nelson.
“Cuts would have a bigger negative impact on rural places, absolutely,” Middlebury’s Professor Nelson said. “They are more dependent on Social Security.”
Bill Bishop and Roberto Gallardo, The Daily Yonder
It’s no trick – Lewis and Clark Bridge painting work shuts down for the winter on Oct. 31
Drivers will get a treat this Monday, Oct. 31, as painting crews on the State Route 433 Lewis and Clark Bridge remove tarps from the tent-like work platforms and suspend all construction on the bridge for the winter.
Contractor crews from Odyssey/Geronimo JV of Houston, Penn., have been working throughout the spring and summer to restore and preserve the historic structure. The team has successfully painted several sections of the mile-long bridge, but will suspend the weather-dependent work during the wet and windy winter months.
Several sections of the steel structure will remain wrapped in cables over the winter. The cables form the framework for containment platforms that will enclose workers and materials when they restart painting activities next spring.
A height restriction of 16.5 feet has been in effect on the bridge since work began in 2009 and will remain in place throughout the duration of the project.
This is the third and final contract in a series of projects to restore and preserve the mile-long historic bridge. The bridge was built to span the Columbia River in 1929 and carries 21,000 vehicles a day between Longview, Wash., and Rainier, Ore.
This $40 million phase of the SR 433, Lewis and Clark Bridge painting project includes $12.3 million in federal funding through the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, and is scheduled for completion in 2013. Project photos are available on WSDOT’s Flickr site.
Contractor crews from Odyssey/Geronimo JV of Houston, Penn., have been working throughout the spring and summer to restore and preserve the historic structure. The team has successfully painted several sections of the mile-long bridge, but will suspend the weather-dependent work during the wet and windy winter months.
Several sections of the steel structure will remain wrapped in cables over the winter. The cables form the framework for containment platforms that will enclose workers and materials when they restart painting activities next spring.
A height restriction of 16.5 feet has been in effect on the bridge since work began in 2009 and will remain in place throughout the duration of the project.
This is the third and final contract in a series of projects to restore and preserve the mile-long historic bridge. The bridge was built to span the Columbia River in 1929 and carries 21,000 vehicles a day between Longview, Wash., and Rainier, Ore.
This $40 million phase of the SR 433, Lewis and Clark Bridge painting project includes $12.3 million in federal funding through the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, and is scheduled for completion in 2013. Project photos are available on WSDOT’s Flickr site.
Coast Guard detains cargo ship for safety, security, environmental violations
Coast Guard Sector Columbia River detained a foreign freight vessel for failure to comply with international and domestic regulations regarding safety, security, and environmental protection.
Early last week, while preparing to cross the Columbia River Bar, the 734-foot Egyptian cargo ship EDFU experienced a significant reduction in propulsion power. The vessel’s crew conducted an emergency anchoring operation until assist tugs could arrive on scene. Over the ensuing hours, the Coast Guard worked with the Columbia River Bar Pilots Association and local area response tugs to bring the vessel safely to berth in the Port of Astoria, Ore.
Shortly thereafter, Coast Guard inspectors from Marine Safety Unit Portland attended the ship in the Port of Astoria to investigate the loss of propulsion and ensure the vessel’s compliance with other safety and security regulations. While onboard, the inspectors discovered numerous deficiencies including cracked and deteriorated firefighting piping which prevented the ship’s crew from being able to respond to a fire aboard the ship. Furthermore, the vessel failed a critical security inspection and was not in compliance with its Security Plan. Capt. Bruce Jones, Commanding Officer of Sector Columbia River and Coast Guard Captain of the Port, issued an order detaining EDFU until all safety and security measures were corrected.
“EDFU’s failure to comply with numerous provisions of the SOLAS (Safety of Life At Sea) Convention, the ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) Code and the ISM (International Safety Management) Code are unacceptable,” said Capt. Jones. “The economic vitality and security of our region depend upon the majority of maritime industry members who fully abide by U. S. and international safety, security and environmental standards. The Coast Guard remains committed to protecting our region by actively preventing and responding to any and all maritime threats.”
The ship has since come into full compliance with all security measures and has made substantial progress towards fully repairing the firefighting piping system and its associated components.
This case is an example of how the Coast Guard protects our nation’s maritime transportation system from substandard ships, and protects our ports and vital natural resources from accidental or intentional discharges of oil or hazardous material. The Coast Guard Captain of the Port will continue diligent oversight of all vessels subject to international and domestic laws and treaties to ensure they continue to comply with all applicable safety and security regulations in order to protect the people of our community, our environment, and our ports.
Early last week, while preparing to cross the Columbia River Bar, the 734-foot Egyptian cargo ship EDFU experienced a significant reduction in propulsion power. The vessel’s crew conducted an emergency anchoring operation until assist tugs could arrive on scene. Over the ensuing hours, the Coast Guard worked with the Columbia River Bar Pilots Association and local area response tugs to bring the vessel safely to berth in the Port of Astoria, Ore.
Shortly thereafter, Coast Guard inspectors from Marine Safety Unit Portland attended the ship in the Port of Astoria to investigate the loss of propulsion and ensure the vessel’s compliance with other safety and security regulations. While onboard, the inspectors discovered numerous deficiencies including cracked and deteriorated firefighting piping which prevented the ship’s crew from being able to respond to a fire aboard the ship. Furthermore, the vessel failed a critical security inspection and was not in compliance with its Security Plan. Capt. Bruce Jones, Commanding Officer of Sector Columbia River and Coast Guard Captain of the Port, issued an order detaining EDFU until all safety and security measures were corrected.
“EDFU’s failure to comply with numerous provisions of the SOLAS (Safety of Life At Sea) Convention, the ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) Code and the ISM (International Safety Management) Code are unacceptable,” said Capt. Jones. “The economic vitality and security of our region depend upon the majority of maritime industry members who fully abide by U. S. and international safety, security and environmental standards. The Coast Guard remains committed to protecting our region by actively preventing and responding to any and all maritime threats.”
The ship has since come into full compliance with all security measures and has made substantial progress towards fully repairing the firefighting piping system and its associated components.
This case is an example of how the Coast Guard protects our nation’s maritime transportation system from substandard ships, and protects our ports and vital natural resources from accidental or intentional discharges of oil or hazardous material. The Coast Guard Captain of the Port will continue diligent oversight of all vessels subject to international and domestic laws and treaties to ensure they continue to comply with all applicable safety and security regulations in order to protect the people of our community, our environment, and our ports.
The Coast Guard is investigating an allision in Warrenton, Ore., which occurred Saturday.
The crew of the tug Altair was towing the barge Deneb Saturday when it allided with the breakwater structure near Eben H. Carruthers Memorial Park in Warrenton causing the Deneb to overtake and then strike the Altair.
Coast Guard vessel inspectors and investigators from Marine Safety Unit (MSU) Portland, Ore., inspected the vessel Sunday and took statements from the crew.
"There was very little chance for pollution to reach the river in this case thanks to the double bottoms in the Altair and the relatively light impact of the allision," said Senior Marine Inspector Paul Thunberg, a civilian vessel inspector from MSU Portland.
An investigation into the cause of the allision is underway.
Both the Altair and the Deneb suffered minor damage, but neither vessel ran aground. Sea trials for the Altair are expected to take place Sunday or Monday to determine the seaworthiness of the vessel before it may continue its journey. Some damage occurred to the wooden breakwater structure at the pier, but the extent of the damage has yet to be determined.
Coast Guard vessel inspectors and investigators from Marine Safety Unit (MSU) Portland, Ore., inspected the vessel Sunday and took statements from the crew.
"There was very little chance for pollution to reach the river in this case thanks to the double bottoms in the Altair and the relatively light impact of the allision," said Senior Marine Inspector Paul Thunberg, a civilian vessel inspector from MSU Portland.
An investigation into the cause of the allision is underway.
Both the Altair and the Deneb suffered minor damage, but neither vessel ran aground. Sea trials for the Altair are expected to take place Sunday or Monday to determine the seaworthiness of the vessel before it may continue its journey. Some damage occurred to the wooden breakwater structure at the pier, but the extent of the damage has yet to be determined.
Friday, October 28, 2011
SUSPECT IN ALLEGED HIGH SCHOOL ASSAULT IN WARRENTON IN CUSTODY
Following an investigation by the Warrenton Police Department, a 15-year-old female juvenile was taken into custody Thursday, Oct. 27 by Warrenton police on a charge of fourth-degree assault in connection with an assault reported to have occurred at Warrenton High School on Friday, Oct. 21.
The suspect is currently in custody at the Clatsop County juvenile detention facility. She is scheduled to appear at a hearing Friday, Oct. 28 at 1:15 p.m. in Clatsop County Juvenile Court.
The suspect is currently in custody at the Clatsop County juvenile detention facility. She is scheduled to appear at a hearing Friday, Oct. 28 at 1:15 p.m. in Clatsop County Juvenile Court.
ASTORIA, SEASIDE JOIN ClatsopALERTS! EMERGENCY SYSTEM
Astoria and Seaside have joined Clatsop County’s new ClatsopALERTS! emergency notification system, enabling both cities to send out warnings and notices aimed at their own citizens.
On Wednesday the county board of commissioners approved intergovernmental agreements with both cities providing them with use of the system at no cost.
ClatsopALERTS! is a web-based communications system allowing local officials to deliver emergency warnings and other messages to citizens via land-line and cell phone, text message and email. Messages can be sent county-wide or to select areas to inform residents and businesses of natural disasters, law enforcement activities, missing persons reports, boil-water orders and other important information.
