Oregon Beach News, Friday 2/27 – Take the Travel Oregon Survey on Coastal Tourism. Florence Crab Crack, Fisher Poets Gathering, Pancake Breakfast, Town Halls and More 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, February 27, 2026

Oregon Beach Weather

Small Craft Advisory Issued: 2:04 AM Feb. 27, 2026 – National Weather Service

...SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM THIS AFTERNOON TO 1 PM PST SATURDAY...

* WHAT...Northeast winds 15 to 25 kt with gusts up to 30 kt and steep seas 8 to 11 ft due to increasing swell and building wind waves.

* WHERE...All areas.

* WHEN...From 4 PM Friday to 1 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

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

The National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts for the Oregon coast (as of Feb 27, 2026) show partly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions with highs in the lower 50s°F and lows in the mid-30s°F. A Small Craft Advisory is in effect for coastal waters, with seas building to 5-7 ft. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (.gov) 

Forecast Details:

• Central Coast: Partly sunny with rain chances Friday, clearing by Tuesday, with highs in the lower 50s°F.
• North Coast Range: Mostly cloudy with areas of frost and patchy fog, highs near 50°F and lows in the 30s°F.
• South Central Coast: Partly cloudy to mostly cloudy with a 30-70% chance of rain showers through the weekend,, with highs in the 50s°F to low 60s°F.
• Marine Conditions: Small Craft Advisory for 8-9 ft seas, N winds 5-10 kt, becoming NE at 10-15 kt. National Weather Service (.gov) +3

For the most up-to-date and detailed hourly forecasts, visit the NWS Portland office website or search specific locations on weather.gov.

It is recommended to check specific, updated local forecasts as conditions can change rapidly on the coast.

Travel Oregon Seeks Opinions in Survey on Coastal Tourism

The Resident Sentiment Survey, conducted by Travel Oregon, asks Oregon residents about their experiences with and perspectives on tourism. Feedback helps guide strategies that support responsible travel and resilient communities, ensuring tourism benefits both residents and visitors alike. The survey is short, anonymous, and open until March 31, 2026—and participants are entered to win up to $1,000 in Amazon gift cards.

How to participate and share:

• Take the survey: Visit or share the Travel Oregon industry site landing page for more details and to see last year’s results
• Share via newsletters: Use this sample invitation, or write your own!
• Hang flyers at your business or around town
• Share the short link:bit.ly/OR26Resident
• Post on social media: Here’s a sample post you can use:

ARE YOU AN OREGON RESIDENT? In partnership with Travel Oregon, we want to hear your perspective on tourism across the state as we work to improve the lives of all Oregonians. Fill out a short, anonymous survey from Travel Oregon by March 31, 2026, and be entered to win up to $1,000 in Amazon gift cards. Your feedback will help encourage responsible travel practices and shape the future of tourism in your community.

To take the survey, go here

Coastal residents have until the end of March to weigh in on their attitudes toward tourism.

Those living on the Oregon coast can reflect how important the issue of tourism is to their communities and economies by leading the way in terms of overall participation.

Of the nearly 7,000 Oregonians who took the survey in 2024, more than 1,800 reported their residences as on the coast. That outpaced the 1,518 Portland-area respondents and the 1,041 who lived in eastern Oregon.

Results of the formally named “resident sentiment survey” are released every two years. The survey, conducted by Travel Oregon, asks Oregon residents about their experiences with and perspectives on tourism.

This year’s survey, coming when some communities are re-thinking their promotional efforts to lessen the impact of tourists, will be used by Travel Oregon to monitor progress against the agency’s own 10-year strategic vision.

Survey questions ask whether respondents in their own various geographic areas of the state are confident that their quality of life will improve in the coming year and whether they would recommend their areas to others as tourism destination points.

Coastal residents two years ago, for instance, said that the negatives associated with the environmental, cultural and social impacts of tourism narrowly outweighed the positive economic aspects. They were also less likely than not to say that their area’s quality of life would improve over the coming year.

FisherPoets Gathering

The Columbia River Maritime Museum is a host location for a handful of workshops again this year! Here’s the lineup at the Museum:

Friday, February 27, 2026:2:30 – 3:45PM Graham Klagg & Kelli Daffron, ‘Going with the Fish, Flows, and Floodplains’ Ford/Kern Room, Main Museum Building

Saturday, February 28, 2026:10:00 – 11:15AM Byron Devos, ‘AI & Creative Writing’Ford/Kern Room, Main Museum Building12:30 – 1:45PM Luke Brockman & Michael Lang, ‘Updates from Wild Salmon Center: Bristol Bay and Oregon’s North Coast’Ford/Kern Room, Main Museum Building 2:00 – 2:15PM Katy Menne, ‘Poetry for Non-Poets’Barbey Maritime Center (east end of Museum’s campus)2:00 – 2:15PM Greg Nietzel & Jill Smith, ‘Maritime Mat Weaving Demos’Sam Johnson Woodworking Shop, Barbey Maritime Center (east end of Museum’s campus) 2:00 – 3:30PM Tom Crestodina, ‘Working Boats on the Columbia Bar’Ford/Kern Room, Main Museum Building

PLEASE NOTE:Only coming to the museum for FPG Workshops? Parking for FPG participants is available in the east lots near the Barbey Maritime Center. Acquire your buttons before arriving at the Museum. We will NOT be selling them and you will not be admitted into any workshops at the Museum without one.

The FisherPoets Gearshack is located at 1162/1180 Marine Dr and is open 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM Friday and Saturday. Information for FisherPoets Gathering Workshops can be found here: https://www.fisherpoets.org/2026-special-events.html

Museum Locations:Columbia River Maritime Museum, Main Building 1792 Marine Drive, Astoria, OR Barbey Maritime Center 2042 Marine Drive, Astoria, OR

Lincoln County DA to Host Community Town Hall in Yachats – Saturday, February 28th

Join the District Attorney’s Office for another informative community town hall focused on transparency, accountability, and public safety on this Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 10:30 AM at the Yachats Commons.  

Town Hall topics will include an overview of our criminal justice process, filing trends and statistics, impact of personnel vacancies on public safety, as well as community questions and discussion.

Commissioner Walter Chuck and Casey Miller have been invited to attend as special guests to join in the discussion and answer community questions regarding these important, impactful topics. Commissioner Miller has confirmed his attendance. Commissioner Walter Chuck has not responded to the invitation. 

