It's over: Legislature goes home after 2009 session.
After six months on the job the Oregon Legislature has gone home. The gavel came down last night on a session dominated by recession and its impact on state tax revenues. Democrats controlled the house and used their majorities to patch a budget together, raising taxes and passing bills that will still result in layoffs and shorter school years as well as higher tuition at universities. They say they did a good job in a tough time and focused on jobs. Republicans say the session will be remembered simply for tax increases. Opponents of tax increases on businesses and the wealthy say they will pursue statewide votes on those issues.
The winner of an international art competition is self-taught and spent three months easing her own pain as her wounded soldier-son recovered by creating the face of a Geisha and cherry blossoms out of beads. Charmaine Pesnell said she would call her son every day, then focus on her creation as a way to give her peace. Her design contained more than 20-thousand Toho beads and won first place at this year’s Bead and Button Show in Milwaukie, Wisconsin. She and U-S Bead Warehouse manager Kim McDaniel will spend a week in Japan. The bottle cover itself will remain on display for a year at the Toho bead factory and museum in Hiroshima.
The Florence Planning Commission is expected to focus one last time tonight on a 97-unit housing development that neighbors say will bring too much traffic to their neighborhood. Backers of the Ocean Dunes Planned Unit Development dispute that but say they’ll route construction traffic away from neighborhood streets to minimize impact. A public hearing on the proposal was closed last week. City staff members say with some conditions it meets code requirements and they are recommending approval. The planning commission meets at seven pm at City Hall.
120-acres of prime elk habitat will go up in flames along Highway 38 near Reedsport this week. It’s all part of a plan to improve forage at the popular Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area. Controlled burns in the meadows and pastures of the viewing area will be done this week by Bureau of Land Management crews. Bill Elam with the BLM says the viewing areas and restrooms may be closed temporarily during the process.
Taking a look at Coast Radio Sports…
American Legion Baseball:
The two teams put up a combined 31 hits as Salem’s Post Nine downed the Three Rivers Sandblasters in seven innings last night, 23-13. It was the fifth straight loss for Three Rivers, their third consecutive in conference play. Sheldon Astria earned the win; Kyle Davis the loss. Three Rivers will be back on the diamond tonight in Florence at five against the Mid-Valley Rockets.
Northwest League Baseball:
Eugene’s Jason Hagerty was one-for-four last night, but that one single in the bottom of the seventh inning drove in Bo Davis to break a three-three tie and the Emeralds hung on for a 4-3 Northwest League victory over the Everett Aqua-Sox last night. Mauricio Tabachnik allowed one unearned run in 2 1/3 innings of relief for the win; David Erickson picked up his third save of the year coming to the mound with one out in the eighth and retired five straight batters in order to preserve the score. The two teams continue their series in Eugene tonight.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Monday, June 29, 2009
Leg session wrapping up; council to ponder Senior Center site; Maple Street closed and one number to access County services
Lawmakers wrapping up legislative efforts…
A Coos Bay lawmaker says one of the most significant accomplishments achieved during this session of the Oregon Legislature was the approval of two areas off the Oregon Coast that will serve as the state’s first-ever Marine Reserves.
200 – “Our coastal caucus worked very hard this session and I think you’ll see a lot of stuff on helping us with the coast. The hard-fought compromise that was worked out on reserves, I think, was a really good thing for the coast.”
Representative Arnie Roblan said in addition to marine reserves, additional funding for transportation issues on the central and south coast will aid residents here. He’s also proud of the fact that lawmakers took steps to ensure that alternative sources of energy will get a fair shake in the future.
201 – “That kind of green industry whether that’s wave industry, whether that’s wind, whether that’s… those things… in our state, trying to develop a new industrial base in our state.”
Roblan said there most likely will be another special ‘annual’ session of a limited duration in February. At that time he expects lawmakers to produce a formal proposal for Oregon Voters to consider making the switch from biennial meetings of the legislature to sessions each year.
The Florence City Council will look at several variations on possible plans for low-income housing on the site of the current Senior Booster Center tonight. A new senior center is set to break ground four blocks away and that would leave the land along Airport Road as possibly surplus. In March the city held informal discussions with Habitat for Humanity on a possible land-swap for a portion of that site. The eastern end of the Booster Center site has been suggested as a location for future Habitat homes. Architect Paul Jensen came up with four alternative ‘visions’ for the entire parcel for the council to consider. They’ll look at those tonight and possibly make a decision on how best to use the property.
Traffic around the Siuslaw Public Library is going to be disrupted again tomorrow while construction crews have Maple Street between eighth and ninth blocked. The work is part of the library expansion. Workers will be making a water line connection in the street beginning about 7:30 AM and should be done by five pm tomorrow.
Western Lane County residents now have one single number to call when they want access county services. It’s a local number, so no long-distance charges apply. 997-5182 will get Florence, Dunes City and Mapleton area residents in touch with anyone from the Board of County Commissioners to the Sheriff’s office and even public works and social services. That number again, 997-5182.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
American Legion Baseball:
The Eugene Challengers scored twice in the bottom of the ninth inning Saturday night to come back for a 6-5 win over the Three Rivers Sandblasters at North Eugene High School. The ‘Blasters had taken the lead in the seventh on a two run Drew Rainwater homerun. Brady Kilpatrick earned the win for the Challengers… their second straight over Three Rivers; Trevor Roberts got the loss. It was a relatively error-free game with both teams committing only three between them… the Challengers with two, Sandblasters with one. It’s back to the Zone-Three diamond at home this evening in Florence for Three Rivers… they’ll host Salem’s Post 9 at five PM.
Northwest League Baseball:
The losing streak went to four… the Eugene Emeralds fell Friday night to the Yakima Bears, 3-6, before coming alive Saturday night to break that streak with a 9-1 win over the Bears. The Ems came home to Civic Stadium yesterday afternoon where they beat the Everett Aqua Sox 5-4 in the first game of a six-game home series against the Sox.
A Coos Bay lawmaker says one of the most significant accomplishments achieved during this session of the Oregon Legislature was the approval of two areas off the Oregon Coast that will serve as the state’s first-ever Marine Reserves.
200 – “Our coastal caucus worked very hard this session and I think you’ll see a lot of stuff on helping us with the coast. The hard-fought compromise that was worked out on reserves, I think, was a really good thing for the coast.”
Representative Arnie Roblan said in addition to marine reserves, additional funding for transportation issues on the central and south coast will aid residents here. He’s also proud of the fact that lawmakers took steps to ensure that alternative sources of energy will get a fair shake in the future.
201 – “That kind of green industry whether that’s wave industry, whether that’s wind, whether that’s… those things… in our state, trying to develop a new industrial base in our state.”
Roblan said there most likely will be another special ‘annual’ session of a limited duration in February. At that time he expects lawmakers to produce a formal proposal for Oregon Voters to consider making the switch from biennial meetings of the legislature to sessions each year.
The Florence City Council will look at several variations on possible plans for low-income housing on the site of the current Senior Booster Center tonight. A new senior center is set to break ground four blocks away and that would leave the land along Airport Road as possibly surplus. In March the city held informal discussions with Habitat for Humanity on a possible land-swap for a portion of that site. The eastern end of the Booster Center site has been suggested as a location for future Habitat homes. Architect Paul Jensen came up with four alternative ‘visions’ for the entire parcel for the council to consider. They’ll look at those tonight and possibly make a decision on how best to use the property.
Traffic around the Siuslaw Public Library is going to be disrupted again tomorrow while construction crews have Maple Street between eighth and ninth blocked. The work is part of the library expansion. Workers will be making a water line connection in the street beginning about 7:30 AM and should be done by five pm tomorrow.
Western Lane County residents now have one single number to call when they want access county services. It’s a local number, so no long-distance charges apply. 997-5182 will get Florence, Dunes City and Mapleton area residents in touch with anyone from the Board of County Commissioners to the Sheriff’s office and even public works and social services. That number again, 997-5182.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
American Legion Baseball:
The Eugene Challengers scored twice in the bottom of the ninth inning Saturday night to come back for a 6-5 win over the Three Rivers Sandblasters at North Eugene High School. The ‘Blasters had taken the lead in the seventh on a two run Drew Rainwater homerun. Brady Kilpatrick earned the win for the Challengers… their second straight over Three Rivers; Trevor Roberts got the loss. It was a relatively error-free game with both teams committing only three between them… the Challengers with two, Sandblasters with one. It’s back to the Zone-Three diamond at home this evening in Florence for Three Rivers… they’ll host Salem’s Post 9 at five PM.
Northwest League Baseball:
The losing streak went to four… the Eugene Emeralds fell Friday night to the Yakima Bears, 3-6, before coming alive Saturday night to break that streak with a 9-1 win over the Bears. The Ems came home to Civic Stadium yesterday afternoon where they beat the Everett Aqua Sox 5-4 in the first game of a six-game home series against the Sox.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Governor faces two overrides,
Legislature overrides Governor on education funding
After seven years in office without having a veto over-ridden by the legislature, Governor Kulongoski faced two in the same day yesterday. The Oregon House voted overwhelmingly to override the first veto, of the education funding package that will ultimately send $6-billion to K-through-12 education over the next two years. It won’t go evenly however. Lawmakers allocated $2.9-billion for the first year and the rest would come in the 2010-11 school year. The second veto override came in response to the Governors effort to block the legislature’s withdrawal of funding from the state’s Education Rainy Day Fund. Lawmakers siphoned off just over $200-million to fully fund the education budget leaving $113-million in reserve. The Senate had already voted to override the veto on Wednesday.
Nearly $9.6-million for dredging and maintenance of seven south coast ports will be included in the final version of the appropriations bill being considered by the U-S House of Representatives. Fourth District Congressman Peter DeFazio said the money was approved by a House Sub-Committee yesterday. Under the plan, the Port of Siuslaw would receive $817-thousand, the Port of Umpqua nearly $1.2-million to pay for removal of silt and channel maintenance.
The Florence City Council will hold a special meeting Monday night…
200 – “Originally we scheduled a special meeting for the council to consider the coastal goals update to our code as well as the latest round of code updates.”
However, says city manager Bob Willoughby, the Planning Commission isn’t scheduled to take action on those changes until Tuesday. But…
201 – “It was a good thing we had that scheduled because we have to adopt our budget for next year.”
Work on the city’s budget for the coming year wasn’t finalized until this past week, delaying the council’s action until early next week.
Tuesday was the first day this year that approved fireworks could legally be purchased in Oregon. Oregon State Fire Marshall Randy Simpson stressed that anything that flies, explodes or travels more than six feet on the ground is illegal to not only sell, but use. Simpson said seizure of the banned fireworks and a $500 fine are possible if you are caught with the wrong stuff. He says the best way to ensure your fireworks are legal in Oregon is to buy them from a licensed vendor.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
American Legion Baseball:
The Three Rivers Sandblasters lost a non-league contest, 10-7, yesterday at home to the Eugene Challengers. But they may have lost more than that. The 2008 4A player of the year, Newport’s Eddie Crowe left the game in the fourth inning with a possible separated shoulder after being tagged out on a pickoff play at first base. The ‘Blasters have today off, they’ll face the Challengers again tomorrow at North Eugene High School in another non-league game at six. That game will air on Coast Radio Sports beginning at 5:45.
Northwest League Baseball:
Tyrell Worthington drove in four runs and four Yakima relief pitchers held the Eugene Emeralds to one run over the final four innings and the Bears came out on top 12-6, in Yakima yesterday. The lead has swapped twice by the time the teams were tied at five-all in the fourth inning, but the Bears cruised to their third straight win over Eugene. There was a bright spot for the Ems… 6’7” first baseman Nathan Freiman broke out of a one-for-22 slump with three hits, including two doubles. The teams meet again today and tomorrow to wrap up their five game series. The Emeralds return to Civic Stadium Sunday where they’ll open up against the Everett Aqua Sox.
After seven years in office without having a veto over-ridden by the legislature, Governor Kulongoski faced two in the same day yesterday. The Oregon House voted overwhelmingly to override the first veto, of the education funding package that will ultimately send $6-billion to K-through-12 education over the next two years. It won’t go evenly however. Lawmakers allocated $2.9-billion for the first year and the rest would come in the 2010-11 school year. The second veto override came in response to the Governors effort to block the legislature’s withdrawal of funding from the state’s Education Rainy Day Fund. Lawmakers siphoned off just over $200-million to fully fund the education budget leaving $113-million in reserve. The Senate had already voted to override the veto on Wednesday.
Nearly $9.6-million for dredging and maintenance of seven south coast ports will be included in the final version of the appropriations bill being considered by the U-S House of Representatives. Fourth District Congressman Peter DeFazio said the money was approved by a House Sub-Committee yesterday. Under the plan, the Port of Siuslaw would receive $817-thousand, the Port of Umpqua nearly $1.2-million to pay for removal of silt and channel maintenance.
The Florence City Council will hold a special meeting Monday night…
200 – “Originally we scheduled a special meeting for the council to consider the coastal goals update to our code as well as the latest round of code updates.”
However, says city manager Bob Willoughby, the Planning Commission isn’t scheduled to take action on those changes until Tuesday. But…
201 – “It was a good thing we had that scheduled because we have to adopt our budget for next year.”
Work on the city’s budget for the coming year wasn’t finalized until this past week, delaying the council’s action until early next week.
Tuesday was the first day this year that approved fireworks could legally be purchased in Oregon. Oregon State Fire Marshall Randy Simpson stressed that anything that flies, explodes or travels more than six feet on the ground is illegal to not only sell, but use. Simpson said seizure of the banned fireworks and a $500 fine are possible if you are caught with the wrong stuff. He says the best way to ensure your fireworks are legal in Oregon is to buy them from a licensed vendor.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
American Legion Baseball:
The Three Rivers Sandblasters lost a non-league contest, 10-7, yesterday at home to the Eugene Challengers. But they may have lost more than that. The 2008 4A player of the year, Newport’s Eddie Crowe left the game in the fourth inning with a possible separated shoulder after being tagged out on a pickoff play at first base. The ‘Blasters have today off, they’ll face the Challengers again tomorrow at North Eugene High School in another non-league game at six. That game will air on Coast Radio Sports beginning at 5:45.
Northwest League Baseball:
Tyrell Worthington drove in four runs and four Yakima relief pitchers held the Eugene Emeralds to one run over the final four innings and the Bears came out on top 12-6, in Yakima yesterday. The lead has swapped twice by the time the teams were tied at five-all in the fourth inning, but the Bears cruised to their third straight win over Eugene. There was a bright spot for the Ems… 6’7” first baseman Nathan Freiman broke out of a one-for-22 slump with three hits, including two doubles. The teams meet again today and tomorrow to wrap up their five game series. The Emeralds return to Civic Stadium Sunday where they’ll open up against the Everett Aqua Sox.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Lane County Unemployment at record level; Fireworks prohibited on the beach; and Dunes City Citizen Involvement process...
Lane County Unemployment hits record level…
Lane County’s jobless rate has more than doubled in the past year, and it’s nearly two full percentage points higher than the statewide average. Mike Myers, a workforce analyst with the Oregon Employment Department, says job losses in one segment have been the main culprit.
215 -- "In this recession Lane County has really been hit hard with job losses in manufacturing."
Most of those losses have been in the recreational vehicle manufacturing industry, but many of them came with the 2008 closure of the West Eugene Hynix plant. At 14.2-percent, the jobless rate in Lane County is the highest since 1958. Myers said the Florence area hasn't been hit with the same types of job losses, but there has been pain on this end of the county.
216 -- "Certainly construction has had a big impact and it's slowed down quite a bit and the housing market has also. But in general, you know, the whole economy is feeling this recession."
Retail sales continue to suffer, but Myers does see a ray of hope.
217 -- "The major job losses have stopped. In fact over the last three months we haven't had any job loss on a seasonally adjusted basis. That doesn't mean that that's going to continue going forward, but certainly we would expect if there are more job losses they're going to be much smaller."
Oregon has the second highest unemployment rate in the nation, behind only Michigan.
With the Fourth of July holiday just over a week away, state parks officials wanted to remind residents that fireworks may be fun, but there are some limitations.
218 -- "Fireworks are prohibited on the beach, several reasons. One of the main ones being of course, the fire danger with the beach grass that's nearby. Especially along the coast with the winds we get this time of year."
Beach Safety Specialist Robert Smith says the prohibition includes even sparklers and it extends to all state parks. Notices are posted at the parks as well as major beach access points. The ban on fireworks applies to most public land. The Oregon Dunes and U-S Forest Service also prohibit them, and a recent ordinance was passed by Port of Siuslaw banning fireworks on their property.