Clatsop County has operated an emergency notification system, often called “reverse-911,” for several years, but in May switched to a new vendor, Inspiron Logistics. The web-based system enables local officials to send out thousands of pre-recorded voice messages or text messages in minutes.
The new agreements with Astoria and Seaside will allow officials of the two cities to access the system to send out warnings and notices specific to their citizens. Each city will be able to send out up to 20,000 calls through ClatsopALERTS! at no cost through the end of the current service contract in May 2012.
The system will be accessed by the two cities’ 911 dispatch centers.
Citizens throughout the county are urged to register for ClatsopALERTS! The phone numbers of homes and businesses with land-line telephone service through Qwest, CenturyTel and other standard phone companies are automatically entered into the ClatsopALERTS! database. But cell phone numbers, as well as numbers for other land-line carriers, pager numbers and email addresses, must be entered by the user.
To register a phone number or other contact, go to “ClatsopALERTS! Emergency Notification System” on the Clatsop County website, www.co.clatsop.or.us. You will be asked to enter your name, phone number and address, and choose English- or Spanish-language messages. You may enter a phone number, pager number and/or email address, and may choose to receive the alerts by voice or text message.
A “Frequently Asked Questions” page on the county website provides more detailed tips about the service.
For more information go to the ClatsopALERTS! page on the county website, or contact the Emergency Management Division at (503) 338-3656.
On Wednesday the county board of commissioners approved intergovernmental agreements with both cities providing them with use of the system at no cost.
ClatsopALERTS! is a web-based communications system allowing local officials to deliver emergency warnings and other messages to citizens via land-line and cell phone, text message and email. Messages can be sent county-wide or to select areas to inform residents and businesses of natural disasters, law enforcement activities, missing persons reports, boil-water orders and other important information.
Clatsop County has operated an emergency notification system, often called “reverse-911,” for several years, but in May switched to a new vendor, Inspiron Logistics. The web-based system enables local officials to send out thousands of pre-recorded voice messages or text messages in minutes.
The new agreements with Astoria and Seaside will allow officials of the two cities to access the system to send out warnings and notices specific to their citizens. Each city will be able to send out up to 20,000 calls through ClatsopALERTS! at no cost through the end of the current service contract in May 2012.
The system will be accessed by the two cities’ 911 dispatch centers.
Citizens throughout the county are urged to register for ClatsopALERTS! The phone numbers of homes and businesses with land-line telephone service through Qwest, CenturyTel and other standard phone companies are automatically entered into the ClatsopALERTS! database. But cell phone numbers, as well as numbers for other land-line carriers, pager numbers and email addresses, must be entered by the user.
To register a phone number or other contact, go to “ClatsopALERTS! Emergency Notification System” on the Clatsop County website, www.co.clatsop.or.us. You will be asked to enter your name, phone number and address, and choose English- or Spanish-language messages. You may enter a phone number, pager number and/or email address, and may choose to receive the alerts by voice or text message.
A “Frequently Asked Questions” page on the county website provides more detailed tips about the service.
For more information go to the ClatsopALERTS! page on the county website, or contact the Emergency Management Division at (503) 338-3656.
Road work in Clatsop County
WORK SCHEDULE FOR:
October 27th thru November 3rd, 2011
Clatsop County road crews will be grading roads in the Jewell and Astoria areas. Crack sealing will take place on Lewis and Clark Road, and in the Knappa area Hillcrest Loop Road and Old Highway 30. Crews will also be chopping in the Astoria and Svensen areas.
October 27th thru November 3rd, 2011
Clatsop County road crews will be grading roads in the Jewell and Astoria areas. Crack sealing will take place on Lewis and Clark Road, and in the Knappa area Hillcrest Loop Road and Old Highway 30. Crews will also be chopping in the Astoria and Svensen areas.
THE OREGON RED CROSS IN CLATSOP COUNTY
The Oregon Red Cross has been and continues to be an important part of community life in Clatsop County.
On Sunday, October 9th the Oregon Red Cross assisted an Astoria family displace by a house fire by providing lodging and comfort kits free of charge, we provided information about health and mental health services that were available in the area.
We just finished up a blood drive at Columbia Memorial Hospital and have another scheduled with the folks at the Tongue Point Job Corps, October 31st and November 1st. Another blood drive takes place for the Astoria and Warrenton communities on November 2nd. For more information on upcoming Blood Drives, go to: http://www.redcrossblood.org/
We've also just held a Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED class, and have Adult First Aid/CPR/AED classes on November 1st and 8th, plus a New Volunteer Orientation class on November 9th. All of these classes are at our Astoria office with a dozen more to follow in the next couple of months. We're working on getting classes and training scheduled in Seaside and Cannon Beach as well. Find out about upcoming classes at: http://www.oregonredcross.org
Cecelia (Ceci) Pratt is our north coast Readiness Specialist and is the first point of contact with the Red Cross in Clatsop County - Prattc@oregonredcross.org - (541) 265-7182 (w) or (541) 619-4822 (c). Ceci has been in Clatsop County on a weekly basis attending community meetings and developing new partnerships and will continue to do so. Our Astoria Service Center will be staffed at least 2 days a week on Wednesdays and Thursdays and we hope to increase the hours the office is open in the future.
The Oregon red Cross will participate in the Astoria-Warrenton Chamber of Commerce's Business After Hours event on Thursday, November 17 from 5:30 PM-7 PM.
On Sunday, October 9th the Oregon Red Cross assisted an Astoria family displace by a house fire by providing lodging and comfort kits free of charge, we provided information about health and mental health services that were available in the area.
We just finished up a blood drive at Columbia Memorial Hospital and have another scheduled with the folks at the Tongue Point Job Corps, October 31st and November 1st. Another blood drive takes place for the Astoria and Warrenton communities on November 2nd. For more information on upcoming Blood Drives, go to: http://www.redcrossblood.org/
We've also just held a Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED class, and have Adult First Aid/CPR/AED classes on November 1st and 8th, plus a New Volunteer Orientation class on November 9th. All of these classes are at our Astoria office with a dozen more to follow in the next couple of months. We're working on getting classes and training scheduled in Seaside and Cannon Beach as well. Find out about upcoming classes at: http://www.oregonredcross.org
Cecelia (Ceci) Pratt is our north coast Readiness Specialist and is the first point of contact with the Red Cross in Clatsop County - Prattc@oregonredcross.org - (541) 265-7182 (w) or (541) 619-4822 (c). Ceci has been in Clatsop County on a weekly basis attending community meetings and developing new partnerships and will continue to do so. Our Astoria Service Center will be staffed at least 2 days a week on Wednesdays and Thursdays and we hope to increase the hours the office is open in the future.
The Oregon red Cross will participate in the Astoria-Warrenton Chamber of Commerce's Business After Hours event on Thursday, November 17 from 5:30 PM-7 PM.
Bus service from Warrenton to Westport returns
Sunset Empire Transportation District Board of Commissioners announces changes to the Route 10, Route 101, Route 21 and the reinstatement of the Route 30 (Westport) bus starting November 1, 2011. Executive Director Jay Flint reported that “The SETD Board of Commissioners is very pleased to announce the return of the bus service along Hwy 30 from Warrenton to Westport and to link back up once again with the CC Rider in Columbia County. This will bring back some of the much needed service of our east county residents.”
Schedules are available on the SETD website @www.ridethebus.org and printed schedules are available on the SETD and CC Rider buses, at the Astoria Transit Center, businesses, community service agencies and other local facilities. For more information call the Sunset Empire Transportation District at 503-861-7433.
Schedules are available on the SETD website @www.ridethebus.org and printed schedules are available on the SETD and CC Rider buses, at the Astoria Transit Center, businesses, community service agencies and other local facilities. For more information call the Sunset Empire Transportation District at 503-861-7433.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Clatsop County Board of Commissioners Meeting Highlights
Westport zone change approved
The board approved a zone change for a parcel at the Westport ferry landing site to accommodate construction of a new ferry terminal. The change rezones .86 acre of land and water from Lake and Wetlands to Aquatic Development and changes its comprehensive plan designation from Conservation-Other Resources to Development.
Wahkiakum County, which operates the ferry, has received funding to purchase a new, larger ferry vessel capable of carrying more vehicles that it plans to put in service in 2014. Earlier this year Clatsop County won a federal transportation grant to build a new ferry landing at Westport that will both handle the new vessel as well as eliminate a chronic siltation problem that hampers the existing landing. Construction of the new landing is set for 2012.
Commission Chair Dirk Rohne noted the ferry landing upgrade is one of several projects proposed for Westport through a county-led improvement program.
ClatsopALERTS agreements okayed
The board approved intergovernmental agreements with the cities of Astoria and Seaside allowing the two municipalities to access the county’s new ClatsopALERTS! emergency notification system.
ClatsopALERTS! allows local officials to send out emergency warnings and other notices to the public through land-line and cell phones, text messages and email. The agreements will give Astoria and Seaside officials access to the system to send out messages of specific interest to residents of the two cities. The agreements provide the service to the cities at no cost.
Other Business
In other business the board:
-Approved a contract with Philip Simmons to become the county’s new Veterans’ Service Officer. The former U.S. Marine Corps officer and lawyer will take over the program in November. The veterans’ service officer, funded primarily through the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs, aids local veterans and their spouses and dependents with access to military benefits programs.
-Conducted the first reading of three proposed ordinances: Ord. 11-10 County Road Event; Ord. 11-11 Park Special Event Permit; and Ord. 11-12 Social Gatherings. Public hearings on the three ordinances will be held at the board’s Nov. 9 meeting.
-Approved a $125,000 federal grant through the Oregon Emergency Management Office for the county’s Emergency Management Division. The annual grant provides half the funding for the county program, which directs emergency preparedness and response efforts.
