Oregon Coast News - December 16, 2009
Daily news and sports coverage for the Oregon coast plus a variety of guides and directories useful to Oregon residents and visitors.
Shots fired
A 45-year old Coquille woman was arrested on charges of Attempted Murder, Menacing, Unlawful Use of a Weapon and Attempted Assault II after a Douglas County Tactical Team made entry into a residence on Trinity Lane, off of Lee Valley Road between Coquille and Myrtle Point Tuesday morning. According to a news release from the Coos Co. Sheriff’s Office, the incident began the night before between Cora Sue Anderson and her 49-year old sister. Anderson allegedly took out a high-powered rifle and fired it at Caroline Hastens and her neighbor 50-year old Glenn Horner about 9:45 p.m. They escaped the residence without injury. Deputies were summoned and surrounded the residence. The Tactical Team arrived about 9 a.m. Tuesday morning. At about 10:50 a.m., they entered the residence and found the suspect passed out “due to her state of intoxication.” Anderson was taken to the county jail at Coquille.
College sees significant improvement in annual audit
The Southwestern Oregon Community College Board of Directors was presented with the annual college audit by Wall & Wall P.C. Monday night, Dec. 14th. The Fiscal Year 2009 audit (July 1, 2008 - June 30, 2009) as presented was technically still a draft, as the audit firm was still completing a section related to GASB (Government Accounting Standards Board) Statement No. 45. Auditor Rob Wall expects to have a final F09 audit complete within a week. In 2008, the college faced many budgetary challenges and transitions in leadership that contributed to twelve findings in their F08 audit. The new F09 audit thoroughly demonstrates that Southwestern has fully corrected all but one of the previous findings, explaining in detail the corrective actions taken for each. “A tremendous effort has been dedicated to correcting and mitigating these challenges,” said Linda Kridelbaugh, Vice President of Administrative Services. According to the F09 report, a reduction in funding from the Community College Support Fund and other budgetary considerations necessitated a mid-year budget strategy revision. A small reduction in personnel and reduced spending for materials and services resulted in the college ending the year in a relatively strong financial position. “By improving internal controls and processes, they are better able to provide good oversight and stewardship for college activities,” said Wall. There was only one finding, listed as a material weakness, in this year’s nearly 100-page document. According to the audit, the college district does not have adequate and documented accounting, reconciliation, and review procedures in place, nor technical accounting personnel on staff, to prepare accurate financial statements, note disclosures and schedules in compliance with GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) and GASB Statement No. 34 requirements. The finding appears to be amplified by recent GASB changes and requirements affecting the college and other entities. Southwestern retained an outside CPA firm to assist with their conversion, requirements, and necessary schedules, but year-end statements were not initially compliant. As a result, the audit firm compiled required statements, schedules, and note disclosures. Wall & Wall P.C. recommended to Southwestern that they take special precaution to ensure that all accounts are reviewed, reconciled, and appropriately adjusted as required and needed throughout the fiscal year. It was further recommended that a staffing needs assessment of the Business Office be conducted to determine that it has the adequate resources, knowledge, staff, training, and expertise needed to proactively manage and report the college district’s required financial and reporting activity. However, Wall spent more time speaking of what Southwestern had done right than the areas for improvement. “To decrease from twelve findings to one finding, there has been a lot of hard work done by the Board, administration and the business office,” said Wall. “Really a significant improvement.” The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants Statement on Auditing Standards stipulates that Southwestern has the option of hiring a third party to prepare the financial statements or opt to have the auditor prepare them knowing the result will be a finding. Had the college been able to complete their statements through a third-party CPA, there likely would have been no findings. Southwestern intends to evaluate the current organizational structure and staffing requirements of the Business Office and continue to utilize consultants as needed to address GAAP and GASB requirements. “I think this audit really represents the tremendous work that the college did from one year to the next,” said David Bridgham, Board Chair. “This is really a job well done.” The Board unanimously voted to accept the F09 audit report as prepared by Wall & Wall P.C., noting that there would be minor changes upon its completion. An annual audit is required of municipal corporations per ORS 297.425 to review the principles of accounting and methods used; the accuracy and legality of transactions and records; and, compliance with requirements and regulations of other public agencies. Auditing firms are required by the “scope of work” in the audit agreement to give a presentation to the Board following completion of their Southwestern Oregon Community College audit, providing the Board with the opportunity to ask questions before the audit report is officially accepted. Copies of the audit report draft are distributed to Board members prior to the presentation meeting. The final F09 audit will be available on the Southwestern website (www.socc.edu). “The Board and this administration are really trying to do what is right and are headed in the right direction,” summarized Wall.
