Community effort for Holiday Baskets; Shots fired at DeFazio's office; Plenty of Halloween options.

Community effort coming together for Holiday baskets…

Tomorrow may be Halloween… but there’s already talk in the air of Christmas.
200 – “Of course we started talking about this in September. Getting all the operational stuff handled, sending out the donation request letters, contacting different businesses about whether or not they’ll let us put gift trees in their businesses again this year. General things like that, the nuts and bolts that go into getting it up and running.”

More than 30-years ago it started with the Florence Soroptimist Club wanting to make sure that less fortunate families had the makings of a Holiday meal. Over time, says coordinator Jan Nieberlein (NEE-burr-line), it’s become a widespread effort.
201 – “We’ve been very fortunate in the last couple of years in that Rotarians, Kiwanians, Lions, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, The Key Club, Rhody Princesses, all help us on the day of distribution. It has definitely turned into a community project.”

Distribution is set for December 19th. Last year, they raised $28-thousand and had food and gift boxes for about 500 families… but ran short. This year, says Nieberlein, they’re aiming for $30-thousand and 600 boxes.

The FBI says four shots hit the federal courthouse in Eugene sometime between late Wednesday and early Thursday. Three of them breaking windows in the office of Democratic Representative Peter DeFazio, a fourth striking the wall above the windows. No one was in the office at the time. The FBI said Thursday it's not known whether DeFazio's office was the intended target. It’s also not known if there is any security video

With Halloween falling on a Saturday it seems that there are more planned activities than ever. In addition to the traditional ‘house-to-house’ trick or treating, there are other formal activities … most in the late afternoon to evening hours. Area churches will offer everything from a ‘trunk or treat’ in the Nazarene Church parking lot to the ARK at Siuslaw Valley Christian Center and the “Howl-eluia” at Florence Christian Church. Businesses are getting in on the action… with the Merchants of Old Town welcoming Trick or Treaters from three to five in Old Town and Three Rivers Casino hosting a variety of activities for kids; and the Florence Police Auxiliary will be handing out treats at the Justice Center.

Lane County Animal Services has issued a reminder for pet owners to be alert to the impacts on their furry friends tomorrow night. Pets can become quite agitated with all the activity on streets and at the front door. Rochelle Jones with L-C-A-S suggest that you secure your pets in a quiet room away from activities and be sure to keep your animals away from the treats… many candies, especially chocolate can cause harm.

TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
Prep Cross Country:
For the second year in a row the Siuslaw Vikings swept both sides of the Far West League District Cross Country meet. The boys scored a perfect 15 points, paced by Joe Campbell as individual District Champion. The girls were paced by Raelyn Robinson and Samantha Pummer in second and third overall, scoring 24 points. Both teams will be at the OSAA State Finals in Eugene next week. The girls seeking their sixth straight state title, the boys seeking to regain a crown they last wore in 2004.
Volleyball:
Reedsport wrapped up the Sunset League regular season with a three game loss on the road to Gold Beach.
On the Schedule…
Prep football… no game for the Mapleton Sailors tonight, their matchup against Eddyville was cancelled due to illness and the forfeit goes to the Sailors. The Siuslaw Vikings can clinch a playoff spot with a victory tonight over the Brookings-Harbor Bruins. The pregame show from Brookings High School is set for 6:45 on KCST. Reedsport will host Bandon… both games kick off at seven. // There’s plenty of prep volleyball tomorrow… the Mapleton Sailors will be in Junction City for Mountain West League finals… Siuslaw has the final two matches of the regular season and can clinch a more desirable playoff slot with at least one victory… they face North Bend at 11… Brookings-Harbor at one… both matches at North Bend High School. // And finally, on the college gridiron… UCLA and Oregon State face off at one tomorrow in Corvallis. The pregame show on KCFM is set for noon. At five, number ten ranked Oregon will host number four USC at Autzen Stadium. The pregame show on KCST will come at four.

Habitat project gains preliminary approval; City expands yard debris program; St Vincent de Paul offers financial literacy.

Habitat project to cost more, but approval gained…

The process lasted until midnight Tuesday as the Florence Planning Commission granted preliminary approval for a planned unit development and subdivision for Habitat for Humanity. Habitat director Kate McBroom-Redwine says clearing for a new street into the site near the Booster-Senior Center on 15th Street is expected to begin in the next few weeks with construction on the first of up to 20 homes beginning by late spring. The property actually belongs to the City of Florence. McBroom-Redwine says a land swap with the city for a parcel owned by Habitat near 9th Street is expected to be finalized in the next few weeks. The Planning Commission approval will ultimately end up costing the non-profit group more money. The panel added several conditions, including requirements for more ‘on-street’ parking and lighting of a nature trail. McBroom-Redwine didn’t have an estimate of just how much more those would cost. City staffers noted the Planning Commission was sensitive to an impending grant deadline for Habitat and that’s why they worked late into the night Tuesday, rather than continue the matter to a future meeting.

The City of Florence will be expanding their yard debris dropoff program, but only to those living inside the Urban Growth Boundary. Dunes City officials had asked earlier to possibly include their residents in the ‘green waste’ program offered monthly by Florence. But, discussions at the Florence City Council earlier this month made it clear that body wasn’t interested however. Instead, yard debris, lawn clippings and other woody refuse will only be accepted from within the city’s UGB. They’re still working on the final details. Public Works is also working on a program that would mix the ground debris with waste treatment sludge for possible sale as fertilizer and soil amendment.

The St. Vincent de Paul Society of Lane County is interested in increasing the financial literacy of area residents. They’re offering a free ten-hour course teaching about tracking money, budgeting and savings. The first of four sessions is Tuesday night in the Community Room at Oak Terrace Apartments. More information can be had by calling Colleen Stewart at 687-5820.

The Florence Police Auxiliary will be offering treats on Halloween night at the Justice Center on Ninth Street. Members of the auxiliary will greet any and all kids… in costume or not… at the center between five and 6:30 PM on Saturday. Auxiliary spokesperson Andi Belk says it’s a great way to introduce kids to police as well as give them a safe and fun place to trick or treat.

TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:

You can run off that Halloween candy even before you go trick-or-treating. The Siuslaw Athletic Boosters are hosting the “Move Your Bones” run Saturday morning at Florence Municipal Airport. There’s a no-cost kids ‘fun run’ at nine, then an ‘all-comers’ 5k at 9:30. All proceeds go to support athletics at Siuslaw schools. A registration form is available on-line at KCST.com or at several area businesses.

On the Schedule…
The Mapleton Sailors Volleyball team will be at McKenzie High School tonight for a Mountain West League Volleyball playoff match. A victory would ensure them spot in the OSAA 1A playoffs. If they lose, they still have a chance but will have to win a match at a ‘seeding’ tournament in Junction City on Saturday. In the Sunset League, the Reedsport Braves wrap up regular season play in Gold Beach tonight against the Panthers.

The Far West League District Cross Country meet is set to begin at noon today at Tugman State Park in Lakeside.

And, the Mapleton Sailor Football team picked up a Mountain West League Victory this week without even taking the field…. Their scheduled opponent was Eddyville… they had to cancel due to excessive illnesses.

Heceta Water wants talks to flow again; gas prices inch up, Florence still inexpensive; CL PUD wins Federal Grant; and give blood on Halloween!

10-28-09 7,8,9 AM; Noon; 5,6 PM
RBS

Heceta Water District wants talks to flow again…

With the aim of getting negotiations with the City of Florence back on track, Heceta Water District Commissioners met last night to review their latest proposal for an inter-governmental agreement that would spell out who would provide water service to lands currently in the district… but ultimately destined for annexation into the city.
201 – “It’s time to take some action so… this is very important for this district and this district’s survival. And before we spend these millions of dollars on improvements to the district so it has long term viability we have to ensure the customer base because that is our revenue stream.”

Commission chair Bob Hursh expressed his frustration with the lack of progress over the past two years.
200 – “Every time we thought we got to the finish line something cropped up, something changed, something was added, something was removed.”

Hursh lays much of the blame for that lack of progress on Florence City Manager Bob Willoughby. Hursh felt they had an agreement last spring, but says Willoughby added a requirement at the last minute that the district pay a franchise fee equal to five-percent of water bills in annexed areas. Before that Hursh said he felt they had a deal. But, he says, it’s important to get back on track and they’ll meet with Willoughby next week to discuss that.

The US Department of Energy has awarded a grant of nearly $10-million to Central Lincoln PUD to help expand reliability and flexibility of the power grid. The federal “Smart Grid” funding will help pay for ‘smart meters’ allowing power customers to manage energy use more efficiently. Central Lincoln employees will also be able to electronically monitor lines and equipment and identify potential problems before they become an outage. Plus, if an outage does occur, the ‘smart grid’ technology will allow them to track it down and pinpoint the location much quicker. The grant award is the only one of its kind to an Oregon Utility and will allow the district to double the amount of funding they’ve set aside for their efforts.

The average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline snuck up two cents to $2.60 in Florence this week. But drivers in Florence still pay less on average than anywhere else. According to Triple-A the national average jumped by ten cents this week to $2.68. Oregon’s statewide average went up by two cents and is at $2.73. Portland’s average price, as measured by Triple-A is $2.69 a gallon and in Eugene, it’s $2.76… 16 cents higher than Florence’s average price.

Halloween falls on Saturday this year. That will allow for more activities related to the theme of the day. Probably the most unique offering will be the Lane Memorial Bloodmobile at Three Rivers Casino. Blood donors can contribute a pint between nine and four that day.

TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:

Prep Volleyball:
The Mapleton Sailors downed the Lowell Red Devils in four games last night to advance to the next round of Mountain West League Playoffs. They’ll now go up against the Cougars tomorrow in Crow.

In the Far West League, the Siuslaw Vikings downed the Douglas Trojans in four games last night, Leigh Aurich had 54 assists, Seabre Church 21 kills. Jenna Hanslits also had a dozen kills with a strong serving run of six straight points to finish the fifth and final game. Siuslaw is alone in second place now at 6 – 2. North Bend remains undefeated at 8-0, they beat South Umpqua. Brookings-Harbor falls to third place at 5 – 3 after a loss to Sutherlin.

Pac Ten Football:
Oregon and Southern California meet this weekend to determine the Pac-10 title… maybe. The winner may still have to deal with Arizona as a topsy-turvy season unfolds. The Number 23 Wildcats have joined the 10th ranked Ducks and number Four Trojans in the AP-Top 25. They’re the only three teams that command their own destiny in the conference race.