-Appointed Jack Applegate of Warrenton to the Recreational Lands Planning Advisory Committee.
-Appointed Wendy Higgins of Cannon Beach to the Northwest Area Commission on Transportation.
The board approved a zone change for a parcel at the Westport ferry landing site to accommodate construction of a new ferry terminal. The change rezones .86 acre of land and water from Lake and Wetlands to Aquatic Development and changes its comprehensive plan designation from Conservation-Other Resources to Development.
Wahkiakum County, which operates the ferry, has received funding to purchase a new, larger ferry vessel capable of carrying more vehicles that it plans to put in service in 2014. Earlier this year Clatsop County won a federal transportation grant to build a new ferry landing at Westport that will both handle the new vessel as well as eliminate a chronic siltation problem that hampers the existing landing. Construction of the new landing is set for 2012.
Commission Chair Dirk Rohne noted the ferry landing upgrade is one of several projects proposed for Westport through a county-led improvement program.
ClatsopALERTS agreements okayed
The board approved intergovernmental agreements with the cities of Astoria and Seaside allowing the two municipalities to access the county’s new ClatsopALERTS! emergency notification system.
ClatsopALERTS! allows local officials to send out emergency warnings and other notices to the public through land-line and cell phones, text messages and email. The agreements will give Astoria and Seaside officials access to the system to send out messages of specific interest to residents of the two cities. The agreements provide the service to the cities at no cost.
Other Business
In other business the board:
-Approved a contract with Philip Simmons to become the county’s new Veterans’ Service Officer. The former U.S. Marine Corps officer and lawyer will take over the program in November. The veterans’ service officer, funded primarily through the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs, aids local veterans and their spouses and dependents with access to military benefits programs.
-Conducted the first reading of three proposed ordinances: Ord. 11-10 County Road Event; Ord. 11-11 Park Special Event Permit; and Ord. 11-12 Social Gatherings. Public hearings on the three ordinances will be held at the board’s Nov. 9 meeting.
-Approved a $125,000 federal grant through the Oregon Emergency Management Office for the county’s Emergency Management Division. The annual grant provides half the funding for the county program, which directs emergency preparedness and response efforts.
-Appointed Jack Applegate of Warrenton to the Recreational Lands Planning Advisory Committee.
-Appointed Wendy Higgins of Cannon Beach to the Northwest Area Commission on Transportation.
CLATSOP COUNTY HIRES NEW VETERANS’ SERVICE OFFICER
The Clatsop County Board of Commissioners on Wednesday approved a contract with a new provider of services to local military veterans.
Philip Simmons, a former Marine Corps officer and attorney, will become the county’s new Veteran’s Service Office effective Nov. 1. He will take over the program from the current provider, Kenneth Rislow of Veterans Hall Inc.
The Veterans’ Service Officer provides assistance to military veterans, their spouses and dependents in Clatsop County. The officer counsels people on eligibility for veterans’ benefits, assists in completing application forms, provides referrals to other resources, helps with appeals of denial of benefits and provides other forms of assistance.
The Veterans’ Service Officer position is funded by the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs, with supplemental funding from Clatsop County. This year’s contract includes $35,538 in state funding and $6,200 county dollars.
According to the state veterans’ office, there are 4,267 veterans in Clatsop County.
Simmons is a 21-year active-duty veteran of both the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. He served for 12 years as a Marine Corps attorney until his retirement in 2007 as a lieutenant colonel, and earned numerous awards including the Bronze Star. Since retirement he has operated a private consulting business dealing with military and veterans law. He currently resides in Arch Cape.
Contact information for Philip Simmons will be publicized once the transfer of the service contract is complete.
For more information on the Veterans’ Service Officer program, go to “Veterans’ Services” under “Administration/Board of Commissioners” at www.co.clatsop.or.us.
Philip Simmons, a former Marine Corps officer and attorney, will become the county’s new Veteran’s Service Office effective Nov. 1. He will take over the program from the current provider, Kenneth Rislow of Veterans Hall Inc.
The Veterans’ Service Officer provides assistance to military veterans, their spouses and dependents in Clatsop County. The officer counsels people on eligibility for veterans’ benefits, assists in completing application forms, provides referrals to other resources, helps with appeals of denial of benefits and provides other forms of assistance.
The Veterans’ Service Officer position is funded by the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs, with supplemental funding from Clatsop County. This year’s contract includes $35,538 in state funding and $6,200 county dollars.
According to the state veterans’ office, there are 4,267 veterans in Clatsop County.
Simmons is a 21-year active-duty veteran of both the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. He served for 12 years as a Marine Corps attorney until his retirement in 2007 as a lieutenant colonel, and earned numerous awards including the Bronze Star. Since retirement he has operated a private consulting business dealing with military and veterans law. He currently resides in Arch Cape.
Contact information for Philip Simmons will be publicized once the transfer of the service contract is complete.
For more information on the Veterans’ Service Officer program, go to “Veterans’ Services” under “Administration/Board of Commissioners” at www.co.clatsop.or.us.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
The Astoria High School Marching Band took 1st place at the U of O Festival of Bands.
They were also awarded the plaque for best General Effect.
This past weekend the AHS Marching Band & Colorguard traveled to the University of Oregon to compete in the 2011 Festival of Bands competition. Some huge milestones were achieved. The band has been the hands down state 4A marching band champion for five years running now, but this time they beat every single band in their division (9 bands most of whom are from 6A schools under OSAA guidelines) winning the single A class outright. This put them into the finals show for the first time ever (finals features the top 15 bands from all divisions).
The AHS Band then proceeded to place 8th overall against the top bands from all classes. What makes this special is the size of our band. It is very very difficult for a band our size (28 members total) to compete well against “normal” size marching bands - but compete well they did, earning special accolades from all of the judges and roaring standing ovations form the spectators. They are very much the crowd favorites and we continue to receive tons of fan mail from parents, staff and members of other bands from all over the northwest which can be seen on our AHS Bands Facebook page and website (www.astoriabands.com). You can also see videos of the band on our YouTube page and hear the judge’s comments on our ReverbNation page (follow the links on our website).
The AHS Band is now the favorite to win the single A championships this next weekend in Hillsboro. If that happens it will be the first time a band this size has ever even made it into the finals - let alone win the division. The following weekend the band will travel to Auburn WA to compete against 30 more bands and are likely to make the top five in that contest (last year the band placed 3rd in “Open” class and won the best colorguard award).
This past weekend the AHS Marching Band & Colorguard traveled to the University of Oregon to compete in the 2011 Festival of Bands competition. Some huge milestones were achieved. The band has been the hands down state 4A marching band champion for five years running now, but this time they beat every single band in their division (9 bands most of whom are from 6A schools under OSAA guidelines) winning the single A class outright. This put them into the finals show for the first time ever (finals features the top 15 bands from all divisions).
The AHS Band then proceeded to place 8th overall against the top bands from all classes. What makes this special is the size of our band. It is very very difficult for a band our size (28 members total) to compete well against “normal” size marching bands - but compete well they did, earning special accolades from all of the judges and roaring standing ovations form the spectators. They are very much the crowd favorites and we continue to receive tons of fan mail from parents, staff and members of other bands from all over the northwest which can be seen on our AHS Bands Facebook page and website (www.astoriabands.com). You can also see videos of the band on our YouTube page and hear the judge’s comments on our ReverbNation page (follow the links on our website).
The AHS Band is now the favorite to win the single A championships this next weekend in Hillsboro. If that happens it will be the first time a band this size has ever even made it into the finals - let alone win the division. The following weekend the band will travel to Auburn WA to compete against 30 more bands and are likely to make the top five in that contest (last year the band placed 3rd in “Open” class and won the best colorguard award).
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
OREGON STATE POLICE ACCEPTING ONLINE APPLICATIONS OCTOBER 25TH FOR FUTURE TROOPER POSITIONS
"Help Keep Oregon Safe - Be an OSP Trooper" (www.osptrooper.com)For the first time in the Department's history, the Oregon State Police (OSP) will be exclusively using an electronic application system to accept applications from men and women interested in a future career as an OSP trooper. Electronic applications will be received starting October 25, 2011 through the State of Oregon's E-Recruit system, a new electronic application system that all branches of state government transitioned into about a year ago.
OSP Superintendent Chris Brown is hopeful this new application opportunity will result in a large turnout and encourages anyone interested in a career as an OSP trooper to apply.
"The Oregon State Police has not accepted applications for recruit trooper positions since March 2010. We expect high interest but we will have to limit the number of applicants to the first 800 received so we have a manageable application pool for anticipated hiring," said Brown.
The process can start now by going to the Oregon State Police main website www.oregon.gov/OSP and the recruiting website at www.osptrooper.com where interested applicants can create an account to start building a profile. Applications will start being received Tuesday, October 25th, at 8:00 a.m.
To use the system an applicant can either look for a job they are interested in and then click ‘Apply' to set up their own user account, or an applicant can start by creating their own account so that their profile is set up for when they find a job posting they would like to apply for. Remember to keep a record of your Username and Password once you have set up your account. You will need your Username and Password to apply for other positions or to check the status of your application and when you access the E-Recruit system.
Along with the profile from the E-Recruit system each applicant will also have to answer a series of supplemental questions. These supplemental questions mirror our minimum qualifications and our disqualifiers. Additional information will be required for applicants with an arrest record. The complete application for employment will be comprised of The E-Recruit profile, the supplemental questionnaire, and any required attachments. Military veterans will need to attach and submit an electronic copy of their DD214 in order to be qualified for veterans' preference points.