Nature study: Hypoxia tends to increase as climate warms
A new study of Pacific Ocean sediments off the coast of Chile has found that offshore waters experienced systematic oxygen depletion during the rapid warming of the Antarctic following the last “glacial maximum” period 20,000 years ago. The findings are intriguing as scientists are exploring whether climate change may be contributing to outbreaks of hypoxia – or extremely low oxygen levels – along the near-shore regions of South America and the Pacific Northwest of the United States. Results of the study, by researchers at Oregon State University, have been published in Nature Geoscience. It builds on a series of field studies by researchers at OSU begun more than a decade ago through the Ocean Drilling Program, led by chief scientist Alan Mix, one of the study’s authors. The researchers focused their study on the influence of Antarctic Intermediate Water, a huge water mass that extends outward from the Antarctic, infusing Southern Hemisphere oceans with cold, highly oxygenated water – and extending all the way to the Northern Hemisphere. Climate models suggest that these intermediate waters should have had higher concentrations of oxygen during the last glacial period, but scant evidence backed those assertions. However, the OSU researchers were able to use core samples through the Ocean Drilling Program to analyze sediments from three sites off the Chilean coast to calculate the dissolved oxygen on the seafloor. They measured levels of manganese and rhenium to reconstruct oxygen levels, which they found began decreasing about 17,000 years ago, as warming accelerated and Antarctic glaciers began to recede. “When there are high levels of oxygen in the water, there are higher levels of manganese in the sediments,” said Jesse M. Muratli, a master’s student in OSU’s College of Oceanic and Atmospheric Sciences and lead author on the Nature Geosciences study. “Rhenium is just the opposite. In highly oxygenated water, it become soluble and tends to dissolve. Together, they help paint a clear picture of oxygen levels.” The researchers say the waters off Chile could have become less oxygenated through two mechanisms – a reduction in the size and scope of the Antarctic Intermediate Water during warming associated with the end of the last ice age, or if those waters simply became less oxygenated. “The water mass forms at the surface where it becomes enriched in oxygen,” said study co-author Zanna Chase, an assistant professor of marine geochemistry at OSU. “Cold weather and wind saturate the water with oxygen and if it gets cold enough, it sinks and this tongue of cold water begins extending northward. Warmer temperatures could restrict oxygen penetration into the Antarctic Intermediate Water, or reduce the production of the water mass.” Mix said the position of mid-latitude winds, known as the Westerlies, plays a key role in the formation of these subsurface water masses. In a previous study, he and his colleagues documented movement of these wind belts, based on pollen from land and marine microfossils. “These wind movements closely track the history of water mass oxygenation,” Mix pointed out. It is not yet clear what effect the findings may have on understanding of the offshore hypoxia events experienced intermittently in the Pacific Northwest over the past eight years. Other researchers from Oregon State University have documented patterns of low-oxygen waters – especially off the central Oregon coast. The worst of these happened in 2006, when oxygen in near-shore waters dipped almost to zero, killing thousands of crabs and other bottom-dwelling creatures. Similar events occur annually off central Chile and the OSU research group is working with Chilean scientists to compare the two systems. Changing wind patterns appear to be to blame for the 21st-century hypoxia – and wind may have played a role 20,000 years ago as well. Previous studies by Mix of sediment cores off Oregon revealed more oxygenation of subsurface waters during the last Glacial Maximum – and, as warming followed the last ice age, the Pacific Northwest region also experienced intervals of hypoxia, he said. “Although this is similar to the effects off Chile, the impacts off Oregon were linked to regional ocean productivity,” Mix said. “These contrasts underscore the importance of studying more than one system. Their differences and similarities allow us to understand the complexity of the ocean and its role in climate change – both in the past, and likely in the future.” The study was supported by the National Science Foundation, the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, and the Ocean Drilling Program. Other authors include James McManus, a professor in OSU’s College of Oceanic and Atmospheric Sciences.