This event is free and open to the public. Your voice matters. We look forward to seeing you there.

Gleneden Beach Community Club – Yummy food served by great volunteers, a jigsaw puzzle sale, and Girl Scout Cookies–all happening on Sunday morning at the Community Hall.

The city of Newport is preparing to ask voters to pass a $50 million bond in November to help pay for a litany of upgrades and repairs from sewer infrastructure to park improvements.

The city has identified over 27 possible projects, but a bond would not be able to completely foot the bill. City councilors discussed the bond and other potential revenue sources in their seven-year financial strategy at their Feb. 17 meeting.

Much of Newport’s infrastructure was built in the 1990s and a lack of funding has resulted in deferred maintenance. Now, some of the sewer, water and road infrastructure are starting to fall apart.

There are several projects in need of attention including adding more lighting and accessibility improvements to Sam Moore Park, replacing water transmission lines, fixing sidewalks and streets and expanding the infrastructure at the Nye Beach pump station – which alone is estimated to cost $3 million to $4 million.

If the bond went to the ballot and voters approved it, it would collect $1.36 per $1,000 of assessed property value which translates to about $50 a month for property assessed at $450,000. If passed, the bond would start collecting taxes after the city’s water treatment bond expires in 2029.

Even with yearly utility rate increases, the city’s revenue covers operational expenses for providing water and wastewater services and there isn’t a lot of money for capital improvements. System development charges are earmarked for infrastructure improvements but with a smaller sized town, it takes a long time to accrue the amount needed, city manager Nina Vetter told the council.

“Right now, we only might have 20 percent of the project funded and the bond could get that across the finish line,” Vetter said.

There are also federal, grant funded projects that require matches that would be able to be leveraged with the bond, Vetter said.

The city has had successful bonds in the past including one for the water treatment plant in 2008 and another for the aquatic center that voters approved in 2013.

“Our recommendation is to replace the water treatment plant bond, which expires in June of 2029,” Vetter said.

There are 27 possible capital projects that range from sewer infrastructure to street improvements that total $80 million. The city would seek community comments to understand what the public would want to prioritize for the bond, Vetter said. The city is planning to hold a series of outreach events before any formal action is taken.

But there are other revenue sources available to fill in the gaps that the city could possibly go with. One is a public safety fee. That would look like a monthly charge on utility bills that could fund police, fire, and emergency services – placing less of a strain on the city’s general fund and freeing up money that could be used for capital projects. The city council has not made any decisions about a public safety fee or any other revenue generating tools but is in the beginning stages of identifying different ways to fund capital projects in addition to a bond.

After listening to Vetter’s presentation, city councilors gave a thumbs up and directed staff to continue to pursue the bond as an option for the November general election. Councilors have not yet voted to put the bond on the ballot.

Staff will provide information about the bond monthly at city council work sessions and start doing community outreach. Councilors are expected to make a decision in August whether to put the bond in front of voters. If it does end up on the ballot and voters pass it, property taxes would begin collecting in 2029. (SOURCE)

Oregon Coast Community College and Lincoln County School District Partnership Will Expand East County Educaction Services

Oregon Coast Community College and Lincoln County School District have announced a partnership that will expand college services in East Lincoln County through the use of the former Arcadia School building, located at 1811 NE Arcadia Drive in Toledo. The collaboration will allow OCCC to use space in the building to deliver a variety of programming closer to where residents live.

“This partnership marks a meaningful step forward in OCCC’s service to East Lincoln County,” said Dr. Marshall Mease Roache, President of Oregon Coast Community College. “In my first full year as president, I’ve been asked repeatedly how the College plans to expand its presence in East County. This collaboration with LCSD reflects our shared commitment to educational access and community development.”

OCCC has offered welding instruction at the Port of Toledo since 2020, and the availability of the Arcadia site will allow the College to broaden its offerings in the area. This spring, the College’s Small Business Development Center will deliver workshops on entrepreneurship and marketing, while the College’s Community Education program will deliver workshops on topics ranging from planning for end-of-life to playing Mah Jongg. The College hopes to offer adult basic education — possibly including GED courses and English for Speakers of Other Languages — as early as fall term.

“We’re excited to collaborate with Oregon Coast Community College on this important effort,” said Dr. Majalise Tolan, Superintendent of Lincoln County School District. “This partnership reflects our shared commitment to maximizing existing public resources. By putting the Arcadia building back into service for educational purposes, we’re supporting local students and communities without asking taxpayers to fund new construction. It’s a smart, sustainable way to strengthen access to education across every corner of our 1,200-square-mile county.”

Arcadia School includes original buildings constructed around 1963, with a main building added in 1978. While the site has not been a full-time school since 2006, Arcadia has remained in active use, supporting after-school programs, temporarily housing students during nearby school construction, and serving as home to several district departments. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the facility was adapted to support distance

learning and continues to house records, special education resources, and other district operations like Nutrition Services.

“OCCC is grateful to Lincoln County School District for its spirit of collaboration,” Dr. Roache added. “As we begin to plan and prepare the Arcadia site for new college services, we look forward to working closely with residents and partners in East County to ensure the opportunities we deliver are responsive to local needs.” East County residents who may be interested in leading Community Education workshops in the facility should reach out to the College’s Office of Engagement via email at communityed@oregoncoast.edu or by phone at 541-994-4166. Learn more about Oregon Coast Community College and its growing network of instructional sites at oregoncoast.edu.

Gearhart Man Pleads Guilty to Sexually Exploiting a Child and Possessing Child Pornography

A Gearhart, Oregon, man pleaded guilty today for secretly filming a minor victim while nude and possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

Joseph Tyler Biamont, 35, pleaded guilty to sexual exploitation of children and possession of child pornography.

According to court documents, Gearhart Police discovered that Biamont was in possession of a thumb drive containing secretly recorded videos of the minor victim while nude. The videos were filmed from what appeared to be a dummy smoke detector above the victim’s bed, behind a teddy bear, and from Biamont’s cell phone, depicting the minor victim going to the bathroom, showering, and changing clothes. Biamont is visible in some of the videos. Investigators also found files of CSAM of other minor victims on Biamont’s thumb drive and videos of an adult victim nude in the bathroom.

On May 6, 2025, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a six-count indictment charging Biamont with sexual exploitation of children and possession of child pornography.

