Pacific City Sun, December 16, 2022

Welcoming the Whales

Tillamook County Planning

Vol. 16, No. 409 • December 16, 2022 FREE – TAKE ONE NRPD’s Christmas Parade to hit the streets on Dec. 16 9 SUN

Suspects charged with murder of man found dead in Tillamook Forest

Two suspects have been charged with the murder of a 52-year-old man found dead in Tillamook State Forest after a Tillamook County Sheriff’s deputy, while making campsite visits on Dec. 2 in the East Fork of the Trask area of TSF, located the deceased man in a campsite.

Evidence found on scene indicated the man had been shot, and his vehicle had been stolen. Spent cartridges and a firearm were also located on scene.

Investigators quickly identified two persons of interest as Alyssa Z. Sturgill, 40, and Lisa M. Peaslee, 41. Reportedly, based on previous contacts with law enforcement, it was known that both Sturgill and Peaslee were living in their car at the same location where the victim was found in the Tillamook Forest, and their vehicle was still at the location. The victim had been staying in a nearby campsite.

At that time, it was believed Sturgill and Peaslee were involved in the shooting and had stolen the victim’s light blue 2002 Toyota Sienna minivan. A call to locate Sturgill, Peaslee and the minivan was sent out to all Western United States law enforcement agencies.

On Sunday, Dec. 4, Sturgill and Peaslee were stopped in the victim’s minivan by Sheriff’s Deputies in Mineral County, Nevada. Peaslee and Sturgill were taken into custody on local Nevada charges, including Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, and were held on a no-bail hold.

Application period for fish passage grants opens next year

In early January 2023, ODFW expects to issue a request for proposals for projects that maximize fish restoration and support fish recovery goals, with RFPs likely due on Jan. 31.

Water users like irrigation districts, municipal suppliers, commercial industries, watershed councils, soil and water conservation districts and individual users are encouraged to apply.

Applicants interested in securing funds for projects are being advised to start putting together applications now including a project budget, description of the fish restoration value, overall priority of the project, available match, and detailed project proposal. Applicants also must document the cooperation and permission from all pertinent landowners and water users.

Applicants are encouraged to discuss potential projects with ODFW’s fish screening and passage staff prior to submission if they have questions or to review project value and implementation plans.

To be eligible, projects must be a high priority fish passage or screening project; must have a signed landowner agreement

prior to approval; and must identify how passage and screening will be maintained after implementation. Projects associated with fulfilling mitigation requirements will not be accepted.

Funds are focused on projects that support projects described in a conservation and recovery plan; are listed on the ODFW Statewide Fish Passage Priority List (https:// www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/passage/ docs/2019%20Fish%20Passage%20 Priority%20List.pdf); benefit ESA and State Sensitive listed species; provide access or improved access to a large quantity of highquality habitat; meet current fish screening criteria for fish screen; and provide a timeline, including permit acquisition, that results in project implementation by Dec. 31, 2024.

cascadian dark ale

On Dec. 5, arrest warrants for Sturgill and Peaslee, and a search warrant for the victim’s minivan, were signed by Tillamook County Circuit Court Judge Mari Trevino. TCSO’s Detective Sgt. Michelle Brewer and Detective Chase Ross have traveled to Nevada to serve Sturgill and Peaslee and to begin the extradition process of returning the duo to Tillamook County to face charges of Murder in the Second Degree, Assault in the First Degree, Unlawful Use of a Firearm and Theft in the First Degree.

“We are extremely grateful for the professionalism and the cooperation of all of the agencies involved that led to the quick apprehension of these two criminals,” said Brewer.

“Those agencies include Tillamook 911, Oregon Department of Forestry, Tillamook Police, Oregon State Police and Crime Lab, Tillamook County District Attorney’s Office, and Mineral and Washoe County Sheriff’s Offices in Nevada.”

This investigation is ongoing.

Oregon State Parks to host Whale Watch Week in person for the first time since 2019

For the first time since 2019, Oregon State Parks will host Whale Watch Week in person along the Oregon Coast Dec. 28 - Jan. 1.

Every year thousands of Gray whales migrate south through Oregon’s waters at the end of December, and Oregon Parks and Recreation Department invites visitors to the coast to see their journey.