Klamath dams
Not happy with the final proposed agreement over the removal of four controversial dams on the Klamath River of Southern Oregon and Northern California, an environmental group out of Arcata, CA says it is pulling its support of the final document. The Northcoast Environmental Center is allegedly using its position to leverage for other concessions from the participants. According to a spokesperson, the Center is unhappy that the agreement doesn’t call for an immediate removal of the dams, allows farming to continue on the Klamath Wildlife Refuges, and that California’s $250 million share cost is part of a water bond that funds other projects the Klamath Campaign cannot support. The agreement to remove J.C. Boyle, Irongate, and Copco I & II dams, owned by PacifiCorp, is expected to be signed next month. The dams reportedly have adversely impacted Salmon Runs that resulted in the Salmon Crisis on the West Coast.
Rescuer
A 51-year old Benton Co. male was arraigned on Kidnapping, Coercion, Criminal Mischief and Distribution of a Controlled Substance Monday in Corvallis after he allegedly attacked a Good Samaritan who stopped on Hwy. 34 to assist him. David Wilson, of Waldport, was allegedly punched in the face when Christopher Hewitt woke up from a single-vehicle accident the prior week. Wilson found the truck off the road with smoke coming from the engine. Hewitt forced him to drive him to Alsea and threatened him in the process. Hewitt was later taken to a Corvallis hospital where he was arrested.
Body
The body of a 55-year old male was found on a beach near Winchester Bay Saturday morning. The man’s identity, or cause of death, was not released by investigators for Douglas Co. Friday and Saturday search and rescue personnel from Coos and Douglas counties searched the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area for a male reportedly missing in the area.
Regulated Navigation Areas established along Oregon, Washington coasts
A Coast Guard rule to establish Regulated Navigation Areas (RNA) along the Oregon and Washington coasts will become effective Thursday, Dec. 17, 2009. The new rule will have minimal effect on current procedures for restricting operation of recreational vessels and uninspected passenger vessels in the RNA due to unsafe conditions. However, the rule does address new lifejacket requirements for vessels crossing a bar when unsafe conditions exist. These new requirements are based on the type of vessel (recreational boat, uninspected passenger vessels, commercial fishing vessel, and inspected small passenger vessels) and require vessels of a certain length or smaller that are crossing the bar to have personnel on deck don lifejackets when there is a restriction to recreational or uninspected passenger vessels of a determined length. Vessels that have additional safety requirements imposed due to their length are also required to check in with the Coast Guard between sunset and sunrise. The rule streamlines the process of closing bars within the RNA when severe environmental conditions exist. The number of bar closures that occur will not be affected by these regulations. The Coast Guard feels this rule will help mitigate risks associated with the bars and enhance the safety of the persons and vessels operating on and in the vicinity of them. Mariners desiring to cross a bar restricted to them or that is closed are advised to contact the Coast Guard Captain of the Port or the local Captain of the Port designee. Vessels may be permitted to cross on a case by case basis.
Affordable housing
The State Housing Council approved additional funding to housing developers throughout the state, boosting the number of affordable housing units statewide, including one on the Oregon Coast. The Astoria Gateway II project, sponsored by Shelter Resources, received up to $1.7 million for new construction of 33 apartments for low-income families. Other OHCS funds include LIHTC, HOME, Housing Trust Fund and OAHTC. Total project cost: $7.2 million.