Superintendent Brown emphasized that if you truly desire a position with the Oregon State Police it takes discipline and preparation. Our best advice is to train to the highest possible level you can achieve even if that surpasses the printed standards. During the physical abilities testing, applicants are required to meet specific standards for performing push-ups and sit-ups in two minutes and running two miles under an allotted time. These standards can be seen by clicking the following link: http://www.osptrooper.com/OSP/RECRUIT/trooper_testing.shtml.
The Oregon State Police is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages women and minorities to apply. If you are interested in a challenging career that will provide you with a lifetime of memories consider applying with the Oregon State Police. Information about our agency, the different opportunities that are available, how our hiring process works, and updates to our hiring process can be found at our recruiting website, www.osptrooper.com.
NW Oregon Coast Guard to host haunted house for charity
The Coast Guard, Coast Guard Auxiliary and Garibaldi, Ore., Fire Department will host a haunted house, for charity, at Old Coast Guard House, 1200 Garibaldi Ave., in Garibaldi, from 6-10 p.m., Friday and Saturday, October 28th and 29th.
Admission is two cans of non-perishable food items. All proceeds will go to the Oregon Food Bank.
The haunted house will feature several scary floors and one family friendly floor for children.
Who: Coast Guard Station Tillamook Bay, Garibaldi Fire Department, Coast Guard Auxiliary
What: Haunted House
Where: Old Coast Guard House, 1200 Garibaldi Ave., Garibaldi, 97118
When: Friday and Saturday, Oct. 28-29, 2011, 6-10 p.m.
For more information, please contact Station Tillamook Bay at (503) 322-3531.
Admission is two cans of non-perishable food items. All proceeds will go to the Oregon Food Bank.
The haunted house will feature several scary floors and one family friendly floor for children.
Who: Coast Guard Station Tillamook Bay, Garibaldi Fire Department, Coast Guard Auxiliary
What: Haunted House
Where: Old Coast Guard House, 1200 Garibaldi Ave., Garibaldi, 97118
When: Friday and Saturday, Oct. 28-29, 2011, 6-10 p.m.
For more information, please contact Station Tillamook Bay at (503) 322-3531.
Astoria Police Investigating Deceased Person Autopsy Inconclusive
On October 24, 2011 an autopsy of the remains located on Saturday October 22, 2011 in the Astoria's urban forest was conducted by the Oregon State Police Medical Examiner's Office. The autopsy was inconclusive. The Medical Examiner's Office will conduct further examinations but no manner or cause of death could be determined.
Since no dental records have been located for White no positive identification can be made through dental records. The dental records of the recovered body will be compared against the National Crime Information Center's Missing Person Records. DNA from the remains will also be compared against Missing Person Records.
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On October 23, 2011 the Clatsop County Major Crime Team conducted a scene investigation in the wooded area south of Irving at 25th. The area was searched for evidence and the body was examined, then removed. She will be taken to the Oregon State Medical Examiner's Office for autopsy. Scheduling of the autopsy is pending.
Based on the examination of the scene there was not a conclusion made about manner or cause of death or the identification of the deceased.
Cause and manner of death will be dependent on the autopsy. Identification will be dependent on laboratory work. Timeline for the laboratory work is unknown.
Any additional information from the autopsy or other investigations will be released through www.astoriadispatch.com.
Since no dental records have been located for White no positive identification can be made through dental records. The dental records of the recovered body will be compared against the National Crime Information Center's Missing Person Records. DNA from the remains will also be compared against Missing Person Records.
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On October 23, 2011 the Clatsop County Major Crime Team conducted a scene investigation in the wooded area south of Irving at 25th. The area was searched for evidence and the body was examined, then removed. She will be taken to the Oregon State Medical Examiner's Office for autopsy. Scheduling of the autopsy is pending.
Based on the examination of the scene there was not a conclusion made about manner or cause of death or the identification of the deceased.
Cause and manner of death will be dependent on the autopsy. Identification will be dependent on laboratory work. Timeline for the laboratory work is unknown.
Any additional information from the autopsy or other investigations will be released through www.astoriadispatch.com.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
RECALCULATION AFFECTS CLATSOP PROPERTY VALUES, BUT HAS LITTLE TAX IMPACT
The recent arrival of property tax bills in the mail has generated questions to the Clatsop County Assessment and Taxation Department.
Some citizens are asking how the real market values of their homes and other properties listed on their tax statements have increased despite the weak real estate market.
Market values, as recorded by the county, have increased in some cases as a result of a recent recalculation conducted by the appraisal department using more up-to-date data called Cost Factor Books. The books are compiled by the Oregon Department of Revenue and provide detailed valuations based on cost studies for various features of structures, including square footage, cost of bathroom and kitchen components, and a number of other building components that differ for each property.
Prior to the recalculation, properties in the county have been calculated by four different versions of the Cost Factor Books going back as far as 1989. In 2010-2011 the Assessment and Taxation Department recalculated values for all residential properties in the county using the 2005 residential cost factor book, the latest version available. As a result, the market values for some properties were increased while others fell. The cost factor books, and the recalculation, cover only buildings and improvements, not land value.
The department further refined the values by statistically adjusting all values towards the prior year values based on the ratio report, which is the study of real sales in the county. This recalculation in itself only impacted real market values, not the maximum assessed values that limit tax increases due to Measure 50.
Earlier this year the department launched a comprehensive re-assessment program, the first in several years, aimed at conducting in-person appraisals of every property in the county and bringing all real market valuations up to date.
But even if a property’s real market value has increased, it likely will have no impact on the actual tax bill. Property taxes are based on assessed value, not real market value.
Ballot Measure 50, passed by Oregon voters in 1997, limited the increase in a property’s assessed value to 3 percent a year, with exceptions for significant remodeling or additions.
As property prices climbed in the early and mid-2000s, real market values rose faster than assessed values. According to the Oregon Department of Revenue, by 2008 real market values were 86 percent higher than assessed values on average. Today, despite the ongoing real estate slump and decline in prices, most properties’ real market values remain higher than their assessed values. Only if a property’s real market value falls below the assessed value will an owner see a decline in his or her tax bill.
Tax bills also vary from area to area, since Clatsop County has 60 different taxing districts, including schools, cities and water and fire districts. Bills also reflect any new taxes in the form of voter-approved levies or bonds.
Tax payments for 2011 are due on or before Tuesday, Nov. 15. For your convenience, make your payment using the envelope included in your tax bill. Other options include:
· Clatsop County Assessment and Taxation Office, 820 Exchange St., Suite 210, Astoria. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
· Local branches of Bank of Astoria, Clatsop Community Bank or Wauna Federal Credit Union.
· Online – go to “Pay Taxes Online” at www.co.clatsop.or.us for more information.
If you disagree with the value of your property as printed on your tax bill or a penalty assessed for late filing, you can file an appeal with the Clatsop County Board of Property Tax Appeals. Forms are available from the Clerk and Elections Division, 820 Exchange St. in Astoria and the Clatsop County website www.co.clatsop.or.us. Petitions must be filed by Jan. 3, 2012.
For more information, go to “Understanding Property Taxes” at www.co.clatsop.or.us.
Some citizens are asking how the real market values of their homes and other properties listed on their tax statements have increased despite the weak real estate market.
Market values, as recorded by the county, have increased in some cases as a result of a recent recalculation conducted by the appraisal department using more up-to-date data called Cost Factor Books. The books are compiled by the Oregon Department of Revenue and provide detailed valuations based on cost studies for various features of structures, including square footage, cost of bathroom and kitchen components, and a number of other building components that differ for each property.
Prior to the recalculation, properties in the county have been calculated by four different versions of the Cost Factor Books going back as far as 1989. In 2010-2011 the Assessment and Taxation Department recalculated values for all residential properties in the county using the 2005 residential cost factor book, the latest version available. As a result, the market values for some properties were increased while others fell. The cost factor books, and the recalculation, cover only buildings and improvements, not land value.
The department further refined the values by statistically adjusting all values towards the prior year values based on the ratio report, which is the study of real sales in the county. This recalculation in itself only impacted real market values, not the maximum assessed values that limit tax increases due to Measure 50.
Earlier this year the department launched a comprehensive re-assessment program, the first in several years, aimed at conducting in-person appraisals of every property in the county and bringing all real market valuations up to date.
But even if a property’s real market value has increased, it likely will have no impact on the actual tax bill. Property taxes are based on assessed value, not real market value.
Ballot Measure 50, passed by Oregon voters in 1997, limited the increase in a property’s assessed value to 3 percent a year, with exceptions for significant remodeling or additions.
As property prices climbed in the early and mid-2000s, real market values rose faster than assessed values. According to the Oregon Department of Revenue, by 2008 real market values were 86 percent higher than assessed values on average. Today, despite the ongoing real estate slump and decline in prices, most properties’ real market values remain higher than their assessed values. Only if a property’s real market value falls below the assessed value will an owner see a decline in his or her tax bill.
Tax bills also vary from area to area, since Clatsop County has 60 different taxing districts, including schools, cities and water and fire districts. Bills also reflect any new taxes in the form of voter-approved levies or bonds.
Tax payments for 2011 are due on or before Tuesday, Nov. 15. For your convenience, make your payment using the envelope included in your tax bill. Other options include:
· Clatsop County Assessment and Taxation Office, 820 Exchange St., Suite 210, Astoria. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
· Local branches of Bank of Astoria, Clatsop Community Bank or Wauna Federal Credit Union.
· Online – go to “Pay Taxes Online” at www.co.clatsop.or.us for more information.
If you disagree with the value of your property as printed on your tax bill or a penalty assessed for late filing, you can file an appeal with the Clatsop County Board of Property Tax Appeals. Forms are available from the Clerk and Elections Division, 820 Exchange St. in Astoria and the Clatsop County website www.co.clatsop.or.us. Petitions must be filed by Jan. 3, 2012.