Dunes City is in the process of exploring a new ordinance that would more closely regulate stormwater runoff into area lakes. Planning Secretary Lisa Ecklund says it’s aimed primarily at new construction. A meeting earlier this month provided a brief review of the rules. Dunes City’s Committee for Citizen Involvement has a unique structure that allows any resident to have a say. That’s the group tasked with coming up with the rules…
219 – “The citizens who show up to the CCI meeting are members of that CCI for that meeting and they are voting members.”
The next meeting is coming up in three weeks on July 16th.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
American Legion Baseball:
The Three Rivers Sandblasters fell to third place in Zone three with a 7-2 loss at home last night to the Withnell Dodgers. R.J. Phillips struck out eight batters and allowed four hits in 6 1/3 innings of work for the win. Bryce Weidman also threw eight strikeouts, but gave up back to back solo homeruns in the fifth inning, allowing 11 hits in his six innings. The ‘Blasters are on the diamond this evening for a non-league matchup against the Eugene Challengers at five. That game will air on Coast Radio Sports beginning at 4:45.
Northwest League Baseball:
Clayton Conner had a double and a three-run homer as the Yakima Bears beat the Eugene Emeralds 6-3. Matt Vern's RBI single gave Eugene an early 3-0 lead, but they were shut down after that. Conner's sixth-inning blast tied the score, and Yakima added three runs in the eighth. Despite allowing six runs, Eugene pitchers showed their promise by combining to strike out 13 batters. Game three of the five-game series in Yakima is set for tonight.
USA Track & Field Championships
Nearly 30 current, future and former Oregon track and field athletes will be in competition through Sunday at Hayward Field in Eugene during the 2009 USA Track and Field Championships. Headlining that group: 2009 NCAA champions Galen Rupp, Ashton Eaton, Rachel Yurkovich and Andrew Wheating.
Lane County’s jobless rate has more than doubled in the past year, and it’s nearly two full percentage points higher than the statewide average. Mike Myers, a workforce analyst with the Oregon Employment Department, says job losses in one segment have been the main culprit.
215 -- "In this recession Lane County has really been hit hard with job losses in manufacturing."
Most of those losses have been in the recreational vehicle manufacturing industry, but many of them came with the 2008 closure of the West Eugene Hynix plant. At 14.2-percent, the jobless rate in Lane County is the highest since 1958. Myers said the Florence area hasn't been hit with the same types of job losses, but there has been pain on this end of the county.
216 -- "Certainly construction has had a big impact and it's slowed down quite a bit and the housing market has also. But in general, you know, the whole economy is feeling this recession."
Retail sales continue to suffer, but Myers does see a ray of hope.
217 -- "The major job losses have stopped. In fact over the last three months we haven't had any job loss on a seasonally adjusted basis. That doesn't mean that that's going to continue going forward, but certainly we would expect if there are more job losses they're going to be much smaller."
Oregon has the second highest unemployment rate in the nation, behind only Michigan.
With the Fourth of July holiday just over a week away, state parks officials wanted to remind residents that fireworks may be fun, but there are some limitations.
218 -- "Fireworks are prohibited on the beach, several reasons. One of the main ones being of course, the fire danger with the beach grass that's nearby. Especially along the coast with the winds we get this time of year."
Beach Safety Specialist Robert Smith says the prohibition includes even sparklers and it extends to all state parks. Notices are posted at the parks as well as major beach access points. The ban on fireworks applies to most public land. The Oregon Dunes and U-S Forest Service also prohibit them, and a recent ordinance was passed by Port of Siuslaw banning fireworks on their property.
Dunes City is in the process of exploring a new ordinance that would more closely regulate stormwater runoff into area lakes. Planning Secretary Lisa Ecklund says it’s aimed primarily at new construction. A meeting earlier this month provided a brief review of the rules. Dunes City’s Committee for Citizen Involvement has a unique structure that allows any resident to have a say. That’s the group tasked with coming up with the rules…
219 – “The citizens who show up to the CCI meeting are members of that CCI for that meeting and they are voting members.”
The next meeting is coming up in three weeks on July 16th.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
American Legion Baseball:
The Three Rivers Sandblasters fell to third place in Zone three with a 7-2 loss at home last night to the Withnell Dodgers. R.J. Phillips struck out eight batters and allowed four hits in 6 1/3 innings of work for the win. Bryce Weidman also threw eight strikeouts, but gave up back to back solo homeruns in the fifth inning, allowing 11 hits in his six innings. The ‘Blasters are on the diamond this evening for a non-league matchup against the Eugene Challengers at five. That game will air on Coast Radio Sports beginning at 4:45.
Northwest League Baseball:
Clayton Conner had a double and a three-run homer as the Yakima Bears beat the Eugene Emeralds 6-3. Matt Vern's RBI single gave Eugene an early 3-0 lead, but they were shut down after that. Conner's sixth-inning blast tied the score, and Yakima added three runs in the eighth. Despite allowing six runs, Eugene pitchers showed their promise by combining to strike out 13 batters. Game three of the five-game series in Yakima is set for tonight.
USA Track & Field Championships
Nearly 30 current, future and former Oregon track and field athletes will be in competition through Sunday at Hayward Field in Eugene during the 2009 USA Track and Field Championships. Headlining that group: 2009 NCAA champions Galen Rupp, Ashton Eaton, Rachel Yurkovich and Andrew Wheating.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Port completing improvements, Dunes City budget approved, gas levels off? And, Jesse Owens on screen at Hayward Field
Port improvements nearing completion…
The final pieces of the Port of Siuslaw’s new transient dock are being put in place. When the work is complete, Port of Siuslaw Manager Mark Freeman says it will wrap up about a decade and a half of planning and fund-raising for the $1.5-million project.
210 – “It’s been in gestation, figuratively speaking, for about 14 years or so, from the first set of appropriations. But it takes a long time to put together funding.”
If the gestation period was 14 years, that means labor pains for the replacement of the Maple Street Landing and 720-feet of float docks began several months ago.
211 – “It’s been more than several months and if anyone has done a home construction project, there’s always going to be delays.”
Initially, Freeman had hoped to have everything complete by this spring but he’s not really surprised at the delays that have combined to push that off.
212 – “Late July for completion, for final hookup of everything. There’s electrification, there’s hookup of water lines, there’s also a new pump-out.”
The work will coincide with completion of the new ice facility. All of the improvements, he said, should make Florence an attractive draw both for commercial vessels and touring cruisers. Freeman also said the Port of Siuslaw investment in the entire improvement project will amount to less than $100-thousand… with state and federal funds combining to contribute the other $1.4-million.
Dunes City tightened its collective belt yesterday, but two city councilors say it may not be tight enough. The 09-10 budget was approved in a special midday session. Voting no were Rebecca Ruede and Jaime Mills. Mills expressed concern the city, which relies on user fees, grant funding and pass-throughs from other agencies, may not have enough money to support the staff at city hall. Mayor Eric Hauptmann (HOWPT-mun) countered that. He said they’ve budgeted conservatively and staff understands they’ll have to watch expenses. He also said Dunes City would not be able to provide services by using volunteers.
The national average price for a gallon of regular unleaded leveled off this week at $2.68. That’s after nearly two months of daily increases. In Oregon, the average went up by three cents this past week to $2.81 a gallon while in Florence, the increase was six cents to $2.70 a gallon. Marie Dodds with Triple-A of Oregon says she expects prices to hold steady or possibly decrease slightly over the next several weeks as wholesale prices are expected to do the same.
Jesse Owens will be appearing at Eugene’s Historic Hayward Field today. The documentary, “Jesse Owens Returns to Berlin”, containing archival footage of the legendary runner at the 1936 Olympics, will be shown on the ‘Trackvision’ screen at Hayward during the final practice session before tomorrow’s opening of the USA Outdoor Track and Field Championships. The screening begins at 5:00, it’s free and open to the public.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
American Legion Baseball:
Nathan Williams’ walk-off three-run homer in the bottom of the eighth inning made it a ten-run difference, clinching an 11-1 Richey’s victory over the Three Rivers Sandblasters last night in Corvallis. Richey’s Market is the only undefeated team remaining in Zone Three American Legion ball. Kevin Warren was tagged for the loss on the mound, Ryan Hansen threw a complete game with four strikeouts and gave up five hits for the win. Matt Fritz and Bryce Weidman each doubled for the ‘Blasters who are back on the diamond this evening at five against the Withnell Dodgers in Florence. That game will air on Coast Radio Sports beginning at 4:45.
Northwest League Baseball:
Highly touted Matt Davidson went 2-for-2 with a home run to lead the Yakima Bears to a 6-5 win over the Eugene Emeralds last night in Central Washington. Considered one of the top high school hitters in the recent Major League Baseball draft, Davidson was picked 35th overall by the Arizona Diamondbacks. The third baseman showed Eugene why he merited such attention, reaching base in all five of his trips to the plate last night. The two teams continue their five game series tonight in Yakima.
The final pieces of the Port of Siuslaw’s new transient dock are being put in place. When the work is complete, Port of Siuslaw Manager Mark Freeman says it will wrap up about a decade and a half of planning and fund-raising for the $1.5-million project.
210 – “It’s been in gestation, figuratively speaking, for about 14 years or so, from the first set of appropriations. But it takes a long time to put together funding.”
If the gestation period was 14 years, that means labor pains for the replacement of the Maple Street Landing and 720-feet of float docks began several months ago.
211 – “It’s been more than several months and if anyone has done a home construction project, there’s always going to be delays.”
Initially, Freeman had hoped to have everything complete by this spring but he’s not really surprised at the delays that have combined to push that off.
212 – “Late July for completion, for final hookup of everything. There’s electrification, there’s hookup of water lines, there’s also a new pump-out.”
The work will coincide with completion of the new ice facility. All of the improvements, he said, should make Florence an attractive draw both for commercial vessels and touring cruisers. Freeman also said the Port of Siuslaw investment in the entire improvement project will amount to less than $100-thousand… with state and federal funds combining to contribute the other $1.4-million.
Dunes City tightened its collective belt yesterday, but two city councilors say it may not be tight enough. The 09-10 budget was approved in a special midday session. Voting no were Rebecca Ruede and Jaime Mills. Mills expressed concern the city, which relies on user fees, grant funding and pass-throughs from other agencies, may not have enough money to support the staff at city hall. Mayor Eric Hauptmann (HOWPT-mun) countered that. He said they’ve budgeted conservatively and staff understands they’ll have to watch expenses. He also said Dunes City would not be able to provide services by using volunteers.
The national average price for a gallon of regular unleaded leveled off this week at $2.68. That’s after nearly two months of daily increases. In Oregon, the average went up by three cents this past week to $2.81 a gallon while in Florence, the increase was six cents to $2.70 a gallon. Marie Dodds with Triple-A of Oregon says she expects prices to hold steady or possibly decrease slightly over the next several weeks as wholesale prices are expected to do the same.
Jesse Owens will be appearing at Eugene’s Historic Hayward Field today. The documentary, “Jesse Owens Returns to Berlin”, containing archival footage of the legendary runner at the 1936 Olympics, will be shown on the ‘Trackvision’ screen at Hayward during the final practice session before tomorrow’s opening of the USA Outdoor Track and Field Championships. The screening begins at 5:00, it’s free and open to the public.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
American Legion Baseball:
Nathan Williams’ walk-off three-run homer in the bottom of the eighth inning made it a ten-run difference, clinching an 11-1 Richey’s victory over the Three Rivers Sandblasters last night in Corvallis. Richey’s Market is the only undefeated team remaining in Zone Three American Legion ball. Kevin Warren was tagged for the loss on the mound, Ryan Hansen threw a complete game with four strikeouts and gave up five hits for the win. Matt Fritz and Bryce Weidman each doubled for the ‘Blasters who are back on the diamond this evening at five against the Withnell Dodgers in Florence. That game will air on Coast Radio Sports beginning at 4:45.
Northwest League Baseball:
Highly touted Matt Davidson went 2-for-2 with a home run to lead the Yakima Bears to a 6-5 win over the Eugene Emeralds last night in Central Washington. Considered one of the top high school hitters in the recent Major League Baseball draft, Davidson was picked 35th overall by the Arizona Diamondbacks. The third baseman showed Eugene why he merited such attention, reaching base in all five of his trips to the plate last night. The two teams continue their five game series tonight in Yakima.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Planning commission to consider approval of Ocean Dunes housing and Wyndham extension. Bear lady speaks out, food share volunteers sought.
City recommends approval of Ocean Dunes housing plan…
The public comment period has been closed and the Florence Planning Commission will deliberate this evening on a request for preliminary approval for a 97-unit planned unit development on the south end of Ocean Dunes Golf Links. Access for the 29-acre, two-phase plan would come primarily through an existing neighborhood and that’s drawn opposition from neighbors who say there’s enough traffic on their streets already. Developers say the existing streets were designed and built with the possibility in mind that they would eventually serve as access streets for this development. The Ocean Dunes proposal has been scaled back slightly. A third phase covering eight acres and containing 23 units has been withdrawn for now. The staff report drawn up by the City of Florence is endorsing approval of the plan, saying it meets all applicable codes and requirements. Several conditions of approval are included in that endorsement, including a requirement that construction access for both phases be routed either through Three Rivers Casino or city property to the northwest, keeping heavy trucks off neighborhood streets. The Planning Commission meets at Florence City Hall at seven pm this evening.
Florence Planning Commissioners will consider an extension this evening on an approval granted last year for a 120-unit time share resort. The Wyndham Timeshare was highly touted at the time as being a possible economic boon to the core downtown area when first proposed. Economic considerations caused the New Jersey based company to withdraw those plans last fall and opt out of plans to purchase the property across from the Florence Events Center. The landowners, Aspen Florence LLC purchased the approval rights and have asked for the extension.
The woman convicted in Lincoln County earlier this month of disturbing wildlife by feeding several bears near her Yachats River home spoke up in her defense last week. Karen Noyes said she missed the final day of her trial because she was sick and not because she left on vacation as had been reported in some press accounts. Noyes also said a neighbor never told her to stop feeding the bears and actually encouraged her to continue the feeding. She also maintains a state wildlife official told her it was legal to feed bears… the same official she says, that ultimately testified against her.
If you look at the right time tomorrow morning, you just might see more real estate than usual. A series of extremely low tides along the Oregon Coast means tide pools, shipwrecks and even ‘ghost forests’ might be visible. Tides of minus three-feet are expected along the northern coast but, according to tables published by NOAA, they’ll be minus 2.1 feet on the Siuslaw and area beaches. Tomorrow’s low tide at Florence on the Siuslaw River is expected at 9:05 AM.
Got some time on your hands? Karen Lyn wants to help you use it up. Recent changes at Florence Food Share from a ‘food box’ pantry to more of a shopping experience means more volunteers are needed says the manager of that facility. Lyn says there are also volunteer opportunities in the ‘back of the house’ re-packing bulk foods and sorting donations. Florence Food Share assists as many as 600 households each month with emergency food rations. It’s at 2190 Spruce Street next to New Life Lutheran Church.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
American Legion Baseball:
The Three Rivers Sandblasters posted 19 hits in a 9-5 win over the Post Nine Highwaymen yesterday in Salem. Eddie Crowe had a triple and three singles… brother Joe Crowe settled for just three singles without the triple. Kyle Davis had two RBI for the ‘Blasters on two doubles. He also picked up the win in relief, coming in for starter Trevor Roberts in the seventh inning. Drew Thomas took the loss for Post 9, his second against Three Rivers.
Northwest League Baseball:
Vincent Belnome had a double, a homer and three RBI to lead the Eugene Emeralds to a 7-5 win over the Salem-Keizer Volcanoes. Jason Codiroli and Chadd Hartman also homered for the Emeralds, who scored three runs in the first and never trailed.
On The Schedule:
The Sandblasters are in Corvallis this evening against Richie’s Market. The Emeralds begin their first road trip of the season this evening when they open up a five game series against the Yakima Bears.
The public comment period has been closed and the Florence Planning Commission will deliberate this evening on a request for preliminary approval for a 97-unit planned unit development on the south end of Ocean Dunes Golf Links. Access for the 29-acre, two-phase plan would come primarily through an existing neighborhood and that’s drawn opposition from neighbors who say there’s enough traffic on their streets already. Developers say the existing streets were designed and built with the possibility in mind that they would eventually serve as access streets for this development. The Ocean Dunes proposal has been scaled back slightly. A third phase covering eight acres and containing 23 units has been withdrawn for now. The staff report drawn up by the City of Florence is endorsing approval of the plan, saying it meets all applicable codes and requirements. Several conditions of approval are included in that endorsement, including a requirement that construction access for both phases be routed either through Three Rivers Casino or city property to the northwest, keeping heavy trucks off neighborhood streets. The Planning Commission meets at Florence City Hall at seven pm this evening.