Trained volunteers will be stationed at most of the 17 sites to help visitors spot whales, share information and answer questions from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily. The sites are some of the best places to watch for whales on the Oregon Coast.

“We really enjoy getting folks out to the coast for Whale Watch Week,” said Park Ranger Peter McBride.

“It’s something that Oregon State Parks has been doing for more than 40 years now, and we’re really glad to be able to bring it back in person,” he said.

Though in pre-Covid years, Cape Kiwanda has been one of the spots manned by volunteers, that won’t be the case this year. The closest spot planned to be staffed with volunteers is Cape Meares. To see a map of all volunteer-staffed sites, visit the official event webpage at https://oregonstateparks.org/index. cfm?do=thingstodo.dsp_whaleWatching.

An estimated 19,000 Gray whales are expected to swim past Oregon’s shores over the next several weeks as part of their annual migration south to the warm calving lagoons near Baja, Mexico. The end of December is the peak time for their migration; roughly 30 whales pass by per

hour.

The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay will be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. Visitors to the center can enjoy interactive whale exhibits and take in the panoramic ocean views. Binoculars are provided. Rangers from Oregon State Parks will also be on hand to answer questions about the whales.

All Whale Watch Week visitors are encouraged to dress for the weather, to bring binoculars and to follow beach safety guidelines such as remaining out of fenced areas, knowing the tide schedule and keeping an eye on the surf at all times. Visit https://visittheoregoncoast.com/beachsafety/ for a list of safety tips.

For more information about coast parks and campgrounds, visit oregonstateparks. org.

CAPE MEARES will be the closest volunteer-staffed location to Pacific City during Oregon State Park’s Winter Whale Watch Week, Dec. 28-Jan. 1. TRAINED volunteeers

be stationed at most of the 17 sites participating at the Oregon State Parks Winter Whale Watch Week.

CAPE MEARES will be the closest volunteer-staffed location to Pacific City during Oregon State Park’s Winter Whale Watch Week, Dec. 28-Jan. 1.

Photo courtesy of OPRD

Photo courtesy of OPRD

Photo courtesy of OPRD

Sahhali South is a residential oceanfront development on the Oregon Coast located in picturesque Neskowin. Nestled on over 80 pristine, beachfront acres, Sahhali South offers oceanfront lots for sale with private beach access. Build the home or townhome of your dreams! Commune with nature with sweeping 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean, unspoiled wetlands, and the Oregon Coast Mountain Range. Lots range in price from $159,000 to $249,000

The Year Ahead in Tourism Destination Management

By Nan Devlin, Executive Director, Tillamook Coast Visitors Association

Over the last two years, Pacific City has been the beneficiary of longterm destination planning. The Kiwanda Corridor Project got off the ground with the purchase of the Jenson property, and the development plan was approved that will bring parking, parks, trails and more.

Destination management has been happening around the county, too. These are some of the projects underway, managed by Tillamook Coast Visitors Association (TCVA).

Access to outdoors

TILLAMOOK COAST VISITORS ASSOCIATION is sponsoring the Co-Starters® program, a 10-session business development course that takes participants from business idea to access to capital.

of childcare and workforce housing, and there does not seem to be any easy or quick answers.

Tillamook County Planning Commission hopes ADUs will provide relief in housing crisis

By CHELSEA YARNELL for the Sun

Some county officials say accessory dwelling units in Tillamook County may create some new housing opportunities for local residents — a philosophy that was behind the Tillamook County Planning Commission’s Dec. 8 vote to recommend approval on a proposed ordinance that, if approved by Tillamook County Commissioners, would establish standards for accessory dwelling units in which the units would be permissible on a property in residential zones located in unincorporated Tillamook County communities.

“In the staff report included for this request…we know that we have a significant future demand (for housing),” Tillamook County Community Development Director/ Building Official Sarah Absher said. “We know that we have a deficit and a shortage for housing units for our missing middle and long-term rentals. Some areas have a zero percent rental availability. We know that we must take action to provide additional housing opportunities for residents of Tillamook County and diverse housing opportunities.”

The proposed ordinance outlines that an ADU is a “subordinate dwelling unit which provides complete, independent living facilities for one or more persons including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, cooking, eating and sanitation on the same lot or parcel as the primary dwelling.”

support to the Planning Commission.

