Oregon Beach News, Monday 2/2 – Tibetan Monk Tour to Start Along Oregon Coast, Newport Symphony Orchestra Presents Family Concert Wednesday & 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, February 2, 2026

Oregon Beach Weather

Small Craft Advisory Issued – National Weather Service

...SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 1 AM PST TUESDAY...

* WHAT...Steep west swell dominated seas 9 to 13 ft.

* WHERE...All areas.

* WHEN...Until 1 AM PST Tuesday.

* 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

Tibetan Monk Tour to Start Along Oregon Coast

Bringing a beautiful gift to coastal cities, four Tibetan monks from Gaden Shartse Phukhang Monasteries in India are touring the Oregon coast this February, with week-long stops in Lincoln City, Yachats and Newport. Organized by Lincoln County Friends of Tibet in conjunction with the Lincoln County Cultural Center and the Yachats Chamber of Commerce, the tour brings the rich and colorful music, sights, and art of Tibetan culture to our coastal audiences. The tour’s purpose is to promote intercultural understanding, and share the timeless wisdom of Tibetan Buddhism’s many practices for promoting peace and personal healing.

The monks are here to raise critical funds for housing, health, and education facilities at the “monastery-in-exile” back in southern India. The Oregon stops are part of a 6 month tour throughout the western United States. The Oregon coast tour begins Wednesday, February 11th thru February 15th at the Lincoln City Cultural Center, 540 NE Hwy 101 in Lincoln City. Then moves on February 17th thru February 22nd to the Yachats Commons, 441 Hwy 101 North in Yachats. They finish up the coastal Oregon tour February 24th thru March 1st at Newport’s Samaritan Center for Health Education, 740 SW 9th Street.

The monks will be creating a different sacred “sand mandala” in each of the three stops: Green Tara (Lincoln City Cultural Center), symbolizing Enlightened Action; Avalokiteshvara (Yachats Commons), symbolizing Compassion; and Manjushri (Samaritan Center for Health Education in Newport), symbolizing Wisdom. The mandalas are made by using specially made metal funnels with narrow tips that the monks vibrate with a metal rod, directing the individual grains of sand into the brocade-like figures, patterns, and symbols that decorate the mandala.

Each sand mandala requires long hours of daily work by the monks, culminating in a ritual

“dissolution” of the finished art work, when the mandala is ritually swept up, and the sand taken to pour into the ocean as an offering to beings of the sea. The dissolution of the mandala symbolizes the impermanence of all created things. Sand mandalas are an ancient sacred art used by Tibetan monks and nuns to represent celestial abodes of various “bodhisattvas” or the “Great Beings” of Tibetan Buddhism. It will take the monks a full week in each location to create the colorful and intricate sand mandala designs.

The public is invited and encouraged to come witness the meditative process of the mandalas’ creation throughout the visits, and observe the monks while they work. The mandalas may be viewed from 10am – 5pm each day at each location while they are working on them. Throughout the weeks the monks are here, they will also be offering Tibetan Buddhist rituals and ceremonies, as well as talks, cultural presentations, and family-friendly workshops. In Newport, a special “Monks & Momos” dinner benefit will be offered, with Tibetan stuffed dumplings (momos) handmade by the monks.

In Yachats, special ceremonies marking Tibetan New Year or Losar will be performed the first three days of the visit there. Additional highlights of the three week-long visits include:

* “Butter Sculpture” workshops in each city, along with a demonstration of Tibetan calligraphy, an all-ages and family friendly event. Butter sculptures (or “tormas”) are small, generally abstract figures made of dough and decorated with floral designs or other patterns. They are used in certain ceremonies as ritual offerings, and in the monasteries, can reach heights of 10 feet. In the workshop, participants will learn to make small, handheld ones.

* Tibetan Cultural Nights: featuring a special ceremony with chanting and Tibetan sacred music, followed by a demonstration of the often hilarious and acrobatic “Tibetan monastic debate”, followed by a Q&A with the monks.

* Ceremonies and rituals for overcoming adversities, promoting compassion and understanding, and for personal health and healing.

* Talks and presentations by the senior monks on topics like “Aging, Death, and Rebirth”,

“Lojong” or “mind training” practices, and beginning meditation.

In Newport-only, on Friday, February 27th, the monks will present a very special “Monks and

Momos” benefit dinner, with Tibetan stuffed dumplings (momos) made by the monks. This is a very limited seating offering and the only “tickets in advance” event during the three weeks.

In Yachats February 17th – 22nd, the visit by the monks coincides with Tibetan Lunar New Year, or Losar.

So in addition to the Avalokiteshvara sand mandala, the monks are offering several special evening ceremonies that are traditionally performed during Losar, and will only be presented in Yachats. In Lincoln City, the monks are offering a presentation on basic Buddhist philosophy: The Four Noble Truths, and a “How to” workshop on Meditation.

Special personal blessings, as well as house, land, and business blessings are also being offered by the monks, and can be scheduled by contacting Lincoln County Friends of Tibet.

All proceeds go directly to the Gaden Shartse Phukhang monks building projects at the monastery in India, and are tax-deductible.

For a complete schedule of all events during these three weeks, go to https://LCFriendsofTibet.org or on Facebook: Lincoln County Friends of Tibet. For all other questions, contact LincolnCountyTibet@gmail.com or call 530-748-9365.

THIS WEDNESDAY NIGHT: February 4th at 7:30pm – Newport Symphony Orchestra presents a family concert titled “The Thrill of the Orchestra,” conducted by Helen Cha-Pyo with narration by NSO’s Executive Director, Dan Howard.

Based on the music of Russel Peck, take a musical journey through the different sections of the orchestra and discover the different sounds various instruments make. Learn more at http://coastarts.org/…/family-concert-the-thrill-of-the…

K9 NATO CONTRIBUTES TO PEACEFUL SURRENDER

On Saturday, January 31^st, 2026, Lincoln City Police Department Officers, including Police K9 Nato, responded to assist the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office in establishing a perimeter around a residence on North Westview Drive in Otis, Oregon. LCSO Deputies relayed that they believed 27-year-old Billyray Branum, of Otis Oregon, was barricaded inside and refusing to come out. Branum had an active felony warrant related to a weapons offense.