For more information, go to “Understanding Property Taxes” at www.co.clatsop.or.us.
Friday, October 21, 2011
Oregon Congressional District 1 ballots start going out today
On Tuesday, November 8, 2011 Oregon will hold a Special Primary election for the 1st Congressional District to fill the seat vacated by Representative David Wu. This is a Special Primary election applicable only to those registered with the Democratic and Republican parties. Ballots will begin going out in the mail on Friday October 21. Voters can track their ballots, read candidate statements, and find official drop box locations by visiting oregonvotes.org and clicking on the MyVote icon.
Oregon Secretary of State Kate Brown urges voters to return their ballots by the 8 p.m. Tuesday November 8 deadline. Ballots can be mailed, or dropped off at a county elections office or official drop box. If you choose to mail your ballot the last day to mail ensuring it will be received by the deadline is Friday, November 4th. Please remember postmarks do not count.
Winners of the Special Primary will then move onto the Special Election held on Tuesday, January 31, 2012. Minor parties have until December 1, 2011 to nominate their candidates for the race.
In Oregon, the 1st Congressional District includes Clatsop County, Columbia County, Washington County, Yamhill County and part of Multnomah County which includes some of the Portland metropolitan area.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
CLATSOP COUNTY LAW ENFORCEMENT TEAMS ARREST FIVE IN FAMILY VIOLENCE DETAIL
Clatsop County law enforcement agencies arrested five offenders as part of the ninth annual National Family Violence Apprehension Detail Wednesday, Oct. 19.
Deputies and officers from the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office and Parole and Probation Division and the Astoria, Seaside and Warrenton police departments, working in teams, served outstanding arrest warrants and probation detainers for crimes related to family violence. The teams attempted to serve 20 warrants and checked on 45 registered sex offenders.
Five people were arrested on outstanding warrants or for failing to register as sex offender. Law enforcement personnel will follow up on several other cases where registered sex offenders appear to be out of compliance.
The National Family Violence Apprehension Detail, launched in 2003, is organized by the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office Domestic Violence Enhanced Response Team. Last year 190 law enforcement agencies nationwide participated in the detail, resulting in more than 1,000 arrests.
Deputies and officers from the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office and Parole and Probation Division and the Astoria, Seaside and Warrenton police departments, working in teams, served outstanding arrest warrants and probation detainers for crimes related to family violence. The teams attempted to serve 20 warrants and checked on 45 registered sex offenders.
Five people were arrested on outstanding warrants or for failing to register as sex offender. Law enforcement personnel will follow up on several other cases where registered sex offenders appear to be out of compliance.
The National Family Violence Apprehension Detail, launched in 2003, is organized by the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office Domestic Violence Enhanced Response Team. Last year 190 law enforcement agencies nationwide participated in the detail, resulting in more than 1,000 arrests.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Oregon families can more easily monitor and manage college savings accounts with free smartphone app
The Application can be downloaded from Oregon College Savings Plan, and usage is free
A new, free smartphone application will make it easier for Oregon families that are investing for college and job training to monitor and manage their accounts.
The new feature is available to families that have invested in the Oregon College Savings Plan, which is one of two options that are available through the Oregon 529 College Savings Network.
“We are constantly looking for ways to improve the Oregon College Savings program to make it cheaper and more convenient for families to save for a better future,” said State Treasurer Ted Wheeler, the chairman of the Oregon 529 College Savings Board. “This new application will let families manage their accounts from almost anywhere and at no additional cost.”
Smartphones are available under many brand names and offer connectivity to the Internet and wireless data networks. The new application, which can be downloaded from www.OregonCollegeSavings.com, allows users to make contributions, view account balances, see recent transactions, withdraw funds, or change their investment options – all with the same level of security as the secure transaction website.
The application is available for iPhone, iPod Touch, Android, Palm Pre, Pixi and Blackberry Torch.
The Oregon 529 College Savings Network allows families to set aside money for higher education and job training and to receive an annual Oregon tax deduction, which can be as high as $4,240 for 2011. In addition, growth of the investment is both state and federal tax-free, as long as the money is used for qualified education expenses.
Families can select a number of investment choices through the Oregon plans, including a “principal-plus-interest” option, which guarantees an annual rate of return.
A new, free smartphone application will make it easier for Oregon families that are investing for college and job training to monitor and manage their accounts.
The new feature is available to families that have invested in the Oregon College Savings Plan, which is one of two options that are available through the Oregon 529 College Savings Network.
“We are constantly looking for ways to improve the Oregon College Savings program to make it cheaper and more convenient for families to save for a better future,” said State Treasurer Ted Wheeler, the chairman of the Oregon 529 College Savings Board. “This new application will let families manage their accounts from almost anywhere and at no additional cost.”
Smartphones are available under many brand names and offer connectivity to the Internet and wireless data networks. The new application, which can be downloaded from www.OregonCollegeSavings.com, allows users to make contributions, view account balances, see recent transactions, withdraw funds, or change their investment options – all with the same level of security as the secure transaction website.
The application is available for iPhone, iPod Touch, Android, Palm Pre, Pixi and Blackberry Torch.
The Oregon 529 College Savings Network allows families to set aside money for higher education and job training and to receive an annual Oregon tax deduction, which can be as high as $4,240 for 2011. In addition, growth of the investment is both state and federal tax-free, as long as the money is used for qualified education expenses.
Families can select a number of investment choices through the Oregon plans, including a “principal-plus-interest” option, which guarantees an annual rate of return.
Shellfish research and management in Tillamook and Netarts bays topic of public meeting
Shellfish biologists from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife will present the results of monitoring recreational and commercial bay clam fisheries in Tillamook and Netarts bays. Everyone is invited hear about the findings and the status of the fisheries from 6:30 to 8 p.m., Wednesday (Oct. 26) in the Oregon Department of Forestry building, 5005 3rd Street, Tillamook.Tillamook and Netarts bays see a high level of effort by both recreational and commercial clam diggers who target cockle, gaper, butter and littleneck clams. ODFW shellfish biologists have been surveying shellfish populations and monitoring the fisheries in these bays. The goal of the research is to ensure the fisheries are sustainable.
“Our work in Tillamook and Netarts yields valuable data about our bay clam resources,” said Justin Ainsworth, acting shellfish program leader. “.At our last public meeting there were concerns about management of the fishery. We hope to get more input at this meeting so we can ultimately address those concerns.”
After brief presentations on the recent work by ODFW, there will be an a discussion on bay clam issues, including the management of the recreational and commercial clamming, regulations (including how to change them in the rule-making process), enforcement issues, clam population levels and harvest rates.
Photo courtesy: Friends of Netarts Bay
Social Security Announces 3.6 Percent Benefit Increase for 2012
Cost-of-Living Adjustment is First Since 2009Monthly Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits for more than 60 million Americans will increase 3.6 percent in 2012, the Social Security Administration announced today.
The 3.6 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) will begin with benefits that nearly 55 million Social Security beneficiaries receive in January 2012. Increased payments to more than 8 million SSI beneficiaries will begin on December 30, 2011.
Some other changes that take effect in January of each year are based on the increase in average wages. Based on that increase, the maximum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security tax (taxable maximum) will increase to $110,100 from $106,800. Of the estimated 161 million workers who will pay Social Security taxes in 2012, about 10 million will pay higher taxes as a result of the increase in the taxable maximum.
Information about Medicare changes for 2012, when announced, will be available at www.Medicare.gov
The Social Security Act provides for how the COLA is calculated. To read more, please visit www.socialsecurity.gov/cola
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
CLATSOP COUNTY PANEL EXPLORES COUNTY’S OCEAN PLANNING PROPOSAL
A panel discussion Monday in Seaside hosted by the Clatsop County Planning Division explored the county’s proposal to extend its land-use planning authority beyond the ocean shoreline.
Local and state land-use experts and others discussed and took audience questions about the project, in which the county is developing a review code under Statewide Planning Goal 19-Ocean Resources to cover the stretch of ocean 3.45 miles out from shore.
The Goal 19 plan element will allow the county review applications for new ocean uses not envisioned when its land-use code was first adopted in 1980, including wave energy installations, and help ensure those new developments are compatible with fishing, recreation and other uses.
“In coming years new uses will compete for space in the ocean,” County Commissioner and panel moderator Peter Huhtala said. “One emerging ocean industry will create electricity from waves, wind and tidal forces. As we nurture this renewable ocean energy industry we must respect and protect existing ocean users.”
The county planning commission is tentatively scheduled to hold a public hearing on the draft plan in December. The plan will go to the county board of commissioners for its review in early 2012.
Panelist Mark Barnes, a planning consultant who is assisting the county with the Goal 19 project, said the plan element would put in place the same type of land-use review process used in the rest of the county. Only structures would be subject to review, not uses like fishing, navigation and recreation, he said. Barnes compared the ocean code to the county’s jurisdiction in forest lands, where its review authority is limited to structures, and state and federal rules govern uses such as logging, road-building and hunting.
The county’s project is taking place at the same time that the State of Oregon is updating its Territorial Sea Plan, which covers the same 3.45-mile band of ocean. The Ocean Policy Advisory Committee (OPAC) has been tasked with the project, which is aimed at providing opportunities for wave-energy developers while protecting fishing, viewsheds and other resources.
The updated plan is due to go to the state Land Conservation and Development Commission (LCDC) in summer 2012.
Studies found that the Oregon Coast has some of the best wave-energy potential in the United States, but when developers began proposing projects in 2004, concerns were raised that the state had no system in place to ensure the new projects are compatible with existing uses. In 2008 then Governor Ted Kulongoski signed an executive order directing state agencies to create a plan for identifying renewable energy sites.