“As a local resident, building contractor, experienced designer and builder of custom, small-footprint dwellings, remodels, conventional new construction and someone who is interested in solutions to affordable housing issues, I wholeheartedly encourage the sensible implementation of ADUs in the County Land Use Ordinances,” Schlicting wrote. “Giving property owners more freedom to develop an additional dwelling on their property could very effectively, expediently and efficiently increase rentable housing stocks, thereby reducing the need for public programs that are well intentioned, but realistically and unlikely to fulfill that goal in a timely manner.”

The Tillamook County Housing Commission submitted a letter of support for the Ordinance, signed by Vice Chair Kris Lachenmeier.

“Passage of this Ordinance as written can help provide a near-immediate response to our current housing crisis,” the letter read. “When permissible, ADUs can be constructed or designated on existing properties with minimal potential barriers. Available only to long-term renters, this Ordinance provides a win-winwin scenario. Homeowners gain an added source of income, employers benefit from an increased supply of workforce housing, and home-seekers will have more rental options at rents they can afford.”

The Housing Commission approved their letter of support at their Dec. 1 meeting.

This year, TCVA added more beach wheelchairs, bringing the total to nine. They are available in Manzanita, Nehalem Bay State Park, Rockaway Beach, Barview Jetty County Park, Port of Garibaldi, Cape Lookout State Park, and Pacific City. More information is available at tillamookcoast.com/mobility.

Next year, we hope to add a David’s Chair, an electric beach chair that can also be used on trails and riverbanks, and allows the user to securely stand up. We also want to add beach mats; however, they do require daily maintenance. Our public works departments are shorthanded, so we’re forming volunteer groups that can assist.

Trail upkeep is also a priority. TCVA is working with Trailkeepers of Oregon to encourage volunteers with trail maintenance. Which leads us to…

Tillamook Coast Volunteer Adventures

Dan Haag, our outdoor accessibility manager, has developed a program that combines education, volunteer activity, and a locally sourced meal. He reached out to several regional companies and nonprofits, including big-name businesses, and has secured commitments from them to bring employees to the coast to help on projects. Those projects will include trail maintenance as well as other projects.

This is a program we’ve long wanted to make it happen, and Dan has made it a reality. We will soon have a website page with more information.

Workforce Training

Our hospitality businesses survived COVID, but are still struggling with lack of workforce. Businesses have increased wages, but other issues are hampering hiring. The two biggest factors are lack

Despite those challenges, TCVA is working on two major programs: expanding our Guest Service Gold training, a nationally certified program for front-line workers. While it is designed for hospitality industry, we’ve trained city employees and nonprofits.

The other program is Pro-Start®, a high school program of the National Restaurant Association and Oregon Restaurant and Lodging Association. Students get college credit for a yearlong course in hospitality business and culinary training. This program has been in place in Lincoln City and Seaside for several years, and juniors and seniors are eligible to take part. Our plan is to partner with Tillamook Bay Community College, and to secure funding to help pay for summer internships at local hospitality businesses. More information to come.

Entrepreneur Support

Want to start your own business? Or rethink your current business?

Partnering with the Tillamook Chamber of Commerce, TCVA is sponsoring the Co-Starters® program, a 10-session business development course that takes participants from business idea to access to capital. Brought to Tillamook County by Reinventing Rural, which started in eastern Oregon, Co-Starters is a proven method for turning your dream of starting a business into reality. There is no fee to participate. For more information, go to: reinventingrural. com/costarters/core.

TCVA has many more destination management programs in place or about to start. We’ll announce them throughout the year, and we welcome participation.

Additional guidelines require that ADUs be set on a permanent foundation, be no larger than 75 percent of the size of the primary home or 800-square feet (whichever is smaller), and cannot be used as a short-term rental.

“It may provide someone on a property (the opportunity) to utilize their primary dwelling for other purposes, but still remain and live on their property,” Absher said.

If commissioners pass the ordinance, it will affect the residential areas of unincorporated communities in Tillamook County including: Neahkahnie, Mohler, Barview-Watseco/Twin Rocks, Idaville, Siskeyville (Wilson River Road), Oceanside, Netarts, Beaver, Hebo, Pacific City/Woods, and Neskowin.