On count one, Biamont faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and five years to life of supervised release. On count six, Biamont faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and five years to life of supervised release. He will be sentenced on August 19, 2026, before a U.S. District Court judge.

As part of the plea agreement, Biamont has agreed to pay restitution to the victims.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating the case with assistance from the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office and the Gearhart Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charlotte Kelley is prosecuting the case.

This case was brought in collaboration with Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

A continued public hearing on proposed floodplain code changes will take place Monday, March 2 at 5:30 p.m. at Florence City Hall.

The Florence City Council has spent more than six months reviewing amendments to the city’s Flood Damage Prevention code required under FEMA’s Pre-Implementation Compliance Measures, part of the National Flood Insurance Program’s effort to better protect habitat and comply with the Endangered Species Act in Oregon.

The changes, aimed at achieving a “no net loss” of floodplain functions, would guide how development is reviewed in flood-prone areas to protect fish habitat and sensitive riparian zones — a federal requirement tied to flood insurance eligibility.

Florence defaulted to a permit-by-permit approach after a December 1 deadline passed without locally adopted code, and since late 2024 the council and Planning Commission have held a series of hearings, workshops and continuations as public comment has been taken and draft language refined. 

The hearing comes amid broader state and federal processes, including FEMA’s draft Environmental Impact Statement and implementation plan for NFIP-ESA integration — a process that has drawn public comment and, in some cases, legal challenge over how habitat protections should be applied statewide. Residents may testify in person or via the city’s online options as the council deliberates next steps and potential adoption after the record closes on March 2.

Astoria has to replace rotten pilings along the Astoria Riverfront Trolley line. But the work must be done without harassing the federally protected sea lions living underneath the trestles. 

The Astoria Riverfront Trolley started running along the town’s river almost 30 years ago, on an old railroad line that had been used to ship the city’s canned salmon and logs out to the world. Since the trolley started running, it has attracted all kinds of businesses and visitors. But the old line is much, much older and in need of repair.

And the necessary repair and maintenance need to happen among the federally protected sea lions that hang out under the trestles.

But there’s still a problem: The trolley’s rail line dates back to the 1940s and was built of wood, a material that doesn’t do great on the water’s edge.

“There’s certainly decay,” said Nathan Crater, Astoria’s city engineer. “And that’s why we keep on top of this.”

Each trestle is made up of big wooden pilings, like telephone poles, but bigger. They were pounded into the river’s edge 70 or 80 years ago. Most pilings are fine, but some are rotten.

The city doesn’t have the money right now to cover all $1.6 million of total work needed, but they’re doing the critical stuff now and will catch other problems as they arise.

Scores of sea lions have made a home under the trestles, and they are federally protected, which means they can’t be hunted, captured or even harassed.

The seasonal trolley gives visitors a fascinating glimpse of a busy industrial waterfront. On one end, there are the working docks, where fishermen still bring in salmon and crab. Then a three-mile ride past condos, restaurants, shops and hotels, all squeezed in next to crumbling fish processing plants, working breweries, canneries, old mills and stunning views.

The trolley is scheduled to reopen in March, in time for spring break. People in the area during the busy season need to be careful, because the walking trail, the bike lane and the trolley rails all run along the same space. Anyone who wants a ride can wait at one of the many stations or just wave a dollar at the driver. (SOURCE)

LCPD Seeks Assistance in Locating Juan Antonio Suarez Jimenez
Lincoln City Police 

The Lincoln City Police Department is desperately seeking assistance from the public in locating a wanted suspect, 45-year-old Juan Antonio Suarez Jimenez, of Lincoln City, Oregon.

A nationwide extradition warrant has been issued for his arrest as the suspect in a hit-and-run crash leading to the death of a local pedestrian. If you know of Juan Suarez’s whereabouts, please contact your local law enforcement.

Juan, if you are reading this, please turn yourself in to start bringing closure to those that loved Joe. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of law.

Quarterly Coffee with a Deputy – Newport
Lincoln Co. Sheriff’s Office

The next Quarterly Coffee with a Deputy event with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is just around the corner. Join us on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, from 9:30am – 11am for a cup of coffee and a conversation at Ultralife Cafe (located at 715 NW Beach Drive Newport, OR 97365).

More about these quarterly events:
Every three months our office partners with a local coffee shop in Lincoln County to provide a time, space, and coffee for community members to meet our team and share what’s on their minds. Coffee with a cop events are a friendly and relaxed way for our communities to connect with the deputies that serve them.

These events offer a unique opportunity for community members to directly engage with law enforcement, ask questions, voice concerns, and build positive relationships. Whether you’re a regular coffee drinker or simply curious about the work of law enforcement, this is a chance to connect with our team on a personal level, learn about each other’s experiences, and share local feedback.

Mail Theft Investigation Leads to Arrest

On February 19, 2025, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Deputies received multiple reports of mail theft near NW Kinglet St in Seal Rock. Through the course of the investigation, Deputies learned similar thefts had been occurring in the area, with packages, tax documents, and other mail being stolen over the last few months.

Deputies obtained photographs of the suspect from a nearby security camera, and disseminated these images to neighboring law enforcement agencies to assist in identifying the individual. Through this process, the suspect was identified as Joshua Van Hoorebeke of Toledo. Van Hoorebeke was contacted and taken into custody for Mail Theft (ORS 164.162).

Mail theft is a crime of opportunity and those who commit it are looking for anything of value. Thieves target mail for personal information, such as tax refunds or other checks, personal documents, bank documents, and credit card information. This information can be used to commit additional crimes, such as identity theft and bank fraud. To protect yourself, pick up mail daily, use secure drop-off locations, and report suspicious activity immediately to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service at 877-876-2455 or at MailTheft.USPIS.gov. 

To report mail theft or other suspicious activity, please contact Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office at 541-265-0777.

YACHATS LIONS Announces Launch of Bird City Yachats

Bird City Yachats (BCY) will hold its official launch on March 1st, 1:30 PM at the Yachats Lions Hall when Bird City Oregon will present the designation to the Mayor of Yachats. This will be followed by a talk entitled “Taking Refuge on the Oregon Coast”, a history of our coastal wildlife refuges, which provide critical seabird nesting habitat. BCY is sponsored by the Yachats Lions Club.

