Oregon Beach News, Friday 1/23 – Coos County Law Enforcement Agencies Release Information On Major Safety Operation, Toledo Train Derailment Update, Big Blue Film Fest and Other Events This Weekend & 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

Friday, January 23, 2026

Oregon Beach Weather

Small Craft Advisory Issued – National Weather Service

...SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM THIS AFTERNOON TO
10 PM PST SATURDAY...

* WHAT...North winds 20 to 30 kt with gusts around 35 kt and steep
wind-driven seas 6 to 9 ft at 6 seconds.

* WHERE...All areas except waters within 10 nm from shore and
north of Cape Arago.

* WHEN...From 4 PM this afternoon to 10 PM PST Saturday.

* IMPACTS...Gusty winds and/or steep seas could capsize or
damage smaller vessels.

* View the hazard area in detail at https://go.usa.gov/x6hks

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

Very cold temperatures are expected Friday night. Lows are forecast to fall to the upper 20s/low 30s at the Coos County Coast, low 20s in the Rogue Valley, and teens to single digits east of the Cascades. Protect people, pets, pipes and plants. Dress for cold weather, cover exposed skin to avoid frostbite and hypothermia when outside and keep pets inside as much as possible.

A Freeze Watch has been issued for the south central Oregon coast from late Friday night through Saturday morning, with temperatures expected to drop well below freezing in coastal communities.

According to the National Weather Service in Medford, overnight low temperatures could fall to around 27 degrees along the coast in Coos and Douglas counties. The watch includes coastal locations such as Coos Bay, North Bend, Reedsport, and Bandon.

Forecasters warn that sub-freezing temperatures along the coast are uncommon and could pose a threat to sensitive vegetation and unprotected outdoor plumbing. Frost and freeze conditions may kill crops and other tender plants if protective measures are not taken.

The cold temperatures are expected to develop late Friday night and persist into Saturday morning before moderating later in the day. Even brief exposure to freezing conditions may be enough to cause damage in exposed areas.

Residents are urged to take precautions now by covering or bringing sensitive plants indoors where possible. Outdoor pipes should be wrapped, drained, or allowed to drip slowly to reduce the risk of freezing and bursting.

While travel impacts are not expected, officials emphasize that coastal residents and agricultural interests should be prepared for temperatures well below seasonal norms.

Coos County Law Enforcement Agencies Release Information On Major Safety Operation

Law enforcement across Coos County conducted a major safety operation over the weekend during the annual “Whapping 23” event, resulting in nine arrests and dozens of citations tied to traffic and criminal activity.

According to the Coos County Sheriff’s Office, deputies, police officers, and state troopers worked extended shifts from Friday through Sunday to manage the surge of visitors and calls for service. Agencies involved included the Coquille Indian Tribe Police Department, Oregon State Police, and Coos Bay Police, along with the Coos County Emergency Management Team and Search and Rescue volunteers.

Captain Sean Sanborn, who coordinated the operation, said the weekend brought a steady flow of enforcement actions — from traffic stops to welfare checks — designed to prevent impaired driving and improve safety along the county’s main roadways. Deputies also responded to reports of theft, drug possession, and vehicle disturbances while maintaining visible patrols around event areas.

Sanborn credited the success of the weekend to teamwork and preparation among local agencies. He noted that officers performed numerous welfare checks, assisted stranded drivers, and supported nearby fire departments with emergency coordination throughout the weekend.

Officials confirmed the operation concluded without any serious injuries or fatalities. The Sheriff’s Office thanked residents and visitors for cooperating with deputies and reminded drivers to stay alert and plan safe transportation during large community events.

Wrapping it up… By Captain Sean Sanborn

It’s funny isn’t it, how fast a year seems to go by. But when one sits and contemplates just how busy the year was it suddenly begins to slow down with perspective. It has been quite a year for your Coos County Sheriff’s Office. There have been successes and failures, ups and downs as is typical with life in general. As we roll into the new year, we celebrate the successes and continue to work on the things which need improvement. I want to introduce to you the fine men and women of my division, the Criminal Division of the Coos County Sheriff’s Office.

In 2025, Deputies handled 21,449 calls for service throughout the county. We have handled 3 homicides, one of which is still being investigated, 111 unattended death investigations as well as many other calls for service. We are proud to say that as of October of 2025 we had seen a significant drop in fatal and serious injury crashes in the county. The work of our traffic safety deputy has saved the tax payers nearly $50,000 in guardrail damage alone which is a 77% decrease over 2024, something we can celebrate. Deputy Michael Smith serves in our traffic safety position which is half grant funded and half funded from transportation dollars from the Coos County Public Works Department.

Deputy John Owens is our School Resource Deputy at the Coquille School District. John is great with the kids and teaches in his own right. John has taught drivers education to 23 kids over the past year. John was trained to teach this class and has the hair-raising duty of riding in the passenger seat while these young drivers learn. Additionally, he ensures the safety of kids and staff at the Coquille School District. John’s position is fully funded by the Coquille School District.

We have trained two new deputies who transferred from the Correction Division and we welcome Deputies Jimmy Lay and John Anderson to the Criminal Division. While they have both been employed with the Coos County Jail for some time, they are learning a new job and got to go the academy (again) to learn the ins and outs of their new jobs as patrol deputies.

Our civil division is small, but mighty. Deputy Brison Vitek has been out and about serving legal documents for the courts, DA’s Office, private entities and anyone else who has a need to file documents. In the past year our civil section has served about 5900 documents around the county and served 59 writs of execution (court ordered evictions). The Civil Department is overseen by Chief Civil Deputy Tyrone Hansen and is really ran by our professional staff member attached to civil; Civil Clerk Cindi Cade.

Our Emergency Manager Don “Chip” Delyria has been kept very busy. He is assisted by Emergency Coordinator Debbie Mueller and part time professional staff member Tarynne Lay. Chip is very active in our Search and Rescue (SAR) program as a Search Manager but also handles the myriad of other responsibilities associated with his position. In the past year we had a disaster declaration following flooding in March. Chip coordinated people, state and federal agencies to bring assistance to Coos County. The hard work by Chip and Deb ensured that some federal dollars will be returning to Coos County to assist us in the cost of mitigating the damages and repairs which were sustained by that event. Debbie is a miracle of a person, we finally got a grant which pays her part time for some fire mitigation, but she does so much more than that. Debbie largely volunteers her time on a FULL-TIME basis because she loves the work that she does and she loves Coos County, her home. We are blessed to have such an amazing volunteer working at our side for the safety of her neighbors.

Our contract deputies have been busy at it. In Dunes we have Deputies Brian Kent, Allen Churchill and Shawn Starr. These poor guys ride around on ATV’s in the dunes every day working to keep the recreating public safe. I say that jokingly, but having worked in that position I can tell you that there is plenty of work to be done out there. These positions are paid for out of a grant by the State of Oregon largely funded through ATV gas sales and off-road permits.

In a county where timber operations are a large part of our economy, we have three positions funded, one by BLM, various timber operators and land owners throughout Coos County “TOPS” and a position funded by Weyerhauser Corporation. All of these timber positions ensure that the resources, people and equipment operating on those lands remains safe and un-molested. All three positions are fully funded and independent from the general fund of Coos County. Laura McRee, Kris Mong and Adam Burgo work these woods to fulfill those missions.

This past year the Oregon State Marine Board cut our Marine Division funding by 30% across the state of Oregon. This dealt a huge blow to the marine programs across the state and we were no exception. We had to cut one patrol position in order to maintain one Marine deputy where at one point, we had two. Deputy Robert Baker fulfills that role and is responsible for patrolling 190 miles of waterways inside of Coos County. A daunting task. Also, a dangerous task. Deputy Baker has often placed himself in harms way for the people of our county. At the beginning of last year, he conducted a swift water rescue over raging flood waters high in the mountains to attempt to save a person who was stuck in the middle of it. During the course of this rescue attempt, Deputy Baker seriously injured his hand. During the March floods Deputy Baker was in boats and jet skis in the flood waters working to save livestock and check on stranded citizens along with several other citizens.

All these folks are overseen by the Swiss Army Knife of Sergeants; Matt Smith. Sergeant Smith has cross trained these deputies to assist in all other areas he oversees. This ensures that if an event which requires two boats is needed, we have trained operators to go out and get the job done. Sergeant Smith is also proficient in the use of this equipment and geography to be able to assist wherever is needed.

SCINT, which is largely made up of Coos County Detectives is led by Sergeant Aaron Whittenburg. Sergeant Whittenburg has kept SCINT alive through a vigorous pursuit of grants in addition to the civil forfeiture of various money and items from drug dealers across the county. Also in our detective division is Detective David Ritz. Detective Ritz is an individual who deserves so much credit. He is responsible for the investigation of crimes of abuse against our most vulnerable citizens, children and the elderly. In the past year SCINT has seized, in round numbers, nearly 100 pounds of illegal narcotics from the street as well as 60 or more firearms. Detective Sergeant Whittenburg leads a dynamic team with our very own Detective BradLee Davis and assisted by members of Coos County Parole and Probation, Oregon State Police, and Coquille Tribal Police. The work these men and women may not be directly seen, but it is directly felt throughout the county and beyond.

Our professional staff who works in the front office keep this place running and help out everyone who walks through our doors in Coquille. We would like to welcome Ellen Knudsen who started with us in September and hit the ground running! Tarynne Lay and Ellen move all police reports and documents to their final destinations. These ladies help out with concealed handgun license processing and help sort and move evidence. Dede Clements takes care of all court ordered expungements, public records requests, grants and is an analyst for SCINT and the list goes on. Dede is always smiling and has a great attitude. Heather Sanborn has the difficult task of taking care of our evidence room. We recently moved our evidence room to another location which is a monumental task which she oversaw. Heather also has the job of reporting criminal statistics to state and federal agencies. Melissa Hager handles the finances and payroll of the Sheriff’s Office and is integral in all things budget. All of these wonderful folks help each other out and are cross trained against each other’s jobs. We could use at least two more folks to help them out, but sadly, it is not in the budget.

Your patrol staff are the deputies who come out to the calls for service, are the first responders. Sadly, we have seen our ranks cut due to budgetary restraints. However, the crime which occurs in this county has not slowed down. These teams are led by Sergeants Adam Slater, Jon Boswell, Justin Gray and Justin Clayburn. They lead Deputies Hannah Francis, Zac Smith, Seven Converse, John Anderson and Jimmy Lay. These positions are paid for out of the general fund of Coos County and are subject the budgetary limitations of the county.

Our Search and Rescue Team is staffed by a group of hardy folks led by Sergeant Gray and assisted by Emergency Manager Chip Delyria. These men are assisted by Deputies Starr and Baker. In the past year our Search and Rescue team have found and recovered 6 individuals. They train monthly to ensure they are proficient in their craft and as a team have logged 1881 hours of training in the past year.

The Coos County Sheriff’s Office hosts the Coos County Emergency Response Team (ERT), a multi-agency special tactics team which is led by Sergeants Matt Smith and Aaron Whittenburg. In the past year this team was deployed about 20 times and brought a safe resolution to each event they deployed to.

I am proud to lead and serve beside these extraordinary men and women who work very hard and do so much for this county. It would be easy to tout the hard work of these folks as a success on my part, but I cannot in good faith do it. This amazing team serves the citizens of Coos County with an energy and diligence that is un-paralleled. Their successes are all theirs, the failures are mine. Our response times have gone down due to lack of staffing. Our ability to protect you is hampered by a lack of resources. The Sheriff and I continue to work hard to find solutions in these difficult economic times. In the meantime, we continue to appreciate your support and understanding as we continue the good work for you into 2026.

PeaceHealth Peace Harbor Medical Center

Learn to make acorn squash soup with PeaceHealth Registered Dietitian, Cecelia Jacobson! This is a great basic soup stock that’s low in sodium and fat. It’s also a good source of vitamin C, which can help boost your immune system. https://ow.ly/3MFk50Y0MeS

The City of Florence has a new website platform to serve the community!

Many familiar features now have an updated layout at the same website, https://www.ci.florence.or.us/. You can find agendas, packets, minutes, and videos in the Agenda Center right from the home page. That’s also where you can subscribe to our Focus on Florence Newsletter and see what the City has scheduled in our Calendar. The five Florence City Council Goals – City Services Delivery, Livability & Quality of Life, Economic Development, Financial & Organizational Sustainability, and Communication & Trust – rely in part on the City’s communication efforts with this website. We invite you to connect with us.

We have two community engagement positions open, one in the Columbia River Gorge, and the other on the North Coast. Come be a helper with us! Learn more at 211info.org/about/careers/

Oregon Main Street has advanced North Bend Main Street, Port Orford Main Street, and Reedsport Main Street to the Designated Main Street level within the Oregon Main Street Network

The Designated Main Street designation is a mark of distinction, recognizing communities that have demonstrated sustained organizational development and a strong commitment to revitalizing their historic downtowns through partnerships and community engagement. Organizations at this level gain access to advanced technical assistance designed to strengthen long-term impact and sustainability.

OMS officials said all four communities have shown a high level of commitment to the nationally recognized Main Street Approach™, a place-based methodology focused on economic vitality, historic preservation, and community-driven development. To qualify, communities must have a cohesive core of historic or older commercial and mixed-use buildings representing local architectural heritage, along with sufficient business density and a compact, walkable downtown district.

Prior to receiving the designation, each organization participated in the OMS Network at the Affiliated Main Street level, where they worked with OMS staff to build organizational capacity and strengthen downtown revitalization strategies.

More than 100 communities statewide currently participate in the Oregon Main Street Network, which includes the Accredited Main Street, Designated Main Street, Affiliated Main Street, Rural Regional Main Street, and Connected Communities tiers. There is no fee to participate in the network.

Oregon Main Street operates as part of Oregon Heritage within the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. More information about the program is available at oregonmainstreet.org.

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.

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.

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

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.

Tickets are now on sale for the 2026 Wild Coast Film Festival! Join us for four days of powerful storytelling celebrating conservation, wild spaces, and our connection to the natural world. While the final film lineup is still on the way, we can promise an unforgettable weekend. What to expect:• Inspiring films in curated film blocks• Guided nature and photo walks • Pop-up discussion panels• A festival party at the Columbia River Maritime Museum

Purchase single-block tickets or day/weekend passes at wildcoastfilm.org.

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

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. 

Red Cross Declares Severe Shortage after Blood Supply Falls 35% in Past Month

• The American Red Cross is issuing a severe blood shortage after the national blood supply fell about 35% over the past month.
• A nationwide flu outbreak may be sidelining blood donors. Already, the flu has overburdened hospitals — and this blood shortage means they’re now being forced to triage critical blood products.
• With more winter weather forecast, the problem could worsen without immediate blood donor action. Last month alone, 400 blood drives were impacted by winter weather, causing thousands of blood donations to go uncollected.
• Those who may be eligible are urged to book an appointment now at RedCrossBlood.org.

Despite efforts to rebuild the national blood supply in recent weeks, the inventory has continued to drop at an alarming rate of about 35% over the past month — forcing the American Red Cross to issue a severe blood shortage. This comes as flu activity is exploding across the country, where overburdened hospitals are now being forced to triage critical blood products.

High flu activity in nearly every state may be sidelining donors, slowing efforts to rebuild vital blood inventories to help patients and relieve pressure on hospitals. The shortage is especially serious for types O, A negative and B negative. Without immediate action, patients who rely on transfusions — including trauma victims, mothers in childbirth, and people with sickle cell disease or cancer — face serious risk.

There’s no time to wait. Book an appointment now to give blood by using the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

“This time of year is always challenging for blood collection — but right now, the perfect storm of a long holiday season, record flu activity and winter weather are all impeding donation efforts,” said Dr. Courtney Lawrence, executive medical director for the Red Cross. “Every person’s blood donation can help save lives — plus you help ease the tremendous burden on our doctors and nurses, allowing them to focus on caring for patients.”

Intense winter weather and freezing temperatures are expected across much of the country in the coming weeks, potentially delaying or canceling blood drives and forcing vital units of blood to uncollected. Last month alone, about 400 blood drives were impacted due to extreme winter weather — more than three times the number of those affected during the same time the previous year. As a result, thousands of blood donations went uncollected.

‘I Had a Successful Ending Because the Blood I Needed Was There’
When emergencies like postpartum hemorrhage occur, the difference between life and death for a mother and her baby can hinge on the availability of a blood transfusion. Postpartum hemorrhage is a leading cause of maternal deaths in the United States. These crises can happen suddenly — even in pregnancies without complications — underscoring the vital need for a ready supply of blood to help save lives.

For first-time mother Reihaneh Hajibeigi, childbirth complications caused her to hemorrhage and lose nearly 40% of her blood supply. She recalled that, as she crashed, a team of doctors rushed in to save her life, asking, “Where’s her blood? She needs this blood to save her life.”

“It was about 10 minutes from the time I started to feel faint until they had the blood in my system, and I was basically coming back to life,” Reihaneh said. “I think about the people who made it possible for me to live,” she said. Watch Reihaneh share her remarkable story of survival.

Special Thank You to Those Who Come to Give During This Critical Time
The Red Cross is thanking all donors who come out through Jan. 25, by entering them for a chance to win a trip for two to Super Bowl LX, in partnership with the NFL. The winner and guest will get to enjoy Super Bowl LX in Santa Clara, CA, access to day-of in-stadium pregame activities, tickets to the official Super Bowl Experience, round-trip airfare, three-night hotel accommodations (Feb. 6-9, 2026), plus a $1,000 gift card for expenses. For full details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/SuperBowl.

The Red Cross is also extending its thanks to those who come to donate Jan. 26-Feb. 28 with a $20 e-gift card to a merchant of your choice. See RedCrossBlood.org/Heart for details.

How to Donate Blood
Download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment and learn more. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients.

• A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in
• Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood.
• High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.

About the American Red Cross: The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media. https://www.redcross.org/local/oregon.html?srsltid=AfmBOoqQ-oQRSOha1nl8QTzVG4BDk_UtPu7nK9Ao6jYxWqU1Acruynxs

The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation is a proud supporter of the Bank On movement, a nationwide effort to reduce barriers to banking access and increase the availability of safe and affordable bank and credit union accounts.

Bank On certified accounts do not have overdraft fees, have low monthly maintenance fees, and require just $25 to open an account. When consumers have access to affordable and safe checking accounts, they can avoid paying for costly check cashing services and money orders. Find a Bank On certified account near you at https://www.oregon.gov/bankonoregon/Pages/index.aspx.

Oregon’s Unemployment Rate Was 5.2% in December

Oregon’s unemployment rate was 5.2% in both November and December. The U.S. unemployment rate was 4.5% in November and 4.4% in December.

In December, Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment dropped by 2,200 jobs, following a gain of 800 jobs, as revised, in November. December’s gains were largest in professional and business services (+1,100 jobs) and government (+500). Losses were largest in construction (-2,500 jobs); retail trade (-900); and transportation, warehousing, and utilities (-900).

Professional and business services added 1,900 jobs during the last two months of 2025, recovering some of the jobs it lost during the first half of the year. Each of its three component industries rose between October and December, with administrative and waste services growing the fastest (+900 jobs, or 0.9%).

Construction cut 3,000 jobs during the last two months of 2025, following relatively strong growth during July through October. At 113,900 jobs in December, it is close to its spring level, and slightly below its three-year average of 116,900 jobs during 2022 through 2024.

Holiday hiring in retail trade was 1,200 jobs below the normal seasonal pattern during the last two months of the year. Since early 2023, retail trade has trended downward. It employed 199,200 in December, which was 11,300 jobs, or 5.4%, below three years prior.

Transportation, warehousing, and utilities cut 1,400 jobs during November and December, following growth of a similar amount during the summer. It employed 78,200 in December, which was close to its three-year average of 78,500 jobs during 2022 through 2024.

Oregon legislation poised to tackle ‘fishing expedition’ searches of license plate data

The idea comes as a result of a legislative workgroup convened last year to study the issue of inappropriate usage of automated license plate recognition software employed by law enforcement agencies in Oregon and nationwide

A powerful Oregon legislative committee chair is calling for increased “safeguards and protections” on the use of data collected by a controversial crime-fighting technology scanning license plates that critics fear the Trump administration will weaponize.

Sen. Floyd Prozanski, a Eugene Democrat who chairs the Senate Judiciary Committee, helped convene a group of law enforcement stakeholders, privacy advocates and legislative leaders, which met in December to tackle the issue as cities across the state have debated whether to turn off their cameras employing the technology. One vendor in particular, the Atlanta-based Flock Safety, has drawn condemnation from U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden, who previously said the company is “unable and uninterested” in addressing abuses of its products.

But views among workgroup stakeholders were diverse, including law enforcement who have defended license plate readers as a valuable tool for intercepting crime to progressive activists who say such technology itself is far too vulnerable for abuse by the federal government. Critics of some license plate reading technology have pointed to instances where the software’s data has been accessed by federal immigration enforcement agencies or used to target out-of-state abortion seekers.

“At this point, Prozanski is leaning more towards putting up some guardrails that will make it safe,” Ky Fireside, an Oregon House candidate and Springfield-based progressive organizer who is part of the workgroup, told the Capital Chronicle in December. “But the fact of the matter is, there’s not anything you can do to make this kind of technology safe. It’s just designed to be abused.”

Prozanski, however, said in an interview that he values the technology for “legitimate, lawful enforcement purposes,” pointing to its use in the arrests of suspected criminals tied to a Pacific Northwest burglary ring targeting Asian American households, including in the Eugene-Springfield area. 

He said he was also concerned about inappropriate data-sharing with the federal government or other states, as well as data brokers who are mining and selling such data for unlawful use. He added that law enforcement agencies across the state may be entering into contracts for the software without adequate data privacy protections, calling for similar protections employed by other Oregon state agencies for safeguarding information.

“They have protocols in place already on the duration of the length that can be held, (to) cross check for if someone’s making inquiries, to ensure that there has been something assigned to it, like a case number, and someone’s not going on what some people would call a fishing expedition and just picking out this request or that request,” Prozanski said. “That’s the type of stuff that we’re working on.”

New funding formula

Key to the debate over the license plate readers have been Oregon’s sanctuary laws, which prevent state and local law enforcement from assisting federal immigration enforcement without a court order. U.S. Border Patrol employed automated license plate reading technology in the 1990s, and it spread to police departments across the country in the next decade. 

A November state court ruling in Washington found that the images captured by Flock’s license plate readers are not exempt from disclosure under public records law. Prozanski confirmed he is still considering a public records exemption for such information as well as increased audits, a pathway to allow individuals whose data is improperly accessed to receive redress and certification requirements for license plate reading software vendors. 

A Flock company spokesperson did not respond to requests for comment about legislative efforts in Oregon, but company leadership have previously accused opponents of spreading misinformation, pointing to improved filters for sanctuary states. 

“We’re working under state law of Oregon, and if someone is making queries for something that happened or potentially could be actionable in a different state, it’s not what their state law provides, it’s what Oregon provides,” Prozanski said. “So we’re going to maintain safeguards and protections for those within this state.”

The state has already funded the proliferation of the technology’s use across Oregon, though in cities such as Eugene, police have backed away from their contracts with Flock. In that instance, local authorities confirmed that a license plate reading camera in the area was turned on without the city’s consent.

Meanwhile, hundreds of thousands of dollars in funding for law enforcement agencies across the state has gone toward the technology, drawing from an Oregon organized retail theft grant program, according to the state’s Criminal Justice Commission. As of December, however, there have been no instances where the agency has needed to investigate reports of state law violations involving the use of state funds for license plate reading technology, according to Ryan Keck, the commission’s director. 

He said that his agency uses quarterly reports from recipients and can also conduct information audits within the scope of its grant agreements. If there were a reported violation, Keck said the agency would forward the matter for investigation. 

For new grants issued after Dec. 1, 2025, however, the agency has tightened its purse strings. New contracts include additional language for returning any funds that have been spent outside the scope of the agreement, which includes requirements to comply with state laws, Keck said. The commission in October also agreed to establish a new methodology for determining how the retail theft grant money would be awarded.  

“The Commission’s methodology prioritized applications to support local programs specific to organized retail theft (to include equipment) over applications solely requesting equipment with no specified support (ex: personnel, operations) to address organized retail theft,” he wrote in a statement.

“Moving forward, CJC will continue to monitor its grants in accordance with the terms of executed grant agreements, and remain responsive to any legislative changes,” he added.

Future legislation, continued debate likely

In an interview Friday, Fireside said that while they appreciate the work the legislative workgroup has done, the deck felt stacked in favor of law enforcement. 

The line in the sand they and other privacy advocates are drawing has to do with support for end-to-end encryption, the process by which secure data is encoded before it is transferred to its destination and decoded. Having such a safeguard would make it difficult for federal authorities to subpoena vendors for information stored securely by a law enforcement agency, Fireside said. 

“They are trying to push for like, ‘Oh, well, it’s, it’s encrypted in transit, and it’s encrypted at rest’, and that just doesn’t mean anything,” they said. “It doesn’t provide any protection.”

Prozanski, in the meantime, suggested there would be more than one proposal in the works, potentially for future sessions. Some ideas involve allocating additional funding, which is not feasible given the state’s current financial outlook, he told the Capital Chronicle, but could be in the future.

“This is probably the first beginning of more than one session dealing with this,” he said. “We’re not going to get everything done the first time.” (SOURCE)

Beginning in February, air travelers in the United States who do not possess a REAL ID will incur a fee of $45, as announced by the Transportation Security Administration on Monday.

Although the updated ID has been mandatory since May, passengers lacking it have previously been permitted to pass through security with additional screening and a cautionary notice.

According to the Department of Homeland Security, 94% of travelers are already compliant, and the new fee aims to motivate travelers to acquire the ID. REAL ID refers to a state-issued license or identification card that complies with federal standards and fulfills enhanced requirements established following the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.

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.

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.

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.

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