You have two chances to help out Siuslaw Athletics this week…

For Duck Fans (or Trojans) we have two tickets to the Oregon – USC game at 5:00 Saturday night… they’re very good seats… and they’ll be sold to the highest bidder with proceeds going to the Siuslaw Baseball Program.

For you Beaver Believers we have four tickets to the 1 o’clock game between OSU and UCLA. The highest bidder will get those seats… and the proceeds will go to the Siuslaw Athletic Booster Club. These seats are under cover, 45-yard line on the West side and includes a parking pass at the Goss Stadium parking lot.

Both will benefit athletics at Siuslaw High School. Call 997-9136 to register your bid. All bidding will close at 9:45 AM Friday, we’ll announce the totals on the air.

Scientists crack question of multiple quakes; Flo planners to decide riprap; Port readies for winter; and OHV routes explored

Scientists track down source of earthquake cluster…

A group of previously unknown faults off the Oregon Coast was the source of a swarm of earthquakes last year. Oregon State University Geologist Robert Dziak (ZEE-ack) says the discovery about 140 miles southwest of Newport suggest the Juan de Fuca Plate is still actively converging with North America in the Cascadia Subduction Zone. Scientists don’t know what set the quakes off and Dziak says they’re also not clear if they represent a normal release of stress within the plate or something else. Using a network of microphones, scientists recorded some 1,600 quakes over a two-month period last year. Most were between magnitude 3.0 and 4.0 but a few exceeded 5.0. Dziak says the quakes were centered deep below the ocean floor and few, if any, onshore felt them.

The Florence Planning Commission will review a request by the Oregon Department of Transportation tonight to place riprap around bridge piers to protect against erosion.
215 – “Half of the bridge the city is asked for approval on, the other half Lane County will deal with. This is part of thier $5.2 million rehabilitation that they’re doing on the Siuslaw River Bridge is to put some riprap underneath the bridge.”

Assistant City Manager Jacque Morgan says a similar request has been submitted to Lane County covering the southern approach to the bridge. O-DOT wants to replace rocks that had previously been placed around the piers but have washed away over the years.

Port of Siuslaw workers will begin placing protective log booms around its marinas next week. The barrier logs will help keep floating debris out of the marinas, preventing damage to both the docks and any boats that may be moored. Port of Siuslaw Manager Mark Freeman says despite the booms, crews still spend a considerable amount of time cleaning debris out of the berths. Freeman says boaters can help out by being sure to replace booms when entering or exiting the marinas.

A work group reviewing routes for off-highway users on the Oregon Dunes will take a tour of several different sites on the National Recreation Area next week. Central Coast Ranger Pam Gardner says the group will review existing routes near Winchester Bay on Friday, November Sixth. It’s the second in a series of six meetings held by the group. Earlier this month they met in Florence. Gardner says they’re made up of a wide variety of interests, charged with developing recommendations for the designation of O-H-V routes in upland vegetated areas of the Oregon Dunes.

TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
Prep Volleyball:
The Mapleton Sailors spotted the Lakers of Triangle Lake the first game, but then swept the next three to advance to a Mountain West League playoff match tonight against Lowell. Also on the schedule, Siuslaw Volleyball is on the road to Winston where they’ll take on the Douglas Trojans. The Reedsport Braves are at home against Cascade Christian.
Athlete of the Week:
Mapleton football standout Chad Walker is Coast Radio Sports’ Athlete of the Week. The Sailor standout carried the ball 14 times for 162 yards and two touchdowns in Friday’s Mapleton Victory over Triangle Lake. Walker also caught two passes for 84 yards and accounted for 20 tackles defensively. Four of those tackles were for negative yards, including one sack for a 20 yard loss. Honorable mention goes to Siuslaw Wide Receiver Eric Tipler who caught four passes for 81 yards and one touchdown in the Vikings’ victory over North Bend.

H1N1 vaccine delivery schedule slow; HWD special meeting to address possible agreement with City; Property tax statements in mail; and prep sports.

Lane County Public Health Streamlines Vaccine Distribution..

Vaccination clinics for the general public will be delayed a little longer as public health officials in Lane County take steps to make sure the H1N1 vaccine for swine-origin flu is available for those at highest risk from the disease. Public Health Nursing Supervisor Betsy Meredith says she knows it’s frustrating, but they’re directing available supplies of the vaccine to local obstetricians, gynecologists, pediatricians, schools and other health care partners serving youth. Meredith says studies indicate that the H1N1 flu virus is causing more significant illness in groups that include young people and pregnant women. She says they anticipate the H1N1 flu to continue to circulate in the community for several months and adds that even if you’re not immunized immediately, it’s still important to get a flu shot later as the illness seems to sweep through communities in ‘waves’. In the meantime, she says you can slow the spread of flu by taking simple steps like washing your hands frequently; covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze; avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth; and stay home if you’re sick.

The Heceta Water District board of Commissioners will hold a special meeting tomorrow evening to discuss work on a possible inter-governmental agreement with the city of Florence. District Manager Scott Meyer says the board will not be discussing water rates, nor will they be taking any public comment during the five pm session. The bulk of the meeting will be held in private executive session to review written advice from the district’s attorney on the matter.

More than 172-thousand property tax statements are in the mail to Lane County taxpayers. The first mailings were sent late last week and many property owners should already have them in their mailboxes. Payments are typically due by November 15th, but since that falls on a Sunday there’ll be an extra day. Taxpayers can get a discount if the full or two-thirds payment is submitted with a post mark no later than November 16th. The second payments are due by February 16th, the final installment must be post-marked no later than May 17th.

Recreational mussel harvesting along the entire Oregon Coast was closed last week by a joint announcement of the Oregon Departments of Agriculture and Fish and Wildlife. The north and central portions of the coast were closed earlier due to elevated levels of paralytic shellfish toxins. The latest announcement covers the area from the Coos Bay entrance to the California border. P-S-T does not effect crab and oysters, the agencies say those shellfish are safe to eat as are razor clams.

TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:

Prep Volleyball:
The Siuslaw Vikings went winless in the Marshfield Invitational Saturday in Coos Bay, losing to Hidden Valley and Dallas, then forcing a tie with Myrtle Point. The Reedsport Braves made it to the Quarterfinal where they fell to the Marshfield Pirates.

Prep Football:
The Siuslaw Vikings effectively ended any post-season hopes for the North Bend Bulldogs Friday night in Florence, coming out on top 27-12. Sonny Tupua rushed for 146 yards on 32 carries. John Johnson was 11 of 17 passing for 117 yards and two touchdowns. In other Far West League games, South Umpqua picked up their first league victory over Sutherlin and Brookings-Harbor fell to Douglas. In the Sunset League Reedsport fell to Bandon 26 – 16. And, in the Mountain West… James Moore threw two touchdown passes in the first half and the Mapleton Sailors held on for a 36 – nothing victory over Triangle Lake

College Football:
Then number 12 ranked Oregon cruised to a 43-19 victory over Washington Saturday afternoon in Seattle. They’re now up to number ten in the rankings and remain the only undefeated team in Pac-Ten play. In Los Angeles, the Oregon State Beavers mounted more than one comeback but could never get back on top as the USC Trojans held on for a 42-36 victory.

On The Schedule Tonight:The Mapleton Sailors will face Triangle Lake in a Mountain West League Volleyball playoff at Mohawk High School this evening at five. The winner will take on the Red Devils at Lowell tomorrow night.

Excess salmon headed for Oregon Food Bank; Coast Guard to marshall Vet's Parade; Mapleton Auction returns.

Oregon Food Bank Angling for Leftover Salmon

It’s looking like a good year for Northwest Salmon… at least for hatchery fish. So good in fact, that the Oregon Food Bank Network will benefit from some of the catch. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife sells some Columbia River hatchery fish to a processor in Bellingham, Washington that has a market for fish roe and carcasses… but not for the fillets. So, the processor freezes them and returns them to Oregon for the Food Bank. Mike Moran (muh-RANN) says the fillets will be distributed this spring.
210 -- “We have not seen a substantial amount of fish, in fact, we haven’t seen very much fish at all for the past three or four years coming from Fish and Wildlife because the returns have been so low. But, this year is… things have changed quite a bit.”

Moran, the Food Resource Manager for the Food Bank, calls it a unique partnership between a business, a charitable group and a government agency that ensures no part of the fish goes to waste. He adds that no wild, native salmon are part of the process. They’re sorted out as they head upstream and over Bonneville Dam. Some of the hatchery fillets will eventually wind up at Florence Food Share, but most likely not until March.

Organizers of the Veteran’s Parade in Florence are breaking new ground once again. This time it’s with their first ever Grand Marshall. Actually, it’s plural, members of the US-Coast Guard Siuslaw River Station will be honored during the Saturday, November 7th parade. Entry forms are available online at Florence-Veteran’s-Day-Parade-dot-com.

After a one-year hiatus, a popular Mapleton event is back on track. The doors open tomorrow at four PM at the Mapleton Lion’s Clubhouse for the Mapleton Country Auction. One new feature this year will be the ‘Artists Row’. Eight different local artists will demonstrate their craft during the silent auction from four to 5:30. A live auction gets underway immediately following that. All proceeds benefit youth scholarships, school programs and other community needs.

Another major earthquake rolled across the ocean floor early this morning. According to the U-S-G-S a 4.1 magnitude quake was recorded 211 miles west of Coos Bay at 1:40 this morning. The quake did not produce a tsunami.

TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
Prep Volleyball:
The Mapleton Sailors will face Triangle Lake Monday in a Mountain West League playoff game. That’s after the Sailors fell last night to the McKenzie Eagles in three games. Mapleton and T-Lake will face off at Mohawk High School at 5:00… immediately following that match will be a tie-breaker between McKenzie and Crow. A victory for the Sailors on Monday would put them in another playoff match Tuesday against either Alsea or Lowell.

In the Sunset League last night, the Bandon Tigers blocked any chance of the Reedsport Braves making the playoffs, downing Reedsport in five games. The Braves will be at the Marshfield Invitational this weekend… along with the Siuslaw Vikings.

Also on the schedule… Prep Football tonight. Siuslaw, one-and-one in the Far West League will host the oh-and-two North Bend Bulldogs. The pregame show is set for 6:45 on KCST. The Reedsport Braves will be in Medford against Cascade Christian. Mapleton heads up Highway 36 to Triangle Lake… All games kick off at seven.