In the Fall 2025 the city of Yachats was awarded an Oregon Bird City, the first bird city on the Pacific Coast. This certification rewards cities for their efforts to help wildlife. Bird City Yachats (BCY) is part of a national program, Bird City Network ( https://birdcity.org/) of more than 300 “Bird” cities across the country. A steering committee for BCY has been established to encourage our citizens to protect and enjoy our precious wildlife and to develop projects for their protection.

BCY projects range from education (e.g., speaker series, bird walks) to removing threats (e.g., bird strike prevention) and marketing (e.g., website, ads promoting Yachats as a birding destination). Birds have unique threats. One that kills millions of birds a year is striking windows. In that regard BCY been working with the city manager on window treatments for the new pavilion that will minimize bird strikes. Open pipes and chimneys that can trap birds are another threat. Working together with Seven Capes Bird Alliance, BCY has surveyed 24 state parks in Lincoln County and identified over 150 open pipes which we will help cap.

BCY now has a website (https://birdcity.org/oregon/yachats) and information available at the Visitor Center on birds and birding sites. This month we will unveil a photo exhibition of local birds and wildlife in the children’s section of the new Yachats library.

Established in 1950, the Yachats Lions Club serves Yachats and South Lincoln County. With our motto of “WE SERVE”, we provide service for 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 community use of our clubhouse. Through community donations to the Yachats Lions Thrift Store our sales allow us to donate to local needs such as student scholarships, food pantries, school programs, and conservation projects.

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. For more information, contact Lion Jim Welch at 970-217-4424 or jameswelch1009@gmail.com

Important Siletz Community Survey

The city of Siletz is racing against time to correct what local leaders say is a deeply flawed income survey, one that could cost the community millions of dollars in affordable funding for a new wastewater treatment plant. City of Siletz officials say they first learned of the problem after years of planning with multiple government agencies to finance a long-needed replacement for the town’s aging wastewater treatment facility. During what is known as a “one-stop” meeting, Siletz leaders sat down with agencies such as the Department of Environmental Quality, the Environmental Protection Agency, and other state entities to map out grants, low-interest loans, and loan-forgiveness programs that could make the project financially feasible.

As part of that process, the city renegotiated and modernized its water and sewer agreement with the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. The tribe agreed to pay its proportional share of the new plant, roughly 45 percent to the city’s 55 percent. With a new agreement in place and a $3 million federal grant secured with the help of Representative David Gomberg, it appeared the project was finally on solid footing. That changed abruptly when the city was told its median household income had spiked so dramatically that Siletz no longer qualified for many of the favorable funding options it had been promised. According to the data, the city’s median household income had jumped from somewhere in the $30,000–$40,000 range to about $83,000.

Local officials immediately questioned the accuracy of that figure, saying it does not match what anyone sees on the ground in Siletz. They describe the town as a working-class community with older homes, modest vehicles, and many residents employed in service jobs, mill work, or commercial fishing—not the sort of place where an $83,000 median household income is realistic. Siletz Mayor Willie Woreman pressed state and federal officials on how the number had been calculated, he were told it was based on Census Bureau and HUD housing data. The timing raised additional questions locally, because the income jump appeared shortly after the city had completed its one-stop planning process, and it did not fall in a normal census year.

Despite repeated inquiries, city staff say they never received a clear explanation of why or how the number changed so dramatically. Officials gathered their documentation and tried to make the case that the new figure was wrong, but were told the data would not be revised and that they would have to wait five years for a new cycle. That answer did not sit well with Woreman, who feared that moving ahead under the higher income classification would mean relying on higher-interest loans with no forgiveness, forcing steep increases in water and sewer rates and leaving today’s children and grandchildren paying off debt long after the plant’s useful life.

Unwilling to accept that outcome, the city pushed back. With support from Representative Gomberg and others, Siletz officials lobbied for a path to challenge the number. Eventually they were told that if they wanted to contest the data, they would have to pay for their own survey, partnering with another qualified agency and proving, through statistically valid sampling, that the official income estimate is inaccurate. As a result the city secured grant funding and entered into a partnership with Portland State University to conduct what is essentially a localized, smaller-scale version of the census focused on household income. However, the burden of proof falls heavily on Siletz.

While the original federal process may have relied on a relatively small number of households to generate the $83,000 estimate, the city has been told it must obtain income information from at least 217 households to demonstrate that the median is lower. To reach the required sample size, the city and Portland State University have designed a multi-stage outreach campaign. In the first phase, Siletz mailed out approximately 276 postcards to randomly selected households. Each postcard includes a QR code that residents can scan with their phones, allowing them to complete the income survey online from home. The goal is to receive at least 217 valid responses, with a built-in allowance for a 20 percent non-response or failure rate.

If the initial mail-in and online response falls short, Portland State University staff will travel to Siletz to conduct door-to-door surveying. City leaders are working to get the word out now so that residents understand these visitors are legitimate and that the effort is not a scam. The survey itself is described as short and straightforward, asking primarily about household income, and officials emphasize that all responses are confidential. Should those steps still fail to generate enough responses, the city plans additional follow-up rounds, including phone outreach to households using city records and, if needed, another computer-generated random selection of residents to contact.

To encourage participation, the city is offering a modest incentive: a $10 credit on residents’ water and sewer bills for completing the survey. Officials acknowledge that $10 is not a large amount, but say it is both a gesture of appreciation for people’s time and a sign of how important the survey is to the community’s financial future. Mayor Woreman stressed that the push for accurate income data is not about government intruding into residents’ lives, but about protecting them. He added that the new wastewater treatment plant must be built regardless—the current infrastructure is outdated and the project cannot be deferred indefinitely.

However, if Siletz is forced to rely on high-interest loans with no forgiveness because of inflated income figures, the result will likely be significantly higher water and sewer rates, and long-term debt that could last far beyond the new plant’s 30-year design life. If the community can prove that its true median income is lower, Siletz may once again qualify for more favorable financing options, including loans with partial forgiveness. One scenario described involves a 50 percent loan forgiveness structure: if the city borrowed $4 million, repaid on time over a set period, the government could forgive half, leaving only $2 million to be fully repaid. Local officials say that kind of assistance could make the difference between manageable rates and unsustainable bills.