Florence Planning Commissioners will consider an extension this evening on an approval granted last year for a 120-unit time share resort. The Wyndham Timeshare was highly touted at the time as being a possible economic boon to the core downtown area when first proposed. Economic considerations caused the New Jersey based company to withdraw those plans last fall and opt out of plans to purchase the property across from the Florence Events Center. The landowners, Aspen Florence LLC purchased the approval rights and have asked for the extension.
The woman convicted in Lincoln County earlier this month of disturbing wildlife by feeding several bears near her Yachats River home spoke up in her defense last week. Karen Noyes said she missed the final day of her trial because she was sick and not because she left on vacation as had been reported in some press accounts. Noyes also said a neighbor never told her to stop feeding the bears and actually encouraged her to continue the feeding. She also maintains a state wildlife official told her it was legal to feed bears… the same official she says, that ultimately testified against her.
If you look at the right time tomorrow morning, you just might see more real estate than usual. A series of extremely low tides along the Oregon Coast means tide pools, shipwrecks and even ‘ghost forests’ might be visible. Tides of minus three-feet are expected along the northern coast but, according to tables published by NOAA, they’ll be minus 2.1 feet on the Siuslaw and area beaches. Tomorrow’s low tide at Florence on the Siuslaw River is expected at 9:05 AM.
Got some time on your hands? Karen Lyn wants to help you use it up. Recent changes at Florence Food Share from a ‘food box’ pantry to more of a shopping experience means more volunteers are needed says the manager of that facility. Lyn says there are also volunteer opportunities in the ‘back of the house’ re-packing bulk foods and sorting donations. Florence Food Share assists as many as 600 households each month with emergency food rations. It’s at 2190 Spruce Street next to New Life Lutheran Church.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
American Legion Baseball:
The Three Rivers Sandblasters posted 19 hits in a 9-5 win over the Post Nine Highwaymen yesterday in Salem. Eddie Crowe had a triple and three singles… brother Joe Crowe settled for just three singles without the triple. Kyle Davis had two RBI for the ‘Blasters on two doubles. He also picked up the win in relief, coming in for starter Trevor Roberts in the seventh inning. Drew Thomas took the loss for Post 9, his second against Three Rivers.
Northwest League Baseball:
Vincent Belnome had a double, a homer and three RBI to lead the Eugene Emeralds to a 7-5 win over the Salem-Keizer Volcanoes. Jason Codiroli and Chadd Hartman also homered for the Emeralds, who scored three runs in the first and never trailed.
On The Schedule:
The Sandblasters are in Corvallis this evening against Richie’s Market. The Emeralds begin their first road trip of the season this evening when they open up a five game series against the Yakima Bears.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Investment deal sours, two rescued, Dunes City budget on tap and lawmakers could wrap up this weekend
Investment deal goes sour…
The son of the man being targeted by fellow investors says the real culprit is in Southern California. Don Huntingdon says the anger, as well as two lawsuits directed at Doug Huntingdon over what could ultimately exceed $23-million in local losses is misdirected. The younger Huntingdon acknowledged his father did act as an agent for Sunburst Properties, selling interests in second mortgages. But he too has lost most of his retirement savings in the deal. Don Huntingdon said interest payments came like clockwork, twice a month for many years, but when Jim Borstelman, the owner of Sunburst, said all of the trust deed instruments failed at virtually the same time, it was time for some closer inspection.
215 -- "We all started looking around. We meaning me and other investors started doing some independent noodling. And it didn't take but a couple of days before we realized, you know, that we'd been duped."
Huntingdon said once he determined that something had gone seriously wrong, he called together all the local investors to share what they had learned before going to authorities.
216 -- "I put together the complaint. I am the one that called the meeting of all investors at our home to advise them so everyone was on the same page as to what was happening and what was going to happen. And, I'm the one that day that got it to the FBI in Portland."
The FBI does not confirm nor deny an investigation in the matter, but Huntingdon says he has verification. He adds most of the investors have been working together while only a handful have been targeting his father.
The U.S. Coast Guard rescued two men from a fishing boat early yesterday morning. Petty Officer Kelly Parker says the crew aboard the 36-foot “Hot Tuna” reported they were taking on water about 1,000 yards from the Siuslaw River entrance at six am. A helicopter crew from North Bend and a pair of motor lifeboats from the Siuslaw River Station responded. Attempts to keep the boat afloat were unsuccessful and the two crew-members were transferred to one of the lifeboats. The coast guard did not release their names.
The Dunes City Council will be meeting in a special session tomorrow afternoon. They’ll open with a private executive session to consult with legal counsel regarding litigation. Following that, however, they’ll hold a public hearing on the coming year’s budget, then discuss appointments to two city committees. That meeting, 12:15 tomorrow afternoon at Dunes City Hall is open to the public with the exception of the executive session.
Tenth District Representative Jean Cowan says the legislature is still on track to complete their work by the end of this week. But, failing that, she adds, they will adjourn no later than June 30th. Lawmakers approved the largest piece of the general fund budget Friday afternoon by setting aside $5.8-billion for K-through-12 education. There’s a possibility that another $200-million could be added in the long run if economic conditions improve. The Governor has said he would veto any bill that authorized more than $5.6-billion.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
Sandblasters Baseball:
The Three Rivers Sandblasters used three pitchers and came from behind for an 8-5 league victory over the Titans in Springfield Friday evening. Three Rivers led until the bottom of the eighth, but three runs in the top of the ninth preserved the victory. Saturday, Bryce Weidman threw a complete game with 11 strikeouts and allowed only three hits as Three Rivers blanked the Mid Valley Rockets 3-nothing.
The Sandblasters are back on the diamond again today at Corban College in Salem against the Post-9 Highwaymen.
Northwest League…
The Eugene Emeralds opened up what could be their final season at Eugene’s Civic Stadium with a pair of losses this weekend. Salem-Keizer came out on top in Saturday’s game 5-4, then again yesterday afternoon 8 – 4. The two teams wrap up their three-game series tonight in Eugene.
The son of the man being targeted by fellow investors says the real culprit is in Southern California. Don Huntingdon says the anger, as well as two lawsuits directed at Doug Huntingdon over what could ultimately exceed $23-million in local losses is misdirected. The younger Huntingdon acknowledged his father did act as an agent for Sunburst Properties, selling interests in second mortgages. But he too has lost most of his retirement savings in the deal. Don Huntingdon said interest payments came like clockwork, twice a month for many years, but when Jim Borstelman, the owner of Sunburst, said all of the trust deed instruments failed at virtually the same time, it was time for some closer inspection.
215 -- "We all started looking around. We meaning me and other investors started doing some independent noodling. And it didn't take but a couple of days before we realized, you know, that we'd been duped."
Huntingdon said once he determined that something had gone seriously wrong, he called together all the local investors to share what they had learned before going to authorities.
216 -- "I put together the complaint. I am the one that called the meeting of all investors at our home to advise them so everyone was on the same page as to what was happening and what was going to happen. And, I'm the one that day that got it to the FBI in Portland."
The FBI does not confirm nor deny an investigation in the matter, but Huntingdon says he has verification. He adds most of the investors have been working together while only a handful have been targeting his father.
The U.S. Coast Guard rescued two men from a fishing boat early yesterday morning. Petty Officer Kelly Parker says the crew aboard the 36-foot “Hot Tuna” reported they were taking on water about 1,000 yards from the Siuslaw River entrance at six am. A helicopter crew from North Bend and a pair of motor lifeboats from the Siuslaw River Station responded. Attempts to keep the boat afloat were unsuccessful and the two crew-members were transferred to one of the lifeboats. The coast guard did not release their names.
The Dunes City Council will be meeting in a special session tomorrow afternoon. They’ll open with a private executive session to consult with legal counsel regarding litigation. Following that, however, they’ll hold a public hearing on the coming year’s budget, then discuss appointments to two city committees. That meeting, 12:15 tomorrow afternoon at Dunes City Hall is open to the public with the exception of the executive session.
Tenth District Representative Jean Cowan says the legislature is still on track to complete their work by the end of this week. But, failing that, she adds, they will adjourn no later than June 30th. Lawmakers approved the largest piece of the general fund budget Friday afternoon by setting aside $5.8-billion for K-through-12 education. There’s a possibility that another $200-million could be added in the long run if economic conditions improve. The Governor has said he would veto any bill that authorized more than $5.6-billion.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
Sandblasters Baseball:
The Three Rivers Sandblasters used three pitchers and came from behind for an 8-5 league victory over the Titans in Springfield Friday evening. Three Rivers led until the bottom of the eighth, but three runs in the top of the ninth preserved the victory. Saturday, Bryce Weidman threw a complete game with 11 strikeouts and allowed only three hits as Three Rivers blanked the Mid Valley Rockets 3-nothing.
The Sandblasters are back on the diamond again today at Corban College in Salem against the Post-9 Highwaymen.
Northwest League…
The Eugene Emeralds opened up what could be their final season at Eugene’s Civic Stadium with a pair of losses this weekend. Salem-Keizer came out on top in Saturday’s game 5-4, then again yesterday afternoon 8 – 4. The two teams wrap up their three-game series tonight in Eugene.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Casino challenge a waste and misdirected; Gov and Leg squaring off, more wilderness and plenty of chips.
Tribal Leader says legal fight has no merit…
The Oregon Supreme Court decision announced yesterday is concerning to tribal leaders, but they say it will have no impact and is misdirected.
210 – “It’s not going to have any effect on Three Rivers Casino.”
Bob Garcia is the council chair of the Confederated Tribes of the Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians.
211 – “This is, in many ways, you know I personally consider this a waste of tax payers’ money to take this issue on.”
Garcia adds that the method being used to challenge Three Rivers Casino’s legality is the wrong one. Even if opponents are successful in winning their argument that the state and tribal agreement violates the Oregon Constitution, gaming will go on. That’s because federal law allows tribes to do anything that states do. Garcia says Oregon allows video poker terminals, Keno, and other forms of public gambling.
212 – “When people talk about how would someone stop the tribes from being able to game at Three Rivers Casino and Hotel it’s a very, very simple answer to the question. The thing is the residents of Oregon would have to decide to abolish the Oregon Lottery.”
Casino opponents say the battle that’s been going on for six years has been about getting a fair hearing in court. Yesterday’s announcement paves the way for them to make their case in Lane County Circuit Court later this year.
Gov. Kulongoski's veto threat failed to stop the Legislature's budget committee from advancing a $5.8 billion plan to fund Oregon schools. The governor wants to keep an extra $200 million tucked away, just in case the economy doesn't improve in the coming months. Legislative leaders say they have the votes to override a veto if need be. The state Senate is expected to vote on the education budget today.
Oregon has already gained thousands of new acres of federal wilderness this year. Now there's a push for more. Three news bills would extend federal protection to parts of the Lower Rogue River, the Oregon Caves and the remote Devil's Staircase area on the central Oregon coast near Reedsport.
213 – “These things are relatively non-controversial; you've got the Senator supporting it and the local House member, which helps a lot. I wouldn't expect these to take years - it could take a year or two."
David Dreher, working with the group Campaign for America’s Wilderness says he doesn’t expect any major problems in gaining approval.
It’s getting deep in Reedsport… the pile of chips that is. The Oregon Divisional Chainsaw Sculpting Championships began yesterday and will continue through Sunday afternoon. Organizers say the daily 75-minute “quick carve” competitions draw large crowds and have become favorites. Carving begins at eight each day, those quick-carves are at 10:45 until noon and then a sculpture auction will be offered at 5:30 today and tomorrow, with the final sale at 12:30 Sunday afternoon. The chainsaw sculptors also work on the ‘masterpiece’ carving twice daily.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
It’s not too early to begin thinking about Pac-Ten football. The Oregon Ducks will host seven home games this coming season and a limited number of season tickets go on sale today. The cost for all remaining tickets is $370… but some of them require an additional donation to the Duck Athletic Fund. The Ducks open up at home September 12th against Purdue. They’ll host five Pac-Ten teams including USC and Oregon State.
On the Schedule…
The Three Rivers Sandblasters return to action at Hamlin Middle School in Springfield against the Titans this evening. Game time is at five o’clock and the game will be broadcast on FM 106.9 beginning at 4:45. Saturday the ‘Blasters will be in Albany against the Mid-Valley Rockets at five.
The Eugene Emeralds kick off their 2009 Northwest League season at home tomorrow against the Salem-Keizer Volcanoes at 7:05. The two teams meet again Sunday at four.
The Oregon Supreme Court decision announced yesterday is concerning to tribal leaders, but they say it will have no impact and is misdirected.
210 – “It’s not going to have any effect on Three Rivers Casino.”
Bob Garcia is the council chair of the Confederated Tribes of the Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians.
211 – “This is, in many ways, you know I personally consider this a waste of tax payers’ money to take this issue on.”
Garcia adds that the method being used to challenge Three Rivers Casino’s legality is the wrong one. Even if opponents are successful in winning their argument that the state and tribal agreement violates the Oregon Constitution, gaming will go on. That’s because federal law allows tribes to do anything that states do. Garcia says Oregon allows video poker terminals, Keno, and other forms of public gambling.
212 – “When people talk about how would someone stop the tribes from being able to game at Three Rivers Casino and Hotel it’s a very, very simple answer to the question. The thing is the residents of Oregon would have to decide to abolish the Oregon Lottery.”
Casino opponents say the battle that’s been going on for six years has been about getting a fair hearing in court. Yesterday’s announcement paves the way for them to make their case in Lane County Circuit Court later this year.
Gov. Kulongoski's veto threat failed to stop the Legislature's budget committee from advancing a $5.8 billion plan to fund Oregon schools. The governor wants to keep an extra $200 million tucked away, just in case the economy doesn't improve in the coming months. Legislative leaders say they have the votes to override a veto if need be. The state Senate is expected to vote on the education budget today.
Oregon has already gained thousands of new acres of federal wilderness this year. Now there's a push for more. Three news bills would extend federal protection to parts of the Lower Rogue River, the Oregon Caves and the remote Devil's Staircase area on the central Oregon coast near Reedsport.
213 – “These things are relatively non-controversial; you've got the Senator supporting it and the local House member, which helps a lot. I wouldn't expect these to take years - it could take a year or two."
David Dreher, working with the group Campaign for America’s Wilderness says he doesn’t expect any major problems in gaining approval.
It’s getting deep in Reedsport… the pile of chips that is. The Oregon Divisional Chainsaw Sculpting Championships began yesterday and will continue through Sunday afternoon. Organizers say the daily 75-minute “quick carve” competitions draw large crowds and have become favorites. Carving begins at eight each day, those quick-carves are at 10:45 until noon and then a sculpture auction will be offered at 5:30 today and tomorrow, with the final sale at 12:30 Sunday afternoon. The chainsaw sculptors also work on the ‘masterpiece’ carving twice daily.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
It’s not too early to begin thinking about Pac-Ten football. The Oregon Ducks will host seven home games this coming season and a limited number of season tickets go on sale today. The cost for all remaining tickets is $370… but some of them require an additional donation to the Duck Athletic Fund. The Ducks open up at home September 12th against Purdue. They’ll host five Pac-Ten teams including USC and Oregon State.
On the Schedule…
The Three Rivers Sandblasters return to action at Hamlin Middle School in Springfield against the Titans this evening. Game time is at five o’clock and the game will be broadcast on FM 106.9 beginning at 4:45. Saturday the ‘Blasters will be in Albany against the Mid-Valley Rockets at five.
The Eugene Emeralds kick off their 2009 Northwest League season at home tomorrow against the Salem-Keizer Volcanoes at 7:05. The two teams meet again Sunday at four.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
BCC does turnaround on jail beds; Ternyik to be honored at Capitol, Oregon Supreme Court supports PACT
PACT will get their day in court…
A group of Florence area residents will have their day in court. The Oregon Supreme Court released a ruling this morning that members of an anti-casino group, People Against a Casino Town, also known as PACT, can present arguments in Lane County Circuit Court supporting their belief that an agreement between the State of Oregon and the Confederated Tribes of the Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians violates an Oregon Constitutional provision banning casino gambling. The decision could have major ramifications for the casino gaming industry in Oregon. Former Governor John Kitzhaber signed the initial compact allowing the Three Rivers Casino shortly before leaving office in 2003, an agreement that was later revised and updated by his successor, Governor Kulongoski.