On the college gridiron: The Oregon Ducks are back in action after a weekend off. They’ll be in Seattle against the Washington Huskies at 12:30 tomorrow… airtime on KCST is set for 11:30. Meanwhile, the Beavers, also following a weekend off, have headed the other direction. They’ll be in Los Angeles where they’ll take on the USC Trojans at five… airtime on KCFM will be at four.

Lights on for Kids this evening; LC Commission considering social hosting ordinance; DC Planners to continue septic hearing

Lights on For Kids…

Recent studies have shown that the most dangerous time for kids is the stretch between the final bell of the school day and dinner time. That’s when there’s often the least supervision. Kids are out of school, but parents or guardians are still at work. But, a local after school program aims to change that here in Florence.
205 – “There’s no reason why learning should stop after three pm, particularly if the alternative is for unsupervised time in front of the television or the computer.”

Interim Director Jerry Matheny with the Boys and Girls Club of Western Lane County says they’ll be part of a nationwide program tonight called “Lights On After School”.
206 – “There’s a series of rallies that are going to be happening across the nation. And what we’re using this for is simply a platform to educate the public about the after school programs that not only the Boys and Girls Club has, but the partnership that we joined with the Siuslaw School District into putting on the after school programs at the school.”

The local programs are funded through a federal grant that pays the club to keep doors open at after-school centers in the Elementary, Middle School and High School. Tonight’s rally for kids will be at the Boys and Girls Club Teen Center on 15th Street between 6 and 7:30.

A new ordinance being considered by Lane County Commissioners would impose stiff financial penalties on anyone hosting an under-age party involving alcohol. The Board heard from several residents over the past few weeks who have been affected by under-age parties. Many of the parties have been hosted or supported by adults. If approved, a fine of up to $1000 could be imposed on the host, plus they could be charged for the actual cost of law enforcement, fire and other emergency responders. Public hearings will be scheduled to receive more community input.

More community input is the goal this evening with the Dunes City Planning Commission continues hearing on proposed changes to an ordinance that would require regular maintenance and inspection of septic systems. The initial hearing was September 24th. Dunes City Recorder Amy Graham said an incorrect notice was published saying the continuation was set for next week. Under the proposed changes property owners that do not comply could be charged up to $250 per day. That hearing continues tonight at Dunes City Hall at six pm.

The former director of Siuslaw Outreach Services was not formally indicted on theft charges this week as previously announced by the Lane County District Attorney’s office. But Ethel Bassett was arraigned on four counts of Theft in the first degree alleging she stole more than $56-thousand from a court ordered abuse program. Chief Deputy District Attorney Patricia Perlow also said no plea was entered in Bassett’s case. Perlow said Bassett is scheduled to appear in court November 25th.

TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:

Prep Volleyball:
The Mapleton Sailors clinched a spot in the Mountain West League Playoffs Tuesday night with a victory over Triangle Lake. They can improve their position with a victory tonight when they travel to McKenzie. A win would put them on the road Tuesday against either Alsea or Lowell. A loss will put them in a tie-breaker Monday against Triangle Lake.

Also on the volleyball court tonight, the Reedsport Braves for Sunset League action against the Tigers in Bandon.

Arraigned, not indicted. Corrections to earlier SOS Theft case

The former director of Siuslaw Outreach Services was not indicted by a Lane County Grand Jury as reported earlier today. However 61-year old Ethel Bassett of Walton was arraigned on four counts of Theft I under information provided by the Lane County District Attorney's office. Bassett's employment with SOS was terminated in November of 2008 and shortly after that an investigation into the disappearance of funds from a court ordered abuse program was begun by Florence Police and the Oregon Department of Justice.

The complete revised press release is shown below:




Florence Police Department
PRESS RELEASE
Contact: Sarah Huff 997-3515
PIO-Florence Police Department
Date: October 20, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CORRECTION TO PRESS RELEASE
Regarding Former SOS Executive Director Charged in Theft of Funds

On November 13, 2008 Siuslaw Outreach Services Interim Executive Director Donna Boggiano-Chmelicek, along with SOS Domestic Violence Advocate Tony Bour, reported to the Florence Police Department that money appeared to be missing over a period of approximately 4 years.

Detective John Brejska initiated the criminal investigation requesting the assistance of Oregon Department of Justice Charitable Audit Coordinator Douglas Pearson. The Lane County District Attorney’s Office filed an information alleging four felony counts of theft of over $16,000 by Ms. Bassett and not that a Lane County Grand Jury returned an indictment for four counts of Theft 1, felonies, against former Siuslaw Outreach Services Executive Director Ethel G. Basset.

Bassett, 61 years, a resident of Walton, Oregon, appeared in Lane County Circuit Court in Eugene today and was arraigned on the information, not indictment. No plea was entered. Her next court appearance is scheduled for November 25, 2009.

During the investigation, DOJ Investigator Pearson said there was a substantial amount of money missing from the Batterer’s Intervention Program. This program is where the courts would order domestic violence offenders to attend classes to prevent the recurrence of such violence. The Oregon Department of Justice commonly assists in investigations in these types of cases.

Siuslaw Outreach Services Board President Alex Koslov stated, “Since the removal of Ethel Bassett as the Executive Director, Siuslaw Outreach Services has continued to serve the community without reducing any services to the community and increased most services.”

Chief Maurice Sanders of the Florence Police Department said, “The advocacy services provided by SOS continue to be critical for the greater Florence community to help reduce incidents of domestic violence and to assist victims during their time need.”

The ARREST WARRANT issued was under Case #200922596/09-3261 and Florence Police Case File 08-4368.

For further information, please contact Det. John Brejska at the Florence Police Department at 541-997-3515. For information regarding the correction to the Press Release please contact Chief Deputy District Attorney Patricia Perlow at the Lane County District Attorney’s Office at 541 682-4261

City and HWD at impasse; Former SOS director indicted; gas prices drop locally; and the ocean floor rocks.

Water District and City at Impasse

Ongoing talks between the City of Florence and the Heceta Water District about who will provide water service to property that is annexed into the City appear to be at an end.
200 – “We’ve been trying since I got here three years ago to negotiate that IGA and we have not had much luck. And in fact, last week, apparently the Heceta Water District Board decided to start over for, I think now, the second or third time, where they’re going to present a new agreement.”

Florence City Manager Bob Willoughby said more than two years ago the city council adopted a policy of not withdrawing property from the water district as it’s annexed into the city.
202 -- "And that policy of not withdrawing not only assumed that we would have an IGA but it also assumed that the service provided by the water district would be an urban level of service that would provide the rougly equivalent water service for the roughly equivalent price and so those issues are up in the air."

Efforts to draft an ‘intergovernmental agreement’ that was acceptable to both sides stalled several months ago. To complicate matters, a recent rate hike by the water district would put the city in the position of having residents in newly annexed areas paying roughly twice as much for water as existing residents.
201 -- "And that to me indicates that we're not going to agree on an IGA any time soon and perhaps we need to rethink those policies and determine whether, when we annex property, we ought to provide the service or the water district."

The Florence City Council agreed. They directed Willoughby this week to begin drawing up draft policies for their consideration on formally withdrawing annexed properties from the district.

The former director of Siuslaw Outreach Services was arraigned yesterday in Lane County Circuit Court on four separate charges of Theft I. 61-year old Ethel Bassett entered pleas of ‘not-guilty’ on all four charges. Bassett’s employment with the Florence non-profit agency was terminated 11-months ago. Immediately following that, the interim director contacted Florence Police with allegations of missing money over a four-year period. Detective John Brejska initiated a criminal investigation with the assistance of the Oregon Department of Justice. An audit of the group’s books discovered a – quote – “substantial amount of money” missing from a fund for a court ordered abuse program. SOS board member Alex Koslov said they have continued to be able to provide support to the community in the past year and, in many cases, he added, they’ve been able to increase them.

The ocean floor off the Southern Oregon coast did a little rocking early this morning. The U.S. Geologic Siurvey reported a 4.0 magnitude quake about 225 miles west of Bandon shortly after two AM.

The average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline fell by four cents this week in Florence to $2.58. Oregon’s statewide average fell by two cents and remains above $2.70. In Eugene, the average price as measured by Triple-A of Oregon is down about a cent-and-a-half to $2.74, Triple-A spokesperson Marie Dodds says while west coast prices continue to drop, prices nationwide have surged… the national average went up by ten cents this past week to $2.58… matching Florence’s average.

TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:

Prep Volleyball:
The Siuslaw Vikings remain tied for second place in the Far West League after a four game victory last night at home over the Sutherlin Bulldogs. The Vikings won the fourth and deciding game 25-4. Seabre Church had 21 kills in the match to lead the way. Siuslaw, at 5-2 is tied with Brookings… the Bruins defeated South Umpqua last night in three… North Bend remains atop the standings, undefeated in league play at 7-0, they beat Douglas in three last night.

In the Sunset League, Coquille beat Reedsport last night 3-1. And in the Mountain West, the Sailors got by the Lakers in three games. Andrea Leclaire had 12 assists for Mapleton.

College Baseball:
The recruiting classes for both Oregon and Oregon State baseball have been heralded by Baseball Magazine. Annual rankings of incoming recruits were released yesterday with OSU coming in the 22nd best and Oregon is 24th. Oregon State welcomed 20 newcomers to fall camp. Oregon is beginning its second baseball season after a 28-year hiatus.

Local firefighters to reach new heights; coffee with the chief; new ped crossing nearing completion; and blue green algae...

Fire Department reaching new heights…

A new apparatus has arrived for fire fighters in the local area. It won’t be fully functional for another 30-days, but when it is, Siuslaw Valley Fire and Rescue will be able to reach higher than ever before. The agency recently took delivery on a new Pierce Ladder Truck. It boasts a 75-foot ladder with a multi-use nozzle at the tip. The fire district paid half of the $632-thousand price tag out of cash reserves set aside for equipment replacement. The other half is being financed through Siuslaw Bank with debt payments being paid out of normal operating funds. Senior Captain Harry Moore said the number of tasks that can be performed by the new ladder truck are many. He said that it would make efforts more efficient as well as add to fire fighter safety. The department is currently equipping it with a communications system and will be installing tools and other accessories needed to make it functional. Moore said it may be operational by the end of this month, but added that it would most likely be the middle of November before it’s ready to make its first emergency response.