Throughout the process, Siletz leaders have emphasized that this is fundamentally about fairness and about making sure outside agencies see the community as it really is—a small, low-income coastal town where people work hard, support one another, and are “all doing fine together,” but are far from wealthy. The current outreach effort aims not only to gather data but also to build understanding. By talking publicly about the survey, explaining the stakes, and clarifying that Portland State University staff may go door to door, city officials hope residents will recognize the legitimacy of the project and the importance of their participation. Survey information can be found on the city of Siletz’ website. (SOURCE)

Heceta Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast 

10% off Packages and Retail Items!If you have a birthday or anniversary in March, celebrate along with the Heceta Head Lightstation, whose birthday is March 30th. You will recieve 10% off any Picnic, Package, or retail item when reserving a stay in March 2026. Use Promo code: BIRTHDAY Valid along with any stay March 1-31, 2026.www.hecetalighthouse.com

Wildlife Center of the North Coast

·Join us for a Wild Coast community gathering!As part of the Wild Coast Film Festival, we’ve curated a series of special community events around town throughout the weekend.

Pop-Up Event: Bringing Sea Otters Back to OregonSunday, March 15th, 2026 2:00 p.m. Obelisk Beer Co., Astoria

Hear from the Elakha Alliance, conservation photographer Gretchen-Kay Stuart, and Oregon Coast Aquarium biologist Brittany Blades as they explore the movement to restore sea otters to the Oregon Coast. Learn about the science, storytelling, and conservation efforts behind this important initiative.

This event is free, open to all, and does not require a ticket or reservation. Come be part of the conversation!

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!

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.

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. 

’50 States in 50 Weeks’ visits Oregon

“GMA” spotlights the great state of Oregon and all it has to offer, whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, movie buff or sports fan. https://abcnews.com/video/130562892/

“GMA” visits Mount Hood to explore the state’s natural beauty, rich history and vibrant communities, speaking with tribes and women preserving traditions through dance. https://abcnews.com/video/130563347/

IMAGINATION LIBRARY OF OREGON CELEBRATES MILESTONE: 4 MILLIONTH BOOK MAILED IN THE STATE
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Oregon

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Oregon, a leading early literacy nonprofit dedicated to ensuring young children have access to books at home, proudly announced today that it has mailed its 4 millionth book in Oregon, marking a major milestone in its mission to inspire a love of reading.

This accomplishment reflects years of collaboration between community partners, libraries, educators, and advocates who know that early access to books can profoundly shape a child’s future. In May of 2024 the State of Oregon launched the statewide expansion of the Imagination Library, offering matching funds to strengthen the work of local partners and boost both coverage and enrollment. As a result, in April 2025 the program reached full statewide coverage. Now, in 2026, more than one-third of the 4 million books mailed, 1,394,648 in total, have been mailed since the state joined the effort.

“It has been my joy to partner with the Imagination Library to get more books in the hands of kids by hosting read alouds across the state,” said Oregon First Lady, Aimee Kotek Wilson, of the many library events she has participated in to build awareness for this free resource for Oregon families. “Supporting early literacy initiatives like this is an investment in the bright future of our entire state.”

Started in 1995 by Dolly Parton, the Imagination Library was inspired by her father, who could not read or write—and by her belief that if you can read, you can do anything. The program first arrived in Oregon in 2007. It gifts free, high-quality, age-appropriate books directly to children and their families from birth to age 5. Research consistently shows that children who grow up with books in the home are more likely to develop critical literacy skills and succeed academically.

“Oregon is choosing to be architects of the future. This achievement represents 4 million opportunities for families to share a story, spark imagination, and build early language and literacy skills,” said House Majority Leader Ben Bowman, who has championed the Imagination Library in the legislature. “Over time, these small, consistent interactions lay the groundwork for kindergarten readiness—and they help our youngest kids fall in love with reading.”

Early literacy remains a pressing issue in Oregon, where many children enter kindergarten without foundational skills. By delivering books directly to families, the Imagination Library of Oregon helps remove barriers related to cost and access, levelling the playing field and empowering families.

“Each book mailed is a reminder to families that they are supported, valued, and equipped to be their child’s first and most important teachers,” said Department of Early Learning and Care Director, Alyssa Chatterjee. “Over time, shared reading moments become routines, and those routines become habits that support school readiness and academic success.”

As the Imagination Library of Oregon looks ahead, the organization remains committed to expanding its reach, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring that every child in Oregon has the opportunity to build their own personal library. Currently, 35% of all children under age 5 in the state are already enrolled, in many regions that number is over 50%. With sustained community support and strategic growth, the program will continue building a stronger future—one child, one book, and one personal library at a time.

For more information about the Imagination Library of Oregon or to enroll a child, visit imaginationlibrary.com/oregon.

Oregon Private Job Vacancies Flatten Out in 2025

Oregon private employers reported 58,500 job openings at any given time in 2025. This was essentially unchanged from the 57,800 job openings seen in 2024, according to new data from the Oregon Employment Department’s Job Vacancy Survey.

In research published today, senior research analyst Anna Johnson reports that the health care and social assistance industry saw the strongest level of hiring in 2025, with over a quarter of all vacancies coming from companies in that sector. Most job openings across the state tended to be for full-time and permanent positions. Vacancies with higher education requirements also had a greater likelihood for prior experience requirements, and higher average wages.

Oregon saw record high levels of job vacancies in the recovery from the pandemic recession in 2021 and 2022. Vacancies returned to pre-pandemic levels in 2024 and 2025. For the full analysis, see the article Oregon Private Job Vacancies: 2025 Job Vacancies Remained Flat.

About Workforce and Economic Research

The Workforce and Economic Research Division of the Oregon Employment Department develops and distributes quality economic and workforce information to help Oregonians make informed decisions and support a thriving economy. Staff collect data from state and federal records and surveys; analyze the available information; and share insights with the public in a variety of ways, including regular reports, publications, and the website, QualityInfo.org.

---

The Oregon Employment Department (OED) is an equal opportunity agency. OED provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1444. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to communications@employ.oregon.gov.

El Departamento de Empleo de Oregon (OED) es una agencia de igualdad de oportunidades. El OED proporciona ayuda gratuita para que usted pueda utilizar nuestros servicios. Algunos ejemplos son intérpretes de lengua de señas e idiomas hablados, materiales escritos en otros idiomas, letra grande, audio y otros formatos. Para obtener ayuda, por favor llame al 503-947-1444. Usuarios de TTY pueden llamar al 711. También puede enviar un correo electrónico a communications@employ.oregon.gov.

ATRIO Health Plans is currently facing financial challenges, with an outstanding debt of nearly $60 million owed to Asante for services that have already been provided.