“I urge you to pass this Ordinance. We talk about a housing crisis, and I actually call it a catastrophe,” CARE Executive Director Peter Starkey said at the meeting. “We’re at a very opportune time to be put in a place where our entire community is being outpriced. I can say from my experience, that right now, there’s as close to zero percent rental rate as you can get. At CARE, we have the ability to provide rental assistance. I currently have eight slots where I will pay somebody’s rent up to 75 percent; I can’t find apartments. Not a single one in the entire county.”

Starkey reported that CARE estimates that there are more than 250 individuals in Tillamook County that are “unstably housed,” meaning couch surfing, living in cars, or truly homeless.

Biff Schlicting (Neskowin), owner of Pinecone Design+Build, submitted a letter of

PACIFIC CITY JOINT WATER-SANITARY AUTHORITY

NOTICE OF BOARD VACANCY

Effective September 13, 2022, Pacific City Joint Water-Sanitary Authority (PCJWSA) is accepting applications for the unexpired term of Board Position #5. Applications are available at the PCJWSA office located at 34005 Cape Kiwanda Dr. Pacific City, Oregon 97135 or on line at www.pcjwsa.com. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Applicants must be an elector of the Authority, live within the boundaries of PCJWSA and be willing to attend scheduled meetings. For more information, please call 503-965-6636.

John Wesely, Authority Manager

“What we’re learning in resort communities, similar to our own, is that people are coming around and starting to understand that ADUs are one tool in the toolbox to moderately and modestly increase density within communities,” Housing Coordinator Thomas J. Fiorelli said. “We’re not talking about apartment complexes or about massive projects. Where people were used to saying, ‘They don’t want this,’ are now saying that ‘They do want this.’”

Tillamook County Commissioner Erin Skaar is the liaison to the Housing Commission and encouraged members to widely share their support of the proposed ordinance.

“As commissioners, one of our greatest challenges is making sure the community, that doesn’t know they need to be looking for this, sees this ahead of a contentious public meeting,” Commissioner Skaar said. “(If people only show up with anger) it makes it very, very difficult to get a positive outcome for everyone. That’s why my request and urging today is make sure we talk to everyone.”

The Board of County Commissioners will host a hearing for the Ordinance at 9 a.m. on Jan. 30, 2023, in the BOCC meeting room in the Tillamook County Courthouse. At that time, the proposed ordinance can be adopted and placed in effect. Comments and letters regarding the Ordinance can be submitted up to the Jan. 30 meeting.

The Planning Commission unanimously approved their recommendation to be submitted to the BOCC.

Stepping Up

By CHELSEA YARNELL for the Sun

Pacific City-Nestucca Valley Chamber of Commerce President Glenn Gillas joked he’s open to ideas of how to identify the local citizen population.

“A thought for another meeting,” Gillas chuckled during his opening remarks at the 21st Annual Chamber Awards Banquet.

The awards banquet was hosted on Dec. 6 at the Kiawanda Community Center to celebrate and recognize the work and success of the Chamber, its members and locals during the past year.

Gillas described 2022 as the year where the Chamber was finally back to as normal as could be after the pandemic.

“This was the ‘Year of Stepping Up,’” Gillas said. “The last couple years have been a shadow of what it’s been. We came back this year roaring to go.”

Part of that, Gillas said, came during Dory Days when the Chamber-sponsored fish fry sold out. Half the monies from the fundraiser are dedicated to acquiring a new audio system for the KCC.

“This will not only help the KCC, but the rest of the community,” Gillas said. “It is something to expand into in the future especially with the county purchasing [property] to the south of us. We’re not counting our chickens before they hatch, but we’re getting ready.”

Gillas also updated attendees that, in the last year, the Chamber office moved into the KCC.

“We’re a lot more visible (and) accessible to visitors here,” Gillas. “We’re able to give better directions to local businesses and attractions.”

Bill Oram, sports columnist for the Oregonian , was the special guest speaker for the evening. A 2004 Nestucca High School graduate, Oram went on to graduate from the University of Montana where he earned a degree in journalism.