Florence Police Chief Maury Sanders wants to hear from residents both in and outside the city tomorrow morning. Sanders will host another of his regular series entitled “Coffee with the Chief”. His guest will be West Lane Resident Sheriff’s Deputy Kerrie Boggs. Sanders says Boggs will be on hand to answer questions and hear comments about law enforcement outside the city. The session is from eight to 9:30 tomorrow morning at Florence Municipal Airport.

A new pedestrian crossing on Highway 101 at 30th street is nearing completion and when it’s operational it will be the second of its kind in Oregon. Pedestrians will activate flashing yellow lights in the middle of the highway when they want to cross, alerting motorists to their presence. If they’re not able to cross in the allotted time, there’s another button on a refuge island in the middle. The design is similar to one that has seen success near Churchill High School in West Eugene.

Scientists say the frequency and intensity of toxic blue-green algae outbreaks are increasing. In all, there were 30 such events reported in Oregon this past summer. Health advisories at five different locations are still in effect. The worst outbreak came on a tributary of the Umpqua River near Elkton. That’s where four dogs died after playing in the water of Elk Creek in August. An autopsy on one of the dogs by Oregon State University scientists confirmed that it was poisoned by the toxic algae. State officials believe increased monitoring, public awareness and reporting are primarily responsible for the spike in cases, but acknowledge the scope of the problem is unclear.


TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:

Athlete of the Week:
Siuslaw Volleyball standout Seabre Church is Coast Radio Sports’ Athlete of the Week. The Viking’s senior outside hitter connected on 15 kills in Siuslaw's 3-nothing Far West League win over South Umpqua last week, leaving the Vikings in a tie for second place in league play as they enter the second half of the season. Honorable Mention goes to Viking Sophomore Katie Catalfamo (kuh-TOFF-uh-MO) who was a perfect 17-of-17 from the service line with four aces in the same match, also adding four kills of her own from the net.

On The Schedule:
It’s the final home match of the season for Siuslaw Volleyball as they host the Sutherlin Bulldogs. In the Sunset Conference the Reedsport Braves will host the Coquille Red Devils… while Mountain West League action has the Mapleton Sailors hosting the Lakers of Triangle Lake in their final home match of the Mountain West League regular schedule.

11 year sentence handed out in domestic violence case; HWD won't revisit rates; Cowan seeking 3rd term; and Vet's Parade 11/7

Florence man gets nearly 11 years for domestic assault

A plea agreement in a Florence domestic assault case will send one man to prison for ten years and ten months, while his identical twin brother received three years probation. The sentences were handed out last week. They stemmed from a July incident in which a Florence woman was assaulted and her children threatened.
200 – “There was one brother who was doing the physical actions, who was actually doing the assaulting. The other brother stood by, which is morally disturbing but may not necessarily be illegal. What he did was, when the mom yelled for help, told the kids to go get help, he blocked the door. And so he aided and abetted the assault which I think is very disturbing.”

Prosecutor Jay McAlpin says 30-year old Timothy Franzoni received the harsher sentence after pleading guilty to assaulting his domestic partner, her 12-year old daughter, and the woman’s 11-year old developmentally delayed son. Michael Franzoni will face probation after pleading guilty to fourth-degree assault and coercion.

Heceta Water District Commission Chair Bob Hursh says they will not revisit water rates before next spring. That’s despite a public outcry against the rates that took effect in July but didn’t show up on bills until last month. The Heceta Water District underwent an extensive rate survey last year, along with an evaluation of the condition of the district’s treatment and distribution system. Hursh said the new rates, which more than doubled in some cases, are structured to help provide revenues to pay for improvements as well as encourage conservation.

Newport Democrat Jean Cowan announced last week that she would seek her third term to the Oregon House of Representatives. Cowan recently earned a position on the Joint Committee on Ways and Means, the state’s budget-writing committee. The former Lincoln County Commissioner and Mayor of Elgin, Oregon says ocean policy and protecting services for seniors, people with disabilities and veterans remain as her top priorities. House District 10 covers rural areas of Western Lane County, Lincoln County and portions of rural Polk and Yamhill counties.

This year’s annual Veteran’s Day Parade in Florence will be a few days early. Organizers of the event say it will be held on Saturday, November 7th instead of the traditional November 11th. The hope, says parade spokesperson Wayne Sharpe, is that more people will be able to participate on a Saturday, rather than on a weekday. The parade committee is encouraging any organization, including businesses, church groups and veterans groups, to enter a float. They are asking that all entries focus on veteran’s or patriotic themes.

TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:

Prep Football:
The Douglas Trojans ran away from the Siuslaw Vikings in the second half Friday night, cruising to a 23-7 Far West League football victory in Florence. In other Far West League Results, the Sutherlin Bulldogs are undefeated in league play after they downed a lackluster North Bend team 28-6. Brookings-Harbor beat South Umpqua 41-21.

In the Sunset League, Reedsport remains winless in league play, they lost 34-8 to Coquille.

In the Mountain West, Mapleton drew even in league play. They’re now two-and-two after a 48-32 victory over Crow at home Friday night.

Cross Country:
Several Siuslaw Vikings were invited to the Concordia-Puma Cross Country Classic in Portland Saturday. Joe Campbell and Jacob Berkner were 27th and 28th in the Men’s Elite class, each with identical times of 16:33. In the Women’s Elite Raelyn Robinson was 20th at 19:38; Samantha Pummer 24th at 19:42.

Electricity rates going up; Interior Secretary says he'll fast-track logging; more seasonal flu vaccine on way; and heavy rains a'comin'.

Electricity Rates Going Up…

If you heat your home with electricity, you’ll be paying more for that along with the rest of your electricity this winter. A rate increase by Central Lincoln PUD will begin showing up on bills in November. PUD Spokesperson Chris Chandler says it’s in response to an increase in wholesale rates taken by Bonneville Power Administration.
210 – “That’s going to pay for more salmon and steelhead support, system maintenance and new transmission lines, which we’ve been hearing are so important for the grid nationally, and, also for renewable energy projects such as wind projects. So, all those costs add up in a massive way and so that’s why Bonneville has raised our rates 7 percent.”

Not all of the seven percent increase will be passed directly to residential customers. There will be a one-dollar bump in the basic monthly charge… from $15 to $16… and the rate for consumption will go up by 4.6%.
211 – “Someone receives a bill on average of about a hundred dollars a month it’ll probably be about $106 with the increase.”

Central Lincoln PUD buys all of its power from Bonneville and Chandler says it’s still the least expensive in the country.

Interior Secretary Ken Salazar says it’s a ‘new era’ of cooperation when it comes to federal timber sales. Salazar announced plans this week to get more timber into western Oregon mills in the coming year. He says it can be done without sidestepping environmental laws… and without challenges from the environmental community.
212 – “We’re in this for the long haul, and we’re gonna get it done to achieve both the economic interests so important to Western Oregon; but also to make sure that we are doing what we have to do to restore the ecosystem and to comply with the environmental laws.”

The B-L-M and Federal Fish and Wildlife Service have teams working to ‘fast-track’ 62 new timber sales that create hundreds of jobs. (thanks to Oregon News Service for audio)

Demand for the regular, seasonal flu vaccine has been higher than anticipated, prompting some outlets to curtail, or even cancel vaccine clinics outright. But that is expected to change. Additional seasonal vaccine is on the way and should arrive by late November. So far only about a quarter of the 1.4-million doses of seasonal flu vaccine headed for Oregon have been distributed. Dr. Paul Cieslak (SEE-zlak), immunization director for the Oregon Public Health Division, says normally people don’t think about getting flu shots until later in the season but all the attention on H1N1 and fears of widespread flu this year has increased early demand.

The National Weather Service is saying the heaviest rains of the season so far are expected early this weekend. The bulk of the rain, up to two to four inches in higher altitudes, could begin falling late this afternoon continuing through midday tomorrow. A stalled cold front is expected to tap into tropical, moisture laden air.

TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:

Running:
A new ‘fun run’ and 5-K will run on Halloween to raise money for athletics at Siuslaw High and Middle Schools. The “Move Your Bones” run will begin and end at the Florence Municipal Airport. The kids fun-run, with every kid under age six getting a treat, starts at nine, the 5k is set for 9:30. Registration forms for the October 31st race are available online at www.kcst.com. They can be returned, with payment, to Coastal Fitness, On Your Feet, or Coast Insurance.

Prep Volleyball:
In the Sunset League last night, the Reedsport Braves defeated the Glide Wildcats in five games.

On the Schedule…
Prep football: The Siuslaw Vikings are at home for Far West League Football against the number six ranked Douglas Trojans. That game will air on Coast Radio Sports beginning at 6:45. In the Sunset League, the Reedsport Braves will be in Coquille. And in the Mountain West the Mapleton Sailors will host the Crow Cougars. All games kick off at seven.

Market Values down, but tax rates up; School bus slides off road; Prepare your pantry for emergencies; and who'll stop the rain?

Values down… tax rates up…

Property tax statements will be mailed out late next week and when they arrive you’ll no doubt notice the market value of your property is probably less than it was last year. Lane County Assessor Annette Spickard says that’s because of the economy. Despite that drop, you’ll also no doubt notice that the bottom line is more, along with the assessed value. That’s due to two reasons. First, the assessed valuation of all property increases by three-percent each year. Second, voters approved special operating and bond levies in several areas throughout the county. In the Siuslaw School District, a five-year special operating levy means an additional 75-cents per thousand dollars of assessed valuation says Spickard. She says, on average, taxpayers will see a tax increase of just under ten percent on this year’s tax statement. The first payments are due November 16th.

Siuslaw School Superintendent Jeff Davis said they “dodged a bullet” yesterday morning when a school bus slid off Rhododendron Drive slightly injuring one student and the driver. Davis said the student suffered a cut inside her mouth from being bounced around and the driver, Chuck Gunther, bumped his head. Gunther told officials that he slid on a heavy concentration of pine needles that were left over from yesterday’s stormy weather. The 16-passenger bus didn’t collide with anything and only sustained minor damage.

Federal guidelines say residents should be prepared to feed themselves for at least a month in the event of a large scale disaster. That means many people need to make adjustments to the way they stock their pantry at home. It’s not that difficult says Jean Busby. She’s a community education outreach coordinator for Siuslaw Valley Fire and Rescue. Busby will be leading a class this Saturday from two to four pm at the main fire station on how to create a flexible short and long term food plan in the event of emergency. There’s no cost to attend.