Bowling fund-raiser
High School Bowling Team Fundraiser: Drop off your bottles and cans at North Bend Lanes December 20th between 10:00-4:00. Half of money raised will go to Community Action Food Share.
CB/NB VCB
Notice is hereby given that the regularly scheduled board meeting of the Coos Bay – North Bend Visitor & Convention Bureau will be held Wednesday, December 16th, 2009 at 1:30pm at the Red Lion Hotel located at 1313 Bayshore Ave, Coos Bay.
ADVENT OBSERVANCE at Christ Lutheran Church
Christ Lutheran Church and School, 1835 N. 15th St., Coos Bay, will hold an “Advent Event” evening to its observance of Advent, the season of preparing spiritually for the Savior's birthday. The “Event” will be on Wednesday December 16. The evening will begin with a soup supper at 6pm and include craft construction by the children attending to be followed by an informal service of singing and Bible study about the appearance of the angel Gabriel to Zechariah, Mary, and Joseph. The service will conclude by 7:30pm. All are invited.
Assault
A 46-year old North Bend male was arrested Monday night, 5 p.m., on a charge of Assault IV – Domestic, following an incomplete call to 911 from the 2400 block of Broadway Ave. in North Bend. According to an entry on the police log, James Patrick Strobel was taken into custody and the victim was given information on Domestic Violence.
Hitting
North Bend Police officers were unable to locate anyone after a call to 911 Monday, 3:22 p.m., described a “male/female hitting each other in vehicle,” on Virginia Ave., eastbound. An attempt to locate was sent out countywide.
Dog
According to an entry on the North Bend Police log for Monday, 1:05 p.m., 2200 block Lombard St., “reported his dog got out of their yard and is unable to locate. Dog is fawn colored Sharpe, male, 6-7 years old, blue collar with no tags, dogs name is Mr. Miagee, but goes by Yagee. RP later called back to report the dog had returned.”
Fire hydrant
A fire hydrant was reported missing from the intersection of Washington and Sheridan in North Bend. According to an entry on the police log, the hydrant was reported missing from the corner on Monday, 9:20 a.m. “Officers responded / advised unable to locate any evidence of an accident that caused hydrant to be removed / hydrant missing, may have been pulled out by a chain. Report taken Criminal Mischief I and Theft.”
MIP/arrest
According to an entry on the Coquille Police log for Monday, 9:37 p.m., 700 block E. 10th St., Fernando Servin cited for MIP. Twenty-year old Rachel R. Robidoux arrested on a Linn Co. warrant for Failure to Appear, Contempt of Court, and a Lebanon Municipal Court warrant for Failure to Appear, Contempt of Court. She was transported and lodged in the Coos Co. Jail at Coquille.
Yelling
Coos Bay Police & Fire responded to a call Monday night, 4:57 p.m., Lockhart & 4th to a report of a “suspicious subject standing in middle of road yelling at traffic.” Thirty-five year old Ricky Hatchell was arrested on a charge of Disorderly Conduct and transported to the Coos Co. Jail. Medical was requested, “subject extremely intoxicated.”
Accident
A single-motor vehicle accident was reported on Ocean Blvd. in Coos Bay Monday, 12:24 p.m., following a driving complaint. Call was transferred to the Coos Co. Sheriff’s Office. According to an entry on the police log, a 27-year old male was operating the vehicle that wrecked at the east WaterBoard Entrance. “Vehicle smoking.” An entry on the Sheriff’s Office log for 12:29 p.m., had the same party making the complaint at Libby and Wilshire.
Egged
According to an entry on the Coos Bay Police log for Monday, 7:45 a.m., 1700 block Southwest Blvd., a 31-year old male reported “his vehicle was egged.”