He has worked as a reporter in Utah and California, most recently covering the Los Angeles Lakers. Closer to home, his writing career began in South County as a student sports reporter for the Tillamook Headlight Herald

“I covered sports, even the ones I played,” Oram laughed. “Like the one where benchwarmer Bill Oram scored two heroic free throws…in a game we lost.”

While Oram has interviewed some of the greatest sports figures of our time, he beams with hometown pride.

“I’m very proud to be from South

County. That’s something that I carry with me,” Oram said. He recounts the time he wore a Pelican Brewing hat for an interview with Lebron James. Or the fact that for years his Lakers credentials were worn on a Tillamook Creamery lanyard.

“I’m so grateful for South County and all of you,” Oram said. “When the people who watch you grow up think that you’ve done something meaningful enough with your life that they ask you to come home and speak, that’s an incredible honor.”

The night’s event culminated with the presentation of the Chamber recognitions and awards.

A $1,000 check was awarded to the Cloverdale Nestucca Valley Lions Club for volunteering at the 2022 Reach the Beach event, a fundraiser for the American Lung Association. Chamber members and Lions Club volunteers manned this year’s bike corral and helped park approximately 800 bicycles. The Chamber also received a $1,000 check for helping with the event.

The Pacific City Dorymen’s Association was recognized for their annual Dory Days celebration. The Chamber presented the Dorymen with a check for $1,800 as their portion of the event’s proceeds.

“It’s always a scary event when we start,” Dorymen’s Association Ray Monroe said after accepting the check. “In the end, it always perfect. And the money always goes right back into the community.”

Monroe told the Sun that the funds will be dedicated to their program financial support pot that gives back to several programs in the area including: the Nestucca Senior Scholarship, the food bank, the backpack program, the Lions Club, Nestucca Rural Fire Protection District, KCC, Trick-or-Treat the Dory Fleet, and the state parks.

“The partnership and the people who stepped up this year to help make the parade and the fish fry happen was a great collaborative effort,” he said.

The Chamber award for Special Individual Recognition was awarded to Oregon Rep. David Gomberg (D-Otis)

“We cannot dispute that this man shows up,” Chamber Treasurer Doug Olson said as he presented the award. “He shows up, up and down the coast and is very active in the coastal caucus.”

With the redrawing of districts, Gomberg will no longer be representing Tillamook County in the House.

“To be in a room with hard-working Oregonians, it is very humbling to be recognized this way,” Gomberg said. “I’ll miss Tillamook County incredibly much, and the jokes I get to tell. Like, ‘We use

our cows more than once here.’”

This year, the Chamber selected two community members to receive their Volunteer of the Year award.

“We have a pretty passionate discussion about the nominees,” Chamber Board Member Jeremy Strober said. “We always say that the same 12 people do everything in this community, but every now and then a volunteer stands out.”

The first was awarded to Fred Whittlinger, president of the Cloverdale Nestucca Valley Lions Club. Whittlinger is also a CERT member and volunteers his time at just about every local event — including Dory Days and Clover Days.

“He shows up and helps out,” Strober said.

The second Volunteer of the Year award was given to Kimberly Miller for her creation of the “What’s Up Pacific City?!” Facebook page as well as for her efforts volunteering as the chair of the Dory Days Parade.

“It’s such a valuable source in our community,” Strober said. “It’s so special that we could not try and replicate it as a Chamber if we tried. It’s brilliant.”

The Facebook group features questions, promotions, event listings, and community information for locals and visitors to the Pacific City area.

“I’m incredibly humbled,” Miller said upon receiving her award. “Thanks to you all. Pacific City wouldn’t be what it is without you.”

Pacific City Hardware and Lumber was named Business of the Year.

As one of the oldest businesses in Pacific City, Pat and Emily Hurliman work hard to ensure their storefront has what

customers are looking for.

“They are working in the background of our community,” Gillas said. “They always have what you need. They sponsor events, youth sports, and give back to the community.”

The last award of the evening was dedicated to Citizen of the Year.

Olson told the audience that Pacific City Postmaster LeEtte Duncan relocated to Pacific City from Minnesota and quickly grew to like the community.

“She’s learned a lot about you from when you’re picking up your mail,” Olson said, whose comments were met with chuckles from the audience.

But, her vigilance and quick actions this past summer earned her the title of Citizen of the Year.