Note: This situation has resulted in a notable alteration in network status for ATRIO members. As stated by Asante, starting January 1, ATRIO’s Medicare Advantage coverage will be considered out of network with Asante.

Members are required to take action before March 31 to prevent any disruption in their care, as new routine appointments will not be accessible after this date, with certain exceptions.

Heather Rowenhorst, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Asante, highlighted their dedication to the community, noting that the non-payment from ATRIO has necessitated challenging decisions.

“This decision underscores our commitment to our communities to ensure the sustainability of Asante and health care in southern Oregon,” Rowenhorst remarked.

Members affected by this change have until March 31 to switch their Medicare Advantage plans. Asante provides resources to assist members in continuing care with their existing providers.

Senate Passes ‘Healthcare Without Fear Act’

Oregon Senate Bill 1570 will hold federal immigration officers accountable inside hospitals, protect patients’ and providers’ rights, and ensure everyone can access healthcare without fearing for their safety.

Healthcare workers applauded Tuesday as the Oregon Senate voted to pass the Healthcare Without Fear Act, Senate Bill 1570, to ensure hospitals are places of healing and trust; not fear or intimidation. The Healthcare Without Fear Act ensures federal immigration agents are accountable to the same standards as state and local law enforcement inside hospitals; safeguards patients’ private health information; and improves Oregonians’ health and safety.

“This bill is not abstract policy—it is a promise. A promise that Oregon’s hospitals will be safe spaces. A promise that violence and intimidation have no place in healthcare settings. A promise that caregivers can do their jobs without fear. And a promise that all patients are treated with the dignity, humanity, and protection they deserve,” said ONA President Tamie Cline, RN. 

The Healthcare Without Fear Act comes after recent federal policy changes have made hospitals, clinics, and schools targets for immigration enforcement actions from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)—including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). In Oregon federal immigration agents shot two people in a hospital parking lot; arrested an entire family trying to take their sick 7-year-old daughter to the ER; and reportedly failed to follow protocols inside hospitals by entering restricted areas, exposing protected health information, and interfering with patients’ care.

Senate Bill 1570 requires hospitals to create policies around all law enforcement interactions, designate a point person to interface with law enforcement to reduce burdens on frontline caregivers, and clearly designate public and private spaces. It protects patients’ privacy by classifying immigration status and place of birth as protected health information and empowers healthcare providers to share information about immigration rights or legal services with patients and their families.

“Our patients do not feel safe seeking necessary and life-saving medical care. This injustice strikes at the heart of our healthcare system,” said ONA member Jayesh Palshikar, RN. “The Healthcare Without Fear Act will protect providers and patients, hold federal officers accountable to basic hospital standards and begin restoring trust in our healthcare system.”

Following today’s successful Senate vote, the bill will move on to the House Committee on Health Care.

More information on the Healthcare without Fear Act can be found at OregonRN.org/CareWithoutFear.

###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.

PacifiCorp Announces Settlement of All Federal Claims for Damages from 2020 Labor Day Wildfires and 2022 McKinney Fire

PacifiCorp has reached a comprehensive settlement for $575 million resolving all known federal government claims for damages related to the 2020 Labor Day wildfires—including the 242, Archie Creek, Echo Mountain, Slater and South Obenchain fires—and the 2022 McKinney wildfire.

“This settlement is another significant milestone demonstrating our ongoing commitment to resolve all reasonable claims related to the devastating fires that affected Oregon and California,” said Ryan Flynn, President of Pacific Power. “Setting aside claims arising from the Beachie Creek/Santiam Canyon fire, we have now settled nearly 90 percent of known claims for a total of more than $2.2 billion, providing certainty for customers and progress toward a financially healthy utility.”

PacifiCorp continues to invest in wildfire prevention and mitigation initiatives, including situational awareness, advanced monitoring technologies, enhanced vegetation management and system strengthening. The company remains dedicated to collaborating with regulators, legislators and customers to develop long-term solutions that address the growing threat of wildfire and other extreme weather events.

A Portland, Oregon, company is recalling nearly 3.4 million pounds of frozen chicken fried rice products sold at Trader Joe’s stores and in Canada because they may contain pieces of glass, U.S. Agriculture Department officials reported.

Ajinomoto Foods North America Inc. pulled Trader Joe’s Chicken Fried Rice from stores nationwide. The frozen product, containing fried rice, vegetables, chicken meat and eggs, is sold in 20-ounce plastic bags. The affected packages have best-by dates of Sept. 8 through Nov. 17, 2026. The products are stamped with the establishment number P-18356 inside the USDA mark of inspection.

The company also recalled cardboard packages containing six bags of frozen Ajinomoto Yakitori Chicken with Japanese-Style Rice with best by dates of Sept. 9 to Nov. 12, 2026. Those products were sold only in Canada.

Oregon is currently facing a significant housing crisis, and recent legislative measures have ignited debate.

Senate Republicans assert that a vital bill designed to decrease construction expenses for affordable housing was obstructed by Democratic leaders in the Senate.

Senate Bill 1566, introduced by Sen. Dick Anderson and Rep. Vikki Breese-Iverson, aimed to reduce costs by 10-20% for affordable housing initiatives. The legislation sought to clarify exemptions from prevailing wage regulations for privately owned developments.

The bill was anticipated to facilitate the creation of 1,300 units in the Eugene Waterfront region and provide housing for homeless veterans. Senate Republican Leader Bruce Starr condemned the decision, stating, “Oregonians always lose when politics takes precedence over people.”

Rural communities throughout Oregon are set to receive approximately $49 million in back payments from the federal government, which local leaders assert will aid in stabilizing vital services.

This funding consists of retroactive payments from the U.S. Forest Service as part of the Secure Rural Schools bill, which was reauthorized in the previous year.

Rural communities throughout Oregon are set to receive approximately $49 million in back payments from the federal government, which local leaders assert will aid in stabilizing vital services.

This funding consists of retroactive payments from the U.S. Forest Service as part of the Secure Rural Schools bill, which was reauthorized in the previous year. The funds can serve as a crucial support system for schools, public safety, and wildfire preparedness.

State issues first 2026 income tax refunds for e-filed returns; Refunds for paper-filed returns won’t start until April

The Oregon Department of Revenue has begun distributing refunds for the 2025 tax year. Through February 17, the department has processed more than 500,000 electronically filed tax returns.

Most taxpayers can expect to receive their refunds within two weeks of the date their return is filed. Some returns, however, require additional review and can take up to 20 weeks before a refund is issued.