After an approximate 90-minute standoff Branum agreed to peacefully surrender and came out with his hands raised. He was taken into custody without violence. During a brief interview Branum acknowledged, “I really did not want to get bit.” He was lodged by LCSO Deputies on his warrants.

Although our K9 Officers, as well as Nix and Nato, train rigorously to track and apprehend suspects, the primary goal of our K9 Program is to encourage offenders to surrender peacefully and keep our Officers safe. We would like to express our gratitude to the citizens of Lincoln City for their ongoing support of our K9 Program. We have experienced many peaceful surrenders based on the presence of our K9 partners and are pleased to support our city and neighboring agencies with their hard work.

Depoe Bay Bank Robbery Suspects Detained – Final Update

At approximately 11:48am, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a bank robbery at Columbia Bank in Depoe Bay, Oregon. Callers reported two armed adult males concealing their faces entered the bank and held staff at gun point, demanding access to the vault. Columbia Bank reported the two successfully obtained more than $50,000 in US currency before fleeing south on Highway 101 in a red sedan without license plates.

The red suspect vehicle was abandoned at a vacant lot near NE Stanley and E. Collins Street in Depoe Bay. The vehicle was set on fire. The suspects were seen getting into a grey 4 door Toyota and left the area west as reported by a nearby resident.

At approximately 12:51pm, Newport Police spotted a grey Toyota Camry near Don Davis Park in Newport, Oregon. Witnesses reported seeing two men leave the grey Toyota Camry on foot.

During a search of the area, Newport Police spotted a white male adult matching the description of one of the suspects at the intersection Hwy 101 and Hwy 20. The subject was contacted and detained. A short time later, the second male was spotted at Nye Beach and detained as well. A subsequent canvas of the nearby area around the vehicle revealed clothing found in a public trash can that matched the clothing worn by the suspects in the bank.

NPD K9 Officer Magnum and K9 Sly were used to search the area of Don Davis park and its related trails up to Nye Beach. A large backpack matching the description used in the bank robbery was located and seized. A search warrant for the involved Toyota Camry and backpack was applied for and granted. A search of the items located over $50,000 in cash and two weapons.

Franco Armando Mereno Jr. age 37 of Portland and Jonathon F. Schwentner age 43 of Canby were lodged at the Lincoln County Jail and charged with Robbery I, Kidnap II and Aggravated Theft. This incident is under investigation by the Lincoln County Major Crime Team. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Oregon State Police, Newport Police Department, Lincoln City Police Department, and Toledo Police Department.

Wildlife Rehab Interns Wanted!

Get hands-on experience, learn from experienced rehabilitators, and make a real impact for injured wildlife on the North Coast. Learn more: CoastWildlife.org

Parents of Dane Paulsen the 2-year-old boy Who Drowned Last Year Arrested Following Domestic Dispute

The parents of Dane Paulsen, the 2-year-old boy who drowned last year in the Siletz River were arrested on Friday following a domestic dispute, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office announced.

Aaron Paulsen, 41, and Chamet Jackson, 36, were charged with third-degree assault, fourth-degree assault and recklessness endangering another person after an altercation involving Jackson’s brother, Daniel.

Officials say Daniel, who was charged with fourth-degree assault, started the altercation at a residence in the area of 21000 Siletz River Highway and injured his sister. LCSO also said that Paulsen and Chamet caused injury to Daniel.

“The altercation occurred in the presence of a juvenile child residing at the location. At the time of arrest, the child was reportedly in the care of a family friend. Both Daniel and Chamet were treated at the scene for injuries by the Siletz Valley Fire Department,” officials said.

Two-year-old Dane Paulsen was declared missing on the afternoon of March 1, 2025. On Oct. 16, 2025, Paulsen was charged with second-degree child neglect, months after the body of his son was discovered on the Siletz River.

Agency’s Ruling on Boat Removal Impacts Port of Newport’s Plans

A January 2026 ruling by the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) requires contractors removing derelict vessels to pay prevailing wages, threatening to slow or stall the Port of Newport’s plans to dispose of 17 abandoned boats. The decision, which classifies vessel removal as a “structure” demolition, is expected to increase costs by 10% to 20%, limiting the number of ships that can be cleared, the Lincoln Chronicle reported. Key details regarding the impact on the Port of Newport:

• Increased Costs and Delays: The requirement to pay union wages, mandated for projects using public money by BOLI Commissioner Christina Stephenson, increases financial pressure on the Port’s cleanup efforts, according to the Lincoln Chronicle.
• Port Opposition: Port of Newport Executive Director Paula Miranda described the ruling as “wrongheaded” and warned it will slow down the removal of, according to the Lincoln Chronicle “junk vessels” and worsen the, according to the Lincoln Chronicle situation,.
• Legal Challenge: An attorney for the Port and the Oregon Public Ports Association has challenged the ruling, arguing that derelict boats are not “structures” under state or federal maritime law,.
• Funding Context: The removal project, which involves disposing of up to 17, according to the Port of Newport vessels, is funded by, according to the Port of Newport state grants. 

The ruling is part of a broader, according to the Oregon Journal of Project 2023 legislative effort to clear, according to the Oregon Journal of Project hundreds of derelict vessels from Oregon waterways

Three years ago, the Oregon Legislature accelerated the messy job of removing derelict ships and boats that clog waterways across the state — rotting fishing boats in Newport, abandoned tugs in Coos Bay, rusting barges on the Columbia River.

Lawmakers allocated nearly $19 million to remove and demolish the abandoned vessels. The Department of State Lands, which oversees Oregon’s waterways, quickly began the work, removing large junk boats from waters near Coos Bay, Rainier and St. Helens.

It’s difficult and expensive work — getting rid of a single derelict vessel, the F/V Tiffany, an 84-year-old, 200-ton fishing boat that sank in the Columbia near Rainier, cost $1.42 million in 2023. To date, some of the highest-profile abandoned vessels have been removed, but there are hundreds more to go.

But in December, the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries suddenly increased the costs of the work, angering local government officials at Oregon’s 23 public ports.

Specifically, BOLI decided that the removal program, which has been underway for more than two years, must now pay prevailing – or union — wages to the private contractors who do the work.

The decision cast a cloud over plans to remove 17 derelict vessels from the Port of Newport because the change would add costs and record keeping requirements. Studies in other industries show that prevailing wages can add 10 percent to 20 percent to total project costs.

“It makes no sense to us,” said Paula Miranda, executive director of the Port of Newport, home to the state’s largest fishing fleet. “This just makes things worse.”

Port managers responsible for getting rid of the fleet of junk vessels say BOLI’s ruling is wrongheaded and will slow the response to a chronic problem.

Since BOLI Commissioner Christina Stephenson won election in 2022, her agency has increasingly ruled that projects that use public money must pay union wages. That has pleased the unions that supported Stephenson with most of the $1.8 million she raised for her election campaign. But it has also made that work more expensive.

As the Oregon Journalism Project has reported, BOLI’s prevailing wage determinations on planned housing projects across the state have added costs to many and caused others to be delayed or canceled.

The agency had not previously taken a position on boat removal work. But on Dec. 11, BOLI issued a ruling that Siletz Boat Works would have to pay prevailing wages on its work in Newport because getting rid of unwanted vessels would include demolition of “structures.”

Generally speaking, BOLI requires public works projects, including construction or demolition of structures that spend at least $50,000 in public money, to pay prevailing wages. Stephenson ruled that scrapping junk boats met the agency’s criteria.

“Demolition’ includes the dismantling, razing, destroying, wrecking, or removal of buildings or other structures,” Stephenson wrote. “The common meaning of ‘structure’ is ‘something constructed or built’,” citing a dictionary definition.

Darien Loiselle, an attorney for the Port of Newport and the Oregon Public Ports Association, wrote to BOLI on Dec. 23 to strongly disagree. He contends that work done on navigable waterways is not governed by the state but by federal maritime law and that classifying derelict boats as structures is incorrect.

“Removal of derelict vessels does not involve work on a ‘structure’ as a vessel is not a ‘structure’ under state or federal maritime law,” Loiselle wrote. In his letter, the ports’ attorney asked for a hearing — effectively an appeal — of BOLI’s determination.

BOLI’s ruling came as a surprise to the port industry.

Miranda says if the agency’s determination stands, fewer derelict vessels would be removed because the prevailing wages the agency wants contractors to pay are significantly higher than market wages.

“This will deplete the amount of money the Department of State Lands has to spend,” Miranda says. “That means fewer vessels will get removed.” (SOURCE)

Toledo City Council Considers Partnering With U of O

The Toledo City Council met January 21, with a packed agenda including a detailed discussion regarding a potential partnership with the University of Oregon’s Sustainable City Year Program (SCYP). Councilors examined the opportunities and implications of collaborating on ambitious community projects that leverage academic expertise and resources. The SCYP is a statewide initiative that connects Oregon cities with university students and faculty from various public institutions.

Through structured partnerships, cities can propose year-long or individual projects across disciplines like planning, engineering, economic development, and sustainability. The university brings teams of students and faculty to work hands-on with municipal leaders, delivering research, survey work, program design, and innovative solutions tailored to city goals. During the meeting, councilor discussions emphasized that Toledo could benefit greatly from this partnership, especially considering the city’s limited staff capacity and budgetary constraints. Councilor Keeting noted, “This program is twofold: it creates capacity for cities that want to tackle valuable projects but may not have the manpower, while also providing hands-on learning for students and educators.”

A focal point in the conversation was the revitalization of Main Street—an idea that resonated with council members, city staff, and local business advocates alike. The vision discussed involved bringing in university talent to help develop a comprehensive community business needs survey, analyze what types of businesses are likely to thrive in Toledo, and recommend a recruitment strategy to attract the right fit for Main Street. This approach, participants suggested, would be ambitious yet cost-effective, requiring minimal direct outlay from the city’s coffers but offering potentially transformative results.

Funding was a central concern. Councilors explored whether the cost, which could range as high as $100,000 depending on project scope, could be managed through partnerships with nonprofits, grants, or urban renewal funds—rather than depleting the general fund. The conversation reflected a desire to secure external funding and tap into resources like the Oregon Community Foundation to minimize local fiscal impact. There was consensus that an academic partnership of this caliber could open doors for grant eligibility and philanthropic investment, especially if the project emphasized revitalization in a rural community context.

Council members were also eager to gain insights from cities that have previously collaborated with SCYP. They authorized city staff to reach out to other municipalities and program officers, aiming to gather first-hand testimonials and advice on structuring a successful partnership. Timing for participation was also discussed. With a March 1 deadline to announce interest in the SCYP’s next cycle, councilors proposed holding a dedicated work session in February to refine their project proposal and determine if, and how, they would move forward. “We don’t have to commit any finances or staff time by March, just express our intent to participate,” one councilor reassured colleagues.

Throughout, the tone of the discussion was optimistic and forward-looking. The council recognized that, in a time of tight budgets and grand ambitions, forming creative partnerships with universities could dramatically expand Toledo’s capacity to plan, innovate, and invest in its future. As the city prepares for the work session and explores project ideas, participants agreed that a successful collaboration with the University of Oregon’s Sustainable City Year Program could become a model for other small cities in Oregon—demonstrating how academic partnerships can bring energy, expertise, and hope to local government and community development. (SOURCE)

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. 

Controversy and Chaos as DHS Officers and Demonstrators Clash in Eugene

Slowed and Zoomed Video of DHS Officer Breaking the Window

As far as I can tell this was the most significant property crime done Friday night, yet it was done by the DHS themselves. https://packaged-media.redd.it/mors7hjoxygg1/pb/m2-res_720p.mp4?m=DASHPlaylist.mpd&v=1&e=1770062400&s=f927e60d481c470a86f1a4c7f7007ef29b33013f0:18 / 0:29

On Sunday, Governor Tina Kotek, Eugene Mayor Kaarin Knudson, Congresswoman Val Hoyle, and several other local community leaders addressed the press in an effort to ease tensions in Eugene after ICE and DHS clash with peaceful protestors over the weekend.

“Peaceful protest is an important constitutional right,” said Gov. Kotek. “I would argue our ability to protest is in the DNA of Oregonians and we are seeing protests across our state. It’s also true that we can do that without breaking the law, damaging property, or putting other people at risk.”

On Friday night, several demonstrators broke windows at the downtown federal building, leading to a declaration of a riot by Eugene police. Federal agents responded by using tear gas and pepper spray on the crowd.

Eugene Mayor Kaarin Knudson is advising peaceful protesters to avoid the federal building to prevent further damage and a heightened federal response.

“To all of the extraordinary peaceful protesters who have been showing up across our community, you are not doing anything wrong,” Knudson said. “Peaceful protest is a sign of health in a functioning democracy. It does not include property damage or vandalism or assault. Those actions have real consequences, and people will be held accountable for them.”

Val Hoyle is warning Oregonians that further illegal behavior may lead to increased deployment of federal forces, similarly to recent activities in Minneapolis.

“If we don’t break the law, that means they cannot gaslight us into saying that they are entitled and that they have a reason to bring more forces,” said Hoyle.

President Trump announced Saturday that the Department of Homeland Security will not intervene in protests in Democratic-run cities unless requested, but emphasized that federal forces will protect federal buildings.

“I have no intent of asking the federal government to intervene in our community affairs here. I have a lot of faith in local law enforcement,” said Kotek. “I also have, primarily, a lot of faith in Oregonians to peacefully protest and let their voices be heard.”

ONA Statement on ‘Labor Against ICE’ March

On Saturday, January 31, at a peaceful march in Portland organized by Oregon’s labor unions; workers, children, and community allies were tear-gassed by federal agents. The use of chemical agents against nonviolent demonstrators is dangerous, unacceptable and an attack on Oregon’s working families.

Peaceful protest is a fundamental American right. When federal agents respond to lawful, nonviolent demonstrations with force, they undermine public trust and put workers, patients and entire communities at risk.

The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) strongly condemns these actions. We will not be intimidated, and we will not accept violence as a response to organizing, dissent, or advocacy. Attacks on working people are attacks on the health and safety of our communities.

Even in the midst of this aggression, ONA’s strength was evident. Frontline nurses and healthcare professionals immediately did what they do best: caring for people in need and providing treatment to those exposed to chemical agents.

Their response reflects the core values of nursing and healthcare—protecting health, safety, human dignity and human rights, especially in moments of crisis.

ONA will continue to stand up for Oregon’s immigrant community—by taking action in our streets, holding hospitals accountable, protecting patients, and advancing policies like the Healthcare Without Fear Act—legislation that establishes clear standards and accountability for federal agents operating in healthcare settings and our communities.

Please visit OregonRN.org/CareWithoutFear for more information and to take action.

ONA remains committed and ready to stand on the frontlines to defend all Oregonians from threats to their safety, health, and fundamental rights. 

###The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) represents a diverse community of more than 24,000 nurses and healthcare professionals throughout Oregon. Together, we use our collective power to advocate for critical issues impacting patients, nurses and healthcare professionals including a more effective, affordable and accessible healthcare system; better working conditions for all healthcare professionals; and healthier communities. For more information visit www.OregonRN.org.

Protesters and officials react to federal agents’ tear gas use in Portland

Oregon officials and protesters respond after federal agents deploy tear gas on demonstrators in Portland Saturday.

Hundreds of protesters marched about two miles from City Hall to the ICE facility in South Waterfront on Saturday, responding to the actions of federal agents, according to witnesses.

In a social post, the Portland Police Bureau (PPB) confirmed that federal law enforcement has deployed munitions, including irritant gas at the ICE facility in South Portland. The bureau also clarified that PPB did not deploy any munitions. 

Video captured during the protest shows a young girl receiving medical attention after reportedly being exposed to tear gas following a union rally against ICE.

Mark Remy, the man who recorded the video, told KGW the girl cried, saying, “It hurts. It hurts,” while a medic helped flush her eyes. “I just thought, ‘What have we come to,’” Remy said.

Protester Sarah Slusarick said federal agents could clearly see the crowd, which included children and animals. “They were pretty clued in as to what they were doing,” she said.

Jess, another protester, described the federal response as “callous and heartless and willfully violent towards children and the elderly.”

The protest and use of tear gas drew attention from state and local officials.

Video captured during the protest shows a young girl receiving medical attention after reportedly being exposed to tear gas following a union rally against ICE.

Mark Remy, the man who recorded the video, told KGW the girl cried, saying, “It hurts. It hurts,” while a medic helped flush her eyes. “I just thought, ‘What have we come to,’” Remy said.

Protester Sarah Slusarick said federal agents could clearly see the crowd, which included children and animals. “They were pretty clued in as to what they were doing,” she said.

Jess, another protester, described the federal response as “callous and heartless and willfully violent towards children and the elderly.”

The protest and use of tear gas drew attention from state and local officials.

RELATED: Federal officers tear gas, pepper ball demonstrators at Portland ICE facility after ‘ICE Out’ march downtown

Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek, a Democrat, said, “I do believe excessive force has been used last night in Portland.” Kotek added that federal agents must stop “indiscriminate and unlawful uses of crowd control tools.”

Portland Mayor Keith Wilson wrote that the city is “moving swiftly” to impose a fee on detention facilities that use chemical agents. The ordinance enabling the fee went into effect last month.

Cami Saunders of Portland Contra Las Deportaciones said the city’s current actions are insufficient. “They issued the land-use violation in September and have yet to collect fees for that…we need emergency legislation to shut down the building and prevent them from continuing to tear gas our communities,” she said.

Portland City Councilor Mitch Green asked residents who were tear-gassed to share their experiences, while Councilor Sameer Kanal is developing policy to prevent the use, storage or possession of tear gas within city limits. Portland police made no arrests at the ICE facility Saturday night. (SOURCE)

Cascades Red Cross Deploys Disaster Relief Volunteers to aid in Winter Storm Response

The American Red Cross is providing shelter to more than 4,000 people in 210 facilities spanning from Texas and Louisiana to Tennessee and Virginia, in response to the blizzard conditions and extreme freezing temperatures affecting much of the country.

The Red Cross Cascades Region (OR and SW WA) has deployed 7 volunteers and 4 more are on standby if they are needed.

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

All who come to give Jan. 26-Feb. 28, 2026, will receive a $20 e-gift card to a merchant of choice. See RedCrossBlood.org/Heart for details.

These volunteers will be helping with things like sheltering, feeding and distributing emergency supplies.

This extreme weather has also forced the cancellation of hundreds of blood drives in the affected areas, leaving 10,000 units uncollected, intensifying our blood shortage.

Read more about that HERE: https://www.redcross.org/about-us/news-and-events/news/2026/severe-winter-weather-intensifying-severe-blood-shortage–more-t.html

How can people in Oregon and SW Washington help? Make an appointment to donate blood at https://www.redcrossblood.org/ and help keep the supply strong for hospitals and patients.

Original blood shortage release:

Severe blood shortage: Red Cross blood supply drops 35%

Donors urged to make an appointment to give blood and platelets amid growing flu, winter weather impact

[PORTLAND, OR, Jan. 20, 2026] —

The American Red Cross is facing a severe blood shortage as requests from hospitals exceed the available supply of blood, leading to about a 35% drawdown of blood products in the past month. Individuals are urged to give now so patients don’t face delays in lifesaving care. The shortage is especially serious for platelets, types O, A negative and B negative blood.

High flu activity in nearly every state may be sidelining donors, slowing efforts to rebuild the Red Cross national blood supply. At the same time, hospitals already feeling the strain of the worst flu season in nearly 20 years are now also forced to triage critical blood products. Without immediate action, patients who count on transfusions — including trauma victims, mothers in childbirth and people with sickle cell disease or cancer — face serious risk. 

Weather disrupts vital donations

About 400 blood drives were impacted due to extreme winter weather last month alone — more than three times the number of blood drives impacted during the same time the previous year. As a result, thousands of blood donations have gone uncollected. With intense winter weather and freezing temperatures expected across much of the country in the coming weeks, more blood drives could potentially be delayed or canceled at a time when every unit of blood could be the difference for doctors facing difficult choices about which patients receive blood transfusions and who will need to wait.

“Winter always puts pressure on the blood supply, and this year widespread flu and rough weather are making it even tougher,” said Paul Sullivan, senior vice president of Red Cross donor services. “If you’re able, now’s a great time to make and keep blood donation appointments, during National Blood Donor Month. Every donation can be a lifeline for a patient who isn’t able to hold off on critical care.”

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, servicing 65 hospitals in the Pacific Northwest; 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.

Oregon launches Construction Loan Guarantee Program to reduce barriers for affordable housing development

Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) and the Network for Oregon Affordable Housing (NOAH) launch the Construction Loan Guarantee (CLG) Program. 

The program decreases risk to lenders, making it easier for developers to access construction loans to build affordable homes for people with low to moderate incomes.  

“This program is a critical step toward addressing Oregon’s housing shortage,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell. “The goal of this program and partnership is to concretely reduce barriers for lenders and developers, making way to get more homes built across Oregon.” 

In 2023, the Oregon Legislature allocated $20 million to OHCS to establish the program. Following a request for proposals (RFP) process, OHCS awarded the funding to NOAH to administer the program. Eligible projects may include single-family homes, manufactured home communities, and multifamily rentals.  

“NOAH is excited to be launching this Construction Loan Guarantee Program. It is designed to give lenders more confidence to invest and help projects secure better terms to ensure more affordable housing units can be developed,” said NOAH’s Deputy Director and Director of Lending Ann Remmers. “We’re especially hopeful about the impact this will have on smaller developments and rural communities, supporting both rental homes and homeownership. We encourage developers and lenders to reach out.”  

By providing lenders with extra financial security up front, CLG increases their ability to make loans to projects. These loans make developing affordable housing easier, creating more certainty in the face of unpredictable factors like interest rates, material costs, or supply chain issues.  

Visit the NOAH CLG webpage for more program details and how to apply.   

About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) 

OHCS is Oregon’s housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of low and moderate income. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs. 

About the Network for Oregon Affordable Housing (NOAH)  

The Network for Oregon Affordable Housing (NOAH) is a nonprofit community development financial institution (CDFI) that provides financing for the development and preservation of affordable housing throughout Oregon. Formed in 1990 to increase the supply of safe, healthy, and stable housing, NOAH now administers over $400 million of loan capital through a growing array of loan programs to support the preservation and development of new affordable housing.

Direct cash assistance from the state is helping homeless Oregon youth find housing, according to the results of a pilot program that concluded last year.

In February 2023, the Youth Experiencing Homelessness Program at the Oregon Department of Human Services began providing 120 youth in Multnomah, Clackamas and Deschutes counties ages 18-24 experiencing homelessness with $1,000 monthly until January 2025.

By the end of the two-year period, 94% of participants reported they were housed. Many also reported that they had improved their financial literacy skills, such as learning how to budget and build credit — skills that allowed them to leave unsafe or unstable situations.

The results of the pilot Direct Cash Transfer Plus program are encouraging and a worthwhile investment, said Matthew Rasmussen, program manager for the Youth Experiencing Homelessness Program.

“If somebody is really wanting to explore how to slow and end chronic homelessness among adults, then we need to do something to stop young people from entering it,” Rasmussen said. 