Back in July, Pacific City Postmaster LeEtte Duncan saved a local couple from losing $99,000. A scam caller convinced the couple that he was a bank representative and that they needed to send money to a P.O. Box in order to protect their savings. After sending the money, and becoming nervous that the transaction was a scam, the couple reached out to Duncan for help.

Duncan was able to contact the Express Mail clerk just in time and the envelope was intercepted, saving the couple from losing their life savings.

“If we engage with our customers, we can encourage communication to prevent scams of this type,” Duncan said back in July.

This year’s Chamber event featured a live oral auction that brought in roughly $2,500 for the Chamber. The dinner menu was designed and prepared by Grateful Bread Restaurant and Bakery.

The Chamber serves all of South Tillamook County including the communities of Beaver, Cloverdale, Hebo, Hemlock, Neskowin, Oretown, Pacific City, Tierra Del Mar, and Woods. The Chamber has met continuously since the 1950s and current membership numbers include more than 100 businesses and individuals. The Chamber meets the first Tuesday of each month at the KCC at noon. All meetings are open to the public.

“Volunteers in this community are what make things happen,” Gillas said. “We welcome any and all volunteers who would like to step up and be a member.”

For more information on joining the Chamber, visit pcnvchamber.org.

Chamber honors citizens, businesses for their contributions in celebration of community emerging out of pandemic’s shadow

What do you call people from Pacific City? Pacific Citians?

THE PACIFIC CITY-NESTUCCA VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE honored 2022’s top contributions at its Dec. 6 awards banquet. Those earning accolades included Citizen of the Year LeEtte Duncan (above, at left), and Co-Volunteers of the Year Kimberly Miller (below, at left) and Fred Whittlinger (below, center). Accepting the award for Business of the Year was Pacific City Hardware owner Pat Hurliman (below, far right). PCNV Chamber President Glenn Gilas presented that award.

Photos by Chelsea Yarnell

ARTIST RECEPTION

Dec. 16, 5-7 p.m. Lincoln City Cultural Center, 540 NE Hwy. 101. Enchanted Ground – a show by artists Janet Runger and Veta Bakhtina. For more information, visit lincolncity-culturalcenter.org or call 541-994-9994.

HOLIDAY POP-UP SHOW & ARTIST’S RECEPTION

Dec. 16, 3-6 p.m. Headlands Coastal Lodge & Spa, 33000 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Selections of works by Shannon Carlson, Liisa Rahkonen, Kearney Rathaus, Lori Vonderhorst, Michele Rigert, Katie Kyle, and Patrick Horsley. Presented in conjunction with Rowboat Gallery. For more information, call 503-965-4590.

CHRISTMAS BASKET PROGRAM VOLUNTEER DAY

Dec. 16, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Hebo Fire Station, 30710 Hwy. 101. Volunteers needed to fill food boxes and wrap gifts.

‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE’ –LIVE RADIO PLAY

Dec. 16, 7 p.m. and Dec. 17, 2 & 7 p.m. Lincoln City Cultural Center, 540 NE Hwy. 101. Live radio play of “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Admission $20. For more information, visit lincolncityculturalcenter.org or call 541-994-9994.

‘THE NUTCRACKER’

Dec. 16, 7 p.m. and Dec. 17, 2 p.m. Tillamook High School, 2605 12th St., Tillamook. Oregon Coast Dance Center’s 15th annual performance. Admission $10 ages 13 and up; $5 for ages 4-12, and free for 3 and under. For more information, call 503-842-7447.

‘NARNIA: THE MUSICAL’ Dec. 16 & 17, 7 p.m. and Dec. 18, 2 p.m. Bay City Arts Center, 5680 A St. Tickets by donation. Limited seating available – reserve tickets at baycityartscenter.com. For more information, call 503-377-9620.

TRIVIA NIGHT Dec. 17, 5-6:30 p.m. PC-Pour Wine Bar, 33310 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Free admission. Must be 21 or over. Test your trivia knowledge. Sign-up at PC-Pour.com.

CHRISTMAS PORCH PARADE Dec. 17, 5 p.m. Al Griffin Memorial Park, corner of 4th and Trade Sts., Bay City. Car and house decorating contest. Prizes. Decorated houses must register at City Hall.