Shot at
According to an entry on the Coos Co. Sheriff’s log for Monday, 9:45 p.m., Trinity Lane, a 50-year old male alleged “neighbor lady shot at him.”
Juvenile
According to an entry on the Coos Co. Sheriff’s log for Monday, 9:30 a.m., North Bay School, an employee of Services for Children & Families requested a deputy’s assistance in contacting an “injured/abused juvenile” at the school. “Investigation continuing.”
WX
A high surf advisory is in effect along the South Oregon Coast from 6 p.m. this evening to 10 a.m. Thursday. Widespread rain showers today with highs in the lower to mid 50s and south winds 15-25 mph. Rain tonight with lows in the mid 40s and south winds 10-15 mph. Mostly cloudy with rain likely on Thursday.
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OREGON COAST SPORTS
NB JV bbxb
The North Bend boy’s JV basketball team defeated Reedsport’s Varsity 57-42, Saturday, Dec. 12th. The Bulldogs are now 3-0 on the season.
MHS bxb
Marshfield’s basketball teams are on the road tonight for games in the Willamette Valley and Northern California. The boys play in a tournament at Del Norte High School in Crescent City tonight and Thursday. The girls are at Corvallis High School. Both are non-league games.
PAC-10 bxb
A couple of non-conference men’s basketball games tonight for Oregon and Oregon State. The Ducks (4-4) host Mississippi Valley State tonight at Mac Court in Eugene, while the Beavers (4-4) play at Illinois – Chicago. Oregon’s women (8-1) are at Georgia Tech tonight.
OSU wbxb
Oregon State improved to 6-2 in the preseason with a 58-42 women’s basketball win over visiting UC Irvine Tuesday night at Gill Coliseum in Corvallis. The Beavers host Seattle University on Friday.
OSU fb
Oregon State’s football team leaves Corvallis Friday to fly to Las Vegas for the Dec. 22nd bowl game against Brigham Young University. The Beavers got back to the practice field on Monday, Dec. 14th after time off for finals. Head Coach Mike Riley has five straight bowl wins on the line against the Cougars. OSU enters the game ranked 16th in the nation, while BYU is 15th ranked. The Beavers will practice three days in Las Vegas. After the game, Oregon State quarterback Sean Canfield is slated to play in the Senior Bowl and linebacker Keaton Kristick will go to the Shrine Bowl. Lineman Gregg Peat has also been invited to the Shrine Bowl, but has not made a commitment.
The Bowerman
The nation’s top male and female collegiate track and field athlete for 2009 will be honored tonight in Orlando, Florida with The Bowerman trophy. Named after the legendary Oregon track and field coach who helped inspire the creation of worldwide athletic shoe giant Nike, The Bowerman ceremony is in conjunction with the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association convention. Two of the male finalists are Ducks. Decathlete Ashton Eaton, of Mountain View High School in Bend, and distance runner Galen Rupp, of Portland’s Central Catholic High School. The other finalist is Oklahoma State middle distance runner German Fernandez. The three female finalist are Colorado distance runner Jenny Barringer, Texas high jumper Destinee Hooker and Texas A&M sprinter Porscha Lucas. Oregon won four NCAA team titles under Bowerman in 1962, ’64, ’65, & ’70.
NCAA Track
The NCAA Division I Men's and Women's Track and Field Committee has selected Des Moines, Iowa for the 2011 and 2012 NCAA Division I Men's and Women's Outdoor Track and Field Championships and Eugene, Ore., for the 2013 and 2014 championships. The 2011 and 2012 championships, hosted by Drake University, will be held at Drake
Stadium. The University of Oregon, who will also serve as the host for the 2010 NCAA Outdoor championships will hold the 2013 and 2014 competitions at Hayward Field.
Blazers
LaMarcus Aldridge scored 25-points as Portland beat visiting Sacramento 95-88 in a National Basketball Association game at the Rose Garden Tuesday night. The Trailblazers (15-11) host the Phoenix Suns on Thursday.
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