Tim Josi, Tillamook County Commissioner and LCDC member, noted that Clatsop County and the state disagree whether counties have any land-use jurisdiction offshore, and said the issue will need to be resolved.
Panelist Paul Klarin, Marine Program Coordinator for the state Department of Land Conservation and Development, said Clatsop County’s work on the Goal 19 issue “could lead to something very positive, regardless of where the jurisdictional issue ends up.”
For information on the county’s Goal 19 project, go to “Ocean Planning” under “Land Use Planning” at www.co.clatsop.or.us.
For information on the State of Oregon’s Territorial Sea Plan update, go to www.oregonocean.info.
Local and state land-use experts and others discussed and took audience questions about the project, in which the county is developing a review code under Statewide Planning Goal 19-Ocean Resources to cover the stretch of ocean 3.45 miles out from shore.
The Goal 19 plan element will allow the county review applications for new ocean uses not envisioned when its land-use code was first adopted in 1980, including wave energy installations, and help ensure those new developments are compatible with fishing, recreation and other uses.
“In coming years new uses will compete for space in the ocean,” County Commissioner and panel moderator Peter Huhtala said. “One emerging ocean industry will create electricity from waves, wind and tidal forces. As we nurture this renewable ocean energy industry we must respect and protect existing ocean users.”
The county planning commission is tentatively scheduled to hold a public hearing on the draft plan in December. The plan will go to the county board of commissioners for its review in early 2012.
Panelist Mark Barnes, a planning consultant who is assisting the county with the Goal 19 project, said the plan element would put in place the same type of land-use review process used in the rest of the county. Only structures would be subject to review, not uses like fishing, navigation and recreation, he said. Barnes compared the ocean code to the county’s jurisdiction in forest lands, where its review authority is limited to structures, and state and federal rules govern uses such as logging, road-building and hunting.
The county’s project is taking place at the same time that the State of Oregon is updating its Territorial Sea Plan, which covers the same 3.45-mile band of ocean. The Ocean Policy Advisory Committee (OPAC) has been tasked with the project, which is aimed at providing opportunities for wave-energy developers while protecting fishing, viewsheds and other resources.
The updated plan is due to go to the state Land Conservation and Development Commission (LCDC) in summer 2012.
Studies found that the Oregon Coast has some of the best wave-energy potential in the United States, but when developers began proposing projects in 2004, concerns were raised that the state had no system in place to ensure the new projects are compatible with existing uses. In 2008 then Governor Ted Kulongoski signed an executive order directing state agencies to create a plan for identifying renewable energy sites.
Tim Josi, Tillamook County Commissioner and LCDC member, noted that Clatsop County and the state disagree whether counties have any land-use jurisdiction offshore, and said the issue will need to be resolved.
Panelist Paul Klarin, Marine Program Coordinator for the state Department of Land Conservation and Development, said Clatsop County’s work on the Goal 19 issue “could lead to something very positive, regardless of where the jurisdictional issue ends up.”
For information on the county’s Goal 19 project, go to “Ocean Planning” under “Land Use Planning” at www.co.clatsop.or.us.
For information on the State of Oregon’s Territorial Sea Plan update, go to www.oregonocean.info.
APPLICANTS STILL SOUGHT FOR CLATSOP AMBULANCE SERVICE AREA ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Clatsop County continues to seek applicants for open seats on the Ambulance Service Area Advisory Committee.The committee provides input to the county Board of Commissioners on the ambulance service plan and ambulance service franchisee. The committee will review the service plan as part of mandated update of the document and recommend possible changes to the board.
The openings are for members who have no association with the emergency medical system. The county board of commissioners will make the appointments.
To apply, obtain an application form and return it to the Clatsop County Manager’s Office at 800 Exchange St., Suite 410, Astoria OR 97103, (503) 325-1000. Forms are available from the County Manager’s Office or can be downloaded from the county website www.co.clatsop.or.us at “Committee application forms” under “Administration/Board of Commissioners.”
TAX PAYMENTS FUND VARIETY OF SERVICES
Clatsop County Property tax bills have arrived in the mail. Where does your tax dollar go?
Clatsop County collects taxes for all local taxing entities – 66 in all. But only about 12 cents out of every dollar goes to county government – the rest pays for schools, city services, water and sewer districts, rural fire districts and other public entities.
Here’s the break-down of the average tax dollar:
· Schools (including community college) – 48.41 cents
· Cities (including urban renewal) – 19.41 cents
· Other (water, sewer, recreation, transportation) – 17.17 cents
· County – 12.11 cents
· Rural fire districts – 2.90 cents
To see an illustrated break-down, as well as information on paying your property tax bill, go to www.co.clatsop.or.us.
Tax payments for 2011 are due on or before Tuesday, Nov. 15. For your convenience, taxes can be paid at any one of the following ways:
· By mail in the envelope included with your tax statement.
· Clatsop County Assessment and Taxation Office, 820 Exchange St., Suite 210, Astoria. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
· Local branches of Bank of Astoria, Clatsop Community Bank or Wauna Federal Credit Union.
· Online – go to “Property Records/Taxes” at www.co.clatsop.or.us for more information.
If you disagree with the value of your property as printed on your tax bill or a penalty assessed for late filing, you can file an appeal with the Clatsop County Board of Property Tax Appeals. Forms are available from the Clerk and Elections Division, 820 Exchange St. in Astoria and the Clatsop County website www.co.clatsop.or.us. Petitions must be filed by Jan. 3, 2012.
Clatsop County collects taxes for all local taxing entities – 66 in all. But only about 12 cents out of every dollar goes to county government – the rest pays for schools, city services, water and sewer districts, rural fire districts and other public entities.
Here’s the break-down of the average tax dollar:
· Schools (including community college) – 48.41 cents
· Cities (including urban renewal) – 19.41 cents
· Other (water, sewer, recreation, transportation) – 17.17 cents
· County – 12.11 cents
· Rural fire districts – 2.90 cents
To see an illustrated break-down, as well as information on paying your property tax bill, go to www.co.clatsop.or.us.
Tax payments for 2011 are due on or before Tuesday, Nov. 15. For your convenience, taxes can be paid at any one of the following ways:
· By mail in the envelope included with your tax statement.
· Clatsop County Assessment and Taxation Office, 820 Exchange St., Suite 210, Astoria. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
· Local branches of Bank of Astoria, Clatsop Community Bank or Wauna Federal Credit Union.
· Online – go to “Property Records/Taxes” at www.co.clatsop.or.us for more information.
If you disagree with the value of your property as printed on your tax bill or a penalty assessed for late filing, you can file an appeal with the Clatsop County Board of Property Tax Appeals. Forms are available from the Clerk and Elections Division, 820 Exchange St. in Astoria and the Clatsop County website www.co.clatsop.or.us. Petitions must be filed by Jan. 3, 2012.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
CLATSOP COMMISSIONERS APPROVE JAIL PLAN FUNDING
The Clatsop County Board of Commissioners on Wednesday approved funding for a remodeling plan for the county jail.
The vote is the first step in a proposal to seek voter approval next year for a major expansion of the undersized facility.
The funding will pay for plans including a detailed layout, preliminary design and specific costs for a project that would add up to 100 beds to the existing jail at Seventh and Duane streets in Astoria. The county will seek bids from qualified architectural firms for the project. The plans will be used to develop a final design, bid documents and construction drawings, if and when funding is secured.
The board, with Commissioner Patricia Roberts absent, voted unanimously for the budget adjustment, which will make up to $100,000 available out of the county’s Special Projects budget.
“The campaign for a new jail begins now,” Commissioner Peter Huhtala said. “It’s clearly needed.”
The funding will also pay for an updated cost estimate for construction of an all-new jail facility, for cost-comparison purposes with the remodeling proposal. The board also passed a resolution allowing for the costs to be reimbursed by a jail construction bond.
The board will review the resulting plan and cost estimates and decide whether to seek voter approval for a bond measure to fund the project, likely in either the May or November 2012 elections.
Sheriff Tom Bergin and County Manager Duane Cole told the board that multiple studies of the jail issue, including a comprehensive review completed in 2008 by Voorhis Associates complete with population and crime forecasts, have made clear the need to expand or replace the existing 34-year-old, 69-bed facility.
“We’ve done the study to end all studies,” Cole said of the Voorhis report.
In 2006 the Sheriff’s Office contracted with the DLR Group architectural firm to draft a plan for adding 80 dormitory-style beds in the ground floor of the jail building, which currently houses Sheriff’s Office staff. County officials have determined that that plan is not workable, but in a recent meeting with county staff and Sheriff’s Office officials, DLR representatives presented an alternative proposal that adds up to 100 beds on the building’s upper level where the current jail is located.
Most studies say the county needs at least 120 jail beds. The current facility, plus the 15 beds the county rents in Tillamook County, means that many offenders serve only two or three days of much longer sentences before they’re released for lack of space, Bergin said. “There is no truth in sentencing,” he said.
Bergin said he believes voters are more likely to support a project that upgrades, rather than replaces, the existing jail.
“I have been a proponent of trying to utilize this building all along,” Bergin told the board. “But we need to have (these plans) done before we go to voters.”
Clatsop County voters rejected a bond measure for a new jail in 2002. No detailed plans were drawn up for that project, and the possible location had not been selected.
Board Chair Dirk Rohne, who also serves on the board of Clatsop Community College, noted that the college failed several times to gain citizen support for its modernization project until it developed a plan to remodel the existing campus, at approximately half the cost of earlier proposals.