Oregon is returning a $1.41 billion revenue surplus “kicker” to taxpayers in 2026. The kicker credit will either increase a taxpayer’s refund or decrease the amount of state taxes they owe.

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. Taxpayers can determine the amount of their kicker using a “What’s My Kicker? calculator available on Revenue Online.

The department encourages taxpayers to file electronically. 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 form information to the Oregon Department of Revenue. As a result, the state’s processing of paper-filed Oregon personal income tax returns will not begin until the end of March. The first refunds for paper-filed returns are not expected to be issued until April.

Taxpayers can check the status of their e-filed refund by using the department’s Where’s My Refund? tool. The Department of Revenue recommends that taxpayers wait one week after they have electronically filed their return to use the Where’s My Refund tool. Paper-filed returns won’t show up in the Where’s My Refund? tool until processing begins in late March. Taxpayers mailing their return should wait two weeks after the department starts processing paper returns in late March or after mailing their return, whichever is later.

The Where’s My Refund? tool has been updated for 2026, providing clear messaging about the status of their return to taxpayers who are signed into their Revenue Online account. Taxpayers who don’t already have a Revenue Online account can create one by following the Revenue Online link on the department’s website. Taxpayers who don’t have a Revenue Online account can still use the Where’s My Refund? tool but won’t be able to see the updated features.

A video outlining the refund process and timelines is also available to help taxpayers understand the process.

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.

In addition to checking the status of their refund, taxpayers can make payments, or get tax forms by visiting the department’s website. Questions can be emailed to questions.dor@dor.oregon.gov.

Taxpayers can also call 800-356-4222 toll-free from an Oregon prefix (English or Spanish) or 503-378-4988 in Salem and outside Oregon. For TTY (hearing or speech impaired), the department accepts all relay calls.

Oregon reports measles outbreak; new wastewater dashboard tracks measles virus by county

Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) medical experts held a media briefing Thursday to give an update on the state’s response to recent measles cases in Oregon and across the country. They also will discuss new measles tracking methods.

The media briefing livestream for members of the public is available via YouTube at this link.

A new data tracking tool Oregon Health Authority (OHA) launched today shows the five confirmed measles cases identified in the state since Jan. 1 likely represent only a portion of infections occurring statewide, public health officials say.

To strengthen early detection, OHA today published a new measles wastewater surveillance dashboard showing viral concentrations by county and categorizing activity as very low, low, moderate or high over two-week periods.

Former Trail Blazer Star Chris Dudley To Run For Governor

The competition for Oregon’s Republican governor candidacy is steep with the latest addition standing a head — or two — above others.

Chris Dudley, a former Oregon Trail Blazer whose career lasted 16 seasons in the NBA, recently announced his entrance into the primary race for the governor’s office.

The 2026 primaries will be Dudley’s second attempt for the state office following a narrow loss in 2010 to Republican candidate John Kitzhaber.

Dudley is on a tour of the state this month, stopping in Klamath Falls last week for an event hosted by the Klamath County Republicans.

Standing 6’11, the former NBA center stayed true to his position with largely nonpartisan issues at the forefront.  His campaign focuses on “education, economy (and) livability,” which, he said, “includes affordability and safety.”  “Those are messages that resonate across party lines,” Dudley said.

A fifth-generation Oregonian himself, Dudley said he wants what’s best for the sixth and, one day, seventh generation Oregonians of his and all local families.

“What we want is pretty simple,” Dudley said. “We want to have schools and education that we’re all proud of. We want our kids to be able to have jobs. We want them to be able to afford to live where they grew up, and we want safe streets.”

The office of governor, he said, is powerful.  “You have powerful tools as governor: power of the pen … power of the purse … power of the pulpit. Being able to restore some balance to our state is critically important,” he said, noting that of all current appointed officials, only one was appointed by a Republican governor.

“Lots of people are believing that we can win because we can,” he said. “And … (it’s) imperative we do so now. It is imperative we change the direction we’re going … It’s imperative that we have somebody come to the table from the outside. I don’t believe … Oregon’s problems are going to be solved by someone who lives out in Salem.”

Dudley is the latest to join the race with 15 candidates in the gubernatorial primaries so far.

Oregon State Parks to hire seasonal Park Rangers, Park Ranger Assistants

Oregon State Parks is hiring seasonal Park Rangers and Park Ranger Assistants for positions across the state for the 2026 season.

Hiring starts as soon as this month and runs through June with new positions listed on a rolling basis on the website. The positions last anywhere from four to nine months. Most seasonal staff work April through September, but some start as early as this month or work as late as December.

Seasonal staff help visitors access world-class experiences and ensure clean and safe park areas for everyone to enjoy. Duties include janitorial work, landscape maintenance, visitor education and visitor services.

Salaries start at $20.28 per hour for seasonal assistants and $23.79 for seasonal rangers. Both positions include comprehensive medical, vision and dental plans for employees and qualified family members. The positions also include paid sick leave, vacation, personal leave and 11 paid holidays per year. Student workers, ages 16 and older, who are enrolled in high school start at $20.27 or more per hour, depending on experience.

Several of Oregon State Parks’ top leaders started their careers as seasonal employees, including all three Region Directors.

“We are focused on developing an engaged workforce by partnering with staff on career development, investing in skill building and fostering a culture of belonging. Whether you’re here for a season or your entire career, you make a difference in protecting and promoting Oregon’s special places,” said interim Director Stefanie Coons.

Seasonal staff gain valuable skills working with experienced Park Rangers at parks around the state. Positions are available in Oregon’s coastal areas, scenic valleys, and mountain regions, offering opportunities to work in some of the most beautiful places in the Pacific Northwest.

For more information about current openings, visit https://bit.ly/oregonparkjobs. If you have any questions or need additional assistance in accessibility or alternative formats, please email Oregon Parks and Recreation Department Recruiting D.Recruiting@oprd.oregon.gov“>OPRD.Recruiting@oprd.oregon.gov.

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, committed to diversity and pay equity.

E-File Your Taxes For Free At Regional Offices

With anticipated delays in paper return processing in 2026, the Oregon Department of Revenue reminds taxpayers planning to file a paper return that they can use public computer kiosks in the department’s regional offices to file their Oregon personal income tax returns for free and get their kicker and their refund sooner.