Young adults aged 18 to 24 experience the highest poverty rates of any age group, according to research from the University of California, Berkley. In 2024, Oregon had the second highest rate of unsheltered unaccompanied youth in the country, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Based on responses from about half of the program’s participants, 80% of participants became homeless because of a family disruption. Forty-three percent said they had experienced physical abuse by a partner and 71% said they had experienced violence of some kind.

The program prioritized underrepresented populations. That includes young parents, who made up 43% of participants by the end of the period. Forty-six percent of participants also reported they had experience in the foster care and justice system.

More than half of participants were women, while 30% were male and 18% identified as transgender or gender inclusive. 

Gabrielle Huffman, a Bend resident, said the program helped her move into a place where she could heal, grow and plan for a sustainable future.

“Just one year after completing (the program), I’m in my own place, halfway through a business degree, focused on building a stable, secure foundation for my daughter and myself, and working toward becoming a nonprofit leader who supports her community.”

To participate, the youth regularly met with case managers. They also had access to a one-time $3,000 enrichment fund during the two years, which helped them pay not just for housing, but for school expenses, car purchases and to build savings. 

Oregon is the second of its kind in the nation to implement the direct cash transfer program after New York City. Funded through the Oregon Department of Human Services, the goal of the program is to let youth choose how to spend their money and empower them to make investments in their own well-being. 

“Oregon’s results confirm what we saw in New York: When you cover the real cost of shared housing directly for two years — and pair it with support — young people stay housed,” said Larry Cohen, the cofounder and executive director at Point Source Youth, an organization that provided technical assistance to Oregon as it implemented the program. “This isn’t complicated. Stability takes time, and flexible cash gives young people the breathing room to build it.”

The direct cash transfer program is already underway for a second cohort. Payments began in September and have expanded to Jackson County. Funding for the latest round includes $240,000 worth in legislative appropriations and a $1 million grant from nonprofit Oregon Community Foundation. (SOURCE)

DFR fines LoanMart $660,000 for charging excessive interest in consumer loans; company to repay $900,000 to Oregon borrowers

The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) issued a cease-and-desist order against Wheels Financial Group LLC, doing business as LoanMart, for facilitating consumer finance loans that exceed the 36 percent interest rate cap under Oregon law. The company agreed to remedy all illegal loans and repay $900,000 in excessive interest charges to Oregon consumers. The order also included fines totaling $660,000 that will be suspended and waived after three years as long as the company complies with the terms of the final order.

From 2019 to 2023, LoanMart solicited and brokered consumer finance loans as part of an arrangement with an out-of-state bank. In what is commonly referred to as a “rent-a-bank” arrangement, LoanMart collected finance charges that ranged from 126 percent to 178 percent interest. In addition, the loan agreements provided for attorney fee provisions that exceeded the permissible scope for consumer finance loans and, under certain circumstances, would have required each borrower to pay attorney fees associated with attorneys who were salaried employees of LoanMart. Finally, the loan agreements contained impermissible hold harmless clauses.

The requirements of the order applied equally to LoanMart’s affiliate, WFG Purchaser LLC. WFG purchased a substantial majority economic interest in the loans at issue and did not hold a consumer finance license, prohibiting them from collecting, receiving, or retaining any interest, fee, or charge related to, or in connection with, the loans.

“Consumer finance companies cannot hide behind out-of-state banks to bypass Oregon’s consumer protection laws,” DFR Administrator TK Keen said. “We will continue to take steps to police our market to ensure that Oregonians get a fair shake when it comes to borrowing money.”

Oregon takes steps to protect SNAP access in rural communities starting Feb. 1

Starting February 1, 2026, some people who receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food benefits and live in certain rural counties will not have to meet the work rules for the rest of 2026. This change is for people who live in areas where employment services that help them meet the requirements are not readily available.

This change affects 1,310 people living in Crook, Gilliam, Jefferson, Lake, Morrow, Sherman and Wheeler counties.  More than 730,000 people in Oregon receive SNAP benefits.

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) will apply these discretionary exemptions for people with an Able-Bodied Adult Without Dependents (ABAWD) status who live in seven rural counties without local employment service centers.

Under recently changed SNAP rules, having ABAWD status means people are between ages 18 and 64, do not have children under 14 living with them, and are able to work. Federal rules say that people in this group must work or take part in approved job or training activities for at least 80 hours a month to keep getting SNAP. If they do not, they can only get SNAP for three months. After that, their benefits stop and they cannot get SNAP again for up to three years, unless they qualify for an exemption.

While the exemptions in these seven counties are not related to the federal HR1 law passed in July 2025, HR1 did significantly alter how SNAP is administered in Oregon, including expanded work requirements statewide.

What people living in affected counties need to know

• Discretionary exemptions will be applied automatically each month beginning February 1, 2026 through December 2026.
• No action is required from people receiving SNAP in the affected counties.
• ODHS eligibility staff will continue to review and apply other SNAP exemptions at application, renewal and when changes are reported.

People who want to confirm their exemption status can:

• Check their ONE Online account,
• Contact the ONE Customer Service Center at 800-699-9075, or
• Reach out to a local ODHS office.

People in the seven counties are encouraged to continue participating in job training and employment services. Continued participation will not affect a person’s exemption status.

Supporting food access in rural Oregon

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service, the federal program that administers SNAP, allocates a limited number of discretionary exemptions to each state each federal fiscal year based on the estimated number of people subject to SNAP time limits. Oregon received its allotment for federal fiscal year 2026 in December and is using these exemptions where access barriers are greatest.

The Oregon Employment Department provides employment and training services statewide through local WorkSource centers to SNAP participants with ABAWD status. The seven counties included in this change do not have a local WorkSource center, which can mean long travel distances or reliance on phone or internet access that may not be consistently available in rural areas.

Under federal guidance, discretionary exemptions are limited and may only be used for certain periods. Oregon plans to apply these exemptions in the seven counties from February through December 2026.

This change is not related to the federal HR1 law passed in July 2025 and does not reflect a new federal law or mandate. It is a state-level administrative action allowed under existing federal SNAP rules.

About SNAP in Oregon:

• SNAP is a cornerstone of Oregon’s fight against hunger, helping more than 1 in 6 people in Oregon, approximately 27 percent of households, afford groceries. This includes children, working families, older adults, and people with disabilities.
• Every $1 in SNAP benefits generates $1.50 to $1.80 in local economic activity. SNAP drives an estimated $1.6 billion into the Oregon economy each year.
• But even with SNAP benefits, many families still struggle to meet their basic needs, especially amid the rising cost of food and housing. Everyone deserves access to healthy food, and the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is committed to making sure people in Oregon receive the right amount of SNAP food benefits they qualify for.

The Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries is offering grants for qualified historic cemeteries. The annual grants fund projects that preserve historic cemeteries.

Projects funded in the past include marker repair workshops, fencing, signs, interpretive panels and brochures, security lighting, access improvements, records management, and more.

Awards typically range between $1,000 and $8,000, but have been higher. Anyone may apply for a grant. Projects must be related to historic cemeteries listed with the Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries. Recent projects include marker repair and workshops in several cemeteries, installations of signs and informational kiosks, a preservation plan, and a fence replacement. 

“Our goal is to preserve Oregon’s historic cemeteries and offer support throughout the application process,” said historic cemeteries program coordinator Kuri Gill. 

The online grant application is simple to use and includes plenty of support.  A free, online workshop specific to this grant and how to use the online grant application system will be offered February 24, 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Registration is required. Recorded trainings and tips are also online.

State law established the seven-member historic cemeteries commission to maintain a listing of all historic cemeteries and gravesites in Oregon; promote public education on the significance of historic cemeteries; and help obtain financial and technical assistance for restoring, improving and maintaining their appearances.

These grants support the goals of the Oregon Historic Preservation Plan and the Oregon Heritage Plan. To learn more about the grants or workshops visit www.oregonheritage.org. For additional information, translation, and accessibility needs contact Kuri Gill at Kuri.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-0685.

BANK ROBBERY SUSPECTS DETAINED – FINAL UPDATE

At approximately 11:48am, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a bank robbery at Columbia Bank in Depoe Bay, Oregon. Callers reported two armed adult males concealing their faces entered the bank and held staff at gun point, demanding access to the vault. Columbia Bank reported the two successfully obtained more than $50,000 in US currency before fleeing south on Highway 101 in a red sedan without license plates.

The red suspect vehicle was abandoned at a vacant lot near NE Stanley and E. Collins Street in Depoe Bay. The vehicle was set on fire. The suspects were seen getting into a grey 4 door Toyota and left the area west as reported by a nearby resident.

At approximately 12:51pm, Newport Police spotted a grey Toyota Camry near Don Davis Park in Newport, Oregon. Witnesses reported seeing two men leave the grey Toyota Camry on foot.

During a search of the area, Newport Police spotted a white male adult matching the description of one of the suspects at the intersection Hwy 101 and Hwy 20. The subject was contacted and detained. A short time later, the second male was spotted at Nye Beach and detained as well. A subsequent canvas of the nearby area around the vehicle revealed clothing found in a public trash can that matched the clothing worn by the suspects in the bank.

NPD K9 Officer Magnum and K9 Sly were used to search the area of Don Davis park and its related trails up to Nye Beach. A large backpack matching the description used in the bank robbery was located and seized. A search warrant for the involved Toyota Camry and backpack was applied for and granted. A search of the items located over $50,000 in cash and two weapons.

Franco Armando Mereno Jr. age 37 of Portland and Jonathon F. Schwentner age 43 of Canby were lodged at the Lincoln County Jail and charged with Robbery I, Kidnap II and Aggravated Theft. This incident is under investigation by the Lincoln County Major Crime Team. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Oregon State Police, Newport Police Department, Lincoln City Police Department, and Toledo Police Department.

OREGON IN TOP 10 OF AMERICA’S MOST ARTS-VIBRANT COMMUNITIES
Oregon Arts Commission

SMU DataArts Unveils Top 100: Oregon’s Creative Economy Shines on National Stage

Oregon has once again secured its place as a national cultural powerhouse, ranking No. 10 in the 10th annual SMU DataArts Arts Vibrancy Index. This marks the third consecutive year Oregon has appeared in the top 10, underscoring a sustained commitment to the arts and culture that spans from our bustling metro centers to our historic rural hubs.

From the world-class stage of the Oregon Symphony in Portland and the Hult Center in Eugene to the murals and bronze trails of Pendleton and the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland, our vibrancy comes from a unique blend of urban innovation and deep-rooted rural traditions statewide.

“Oregon’s creative landscape has long drawn people to live, work and create here,” said Amy Lewin, director of the Oregon Arts Commission and the Oregon Cultural Trust. “This recognition belongs to Oregonians who fuel this vibrancy, leveraging resources and innovation to strengthen arts and culture in every corner of the state. Their creativity shapes the roadmap for a thriving future.”

While the index traditionally looks at data-driven metrics like supply, demand and public investment, for Oregonians, this ranking reflects a lived reality: a state where creativity is woven into the landscape. Oregonians don’t just consume art and culture; they live it.

To mark its 10th anniversary, SMU DataArts expanded its list to 100 communities, analyzing more than 900 areas nationwide. The index measures 13 unique factors, including the number of independent artists, total nonprofit arts and culture dollars and government support.

“Oregon’s ranking is a testament to the fact that arts vibrancy isn’t accidental,” said Dr. Jennifer Benoit-Bryan, executive director of SMU DataArts. “It is built through long-term commitment to funding, public investment in infrastructure, and a culture that values creativity as essential to quality of life.”

For more information on the Arts Vibrancy Index and to explore the data for specific Oregon communities, please visit https://culturaldata.org/arts-vibrancy-2025.   

About the Oregon Arts Commission — The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, funding and arts programs through its grants, special initiatives and services. Nine commissioners, appointed by the governor, determine arts needs and establish policies for public support of the arts. The Arts Commission became part of Business Oregon (formerly the Oregon Economic and Community Development Department) in 1993, in recognition of the expanding role the arts play in the broader social, economic and educational arenas of Oregon communities. In 2003, the Oregon Legislature moved the operations of the Oregon Cultural Trust to the Arts Commission, streamlining operations and making use of the Commission’s expertise in grantmaking, arts and cultural information and community cultural development. The Arts Commission is supported with general funds appropriated by the Oregon Legislature and with federal funds from the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as funds from the Oregon Cultural Trust. More information about the Oregon Arts Commission is available online at: artscommission.oregon.gov.

About SMU DataArts — SMU DataArts, the National Center for Arts Research, is a project of the Meadows School of the Arts at Southern Methodist University. The mission of SMU DataArts is to provide the evidence-based insights needed to collectively build strong, vibrant and equitable arts communities. Its research efforts range from academic papers published in leading journals, applied research undertaken with community partners, and actionable insights shared directly with arts practitioners. Its programs provide business intelligence tools and resources to help arts leaders leverage data to answer critical management questions and connect research analyses to their own work.

The Oregon Department of Human Services, along with the Oregon Health Authority, has indicated a requirement for an additional $340 million in state funding and 475 more personnel by June 2027.

This is necessary to meet the new obligations imposed by the extensive 2025 tax and budget-cutting legislation proposed by Republicans. The primary reason for this need is the requirement for more personnel to enforce complex work requirements for Oregonians aged 18 to 64 who receive federal food assistance, known as SNAP, or coverage through the Oregon Health Plan.

This information comes from Dave Baden, the deputy director of the state human services agency, among others. Furthermore, Oregon must significantly enhance its eligibility accuracy rates to prevent incurring a federal penalty of nearly half a billion dollars in the 2027-29 period, along with the possibility of additional substantial penalties thereafter.

Officials have also warned that failing to upgrade its computer systems to comply with new eligibility regulations could result in Oregon violating federal Medicaid timelines and requirements.

Additionally, the federal legislation mandates that Oregon absorb $54 million in program administration costs that the federal government had previously agreed to cover. Moreover, the state is required to secure $105 million to fully leverage the Medicaid reimbursement it anticipates for the current two-year state budget, as stated by legislative budget specialists.

OHSU Hospital had consented to provide this funding to the state, expecting to receive a greater amount in return. However, the bill crafted by the Trump administration, known as H.R. 1, has restricted the amount Oregon can reimburse OHSU.

Governor Kotek is allocating 25 million dollars to hospitals in Oregon to ensure the availability of maternity care, federal money that was given to Oregon for the state’s General Fund.

Kotek has instructed that these funds be drawn from the state’s General Fund. Fifteen million dollars will be designated to support the stabilization of maternity departments in rural hospitals. Ten million dollars will be allocated to larger hospitals.

This initiative arises as several hospitals have had to shut down their maternity departments due to insufficient resources.

Oregon, IRS begin processing e-filed returns; First state refunds expected February 17

Salem, OR—As Oregon and the IRS begin processing electronically-filed tax year 2025 returns today, the Department of Revenue expects the first Oregon taxpayers to receive their refunds—including their share of the state’s $1.41 billion kicker—as soon as February 17.

The department announced earlier this month that taxpayers who choose to file paper returns face a significantly longer wait. For paper filed returns, refunds will not start being issued until early April.

To help taxpayers avoid missteps that could further delay their refund, the department is opening 2026 tax season with a series of best practices suggestions.

File a return to claim your kicker

The kicker is a refundable credit that will either increase a taxpayer’s Oregon state income tax refund or decrease the amount of state taxes they owe. It is not sent to taxpayers separately as a check.

Only taxpayers who filed a tax year 2024 return and also file a tax year 2025 return can receive a kicker. The credit is a percentage of Oregon personal income tax liability for the 2024 tax year.

Personal income taxpayers can determine the amount of their kicker using the “What’s My Kicker? calculator available on Revenue Online. To use the calculator, taxpayers will need to enter their name, Social Security Number, and filing status for 2024 and 2025.

File electronically, request direct deposit

On average, taxpayers who e-file their returns and request their refund via direct deposit receive their refund within two weeks. Those who file paper returns will experience a significantly longer wait in 2026 due to processing delays.

In the closing months of 2025, the IRS was late providing necessary tax forms and information to the Oregon Department of Revenue. As a result, the state’s processing of paper-filed Oregon personal income tax returns can’t begin until the end of March.

 Taxpayers should file just once unless they need to make a change to their return. They should choose to either file electronically or by paper. Doing both will delay processing of their return.

Gather all tax records before filing

In a kicker year, taxpayers can be in a hurry to file their return so they can get their refund as soon as possible. The department warns taxpayers not to get in too much of a hurry. They should make sure they have all necessary records—including Form W-2s from their employers and Form 1099s reporting other income—needed to file a complete and accurate tax return to avoid errors.

Getting in a hurry can cause taxpayers to file before they have all the information necessary to report all of their income. If income reported on a return doesn’t match the income reported by employers, the return, and any corresponding refund, will be delayed.

Revenue Online

Revenue Online is the state’s internet tax portal and is the best way to communicate with the department.

Taxpayers with a Revenue Online account should make sure their information is current before they file. They should check their username, password, and address; and verify any estimated tax payments they’ve made.

Those who don’t have a Revenue Online account can create one. They can simply go to Revenue Online, click “Sign Up” in the box at the top right and follow the prompts.

Download Form 1099-G

The department reminds taxpayers that it no longer mails Form 1099-G to taxpayers. The form reports the amount of refunds, credits, or other offsets of personal income, statewide transit individual tax, TriMet transit self-employment tax, or Lane transit self-employment tax paid during the previous year.

Only those who itemized deductions on their tax year 2024 federal income tax return will need a Form 1099-G to file their tax year 2025 return. Those taxpayers can view and download their Form 1099-G through Revenue Online.

Taxpayers who received unemployment insurance or Paid Leave Oregon benefits in 2025 will receive a separate 1099-G by January 31 from the Oregon Employment Department.

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