Oregon Beach News, Monday 1/19 – Florence MLK Jr. Parade, Town Hall for County Clinic in Florence Tuesday & Other Local and Statewide News…

The latest news stories across the state of Oregon from the digital home of the Oregon coastal cities, OregonBeachMagazine.com

Monday, January 19, 2026

Oregon Beach Weather

Winter is here! Here’s the overview of our winter outlook, but be sure to check out what we’re predicting in your area: https://www.farmersalmanac.com/extended-forecast

Beachgoers along the Oregon coast face a moderate risk of dangerous sneaker waves from Monday night through Tuesday afternoon, creating hazardous conditions for anyone visiting beaches, jetties, or rocky shorelines.

According to the National  Weather Service in Medford, a long-period ocean swell is moving into the region, increasing the likelihood of sneaker waves — powerful, unexpected surges of water that can rush far up the beach without warning. The threat window runs from 10 p.m. Monday through 1 p.m. Tuesday.

Officials warn that rocks, jetties, and drift logs are not safe places to stand or sit. Logs along Oregon beaches can float, roll, or trap people underneath when waves surge unexpectedly.

Florence celebrated Martin Luther King’s message of justice, equality, unity and peace Saturday in Old Town Florence

Town Hall for County Clinic in Florence Tuesday 1/20

Lane County Public Health’s Jason Davis says the county will host a town hall meeting to discuss a potential property purchase for a treatment facility in Florence. The meeting is set for January 20 at 6 p.m. at the Florence Events Center and will focus on the county’s proposed purchase of property at 4480 U.S. Highway 101, the former site of a medical office, and plans for a medication-assisted treatment clinic.

County officials say the town hall will include project timelines and an opportunity for community members to provide feedback. The meeting is open to the public, and refreshments will be provided. For more information, davis says you can contact him directly by  email at jason.davis@lanecountyor.gov

Work Session to Focus on FLOCK Cameras in Florence Thursday 1/22

The Florence City Council will hold a work session Thursday, January 22, at 8:30 a.m. at Florence City Hall to continue discussion on the City’s use of the Flock Safety automatic license plate reader camera system. No action will be taken at the work session, though the topic could appear as an action item at the next regular City Council meeting on February 2 at 5:30 p.m.

City officials note the January 22 meeting will not include verbal public comment, but written comments will be accepted. Materials and recordings from a prior special meeting on the issue are available through the City’s Agenda Center.

A magnitude 6.0 earthquake occurred off the Oregon coast on Thursday, January 15, 2026. The earthquake was centered about 183 miles west of Bandon, and no tsunami warning was issued. 

• Magnitude: 6.0
• Location: Approximately 183 miles west of Bandon, Oregon
• Time: Around 7:25 p.m. Pacific Time on Thursday, January 15, 2026
• Depth: About 4.4 to 6.2 miles (7.1 to 10 kilometers)
• Impact: No damage or injuries were reported on shore. Shaking was minimal in coastal communities, with only a limited number of people reporting they felt the quake.
• Tsunami Threat: The U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center confirmed there was no tsunami threat because the earthquake was a strike-slip fault (plates moving side-by-side) within the Blanco Fracture Zone, which does not typically displace enough water to cause a tsunami. 

Earthquakes of this magnitude are not uncommon in this seismically active offshore region (the Blanco Fracture Zone), and generally do not pose a danger to people on the coastline. 

You can see the latest earthquake information on the USGS website or the Pacific Northwest Seismic Network website. Residents who felt the quake are encouraged to report their experience on the USGS felt report page to aid earthquake monitoring efforts. 

Early Morning Structure Fire in Lincoln City

At 4PM a fire broke out in the living structure of Game Over Arcade on 28th and Hwy 101 in Lincoln City. The owner of Game Over Arcade and his family escaped safely after a fire broke out at the business on Northwest Highway 101 on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, prompting a temporary shutdown of the highway as firefighters battled the blaze. Chris and Jenny Donnor along with their two children got out safely.

Chris however was transported to the hospital for burns and cuts on his hands along with smoke inhalation. They have a cat that was inside and no word on if it made it out. A GoFundMe page is being set up.

Nastukka Rural Fire duty crews, along with Grand Ronde and Depoe Bay, assisted North Lincoln Fire & Rescue with a commercial fire at Game Over Arcade in Lincoln City. Thank you to all the first responders. North Lincoln Fire Rescue and others. No known cause of fire at this time.

Highway 229 From Siletz to Kernville Could Take Years To Repair Landslide

Highway 229 remains closed between milepost 14 and 15, from Kernville to Siletz, following a large landslide that occurred on Dec. 12, 2025. The slide destroyed the road, and the highway remains closed to all traffic. Water continues to be one of the biggest challenges at the site and is a key factor affecting the timeline to reopen the highway. Saturated ground conditions limit access and increase the risk of additional movement or new slides. The project team is looking at ways to help the area dry faster, but it’s too early to know what options might work.

ODOT engineers and geotechnical experts continue to evaluate the site. There are still many unknowns, so it’s too early to set a detailed timeline. Based on what is known right now, fully rebuilding OR 229 is expected to take years. The team will continue to assess over the winter months as conditions allow. The landslide is extremely complex and moved in different ways. In some areas, large blocks of soil and rock shifted, while other sections turned into a muddy flow due to so much water. Because of ongoing instability and the potential for additional movement around the edges of the slide, the area remains unsafe to access on foot.

ODOT is working with experts to evaluate the full extent of the slide and develop potential options for how to move forward. The consultant will continue assessment work as conditions allow and is expected to outline possible approaches and timelines once more information can be gathered safely. There is currently no local detour. ODOT has developed a long-term detour plan and is evaluating potential short-term solutions. Crews are in the process of completing detour signage. Once signage is in place, updated travel information will be shared and posted on TripCheck.com.

This closure has a significant impact on the community and travelers. Because this slide destroyed portions of the road and remains unstable, reopening OR 229 is not simply debris removal. It will require extensive investigation, design, funding and construction similar to building an entirely new road. ODOT will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as more information becomes available. To learn about the more than 4,000 identified unstable slopes along Oregon’s highways, visit ODOT’s Unstoppable Slopes, Landslides, Debris Flows, and Rockfalls webpage. (SOURCE)

A Reminder to Use Caution Navigating Winter Weather.

Allow for extra driving time.

Check tripcheck.com or 511 for road closures before traveling.

Do not drive around barricades or onto closed roads.

Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!

Remember, just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.

Reported downed powerlines to your power provider.

Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Our team has an opening for an Animal Shelter Manager!

Salary: $69,790.00 – $93,793.00 Work closely with a great team, volunteers, and of course, furry friends. Full-Time, Benefits, 10 Paid Holidays, Paid Vacation and Sick Leave. Free access to Sheriff’s Office wellness programs and resources, County Employee Assistance Program, and more. Application Deadline: February 4, 2026 Learn more about this position and apply here: https://www.governmentjobs.com/…/animal-shelter-manager… All of our open positions can be found here: https://www.co.lincoln.or.us/748/Join-the-Team

Springfield Assault Suspect Apprehended in Coos County

Captured The Coos County Sheriff’s Office and partner agencies, including State Police and Bandon Police, have captured Marcquis White. There is no further threat to the public. Great job to all involved! ADDITIONAL THANK YOU!!!! To the citizen who provided the tip that led to this peaceful resolution, you are appreciated by all of us here at the Sheriff’s Office.

Coos County, Ore. (Jan. 14, 2026)- Springfield assault suspect taken into custody.

On Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 11:46 a.m., Oregon State Police received information regarding a possible sighting of Marcquis Andrew Lee White (33) who was wanted in connection with an assault that occurred on Monday, January 12, 2026, in Springfield. Bandon Police Chief Cory Dhillon was first to arrive at the location, near milepost 7 on Seven Devils Road, and identified where White had fled down a steep embankment into the brushline. Chief Dhillon was able to direct responding personnel from the Oregon State Police, Bandon Police Deparment, Coos County Sheriff’s Office, and Oregon State Police SWAT team, to White’s last known location. Oregon State Police SWAT personnel were able to locate White and take him into custody without incident.

White was transported to a medical facility for evaluation and will be transferred to the custody of the Springfield Police Department, and ultimately lodged in the Lane County Jail for crimes associated with Monday’s assault.

OSP would like to thank our law enforcement partners in Coos County and the United States Coast Guard for their dedication and persistence over the last 60 hours that led to the successful apprehension of White. For information related to Monday’s assault, contact the Springfield Police Department.

Wildlife Center of the North Coast

 ·We’re thrilled to welcome Oregon Film as a major event sponsor this year, joining our vibrant Wild Coast Film community. And, a very special thanks to Salty Raven for returning as a sponsor! Salty Raven was a major sponsor of the festival last year as well, and we are so grateful for their continued support.

With our sponsors’ generosity, every festival ticket purchased directly benefits wildlife rehabilitation and conservation education at the Wildlife Center of the North Coast.

Together, we’re making a real difference for wildlife and our community. Thank you for being a part of this journey!

For over 30 years the Yachats Lions Club has held an annual Crab Feed event in Yachats, Oregon. The annual trek to Yachats to eat Dungeness crab is a tradition for families and groups from across Oregon, Washington and beyond.

Our annual Yachats Lions Club Crab Feed is DINE-IN on Saturday, January 31, 2026! After selling out in 2025, the 2026 Crab Feed will now offer 4 seatings, 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm at the Yachats Lions Hall and 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm at the Yachats Commons.

Meals purchased will consist of “All you can eat Dungeness crab“, fresh locally baked bread, coleslaw, baked beans, and soda for $50.

Crab Feed 2026 Tickets – All You Can Eat

The $50 per person meal tickets are available for sale online at https://yachatslionsclub.org/ You can select the seating and order as many meals as you like. For more information please send an email to YachatsLionsCrabFeed@gmail.com.

Lion David O’Kelley, coordinator of the popular Crab Feed, says “We are very pleased to be offering the fund-raiser as we have done for so many years.” We get great support from the community and local businesses in Yachats, Waldport and Newport. South Beach Fish Market cooks and cleans the best tasting  local crab you have ever eaten. 

With our motto of “WE SERVE” among the many services we provide eyeglasses and exams, hearing aids and exams, eye screening in Lincoln County schools, pancake breakfasts, crab feed, lunch bunch, speaker series, peace poster and flag day events in our schools, and  ommunity use of our clubhouse. Through community donations to the Yachats Lions Thrift Store our sales allow us to donate to local, student scholarships, food pantries, school programs, projects, and upkeep of the clubhouse.

In addition, donations are made to Oregon Lions Sight and Hearing as well as Lions Club International Foundation.  Lions Club International is the world’s largest service club organization with a network of 1.4 million men and women in more than 200 countries and geographical locations. We serve where we live, as well as globally, and we have fun doing it.  — The proceeds for this fund-raising event are for Oregon Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation.

The Emergency Volunteer Corps of Nehalem Bay Emergency Food Program has exciting news! The Top Emergency Chef Contest is returning – Mark your calendars Tuesday, February 10, 2026

Join us to find out who will be the “TOP CHEF” in the Nehalem Bay area for 2026. Registration is now open, get your tickets now! Click the link to reserve your spot: https://evcnb.org/events-and…/emergency-food-02102026

This event sells out every year – we expect it will again, so please register soon! Registration is limited to the first 100 people who register.

New Online Report Filing With Newport Police Department

This allows people to report several non-emergency incident types to streamline the reporting process and increase the efficiency of NPD Officers handling the calls for service.

Several types of reports are accepted through the online reporting system at https://newportpd.mypdconnect.com/index.html?lang=en.

These report types are:

1- Misdemeanor thefts of property, other than firearms or materials that threaten public safety, when there is no suspect information, serial number or ability to trace the item.

a) Misdemeanor thefts of cellular telephones may be reported even though they have a serial number.

2- Theft from vehicles with no suspect information and no hate crime implications.

3- Misdemeanor vandalism with no suspect information and no hate crime implications.

4- Harassing telephone calls with no suspect information.

5- Identity theft without an identifiable suspect.

6- Online or email fraud solicitations without an identifiable suspect, and if the financial loss classifies the crime as a misdemeanor.

7- Hit and Run vehicle collisions with no suspect or suspect vehicle information.

8- Cold shoplifting complaints reported by business staff when no suspect is on scene. (MyPD Connect has the ability to accept digital evidence uploaded directly with the report. A common practice is to have a business collect video evidence and complete an online report, uploading the digital evidence).

9- City of Newport ordinance violations (example: illegal camps, vegetation complaints, trash, dilapidated buildings).

10-  Abandoned vehicle complaints. (RVs included).

11-  Short Term Rental (STR) violations.

Online reporting is new to NPD and is a work in progress. Please feel free to message us with suggestions for improving how we handle online reporting.

——————————

Para brindar mayor claridad sobre nuestra publicación anterior acerca de nuestro nuevo sistema de presentación de reportes en línea, este permite a las personas reportar varios tipos de incidentes que no son de emergencia, con el fin de agilizar el proceso de reporte y aumentar la eficiencia de los oficiales del NPD al atender las llamadas de servicio.

Varios tipos de reportes son aceptados a través del sistema de reportes en línea en https://newportpd.mypdconnect.com/index.html?lang=es.

Estos tipos de reportes son:

1. Robos menores de propiedad, distintos de armas de fuego o materiales que representen una amenaza para la seguridad pública, cuando no existe información del sospechoso, número de serie ni posibilidad de rastrear el artículo.

a) Los robos menores de teléfonos celulares pueden reportarse aun cuando tengan número de serie.

2. Robos en vehículos sin información del sospechoso y sin implicaciones de delito de odio.

3. Vandalismo menor sin información del sospechoso y sin implicaciones de delito de odio.

4. Llamadas telefónicas acosadoras sin información del sospechoso.

5. Robo de identidad sin un sospechoso identificable.

6. Solicitudes fraudulentas en línea o por correo electrónico sin un sospechoso identificable, y cuando la pérdida económica clasifique el delito como menor.

7. Colisiones vehiculares con fuga (hit and run) sin información del sospechoso ni del vehículo sospechoso.

8. Denuncias de hurto en tiendas reportadas posteriormente por personal de negocios cuando no hay un sospechoso en el lugar. (MyPD Connect tiene la capacidad de aceptar evidencia digital cargada directamente con el reporte. Una práctica común es que el negocio recopile la evidencia en video y complete un reporte en línea, cargando la evidencia digital).

9. Violaciones a las ordenanzas de la Ciudad de Newport (por ejemplo: campamentos ilegales, quejas de vegetación, basura, edificios en mal estado).

10. Quejas por vehículos abandonados (incluye casas rodantes/RV).

11. Violaciones de Alquileres de Corto Plazo (STR).

El reporte en línea es nuevo para el NPD y es un trabajo en progreso. Por favor, no duden en enviarnos mensajes con sugerencias para mejorar la manera en que manejamos los reportes en línea.

NW Natural has released a multi language notice that will also go to every customer regarding how to best identify a NW Natural Utility Worker when they come to your home or are nearby.

There has been reports of ICE agents disguising as utility workers to lure people out of their homes. Please stay aware.

“We are aware of reports of individuals impersonating utility workers in order to gain access to residents. Please note:

Our workers who show up at your home should either be wearing a uniform and a utility badge or wearing a badge that says “CONTRACTOR.” Their vehicles should be similarly marked with a NW Natural company logo and/or “CONTRACTOR.”

If someone comes to your house and asks for access to your home or for you to come outside:

• Our employees will never ask for immediate access to customers’ homes. They often will go to a back or side yard to access a meter.
• In most situations, if there is a reason a NW Natural employee would need to go inside a customer’s home (such as a safety check or inspection), they would have set this up with the customer in advance.

NW Natural is a company based in Coos Bay, OR that specializes in providing natural gas services to residential and commercial customers.

If you want to verify if someone at your home is a NW Natural employee or contractor, you can call our customer service line at 503-226-4211 or 800-422-4012. If you suspect an imposter, call 9-1-1 immediately.” https://www.nwnatural.com/…/2025-utility-and-contactor…

Anticipating Early 2026 Opening, Oregon Seeks to Block Potential Newport ICE Facility

Suspecting the federal government plans to open a large-scale Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility near Newport’s airport early next year, the state of Oregon asked a federal judge to block construction.

Lawyers for the state sought an injunction from U.S. District Judge Ann Aiken in an amended complaint filed last week as part of an ongoing lawsuit challenging the U.S. Coast Guard’s removal of a rescue helicopter from its Newport Municipal Airport facility in late October. They argued that the federal government is skirting federal environmental and coastal land use regulations which would require more notice for Oregon leaders should an ICE facility be constructed in the area.

“Now we have a tool to do something. When all we have are rumors, we can’t plan and we can’t have a real dialogue that helps us convey our community’s concerns,” he wrote. “I hate that it took a lawsuit to get our government to simply talk to us.” (SOURCE)

Coos County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Safety Reminder

As we head into the holiday season and winter weather, roads in Coos County can get slick and busy fast. Let’s all do our part to get home safely.

Slow down – especially on Hwy 101, 42, and our coastal & mountain roads

Buckle up – every seat, every trip

Never drive impaired – alcohol, drugs, or even extreme fatigue

Watch for deer & elk – they’re active this time of year

Turn on those headlights when it’s raining or foggy – Oregon law requires it when wipers are onIf you see a stranded motorist or dangerous driving, call our non-emergency line at (541) 269-8911 or dial 911 in an emergency.We’d rather pull over for coffee than pull you out of a wreck.Drive like the people you love are in the other car.Stay safe out there, Coos County!

Donor Offers $50K Reward in 40-Year-Old Case of Missing Oregon Coast Teen

Lincoln County authorities hope the recent offer from an anonymous donor of a $50,000 reward will lead to the remains of a 17-year-old Siletz girl who was last seen walking on U.S. 20 more than four decades ago.

An anonymous donor put up money hoping it will spur information that leads not only to Kelly Disney’s remains but also to the conviction of her killer, according to the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office.

The DA’s Office has confirmed that an anonymous donor offered the reward for any information leading to Disney’s remains and/or the conviction of her killer.

Information can be submitted anonymously at 541-265-0669 or online at FindKellyDisney@co.lincoln.or.us

READ MORE on CASE: https://lincolnchronicle.org/15597-2/

Wildlife Center of the North Coast · We need your help! 

Make a difference in wildlife rescue! Join our Wild at Heart Membership Program starting at just $5/month. Help us save lives! https://coastwildlife.org/wild-at-heart/

It’s been a busy summer here at the Wildlife Center of the North Coast, and our rehab clinic has gone through lots of supplies caring for patients!!

->> To help us restock and stay prepared for the next wave of wildlife in need, we’ve updated our Amazon Wishlist with the items we need most. https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/LU97SQA0VPZA

Every donation—big or small—goes directly to helping orphaned, injured, and sick wildlife get a second chance at life. Check out our wishlist here: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/LU97SQA0VPZA Thank you for being part of our wildlife rescue family! 

Friends of Haystack Rock  · We have puffins!

Check out our website, Friendsofhaystackrock.org to see them live! We have our webcam zoomed in on a couple active burrows. Your best chance to see them is in the morning between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Volunteers are being sought to help prepare and serve lunch three times a week at the Florence Senior and Activity Center.  

They serve lunch Monday, Wednesday, and Friday each week. Both programs, the in-house dining known as Cafe 60, and Meals on Wheels, are very important in helping promote socialization and nutrition for older adults in Lane County.  Volunteer drivers for Meals on Wheels use their own vehicles, but they can be reimbursed for their mileage.  The Lane Council of Governments operates the Senior and Disabled Services in Lane County.  Alisa Andrion encourages potential volunteers to give her a call at L-COG, 541-682-1366.

Coos Bay Police Department –  WE’RE HIRING 9-1-1 DISPATCHERS

$4684 – $5972/Month DOQ — We offer:•A dynamic team environment •Alternative schedule benefiting work/life balance •Up to 5 weeks paid time off per year after the first year •The opportunity to serve your community

Our team members have come from a variety of work fields- no experience necessary! For additional information from the North Coos 9-1-1 Recruitment Team or to schedule a ride-along please email: join911@coosbayor.govhttps://www.coosbayor.gov/…/Compon…/JobPosts/Job/126/107

Gleneden Beach Community Club Events

Look what’s coming up soon at the Club… (sign up at glenedenbeach.org)

Emergency Volunteer Corps of Nehalem Bay

Follow on Facebook: Emergency Volunteer Corps of Nehalem Bay

Oregon Food Bank · Find free food sites near you using OregonFoodFinder.org.

If you can’t make it to a food location, someone else can pick up food for you.You will just need to print and fill out the Authorized Representative form at https://lnkd.in/dsskUpkQ, and have them take it with them to the food sites. You can find step-by-step instructions at https://lnkd.in/dVBRxn-A.

Worried about recent changes or losing assistance?

Here are resources that can help:

211Info:  Dial 2-1-1 or visit the211Info food webpagefor information and referrals to more than 1,500 food resources across Oregon.

Oregon Food Bank:  Use the Oregon Food Bank’s Food Finder Mapto find over 100 food pantries, free food markets or hot meal programs near you. 

Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon (ADRC): Call 855-673-2372 or visit theADRC food webpage to find local meal programs and food boxes in your area. 

Coast Guard OKs new I-5 bridge over Columbia River without movable span

Washington and Oregon will not have to build a bridge with a movable span to accommodate tall marine vessels when they replace the aging Interstate 5 bridge across the Columbia River, the U.S. Coast Guard decided on Friday.

Instead, the states can go with a less expensive fixed span that provides 116 feet of clearance above the river. The savings from this design will be welcome news for the states, which are confronting rising cost estimates for the multibillion-dollar project before construction is even underway.

Coast Guard officials informed elected leaders and transportation officials in the two states Friday that it issued a “preliminary navigation clearance determination” that is good for three years. 

The approval “will eliminate the only stoplight on Interstate 5, put an end to commute interruptions, and save millions in construction costs,” said U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Washington.

