Coast Guard suspends search near Cannon Beach, Ore.

The Coast Guard has suspended the search for two people near Cannon Beach, Ore., Saturday. At approximately 5 p.m., a beachgoer reported that they had seen two people climbing on rocks at Hug Point, and shortly later could no longer see the individuals. An MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew from Coast Guard Air Station Astoria, Ore., 47-foot motor lifeboat crew from Station Tillamook Bay, Ore., and Cannon Beach Fire and Rescue crew deployed to conduct a search of the area. After a thorough search, rescue efforts were suspended at approximately 8 p.m. pending any further information. The owners of all vehicles parked in the area where confirmed accounted for. Weather conditions were overcast, winds calm and seas were at five feet. "As boating and beach recreation season begins to become more active, the Coast Guard encourages the public to report any persons appearing to be in distress," said Ken Stuber, Operations Unit Controller for Sector Columbia River.

Clatsop County Board of Commissioners Highlights Wednesday, April 25, 2012 regular meeting

Service contract transferred The board voted to approve the transfer of county services for the developmentally disabled from Columbia Community Mental Health to Clatsop Behavioral Healthcare. Columbia Community Mental Health, which has provided residential and vocational services to about 180 clients since 2006, informed the county in March that it would end its contract effective July 1. Clatsop Behavioral Healthcare is the county’s contract provider of mental health and alcohol and drug prevention and treatment services. A one-year contract assigning the agency the developmentally disabled services will be brought to the board in May or June. Ordinance amended, event permit approved The board amended the county’s Social Gathering Ordinance to eliminate ambiguities in the original wording. The ordinance, adopted in December 2011, requires the organizers of large events held in the unincorporated county to obtain permits that regulate numbers of attendees, hours of operation, sanitation, fire protection and other issues. The new language of the amendment prohibits events from occurring between 12 a.m. midnight and 9 a.m. without the specific approval of the board of commissioners. Following approval of the amendment, the board unanimously approved a permit under the Social Gathering Ordinance for organizers of the Run 21 event, an annual fundraising gathering of motorcycle riders in the Birkenfeld area July 27-29 organized by the SE Portland Chapter of ABATE of Oregon. Ocean planning reviewed The board opened a public hearing on the proposed Goal 19-Ocean Resources amendment to the county comprehensive land-use plan. No testimony was offered – the hearing will be continued at the board’s May 23 meeting. The amendment would provide the county an avenue to review applications for developments within the territorial sea, the three-mile section of ocean off the county coastline. While the State of Oregon reserves final jurisdiction on the approval of developments, the Goal 19 element is designed to give the county the opportunity to comment on applications’ potential effects on fisheries, scenic values and other resources. Fair Board expansion eyed The board directed staff to begin the process of expanding the membership of the Clatsop County Fair Board from five to seven, following testimony from former Fair Board member Jack Edwards, who the board of commissioners on March 28 voted to replace on the Fair Board with Mike Nelson. Edwards questioned why he was not re-appointed, pointing to his six years of service on the Fair Board. Planner position expanded The board unanimously approved a staffing addition in the Community Development Department. A planner/code enforcement position will be expanded to create one fulltime planner position and one fulltime code enforcement position. Community Development Director Hiller West explained that, despite the recession, demand for building code enforcement has increased, while the department is experiencing the need for additional planner services with the additional of a planning overlay in the Arch Cape community and the new Social Gathering ordinance. Since 2008 the Planning and Building divisions have together seen the elimination of four positions. Total cost of the staff increase is approximately $72,000. Half of the cost would be paid out of the county General Fund and half out of the fee-supported Building Codes budget. County code reviewed The board held a discussion on proposed updates to the county code of regulations. County Manager Duane Cole explained that the code – which codifies all county ordinances except for land-use ordinances – was subjected to review to find ordinances that need revision or removal, including ordinances based on state statutes that have been declared unconstitutional or dealing with property no longer owned by the county. The completed code will be presented to the board for final approval in late May or June. Other Business In other business the board: - Approved a contract for $125,000 with Helligso Construction for the construction of a new Sheriff’s Office Work Crew building. The 36-by-48-foot facility, to be built at the Clatsop County Fairgrounds, will be funded out of the $135,000 proceeds from the sale of property on Highway 202 that formerly housed the Work Crew facilities. Work Crew personnel will perform part of the work. Chairman Peter Huhtala and Commissioner Debra Birkby voted no. Birkby said the scope of the project was excessive. - Approved revisions to the county’s property management policies. The changes include: increasing the minimum required offer for county-owned property that has failed to draw bids at auction; requiring cash payment for sales of less than $20,000; and revising rules for sales or transfers to non-profit entities. - Approved a letter to Greater Oregon Behavioral Health, Inc. (GOBHI) offering recommendations regarding its proposal to become the designated Coordinated Care Organization for Clatsop County under new state legislation establishing the CCO program.

Training for New and Returning Clatsop Community College Literacy Tutors

On Saturday, May 5, there will be a free training workshop for Clatsop Community College literacy tutors and other interested persons. The training will be from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in Clatsop Community College’s Columbia Hall, room 221, 1651 Lexington Avenue, Astoria. Call or email Eileen Purcell to reserve a seat (503-338-2557; epurcell@clatsopcc.edu). What strategies do good readers use to comprehend what they are reading? We will discuss the fundamental elements of a reading lesson, geared towards adult learners. Participants will learn basic strategies to engender reading comprehension during a “Recipe for Reading” workshop. Tutors will learn about Guided Reading techniques that can help students begin to monitor themselves as they read.