WINTER WONDER CHORAL CONCERT Dec. 17, 4 p.m. Chapel by the Sea, 2125 SE Lee Ave., Lincoln City. 40 voice choir will present a mix of seasonal songs. Suggested donation $10 per person or $20 per family. For more information, call 541-996-2070.

FREE CPR EDUCATION EVENT Dec. 18, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Rockaway Beach Fire Dept., 270 S. Anchor St., Rockaway Beach. Arrive at any time and receive first aid and CPR information and practice.

4-H RECOGNITION SKATING PARTY Dec. 18, noon-3 p.m. Tillaskate at Tillamaook County Fairgrounds, 4603 3rd St., Tillamook. Short awards program and then skating. Lunch will be provided.

AUDUBON SOCIETY OF LINCOLN CO. ANNUAL CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT Dec. 18. Backyard counters needed from Fishing Rock to Cascade Head to Otis. For more information, visit lincolncityaudubon. org.

TILLAMOOK COUNTY WALKING GROUP Dec. 19, 21 & 23, 10 a.m. Meet at Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda

Dr., Pacific City. For more information, visit https://tillamookcountywellness.org/movewell/walking-groups/ or contact coordinator Kathy at katystar7@hotmail.com or 503-8017448 (text).

TILLAMOOK COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING

Dec. 21, 9 a.m. Tillamook County Courthouse, room 106. Live video available at tctvonline.com. For agenda, visit co.tillamook.or.us/bocc.

CANDLE MAKING

Dec. 23, 5-6:30 p.m. PC-Pour Wine Bar, 33310 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. Learn to make a custom candle. $35 fee includes supplies, instruction, and first glass of wine. Sign-up at PC-Pour.com.

SOUTH TILLAMOOK COUNTY WALKING GROUP

Dec. 26, 28 & 30, 10 a.m. Meet at Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. For more information, visit https://tillamookcountywellness.org/movewell/walking-groups/ or contact coordinator Kathy at katystar7@hotmail.com or 503-8017448 (text).

NESTUCCA VALLEY LIONS CLUB MEETING Dec. 27, 6 p.m. The Lion’s Den, 34510 Parkway Dr., Cloverdale.

SOUTH COUNTY FOOD PANTRY

Dec. 27, 12:30-6 p.m. Nestucca Valley Presbyterian Church, 35305 Brooten Rd., Pacific City.

TILLAMOOK COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING

Dec. 28, 9 a.m. Tillamook County Courthouse, room 106. Live video available at tctvonline.com. For agenda, visit co.tillamook.or.us/bocc.

WINTER WHALE WATCH WEEK

Dec. 28-Jan. 1, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Volunteers will be available up and down the coast to help people spot migrating gray whales. For more information, visit OregonStateParks.org or ORWhaleWatch.org.

PAINT & SIP

Dec. 30, 5 p.m. PC-Pour Wine Bar, 33310 Cape Kiwanda Dr., Pacific City. $35 fee includes instruction, supplies, and first glass of wine. Sign-up at PC-Pour.com.

CHAMPAGNE EXTRAVAGANZA

Dec. 31. Twist Wine Co., 34930 Brooten Rd., Pacific City. Champagne by the glass, champagne cocktails, Kir Royals, and champagne flights available. For more information, call 503-437-0189.

NEW YORK NYE WITH

THE LINCOLN POPS

Dec. 31, 7-10 p.m. Lincoln City Cultural Center, 540 NE Hwy. 101, Lincoln City. Music and dancing Big Band style. Tickets include light appetizers and champagne toast; beer and wine sold separately. Tickets $38-$45. For more information, visit LincolnCity-CulturalCenter.org or call 541-994-9996.

MANZANITA POLAR PLUNGE

Jan. 1, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Neahkahnie Beach, Manzanita.

SILETZ BAY SPLASH

Jan. 1, 10 a.m. Taft Dock on 51st St., Lincoln City. Meet on the beach and enjoy a quick jump into Siletz Bay. Hot cocoa, fire, s’mores and more. For more information, call 503994-2131.

The Ocean Policy Advisory Council, at its Dec. 9 meeting, recommended Audubon Society of Lincoln City’s proposals to designate Cape Foulweather and Cape Lookout as new Marine Conservation Areas. The proposals next go to the Land Conservation and Development Commission for review and approval before state agencies officially designate these MCAs. LCDC has it on its Feb. 3 agenda.

OPAC recommended these two MCAs along with four other new designated sites along the Oregon coast. The other sites are at Chapman Point and Ecola Point north of Canon Beach, Fogarty Creek near Depoe Bay, and Blacklock Point north of Port Orford. If LCDC approves these site designations, they will be added to an inventory of rocky shorelines listed in the state’s Rocky Habitat Management Strategy. Otter Rock Marine Garden, north of Newport, is an example of a site designation already in the inventory.

The Cape Foulweather Complex MCA, located south of Depoe Bay, encompasses 1.9 miles of rocky shoreline from the mean high tide outward to include the nearshore

rocky reefs. The area is home to thousands of nesting seabirds. Underwater kelp forests growing on the reefs support local fisheries. Visitors to the Cape can look down from cliff tops to watch feeding whales.

The Cape Lookout MCA encompasses three miles of the shoreline and nearshore waters wrapping around Cape Lookout State Park. Thousands of seabirds nest along the cape’s south cliffs. The MCA includes tidepools, underwater kelp forests, nearshore reefs, a sea cave and marine mammal haulouts.

“Management of the MCAs emphasize stewardship and education rather than regulation to protect natural resources,” said Dawn Villaescusa, president of Audubon Society of Lincoln City.

She said no changes are being recommended to regulations for fishing or harvest of shellfish and most other commonly harvested invertebrates. Boat access and anchorage are not affected.

For more information about the Cape Foulweather and Cape Lookout proposed MCAs, and the Rocky Habitat Management Strategy, visit Lincolncityaudubon.org.

Photos by Tim Hirsch

Cape Lookout recommended as new Marine Conservation Area

CAPTAIN SANTA arrived on a dory boat to give Christmas treats to the younger set during the Kiawanda Community Center’s Christmas Bazaar on Dec. 3.

ORIGINAL, hand-made Christmas gifts and festive fun were the order of the day when St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Cloverdale (above) and Kiawanda Community Center (at left) in Pacific City hosted Christmas bazaars on Saturday, Dec. 3. It is a longstanding tradition for both locations to host a Christmas bazaar on the first Saturday of December.

Photos by Tim Hirsch

A Hike through the Forest

Sitka Sedge State Natural Area is amongst state parks participating in guided, first day hikes on Jan. 1

Sitka Sedge State Natural Area will be amongst the 20 Oregon State Parks that will feature guided “First Day Hikes” led by rangers and volunteers on New Year’s Day — Sunday, Jan. 1.

Officials are advising participants for the full suite of hikes to be ready to bundle up with family and friends and join the hikes to learn about park history, geology, wildlife and plants at parks around the state from the high desert to the coast. Hikes are free and the $5 day-use parking fee is waived that day for all state parks that require a parking permit and are open.

The noon Sitka Sedge hike will start at the parking lot and take participants along the Beltz Dike and through the Sandlake Estuary. It promises participants chances for bird watching, whale watching, mushroom identification, and more. The 2.5-mile hike will then continue through a loop trail though the forest, a trek that will also include views of the estuary. Sitka Sedge is just north of Tierra Del Mar on Sand Lake Road.

A second Tillamook County hike will

be at Netarts Bay State Park, starting at 9 a.m. It will feature a two-mile hike on the Nehalem Bay Loop Trail.

“A guided hike is a great way to kick off 2023 in the outdoors and begin a new tradition or continue a longstanding family tradition,” said Lisa Sumption, director of the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. “As our centennial year comes to a close, we’re excited to begin the next 100 years of Oregon State Parks and continue to offer year-round recreation.”

Visit stateparks.oregon.gov and click on “Things to Do” to see all first-day hikes as well other state park events. A few hikes require registration.

Photos of First Day Hikes can be shared via Twitter and Instagram by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes or tagging “Oregon State Parks” on Facebook.

First Day Hikes is a national initiative to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, promote exercise and encourage connecting with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has participated since 2012.

VOLUNTEERS will lead a first day hike on Jan. 1 at Sitka Sedge State Natural Area starting at noon.

Photo by Tim Hirsch