“The vast majority of the maritime community agrees that the new bridge design will not only allow river commerce to continue but also improve safe passage down the river,” added Cantwell, the senior Democrat on the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, which oversees the Coast Guard. 

Cantwell had pressed Admiral Kevin E. Lunday, Commandant of the Coast Guard, for a decision by Jan. 16.

“This is the right decision for our economy, and for commuters who use this bridge every day,” Washington Gov. Bob Ferguson, a Democrat, said in a statement issued by the Interstate Bridge Replacement Program. “A fixed span bridge has overwhelming support from the maritime industry, businesses and community groups.”

Oregon’s Democratic Governor Tina Kotek, in the same news release, said the bridge replacement program now has “the clarity it needs to advance and position us to build a safer, multimodal river crossing and corridor that will serve both states for generations.”

Washington state Sen. Marko Liias, D-Edmonds, said he was “really excited to see that the Coast Guard listened to the communities. We’re one step closer to getting this bridge replaced.” 

Liias, the chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, said this is “a really critical decision point” that allows planners to drill down on what the bridge might look like and the costs.

Not everyone cheered Friday’s news.

“I’m disappointed. The Coast Guard’s job is to protect navigation not only for today but for the future,” said Washington state Rep. John Ley, R-Vancouver, an ardent project foe. With a decision that will lead to less clearance under the bridge, “you are truly restricting marine traffic in a big way.”

The existing bridge rests on wooden piles in potentially unstable soils and is in danger of collapse in a major earthquake. One span is over a century old. Its design is known as a movable span. When tall vessels travel under it, traffic is stopped and a section is lifted to create a clearance of 178 feet. It is lowered once the vessel has passed through.

A fixed span has always been the official first choice of Washington and Oregon. Supporters of the project predict fewer crashes, faster commutes and more transit options when the new bridge is done.

While Friday’s announcement answers one major question, others, such as what the bridge will cost, when construction will begin and when traffic will finally drive on it, remain unknown.

Program managers are looking to get federal government sign-off on an environmental review and a record of decision so contracts can be negotiated this year. Once rolling, construction is expected to last until at least 2032.

Compensating companies

U.S. Sen. Patty Murray of Washington and former Oregon senator Mark Hatfield first discussed the need for replacing the bridge in 1992, though it wasn’t until roughly 20 years ago that preliminary engineering and environmental work started.

Because the height of the bridge could affect ship traffic on the Columbia River, the U.S. Coast Guard is one of the federal agencies with sway over permitting.

There’s been concern about how the Coast Guard might act since 2022, when it responded negatively to an initial permit request, saying a fixed span would “create an unreasonable obstruction” for taller vessels for the service life of the bridge.

But it didn’t say “no.” Instead, it outlined concerns and gave the two states time to respond.

That came in October when the two states and the Interstate Bridge Replacement Program submitted an updated Navigation Impact Report reiterating the argument that a fixed span bridge “is the best design option” and would continue to provide access for 99% of river traffic.

Washington and Oregon also told the Coast Guard that they are prepared to pay $140 million to four businesses that would be directly affected by the lower bridge height because they own or operate vessels that navigate the Columbia River, or manufacture products shipped under the interstate bridge.

Agreements were negotiated with each company. The two states cited the pacts in their effort to convince the Coast Guard that the agency’s navigation concerns had been resolved.

The affected companies are Thompson Metal Fab, Inc. and Greenberry, which are fabricators, JT Marine, a marine shipyard services company, and Advanced American Construction, a company that partners with Vigor Marine Group on marine construction. 

Records obtained by the Standard show the two states agreed to pay $89,990,000 to Thompson, $46.9 million to Greenberry, $2.2 million to Advanced American Construction and $2 million to JT Marine.

State and project officials view the payments as cost-effective because a movable span would be more expensive to build, by an estimated $500 million to $1 billion before inflation. Money to the companies would only be paid if contracts are signed and construction begins.

John Rudi, chief executive officer of Thompson Metal Fab, sent a letter to the Coast Guard in December endorsing a fixed span. 

“The agreed mitigation will preserve the jobs and manufacturing capability in Clark County and the Portland Metro area,” he wrote. “We are also members of the community and recognize the need for a bridge as proposed by IBR.”

Friday’s decision is the second time the two states secured Coast Guard support for a fixed-span. It happened in 2013 when the undertaking was known as the Columbia River Crossing. The project also had a record of decision from the federal highway and transit administrations, allowing it to proceed.

Political opposition and funding challenges stalled the project at that time. Both the earlier approvals from the federal government have since lapsed.

Rising price tag

For the past couple years, project planners have said the price tag for replacing the bridge ranges from $5 billion to $7.5 billion, with the likely figure of around $6 billion. And they’ve said constructing a movable span would be $500 million more than a fixed-span.

In September, legislators said they anticipate the total could reach $10 billion based on rising costs with other projects.

Project planners have been recalculating the estimate for months. 

Joe Cortright, a Portland economist and project critic, said earlier this month that the revised expense could range between $12.2 billion and $17.7 billion based on public records he obtained and shared with reporters. 

Funding is coming from several sources. Each state has committed about $1 billion. Tolls — which will be imposed in both directions on the existing bridge starting in 2027 and managed by Washington — are relied on for a minimum of $1.2 billion. Oregon has a moratorium on any tolls other than the bridge.

Federal grants totaling $2.1 billion were awarded last year under the Biden administration. 

Planners are pursuing $1 billion from the Federal Transit Administration’s Capital Investment Program. This would help pay for a 1.9-mile extension of light-rail from North Portland to a future station near Evergreen Boulevard in Vancouver, Washington. A decision on that funding isn’t expected until the project is further along.

The question of cost should become clearer in the coming weeks, Liias said.

“We know it will be more than the resources we have,” he said Friday. “We will have to figure out how we phase it.”

He has previously said work may need to be delayed for some of the nearly 30 separate items — from new bus shelters to off-ramp improvements — in this endeavor.

Finding the money is going to be a long-term challenge, Ley said.

“At the end of the day, whether the price is $12 billion or $14 billion or $17 billion, the two states do not have the money,” he said. “I don’t know how they can get it.”

Oregon Capital Chronicle reporter Mia Maldonado contributed to this report.

Correction: This story was updated to correct the spelling of John Rudi’s name.

This story was originally produced by Washington State Standard, which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network which includes Oregon Capital Chronicle, and is supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. — (SOURCE)

Supreme Court tariffs decision could shape Oregon’s economic outlook after steady 2025

If the Supreme Court strikes down some tariffs without backup revenue source, it could mean higher costs for Oregonians after nearly avoiding a downturn last year.

Oregon’s economy held up better than many expected in 2025, even as fears of a recession dominated much of the year, according to state Chief Economist Carl Riccadonna. 

He said job growth has started to return, especially in the service sector, and state tax revenues have stayed steady — a sign that people are still working and spending. Those trends, he said, suggests Oregon “muddled through” a challenging year, avoiding a major downturn, and could see improvement in 2026.

President Donald Trump’s tariffs were a major source of uncertainty last year, but Riccadonna said their impact on everyday Oregonians was more muted than predicted. While manufacturing has taken a hit as companies adjust to higher costs and shifting supply chains, many consumer prices did not rise as sharply as feared. In some cases, he said, foreign companies lowered their own prices to stay competitive, easing the burden on shoppers.

Looking ahead, Riccadonna said tariffs could still affect household finances in less obvious ways. If the Supreme Court strikes down some tariffs without a replacement source of revenue, the federal government may need to borrow more to pay for the tax cuts, which could push interest rates higher. That would mean higher costs for mortgages, credit cards and auto loans.