OREGON PRIMARY BALLOTS SET TO GO OUT FRIDAY

Ballots for the May 15 primary election will begin arriving in mailboxes of Clatsop County voters Friday and Saturday, April 27-28. The May election includes Democratic and Republican primary races for President, Congress, Oregon Legislature and other statewide races, as well as non-partisan contests for Circuit Court Judge, Clatsop County Sheriff and two Clatsop County Board of Commissioners seats. Three local measures are also on the ballot. Five candidates are in the race for Clatsop County Sheriff. If no single candidate receives more than 50 percent of the total vote, the top two vote-getters will appear on the November general election ballot. John Dunzer of Seaside and Sarah Nebeker of Gearhart are running for the District 2 seat on the Clatsop County Board of Commissioners to replace current District 2 Commissioner Patricia Roberts, who is not seeking another term. Dirk Rohne, District 4 Commissioner, is unopposed for re-election to that seat. Two Clatsop County measures are on the ballot. Measure 4-155 would prohibit the display of elephants and other circus animals in the unincorporated county. Measure 4-156 is a $14 million general obligation bond to fund the proposed expansion of the Clatsop County Jail in Astoria. A third measure, 4-157, asks voters in the Knappa-Svensen-Burnside Rural Fire Protection District to approve up to $695,000 in general obligation bonds to fund vehicle and equipment acquisitions. For more information contact the Clerk and Elections Office at (503) 325-8511 or go to the Clatsop County website, www.co.clatsop.or.us and click on “May 15, 2012 Primary Election.”

APPLICATIONS WELCOMED FOR CLATSOP PLANNING COMMISSION SEATS

Clatsop County is taking applications for two positions on the county Planning Commission. Both seats are for four-year terms ending June 30, 2016. The Planning Commission holds land-use hearings, reviews the county’s zoning ordinances and comprehensive land-use plan and advises the county commissioners on land-use issues. The seven-member committee usually meets once a month for a full day. Applications must be turned in by May 21 to be considered for an appointment by the Board of Commissioners. Application forms are available online at www.co.clatsop.or.us under “Quick Links-Citizen Involvement,” from the office at 800 Exchange St., Suite 410, or by calling (503) 325-1000.

Family Fishing Event April 28 at Trojan Pond

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) is hosting a Family Fishing Event Saturday, April 28 at Trojan Pond near Rainier. Staff and volunteer fishing instructors will be present at the event to offer helpful tips to families who want to learn how to fish. The department will loan out rods, reels and tackle and provide bait to anyone who needs it. The event will take place from 9:30 a.m. It is free and open to the public. “This is a great way to get the family out to enjoy a day of outdoor recreation,” said Jeff Fulop, youth fishing event coordinator for ODFW’s North Willamette Watershed District. “These events give parents an opportunity see how fun a day of fishing with the kids can be.” Under Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations, anglers aged 13 and under do not require a license, while those 14-17 must have a juvenile license, which can be purchased for $9 from ODFW offices and license outlets. Trojan Pond is a 15-acre lake located on the north side of Highway 30 in Prescott, just southeast of Rainier.

STAFF REDUCTIONS PROPOSED IN UPCOMING CLATSOP COUNTY BUDGET

Clatsop County proposes to eliminate several staff positions in its upcoming budget in the face of rising costs, limited revenue and reduced service needs. The proposed 2012-13 fiscal year budget, released today, cuts three fulltime and one half-time positions and leaves two vacant jobs unfilled. The cuts are proposed in order to close an estimated $500,000 gap between county departments’ original requested budgets and revenue forecasts for the upcoming year. The projected budget shortfall is the result of several factors, including a 15-percent increase in health insurance costs and contracted cost-of-living salary increases for staff. These and other increases would boost spending next year by close to 3 percent under the county’s current staffing levels. At the same time, property tax revenue is forecast to grow by just 2 percent. Proposed to be cut are: · One cartographer position in the Assessment and Taxation Department · One administrative support position in the County Clerk’s Office · One clinical services manager in Public Health Department · 0.6 FTE (fulltime equivalent) administrative support in Assessment and Taxation In addition, two currently vacant positions – emergency services manager and a parole and probation officer – are proposed to be left unfilled. At this time all cuts are proposed and subject to approval by the county budget committee and board of commissioners. The budget committee is scheduled to review the budget May 8. The proposed 2012-13 budget totals $54,801,500, compared to $60,102,992 in the current year. “These financial times pose challenges, although Clatsop County has not been impacted as severely as others,” County Manager Duane Cole said. “With the careful allocation of resources, we’re maintaining vital county services with the available funds.” The staffing reductions would take effect at the beginning of the next fiscal year, July 1. But employees in the four affected positions were notified March 23 of the proposed cuts. Because of rules in the union contracts covering those positions, the affected employees may have “bumping rights” to move to other positions in the county, depending on seniority. Most of the proposed staff cuts were targeted at departments where activity has slowed as a result of the economic recession. The construction slow-down has led to a drop in property-related work and document-recording in Assessment and Taxation and the Clerk’s Office. The Public Health clinical services manager position was proposed for elimination due to continued reductions in federal and state funding for health-related services. The budget proposes to add one FTE in the Community Development Department by expanding a planner/code specialist position into two fulltime positions, one devoted solely to planning and the other to code enforcement. The demand for code enforcement has remained constant despite the construction slowdown, and the recent establishment of a planning overlay for the Arch Cape community has added additional design review duties for the department. Half the increased cost would be covered by the General Fund and half by the fee-supported Building Codes budget. The board of commissioners is scheduled to vote on this staffing increase at its April 25 meeting. In addition, the budget proposes that a half-time, non-management emergency services coordinator position be increased to fulltime, to partly cover the vacant emergency services manager post. Along with the personnel cuts, department heads also have identified a total of $938,592 in savings in materials and services, equipment replacement and other areas in their respective 2012-13 budgets. In the previous two years the county has cut or left vacant 12 positions, including two management posts. Spending decisions are guided by the board of commissioners’ budget policies, which prioritize county services for funding and include, among others, the following guidelines: · No new staff positions or programs unless specifically approved by the board of commissioners; · Money saved during the year to be carried over to the next budget year; · No “back-filling” or replacing lost state or federal dollars with county funds. The complete proposed 2012-13 budget is viewable on the county website, www.co.clatsop.or.us, and copies will be available to view at public libraries in Astoria, Cannon Beach, Seaside and Warrenton, as well as at the Clatsop County Manager’s Office, 800 Exchange St., Suite 410, Astoria.