The National Weather Service is saying to prepare for some heavy precipitation this weekend. An unusually wet early season storm system will dump as many as five inches of rain on the coast range between late tomorrow and Saturday afternoon. Forecasters say the combination of a lot of warm air, along with heavy concentrations of moisture have created the perfect combination. They don’t expect any major flooding, but they say to be aware of local accumulations.

TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:

Oregon quarterback Jeremiah Masoli is practicing again, but not in full pads. Masoli injured his right knee in Oregon’s 52-6 victory over Washington State October 3rd. He practiced last week, but did not play against UCLA. The Ducks have this weekend off. It’s too soon to tell if Masoli will be healthy enough for an October 24th matchup against Washington.

The Oregon State Beavers also have this weekend off; they’re also dealing with an injured quarterback. Lyle Moevao (moy-VOW) had rotator cuff surgery in the off-season and has seen limited action so far. Oregon State is exploring the possibility of asking the NCAA to grant another year of eligibility to the fifth-year senior because of a medical hardship. Coach Mike Riley said it would be a – quote – “longshot at best”. OSU attempted the same approach with another player a few years ago to no avail.

Coming up on the schedule today… Sunset League Volleyball is on the court in Glide for the Reedsport Braves.

HWD Rates draw fire; storm causes minor damage - gas 2.62 on average - friday furlough day - and Labor Commissioner in Florence

Water Rate Increases Draw Fire…

The Heceta Water District Commission was prepared last night to get an earful, and they did.
204 – “Two-and-a-half times you raised the water rate. It’s the equivalent to taking a gallon of gasoline at 2.60 a gallon and raising it to 6.44 a gallon overnight.”

That’s Mike Hulsey (HULL-zee), the owner of Buck Lake Trailer Park. He and about two-dozen others were at the Water Commission’s meeting to complain about a rate increase that took effect in July. Because of the bi-monthly billing cycle, the full effects of that increase weren’t readily noticeable until this month.
205 – “You’re jeopardizing future development by what you’ve done here and percentage wise you’ve increased the water rate 144%.”

Hulsey told commissioners that all of his tenants, like so many other residents of Heceta Water District, are seniors on fixed incomes. He also said he wouldn’t be satisfied until rates came down.
206 – “I’m going to do whatever I can to stop this rate increase or roll it back.”

District manager Scott Meyer defended the increases, saying they were needed to help pay for several upcoming capital projects. Meyer also said the rate structure is set up to encourage conservation.

The season’s first winter storm moved through the area early this morning, leaving scattered debris and power outages in its wake. A high wind of 54 miles an hour was recorded at Southwest Oregon Regional Airport in North Bend; 58 miles an hour at Sea Lion Caves. No major damage was reported.

Because of budget reductions taken by the latest legislative session, most state offices will be closed this Friday. It’s the first of ten ‘unpaid furlough’ days that will be taken by most state employees. Essential services, such as the Oregon State Police and corrections will be unaffected, but 26,500 state employees will have the day off without pay saving an estimated $2-million. The shutdown means offices offering employment services, motor vehicles licensing and senior services won’t be available.

Oregon’s Labor Commissioner, Brad Avakian, will be in Florence tomorrow for two appearances. He’s in charge of the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries and will speak about changes brought about by the 2009 Legislature that will have an impact on both employers and employees. Avakian will address the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce at noon tomorrow, as well as on KCST’s Community Forum in the afternoon.

Gas prices continue to dip… the average price for a gallon of regular unleaded dropped by three cents in Florence this week to $2.62. The statewide average price as measured by Triple-A of Oregon is down four cents to $2.73. The average price in Eugene is $2.76; in Portland it’s $2.69 a gallon. Despite the drop in prices, Oregon’s average remains the fifth highest in the nation.

TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:

Prep Volleyball:
The Siuslaw Vikings swept the South Umpqua Lancers in three games last night in Florence, 25-20; 25-15; and 25-20 to remain in a tie with Brookings-Harbor for second place in the Far West League. Coach Amy Peterson said it was a ‘well played match’. Seabre Church had 15 kills and Leigh Aurich had 34 assists. Katie Catalfamo was a perfect 17-of-17 from the service line with four aces, and added Peterson, had two great service runs, both at key times in the match. The Vikings have a week off now and will host winless Sutherlin next Tuesday.

On the schedule… Mapleton will be on the road for Mountain West League Volleyball against the Cougars in Crow.

Third candidate enters commission race; Habitat proposal before planning commission tonight; HWD to review applications; and it's ok to razor clam

Eugene Man to Declare Candidacy

For the third time in as many weeks there’s been another entry into the race for the West Lane County Commission seat. And, for the third time, it’s someone with a connection to Lane Community College. This time it’s Tony McCown, a sitting member of the college’s board of directors.
200 – “I think this county’s been mired in kind of a ‘left right’ debate for so long that we really haven’t made any forward progress.”

McCown will make his formal announcement this afternoon in Eugene. A marketing and outreach consultant with a newly formed company in Eugene, he’s also pursuing his Master’s Degree. He says his perspective and experience will help the commission.
202 – “We can get mired in the ‘left right’ debate and there’s no progress. I think when we start to focus on solutions then we start to see progress.”

McCown doesn’t call himself a centrist…
201 – “I don’t know if I really fall somewhere in the middle there so much as I fall forward and that’s kind of my goal in life.”

He joins two other candidates with a tie to the college. Jay Bozievich is a former member of the LCC Board and Anselmo Villanueva is professor at Lane. All three are seeking the position currently held by Bill Fleenor who initially said he would not run again but appears to have left that door open for now.

Florence Planning Commissioners will review preliminary plans tonight for a 20-unit housing development submitted by Florence Habitat for Humanity. There are actually three decisions in all. Habitat wants to locate their next batch of homes on the current Senior Center site on 15th street once the new center is completed. They’re seeking conceptual approval for the entire project, plus tentative approval of the subdivision that will accommodate the first ten homes. Because the property is zoned for ‘multi-family residential’ the planning commission must also grant approval for the single family homes. The Florence Planning Commission meets at seven pm at city hall this evening.

Five hopefuls have submitted their names to be considered for an opening on the Heceta Water District Board of Commissioners. Lea Patten, after serving a brief period on the panel has submitted her resignation. Chuck Gesik, Gayle Montgomery, Frank Nulty, Charlotte Ryner and Wendy Rohner have all submitted letters of interest. Rohner served on the panel two years ago. The remaining commissioners will review the list during today’s meeting and possibly make a selection. They meet at the water district offices north of Florence at five pm.

Oregon officials have reopened Pacific coastal beaches for recreational razor clamming from the south jetty of Yaquina Bay to the California border. The Oregon Department of Agriculture has also approved the recreational harvesting of mussels from Bastendorf Beach in Coos County to the California border. Officials say levels of paralytic shellfish poison have dropped.

TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:

Athlete of the Week:
Siuslaw Football standout Sonny Tupua is Coast Radio Sports’ Athlete of the Week. The Viking sophomore carried the ball 27 times for 123 yards and three touchdowns in Siuslaw’s Far West League victory over South Umpqua. Tupua has carried the ball 153 times for 846 yards and nine touchdowns in the first five games of the season….Honorable Mention is given to Viking Cross Country standout Linda Paredes who pegged a personal best of 16:49 at the Paul Marriman Invitational in Philomath, finishing fifth place overall.

Prep Volleyball:
Lindsey Logan had eight kills and Amber Harris had five aces as the Mapleton Sailors eased to a three game victory over Oak Hill in a Mountain West League match yesterday. Coming up on the schedule tonight… Siuslaw will be at home against South Umpqua in a Far West League matchup… Reedsport will host Rogue River in the Sunset.

Heceta water rate increase stirs residents; Sporthaven in Brookings sweeps chowder cookoff; H1N1 vaccine arrives - Crabbers seeking derelict pots

Water Rate Increases stir residents…

Dozens of residents in the Heceta Water District are upset about increases in water rates enacted earlier this summer. District Commissioners approved the rate hike that nearly doubled the base rate in May. It took effect in July. But, because bills are sent out every other month, the full impact wasn’t felt by residents until bills were sent out last week. One reported bill was near $700 and others were in the three-to-four-hundred range. One compounding factor appears to be the ‘tiered’ rate system that ratchets up the rate based on consumption. Prior to the rate increase last spring, district manager Scott Meyer said rates had been held low for several years as the district spent down cash reserves. Meyer also noted that the aging 30-year old distribution system is going to need upgrading in the near future. The Heceta Water District Board of Commissioners meets tomorrow afternoon in district offices at five pm.


Florence chose a chowder champion Saturday afternoon…
204 – “The winning chowder scored a 127 out of a possible 150. and was the winner hands down above any of the other five contestants.”

Cookoff spokesperson Cindy Wobbe said Sporthaven Marina Bar and Grill from Brookings also won the ‘People’s Choice’ tasting at this weekend’s Chowder Blues and Brews Festival. Sporthaven earned $1000 for winning the professional chowder tasting. Waterfront Tavern from Reedsport was second in the people’s choice, Tavolo Restaurant from Sandpines Golf in Florence was third.

Limited amounts of the H1N1 flu vaccine are arriving in Lane and Douglas Counties with the first batch being set to private health care providers that serve initial priority groups. Marilyn Carter with Douglas County Public Health says shipments have been small so far. The second batch is due this week and will also be directed towards high priority groups that include health care workers and pregnant women

A handful of boats in Oregon's crabbing fleet are returning to sea in search of derelict pots and buoys left behind by commercial crabbers. Fishermen in Reedsport last week focused their attention on crab gear trapped near shorelines or otherwise forgotten at sea during the Dec. 1 to Aug. 14 season. Oregon Dungeness Crab Commission Executive Director Nick Furman says it's the fleet's responsibility to try to retrieve the old gear.

Taking a look at Coast Radio Sports…
Siuslaw Cross Country dominated the Paul Marriman Invitational in Philomath on Saturday afternoon, sweeping both boys and girls team competitions. Linda Paredes posted a personal best time of 19:49 and was the first Viking girl across the line in fifth place. She was followed quickly by Samantha Pummer and Raeyln Robinson in sixth and seventh. Two more Vikings were in the top 20. For the Boys, Joe Campbell was second overall in 16:31. Jacob Berkner was third; Brad Finnell (fih-NELL) was sixth and Brad Greenburg was seventh. Will Fandrey was 18th overall.

The Oregon Ducks scored three times in the first four minutes of the second half to break things open and go on to a 24-10 victory over the UCLA Bruins Saturday afternoon at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. Kenjon Barner returned the second half opening kickoff 100 yards for a touchdown, he was followed 13-seconds later by Talmadge Jackson who picked off a pass and ran it back 32 yards for a score.

In Corvallis, Jacquizz Rodgers had three touchdowns and 120 yards rushing midway through the second quarter as Oregon State cruised to a 38-28 victory over the Stanford Cardinal. Rodgers ended the day with 271 ‘all-purpose’ yards and four touchdowns, tying an OSU record.

Both Oregon and Oregon State have this week off… The Ducks will be back in action October 24th in Seattle against the Huskies… the Beavers will be in Los Angeles against USC.

Sports Haven Marina in Harbor sweeps Florence Chowder Cookoff

The Sports Haven Marina out of Harbor, Oregon swept both halves of the Oregon Coast Chowder Cookoff earlier today at the Florence Chowder Blues and Brews Festival. Chef Mike Ramsey's recipe first won the professional judging, scoring 127 out of a possible 150 points. A full 20 points better than the nearest competitor. Then, to cap the day, Ramsey's chowder won the 'People's Choice' award. More than 750 people tasted in the 'People's Choice during the afternoon session. The Waterfront Tavern in Reedsport and Tavolo Restuarant from Florence were second and third in the PC respectively. Also entered were chowders from the Hop Valley Brew House in Springfield, McKenzie on the Green in Reedsport and Original Crab and Shrimp from Astoria.

Fleenor leaves it up to constituents; North Bend and Coquille Tribe disagree; Siuslaw Forensics in action; and The Kush Band @ CBB

Fleenor wants constituents to decide…

He says he hasn’t made up his mind, but it appears West Lane Commissioner Bill Fleenor is considering a run for reelection. If he does decide to seek another four years it will be on his terms.
215 – “Obviously I don’t want to run a race that I’m going to lose just right out because I don’t have sufficient public support.”

Because he wants to focus on his work as a Lane County Commissioner, Fleenor says he won’t have a lot of time to devote to campaigning.
216 – “I need a head count. Show me the money. But more importantly show me the votes. Is there enough people out there, is there sufficient people out there to lift me back up.”

Another deterrent is the expense. Ten years ago it was expected a county commission race would cost about $30-thousand. Three years ago Fleenor and his incumbent opponent, Anna Morrison, spent a combined quarter of a million dollars. Then last year, when Rob Handy ousted incumbent Bobby Greene in the North Eugene District the total tab came to more than $600-thousand.
217 – “A grass roots effort, to me, will provide me with the independence and the ability to represent the citizens of Lane County in a much better way than if I have to go out and essentially sell my soul.”

Fleenor says he doesn’t want to be a slave to fund-raising… and potential donors… He’ll leave it up to constituents to decide whether or not he runs. There are already two candidates in the mix. Jay Bozievich and Anselmo Villanueva. The filing deadline is still a long way off… March 9th of next year.

A judge has been asked to release the City of North Bend from its obligation to provide sewer, fire and police services to the Mill Casino. Attorneys for the city filed a motion in a Coos County Courtroom this week that also included a demand for $141-thousand in past due payments owed by the Coquille Indian Tribe. Tribal attorneys responded by seeking to move the case to a federal court. The tribes have been seeking to renegotiate the contract for public services and say they have set aside the past-due quarterly payments until they can have them lowered.

Debates on a variety of issues ranging from a teacher’s right to wear religious clothing in the classroom to the reduction of the probationary period for young drivers from six to three months were conducted at a Student Congress held at South Albany High School Tuesday afternoon. The Siuslaw Forensics team, supervised by Lance Haberly was led by returning lettermen Wyatt Alletson, Tyler Garcia and Omar Alaniz. Haberly says the squad is back in action today at the South Coast Invitational at Marshfield High School.

The doors open at five… and the first band starts playing at six… this year’s opening act for the Chowder Blues and Brews will be a homecoming.
218 – “We’re loving to be back, we missed being here last year, they tried to change things up a little bit and, we’d been there previously nine years.”

The Kush Band will make their tenth appearance at Florence’s Fall Festival and Marc Barnum says their strength comes from closeness.
219 – “We’ve been playing together for about 25 years and with various different lineups.”

The core group… Barnum, Frank “Harpo” Welles and Sunny Sundstrom have been together the entire time. But it’s not only their closeness, but that of the entire group that’s been a hallmark of their music.
220 – “We’re a very close group of guys. We’re all… you know we’re very good friends first and we have a ball supporting each other and you know, we can, we’re almost reading each others minds we’ve played so much together and we have a really good time.”

The Kush Band will be followed tonight by Locust Street Tax. Two more local bands will play Saturday, First Class and Paradigm; followed by the David Samuel Project, the Sassparilla Jug Band and the closing act… the Ty Curtis Band.

TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:

Prep Football:
Viking running back Sonny Tupua carried the ball 27 times for 120 yards and three touchdowns last night as the Siuslaw Vikings downed the South Umpqua Lancers 27-13 in both teams’ Far West League openers last night. John Johnson was five-for-eight passing for 48 yards and one touchdown. In other Far West League Action, Sutherlin picked up their first win of the season, 35 – 14 over Brookings-Harbor. The two top ranked teams in the league, North Bend and Douglas, meet tonight in Winston.

In the Sunset League, the Glide Wildcats came out on top against the Reedsport Braves, 26 – 12. Mapleton fell to Lowell, 66 – 20 in a Mountain West League matchup.

On the Schedule…
Viking Cross Country is on the course tomorrow in Philomath for the Paul Marriman Invitational. In the Pac-Ten… Oregon is in the Rose Bowl tomorrow against UCLA for a 12:30 kickoff. Airtime on KCST is at 11:30. Oregon State will host Stanford on KCFM with a four o’clock kickoff… three o’clock airtime.

Professional chowder cookoff central part of festival; Private tour of homes set for this weekend; Heceta Head Coastal Conference and Vets Day parade.

It’s Chowder, Blues and Brews this weekend…

A total of eight different entries will be presented during Saturday’s Oregon Coast Professional Chowder Cookoff. It’s the ‘chowder’ portion of the Chowder Blues and Brews Festival that begins tomorrow evening at the Florence Events Center. A panel of professional judges will taste the entries beginning at 11:30 AM Saturday. Their task: selecting the best Clam Chowder on the Oregon Coast. The winner of that tasting gets bragging rights for a year, as well as $1,000. Beginning at one, the public can get in on it. With a paid entry into the festival they’ll sample each entry and vote on their favorite. In the ‘Brews’ portion of the festival, there are six Oregon Micro Brews pouring 11 different varieties. Festival goers will also vote on Friday and Saturday on their favorites. Going along with the Chowder and Brews is the musical portion of the weekend… a half dozen northwest Blues Bands, from the local Kush Band and Paradigm to the Cascade Blues Association’s ‘best new band of 2008’… the Ty Curtis Band. Doors are open from five to eleven Friday, and then from 11 to 11 Saturday. The festival is presented by the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce.

There won’t be a Homebuilder’s Association Tour of Homes this year… for one thing, the local collapse of the construction industry caused the local chapter to disband. But, there will be seven homes on display in the area. Anne Maxwell of Maxwell Construction says they’ve teamed up with Prudential Pacific Properties to provide their own ‘mini-tour’.
211 – “We’ve always had a real positive attitude that there would be an upturn. And we also recognize that the Chowder Blues and Brews Festival this weekend… people have been used to having the Homebuilders Association Tour of Homes. We decided that we wanted to provide that to the people who would be visiting Florence.”

Maxwell says they’ll have six homes on display in the new Spruce Village subdivision just east of Highway 101 on Munsel Lake Road. A seventh home is located in the Park Village development behind the Florence Justice Center on Ninth Street. Homes will be open for tours Saturday and Sunday.

Chowder Blues and Brews may be on tap for this coming weekend, but organizers of two different events are busy with preparations.

The Fifth Annual Heceta Head Coastal Conference is set for October 23rd and 24th at the Florence Events Center. It actually opens with a series of ‘discovery trips’ in Newport, Florence and Charleston. The theme of this year’s conference, says spokesperson Gayle Montgomery is “The Land-Sea Connection”. Florence’s trip will highlight fishery enhancements through watershed protection. One feature of that will be a limited entry boat trip to the Karnowsky Creek restoration. Only 36 seats are available for that. Early registration for the conference itself is $35. Online registration can be found at HecetaHeadConference.org.

Registration for entries in next month’s Veteran’s Day Parade are now being accepted. The parade is set for Saturday, November Seventh and the theme is “Honoring All Who Served”. Individuals or organizations are eligible to be in the parade. Registration forms are available at a dozen locations around town including the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce and City Hall.

TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:

Prep Volleyball:
The Mapleton Sailors beat Mohawk in three games last night for a Mountain West League victory. With just a handful of games remaining in the regular season, the Sailors trail division leading Crow by three games.

On The Schedule Tonight:
It’s Friday night on a Thursday… tomorrow’s school inservice has shifted prep football to tonight. Siuslaw opens up play in the Far West League on the road in Myrtle Creek against South Umpqua. Airtime on Coast Radio Sports will be at 6:45. Reedsport will continue Sunset League action at home against Glide and Mapleton is also at home. They’ll face the Mohawk Indians in Mountain West League play. All games kick off at seven.

Tone set early in Commission race; gas prices continue to dip; Home sales take an increase.

Tone set for County Commission Race…

The newest candidate in the race for West Lane County Commission announced his run yesterday… and Jay Bozievich made it clear that he’s unhappy with the way things have been done.
200 – “I’ve been watching our current board majority recently making some decisions and do some things that are really kind of endangering the whole quality of life and the reason I moved here.”

Bozievich said much of his dissatisfaction stems from the debate over public safety that took place last spring.
201 – “The initial decision by the board majority where they were not going to open up the 84 jail beds, they were going to hire themselves five new employees for staff and, you know, cut money from a couple of the programs that actually try and bring jobs into Lane County in the middle of a recession. I mean it was just, you know, one decision right after another.”

The Elmira resident may not be running directly against the incumbent right now, but his criticism extends to Bill Fleenor.
202 – “He’s kind of got a history of flip-flopping and changing his mind. He’s definitely making noises like, instead of his initial announcement that basically said he was definitely not running for personal reasons and now he’s saying ‘well I kind of don’t want to spend the money and that’s why I’m not running.’ So the story is kind of changing daily.”

Despite his previous announcement that he would not seek reelection, Fleenor commented to one media source yesterday that he – quote – “has until March 10th to make up his mind.”

Real estate results for the third quarter of 2009 were released this week with some positive news. According to the Pacific Valuation Group there was an 87-percent increase in home closings over the second quarter… from 39 residential units to 73. The report also shows a slight increase in sale prices and a decline, albeit small, in the amount of time that homes are on the market before they sell. That’s positive news for many realtors (reel-TORZ) like Dale Saari. He’s been in the industry locally for more than 30 years and has seen several ups and downs.
203 – “I’m hoping that we've bottomed out and we may be turning the corner. But I'm saying that with cautious optimism."

Saari compared the current recession with others that he has weathered. He says previous recessions, like the one in 1980, included higher interest rates and inflation to compound the recovery. One other bright spot contained in the report… the number of foreclosures in Western Lane County continue at a lower rate than the rest of the state.

The average price of a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline in Florence has come down 14-cents in the past three weeks… it’s now at $2.66… 12-cents below the Oregon average as measured by Triple-A of Oregon. It is, however, still 20-cents above the national average price. Despite the decreases, Oregon is still in the top-five nationally for average prices. Triple-A surveys several communities in the state… the average price in Eugene and Springfield this week is at $2.80 a gallon… in Portland it’s $2.75 and in Medford $2.88.

TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:

Prep Volleyball:
The Siuslaw Vikings downed the Douglas Trojans in three games last night to claim a home victory in the Far West League and break above the .500 level at 3-and-2. Leigh Aurich (ORR-ick) helped out with 29 assists; Seabre Church had 14 kills.

On The Schedule Tonight:
Reedsport will travel to Myrtle Point for Sunset League Volleyball. Mapleton will host Mohawk in the Mountain West.

Correction to earlier story on Highway 126

Nearly a year ahead of schedule traffic is flowing across a new bridge on Highway 126 over the North Fork of the Siuslaw River. Mowat Construction crews will now focus on demolition of the old bridge, originally built in 1960. Steve Templin with the Oregon Department of Transportation says as a result, no left turns will be allowed onto North Fork Road from eastbound Highway 126 until work is complete.

Please note that left turns from North Fork Road onto eastbound 126 will be allowed. It's left turns from EB 126 onto North Fork Road that will be eliminated until work is complete.

County Commission Race draws another; bogus Amber Alerts cause concern; Flu Vaccine; and North Fork Bridge opens

Lane County Commission Race draws another…

Two formal announcements will be made today as an Elmira man enters the race for the West Lane Position on the Lane County Commission. Jay Bozievich (BO-zih-vitch), a former chair of the Lane Community College Board of Education and a Senior Engineer with the Eugene Water and Electric Board intends to seek the $73-thousand a year post that has been held for the past three years by Bill Fleenor. Bozievich will formally announce on the Lane County Courthouse steps in Eugene this morning at 11:00 and then again this afternoon in Florence at 3:30 in front of the former Lotus Seafood Restaurant on Bay Street. He and his wife have lived in Elmira since 2006 and before that, lived in the River Road area of Northwest Eugene for 13 years. Fleenor announced suddenly last month that he would not seek re-election to a second term because of personal reasons. One other candidate has already filed for the May 18th primary election, LCC Instructor Anselmo Villanueva.

A series of hoax Amber Alert text messages and emails have been popping up around Oregon the past few days. Oregon State Police have been receiving inquiries about the validity of a reported involving a three-year old boy taken by a male in a Mitsubishi Eclipse. Reports of the spurious messages have been centered in the Portland Area and Douglas County with similar messages in California. OSP Lieutenant Molly Cotter, the Oregon Amber Alert Coordinator, says she’s very concerned about the false messages and adds the public should respond only to official alerts.

Flu shots at the Florence Events Center will not be offered after today because the company providing them says they are running short of seasonal vaccine. Pharmacies in Florence that have been providing the vaccinations will continue to do so however. Betsy Meredith with Lane County Public Health says they’re just beginning their public flu shot clinics. Meredith said about one-third of the vaccine ordered by Lane County has been delayed because labs are focusing on producing the H1N1 vaccine. She adds she hadn’t heard of any shortages.

Nearly a year ahead of schedule traffic is flowing across a new bridge on Highway 126 over the North Fork of the Siuslaw River. Mowat Construction crews will now focus on demolition of the old bridge, originally built in 1960. Steve Templin with the Oregon Department of Transportation says as a result, no left turns will be allowed coming out of North Fork Road onto Highway 126. But that’s only until work is complete.

TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:

Athlete of the Week:
Siuslaw Football standout Peter Tupua is Coast Radio Sports’ Athlete of the Week. The freshman tight end and running back carried the ball 11 times for 86 yards and two touchdowns in the Vikings’s win over Yamhill-Carlton. Tupua scored a third touchdown on the night, scooping up a loose ball and running it back 65 yards for a score, plus he picked off one pass. Honorable mention is given to Viking sophomore running back Sonny Tupua who performed yeoman duties in the same game, carrying the ball 26 times for 139 yards and one touchdown.

On The Schedule:
Prep Volleyball will have the Siuslaw Vikings at home against the Douglas Trojans tonight for Far West League play….

Florence police to focus on DV warrants; LC Fair turns profit; Drug bust nabs two in Old Town; and Coastal Fitness latest expansion opens.

Domestic Violence to be focus of Local Police

A total of 24 arrest warrants related to domestic violence will be actively pursued this month by Florence Police. Chief Maury Sanders says as of August 31st of this year, there were 72 incidents of Domestic Violence, down from 94 in the same time period a year before. Despite the drop, Sanders says there are “all too many incidents” and adds he community needs to work together to drive those numbers down. Local police will make warrant service a priority during October as a method of increasing public awareness of the issues surrounding domestic violence. Sanders said public assistance in locating and serving the warrants is one aim. But, he says, the public is asked not to confront the individuals, rather provide information directly to police. A complete listing of the 24 warrants is available at www.kcst.com, just click on the “Coast Radio News icon”.

Cutting expenses and other changes paid off in a profit of more than a quarter of a million dollars for the 2009 Lane County Fair. Director Rick Reno said the $274-thousand net provided much-needed support to the 55-acre Lane Events Center. Fair profits have historically been around $300,000, but tumbled to less than $100-thousand in 2008. Reno said expenses were cut by 15-percent this year and cash from sponsors was up 50-percent. The center has an annual operating budget of $4.4-million.

Florence police acted on information last week that drug sales were occurring at a residence in Old Town. Tuesday night, they served a warrant at 261 Oak Street. They confiscated various drug paraphernalia, approximately 16-grams of methamphetamine and other controlled prescription drugs. 32-year old Austin James Moore and 25-year old Derek John Bouchet were arrested on a variety of charges.

It all started 18-years ago with one exercise bike, a treadmill, one stair climber and a few weight machines. The latest addition to Coastal Fitness opened to the public Saturday morning with a newly expanded 20-thousand square foot facility including two swimming pools now in operation.

TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:

Cross Country:
Several Viking runners placed well in Saturday’s Woahink Invitational. Raelyn Robinson and Linda Paredes were sixth and seventh individually. Jacob Berkner was first for the Viking boys in 5th place, Brad Finnell 7th.

Prep Volleyball:
The Siuslaw Vikings split a pair of matches in Myrtle Creek Saturday. After winning the first two games they dropped three straight to South Umpqua. Later in the day, the Vikings downed Brookings-Harbor in three. The Reedsport Braves made it to the semi-finals of the Oakland Invitational where they fell to the Marshfield JV.

Prep Football:
Peter Tupua provided the final score for Siuslaw as the Vikings picked up their first win of the season, 28 – 7, over the Yamhill-Carlton Tigers. Tupua scooped up a loose ball and ran it back 65 yards for a touchdown with seven minutes remaining in the game. In Mapleton, Chad Walker rushed for 211 yards and two touchdowns as the Sailors downed Siletz 26 – 20. In Rogue River, the Reedsport Braves fumbled ten times, giving up eight of those in a 19 –8 loss to the Chieftains.

College Football:
Oregon State downed Arizona State 28 – 17 for their first win over the Sun Devils in Tempe in 40 years Saturday afternoon. In Eugene, the Ducks scratched the Cougars 52 – 6 and have moved up to number 13 on the AP Polls.

Domestic Violence Awareness – Active Warrants for Arrests

Reprinted in its entirety from a press release issued by Florence Police:

This year as of August 31, 2009 Florence has had 72 incidents of domestic violence with and without abuse. During the same period last year we experienced 94 incidents. These are all too many incidents of domestic violence and as a community we need to drive these numbers down.
In conjunction with Domestic Violence Awareness Month the Florence Police Department is making the community aware of the various warrants for the arrest of persons whose initial incident was some type of Domestic Violence offense as defined in the Abuse Prevention Act. This could be Assault IV, Harassment, Menacing, and violation of No-Contact Orders.
Warrants are public records as they are issued publically in open court by a magistrate. There are 24 warrants on this list, one for a female responsible. There are 9 Failure to Pay Fine Warrants, 9 Failure to Appear Warrants, 4 Warrants of Arrest, 1 Violation of Probation Warrant, and 1 Failure to Comply Warrant, all for Domestic Violence incidents.

Atwell, Alan Eugene Lane Circuit Assault IV Felony FTA
Barney, Dustin Ray (2) FLM Assault IV
Brown, Timothy Lee FLM Physical Harassment FTP
Carkhuff, Bryan Clayton FLM Assault IV FTP
Chavez, Thomas Mat FLM Assault IV FTP FTA
Cook, Jeffrey A FLM Assault IV FTC
Cripe, Roy Sherman FLM Physical Harassment
Defrates, Christopher John FLM Att Assault III FTA
Fox, Derek B FLM Assault IV FTP
Holcomb, Brian Lee FLM Assault IV FTA
Hornsby, Steven FLM Assault IV FTA
Leech, Edward Palmer Lane Circuit Menacing PV
Mally, Ernest Glenn FLM Assault IV FTA
Moore, Thomas Louis FLM Assault IV FTP
Nay, David Wesley FLM Physical Harassment FTP
Nottingham Steven M FLM Assault IV
Pickle, Douglas Brady FLM Assault IV FTA
Pino, Jesse Leon FLM Assault IV FTA
Romeromartinez, Jose Trinidad FLM Assault IV FTP
Selby, Clifton Dale FLM Assault IV FTA FTP
Sexton, Eric Dean FLM Physical Harassment FTP
Sweeney Mark Michael FLM Assault IV FTA
Vandervoort, Susan FLM Assault IV FTP

The Police Department will be making service of these warrants a priority in October to increase public awareness as part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. We ask that if anyone in the community is aware of the whereabouts of these persons to call the Police Department at 997-3515. The public is asked not to confront these individuals. Information may be provided anonymously.

For further information, contact Sarah Huff, Administrative Assistant/PIO at 541 997-3515.

Two in Florence arrested following tip

With information of drug sales occurring at a local Old Town residence, Florence police officers were able to gain enough information to seek a search warrant. On September 29, 2009 at around 7:00 P.M. Florence police officers served a search warrant at the residence located at 261 Oak Street in Old Town Florence.

Officers found various drug paraphernalia, approximately 16 grams of methamphetamine, and other controlled prescription substances. Two arrests were made in conjunction with this search warrant.

Austin James Moore, 32 years, of Florence was arrested and charged with Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance schedule II, Unlawful Possession of a Controlled Substance schedule III, Manufacture/Distribution of a schedule II substance, and felon in possession of a firearm.

Also arrested was Derek John Bouchet, 25 years, of Florence. Bouchet was charged with Unlawful Possession of a Controlled substance class II, Manufacture/Distribution of a class II substance, and parole violation for Burglary I.

Both men were taken into custody without incident and subsequently lodged at the Lane County jail.

Oregon's Kelly to consider the potential for Blount's reinstatement

EUGENE – University of Oregon Head Football Coach Chip Kelly has announced that there is potential opportunity for senior running back LeGarrette Blount to be allowed to have his playing status be reinstated prior to the conclusion of the 2009 season.

Blount was suspended by Kelly following the Ducks’ 19-8 loss at Boise State on Sept. 3, with the suspension initially to include the exclusion of playing in any games for the remainder of the season.

Kelly said he developed a plan that Blount would have to follow in order to retain his status with the team. The plan later was revised to encompass a possibility of Blount’s return.

The Oregon first-year head coach added that any reinstatement would occur at a later date and certainly not immediately.

“After speaking with a number of nationally renowned professionals in the field, which included Dr. Harry Edwards and Tony Dungy, I came to the conclusion that leaving the door open for LeGarrette’s potential return as an active player was the best solution,” Kelly said.

“He has a rigid set of conditions he must live up to and there are certainly no guarantees in place. This merely provides him the opportunity for my reconsideration in the future should he meet those demands.”

Oregon Director of Athletics Mike Bellotti said that both he and University President Richard Lariviere had been kept up to date in regards to the process, and Bellotti reiterated his support for Kelly’s decision.

Blount has remained a part of the school’s football program since the initial suspension was announced Sept. 4, which included remaining on scholarship. He continues to have access to all of the University’s support services provided to all student-athletes, is allowed to take part in all team activities, including practice with the team, and is held accountable to all team rules and regulations.

H1N1 vaccine poses few risks; LCSO names resident deputy; Stepping out against domestic violence and Oregon's Blount... reinstatement coming?

Swine Flu Vaccines don’t pose inordinate risk…

Doctors say there’s really nothing to fear from flu vaccines. Rumors and hearsay abound about severe reactions following a flu shot. But Lane County Public Health Officer Dr. Sarah Hendrickson says the risk is minimal.
205 – “If you’re allergic to eggs you shouldn’t get the shot. If you had a prior allergic reaction or a rare neurological problem you shouldn’t get the shot. Your chances of having serious troubles from a flu vaccine are about one in a million, your chance of getting dead from this flu is probably one in ten-thousand to one in a hundred-thousand.”

Hendrickson says traditional flu shots use a vaccine developed from dead virus so it’s impossible to get the swine-origin flu from an H1N1 shot. The nasal ‘flu-mist’ spray does contain live virus, but she says it’s genetically modified to remain in your sinuses and help you develop anti-bodies to fight off the full blown virus. Health officials say vaccines for the H1N1 flu will begin appearing in about two or three weeks and they estimate there will ultimately be more than enough for anyone who wants it.

A 24-year veteran of the Lane County Sheriff’s Office and a familiar face in Western Lane County has been named as the LCSO Resident Deputy for the Florence and Mapleton Areas. A recent federal grant allowed the agency to name three resident deputies… the others will be stationed in Blue River and Cottage Grove. Kerrie Boggs has worked a variety of assignments over the years, most of them in the Florence area.

Don’t be too concerned if you see about three-dozen men, all wearing purple t-shirts and women’s shoes strolling down Bay Street tomorrow morning.
206 – “It’s going to be ‘step out against domestic violence’. We’re going to be staging at the Veteran’s Park on Bay Street about 9:45… we’re going to march against domestic violence.”

Siuslaw Outreach Services spokesperson Tony Bour says October is Domestic Violence Awareness month… they’re using the event tomorrow to draw attention to the issue. Bour says there are estimates that one in four women will be victims of relationship abuse or violence sometime in their lifetimes.

TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:

ESPN is reporting suspended running back LaGarrette Blount could be reinstated later this season. Oregon coach Chip Kelly is expected to address Blount's status Friday. Blount, who punched Boise State's Byron Hout after the Ducks' season-opening loss, will have a chance to be reinstated later this season, provided he continues to follow a plan set in place after the first game, a source told ESPN. That would not happen until Oregon's bye week on Oct. 17 at the earliest. It's believed Oregon athletic director Mike Bellotti and school president Richard Lariviere have agreed to a possible reinstatement. On Thursday, the Oregon school newspaper published an apology from Blount, who recently became a new father. The No. 16 Ducks host Washington State on Saturday.

Prep Volleyball:
The Mapleton Sailors overcame an early two game deficit to defeat Alsea at home in five. Liz Harry had nine kills, Lindsey Logan added eight more for the Sailors.

On The Schedule:
First up, prep football… Siuslaw will be in Yamhill County tonight where they’ll face the Yamhill-Carlton Tigers in their final non-league contest of the year. That game will air on Coast Radio Sports at 6:45. In the Sunset Conference, Reedsport travels to Rogue River and Mapleton will host Siletz for a Mountain West League matchup. All games kick off at seven.

Prep volleyball tomorrow will feature a ‘dual-dual’ for the Siuslaw Vikings. They’ll take on the South Umpqua Lancers in Myrtle Creek to start the day, and then take on Brookings-Harbor at the same location following that. The Reedsport Braves will be at the Oakland Invitational.

On the Cross Country Course… it’s the annual Woahink Invitational at East Woahink Day Use Area at Honeyman State Park. Preliminaries get underway at 11 with the varsity races starting around 12:30.

The college gridiron, Oregon State is in Tempe against the Arizona State Sun Devils for a 4:00 game. Airtime on KCFM is at three. The number 16 ranked Ducks are at home against Washington State at 6:15. Airtime on KCST is at five.

H1N1 Vaccine due this month; local prep for swine flu; Florence Cinema to reopen and OSAA redistricting committee releases report

Swine Flu Vaccine to be released later this month…

There will be enough vaccine for the H1N1 virus, commonly known as swine flu, so that widespread vaccinations can begin by the middle of October.
215 -- "The distribution of the vaccine, both between states and then within states, is basically done on a per capita basis so Oregon will be receiving a share based on our population."

Dr. Mel Kohn, the State’s Public Health Director, says the first shipments will go towards vaccinating ‘priority’ segments of the population: pregnant women, health care workers and others. Surprisingly, people over the age of 65 are not on that list.
216 -- "The folks who are getting sick, have tended to be younger than what we see in a typical flu year. And the kind of illness that they're having is a little bit different and perhaps a little bit more complicated. But in general, the severity of illness appears to be the same as what we see in a seasonal flu year."

Kohn says people born before 1957 have already been exposed to the virus and have some natural immunity.

The swine flu and a possible pandemic will be the subject of this afternoon’s KCST Community Forum. Dr. Sarah Hendrickson, Lane County’s Public Health Officer, will talk about preparations for the onset of flu season. She’ll also talk about efforts to organize a quick and efficient means to distribute the H1N1 vaccine. Today’s program, on 106.9 FM, begins at 4:05 with the first half hour devoted to domestic violence awareness. The show is extended by an hour with Dr. Hendrickson and a panel of local emergency and health officials talking about swine flu between 4:30 and 6 pm.

Coming soon, to a theater near you… The Florence Cinema has been dark since July and it’s set to reopen October 23rd. Ray Welch of Dayville, Connecticut will operate the four-screen cinema. Welch has 25-years in the industry and says he’s not the type to simply sit in the box office and collect admissions.
217 -- "The key to my success, I had to get involved with the community. I showed movies for the schools, I got involved with going to the local hospitals, I handed out passes, anything I had to do, I did it. I got involved with the chamber of commerce, my key to my success was being involved with the community."

Welch says he anticipates ticket and concession prices will generally be lower than what people might expect to pay at other movie theaters.

A fund raiser is set for tonight at Abby’s Pizza where 20-percent of profits on sales between 5:00 and 7:30 will go towards a fund to benefit Izzy Stratton. The volunteer firefighter suffered head injuries in an off-duty car crash on Highway 36 near Mapleton in August. Pete Warren says Stratton will be on hand for this evening’s activities.

TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:

Under the final recommendations of the Oregon School Activities Association Classification and Districting Committee there will be little change for area schools. Siuslaw and the other five teams currently in the 4A Far West League will remain there. The current all-3A Sunset League will become a 2A/3A hybrid with Reedsport continuing to play in that conference. The Mapleton Sailors will also stay put. The 1A Mountain West League will see no changes. Most of the realignments proposed by the committee are based on enrollment changes and travel times projected for central and eastern Oregon schools. Although one major revision in the 4A ranks. Schools in the mid-Willamette Valley and the Central Coast will be reshuffled with many being shifted into adjoining leagues and a core group will make up the “Capital-Coast”. The committee’s recommendations will be taken up by the OSAA Executive Board October 26th.

On The Schedule Tonight:
Reedsport takes to the road for volleyball action in Medford against Cascade Christian… the Mountain West League volleyball schedule has Mapleton at home with Alsea.