In the following excerpt, Riccadonna breaks down the Supreme Court’s decision on tariffs affect Oregonians and what it might mean for the larger economy. The transcript has been edited for clarity. This interview was filmed on Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026. https://www.kgw.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/straight-talk/supreme-court-tariffs-decision-could-shape-oregons-economic-outlook-after-steady-2025/283-7bae1989-51a8-48ac-819b-181a9e8f4452

Oregon Governor Kotek taps Republican rival to boost business relations

Oregon Public Broadcasting first published this article. —– In December, Gov. Tina Kotek announced that Oregon was open for business. For help, the Democratic governor is turning to a Republican who might be best known for shutting down the Legislature.

Kotek announced Wednesday that she is hiring former state Sen. Tim Knopp as her new chief prosperity officer.

The former longtime lawmaker from Bend will be tasked with meeting Kotek’s goal of finding ways to ease burdens on businesses and stem a recent tide of job losses.

“To be successful, this role demands a unique set of skills — an entrepreneurial spirit, a systems thinker, and equal parts pragmatism and persistence,” Kotek said in a release Wednesday. “Tim is going to be a great part of my team, and I am grateful that he has agreed to step up and serve Oregonians.”

Beginning next week, Knopp will work in Kotek’s office alongside other staff, earning $191,658 a year. But it wasn’t long ago that he was a major thorn in the governor’s side.

During the 2023 legislative session, he led Senate Republicans on a six-week walkout that all but shut down legislative action and raised the prospect lawmakers would not be able to pass a budget on time.

As a result of that boycott, Knopp was barred from seeking reelection in 2024. He currently works as executive vice president of the Central Oregon Builders Association, a role he will depart to join the governor’s team.

“When the Governor calls on you to drive prosperity for Oregonians across the state, grow the economy, and support Oregon businesses, the answer is yes,” Knopp said in a statement. He did not respond to inquiries from OPB.

Kotek announced her business prosperity initiative in early December, on the eve of announcing her reelection bid.

The effort includes a 16-member “prosperity council,” tasked with recommending public policy changes that can make it easier to build and grow businesses in Oregon, and juice the state’s reputation for business nationwide. Kotek announced members of that council last week. It will meet in private.

A recent study from CNBC ranked Oregon 39th in the country in terms of overall business environment — far lower than the state’s showing in previous years. Kotek said she want’s to get the Beaver State into the top 10.

In his new role, Knopp will work alongside the prosperity council, but also look for actions the governor can take on her own to assist businesses.

Kotek’s selection has drawn widespread surprise in business circles this week, with some privately expressing skepticism at the choice. Knopp doesn’t have an extensive background in economic development.

Outward signs suggest Kotek struggled to fill the prosperity officer role. The governor initially pledged to announce a hire by New Year’s Day, but four members of the state’s business lobby told OPB inquiries to several possible candidates were not successful. A spokeswoman for Kotek declined to comment on who the governor sought for the job. (SOURCE)

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek is advocating for the implementation of chip-enabled EBT cards for SNAP.

Skimming devices have been employed to unlawfully obtain card information, and chip-enabled cards are significantly harder to replicate. Two months prior, Kotek announced a hunger emergency following the cessation of federal SNAP benefits. Kotek asserts that the suspension of benefits compelled state agencies to collaborate with local and tribal governments, food banks, and community providers, which contributed to bridging existing gaps.

Implementing Trump’s tax law to cost Oregon $114 million in SNAP investments

Lawmakers met at Oregon Capitol ahead of the 2026 legislative short session

The Oregon Department of Human Services says it needs $114.6 million from the state’s general fund to fill gaps in its 2025-27 budget because of cuts and other changes to federal food assistance. 

The long-awaited funding request comes after Oregon lawmakers in 2025 set a two-year budget days before President Donald Trump signed a major tax and spending law in July that drastically changed the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, by adding work requirements, limiting benefits for noncitizens, creating more eligibility checks for people enrolled in the program and increasing the administrative cost burden for states. 

The timing left lawmakers scrambling to respond to unforeseen budget changes affecting the one in six Oregonians who rely on SNAP. 

The department’s funding request has support from Gov. Tina Kotek, who on Tuesday reflected on the results of her 60-day food emergency during the government shutdown that left thousands of Oregonians without access to their SNAP benefits. She directed $5 million to Oregon’s statewide food bank network and $1 million to the nine federally recognized tribes in Oregon. The state received a $6 million match from Oregon Disaster Funders Network. 

“We acted quickly to help get emergency food to families, restore SNAP benefits as soon as the courts allowed, and support the community organizations that step up every day to feed people,” Kotek said in a statement. “That leadership saved lives — and it sets the standard for how Oregon will continue to respond.”

Despite the state’s quick response to the disruption of benefits, Oregonians are already seeing the impacts of the new federal law. 

“We have households who saw reduced benefits because of changes in utility cost calculations, legal asylees and certain refugee populations lost SNAP eligibility entirely and work requirements expanded from six counties to all 36 counties across the state — increasing verification compliance demands on both clients and the state,” said Nate Singer, the agency’s eligibility program director. 

Singer, alongside other Oregon Department of Human Services staff, gave lawmakers a breakdown of what federal SNAP changes may cost Oregon ahead of the 2026 legislative short session. 

Oregon now has to split SNAP benefit costs with feds

The agency is requesting $39 million for the 2025-27 budget cycle to invest in improving the state’s SNAP payment error rate. 

SNAP benefits previously were 100% federally funded, but the new law requires any state with a SNAP payment error rate above 6% to pay between 5% and 15% of benefit costs beginning October 2027. Oregon’s error rate in 2024 was 14%, and it’s mostly because of people not reporting their incomes on time and receiving either too much or too little in benefits, Singer said.

The agency has consulted with states with low error rates and experts to make a plan to lower its own and minimize its financial liability, Oregon Department of Human Services Deputy Director Dana Hittle told lawmakers. 

“The resulting plan focuses on the operational basics, such as call center performance management of teams, improving training for staff and communications to clients, as well as integration of artificial intelligence and other technology solutions to streamline and improve processes,” Hittle said. 

It would need an estimated $450 million in the 2027-29 budget if the state’s error rate doesn’t improve. 

Administrative cost sharing

The agency is requesting $54 million to cover the increase in SNAP administrative costs the state must pay from 50% to 75% beginning October 2026. This amount is meant to cover the change in the 2025-27 budget cycle. 

The agency is requesting $142 million for the 2027-29 budget cycle. 

“This means a significant increase in general fund obligations just to maintain core operations for us,” Singer said. “These are your eligibility, workers that process and do hearings, call centers, customer supports, our vendor contracts, system maintenance — all these areas shift the cost from the federal government to the states significantly 

Investing in SNAP card security

To address increasing reports in electronic benefit transfer SNAP cards, the state will seek $7.1 million from the general fund to support transitioning SNAP cards to chip-enabled cards to strengthen security against skimming and fraud. 

There’s been more than 10,600 instances of validated theft of benefits worth $4.1 million since 2023, according to the agency.

“At its core, this budget request is about helping Oregonians meet their basic needs, food on the table and access to health care and services,” Hittle said. (SOURCE)

Klamath County teachers ratified what leaders are calling their best contract in decades, winning some measures that teachers in the district have been fighting to achieve for more than 20 years.

As county teachers celebrated their victory Monday evening at Henley Elementary School, they said that the win came in the eleventh hour — and that the movement from their district puts more heat on Klamath Falls City Schools going forward.