SECOND ANNUAL HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE DAY SET FOR MAY 5 IN SEASIDE

Are hidden dangers lurking in your home? Cleansers, pesticides and other chemicals make our lives more convenient, but they can also pose health risks. To help local residents get rid of unused or unneeded hazardous waste products in their homes, Clatsop County is hosting its second annual Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day, Saturday, May 5, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Seaside Public Works facility at 1387 Ave. U, Seaside. County residents can bring in a variety of toxic, flammable and other materials for disposal at no charge. The following items are examples of what will be accepted: · Bug, weed, pest killers · Poisons, cleaners, batteries · Paints, stains, thinners, solvents, wood preservatives · Car and boat fluids, gas, antifreeze · Mercury-containing thermometers, fluorescent light tubes, compact fluorescent bulbs · Toxic home arts, photography and hobby supplies The Collection Day is the product of the Clatsop County Household Hazardous Waste Program, a collaborative project between the county, cities, Western Oregon Waste (WOW) and other stakeholders to develop a comprehensive strategy for reducing and properly disposing of residential hazardous waste. Each year the program hosts a waste collection event, alternating between the north and south county. The program is funded by a small surcharge on all solid waste going through WOW’s Transfer Station in Astoria. Clean Harbors Environmental Services, a national hazardous waste management company, is contracted to collect and properly dispose of the materials brought to the Collection Day events. Last year’s inaugural event in Warrenton collected more than 70,000 pounds of material, including 18,000 pounds of pesticides or poisons, 9,000 pounds of flammable liquids, 11,000 pounds of non-recyclable paint products and 1,200 pounds of fluorescent light bulbs containing mercury. The following materials will NOT be accepted at the May 5 event: · Medical waste, including syringes and other “sharps” · Medications · Explosives · Radioactive or asbestos material · Construction waste · Business waste* *A collection time for businesses that generate less than 220 pounds of hazardous waste a month, designated as Conditionally Exempt Generators (CEGs), will be held Friday, May 4 in Seaside by APPOINTMENT ONLY – no drop-ins will be accepted. For CEG registration call Clean Harbors Environmental Services at (503) 305-2158 or email ranf.alan@cleanharbors.com. Properly getting rid of common hazardous materials can reduce a variety of risks, according to Maureen Taylor, Household Hazardous Waste Program Coordinator. “Our mission is to provide a safe, easy way for residents to dispose of toxic dangerous products accumulating around their home,” she said. “We know this will decrease accidental poisoning and injuries to our children and pets, prevent unnecessary exposure to our waste haulers and fire fighters that come into contact with hazardous chemicals on the job, and decrease environmental damages that occur when people improperly discard hazardous wastes into the sewer, storm drains or on the ground.” Residents with material for the Collection Day event should keep the products in their original containers, secured with lids, and placed in boxes. For more information, go to “Household Hazardous Waste” at www.co.clatsop.or.us or call Clatsop County Public Health at (503) 325-8500.

Coast Guard suspends search for person in the water near Columbia River entrance Saturday

The Coast Guard suspended a search for a person in the water near the Columbia River entrance on the border of Oregon and Washington, Saturday. Coast Guard Sector Columbia River, located in Astoria, received a call from the outbound 591-foot bulk carrier motor-vessel Matisse, reporting a person from the vessel had fallen overboard near the Columbia River entrance wearing a yellow work helmet but no life jacket at approximately 12:50 a.m. Sector Columbia River launched an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew from Air Station Astoria and a 47-foot response boat crew from Station Cape Disappointment in Ilwaco, Wash. The crews arrived on scene and searched along with the crew of the Matisse and the crew of the Bar Pilot Vessel Columbia. Crews continued a rigorous and thorough search throughout the night, recovering from the water a yellow work helmet and a life ring that had been thrown toward the person in the water by a Matisse crew member. At 7:30 a.m., the Coast Guard suspended the search for the person in the water. The approximate conditions in the vicinity of the incident were 11-foot swells, 50 degrees Fahrenheit water and 45 degrees Fahrenheit air temperatures.

North Tillamook County Tsunami Inundation Map Release

The Emergency Volunteer Corps of Nehalem is hosting a Presentation and Community Rally where the new Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) Tsunami Inundation Maps and Evacuation Brochures for the North County region will be released. This event is scheduled for Sunday, April 29th, 11am, at the North Coast Recreation District (NCRD) Auditorium. The new North County maps will include the areas of Neahkahnie, Manzanita, Nehalem, Wheeler and Rockaway. From 11:00am-12:30pm there is a BBQ Lunch Fundraiser with a raffle where you could win a Sidewinder Water Purifier for your 72 hour kit, then a 1:00pm DOGAMI will have a map presentation to explain the newly released maps. There will also be Emergency Information Displays set up in the Gymnasium.

SERIOUS INJURY TRAFFIC CRASH INTO RIVER - HIGHWAY 6 EAST OF TILLAMOOK

Oregon State Police (OSP) is continuing the investigation into Tuesday afternoon's single vehicle serious injury crash in which a car with two occupants traveled off Highway 6 into the Wilson River east of Tillamook. The car's driver was able to get out of the vehicle with the help of two witnesses, but his wife remained in the car for about 30 minutes before a team of fire personnel were able to remove her.

Updated information indicates on April 17, 2012 at approximately 5:00 p.m. a 2003 Honda Accord driven by JAMES A. GARLING SR, age 70, from Tillamook, was westbound on Highway 6 near milepost 6. The driver said he may have fallen asleep as the car traveled into a ditch and struck a hillside. The car then traveled across the highway off the south side shoulder and down about a hundred foot embankment before going into the water.

The driver was able to get out of the car on his own and was helped to shore by two witnesses. They weren't able to get to the car where his wife, HELGA GARLING, age 70, remained inside.

The vehicle was reportedly upside down with the rear axle area visible when emergency responders started arriving. Thirty Tillamook Fire District firefighters, including 26 volunteers and four staff, responded to the scene. Four firefighters, including three trained swift water rescue technicians, went into the water with an estimated current of 15 mph. Working in conjunction with fire personnel at the top of the embankment, a cable was attached to the vehicle and it was manuevered to the point that the doors were visible and accessible. The passenger was removed and brought back to the top of the embankment.

Fire personnel started CPR on the passenger as her husband was being transported to Tillamook General Hospital. HELGA GARLING was later transported by ambulance to Tillamook County General Hospital and then transferred to Legacy Emanuel Medical Center for further medical treatment. According to Legacy Emanuel, she is in critical condition Wednesday morning.

The highway was closed for approximately two hours during response and vehicle removal. Tillamook County Sheriff's Office and ODOT also assisted at the scene.

Morning razor clam dig approved April 21-23 as season winds down

Washington State fishery managers have approved a series of morning razor clam digs April 21-23 at several ocean beaches after the latest round of marine toxin tests showed the clams are safe to eat.

With the state’s razor clam season nearing an end, Long Beach and Twin Harbors will be open for digging all three days, while Copalis and Mocrocks will be open on Monday, April 23 only.

No digging will be allowed on any beaches after noon.

“We have just enough clams available for harvest at Copalis and Mocrocks to offer one more weekday dig,” said Dan Ayres, coastal shellfish manager for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). “We’ll see where we are with the other beaches after this opening.”

Copalis Beach lies south of the Copalis River and includes Ocean Shores, Oyhut, Ocean City and Copalis. Mocrocks Beach is north of the Copalis River and includes Iron Springs, Roosevelt Beach, Seabrook, Pacific Beach and Moclips.

Proposed beach openings for upcoming digs, along with morning low tides, are:

April 21, Saturday (7:28 a.m., -0.3 feet): Long Beach, Twin Harbors only

April 22, Sunday (8:01 a.m., -0.4 feet): Long Beach and Twin Harbors only

April 23, Monday (8:35 a.m., -0.4 feet): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis and Mocrocks

Under state law, diggers can take 15 razor clams per day, and are required to keep the first 15 they dig. Each digger's clams must be kept in a separate container.

Diggers need a valid 2012-13 fishing license to participate in the upcoming opening, since all 2011-12 licenses expired March 31. The exception is young people under age 15, who may fish for free.

Workshop: Building Blocks for a Sucessful Downtown

The Astoria Downtown Historic District Association and Pacific Power are presenting a May 16 forum for business and property owners.

"Building Blocks for a Successful Downtown," features keynote speaker Michele Reeves, an urban strategist with an extensive background in commercial real estate, commercial development consulting, and retail leasing. Also on the evening agenda, a panel of local business and property owners will answer questions about what has worked in their successful enterprises.

This free forum will be held at the Banker's Ballroom, 1215 Duane St. in Astoria. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; program begins at 5:45.

Sponsors for the event are ADHDA, Pacific Power, Astoria-Warrenton Chamber of Commerce and Ambassadors, The Banker's Suite & Ballroom, City of Astoria, Coast River Business Journal, Craft 3, Ohana Media Group and U.S. Bank.

R.S.V.P by May 9. Call (503) 791-7940 or email blaire@astoriadowntown.com.

Experience Clatsop Community College Kids’ College this Summer

CCC Kids’ College will make math, hands-on science, water-safety and Coast Guard lore, writing, story-telling, and more fun and enriching for 8 to 12 year old students this summer. CCC announces a series of four morning camps, organized in 2-hour sessions, from July 9 through August 2 at the main campus, 1651 Lexington Avenue, Astoria. Sessions will operate from 10:00am to 12:00pm, Monday through Thursday. Each camp is limited to 20 students to ensure personalized attention.

The purpose of CCC Kids’ College is to provide a summer of memories and adventure for up to 80 middle school students. Sessions will help students develop and expand their interests, stimulate creativity and provide unique learning opportunities in a fun and safe environment. http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif

“CCC Kids’ College demonstrates our continuing commitment to offering quality educational experiences for the citizens of Clatsop County and beyond. It’s an innovative and fun summer program that will inspire each of the participating students,” says CCC President Larry Galizio.

Registration for this new summertime educational experience opens April 30 and continues through June 28. Additional class descriptions and details, as well as the downloadable Registration Form, can be found at http://www.clatsopcc.edu/community/ccc-kids-college-summer-program.

PORT COMMISSION MEETS TUES

The Port of Astoria Commission will meet in Executive session tomorrow (Tues 4/17) evening at 5pm. The regular meeting will follow at 6pm. Included in regular meeting agenda items are a dredge permit update, discussion about a Lines Hauling Vessel, Cruise Ship berth location and a Lektro job update.