Board of County Commissioners approve jail beds in turnaround
The final adoption won’t come until next week, but the Lane County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously yesterday to allocate more money for public safety and approved funding for an additional 84-jail beds. Commission Chair Peter Sorenson said the approval was due to several factors including community input. The County Commission has been under pressure to release some of the $3.2-million in federal revenue they set aside this year. That pressure came from county residents, other government representatives and even members of Oregon’s congressional delegation. U.S. Senator Ron Wyden praised the decision to add back the jail beds, saying it would help keep violent criminals off the streets. Wyden added that he and Representative Peter DeFazio will now be able to tell their colleagues in Washington DC that the second largest recipient of county payments funding is spending that money in the way it was intended. The board of commissioners will take final action on the budget next Wednesday.
Most of the people that have seen the bronze sculpture on display this week in the galleria of the State Capitol have no idea who the man in the moose-skin jacket with the tomahawk is. Many of his neighbors recognize him as Florence resident Wilbur Ternyik. According to Onno Husing with the Oregon Coastal Zone Management Association the former Florence Mayor and Port of Siuslaw Commissioner played a largely unheralded role in the development of Oregon’s land-use planning system.
200 – “If Wilbur hadn’t done what he had done, and if the OCC&DC had really bogged down and not been able to make progress in 1971 and 1972, there would have been no Senate Bill 100 in 1973 which created Oregon’s Land Use Planning System.”
Husing said Ternyik worked tirelessly to organize the old Oregon Coastal Conservation and Development Commission. The Chair of Oregon’s Coastal Caucus, Senator Betsy Johnson will be joined by other legislative leaders during a 1:30 ceremony at the Capitol building. Husing says the plan is for Ternyik to also be introduced on the floor of the Oregon House of Representatives.
The Lane County Veteran Services office is on the move… Lane County public information office Amber Fossen says they’ll remain in the Charnelton Place Building in downtown Eugene, but as of this afternoon they’ll be one floor higher than yesterday. Fossen says it’s a temporary move, expected to last about a year, as renovations to their permanent space are completed. She also said the office’s phone number will not change.
A discussion on the power issues in the northwest, along the Oregon Coast and in the Florence area in particular will be on the program today during the noon meeting of the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce. Central Lincoln PUD’s Mike Sleight is the featured speaker. He’ll talk about how electrical usage is determined and billed. Sleight will also talk about rebates and incentives aimed at helping reduce electrical consumption. The Florence Area Chamber of Commerce Noon Forum at Three Rivers Casino is open to the public.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
The wheels came off early last night… The Withnell Dodgers jumped to an early 12-nothing lead, but the Three Rivers Sandblasters seemed to be poised for a comeback. The ‘Blasters mounted a five run rally in the fourth inning, but Withnell came back with nine unanswered runs and cruised to an eventual 21-5 victory at Jiggs Dodson Field. Kyle Davis was tagged with the loss after being driven from the mound in the third inning. J-R Phillips earned the win, pitching the complete seven innings for Withnell.
The Sandblasters have the night off. They’ll be back on the diamond tomorrow at Hamlin Middle School in Springfield against the Titans.
A group of Florence area residents will have their day in court. The Oregon Supreme Court released a ruling this morning that members of an anti-casino group, People Against a Casino Town, also known as PACT, can present arguments in Lane County Circuit Court supporting their belief that an agreement between the State of Oregon and the Confederated Tribes of the Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians violates an Oregon Constitutional provision banning casino gambling. The decision could have major ramifications for the casino gaming industry in Oregon. Former Governor John Kitzhaber signed the initial compact allowing the Three Rivers Casino shortly before leaving office in 2003, an agreement that was later revised and updated by his successor, Governor Kulongoski.
Board of County Commissioners approve jail beds in turnaround
The final adoption won’t come until next week, but the Lane County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously yesterday to allocate more money for public safety and approved funding for an additional 84-jail beds. Commission Chair Peter Sorenson said the approval was due to several factors including community input. The County Commission has been under pressure to release some of the $3.2-million in federal revenue they set aside this year. That pressure came from county residents, other government representatives and even members of Oregon’s congressional delegation. U.S. Senator Ron Wyden praised the decision to add back the jail beds, saying it would help keep violent criminals off the streets. Wyden added that he and Representative Peter DeFazio will now be able to tell their colleagues in Washington DC that the second largest recipient of county payments funding is spending that money in the way it was intended. The board of commissioners will take final action on the budget next Wednesday.
Most of the people that have seen the bronze sculpture on display this week in the galleria of the State Capitol have no idea who the man in the moose-skin jacket with the tomahawk is. Many of his neighbors recognize him as Florence resident Wilbur Ternyik. According to Onno Husing with the Oregon Coastal Zone Management Association the former Florence Mayor and Port of Siuslaw Commissioner played a largely unheralded role in the development of Oregon’s land-use planning system.
200 – “If Wilbur hadn’t done what he had done, and if the OCC&DC had really bogged down and not been able to make progress in 1971 and 1972, there would have been no Senate Bill 100 in 1973 which created Oregon’s Land Use Planning System.”
Husing said Ternyik worked tirelessly to organize the old Oregon Coastal Conservation and Development Commission. The Chair of Oregon’s Coastal Caucus, Senator Betsy Johnson will be joined by other legislative leaders during a 1:30 ceremony at the Capitol building. Husing says the plan is for Ternyik to also be introduced on the floor of the Oregon House of Representatives.
The Lane County Veteran Services office is on the move… Lane County public information office Amber Fossen says they’ll remain in the Charnelton Place Building in downtown Eugene, but as of this afternoon they’ll be one floor higher than yesterday. Fossen says it’s a temporary move, expected to last about a year, as renovations to their permanent space are completed. She also said the office’s phone number will not change.
A discussion on the power issues in the northwest, along the Oregon Coast and in the Florence area in particular will be on the program today during the noon meeting of the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce. Central Lincoln PUD’s Mike Sleight is the featured speaker. He’ll talk about how electrical usage is determined and billed. Sleight will also talk about rebates and incentives aimed at helping reduce electrical consumption. The Florence Area Chamber of Commerce Noon Forum at Three Rivers Casino is open to the public.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
The wheels came off early last night… The Withnell Dodgers jumped to an early 12-nothing lead, but the Three Rivers Sandblasters seemed to be poised for a comeback. The ‘Blasters mounted a five run rally in the fourth inning, but Withnell came back with nine unanswered runs and cruised to an eventual 21-5 victory at Jiggs Dodson Field. Kyle Davis was tagged with the loss after being driven from the mound in the third inning. J-R Phillips earned the win, pitching the complete seven innings for Withnell.
The Sandblasters have the night off. They’ll be back on the diamond tomorrow at Hamlin Middle School in Springfield against the Titans.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Oregon unemployment rate peaks, gas ticks up, crabbers participate in dead zone study and free tickets.
Unemployment rate reaches historical high…
There’s good news and bad news when it comes to Oregon’s record unemployment rate. First, the bad news. The state’s chief economist, Tom Potiowsky (puh-TAO-skee), says the 12.4-percent rate, up from 11.8-percent in April, will likely “top out in the 13-percent range” sometime in early 2010. There are currently about 240-thousand Oregonians actively seeking employment according to estimates by the Oregon Employment Division. That’s twice the number at this time last year. The good news though, is that there are some encouraging signs. There was only a net loss of about 100 jobs across the state in May, the smallest decrease in quite some time. Economists noted that seasonal hiring that began last month helped offset job losses in other sectors of the economy. Oregon’s unemployment rate is a full three percent higher than the national average and is the second highest in the country, right behind Michigan.
Researchers at Oregon State University are working with ten Oregon Dungeness commercial crabbers to gather information off the coast this season that could improve knowledge of “dead zones” those oxygen depleted areas within the ocean. The crabbers have been deploying their pots with sensors attached that measure water temperature and dissolved oxygen levels at various depths. Scientists hope the information gathered will help them to better understand and predict the “dead zones”.
The average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline in Florence increased by four cents this week to $2.64. Meanwhile, the statewide average as calculated by Triple-A went up nine cents in the same period. It’s now at $2.78 a gallon. Oregon pump prices are up 60-percent since the start of 2009 says Marie Dodds with Oregon Triple-A. She adds the increases have come primarily as the cost of crude oil has recovered since dropping by more than $100-per-barrell at the end of last year. Despite the historic climb Dodds expects prices to remain well below where they were a year ago. That’s when the local average peaked at $4.20 a gallon.
Three Rivers Casino and Hotel has set aside about 150 free tickets to a concert later this month featuring the Bluzmen (blues-men) with only one requirement.
205 – “They volunteer in the Florence area. That could be here at Peace Harbor Health, Boys and Girls Club, any of our services like fire, police, coast guard, any of those and they are eligible for one ticket.”
Laurie Grimmett said it’s all part of Three Rivers’ fifth anniversary celebration and their way of saying thanks to the many people who offer their time and skills to the community. Grimmett also said the tickets for the June 26th concert are moving quickly. As of yesterday nearly half of the allotment had been spoken for.
206 – “call 541-999-9997 and I will take down their name and number and put them in for an order and they can pick up their tickets at will-call the day of the performance.”
The show is a ‘high-energy tribute’ to the Blues Brothers, the band created by Dan Akroyd and John Belushi. The Bluzmen appeared at the Casino earlier this year.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
It was a different kind of game last night, but the results were the same with the Three Rivers Sandblasters coming out on top, 3-1 over the Springfield Titans in Florence. Bryce Weidman came out strong in his 2009 Legion debut, throwing eight complete innings with six strikeouts and only one walk. He gave up five hits including a pair of doubles to Springfield’s Matt Mirano. Zach Laxague continued his ‘extra base’ hitting streak with two doubles and Travis Iverson came through in the sixth inning with a key two run single to break a scoreless tie.
The Sandblasters home stand closes out this evening at Jiggs Dodson field against Salem’s Withnell Dodgers at five o’clock. That game will air on Coast Radio Sports.
There’s good news and bad news when it comes to Oregon’s record unemployment rate. First, the bad news. The state’s chief economist, Tom Potiowsky (puh-TAO-skee), says the 12.4-percent rate, up from 11.8-percent in April, will likely “top out in the 13-percent range” sometime in early 2010. There are currently about 240-thousand Oregonians actively seeking employment according to estimates by the Oregon Employment Division. That’s twice the number at this time last year. The good news though, is that there are some encouraging signs. There was only a net loss of about 100 jobs across the state in May, the smallest decrease in quite some time. Economists noted that seasonal hiring that began last month helped offset job losses in other sectors of the economy. Oregon’s unemployment rate is a full three percent higher than the national average and is the second highest in the country, right behind Michigan.
Researchers at Oregon State University are working with ten Oregon Dungeness commercial crabbers to gather information off the coast this season that could improve knowledge of “dead zones” those oxygen depleted areas within the ocean. The crabbers have been deploying their pots with sensors attached that measure water temperature and dissolved oxygen levels at various depths. Scientists hope the information gathered will help them to better understand and predict the “dead zones”.
The average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline in Florence increased by four cents this week to $2.64. Meanwhile, the statewide average as calculated by Triple-A went up nine cents in the same period. It’s now at $2.78 a gallon. Oregon pump prices are up 60-percent since the start of 2009 says Marie Dodds with Oregon Triple-A. She adds the increases have come primarily as the cost of crude oil has recovered since dropping by more than $100-per-barrell at the end of last year. Despite the historic climb Dodds expects prices to remain well below where they were a year ago. That’s when the local average peaked at $4.20 a gallon.
Three Rivers Casino and Hotel has set aside about 150 free tickets to a concert later this month featuring the Bluzmen (blues-men) with only one requirement.
205 – “They volunteer in the Florence area. That could be here at Peace Harbor Health, Boys and Girls Club, any of our services like fire, police, coast guard, any of those and they are eligible for one ticket.”
Laurie Grimmett said it’s all part of Three Rivers’ fifth anniversary celebration and their way of saying thanks to the many people who offer their time and skills to the community. Grimmett also said the tickets for the June 26th concert are moving quickly. As of yesterday nearly half of the allotment had been spoken for.
206 – “call 541-999-9997 and I will take down their name and number and put them in for an order and they can pick up their tickets at will-call the day of the performance.”
The show is a ‘high-energy tribute’ to the Blues Brothers, the band created by Dan Akroyd and John Belushi. The Bluzmen appeared at the Casino earlier this year.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
It was a different kind of game last night, but the results were the same with the Three Rivers Sandblasters coming out on top, 3-1 over the Springfield Titans in Florence. Bryce Weidman came out strong in his 2009 Legion debut, throwing eight complete innings with six strikeouts and only one walk. He gave up five hits including a pair of doubles to Springfield’s Matt Mirano. Zach Laxague continued his ‘extra base’ hitting streak with two doubles and Travis Iverson came through in the sixth inning with a key two run single to break a scoreless tie.
The Sandblasters home stand closes out this evening at Jiggs Dodson field against Salem’s Withnell Dodgers at five o’clock. That game will air on Coast Radio Sports.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Burning season ends, minor quakes recorded, Peace Harbor boss moving on, and a reward is posted.
You may have missed it… burning season in Lane County came to an end yesterday. That means, until at least October First, no open burning is allowed anywhere in Lane County… with just a few small exceptions.
216 – “Warming, cooking fires using split wood, either using barbecue pits or fire rings, those types of things. That’s the only type of burning that’s allowed.”
Siuslaw Valley Fire and Rescue’s Sean Barrett says the current burning restriction is an air quality matter and is regulated by the Lane Regional Air Protection Agency. It’s not related to fire season which is governed by the Oregon Department of Forestry. Barrett says cooler weather has lessened the chances of extreme fire danger in the near term:
217 – “Probably going to be normal to a little abnormal year for fire season which means a little worse fire season.”
Fire season itself won’t be declared until weather conditions warrant it.
Peace Harbor Hospital CEO Jim Barnhart is beginning a transition that will eventually take him away from Florence. Barnhart will lead the planning and development of a new critical access hospital and medical center on San Juan Island near Seattle. In a statement released to Peace Health employees last week Barnhart said the workload at San Juan will be light for the next several months, but by next spring it will require more attention. He expects to resign as Peace Harbor CEO and Chief Mission Officer by the end of June next year and make the move to Washington.
A series of relatively small earthquakes rolled across the ocean floor off the Oregon Coast over the last two days. The series began Sunday afternoon with a minor 1.5 magnitude near Brookings. The largest: a 3.9 260-miles west-northwest of Bandon on Monday. Earlier in the day yesterday a 2.7 magnitude was recorded about a hundred miles west of Florence. Two other small quakes were recorded in the Crescent City, California area in the same time period.
About 50 traffic cones and two barricades ended up in the Siuslaw River beneath the Highway 101 Bridge a week ago. Siuslaw Stop Crime has posted a reward:
215 – “A reward of up to $500 for information leading to the arrest and arraignment of the person or the persons responsible for the dumping of the traffic cones into the Siuslaw River.”
Bruce Jarvis is the secretary of the group of local residents whose goal is to assist law enforcement agencies in the solving of crimes. Anonymous tips can be made at 800-333-8328.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
The Three Rivers Sandblasters held off the Post 9 Highwaymen 17 – 13 last night in a game that saw a total of 29 hits, five lead changes and eight pitchers. Willie Grader picked up the win in relief for Three Rivers, Drew Thomas the loss.
Zack Laxague had a solo triple in his first at bat to lead off the second inning, then added the final four runs of that same frame with a grand slam that gave the ‘Blasters a seemingly solid 8-3 lead.
The Highwaymen battled back and tied the game in the top of the third inning. Drew Rainwater put up a two-run homer in the bottom of the fourth to retake the lead for Three Rivers. Post 9 chipped away at the lead once again, tying it at 10-all in the top of the fifth and eventually going ahead with one run in the seventh.
But, the Sandblasters weren’t done. They batted around in the bottom of the inning and putting up seven runs to go ahead 17-11. Three of those runs came on a bases clearing 3 RBI double off the bat of Eddie Crowe. Post 9 came back with 2 runs in the top of the eighth inning to provide the final margin.
The Highwaymen put up 20 hits and committed three errors. Three Rivers had nine hits and six errors.
The Sandblasters home stand continues this evening with action at Jiggs Dodson Field at 5 o’clock against the Springfield Titans.
216 – “Warming, cooking fires using split wood, either using barbecue pits or fire rings, those types of things. That’s the only type of burning that’s allowed.”
Siuslaw Valley Fire and Rescue’s Sean Barrett says the current burning restriction is an air quality matter and is regulated by the Lane Regional Air Protection Agency. It’s not related to fire season which is governed by the Oregon Department of Forestry. Barrett says cooler weather has lessened the chances of extreme fire danger in the near term:
217 – “Probably going to be normal to a little abnormal year for fire season which means a little worse fire season.”
Fire season itself won’t be declared until weather conditions warrant it.
Peace Harbor Hospital CEO Jim Barnhart is beginning a transition that will eventually take him away from Florence. Barnhart will lead the planning and development of a new critical access hospital and medical center on San Juan Island near Seattle. In a statement released to Peace Health employees last week Barnhart said the workload at San Juan will be light for the next several months, but by next spring it will require more attention. He expects to resign as Peace Harbor CEO and Chief Mission Officer by the end of June next year and make the move to Washington.
A series of relatively small earthquakes rolled across the ocean floor off the Oregon Coast over the last two days. The series began Sunday afternoon with a minor 1.5 magnitude near Brookings. The largest: a 3.9 260-miles west-northwest of Bandon on Monday. Earlier in the day yesterday a 2.7 magnitude was recorded about a hundred miles west of Florence. Two other small quakes were recorded in the Crescent City, California area in the same time period.
About 50 traffic cones and two barricades ended up in the Siuslaw River beneath the Highway 101 Bridge a week ago. Siuslaw Stop Crime has posted a reward:
215 – “A reward of up to $500 for information leading to the arrest and arraignment of the person or the persons responsible for the dumping of the traffic cones into the Siuslaw River.”
Bruce Jarvis is the secretary of the group of local residents whose goal is to assist law enforcement agencies in the solving of crimes. Anonymous tips can be made at 800-333-8328.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
The Three Rivers Sandblasters held off the Post 9 Highwaymen 17 – 13 last night in a game that saw a total of 29 hits, five lead changes and eight pitchers. Willie Grader picked up the win in relief for Three Rivers, Drew Thomas the loss.
Zack Laxague had a solo triple in his first at bat to lead off the second inning, then added the final four runs of that same frame with a grand slam that gave the ‘Blasters a seemingly solid 8-3 lead.
The Highwaymen battled back and tied the game in the top of the third inning. Drew Rainwater put up a two-run homer in the bottom of the fourth to retake the lead for Three Rivers. Post 9 chipped away at the lead once again, tying it at 10-all in the top of the fifth and eventually going ahead with one run in the seventh.
But, the Sandblasters weren’t done. They batted around in the bottom of the inning and putting up seven runs to go ahead 17-11. Three of those runs came on a bases clearing 3 RBI double off the bat of Eddie Crowe. Post 9 came back with 2 runs in the top of the eighth inning to provide the final margin.
The Highwaymen put up 20 hits and committed three errors. Three Rivers had nine hits and six errors.
The Sandblasters home stand continues this evening with action at Jiggs Dodson Field at 5 o’clock against the Springfield Titans.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Water and sewer rates going up, wings and wheels a sucess, gala goers taste for food share
Water and waste-water rate increases could be finalized tonight…
The Florence City Council is being asked to take final action tonight on approving a 20-percent increase in waste-water rates and an accompanying hike of eight-percent for water rates. In addition, the council will most likely approve a $2-per-month fee that would be used to pay for street lighting. All told, residential utility customers in Florence that get water from the city will pay about $10-per month more beginning July First. The increased fees are as a result of higher operating costs according to Public Works Director Mike Miller who explained the potential increases to the council earlier this month.
The Council will also deal with several other important matters tonight. One of the final items on the agenda is the question of whether or not to rename Florence Garbage Dump Road. The access road to the Lane County Solid Waste Transfer Site also serves the Florence Area Humane Society. Some suggestions for new names include Estuary Drive, New Hope Lane, and Silver Lining Drive.
The council meets tonight at City Hall at seven.
Organizers say they’ll do it again. Yesterday’s first ever “Wings and Wheels’ at the Florence Municipal Airport. Two dozen different aircraft, about 75-classic autos and 30-or-so vintage military vehicles were on display along the flight-line as hundreds of visitors strolled around. The event was produced by the Oregon Coast Military Heritage Museum and it also included the observance of Flag Day.
Several hundred people were on hand for Saturday night’s Coastal Cuisine Gala to benefit Florence Food Share. Ticket sales were down, Food Share Manager Karen Lyn said there were only about a hundred tickets pre-sold but several walk-ins helped swell the crowd by the time doors opened. More than two dozen restaurants, wineries and breweries donated products for tasting during the three hour gala. The People’s Choice Award went to the Reedsport Coffee House for the second year in a row. The best ‘bite’ was judged to be Los Comprades Tacqueria and the best ‘sip’ came from Eola Hills Winery. The Prime Steak House at Three Rivers Casino was awarded the best ‘presentation’.
A Coast Guard helicopter from North Bend evacuated a man who suffered a head injury while playing basketball on a cruise ship Friday off the Oregon Coast. A Coast Guard spokesperson did not identify the 46-year old man but said he was plucked from the ship, 40-miles west of Florence, Friday afternoon and taken to River Bend Hospital in Springfield.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
On The Schedule:
League play begins for the Three Rivers Sandblasters this evening at Siuslaw High School as they host Salem’s Post 9 at five o’clock. Airtime on Coast Radio Sports will be at 4:45.
Registration is open for the Ocean Fest Triathlon July 18th in Winchester Bay. Registrants can enter as a team or individually in any of the legs. The race will include a four-mile kayak race, eight-mile bicycle leg and a four-mile run. Entry fees go to the Gardiner-Reedsport Lions Club. Entry information can be found at the Reedsport-Winchester Bay Chamber of Commerce.
The Florence City Council is being asked to take final action tonight on approving a 20-percent increase in waste-water rates and an accompanying hike of eight-percent for water rates. In addition, the council will most likely approve a $2-per-month fee that would be used to pay for street lighting. All told, residential utility customers in Florence that get water from the city will pay about $10-per month more beginning July First. The increased fees are as a result of higher operating costs according to Public Works Director Mike Miller who explained the potential increases to the council earlier this month.
The Council will also deal with several other important matters tonight. One of the final items on the agenda is the question of whether or not to rename Florence Garbage Dump Road. The access road to the Lane County Solid Waste Transfer Site also serves the Florence Area Humane Society. Some suggestions for new names include Estuary Drive, New Hope Lane, and Silver Lining Drive.
The council meets tonight at City Hall at seven.
Organizers say they’ll do it again. Yesterday’s first ever “Wings and Wheels’ at the Florence Municipal Airport. Two dozen different aircraft, about 75-classic autos and 30-or-so vintage military vehicles were on display along the flight-line as hundreds of visitors strolled around. The event was produced by the Oregon Coast Military Heritage Museum and it also included the observance of Flag Day.
Several hundred people were on hand for Saturday night’s Coastal Cuisine Gala to benefit Florence Food Share. Ticket sales were down, Food Share Manager Karen Lyn said there were only about a hundred tickets pre-sold but several walk-ins helped swell the crowd by the time doors opened. More than two dozen restaurants, wineries and breweries donated products for tasting during the three hour gala. The People’s Choice Award went to the Reedsport Coffee House for the second year in a row. The best ‘bite’ was judged to be Los Comprades Tacqueria and the best ‘sip’ came from Eola Hills Winery. The Prime Steak House at Three Rivers Casino was awarded the best ‘presentation’.
A Coast Guard helicopter from North Bend evacuated a man who suffered a head injury while playing basketball on a cruise ship Friday off the Oregon Coast. A Coast Guard spokesperson did not identify the 46-year old man but said he was plucked from the ship, 40-miles west of Florence, Friday afternoon and taken to River Bend Hospital in Springfield.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
On The Schedule:
League play begins for the Three Rivers Sandblasters this evening at Siuslaw High School as they host Salem’s Post 9 at five o’clock. Airtime on Coast Radio Sports will be at 4:45.
Registration is open for the Ocean Fest Triathlon July 18th in Winchester Bay. Registrants can enter as a team or individually in any of the legs. The race will include a four-mile kayak race, eight-mile bicycle leg and a four-mile run. Entry fees go to the Gardiner-Reedsport Lions Club. Entry information can be found at the Reedsport-Winchester Bay Chamber of Commerce.
Friday, June 12, 2009
School budget still flexible; scotch broom goes big; and highway safety important in construction zones
Who returns to their job this coming school year depends on a lot of factors…
The final directions may have been given to administrators Wednesday night, but it's most likely going to be later this month before the final budget for the coming school year is prepared. Siuslaw School District Business Manager Derek Smith said they spent much of the day Thursday sorting out just who would be returning to what position on July first. Issues with seniority and certification can make it a complex situation when changing the size of the work force. Initial budget estimates in April had targeted more than two-dozen employees… Teachers, Aides and Custodians… for layoff. With voter approval last month of a special tax levy and final adoption this week, it means that several programs and people will be retained. In addition to the metals program, the band programs at the middle and high school levels will be retained; two teachers have been added back to the middle school; another pair have been added at the elementary level, along with a music teacher and a behavior support assistant. The technology support department would have been gutted under the initial proposal, leaving only one person to maintain several hundred computer work stations. Once again there will now be two employees in that department. This week's budget approval is also based on an estimate of what the legislature will provide. Representative Jean Cowan of Newport said Thursday the education budget will most likely be one of the last things lawmakers do before adjourning… and that could be at least two weeks away.
It's been a heavy season for scotch broom according to folks at the City of Florence. The bright yellow blossoms this time of year may be pretty at first glance, but on closer inspection it's really a noxious weed that can take over and crowd out native species, while leaving no value for wildlife. It can also be a burden on people with respiratory difficulties when the pollen starts to fly. It takes commitment to curb the growth of Scotch Broom. Mature plants can live up to 50-years and it's a very prolific seed producer. One of the drawbacks to eradicating the weed is what to do with it when you cut it. You can't burn it inside the city limits, but Florence does offer monthly yard debris dropoffs at the north end of the airport. The next dropoff is set for a week from tomorrow.
There are no less than five highway construction projects currently underway in western Lane and Douglas counties, increasing the odds that any trip of more than a few miles may mean a delay.
210 -- "First of all, plan your trip, what you're doing. Add a little bit of extra time and then when you're going through the corridor please keep your eyes aware of not only people, but things."
Assistant Project Manager Steve Templin with the Oregon Department of Transportation says it's natural to want to see what's going on when driving through a work zone, but extra vigilance will help keep not only workers safer, but motorists as well.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
After running patiently next to two other leaders, Oregon's Galen Rupp pulled away with a devastating finish to win the national title in the 10,000 meters. He also gave the Ducks 10 crucial points in their pursuit of the team title at the NCAA track and field championships. Rupp and the Ducks are seeking a rare "Triple Crown" after winning men's team national titles in cross country and indoor track and field earlier this season. Rupp wasn't the only Oregon athlete to win. Ashton Eaton took the decathlon with 8,241 points, almost 200 more than the second-place finisher. The junior from Bend entered the second day of the decathlon with a huge lead after winning both the 100 and 400 meters on Wednesday. On Day Two, he won the 110-meter hurdles while setting a personal best in the discus.
The final directions may have been given to administrators Wednesday night, but it's most likely going to be later this month before the final budget for the coming school year is prepared. Siuslaw School District Business Manager Derek Smith said they spent much of the day Thursday sorting out just who would be returning to what position on July first. Issues with seniority and certification can make it a complex situation when changing the size of the work force. Initial budget estimates in April had targeted more than two-dozen employees… Teachers, Aides and Custodians… for layoff. With voter approval last month of a special tax levy and final adoption this week, it means that several programs and people will be retained. In addition to the metals program, the band programs at the middle and high school levels will be retained; two teachers have been added back to the middle school; another pair have been added at the elementary level, along with a music teacher and a behavior support assistant. The technology support department would have been gutted under the initial proposal, leaving only one person to maintain several hundred computer work stations. Once again there will now be two employees in that department. This week's budget approval is also based on an estimate of what the legislature will provide. Representative Jean Cowan of Newport said Thursday the education budget will most likely be one of the last things lawmakers do before adjourning… and that could be at least two weeks away.
It's been a heavy season for scotch broom according to folks at the City of Florence. The bright yellow blossoms this time of year may be pretty at first glance, but on closer inspection it's really a noxious weed that can take over and crowd out native species, while leaving no value for wildlife. It can also be a burden on people with respiratory difficulties when the pollen starts to fly. It takes commitment to curb the growth of Scotch Broom. Mature plants can live up to 50-years and it's a very prolific seed producer. One of the drawbacks to eradicating the weed is what to do with it when you cut it. You can't burn it inside the city limits, but Florence does offer monthly yard debris dropoffs at the north end of the airport. The next dropoff is set for a week from tomorrow.
There are no less than five highway construction projects currently underway in western Lane and Douglas counties, increasing the odds that any trip of more than a few miles may mean a delay.
210 -- "First of all, plan your trip, what you're doing. Add a little bit of extra time and then when you're going through the corridor please keep your eyes aware of not only people, but things."
Assistant Project Manager Steve Templin with the Oregon Department of Transportation says it's natural to want to see what's going on when driving through a work zone, but extra vigilance will help keep not only workers safer, but motorists as well.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
After running patiently next to two other leaders, Oregon's Galen Rupp pulled away with a devastating finish to win the national title in the 10,000 meters. He also gave the Ducks 10 crucial points in their pursuit of the team title at the NCAA track and field championships. Rupp and the Ducks are seeking a rare "Triple Crown" after winning men's team national titles in cross country and indoor track and field earlier this season. Rupp wasn't the only Oregon athlete to win. Ashton Eaton took the decathlon with 8,241 points, almost 200 more than the second-place finisher. The junior from Bend entered the second day of the decathlon with a huge lead after winning both the 100 and 400 meters on Wednesday. On Day Two, he won the 110-meter hurdles while setting a personal best in the discus.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
School budget approved... with remaining uncertainty; Road construction will slow down traffic; Dunes City budget headed for final answer.
School board approves budget… still facing some uncertainty
The metal arts program and the popular teacher that runs it will return to Siuslaw High School in the fall. The Siuslaw School Board adopted the final budget for the coming year last night. In the process, they instructed administrators to add back 3 ½ teaching positions and a half-time custodian that had been targeted for elimination under their most recent budget proposal presented last week. Funding for the metals program and one teacher in the Elementary School will come from a teacher’s union concession that freed up about $150-thousand. An additional classroom teacher in the middle school, a half-time language arts teacher in the high school and a half time middle school custodian will be paid by reducing the district’s ‘ending fund balance’. That move increases the chance that 97J may run short of cash again at the end of next year. Another area of concern to administrators is the exact level of funding that will be set by the legislature. That’s not been set yet and could negatively impact revenues, forcing the board to make additional adjustments. The initial budget proposal by superintendent George Winterscheid in April contained more than two-dozen job losses. Just over half of those were salvaged by early retirements and voter approval of additional tax revenues.
Siuslaw School District’s classified employees delivered a message to the school board last night. Speaking on behalf of president Wendy Rohner, Debbie Daugherty said the union would entertain an offer to adjust compensation in order to help save jobs. The teacher’s union agreed last week to give up cost of living increases in order to save two teaching positions. Daugherty indicated they would consider a similar move… if requested.
Chinook Winds casino at Lincoln City has opted to offer alcohol on the gaming floor. That’s after three other tribal owned gaming facilities had made the move. It started with the Three Rivers Casino last year. The Mill in North Bend followed, as did Seven Feathers in Canyonville. The other five tribal casinos in Oregon restrict alcoholic beverages to designated areas and do not allow them in areas where games are played.
The Dunes City Council is expected to finalize approval on their budget for the coming year during tonight’s regular meeting. Four of the ten ‘new-business’ items on the agenda are budget related. They meet at seven o’clock at Dunes City Hall.
You’ve got the car all packed up and you’re ready to go… it’s vacation time and you have nothing but open highway ahead of you… unless you’re in Western Lane or Douglas Counties. Then chances are good that you’ll have to ‘hurry up and wait’. Several road and bridge construction projects are underway, each bringing possible delays. Oregon Department of Transportation spokesperson Steve Templin will be the guest on this afternoon’s KCST Community Forum. He’ll give details on the projects and answer listener’s questions. That show on 106.9 is set for 4:05.
Taking a look at Coast Radio Sports…
Several players with Oregon ties were selected in the second day of the Major League Baseball draft. Oregon State’s two-time all Pac-Ten Conference catcher Ryan Ortiz was selected in the sixth round by the Oakland As. Pitchers Jorge Reyes and Kraig Sitton were both taken in the 17th round, Reyes by San Diego; Sitton by the Red Sox. Both said they still haven’t made up their minds whether to leave the Beavers for the Bigs or not. Oregon State shortstop Joey Wong was taken by the Colorado Rockies in the 24th round.
The Ducks lost a pair of players from their ‘first-year’ roster. Pitcher Erik Stavert was taken by the Rockies in the seventh round and the Oakland As selected right hander Drew Gagnier in the 14th.
Western Oregon’s Blake Keitzman was picked up by the Seattle Mariners.
The metal arts program and the popular teacher that runs it will return to Siuslaw High School in the fall. The Siuslaw School Board adopted the final budget for the coming year last night. In the process, they instructed administrators to add back 3 ½ teaching positions and a half-time custodian that had been targeted for elimination under their most recent budget proposal presented last week. Funding for the metals program and one teacher in the Elementary School will come from a teacher’s union concession that freed up about $150-thousand. An additional classroom teacher in the middle school, a half-time language arts teacher in the high school and a half time middle school custodian will be paid by reducing the district’s ‘ending fund balance’. That move increases the chance that 97J may run short of cash again at the end of next year. Another area of concern to administrators is the exact level of funding that will be set by the legislature. That’s not been set yet and could negatively impact revenues, forcing the board to make additional adjustments. The initial budget proposal by superintendent George Winterscheid in April contained more than two-dozen job losses. Just over half of those were salvaged by early retirements and voter approval of additional tax revenues.
Siuslaw School District’s classified employees delivered a message to the school board last night. Speaking on behalf of president Wendy Rohner, Debbie Daugherty said the union would entertain an offer to adjust compensation in order to help save jobs. The teacher’s union agreed last week to give up cost of living increases in order to save two teaching positions. Daugherty indicated they would consider a similar move… if requested.
Chinook Winds casino at Lincoln City has opted to offer alcohol on the gaming floor. That’s after three other tribal owned gaming facilities had made the move. It started with the Three Rivers Casino last year. The Mill in North Bend followed, as did Seven Feathers in Canyonville. The other five tribal casinos in Oregon restrict alcoholic beverages to designated areas and do not allow them in areas where games are played.
The Dunes City Council is expected to finalize approval on their budget for the coming year during tonight’s regular meeting. Four of the ten ‘new-business’ items on the agenda are budget related. They meet at seven o’clock at Dunes City Hall.
You’ve got the car all packed up and you’re ready to go… it’s vacation time and you have nothing but open highway ahead of you… unless you’re in Western Lane or Douglas Counties. Then chances are good that you’ll have to ‘hurry up and wait’. Several road and bridge construction projects are underway, each bringing possible delays. Oregon Department of Transportation spokesperson Steve Templin will be the guest on this afternoon’s KCST Community Forum. He’ll give details on the projects and answer listener’s questions. That show on 106.9 is set for 4:05.
Taking a look at Coast Radio Sports…
Several players with Oregon ties were selected in the second day of the Major League Baseball draft. Oregon State’s two-time all Pac-Ten Conference catcher Ryan Ortiz was selected in the sixth round by the Oakland As. Pitchers Jorge Reyes and Kraig Sitton were both taken in the 17th round, Reyes by San Diego; Sitton by the Red Sox. Both said they still haven’t made up their minds whether to leave the Beavers for the Bigs or not. Oregon State shortstop Joey Wong was taken by the Colorado Rockies in the 24th round.
The Ducks lost a pair of players from their ‘first-year’ roster. Pitcher Erik Stavert was taken by the Rockies in the seventh round and the Oakland As selected right hander Drew Gagnier in the 14th.
Western Oregon’s Blake Keitzman was picked up by the Seattle Mariners.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Cuts for senior and disabled services looming; Florence to consider coastal goals; Dunes City CCI talks stormwater; and the switch to DTV... will it?
Draft budget proposal to impact senior and disabled services…
It’s down to the wire for advocates of Oregon senior citizens and those with disabilities to make their case to state lawmakers. Passage of the proposed Department of Human Services budget could mean cuts that will affect thousands of Oregon families and compromise the effectiveness of the state’s care-giving industry. The draft budget proposal would cut 38-percent Pof in-home care and 40-percent of nursing home funding. Jerry Cohen, the head of AARP-Oregon, says he understands that money is tight, but feels the cuts would be too deep.
200 – “We’re all sharing some pain and some responsibility. So, it is a matter of balancing both cuts and revenues in a fair and equitable manner.
Cohen says the proposal would eliminate almost 6-thousand care-giving jobs and effectively turns away $200-million in federal matching money because the state wouldn’t be funding its portion of some programs. Lawmakers agree cutting social services is never easy, but they say it’s necessary to try to reverse the state budget shortfall.
Oregon News Service provided the audio for this story…
With the annexation of Driftwood Shores, the City of Florence added something it’s never had before… ocean beaches. That means portions of the three coastal statewide planning goals now apply to the city’s comprehensive plan. The Florence Planning Commission and City Council will meet in a joint session this evening at City Hall to hear about proposed amendments relating to those goals. A work session begins at seven, followed by a public hearing on the matter. City Manager Bob Willoughby says it’s expected that the Planning Commission will take action tonight and the council will take the matter up June 29th. // The Dunes City Committee for Citizen Involvement… the C-C-I will convene tonight to review a proposed stormwater ordinance. The ordinance is intended to protect water quality in Siltcoos and Woahink lakes. The committee will convene at six pm, take public comment on the matter and then discuss it.
The digital age for television starts this Friday… or does it? A lot is being made of the official day for the switch to DTV which could render rabbit ears on televisions across the country worthless without a digital converter box. Subscribers to satellite and cable systems will be unaffected by the conversion, but so will members of translator associations such as the one operating in Florence. West Lane Translator Association will not be making the transition this week. They’re not required to. W-L-T boardmember Larry Bloomfield says they’re still working out the details and the switch could come as early as this fall. An informational meeting about the DTV switch is scheduled for Thursday afternoon, 12:30PM at Siuslaw Public Library.
Taking a look at Coast Radio Sports…
College and high school baseball players throughout Oregon are anxious to hear their names called today as Major League Baseball holds its annual draft. The Oregon State Beavers appear likely lose their starting catcher as junior Ryan Ortiz is expected to get drafted, sign a pro contract and leave the Beavers after earning all-Pacific-10 Conference first team honors the past two seasons. The Oregon Ducks, meanwhile, seem assured of losing Tyler Matzek, their top recruit. The high school left-hander throws in the mid-90s and will get millions of dollars if he's drafted early in the first round as expected.
It’s down to the wire for advocates of Oregon senior citizens and those with disabilities to make their case to state lawmakers. Passage of the proposed Department of Human Services budget could mean cuts that will affect thousands of Oregon families and compromise the effectiveness of the state’s care-giving industry. The draft budget proposal would cut 38-percent Pof in-home care and 40-percent of nursing home funding. Jerry Cohen, the head of AARP-Oregon, says he understands that money is tight, but feels the cuts would be too deep.
200 – “We’re all sharing some pain and some responsibility. So, it is a matter of balancing both cuts and revenues in a fair and equitable manner.
Cohen says the proposal would eliminate almost 6-thousand care-giving jobs and effectively turns away $200-million in federal matching money because the state wouldn’t be funding its portion of some programs. Lawmakers agree cutting social services is never easy, but they say it’s necessary to try to reverse the state budget shortfall.
Oregon News Service provided the audio for this story…
With the annexation of Driftwood Shores, the City of Florence added something it’s never had before… ocean beaches. That means portions of the three coastal statewide planning goals now apply to the city’s comprehensive plan. The Florence Planning Commission and City Council will meet in a joint session this evening at City Hall to hear about proposed amendments relating to those goals. A work session begins at seven, followed by a public hearing on the matter. City Manager Bob Willoughby says it’s expected that the Planning Commission will take action tonight and the council will take the matter up June 29th. // The Dunes City Committee for Citizen Involvement… the C-C-I will convene tonight to review a proposed stormwater ordinance. The ordinance is intended to protect water quality in Siltcoos and Woahink lakes. The committee will convene at six pm, take public comment on the matter and then discuss it.
The digital age for television starts this Friday… or does it? A lot is being made of the official day for the switch to DTV which could render rabbit ears on televisions across the country worthless without a digital converter box. Subscribers to satellite and cable systems will be unaffected by the conversion, but so will members of translator associations such as the one operating in Florence. West Lane Translator Association will not be making the transition this week. They’re not required to. W-L-T boardmember Larry Bloomfield says they’re still working out the details and the switch could come as early as this fall. An informational meeting about the DTV switch is scheduled for Thursday afternoon, 12:30PM at Siuslaw Public Library.
Taking a look at Coast Radio Sports…
College and high school baseball players throughout Oregon are anxious to hear their names called today as Major League Baseball holds its annual draft. The Oregon State Beavers appear likely lose their starting catcher as junior Ryan Ortiz is expected to get drafted, sign a pro contract and leave the Beavers after earning all-Pacific-10 Conference first team honors the past two seasons. The Oregon Ducks, meanwhile, seem assured of losing Tyler Matzek, their top recruit. The high school left-hander throws in the mid-90s and will get millions of dollars if he's drafted early in the first round as expected.
Monday, June 8, 2009
KCST Community Forum to focus on highway construction...
Motorists in the Florence area may find it difficult to get anywhere without encountering the orange cones of a highway work zone this summer. No fewer than five different projects are underway on the western end of Highway 126 and on 101 in the central coast area. All have the potential to slow things down and cause delays. But, says an Oregon Department of Transportation spokesperson, the wait will be worth it.
Steve Templin also says his agency has recognized the potential for multiple delays on any one stretch of highway and they've taken steps to minimize the disruption.
One way is by requiring contractors to coordinate traffic delays and limit the total amount of time of them on any one stretch of road. For instance, motorists on Highway 126 east of Florence this summer will enter and exit at least three separate work zones on their way to the Willamette Valley. Templin said he hopes they won't experience any more that a 30 minute wait in all.
Templin a registered engineer and the Assistant Project Supervisor in three of the work zones in the Florence area, will be on the next edition of the KCST Community Forum to talk about what motorists in the area can expect this summer as well as what the finished projects will look like.
Listeners will be able to call in during the show and ask questions and make comments. It airs on KCST FM 106.9, Thursday afternoon from 4:05 to 5:00 PM. The show is sponsored by Andy Baber of Edward Jones Investments; Davis, McCulloch, Holloway CPAs; and PeaceHealth Siuslaw Region.
The KCST Community Forum also airs on Community Television channnel 10 with the cooperation of Campbell Productions. Viewers in Florence and Dunes City can watch the program on tape delay on this and other CPTV affiliates. Each program airs 16 times per week, check local listings at http://oregoncities.tv for details. The program is also available for viewing online at the same website.
Steve Templin also says his agency has recognized the potential for multiple delays on any one stretch of highway and they've taken steps to minimize the disruption.
One way is by requiring contractors to coordinate traffic delays and limit the total amount of time of them on any one stretch of road. For instance, motorists on Highway 126 east of Florence this summer will enter and exit at least three separate work zones on their way to the Willamette Valley. Templin said he hopes they won't experience any more that a 30 minute wait in all.
Templin a registered engineer and the Assistant Project Supervisor in three of the work zones in the Florence area, will be on the next edition of the KCST Community Forum to talk about what motorists in the area can expect this summer as well as what the finished projects will look like.
Listeners will be able to call in during the show and ask questions and make comments. It airs on KCST FM 106.9, Thursday afternoon from 4:05 to 5:00 PM. The show is sponsored by Andy Baber of Edward Jones Investments; Davis, McCulloch, Holloway CPAs; and PeaceHealth Siuslaw Region.
The KCST Community Forum also airs on Community Television channnel 10 with the cooperation of Campbell Productions. Viewers in Florence and Dunes City can watch the program on tape delay on this and other CPTV affiliates. Each program airs 16 times per week, check local listings at http://oregoncities.tv for details. The program is also available for viewing online at the same website.
Watch for pedestrians! The chips will fly, paving project to impact coastal driving, and who threw the cones?
Watch those crosswalks... sound advice at any time, but especially tomorrow afternoon if you're driving through downtown Florence. Police say a dramatic rise in the number of pedestrian-auto crashes in Florence over the past six months has prompted a return to a "targeted pedestrian enforcement operation." Two crosswalks on 101 will be targeted between four and six pm Tuesday, one at 15th Street, the other at 8th. For that two hour period, police will focus on motorists and how they react to pedestrians in the crosswalks. According to the Oregon Department of Transportation, drivers must come to a complete stop when pedestrians are in the lane adjacent to the one their vehicle is in and remain that way until the pedestrian has cleared the lane on the opposite side. The department also say there is a crosswalk at every intersection in Oregon, not just the ones that are marked. If a pedestrian is attempting to cross where there are no lines, the same law applies. Likewise, there are rules governing the pedestrian... they're advised to not take any unexpected actions such as stepping quickly out in front of traffic.
About 50-traffic cones and two barricades ended up at the bottom of the Siuslaw River beneath the Highway 101 bridge and Oregon State Troopers want to know who did it. The traffic control devices were reported missing from the bridge restoration project yesterday morning. Trooper Justin Goldsmith responded, investigated and found some of the missing items. They were visible in the river but not retrievable because of the depth.
Yet another highway construction project is set to get underway today on the central Oregon Coast, bringing intermittent lane closures and traffic delays. Daytime pavement grinding and nighttime paving will extend from the Umpqua River bridge in Reedsport, south about six miles to the entrance to Umpqua Lighthouse State Park. Dan Latham with the Oregon Department of Transportation says at least one lane will remain open in each direction through downtown Reedsport during the project. However, lane closures will be required in the southern end of the project through Winchester Bay. Latham says work will only occur during weekedays and is expected to be completed by early July.
The chips will fly in Reedsport over Father's Day weekend. June 18th through the 21st will mark the tenth annual Oregon Divisional Chainsaw Sculping Championships. In addition to chainsaw artists from around the world, the weekend will feature a Corvette car show.
Taking a look at Coast Radio Sports...
Saturday's game was called on account of rain, but the Three Rivers Sandblasters Triple-A American Legion team and their Single-A counterpart North Coos Waterfront were able to get in a game yesterday. The 'Blasters came out on top 10-3 at Clyde Allen Field in North Bend. Travis Iverson picked up the win with seven innings of work, giving up only four hits. Zach Laxague put up a two-run double in the first inning to start things off. Tyler Mais had a two-run home run in the game.
Astoria defeated Baker 4-1 to claim the OSAA 4A baseball title Saturday afternoon in Keizer. In Corvallis, Marist beat Henley 2-1 for the softball title.
About 50-traffic cones and two barricades ended up at the bottom of the Siuslaw River beneath the Highway 101 bridge and Oregon State Troopers want to know who did it. The traffic control devices were reported missing from the bridge restoration project yesterday morning. Trooper Justin Goldsmith responded, investigated and found some of the missing items. They were visible in the river but not retrievable because of the depth.
Yet another highway construction project is set to get underway today on the central Oregon Coast, bringing intermittent lane closures and traffic delays. Daytime pavement grinding and nighttime paving will extend from the Umpqua River bridge in Reedsport, south about six miles to the entrance to Umpqua Lighthouse State Park. Dan Latham with the Oregon Department of Transportation says at least one lane will remain open in each direction through downtown Reedsport during the project. However, lane closures will be required in the southern end of the project through Winchester Bay. Latham says work will only occur during weekedays and is expected to be completed by early July.
The chips will fly in Reedsport over Father's Day weekend. June 18th through the 21st will mark the tenth annual Oregon Divisional Chainsaw Sculping Championships. In addition to chainsaw artists from around the world, the weekend will feature a Corvette car show.
Taking a look at Coast Radio Sports...
Saturday's game was called on account of rain, but the Three Rivers Sandblasters Triple-A American Legion team and their Single-A counterpart North Coos Waterfront were able to get in a game yesterday. The 'Blasters came out on top 10-3 at Clyde Allen Field in North Bend. Travis Iverson picked up the win with seven innings of work, giving up only four hits. Zach Laxague put up a two-run double in the first inning to start things off. Tyler Mais had a two-run home run in the game.
Astoria defeated Baker 4-1 to claim the OSAA 4A baseball title Saturday afternoon in Keizer. In Corvallis, Marist beat Henley 2-1 for the softball title.
Friday, June 5, 2009
School board discusses options, Mapleton grads set for tomorrow; rail tunnel renovations sought; and Kilroy was here!
School Board discusses possible restorations...
School board members sat down this morning in a special meeting to discuss their options for possibly returning even more teachers to classrooms next year than initially planned. The current administration proposal, using added voter approved funding and early retirements, is to add back ten of 18 jobs initially targeted for elimination. No formal decisions were made, but based on the discussion there is a possibility that two more teachers, and possibly as many as four, could be restored. Board members talked about how they would pay for those positions in light of a shortfall that is still three-quarters of a million dollars, even with voter approval of a special operating levy. One proposal being considered by the teacher’s union today… the board has asked them to forego their ‘cost of living’ increases set to take effect July First. That would free up enough money for two of those jobs.
Plus, there are still many unknowns in the process. The legislature has yet to approve final funding at the state level leaving some items up the air. District Financial Director Derek Smith also expressed concerns about the board possibly reducing the amount of ‘set aside’ to fund PERS (PURRZ) contributions for the coming year.
The board will meet Wednesday night in a regular session to consider taking final action on the budget.
The Oregon International Port of Coos Bay is seeking bids on repair and renovation work to tunnels along the 110-mile long rail line between Coquille and the Willamette Valley. Work is expected to take five to six months to complete, but officials say, additional right-of-way work will be required to reopen the line that has been closed since September 2007. The line was acquired earlier this year from Central Oregon and Pacific Railway.
Henry David Thoreau said “Go confidently in the direction of your dreams, live the life you have imagined”. That’s the motto for the class of 2009 at Mapleton High School. Their commencement exercises are set for two pm tomorrow. Valedictorian is Tessa Spurk; Salutatorian will be Anna Sherrett and the class has invited school counselor Ryan Chambers as the special guest speaker. Nine graduating seniors are set to get their diplomas.
When Allied soldiers and Marines battled their way across the beaches of Normandy 65 years ago, it marked the beginning of the final year of struggle to end World War Two. In that final year, often times soldiers would discover that someone ahead of them had inscribed the words “Kilroy was here” on a wall, a vehicle or some other surface. Backers of the proposed Oregon Coast Military Heritage Museum have adopted the practice as a way to raise money for their facility and so far it’s paid off to the tune of about $5-thousand. More than 200-people have joined the “Kilroy Corps” an advance fund-raising effort. In all donations for the museum have reached $27-thousand in value.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
The Three Rivers Sandblasters return to the diamond beginning this weekend for a pair of exhibition games against their ‘single-A’ sister team in North Bend. Saturday they’ll play at Siuslaw High School, Sunday at Clyde Allen Field in North Bend… both games are at 3:00 and Sunday’s game will air on Coast Radio Sports. The ‘Blasters will have a new skipper when they hit the field. Ben Johnson coached at the high school level for 11 seasons, including at Eugene’s Sheldon High School from 1999 to 2004. This past season he was an assistant at Salem’s Willamette University. Johnson said the early part of the season at the Triple-A American Legion level can be challenging.
201 – “Well I mean it’s hard to say at this point because we’ve had a hard time getting everybody from all the different areas. I mean I don’t even know what my team is yet at this point. I’m just looking forward at trying to get the season started and hopefully getting these guys headed in the right direction.”
Johnson will have a week to solidify his lineup… the Sandblasters' first league game will be June 15th.
The 27th annual Elliott Fun Bass Tournament is this weekend on Siltcoos Lake. Competitors will have tomorrow from six am to five pm, and then Sunday from six to eleven to capture their elusive quarry. All fish will be released following judging. The tournament headquarters are at Ada Resort and proceeds from the tourney and an accompanying raffle all benefit the Florence-Siuslaw Lions scholarship funds.
School board members sat down this morning in a special meeting to discuss their options for possibly returning even more teachers to classrooms next year than initially planned. The current administration proposal, using added voter approved funding and early retirements, is to add back ten of 18 jobs initially targeted for elimination. No formal decisions were made, but based on the discussion there is a possibility that two more teachers, and possibly as many as four, could be restored. Board members talked about how they would pay for those positions in light of a shortfall that is still three-quarters of a million dollars, even with voter approval of a special operating levy. One proposal being considered by the teacher’s union today… the board has asked them to forego their ‘cost of living’ increases set to take effect July First. That would free up enough money for two of those jobs.
Plus, there are still many unknowns in the process. The legislature has yet to approve final funding at the state level leaving some items up the air. District Financial Director Derek Smith also expressed concerns about the board possibly reducing the amount of ‘set aside’ to fund PERS (PURRZ) contributions for the coming year.
The board will meet Wednesday night in a regular session to consider taking final action on the budget.
The Oregon International Port of Coos Bay is seeking bids on repair and renovation work to tunnels along the 110-mile long rail line between Coquille and the Willamette Valley. Work is expected to take five to six months to complete, but officials say, additional right-of-way work will be required to reopen the line that has been closed since September 2007. The line was acquired earlier this year from Central Oregon and Pacific Railway.
Henry David Thoreau said “Go confidently in the direction of your dreams, live the life you have imagined”. That’s the motto for the class of 2009 at Mapleton High School. Their commencement exercises are set for two pm tomorrow. Valedictorian is Tessa Spurk; Salutatorian will be Anna Sherrett and the class has invited school counselor Ryan Chambers as the special guest speaker. Nine graduating seniors are set to get their diplomas.
When Allied soldiers and Marines battled their way across the beaches of Normandy 65 years ago, it marked the beginning of the final year of struggle to end World War Two. In that final year, often times soldiers would discover that someone ahead of them had inscribed the words “Kilroy was here” on a wall, a vehicle or some other surface. Backers of the proposed Oregon Coast Military Heritage Museum have adopted the practice as a way to raise money for their facility and so far it’s paid off to the tune of about $5-thousand. More than 200-people have joined the “Kilroy Corps” an advance fund-raising effort. In all donations for the museum have reached $27-thousand in value.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
The Three Rivers Sandblasters return to the diamond beginning this weekend for a pair of exhibition games against their ‘single-A’ sister team in North Bend. Saturday they’ll play at Siuslaw High School, Sunday at Clyde Allen Field in North Bend… both games are at 3:00 and Sunday’s game will air on Coast Radio Sports. The ‘Blasters will have a new skipper when they hit the field. Ben Johnson coached at the high school level for 11 seasons, including at Eugene’s Sheldon High School from 1999 to 2004. This past season he was an assistant at Salem’s Willamette University. Johnson said the early part of the season at the Triple-A American Legion level can be challenging.
201 – “Well I mean it’s hard to say at this point because we’ve had a hard time getting everybody from all the different areas. I mean I don’t even know what my team is yet at this point. I’m just looking forward at trying to get the season started and hopefully getting these guys headed in the right direction.”
Johnson will have a week to solidify his lineup… the Sandblasters' first league game will be June 15th.
The 27th annual Elliott Fun Bass Tournament is this weekend on Siltcoos Lake. Competitors will have tomorrow from six am to five pm, and then Sunday from six to eleven to capture their elusive quarry. All fish will be released following judging. The tournament headquarters are at Ada Resort and proceeds from the tourney and an accompanying raffle all benefit the Florence-Siuslaw Lions scholarship funds.
School Board holding special meeting this morning…
Deliberation on just which of some two-dozen jobs may be restored at Siuslaw Schools is happening this morning. The Siuslaw School Board is holding a special meeting at 7:30 AM to deliberate following approval of the revenue amount earlier this week by the budget committee. In addition to a band teacher and elementary school PE, superintendent George Winterscheid is recommending restoration of the high school culinary arts program, one classroom teacher in the middle school and a part time music teacher in the elementary school. The additional revenue means there’s an expected shortfall of roughly three-quarters of a million dollars for the coming year… as opposed to the $1.7-million initially anticipated.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
School budget panel sets revenue amount, board to hold special meeting, Flo PD begins 'twitter-like' service and check that ground beef.
Budget committee sets revenue number… Board to discuss job cuts
The Siuslaw School District will have $982-thousand more to work with in the coming year than anticipated. In April when the budget committee first convened, they were looking at a $1.7-million shortfall with estimated general fund revenues of just under $12.2 million. Voters subsequently approved a local operating levy that will generate just over a million dollars this year, plus the legislature is expected to kick in an extra $140-thousand. In all, that would total an extra $1.2-million but Superintendent George Winterscheid, backed by several school board members, is advocating a conservative approach by eliminating accrual… an accounting ‘manuever’ where cash is borrowed from future years to be spent in the current year. That amount has grown to $440-thousand and Winterscheid had initially wanted to repay half of that amount. Now he’s advocating for a full payback and by doing so he says, it would help put the district on more sound fiscal footing. The budget committee heard from several district employees, parents and residents last night. They ultimately approved $13,177,000 as the general fund revenue number.
School board members attempted to convene a special meeting immediately following last night’s budget session but quickly cancelled those plans when it was determined they may be in violation of Oregon Open Meeting Laws. Instead, board chair Paul Burns announced a special session to be held Friday morning, 7:30 AM, at the district office. He didn’t specify the intent of the meeting, but it’s expected the board will deliberate on budget issues. Of particular concern: which of the 21 jobs targeted for elimination will be restored as a result of the added revenue. Superintendent George Winterscheid provided a list of 13 jobs he wants restored including a band teacher, elementary school PE and several classroom teachers at all levels. Teacher’s union president Tim Dodson suggested last night that at least two more jobs could be added to the restoration list.
The Florence Police Department is launching a new community information service designed to deliver timely and important data to residents. It’s called Nixle and is a technology-based networking system similar to Twitter. Residents and media members would sign up for the program via the department’s website and once enrolled would receive notifications about public safety emergencies such as tsunamis or amber alerts. Those messages would be delivered via the internet, cell phones or e-mail. Police Chief Maury Sanders said there’ll be no spam or advertising allowed.
Nearly 40-thousand pounds of ground beef products marketed under the Cascade Natural Beef and SP Provisions brands are being recalled by a Portland company because it may be contaminated by E.coli. The US Agriculture Department said the bulk ground beef and patties were produced between April 8th and May 28th. Routine sampling turned up the problem, The department says there have been no illnesses reported.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
It’s billed as National Trails Day, the first Saturday in June, but it’s also become a significant event in Oregon’s State Parks and is more popularly known as “Free Fishing Day”. Saturday from 8:30 to One PM at Cleowox Lake at Honeyman State Park volunteers with the Salmon and Trout Enhancement Program will be on hand to help kids out with fishing basics and techniques. Gear will be provided for participants to borrow if they don’t have any, as well as food, drink and prizes. It’s co-sponsored by the US Forest Service and Honeyman State Park.
If you want to get a head start on National Trails Day, a special day of outdoor activities is planned for the Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint north of Florence tomorrow. From 8:30 to 10:00 there will be guided explorations of tidepools. Then from 1:30 to three a birding session will be offered.
The Siuslaw School District will have $982-thousand more to work with in the coming year than anticipated. In April when the budget committee first convened, they were looking at a $1.7-million shortfall with estimated general fund revenues of just under $12.2 million. Voters subsequently approved a local operating levy that will generate just over a million dollars this year, plus the legislature is expected to kick in an extra $140-thousand. In all, that would total an extra $1.2-million but Superintendent George Winterscheid, backed by several school board members, is advocating a conservative approach by eliminating accrual… an accounting ‘manuever’ where cash is borrowed from future years to be spent in the current year. That amount has grown to $440-thousand and Winterscheid had initially wanted to repay half of that amount. Now he’s advocating for a full payback and by doing so he says, it would help put the district on more sound fiscal footing. The budget committee heard from several district employees, parents and residents last night. They ultimately approved $13,177,000 as the general fund revenue number.
School board members attempted to convene a special meeting immediately following last night’s budget session but quickly cancelled those plans when it was determined they may be in violation of Oregon Open Meeting Laws. Instead, board chair Paul Burns announced a special session to be held Friday morning, 7:30 AM, at the district office. He didn’t specify the intent of the meeting, but it’s expected the board will deliberate on budget issues. Of particular concern: which of the 21 jobs targeted for elimination will be restored as a result of the added revenue. Superintendent George Winterscheid provided a list of 13 jobs he wants restored including a band teacher, elementary school PE and several classroom teachers at all levels. Teacher’s union president Tim Dodson suggested last night that at least two more jobs could be added to the restoration list.
The Florence Police Department is launching a new community information service designed to deliver timely and important data to residents. It’s called Nixle and is a technology-based networking system similar to Twitter. Residents and media members would sign up for the program via the department’s website and once enrolled would receive notifications about public safety emergencies such as tsunamis or amber alerts. Those messages would be delivered via the internet, cell phones or e-mail. Police Chief Maury Sanders said there’ll be no spam or advertising allowed.
Nearly 40-thousand pounds of ground beef products marketed under the Cascade Natural Beef and SP Provisions brands are being recalled by a Portland company because it may be contaminated by E.coli. The US Agriculture Department said the bulk ground beef and patties were produced between April 8th and May 28th. Routine sampling turned up the problem, The department says there have been no illnesses reported.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
It’s billed as National Trails Day, the first Saturday in June, but it’s also become a significant event in Oregon’s State Parks and is more popularly known as “Free Fishing Day”. Saturday from 8:30 to One PM at Cleowox Lake at Honeyman State Park volunteers with the Salmon and Trout Enhancement Program will be on hand to help kids out with fishing basics and techniques. Gear will be provided for participants to borrow if they don’t have any, as well as food, drink and prizes. It’s co-sponsored by the US Forest Service and Honeyman State Park.
If you want to get a head start on National Trails Day, a special day of outdoor activities is planned for the Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint north of Florence tomorrow. From 8:30 to 10:00 there will be guided explorations of tidepools. Then from 1:30 to three a birding session will be offered.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Congressional delegation critical of Lane County Commission; school budgeteers get back to work; don't feed the bears!; and gas prices continue rise.
Lane County Holding Timber Money…
Two members of Oregon’s congressional delegation are unhappy that Lane County has not used some of its federal timber money to restore cuts to jail capacity. Democrats Senator Ron Wyden and Representative Peter DeFazio have told Lane County commissioners that when they try to renew the millions of dollars for timber counties hurt by logging cutbacks, they’ll have a tough time politically. In a letter to commissioners, Wyden talked about arguments he and others used to convince colleagues that rural counties deserved continued federal payments. He said if convicted, violent criminals are released early for a lack of funds while some of that money is being held in reserve it would – quote -- “greatly undermine” his prospects for continued federal support. Last month the Lane County Budget Committee voted down a proposal to use $3.2-million of the timber money to fund an additional 84 jail beds for the coming year. Instead they want to hold most of it in reserve until the level of state funding is known. Commission Chair Pete Sorenson defended the move saying it would be fiscally irresponsible to spend the timber money as if it would go on forever, when it’s slated to run out at the end of 2011. Commissioners have said they’ll consider the move to fund the jail beds again later this month.
The Siuslaw School District Budget Committee will get back to work tonight. They had been looking at a $1.7-million shortfall for the coming year but voter approval of a five year, $5-million operating levy will help fill some of that gap. It’s unknown what programs, if any, might be saved. Superintendent George Winterscheid said the day after the election he talked to several employees targeted for layoff to tell them he was recommending their jobs be spared. The budget committee meets at the Elementary School Library at 6:30.
A Yachats woman on trial for feeding black bears outside her home has been convicted of harassing wildlife. But, 61-year old Karen Noyes was found not-guilty on a charge of recklessly endangering another person. Neighbors and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife said the woman repeatedly ignored requests to stop feeding the animals. Bears fed by humans often lose their natural fear and become nuisances. Neighbors say that’s exactly what happened last summer. One woman testified a bear got stuck in her dog door. Another neighbor that raises birds testified that a bear stormed her barn and killed 60 turkeys. Sentencing is scheduled for June 25th.
Gas prices are up nine-cents a gallon on average across the state and locally in the past week. They’re still much cheaper than they were last year at this time, but nearly a dollar a gallon above their recent low in mid December. According to Triple-A of Oregon the statewide average price for a gallon of regular unleaded is $2.59. The national average is $2.53, mirroring the local average price.
Taking a look at Coast Radio Sports…
Siuslaw High School seniors Shelbey McClellan and Jake Mitchell are the Sports’ Club and Coast Radio Sports’ Athletes of the Year.
McClellan excelled in Volleyball, earning many honors for her work on the court including Far West League Most Valuable Player and OSAA 4A All-State team. Despite a chronic shoulder injury that prevented her from throwing the shot put with her right arm, she captured the Far West League title in that event and finished fourth at the state meet in Eugene. McClellan also captured the league title in the discus, finishing eighth in that event in Eugene. Her prowess in the throwing events led to her selection as the Most Valuable Female Thrower in the Far West this year.
Mitchell excelled in three sports, earning ‘all-league’ honors in each. He was named the Far West League offensive player of the year as well as the Far West League’s first team selection for quarterback. On the basketball court he earned First Team honors as a point guard and was included on the ‘all-defensive’ team. In Track and Field Mitchell earned second team honors for both hurdles events, narrowly missing a trip to the state finals in both the 100 meter and 300 Intermediates, finishing third place in both events.
Two members of Oregon’s congressional delegation are unhappy that Lane County has not used some of its federal timber money to restore cuts to jail capacity. Democrats Senator Ron Wyden and Representative Peter DeFazio have told Lane County commissioners that when they try to renew the millions of dollars for timber counties hurt by logging cutbacks, they’ll have a tough time politically. In a letter to commissioners, Wyden talked about arguments he and others used to convince colleagues that rural counties deserved continued federal payments. He said if convicted, violent criminals are released early for a lack of funds while some of that money is being held in reserve it would – quote -- “greatly undermine” his prospects for continued federal support. Last month the Lane County Budget Committee voted down a proposal to use $3.2-million of the timber money to fund an additional 84 jail beds for the coming year. Instead they want to hold most of it in reserve until the level of state funding is known. Commission Chair Pete Sorenson defended the move saying it would be fiscally irresponsible to spend the timber money as if it would go on forever, when it’s slated to run out at the end of 2011. Commissioners have said they’ll consider the move to fund the jail beds again later this month.
The Siuslaw School District Budget Committee will get back to work tonight. They had been looking at a $1.7-million shortfall for the coming year but voter approval of a five year, $5-million operating levy will help fill some of that gap. It’s unknown what programs, if any, might be saved. Superintendent George Winterscheid said the day after the election he talked to several employees targeted for layoff to tell them he was recommending their jobs be spared. The budget committee meets at the Elementary School Library at 6:30.
A Yachats woman on trial for feeding black bears outside her home has been convicted of harassing wildlife. But, 61-year old Karen Noyes was found not-guilty on a charge of recklessly endangering another person. Neighbors and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife said the woman repeatedly ignored requests to stop feeding the animals. Bears fed by humans often lose their natural fear and become nuisances. Neighbors say that’s exactly what happened last summer. One woman testified a bear got stuck in her dog door. Another neighbor that raises birds testified that a bear stormed her barn and killed 60 turkeys. Sentencing is scheduled for June 25th.
Gas prices are up nine-cents a gallon on average across the state and locally in the past week. They’re still much cheaper than they were last year at this time, but nearly a dollar a gallon above their recent low in mid December. According to Triple-A of Oregon the statewide average price for a gallon of regular unleaded is $2.59. The national average is $2.53, mirroring the local average price.
Taking a look at Coast Radio Sports…
Siuslaw High School seniors Shelbey McClellan and Jake Mitchell are the Sports’ Club and Coast Radio Sports’ Athletes of the Year.
McClellan excelled in Volleyball, earning many honors for her work on the court including Far West League Most Valuable Player and OSAA 4A All-State team. Despite a chronic shoulder injury that prevented her from throwing the shot put with her right arm, she captured the Far West League title in that event and finished fourth at the state meet in Eugene. McClellan also captured the league title in the discus, finishing eighth in that event in Eugene. Her prowess in the throwing events led to her selection as the Most Valuable Female Thrower in the Far West this year.
Mitchell excelled in three sports, earning ‘all-league’ honors in each. He was named the Far West League offensive player of the year as well as the Far West League’s first team selection for quarterback. On the basketball court he earned First Team honors as a point guard and was included on the ‘all-defensive’ team. In Track and Field Mitchell earned second team honors for both hurdles events, narrowly missing a trip to the state finals in both the 100 meter and 300 Intermediates, finishing third place in both events.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Charges filed in Florence Burgs; Eugene police cite concern about a string of abduction robberies and dust off those county roads!
Local Burglary Suspects Arrested and Charged…
A string of burglaries in vacant homes in a subdivision under construction just off Munsel Lake Road have led to six arrests. The first incident was reported last week. Three unoccupied homes in the Spruce Village Subdivision were reportedly damaged when doors were forced and hand tools valued at less than $500 were taken. A break in the case came at 3:30 yesterday morning when a private security firm reported suspicious circumstances in the same area. Florence Police Officer Len Larson spotted a group of males running toward a car parked in the area and was able to detain two of them. Four others escaped on foot. An investigation yesterday determined that the two burglaries were related, and also led to the identification of all suspects. Three adult males were cited and released in relation to yesterday’s incident… all 18-years old, all of Florence… Roy Sigmund, Nathaniel Potts and Trevor Smith. Two Florence juveniles and one from Veneta were referred to Lane County Juvenile Court in the matter. The two Florence juveniles also face charges relating to the May 27th episode.
Police in Eugene are now saying that a string of abduction robberies… three of them in the past six days… indeed may be related. Detective Dan Braziel (bruh-ZILL) says all three of the robberies involved two suspects who compelled women to give them an ATM card and drive the men to banks or cash machines to withdraw money.
200 – “I cannot indicate whether or not a weapon was shown, I can say that the suspects did threaten violence. These victims were scared for their lives at the time, they are emotional and upset as anybody would be.”
Braziel says he’s very concerned and in ten years he’s never experienced this type of robbery. Two of the incidents were after dark, but another was in broad daylight. In each case the suspect information was similar… one of the alleged robbers is a white man in his early to mid 20s, between 5’5” and 5’9” with a slender build. The second suspect is described as having darker skin and is between 5’7” and 5’9” with a muscular build.
Lane Count Public Works maintenance crews will be applying dust abatement treatments to several West Lane County roadways over the next few weeks. The material, Lignin Sulfate is an organic non-petroleum product approved by the National Marine Fisheries Service. Applications will begin on gravel county roads in the Florence, Mapleton and Dunes City area Monday the eighth. The following day crews will be applying in the Swisshome area and then in the Deadwood area on Wednesday, June 10th.
A contractor is set to begin work stripping and repainting the draw-span portions of the Siuslaw River Bridge as early as this week. Equipment for the work is being assembled in a staging area on the south end of the Highway 101 span. When work begins, most of the traffic impacts will take place between eight pm and seven am, although crews will be reportedly on the job 24-hours a day. It’s part of a two-year $5.3-million renovation of the 73-year old structure.
Oregon’s beach monitoring program is up and running for the summer season. Water samples were taken at 72 coastal locations up and down the coast last week with those same locations being monitored every two weeks. Locations are selected on past incidents of possible contamination from coastal septic systems or livestock runoff. No beaches in Lane or Douglas Counties are included in the monitoring program.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
If the 1,850 foot gain in elevation doesn’t take your breath away, the stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean will for sure. The seventh annual Cape Mountain Ten-Mile Trail Run is set for Saturday, June 20th. Access to the race start is at mile-post 3.5 on Horse Creek Road, just south of Sea Lion Caves. Organizer Jim Archer says pre-registration is available online at www-dot-goodrace-dot-com. The $35 entry fee includes a Nike Dri-Fit shirt. Proceeds from the race benefit the Siuslaw Track and Cross Country teams.
Free sports physicals will be available one more time for central coast athletes. Siuslaw Athletic Director Andy Grzekowiak (grizz-KO-ee-ack) said the Dunes Family Health Clinic in Reedsport will be offering no-cost checkups a week from today, June 9th, at 6:30 PM. He says student athletes need to have a physical form signed by their parents.
A string of burglaries in vacant homes in a subdivision under construction just off Munsel Lake Road have led to six arrests. The first incident was reported last week. Three unoccupied homes in the Spruce Village Subdivision were reportedly damaged when doors were forced and hand tools valued at less than $500 were taken. A break in the case came at 3:30 yesterday morning when a private security firm reported suspicious circumstances in the same area. Florence Police Officer Len Larson spotted a group of males running toward a car parked in the area and was able to detain two of them. Four others escaped on foot. An investigation yesterday determined that the two burglaries were related, and also led to the identification of all suspects. Three adult males were cited and released in relation to yesterday’s incident… all 18-years old, all of Florence… Roy Sigmund, Nathaniel Potts and Trevor Smith. Two Florence juveniles and one from Veneta were referred to Lane County Juvenile Court in the matter. The two Florence juveniles also face charges relating to the May 27th episode.
Police in Eugene are now saying that a string of abduction robberies… three of them in the past six days… indeed may be related. Detective Dan Braziel (bruh-ZILL) says all three of the robberies involved two suspects who compelled women to give them an ATM card and drive the men to banks or cash machines to withdraw money.
200 – “I cannot indicate whether or not a weapon was shown, I can say that the suspects did threaten violence. These victims were scared for their lives at the time, they are emotional and upset as anybody would be.”
Braziel says he’s very concerned and in ten years he’s never experienced this type of robbery. Two of the incidents were after dark, but another was in broad daylight. In each case the suspect information was similar… one of the alleged robbers is a white man in his early to mid 20s, between 5’5” and 5’9” with a slender build. The second suspect is described as having darker skin and is between 5’7” and 5’9” with a muscular build.
Lane Count Public Works maintenance crews will be applying dust abatement treatments to several West Lane County roadways over the next few weeks. The material, Lignin Sulfate is an organic non-petroleum product approved by the National Marine Fisheries Service. Applications will begin on gravel county roads in the Florence, Mapleton and Dunes City area Monday the eighth. The following day crews will be applying in the Swisshome area and then in the Deadwood area on Wednesday, June 10th.
A contractor is set to begin work stripping and repainting the draw-span portions of the Siuslaw River Bridge as early as this week. Equipment for the work is being assembled in a staging area on the south end of the Highway 101 span. When work begins, most of the traffic impacts will take place between eight pm and seven am, although crews will be reportedly on the job 24-hours a day. It’s part of a two-year $5.3-million renovation of the 73-year old structure.
Oregon’s beach monitoring program is up and running for the summer season. Water samples were taken at 72 coastal locations up and down the coast last week with those same locations being monitored every two weeks. Locations are selected on past incidents of possible contamination from coastal septic systems or livestock runoff. No beaches in Lane or Douglas Counties are included in the monitoring program.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
If the 1,850 foot gain in elevation doesn’t take your breath away, the stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean will for sure. The seventh annual Cape Mountain Ten-Mile Trail Run is set for Saturday, June 20th. Access to the race start is at mile-post 3.5 on Horse Creek Road, just south of Sea Lion Caves. Organizer Jim Archer says pre-registration is available online at www-dot-goodrace-dot-com. The $35 entry fee includes a Nike Dri-Fit shirt. Proceeds from the race benefit the Siuslaw Track and Cross Country teams.
Free sports physicals will be available one more time for central coast athletes. Siuslaw Athletic Director Andy Grzekowiak (grizz-KO-ee-ack) said the Dunes Family Health Clinic in Reedsport will be offering no-cost checkups a week from today, June 9th, at 6:30 PM. He says student athletes need to have a physical form signed by their parents.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Senior center bids, Rotary education grant, fire damages home and an alternative education
Senior Center Bid Process to Begin…
Construction on a new senior center in the City of Florence could be underway by late summer. The City Council is expected to decide tonight to go out for bid on a construction proposal for the five-thousand square foot facility on Kingwood Street. Most of the construction costs will be paid from an $800-thousand Community Development Block Grant that was prepared and submitted by Jan Nieberlein. She said initially the proposal was for a pre-manufactured building, but the city’s architectural firm suggested that they not limit themselves to any one type of construction.
214 – “He spec’d it for both, what they call stick built, which is site built and for a modular and it’s going out for bid that way.”
If the process is approved tonight, bids would be opened and a contract awarded in early July, with construction on the new center to begin sometime in August.
The garage of a house on 37th street sustained heavy damage late Wednesday night, but the actions of one of the occupants prevented spread of a fire to the living portion of the home. A crew of about 20-firefighters worked into the early morning hours of Thursday to extinguish the blaze at 1910 37th Street. According to Fire Marshall Sean Barrett the occupants of the Home, Rob Poe, Carrie Gries (GREEZ) and three children, all got out of the home safely. Barrett said Poe discovered the blaze and his actions – quote – “saved the home” by making sure the garage door was closed as they evacuated. Barrett said the cause of the blaze was still under investigation.
Mapleton school teacher John Wagner will spend much of his summer break building what he hopes will be a long-term relationship between his students and residents of Guatemala. Wagner, who teaches foreign languages and math, is the recipient of a $3-thousand fellowship grant from the Florence Rotary Club. The money will pay for an extended visit to the South American country. Wagner says as a result of the trip he hopes to establish and on-going relationship between Guatemalan and American students. Florence Rotary President Dee Osborne says the purpose of professional development grants provided by the club are critical to the overall education, health and government of the area.
Parents of pre-school and kindergarten age students in Florence will have a chance tomorrow to find out more about an alternative education experience that emphasizes a – quote – “multi-sensory approach”.
215 – “Maria Montessori noticed that children take information into the brain by first learning it through their hands.”
Patricia Immel says the Florence Montessori School will begin its third year of classes in the fall. They have two classes totaling about 20-students aged three to six. An open house tomorrow from 4:30 to six pm will allow parents a chance to learn more about the philosophy. That’s at St. Andrews Episcopal Church at 19th and Tamarack Street.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
College Baseball:
The season came to an end last night in Forth Worth, Texas for the Oregon State Beavers. They began regional play in the NCAA Tournament Friday with a 9-8 win over Texas A&M, then lost to TCU Saturday afternoon 13-1. A second victory over A&M yesterday, 13-5, set up a rematch with Texas Christian last night.
The Beavers took an early 4-nothing lead, but the Horned Frogs chipped away at it with one run in the third, then tied it with three runs in the fifth. The score remained knotted until the bottom of the ninth when the Frogs scored on a walk-off RBI Single to right field. TCU advances to the Austin Super-Regionals this weekend… Oregon State heads home with a 37-19 overall record for the season.
Construction on a new senior center in the City of Florence could be underway by late summer. The City Council is expected to decide tonight to go out for bid on a construction proposal for the five-thousand square foot facility on Kingwood Street. Most of the construction costs will be paid from an $800-thousand Community Development Block Grant that was prepared and submitted by Jan Nieberlein. She said initially the proposal was for a pre-manufactured building, but the city’s architectural firm suggested that they not limit themselves to any one type of construction.
214 – “He spec’d it for both, what they call stick built, which is site built and for a modular and it’s going out for bid that way.”
If the process is approved tonight, bids would be opened and a contract awarded in early July, with construction on the new center to begin sometime in August.
The garage of a house on 37th street sustained heavy damage late Wednesday night, but the actions of one of the occupants prevented spread of a fire to the living portion of the home. A crew of about 20-firefighters worked into the early morning hours of Thursday to extinguish the blaze at 1910 37th Street. According to Fire Marshall Sean Barrett the occupants of the Home, Rob Poe, Carrie Gries (GREEZ) and three children, all got out of the home safely. Barrett said Poe discovered the blaze and his actions – quote – “saved the home” by making sure the garage door was closed as they evacuated. Barrett said the cause of the blaze was still under investigation.
Mapleton school teacher John Wagner will spend much of his summer break building what he hopes will be a long-term relationship between his students and residents of Guatemala. Wagner, who teaches foreign languages and math, is the recipient of a $3-thousand fellowship grant from the Florence Rotary Club. The money will pay for an extended visit to the South American country. Wagner says as a result of the trip he hopes to establish and on-going relationship between Guatemalan and American students. Florence Rotary President Dee Osborne says the purpose of professional development grants provided by the club are critical to the overall education, health and government of the area.
Parents of pre-school and kindergarten age students in Florence will have a chance tomorrow to find out more about an alternative education experience that emphasizes a – quote – “multi-sensory approach”.
215 – “Maria Montessori noticed that children take information into the brain by first learning it through their hands.”
Patricia Immel says the Florence Montessori School will begin its third year of classes in the fall. They have two classes totaling about 20-students aged three to six. An open house tomorrow from 4:30 to six pm will allow parents a chance to learn more about the philosophy. That’s at St. Andrews Episcopal Church at 19th and Tamarack Street.
TAKING A LOOK INTO COAST RADIO SPORTS:
College Baseball:
The season came to an end last night in Forth Worth, Texas for the Oregon State Beavers. They began regional play in the NCAA Tournament Friday with a 9-8 win over Texas A&M, then lost to TCU Saturday afternoon 13-1. A second victory over A&M yesterday, 13-5, set up a rematch with Texas Christian last night.
The Beavers took an early 4-nothing lead, but the Horned Frogs chipped away at it with one run in the third, then tied it with three runs in the fifth. The score remained knotted until the bottom of the ninth when the Frogs scored on a walk-off RBI Single to right field. TCU advances to the Austin Super-Regionals this weekend… Oregon State heads home with a 37-19 overall record for the season.
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