“We won our strongest contract with the best raises in 20 years by staying united until the end and refusing to give up on the belief that we could secure a contract that would address turnover in our District,” said PJ Gonyaw, a fifth grade teacher at Klamath County Public Schools and co-president of the Klamath County Education Association. “We were stuck on finances up until 20 minutes before the end of our final session, when we finally got the good news that our District had stepped up and decided they do value us and were going to figure it out.”

“This victory shows that educators should stick to their convictions — and that districts that respect us will pay us like they do,” said Jen Todd, a middle school ELA teacher in Klamath County Public Schools and co-president of the Klamath County Education Association. “Budgets reveal priorities. We hope that Klamath Falls City Schools follows the example that Klamath County Schools just set and finally makes movement to offer their educators more than poverty wages. If they don’t, they’ll quickly lose their educators to other Districts that do value them.”

One of the largest non-economic victories was securing comp time for elementary teachers, who sometimes have to take on an entire second class when substitutes aren’t available — something for which they have fought for more than 10 years.

The Oregon Education Association noted, “Klamath Falls City Schools, a separate district but one that watches moves by the County school district closely, pays their lowest paid educators poverty wages under $16 an hour. Classified educators there earning poverty pay demanded mediation shortly before the holidays, after Klamath Falls City Schools cancelled Christmas for their employees by refusing to settle a contract with living wages.”

Klamath County educators and Klamath Falls City Schools educators have bargained in close coordination throughout their negotiations, including using the same expert bargainer, Del Mallory.

“This is an instance of two districts in the same community that both insisted for nearly a year that they cannot budge on their financials — yet Klamath County did anyway, and revealed once again that ‘will’ and ‘won’t’ are simply a matter of values and political will,” said Del Mallory with the Oregon Education Association, who has helped lead financial analysis for both districts.

“The financial reality is that Klamath Falls City Schools gave tens of thousands of dollars to their highest paid non-classroom administrators just weeks ago. Their refusal to pay living wages to their lowest paid employees is a values issue, not a budget issue. They could settle this in their first day of mediation if they made the organizational choice to value their lowest paid employees.”

Southern Oregon PBS has announced that it will persist in its operations despite significant transformations occurring in public broadcasting across the nation, following the recent decision by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting to dissolve after Congress removed all of its federal funding.

Last summer, Congress sanctioned a rescissions package that retracted approximately $1.1 billion in funding that had been previously designated for PBS and NPR via CPB.

At that time, Southern Oregon PBS CEO Phil Meyer cautioned that these cuts would lead to “drastic changes,” highlighting that CPB funding constituted around 37% of the station’s yearly budget. Currently, Meyer indicates that these changes are already in progress — but not in the manner that many had anticipated.

Consequently, Southern Oregon PBS has successfully avoided layoffs and service reductions that have affected various public media stations in other parts of the country.

Meyer notes that viewer contributions now represent approximately 88% of the station’s financial resources.

DNA testing identifies remains found on Washington beach as former Oregon mayor

Advanced genetic testing helped to close a 20-year-old cold case after the body was discovered. Human remains that washed up on a beach in Taholah, Washington in 2006 have been identified as former Oregon mayor, Clarence Edwin “Ed” Asher.

Asher was a long-time resident of Fossil, Oregon, who previously served as the town’s mayor. He was declared dead in September, 2006 — presumed to have drowned in Tillamook Bay during a crabbing trip.

When Asher’s remains were discovered in November, investigators were only able to identify him as an adult man, according to a report from the crowd-funded DNASolves database. Eventually, Asher’s remains were recorded as the Grays Harbor County John Doe.

In 2025, the Grays Harbor County Coroner’s Office and the King County Medical Examiner sent their evidence to Othram Inc., a private lab specializing in genome sequencing. Othram compared the DNA sample to others in hopes of finding possible relatives, eventually locating a potential family member.

A DNA sample from that relative matched up with the DNA profile that Othram got from Asher’s remains, conclusively identifying who he was.

“Critical funding to enable forensic genetic genealogy testing in this case was made possible by Governor Ferguson, Attorney General Nick Brown, and the Washington State Legislature. We are so grateful for their support in providing this funding,” DNASolves wrote. Asher’s identification is reportedly the 43rd case in Washington that Othram has helped with. (SOURCE)

Oregon Health Authority seeks new members for Oversight and Accountability Council

Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is seeking applicants to serve on the Oversight and Accountability Council (OAC), a Council established by Ballot Measure 110 in 2020. The OAC is a public body of the state of Oregon that advises the Oregon Health Authority on the grant program described in ORS 430.389

Members of the OAC serve four-year terms. Members may be eligible for a stipend to compensate them for their time engaged official duties of the OAC. OHA is seeking new members in the categories described below:

• An academic researcher specializing in drug use or drug policy
• A representative of a coordinated care organization

To apply, submit an application here by 11:59 pm, January 30, 2026.

A team at OHA will review applications and inform applicants of appointments by Feb 13, 2026.

For questions or more information, email HRN@OHA.oregon.gov” style=”color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;”>BHRN@OHA.oregon.gov or contact Karli Moon at li.moon@oha.oregon.gov” style=”color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;”>Karli.moon@oha.oregon.gov or 971-240-8690.

Oregon Attorney General Files Lawsuit Over Insulin Price Gouging

In a bold move to combat the exorbitant costs of insulin, Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield has launched a lawsuit seeking a hefty $900 million in damages. The defendants, a trifecta of the largest insulin manufacturers—Novo Nordisk, Sanofi, and Eli Lilly—and a trio of influential pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs)—Express Scripts, CVS Caremark, and Optum, stand accused of conspiring to inflate the prices of this life-saving medication. According to a statement from the Oregon Department of Justice (ODOJ), this lawsuit is a significant step toward alleviating the financial burden imposed on Oregon patients and families.

Filed in Multnomah County Circuit Court, the lawsuit unfolds a narrative of alleged collusion where insulin manufacturers and PBMs have caused prices to surge, in order to ensure PBMs’ formularies included their products. “This is about more than insulin prices – it’s about the crushing cost pressures families are facing and the very real harm that comes when corporations exploit people who have no choice but to pay,” Attorney General Rayfield mentioned on ODOJ. Allegations suggest that to secure favorable formulary positions, drug makers raised list prices and compensated PBMs with significant rebates and fees, which turned inflated prices into mutual benefits.

Furthermore, the complaint alleges that the defendants acted intentionally to exclude more affordable insulin alternatives from formulary lists. By doing so, they essentially trapped consumers in an ecosystem of high-cost medications, pushing aside any opportunity for patients to seek out cost-effective options. This duplicitous conduct has led to insured and low-income Oregonians struggling, having to resort to risky measures like rationing insulin, using expired products, or even skipping meals for blood sugar management.

The lawsuit also sheds light on the ODOJ’s ongoing efforts to unravel and rectify the web of complexities behind prescription drug costs. As the pioneers of a healthcare renaissance struggle to make medications affordable, Attorney General Rayfield has given a face to a crusade to bring justice and generate wide-reaching impacts on how prescription drugs are priced and sold. “We are working to bring the cost of prescription drugs down for working families, using the tools we have to hold these powerful companies accountable. Oregonians can expect more action in the near future,” Rayfield declared on the ODOJ Website, signifying a promise of more actions soon to unfold in this ongoing regulatory saga.