BLUE RIBBON CAMPAIGN IN ASTORIA

Blue ribbons have appeared affixed to stakes at the small park space at 15th and Commercial streets in Astoria. One hundred of the ribbons were installed on Friday to raise awareness of the impact of child abuse.Each ribbon represents a case of a child who was the victim of maltreatment in Clatsop County last year, whether through emotional abuse, neglect, physical abuse or sexual abuse.
April is recognized nationally as Child Abuse Prevention Month. Locally, the Clatsop County Commission on Children and Families, and other stakeholders, have launched a “Keep Kids Safe” campaign designed to increase awareness of the toll child abuse takes and ways to prevent it.

Marine Board Approves Grant for Clatsop County

Clatsop County Parks Department received a grant from the Oregon State Marine Board to refurbish the existing boarding floats at the John Day Ramp. The Marine Board approved the grant at its quarterly Board meeting on April 11, in Springfield.

The John Day Ramp on the John Day River also provides access to the Columbia River, which is the most heavily used waterbody in Oregon. Recent improvements at this site improve the ability to better manage heavy use during larger fish runs. The existing boarding floats were constructed in 1994 and are showing signs their heavy use. Still, the structure is sound and only the exterior components of the floats need to be replaced. New refurbished floats will eliminate potential damage to boats and reduce any tripping hazard for boaters.

Clatsop County was awarded $23,000 in state boater funds, combined with $11,000 of cash match from the county and $2,355 in in-kind funds. The projected total cost is $36,355.

Marine Board Approves Grant for City of Warrenton

The Marine Board has approved a boating facility grant for the City of Warrenton to pave the overflow parking area at Hammond Marina. The Marine Board approved the grant at its quarterly Board meeting on April 11, in Springfield.

Hammond Marina is a popular launch site on the Columbia River in Clatsop County. It is the closest access point to Buoy 10 and during fishing season the parking area is packed with trucks and boat trailers. Currently the parking area is gravel. Paved parking with striped stalls will improve the maneuverability and make the parking area safer and more efficient.

The City of Warrenton was awarded $250,000 in state boater funds, which will be combined with a $100,000 cash match from the city as well as $5,300 in in-kind funds. The projected total cost is $355,300.

ODFW seeks input on salmon seasons for North and Central Coast rivers

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife will host two public meetings in April to solicit input on regulations for the 2012 fall chinook and coho salmon seasons on the North and Central Coasts.

The meetings are scheduled for April 25 in Tillamook and April 26 in Newport. Discussions will include inland sport chinook fisheries and sport wild coho fisheries on the North and Mid-coast. Fishery managers are predicting generally improved fishing prospects in 2012, thanks to continued good forecasts of chinook and coho salmon in many watersheds.

According to Chris Knutsen, ODFW fish biologist in Tillamook, the fall chinook return on North Coast rivers should be somewhat better than the last few years, prompting ODFW to consider less restrictive fishing regulations. However, he does not expect a return to permanent rules.

There also is good news for wild coho fisheries, with the possibility of larger quotas on some North Coast rivers, Knutsen said.

On the Central Coast salmon returns have been good in recent years, said Derek Wilson, ODFW fish biologist in Newport. Anglers can expect chinook and coho fisheries to be similar to what they saw during the 2011 season.

ODFW staff will use public feedback from these meetings to develop recommendations for the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission to consider at its June 7 and 8 meeting in Salem.

Both meetings will be from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. The meeting dates, locations, and ODFW contacts are:

Tillamook
April 25
Oregon Dept. of Forestry, 5005 Third St., Tillamook
Contact: Chris Knutsen, ODFW, (503) 842-2741

Newport
April 26
Hallmark Resort Newport, 744 Elizabeth, Newport
Contact: Bob Buckman, ODFW, (541) 265-8306 X224

Clatsop County Board of Commissioners Highlights Wednesday, April 11, 2012 regular meeting

Volunteers honored

The board recognized the hundreds of volunteers who donate time to the county each year, and gave out awards to the top volunteers of 2011.
Honorees were:
· Individual Volunteer of the Year – Linda Dygert
· Outstanding Advisory Board Member – Bruce Francis (Planning Commission)
· Outstanding Volunteer Group – Amateue Radio Emergency Services (ARES)
· Outstanding Individuals Within a Group – Tate Dellelo/Adopt-A-Road; Dave Rouse/Reserve Deputy Sheriff, Clatsop County Search and Rescue and High-Angle Rescue teams; Mark Seavey/CADY mentoring program

Health initiative discussed

The board heard a presentation from County Manager Duane Cole, Public Health Director Margo Lalich and others on the Coordinated Care Organization (CCO) program now under development at the direction of the Oregon Legislature.

The CCO initiative is designed to provide Medicare and Medicaid recipients coordinated care options designed to reduce costly critical care visits and ultimately improve health and reduce healthcare costs.

Two entities – CareOregon and Greater Oregon Health Benefits Inc., have expressed interest in creating a CCO covering Clatsop County and neighboring counties.

The county is engaged in the process with local healthcare providers, the commissioners heard, and were told that in the near future the board may be asked to approve a letter commenting on the proposed CCO.

Comment letter sent

The board voted to direct staff to draft a letter to the Oregon Employment Relations Board (ERB) regarding a request by represented employees of the Clatsop County Parole and Probation Division to join a different union.

The six Parole and Probation staff have sought approval to leave the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) and join the Federation of Parole and Probation Officers (FOPPO). The Parole and Probation personnel are currently represented by AFSCME Local 2746, which also represents Sheriff’s Office employees.

The letter will request that the ERB conduct a hearing on the Parole and Probation staff request. Increasing the number of bargaining units with whom the county must bargain would add to the cost and complexity of negotiating labor contracts.

Unionized county employees are currently represented by four bargaining units: Sheriff/Parole and Probation; Courthouse/Roads; District Attorney’s Office; and Nurses. The Sheriff, Courthouse and District Attorney units are all represented by AFSCME; the nurses unit is represented by the Oregon Nurses Association.

The county was set to begin negotiations this month with the sheriff’s office bargaining unit on a new contract. Those talks will be postponed until the ERB’s decision on the Parole and Probation request.

Committee appointment

The board appointed Linda Eyerman to the Southwest Coastal Citizens Advisory Committee.

MONEY SMART WORKSHOP OFFERS PARENTS BUDGETING TIPS

Parents, do you have trouble finding money for those unexpected bills? Could you use some guidance figuring out how to support a family every month on your household income?

Get answers at the Money Smart Workshop, 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 19 at Broadway Middle School in Seaside.

Participants will receive help with basic budgeting, saving for emergencies, planning for the future and how to work smarter, not harder. Childcare will be available.

The event is sponsored by North Coast Parenting and the Seaside School District.

For more information and to register, contact North Coast Parenting at (503) 325-8673 ext. 4.

BLUE RIBBON CAMPAIGN BRINGS ATTENTION TO CHILD ABUSE

The Clatsop County Commission on Children and Families, in partnership with other local stakeholders, is promoting awareness of April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month with an event Friday, April 13 in Astoria.
Volunteers will install 100 blue ribbons on the small park space at 15th Street between Marine Drive and Commercial Street in downtown Astoria beginning at 12:30 p.m. The event, a kick-off to the commission’s “Keep Kids Safe” campaign, recognizes the more than 100 children in Clatsop County who were victims of maltreatment in the past year, whether emotional abuse, neglect, physical abuse or sexual abuse.

All forms of maltreatment take a tremendous toll on a child’s ability to develop healthy brain pathways, and can lead to serious health issues throughout adult life.

The “Keep Kids Safe” campaign is a project of the Commission on Children and Families, Clatsop County Juvenile Department, CASA, Hope House, Women’s Resource Center and North Coast Parenting. Friday’s ribbon-placing event is made possible by support from the City of Astoria and Home Depot.

‘MAKE PARENTING A PLEASURE’ CLASS BEGINS IN KNAPPA APRIL 19

‘Make Parenting a Pleasure,’ an interactive parenting group that focuses on the enhancement of parenting skills, begins Thursday, April 19 at Hilda Lahti School, Knappa.

The program runs for eight weeks and is appropriate for parents with children between the ages of 0-8.

Topics covered include: child development, communication, stress management, and discipline techniques. This class is also a wonderful way to meet other families in the community that are having similar experiences in parenting.

Cost for the class is $25 and, scholarships are available. Childcare is provided.

For more information and to register contact North Coast Parenting at (503) 325-8673 ext. 4.

CLATSOP COMMISSIONERS HONOR COUNTY VOLUNTEERS

PHOTO: Clatsop County Board of Commissioners Chair Peter Huhtala presents Linda Dygert with the Volunteer of the Year Award at Wednesday’s board meeting.

The Clatsop County Board of Commissioners on Wednesday honored the many local citizens who donate their time to help make their community a better place to live.

The commissioners recognized the recipients of the 2011 Volunteer of the Year awards and approved a proclamation thanking all county volunteers.

In 2011, 537 volunteers donated a total of 21,653 hours of service to a county – work valued at almost a half-million dollars.

Award winners are:

· Individual Volunteer of the Year – Linda Dygert

· Outstanding Advisory Board Member – Bruce Francis

· Outstanding Individuals Within a Group – Tate Dellelo/Adopt-a-Road; Dave Rouse/Reserve Deputy Sheriff, Clatsop County Search and Rescue and High-Angle Rescue teams; Mark Seavey/CADY

· Outstanding Volunteer Group – Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES)

Linda Dygert won the Individual Volunteer of the Year Award for her work at the Clatsop County Animal Shelter. Dygert has volunteered at the facility for 10 years, up to six days a week, handling a wide variety of tasks from showing animals for adoption, transporting them to veterinary visits and assisting with office work. She is secretary of Clatsop Animal Assistance, the non-profit group that helps care for shelter animals, and also offers her own home as a foster caretaker for animals needing extra time away from the shelter.

Dygert was nominated for the award by Steven Hildreth, Animal Control Supervisor.

“With everything she has done and continues to do for the shelter, we can never say thank you enough for being one of the best people we have ever known,” he said.

Bruce Francis is chairman of the Clatsop County Planning Commission, in which role he facilitates the panel’s meetings and brings members’ viewpoints into a coherent discussion ending in legally supportable and appropriate decisions on a wide variety of land-use questions. The panel most recently completed a thorough review of the county’s newly adopted Strategic Plan.

Tate Dellelo is a volunteer in the county’s Adopt-A-Road program and picks up roadside litter along 19th Street and Ensign Lane in Warrenton. While most Adopt-A-Road participants are in groups, and are only required to clean their assigned roads twice a year, Dellelo cleans 19th and Ensign every day, rain or shine.

Dave Rouse is a reserve deputy with the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office and is a member of the department’s volunteer Search and Rescue Team and High-Angle Rescue Team. A dedicated participant in all three groups, he shares his expertise with other team members.

Mark Seavey is a member of CADY (Caring Adults Developing Youth) mentoring program and was nominated by one of his student mentees, Nicolas Morse, who praised Seavey for not only involving him in activities like hiking Saddle Mountain and a Trailblazers game, but also introducing him to the possibilities of a military career.

Members of the Amateur Radio Emergency Services group provide a critical communications link for local agencies during emergencies. The ARES group, nominated by Clatsop County Emergency Services Coordinator Tom Manning, regularly drills to test its procedures, and strives to ensure members keep up with the growing list of training requirements.

“They put in hundreds of hours to literally save lives,” Manning said.

Join the OneShirt Challenge at Clatsop Community College

Clatsop Community College has joined the 2012 One Shirt National Collegiate Clothing Challenge. During Earth Week, April 16-21, students will collect new and gently used clothing to be donated to the non-profit organization, The NetShed, at Astoria High School. The NetShed gives away about 100 items of clothing a day to students in need. Formal boys’ wear is in especially high demand.

Clothing drop-off bins will be located on the CCC main campus in Towler Hall, Columbia Hall, and the Student Services Center. Drop-off bins will also be located at TLC Federal Credit Union, Bank of America and ABECO locations.

Kayaker rescued near Coos Bay, Oregon

The Coast Guard recued a 64-year-old man after his kayak overturned near Coos Bay, Ore., Tuesday.

Coast Guard Group/Air Station North Bend received a call at approximately 12:43 p.m., reporting an overturned kayaker in Sunset Bay, approximately 2 miles southwest of the Coos Bay entrance.

Group/Air Station North Bend diverted an already airborne MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew to Sunset Bay.

The helicopter crew arrived on scene and spotted the kayaker, who was wearing a PFD, floating next to his overturned kayak.

The helicopter crew lowered a rescue swimmer, hoisted the man to the helicopter and transported him to Air Station North Bend at approximately 1:23 p.m. He was placed in the care of awaiting local EMS.

Clatsop Commission Meets Wednesday April 11

The Clatsop County Board of Commissioners will hold a work session about Public Health and Coordinated Care Organizations on Wednesday, April 11th at 9am. The regular meeting will follow at 10am, at the Judge Guy Boyington Building at 857 Commercial Street in Astoria. A complete agenda is available at the Clatsop County website.

Port of Astoria Meets Tuesday April 10

The Port of Astoria will hold a Special Meeting on Tuesday, April 10th at 6pm, at the Port’s Board Member Conference Room at 422 Gateway Avenue, Suite 100. Items on the agenda include a projects update and Budget Committee member replacement. The public is welcome.

Clatsop Public Health office closed Monday April 16

The Clatsop County Public Health Department office at 820 Exchange Street in Astoria will be closed on Monday, April 16th for employee training. There will be no clinics or other customer service. For public health emergencies such as food-borne illness or cluster of illnesses, call the 24-hour phone number at (503) 741-0626.

Razor Clam digging is on for this weekend

Fishery managers have approved a morning razor clam dig at several ocean beaches April this weekend and Monday after marine toxin tests confirmed that the clams on those beaches are safe to eat. Three beaches - Long Beach, Twin Harbors and Kalaloch - will be open for morning razor clam digging all three days. Tomorrow diggers can take advantage of an early morning low tide on the Long Beach Peninsula, at 7:36am. On Sunday low tide will occur at 8:23am and Monday’s low tide will be at 9:11am. Mocrocks will be open for two days, April 7-8, and Copalis will be open April 7 for one day only.
No digging will be allowed any day after noon at any of those beaches.

Vancouver Tornado 40th Anniversary Today

By Steve Pierce
President, Oregon Chapter of the American Meteorological Society

The Vancouver tornado of 1972 stands alone in the record books. It is the holy grail of Pacific Northwest tornadoes. Even now, 40 years later, the April 5th 1972 Vancouver tornado is the single deadliest tornado to strike west of the Rocky Mountains in modern history, killing six people and injuring more than 300 in Vancouver, Washington alone. Those who lived through that day witnessed the fury of mother nature to a degree that is not likely to be matched again anytime soon. The 1972 tornado was similar in atmospheric structure to that of the Hazel Dell tornado of January 2008. However, the 1972 tornado was much stronger. The 2008 Hazel Dell tornado was an EF1 on the newer Enhanced Fujita scale that became operational in 2007. Winds were likely between 90-110 MPH in the 2008 Hazel Dell tornado. The Vancouver tornado of 1972 was rated an F3 under the original Fujita scale which came online in 1971. Winds on the older Fujita scale were estimated between 158–206 MPH if rated as an F3, as was the case in the Vancouver tornado of 1972.

Unlike tornados east of the Rockies, tornados in the Pacific Northwest are referred to by many as "cold core" due to their lack of humid and buoyant air. The Pacific ocean keeps our atmosphere relatively mild year round. This is not conducive for the formation of super cell thunderstorms needed to generate the really large and damaging tornados you might see in the Midwest. What makes the 1972 tornado so rare is the fact that it was able to spin up to F3 status and stay on the ground for nearly 8 miles.

Port Security Grant to purchase three regional response vessels and vessel tracking system for Columbia River

The Coast Guard Sector Columbia River's Area Maritime Security Committee (AMSC)has approved a $2.7 million Port Security Grant Program project to purchase three "Regional Response Vessels" with firefighting capability for the lower Columbia River.

The acquisition of these vessels is the culmination of a two-year project to identify marine firefighting vulnerabilities in the Columbia River system and address them through federal grant programs.

Astoria will receive a 35-foot vessel that will be operated by the Astoria Fire Department. The other two boats, 35-feet and 45-feet, will be based in the Vancouver, Wash., port area. Both Astoria and Vancouver port authorities have committed their organizations to maintain and sustain the response vessels for the benefit of the entire river system. Additionally, the new boats will help the Coast Guard in patrolling the ports and responding quickly to a variety of threats. The vessels are expected to be in place by early 2013.

The AMSC includes key maritime stakeholders from Oregon, Washington and Idaho established by Congress to assist the Coast Guard Captain of the Port in ensuring safe and secure marine transportation and commerce. Committee actions are undertaken on behalf of the USCG and the general public, rather than any private entity or individual.

"This funding decision reflects our belief that safety and security are shared responsibilities, and that we can best protect the vital economic engine of the Columbia River system when the private sector and local, state and federal government work together," said Coast Guard Captain Bruce Jones, Captain of the Port for Sector Columbia River. "I applaud our port partners for their comprehensive approach to managing risk and wisely spending scarce grant funds in support of our mutual goals."

The AMSC also approved a $1.9 million Port Security Grant for a vessel tracking system focused on the Columbia and Snake River system. This system will integrate with and extend the vessel tracking system already in place between the mouth of the Columbia River and the Portland/Vancouver area, upriver to Lewiston, Idaho. Until now, lack of resources and challenging topography have severely limited vessel traffic reporting in this area. The Coast Guard, Army Corps of Engineers, and all entities having an interest in river commerce or incident response will benefit from a greater awareness of where ships, tugs and barges are at any given moment.

Astoria Heritage Square Block Party offers food, fun AND free limited edition “Stock in the Block” Certificates for attendees!

The City of Astoria invites all North Coast residents and visitors to become Honorary Astorians on Saturday, April 14to celebrate the groundbreaking for Astoria Heritage Square Phase 1, the Garden of Surging Waves. The groundbreaking Block Party is free and open to the public. “Heritage Square belongs to everyone” says Astoria Mayor Willis L.VanDusen, “and whoever comes to help us celebrate the beginning of this momentous project will get their very own piece of Astoria … and be part of history!” From 1 pm to 4 pm Astoria City staff will offer tours of the newly renovated City Hall. Family friendly activities will take place all afternoon. A special kid’s section will have a “bouncy house”. Popular local band “Ma Barley” will play dance music while Astoria Parks and Recreation staff flip burgers and hot dogs on an outdoor barbeque. Over 36 Astoria restaurants are donating “100 bites” from their establishments, in an outpouring of true community spirit. Van Dusen Beverages is donating all the Pepsi anyone can drink. In addition, Van Dusen Beverages will sample its new line of “1849 Gourmet Coffee”. Numbered collectible “Stock in the Block” Certificates will be given to the first 500 people to claim them at the groundbreaking event. Not only will they be redeemable for a “collectible piece of Astoria” but ten of these certificates will contain a golden seal for a valuable Astoriana treasure!

At the Bank of Astoria, Block Party participants can tell their own personal “Astoria story” which will be shared with the Clatsop County Historical Society. Mayor Van Dusen hopes “to have a real crowd come out and honor the Chinese heritage in Astoria, and take pride in the fact that the City is dedicating a precious piece of downtown Astoria for a public space which will be a source of beauty and inspiration for everyone, forever.” A special “Friend Raising” opportunity at the Bank of Astoria will showcase Garden of Surging Waves art and provide a rare opportunity to buy commemorative Heritage Block Bricks for a one-time only special price of $50 each to help complete Phase 1, the Garden of Surging Waves.

Mayor Van Dusen, State Senator Betsy Johnson, Heritage Square designer Suenn Hoof MulvannyG2 Architecture, the Astoria City Council and other special guests will be part of a short dedication/groundbreaking ceremony which will take place at 1:30 pm. After the program there will be “a special surprise” and Chinese Fireworks to commemorate the groundbreaking for Garden of Surging Waves. Rain or shine, tents, fire engines and street art will make for a festive atmosphere, and Eleventh Street between Duane and Exchange will be closed to cars. Astoria’s “Second Saturday Art Walk” takes place just after the Heritage Square event so the entire town becomes “one huge celebration” says Mayor Van Dusen. “The City of Astoria has shown wisdom and vision for the future in preserving this important space in the heart of our town. The Heritage Square project will be unique in the Northwest. It is of the same magnitude as our iconic Astoria Column, and it will provide a much needed gathering space for those of us who live here and for visitors to our town”.

Beach Facilities Good for Razor Clam Diggers and Plovers

Portable toilets will be available for north Long Beach Peninsula razor clam diggers April 7-9. Willapa National Wildlife Refuge is placing two portable toilets on the beach in an effort to protect threatened western snowy plovers from disturbance during the upcoming dig. The portable toilets can be found at 4.0 and 6.0 miles north of the Oysterville Road Beach Approach. Clam diggers are reminded to remain outside of the signed closure area, and encouraged to use these toilets placed on the beach.

Western snowy plovers inhabit beaches and sparsely vegetated coastal dunes on the Leadbetter Point Unit of Willapa National Wildlife Refuge. They are part of the Pacific coast population found breeding from Washington State to Baja Mexico. Western snowy plovers are classified as a threatened species because their numbers have declined due to habitat loss, human disturbance, and increasing threats from predators.

The western snowy plover is a small shorebird about 6 inches long, with a thin dark bill, and a light-colored body with dark patches on either side of the neck, behind the eye, and on the forehead. Plovers blend in with their surroundings so well that they are extremely hard to see, making it easy for unsuspecting visitors to disturb the birds or even crush the eggs and chicks, never realizing the damage they've caused. For these reasons plover nesting areas are closed to public access during the nesting season from March 15 to September 15 each year.

Enhancing productivity is key to population growth and necessary for reaching the recovery goal of one chick fledged per adult male. In an effort to increase reproductive success, active habitat restoration is an on-going part of management on the refuge. To improve habitat quality and quantity, invasive beach grass is being cleared at Leadbetter Point. Removing the non-native beach grass provides more open sand for nesting plovers and reduces cover for predators that depredate plover nests, chicks, and adults. To date over 125 acres of beach habitat have been restored on the refuge.

For additional information about Willapa National Wildlife Refuge and the western snowy plover visit: www.fws.gov/willapa.