“We need to be able to maintain public safety in our community, and this is one part of doing that,” he said.
Huhtala noted that materials and labor construction costs are low. “The timing is excellent,” he said.
The vote is the first step in a proposal to seek voter approval next year for a major expansion of the undersized facility.
The funding will pay for plans including a detailed layout, preliminary design and specific costs for a project that would add up to 100 beds to the existing jail at Seventh and Duane streets in Astoria. The county will seek bids from qualified architectural firms for the project. The plans will be used to develop a final design, bid documents and construction drawings, if and when funding is secured.
The board, with Commissioner Patricia Roberts absent, voted unanimously for the budget adjustment, which will make up to $100,000 available out of the county’s Special Projects budget.
“The campaign for a new jail begins now,” Commissioner Peter Huhtala said. “It’s clearly needed.”
The funding will also pay for an updated cost estimate for construction of an all-new jail facility, for cost-comparison purposes with the remodeling proposal. The board also passed a resolution allowing for the costs to be reimbursed by a jail construction bond.
The board will review the resulting plan and cost estimates and decide whether to seek voter approval for a bond measure to fund the project, likely in either the May or November 2012 elections.
Sheriff Tom Bergin and County Manager Duane Cole told the board that multiple studies of the jail issue, including a comprehensive review completed in 2008 by Voorhis Associates complete with population and crime forecasts, have made clear the need to expand or replace the existing 34-year-old, 69-bed facility.
“We’ve done the study to end all studies,” Cole said of the Voorhis report.
In 2006 the Sheriff’s Office contracted with the DLR Group architectural firm to draft a plan for adding 80 dormitory-style beds in the ground floor of the jail building, which currently houses Sheriff’s Office staff. County officials have determined that that plan is not workable, but in a recent meeting with county staff and Sheriff’s Office officials, DLR representatives presented an alternative proposal that adds up to 100 beds on the building’s upper level where the current jail is located.
Most studies say the county needs at least 120 jail beds. The current facility, plus the 15 beds the county rents in Tillamook County, means that many offenders serve only two or three days of much longer sentences before they’re released for lack of space, Bergin said. “There is no truth in sentencing,” he said.
Bergin said he believes voters are more likely to support a project that upgrades, rather than replaces, the existing jail.
“I have been a proponent of trying to utilize this building all along,” Bergin told the board. “But we need to have (these plans) done before we go to voters.”
Clatsop County voters rejected a bond measure for a new jail in 2002. No detailed plans were drawn up for that project, and the possible location had not been selected.
Board Chair Dirk Rohne, who also serves on the board of Clatsop Community College, noted that the college failed several times to gain citizen support for its modernization project until it developed a plan to remodel the existing campus, at approximately half the cost of earlier proposals.
“We need to be able to maintain public safety in our community, and this is one part of doing that,” he said.
Huhtala noted that materials and labor construction costs are low. “The timing is excellent,” he said.
VEHICLES, BOATS OFFERED AT CLATSOP SHERIFF’S AUCTION OCT. 22
Several vehicles and boats will be up for bid at a public auction hosted by the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 22 at the county Road Department shops, 1100 Olney Ave. in Astoria.The auction will start with a viewing from 9 a.m., and the bidding will start at 10 a.m. People interested in bidding will need to arrive at 9 a.m. to register and obtain a bidding number. Sales are “as is, where is” and the successful bidders must make payment by cash or check at the close of the auction. All purchased items must be removed from the property no later than Friday, Oct. 28.
Items to be auctioned include: 2004 Dodge pick-up, 1991 Cavalier coupe, 1991 Cavalier station wagon, 1996 Jeep Cherokee, seven Ford Crown Victorias (1997-2006), 1996 Dodge 150 pick-up with canopy, 1991 Ford ambulance and six boats of various makes and models.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
SPECIAL ELECTION IN OREGON - VOTER REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS OCT. 18
The Clatsop County Clerk and Elections Office reminds local residents that Tuesday, Oct. 18 is the deadline to register to vote in the Nov. 8 special primary election.Ballots for the election will be mailed out beginning Friday, Oct. 21 for registered Oregon Democratic and Republican voters.
Tuesday, Oct. 18 at 5 p.m. is the deadline to hand in or mail a registration form if you are registering to vote for the first time. To be eligible to vote, you must be an Oregon resident, a U.S. citizen, and be at least 18 years old by Election Day.
You must update your registration if you move or change your mailing address, change your name, or wish to change your party affiliation. Those who are updating their registration have until 8 p.m. on Election Day to do so.
People can register online with the Oregon Secretary of State’s Office at www.sos.state.or.us/elections. Voter registration forms can also be downloaded from the “Clerk/Elections” page at www.co.clatsop.or.us.
For more information go to the Clerk/Elections page on the Clatsop County website or call (503) 325-8511.
The special election features primary contests for the vacant District 1 Congressional seat. Only voters registered as Democratic or Republican will receive ballots.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
CLATSOP PROPERTY TAX BILLS MAILED SOON; PAYMENTS DUE NOV. 15
Property tax bills for the 2011-12 fiscal year will arrive in mailboxes in the next few days.
The tax bill that you will be receiving will show market values in most areas have decreased, but this may not translate into lower taxes. The primary reason can be found in the provisions of Ballot Measure 50, the constitutional amendment approved by voters in 1997.
Under Measure 50, your assessed property value cannot increase by more than 3% annually unless you have made significant improvements to the property. In addition, your assessed value cannot be higher than your real market value.
The real market value (RMV) on your tax statement represents the market value of the property as of Jan. 1, 2011, based on 2010 sales. It is important to understand that your property taxes are based on your assessed value (AV), not market value. In most cases, assessed values are still significantly lower than market values. A decline in the market value does not automatically reduce your Measure 50 assessed value unless your real market value falls below your maximum assessed value (MAV). See the following example:
LAST YEAR’S VALUES
THIS YEAR’S VALUES
RMV
250,000
215,000
MAV
112,000
115,360
AV
112,000
*115,360
*Reflects 3% increase
Another factor that may explain increases on property taxes is voter-approved levies or bonds.
Within Clatsop County, tax rates on individual statements vary because property taxes support 60 local government-taxing districts, most of which have different boundaries. These districts include schools, cities, local fire, water and sewer districts, rural law enforcement, road districts and other special assessment districts.
Tax payments for 2011 are due on or before Tuesday, Nov. 15. For your convenience, taxes can be paid at any one of the following ways:
· By mail in the envelope included with your tax statement.
· Clatsop County Assessment and Taxation Office, 820 Exchange St., Suite 210, Astoria. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
· Local branches of Bank of Astoria, Clatsop Community Bank or Wauna Federal Credit Union.
· Online – go to “Property Records/Taxes” at www.co.clatsop.or.us for more information.
If you disagree with the value of your property as printed on your tax bill or a penalty assessed for late filing, you can file an appeal with the Clatsop County Board of Property Tax Appeals. Forms are available from the Clerk and Elections Division, 820 Exchange St. in Astoria and the Clatsop County website www.co.clatsop.or.us. Petitions must be filed by Jan. 3, 2012.
The tax bill that you will be receiving will show market values in most areas have decreased, but this may not translate into lower taxes. The primary reason can be found in the provisions of Ballot Measure 50, the constitutional amendment approved by voters in 1997.
Under Measure 50, your assessed property value cannot increase by more than 3% annually unless you have made significant improvements to the property. In addition, your assessed value cannot be higher than your real market value.
The real market value (RMV) on your tax statement represents the market value of the property as of Jan. 1, 2011, based on 2010 sales. It is important to understand that your property taxes are based on your assessed value (AV), not market value. In most cases, assessed values are still significantly lower than market values. A decline in the market value does not automatically reduce your Measure 50 assessed value unless your real market value falls below your maximum assessed value (MAV). See the following example:
LAST YEAR’S VALUES
THIS YEAR’S VALUES
RMV
250,000
215,000
MAV
112,000
115,360
AV
112,000
*115,360
*Reflects 3% increase
Another factor that may explain increases on property taxes is voter-approved levies or bonds.
Within Clatsop County, tax rates on individual statements vary because property taxes support 60 local government-taxing districts, most of which have different boundaries. These districts include schools, cities, local fire, water and sewer districts, rural law enforcement, road districts and other special assessment districts.
Tax payments for 2011 are due on or before Tuesday, Nov. 15. For your convenience, taxes can be paid at any one of the following ways:
· By mail in the envelope included with your tax statement.
· Clatsop County Assessment and Taxation Office, 820 Exchange St., Suite 210, Astoria. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
· Local branches of Bank of Astoria, Clatsop Community Bank or Wauna Federal Credit Union.
· Online – go to “Property Records/Taxes” at www.co.clatsop.or.us for more information.
If you disagree with the value of your property as printed on your tax bill or a penalty assessed for late filing, you can file an appeal with the Clatsop County Board of Property Tax Appeals. Forms are available from the Clerk and Elections Division, 820 Exchange St. in Astoria and the Clatsop County website www.co.clatsop.or.us. Petitions must be filed by Jan. 3, 2012.
Monday, October 10, 2011
FOUR ARRESTED IN ASTORIA IN CONNECTION WITH LOCAL BURGLARIES
Personnel from the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office and Astoria Police Department arrested four individuals in connection with a number of local burglaries Friday morning.
A search warrant was executed at residences at 1729 5th Street and 40991 Grand View Lane at about 6 a.m. Friday. The warrant was related to evidence from recent residential burglaries. A pistol stolen from a Warrenton residence was recovered, as well as evidence connected to other area burglaries.
Taken into custody were:
Amy Kelly, 1729 5th St., dob 9/13/72, charged on an outstanding warrant
James R. McGuire, 1729 5th St., dob 7/11/69, possession of a stolen firearm; possession of heroin
Matthew Betts, 40991 Grand View Lane, dob 4/23/80, possession of heroin
Keith Murray, 1729 5th St., dob 5/12/75, possession of methamphetamine
All four suspects were lodged in Clatsop County Jail.
A search warrant was executed at residences at 1729 5th Street and 40991 Grand View Lane at about 6 a.m. Friday. The warrant was related to evidence from recent residential burglaries. A pistol stolen from a Warrenton residence was recovered, as well as evidence connected to other area burglaries.
Taken into custody were:
Amy Kelly, 1729 5th St., dob 9/13/72, charged on an outstanding warrant
James R. McGuire, 1729 5th St., dob 7/11/69, possession of a stolen firearm; possession of heroin
Matthew Betts, 40991 Grand View Lane, dob 4/23/80, possession of heroin
Keith Murray, 1729 5th St., dob 5/12/75, possession of methamphetamine
All four suspects were lodged in Clatsop County Jail.
PUBLIC MEETING ON OREGON HEALTH PLAN CHANGES OCT. 13
The public is invited to learn more about proposed changes to the Oregon Health Plan at a community meeting Thursday, Oct. 13 in Astoria.
The meeting takes place 6-8 p.m. at Clatsop Community College in Columbia Hall Room 219.
The new program, approved by the Oregon Legislature and set to go into effect in 2012, calls for organizing Oregon Health Plan providers into Coordinated Care Organizations. It is designed to provide a continuum of integrated care for OHP patients’ physical, mental and dental health services, while at the same time reducing the state’s Medicare and Medicaid expenses.
For more information go to www.health.oregon.gov.
The meeting takes place 6-8 p.m. at Clatsop Community College in Columbia Hall Room 219.
The new program, approved by the Oregon Legislature and set to go into effect in 2012, calls for organizing Oregon Health Plan providers into Coordinated Care Organizations. It is designed to provide a continuum of integrated care for OHP patients’ physical, mental and dental health services, while at the same time reducing the state’s Medicare and Medicaid expenses.
For more information go to www.health.oregon.gov.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
SEASIDE TO TEST TSUNAMI WARNING SYSTEM
The City of Seaside will be testing its Tsunami Warning System on Wednesday, October 5th, beginning at 11:00 a.m. This test will be to monitor and assess the notification system and will not be used as a public information trial alert. The warning will begin with three beeps and consist of a voice message stating, "This is a test. This is a test of the emergency warning system. This is only a test." The message will be broadcast in English and Spanish.
2011 OREGON RECREATION TRAILS GRANTS APPLICATION CYCLE OPENS
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is opening the 2012 Recreational Trails Grant (RTP) cycle. The grant program helps fund trail projects, including new trail construction, trail restoration, development, rehabilitation of trailhead facilities, and acquisition. The mandatory letter of intent to apply is due October 28, 2011. The letters must be sent to the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department at
OPRD: RTP
725 Summer Street NE, Suite C
Salem, OR 97301.
Non-profit organizations as well as government agencies are invited to apply. The grant applications will be due January 13, 2012.
OPRD has scheduled two workshop webinars to assist potential applicants in understanding the grant program, the application process, and to answer questions. The webinars will be held:
9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, November 22, 2011
9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, November 29, 2011
The grant manual, application, workshop information and program schedule are available online at: http://www.oregon.gov/OPRD/GRANTS/trails.shtml
To register and receive login information for a workshop webinar please contact Mark Cowan at 503-986-0591 or mark.cowan@state.or.us.
photo courtesy: NW Trails Alliance
CRITICAL INJURY TRAFFIC CRASH - HIGHWAY 26 EAST OF ELSIE
Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers are continuing the investigation into Monday afternoon's single vehicle critical injury traffic crash along Highway 26 about eight miles east of Elsie. The crash injured one person and his name will be released Tuesday.According to Trooper Dennis Thomas, on October 3, 2011 at approximately 2:00 p.m. a passing motorist called to report observing a vehicle drive off the westbound shoulder of Highway 26 near milepost 27. The two-door car traveled about ten feet down embankment where it came to a stop with the driver trapped inside. An off-duty paramedic arrived on scene about five minutes later, stopped and began rendering medical aid.
OSP troopers, Elsie Fire Department and ODOT personnel responded to the scene. Firefighters extricated the 18-year old Vancouver male from the vehicle and he was transported by ground ambulance to the rest area at milepost 28. LifeFlight responded and transported the critically injured male to Legacy Emanuel Medical Center in Portland.
Preliminary investigation indicates the vehicle was westbound on Highway 26. For an unknown reason, it traveled off the highway crashing into a tree.
Highway traffic was partially affected for about two hours.
OSP troopers from the Astoria Area Command office are continuing the investigation into the cause.
Photograph Source: Oregon State Police
Monday, October 3, 2011
This weekend, a camp for grownups who live to sing......
Sunnycamp, a camp for people who like to sing all genres of songs, will be the weekend of October 7, 8 & 9, at Camp Morehead in Nahcotta, 277th and Sandridge Way on the Long Beach Peninsula.
Wayne Palsson will lead a workshop on Maritime Songs. Another possible workshop topic is ‘Songs of the Northwest’.
Sunnycamp is very inexpensive, only $55 for the entire weekend, which includes food, lodging, and admission. There are reduced rates for those who come in for the day, or want to stay in the motel next door instead of Camp Morehead's cabins.
For more information, see this year's website, or contact Mary Garvey at 360-642-8049
Wayne Palsson will lead a workshop on Maritime Songs. Another possible workshop topic is ‘Songs of the Northwest’.
Sunnycamp is very inexpensive, only $55 for the entire weekend, which includes food, lodging, and admission. There are reduced rates for those who come in for the day, or want to stay in the motel next door instead of Camp Morehead's cabins.
For more information, see this year's website, or contact Mary Garvey at 360-642-8049
First Razor Clam Digs scheduled for late October
The first razor clam dig of the season is tentatively scheduled to begin in late October on four ocean beaches, with additional digs planned through late December.Final approval of the openings will depend on results of marine toxin tests that show the clams are safe to eat.
The first opening of the fall season is tentatively scheduled Oct. 28-29 on evening tides at Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis and Mocrocks.
Most other digging opportunities through December are set at Long Beach, Twin Harbors and Mocrocks, because those beaches have the highest number of clams available for harvest.
No digging will be allowed before noon on any of the five razor-clam beaches until the tides change next spring.
The schedule of proposed razor-clam digs, along with evening low tides:
• Oct. 28, Friday — 8:28 p.m. (-1.8 ft.); Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, Mocrocks
• Oct. 29, Saturday — 9:17 p.m. (-1.5 ft.); Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, Mocrocks
• Nov. 11, Friday — 6:48 p.m. (-0.4 ft.); Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks
• Nov. 12, Saturday — 7:23 p.m. (-0.4 ft.); Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks
• Nov. 25, Friday — 6:27 p.m. (-1.9 ft.); Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, Mocrocks
• Nov. 26, Saturday — 7:14 p.m. (-1.8 ft.); Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks
• Dec. 10, Saturday — 6:30 p.m. (-0.5 ft.); Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks
• Dec. 22, Thursday — 4:40 p.m. (-0.9 ft.); Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks
• Dec. 23, Friday — 5:29 p.m. (-1.4); Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, Mocrocks
CLATSOP COUNTY APPLICANTS SOUGHT FOR AMBULANCE SERVICE AREA ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Clatsop County is seeking applicants for open seats on the Ambulance Service Area Advisory Committee.
The committee provides input to the county Board of Commissioners on the ambulance service plan and ambulance service franchisee. The committee will review the service plan as part of mandated update of the document and recommend possible changes to the board.
The openings are for members who have no association with the emergency medical system. The county board of commissioners will make the appointments.
To apply, obtain an application form and return it to the Clatsop County Manager’s Office at 800 Exchange St., Suite 410, Astoria OR 97103, (503) 325-1000. Forms are available from the County Manager’s Office or can be downloaded from the county website www.co.clatsop.or.us at “Committee application forms” under “Administration/Board of Commissioners.”
The committee provides input to the county Board of Commissioners on the ambulance service plan and ambulance service franchisee. The committee will review the service plan as part of mandated update of the document and recommend possible changes to the board.
The openings are for members who have no association with the emergency medical system. The county board of commissioners will make the appointments.
To apply, obtain an application form and return it to the Clatsop County Manager’s Office at 800 Exchange St., Suite 410, Astoria OR 97103, (503) 325-1000. Forms are available from the County Manager’s Office or can be downloaded from the county website www.co.clatsop.or.us at “Committee application forms” under “Administration/Board of Commissioners.”
PIKEMINNOW SEASON EXTENDED
Anglers participating in the pikeminnow sport-reward fishery program get 16 more days of fishing. The pikeminnow season was slated to end Sept. 30 but will now stay open until Sunday, Oct. 16.
The program pays registered anglers $4 to $8 per fish, nine inches or longer. The more fish an angler catches, the more each pikeminnow they hook is worth. Last year the top fisherman in the program earned more than $80,000 in just five-months of fishing.
Northern pikeminnow are voracious eaters, consuming millions of young salmon and steelhead each year. Research shows reducing pikeminnow numbers helps to increase salmon and steelhead populations.
Since 1990, anglers paid through the program, have removed nearly 4 million pikeminnow from the Columbia and Snake Rivers reducing predation on young salmon and steelhead by 40 percent.
The program is administered by the Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission and is funded by the Bonneville Power Administration.
For more information about the program call 800-858-9015 or visit http://www.pikeminnow.org/
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