This landmark lawsuit is grounded on alleged breaches of Oregon’s Unlawful Trade Practices Act. It aims not just to penalize those behind the inflation of drug prices but also seeks restitution for affected consumers, the forfeiture of illicit profits, and extensive damages. Oregonians burdened by the soaring cost of insulin could see a pivotal turn if the court sides with the state and demands an end to the alleged scheme that has for too long preyed on their pockets and well-being. (SOURCE)

OPRD seeks public input on proposed rules for UAS use in Oregon State Parks

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking public feedback on proposed rules governing unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) takeoff and landing in Oregon’s state parks and along the ocean shore.

The proposed rules establish where and how UAS may take off and land on state park property, to balance recreational opportunities with protection of natural, cultural, scenic and recreational resources.

Public comments on the proposed rule changes will be accepted beginning January 1, 2026 at 8:00 a.m. and can be submitted:

• Online:
  • https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/Pages/PRP-Rule-2025-Drones-Take-off-and-Landing.aspx
• By email:
  • D.PublicComment@oprd.oregon.gov“>OPRD.PublicComment@oprd.oregon.gov
• By mail:
  • Oregon Parks and Recreation Department
    Attn: Robert Ellison
    725 Summer St. NE, Suite C
    Salem, OR 97301

A public hearing will be held to allow members of the public to provide testimony.

• Virtual hearing
  January 20, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.

Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_X3ChSlJkTE-Y3FRh3WIy-Q

The draft rules focus on regulating takeoff and landing locations, which are within the department’s authority, while recognizing that UAS flight is regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Under the proposal, UAS use would generally be limited to designated areas for drone operations, with additional requirements for commercial or research purposes.

The proposed rules were developed in response to Senate Bill 109 (2021), which directed OPRD to create a regulatory framework that provides recreational UAS access while protecting sensitive park resources and minimizing conflicts with other visitors.

OPRD convened a Rule Advisory Committee made up of recreation user groups, conservation organizations, natural resource specialists, commercial operators and other stakeholders. The committee reviewed draft rules and provided recommendations that helped shape the proposal now open for public comment.

Once the public comment period closes, OPRD staff will review all feedback, revise the draft rules as appropriate, and present a final proposal to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission for consideration later in 2026.

If adopted, the rules would be implemented in phases, allowing the department to adapt management strategies over time, based on resource conditions, visitor use and operational experience.

The future of the recently approved gas tax increase in Oregon remains uncertain as the Secretary of State examines nearly 200,000 signatures submitted by the organization No Tax Oregon.

Should a sufficient number of signatures be validated, voters will have the opportunity next November to determine whether to repeal the gas tax and other transportation-related fee hikes enacted by the legislature. Proponents of the taxes argue that the revenue is essential for road maintenance and to avert job reductions at the Oregon Department of Transportation. State officials are required to finalize the signature verification process by January 29.

Oregon has enhanced its online voter registration system in anticipation of a crucial election season, enabling eligible voters without a state-issued ID to register digitally for the first time.

Voters can access the system via sos.oregon.gov by navigating to the voting section of the website.

Applicants lacking an Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles number can now indicate this directly on the form and proceed with the online registration process. These users are required to provide their name, residential address, date of birth, the last four digits of their Social Security number, and an uploaded image of their signature.

This modification arises from House Bill 4133, which was enacted by lawmakers in 2022. Previously, online registration was restricted to voters whose identity and signature had already been authenticated through the DMV. Individuals without qualifying identification were obligated to fill out a paper registration form, which was subsequently processed by county elections offices.

State election officials indicate that this update aims to modernize the registration system and eliminate obstacles for eligible voters, including those who no longer drive, have never possessed an Oregon driver license, or encounter difficulties registering by mail.

The Oregon DMV has now implemented a local preference system for rural customers who are scheduling behind-the-wheel drive tests for Class C driver licenses, which is the standard license for passenger vehicles.

Becoming effective on January 1st, Senate Bill 9 mandates that DMV field offices located in 20 rural counties prioritize applicants who either reside within the same county, are within 50 miles of a DMV field office, or live in one of the two counties that do not have a DMV office.

This legislation benefits customers residing in Baker, Clatsop, Crook, Curry, Gilliam, Grant, Harney, Hood River, Jefferson, Klamath, Lake, Malheur, Morrow, Sherman, Tillamook, Umatilla, Union, Wallowa, Wasco, and Wheeler counties. It is important to note that the DMV does not conduct drive tests in Gilliam, Morrow, Sherman, or Wheeler counties.

Customers from these counties have the option to schedule a local-preference drive test at any rural DMV office that provides this service.

Raise Funds to Plant Trees in Oregon

Registration is open for the Bob Ross-inspired Happy Little (Virtual) 5K

Inspired by American painter and PBS television personality Bob Ross’ love of the outdoors, Oregon Parks Forever is sponsoring a virtual 5K race to help plant trees in Oregon’s parks & forests.  You must register by April 1^st in order to get your shirts and medal before the event.

Participants can walk, run, paddle or roll to complete their 5K anywhere outdoors anytime between April 18 and 26 (covering Earth Day and Arbor Day).   Participants are encouraged to register by April 1 to ensure that your swag arrives before the event week. Last year, we had to close registration early due to higher than anticipated participation, so register as soon as possible.  If you register after April 1, you may not receive your swag before race week. Registration will close on April 15, or earlier if more participants sign up than we have available swag.

For $36 per person, each participant will receive a keepsake Happy Little T-shirt, a commemorative bib number and a finisher’s medal. All Oregon race proceeds support tree planting and forest protection efforts in Oregon parks.  Ten trees will be planted in Oregon for each registration.  This year’s tree plantings will be placed in the Santiam Canyon.

Initially, the “Happy Little Trees” program began with a partnership between the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Bob Ross Inc., with hundreds of volunteers helping to plant “happy little trees” at locations hard-hit by invasive pests and tree diseases. The partnership quickly expanded to include the Run for the Trees / Happy Little (Virtual) 5K.

As the Happy Little 5K gained popularity, more states have joined the effort. Now in its sixth year, the Happy Little 5K has expanded its reach to include fifteen other states. Together, all sixteen states will help raise awareness and funding for stewardship efforts in each state’s parks.

“We are thrilled to honor Bob Ross and continue our efforts to plant at least One Million Trees in Oregon.” said Seth Miller, Executive Director of Oregon Parks Forever.  “To date, we have funded the planting of 850,000 trees.”

“The official Bob Ross 5K is probably our most favorite initiative,” says Joan Kowalski, president of Bob Ross Company. “It’s the perfect blend of everything Bob held dear; nature, taking care of the environment, and happy trees too of course. He would have been so pleased to see how it’s getting so popular around the world.”

Participants can register at www.orparksforever.org.

For more information, contact Seth Miller at 503/966-1053 or seth@orparksforever.org

The Oregon Department of Revenue will open the application period in January 2026 for the Agricultural Employer Overtime Tax Credit.

Paying overtime to agricultural workers became a requirement of employers in Oregon as of January 1, 2023. In 2025, agricultural workers are paid overtime after they work 48 hours in one work week. If an employer paid overtime, they may qualify for a refundable personal or corporate income tax credit, regardless of the size of the business.

The tax credit for employers is a percentage of overtime premium pay paid as wages.

All applications must be submitted no later than February 2, 2026.

The 2025 filing period marks the third year since eligible employers have been able to apply for the tax credit.

Applications can only be made through the department’s Revenue Online website. Qualifying agricultural employers who have not applied for the tax credit previously need a Revenue Online account to apply during the application period. No paper applications will be accepted. We have published a new video to help customers with their Revenue Online applications.

DOR encourages employers to prepare in advance to ensure an easier and faster filing experience. DOR’s webpage provides guidance for how to apply, documentation you may need, program information, and frequently asked questions to help employers apply for the tax credit.

For general questions about the Agricultural Employer Overtime Tax Credit, email: Ag.Overtime@dor.oregon.gov.

Tax practitioners with other tax or customer account questions are encouraged to contact a dedicated practitioner specialist by email at prac.revenue@dor.oregon.gov, or by phone at 503-947-3541.

NW Natural Warms Up Winter with “Fireside Friends” Pet Photo Contest

Customers are invited to share photos of their pets for a chance to win a prize; NW Natural is also supporting The Pongo Fund

NW Natural is inviting customers to warm up this winter and celebrate their pets with the launch of the Fireside Friends Sweepstakes. The contest offers the chance to win a prize while also supporting a local charity.

Running now through February 1, 2026, the sweepstakes welcomes customers to share photos of their furry friends enjoying the warmth and comfort of a natural gas fireplace for the chance to win a $200 Chewy gift card.

NW Natural has also pledged a $1,000 donation to The Pongo Fund Pet Food Bank, which helps support people and their pets throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington.

How to Enter:

NW Natural customers can enter the sweepstakes via social media in two simple steps:

1. Follow @nwnaturalgas on Instagram or Facebook. (Media can find some of the wonderful pet photos that have already been posted by customers on both platforms!)
2. Post a photo of their pet(s) cozying up by their natural gas fireplace and tag @nwnaturalgas or use the hashtag #nwnaturalgas.

The contest is open now and entries will be accepted until February 1, 2026. For full terms and conditions visit nwnatural.com/FiresideFriends

About NW Natural – NW Natural is a local distribution company that currently provides service to approximately 2 million people in more than 140 communities through approximately 806,000 meters in Oregon and Southwest Washington with one of the most modern pipeline systems in the nation. NW Natural owns and operates 21.6 Bcf of underground gas storage capacity in Oregon. It is the largest natural gas utility in Oregon and one of the state’s oldest companies.

Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs

No veteran should be without a place to call home, and the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is committed to ending veteran homelessness in our state.

The new ODVA Houseless Veterans Program collaborates with federal, state, county, and Tribal agencies, veteran services offices, and community homeless service providers to meet the urgent and unique needs of Oregon’s diverse veteran communities challenged with housing stability.

In addition to advocating for Oregon veterans experiencing or at risk for houselessness, the program provides direct service to veterans and their families seeking federal and state veterans’ benefits, including access to local VA health care, documentation of service, as well as other available state benefits, and local homeless services organizations and low-income assistance programs.

If you or a veteran you know is dealing with homelessness, contact the ODVA Houseless Veterans Coordinator today at houselessvets@odva.oregon.gov or visit https://ow.ly/V4EH50VnL93 to learn more.

Staying Informed During a Communications Outage: Best Practices for the Public

Disasters can damage critical infrastructure, leading to temporary outages in cell service, internet, and power. When communication systems go down, it’s vital to be prepared with alternate ways to get emergency information and stay connected. Here’s how you can prepare and respond:

  Have a Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank Emergency Weather Radio

• Why it matters: Emergency radios can receive Emergency Alert System (EAS) broadcasts via AM/FM or NOAA Weather Radio frequencies—even when cell towers and the internet are down.
• Note: Emergency radios do not receive Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) like cell phones do. Tip: Pre-tune your radio to your local emergency broadcast station (e.g., OPB in Oregon or NOAA frequencies).

Turn On WEA Alerts on Your Phone

• Make sure Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are enabled in your phone’s settings. These alerts include evacuation orders, severe weather warnings, and other urgent notifications.
• WEA messages are sent through cell towers—if cell service is out, WEA alerts will not be delivered. This is why having backup methods like a radio is essential.

Charge Everything in Advance and Have Backup Power

• Charge phones, power banks, laptops, and rechargeable flashlights before fire weather conditions worsen.
• Consider solar-powered chargers or car chargers as backups.
• If you are sheltering in place, a generator (solar or gas powered) is helpful.

Know Your Evacuation Routes in Advance

• Save printed or downloaded evacuation maps in case you can’t access GPS or navigation apps.
• Most mapping services (like Google Maps or Apple Maps) offer the ability to “Make maps available offline.” Download your area in advance so you can navigate even if cell towers or internet access are down.
• When in doubt, call 511 or visit the TripCheck.com website if you have cell service.
• Don’t wait for a notification—if you feel unsafe, evacuate early.

Print or Write Down Critical Contacts and Info

• Phone numbers of family, neighbors, and local emergency contacts.
• Address of evacuation shelters, veterinary services (for pets/livestock), and medical facilities.
• Your own emergency plan, including meeting locations.
• Have copies of vital documents in your go-bag and take video of your property (inside and out) for insurance claims later.

If Calling 9-1-1 Over Wi-Fi or Satellite, Check Your Location Settings

If you call 9-1-1 using Wi-Fi calling or a satellite-connected phone (like an iPhone or Android), your location might not be automatically visible to dispatch. Instead, it may rely on the emergency address saved in your phone’s settings.

• Update this emergency address when you travel or relocate—especially in evacuation zones or rural areas.
• Most importantly, always tell the dispatcher exactly where you are—include your address, landmarks, road names, or mile markers to help first responders reach you quickly.

Sign Up for Alerts Before There’s an Outage

• Register for OR-Alert and your county’s local alert system.
• Follow your local emergency management officials’ and bookmark resources like: wildfire.oregon.gov.

 Prepare for Alert Delays or Gaps

• Know the three levels of evacuation:
  • Level 1 – Be Ready
  • Level 2 – Be Set
  • Level 3 – GO NOW
• If you hear a siren, see a neighbor evacuating, or witness fire behavior increasing—take action even if you haven’t received an alert.

 Be Your Own Info Network

• Check on neighbors, especially seniors or those with disabilities.
• Post printed signs with updates for those passing by.

In rural areas, community bulletin boards or fire stations may serve as local information points.

Support and Restoration in Progress
To help maintain emergency communications during this incident, OEM deployed eight Starlink terminals under the guidance of ESF 2 and the Statewide Interoperability Coordinator (SWIC). A Communications Technician (Jeff Perkins) was also deployed to assess connectivity needs on the ground. These Starlink terminals have been providing service to the Lake County Emergency Operations Center (EOC), Oregon State Police (OSP), Warner Creek Correctional Facility, and will soon support the town of Lakeview, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and the Lakeview Ranger Station. OEM’s Regional Coordinator (Stacey) is also on-site supporting the Lake County EOC. Coordination has been strong across local, state, and private sector partners. *** Update: As of 7/10/25 at 1:47 PM, fiber service has been restored.

Reconnect When Service Returns

• Once communications are restored, check official websites:
  • Oregon.gov/oem
  • Your county emergency management page
  • TripCheck.com for road conditions
• Share verified info—not rumors—on social media or community pages.

 Prepare for Delays in Restoration

• Communication may come back in phases. Damage to fiber lines or cell towers can take time to repair.
• Continue using backup methods and stay alert for updates via radio or in-person notices.

 Final Tip:

In an emergency, CALL 9-1-1 to report life-threatening danger, not for general information. Use local non-emergency numbers or go to physical information points if needed. You can find more tips for preparing in OEM’s Be2Weeks Ready toolkit.

Contact us: Info@OregonBeachMagazine.com