“The computer kiosks offer a way to file electronically for those without a computer or those who fill out paper forms and want to transfer their data into Direct File Oregon to receive their refund—and their kicker—sooner,” said Megan Denison, administrator of the department’s Personal Tax and Compliance Division.

The computers are set up in the public spaces of the DOR regional offices in Bend, Eugene, Gresham, Medford, and Portland. They are available during business hours to file state tax returns using Direct File Oregon.

On average, taxpayers who e-file their returns and request their refund via direct deposit receive their refunds two weeks sooner than those who mail in paper returns and request a check.

The additional wait will be even longer this year. The IRS was late providing necessary tax forms and information to the Oregon Department of Revenue late last year. As a result, the state’s processing of paper-filed Oregon personal income tax returns won’t begin until the end of March.

The department will begin issuing refunds for e-filed returns February 17. For paper filed returns, refunds will not start being issued until early April.

Offices are located in:

Bend, 951 SW Simpson Ave, Suite 100

Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (closed 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.)

Eugene, 1600 Valley River Drive, Suite 310

Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (closed 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.)

Gresham, 1550 NW Eastman Parkway, Suite 220

Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (closed 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.)

Medford, 3613 Aviation Way, Suite 102

Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (closed 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.)

Portland, 800 NE Oregon St, Suite 505

Monday – Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (closed 12 – 12:30 p.m.)

Now in its third year, Direct File Oregon is an interview-based program similar to commercial software and allows taxpayers the convenience and security of filing directly with the state of Oregon through Revenue Online.

Call for Ideas: America 250 Oregon Commission Invites Public Input on National America250 Time Capsule

On July 4, 2026, America250 will bury the Semiquincentennial Time Capsule within Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia. The stainless-steel cylinder, designed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, is designed to safely store commemorative objects for 250 years until the capsule’s opening on July 4, 2275.

Each state has been asked to contribute a submission that represents its people, stories, and values at this historic moment, and the America 250 Oregon Commission invites the public to share ideas for Oregon’s contributions.

Items should reflect Oregon and its people today and may include creative works, written reflections, or symbolic objects created with long-term preservation in mind. Submissions must fit within a 6″ x 5″ x 2″ archival storage box, ideally made of a nonreactive metal (gold, silver, copper, titanium, platinum) or consist of a single page of archival paper no larger than 8.5″ x 11″. Other materials (such as stone, fabric, glass, clay) may be utilized, recognizing that the potential for long-term degradation is increased.

Oregonians are encouraged to submit recommendations to egon.250@ohs.org” target=”_blank” title=”Oregon.250@ohs.org“>Oregon.250@ohs.org by March 1, 2026. Public input will help inform the Commission’s final selection, ensuring Oregon’s contribution reflects a broad range of perspectives and experiences. Oregon Historical Society 

About the America 250 Oregon Commission — The America 250 Oregon Commission was created through Senate Bill 1531, which was signed into law by Governor Tina Kotek on March 27, 2024. Chaired by the Oregon Historical Society’s executive director, Kerry Tymchuk, the mission of the America 250 Oregon Commission is to coordinate, provide guidance, and ensure that Oregon’s official observance of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States is inclusive and shares the histories of Oregon’s diverse populations, including the histories of the Indigenous peoples who have resided here since time immemorial. Learn more at oregon250.org.

UNDER PRESSURE: A VOLCANIC EXPLORATION, AN EXHIBITION FROM OREGON’S HIGH DESERT MUSEUM, SHEDS NEW LIGHT ON THE RUMBLING GIANTS AMONG US

(BEND, Ore.) — For millions of years, volcanoes have been the most powerful force in nature. And for many in the West, the impact of volcanoes is forever tied to the May 18, 1980, eruption of Washington’s Mount Saint Helens. The science, spectacle, and significance behind these massive peaks will soon be at the center of an immersive new exhibition, “Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration,” which will run from Feb. 7, 2026, through Jan. 3, 2027, at the 2021 National Medal for Museum and Library Service recipient High Desert Museum in Bend, Ore.

On the heels of the Museum’s recent “Sensing Sasquatch” exhibition – which won the Western History Association’s prestigious 2025 Autry Public History Prize and earned national praise for exploring the Indigenous perspectives of what many call Bigfoot – comes the latest groundbreaking exhibition from the High Desert Museum. Under Pressure will take visitors on an educational, insightful, and thought-provoking journey into the forces that make volcanoes among the most majestic and often misunderstood natural wonders of the world, while exploring their individual stories and temperaments.

“From cultural and historical significance to the 1980 eruption of Mount Saint Helens, the Pacific Northwest and High Desert have a particularly long, complex, and symbiotic relationship with volcanoes,” says Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D., High Desert Museum executive director. “We live in their shadows, recreate on their slopes, and admire their beauty, but it’s the volcanoes’ ability to simultaneously cause destruction and creation that evokes feelings of awe. Under Pressure will provide an immersive and deep exploration.”

Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration, a groundbreaking new exhibition from Oregon’s High Desert Museum.

WHEN:            Feb. 7, 2026, through Jan. 3, 2027

WHERE:          High Desert Museum (Spirit of the West Gallery)

                         59800 US-97, Bend, OR 97702 (map HERE)

COST:              Free with Museum admission or membership

   Active U.S. military and their families, as well as Tribal members, are FREE with ID

Among the highlights that visitors to Under Pressure can expect to encounter include:

• Engage the senses through interactive displays and exhibits, including volcanic rocks and a volcanic hazard map, to learn about cutting-edge volcano research.
• Hear stories and learn the significance of volcanoes to the people of the High Desert region.
• Get to know 4-6 individual volcanoes through biographies that explain the similarities and differences between them.
• Learn about present-day volcano hazards and how lava flows.
• Understand the technologies that scientists use to detect volcanic activity, which allow us to live among volcanoes while also enjoying their many benefits.

“These geologic giants exist all around us, come in all shapes and sizes, and tell a story of our past, present, and future,” says Whitelaw. “With 350 million people living near an active volcano worldwide, the more we understand about volcanoes, the better we can exist alongside them.”

Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration opens to the public on Feb. 7, 2026, and runs through Jan. 3, 2027, in the High Desert Museum’s Spirit of the West Gallery. For additional information on exhibitions or to start planning your experience, visit highdesertmuseum.org.

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

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

Find the mental health support you need

           Click to see all resources https://oregonhealthnews.oregon.gov/find-the-mental-health-support-you-need/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery