Oregon Beach News, Monday 12/29 – Oregon Seeks to Block Potential Newport ICE Facility, Oregon Central Coast to Receive $2.2 Million to Restore Tidal Wetlands & 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, December 29, 2025

Oregon Beach Weather

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

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.

“Defendants have engaged in these efforts behind closed doors, with no transparency or public process, ignoring direct requests for information from local officials and members of Congress,” the new filing reads. “As a result, the state has been forced to piece together defendants’ plans for the ICE detention facility based on public reporting, inquiries to and information from federal contractors, the second-hand account of a U.S. Coast Guard witness, and related evidence.” 

Much of the evidence in Attorney General Dan Rayfield’s updated lawsuit has been previously reported. Jenny Hansson, a spokesperson for the Oregon Department of Justice, referred to the amended complaint in response to a request for additional information or evidence. 

“We will not allow federal agencies to sidestep the law or build detention facilities where they don’t belong, including along our coast,” Rayfield said in a statement. “The federal government has to follow the same laws everyone else does when operating in our communities.”

Representatives for the homeland security department and ICE did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the lawsuit. An unnamed DHS spokesperson responded two days after this article published and called the lawsuit another example of “demonizing rhetoric” from sanctuary state politicians.

“The Department of Homeland Security reserves the right to use its own property to support its own operations in the mission given to it by the American people to uphold the laws they passed through Congress,” the spokesperson said. “No lawsuit is going to stop us from fulfilling that mission.”

On Monday, Newport’s lawyers filed a similar lawsuit in federal court asking a judge to require compliance with federal environmental regulations mandating impact assessments before any construction of an ICE detention facility in the city.  The U.S. Coast Guard’s deed from 1992 for its Newport Municipal Airport facility specifically mentions its purpose as an aviation site, a purpose the suit says should be honored.

State attorneys, a local Newport-based fishing nonprofit and Lincoln County officials had sued for the rescue helicopter’s return from a base in North Bend in November ahead of a dangerous crabbing season in the coastal city, home to one of Oregon’s largest commercial fishing industries. The U.S. Coast Guard went on to station a rescue helicopter in Newport following a temporary court order for its return, and federal lawyers have since committed to leaving the helicopter in place until spring 2026. 

Aiken on Monday, however, issued a broader preliminary injunction that ordered the chopper to remain at Newport’s Municipal Airport as the lawsuit over its relocation continues to play out. While Oregon’s two U.S. senators previously received written Dec. 12 promises from U.S. Coast Guard Admiral Kevin E. Lunday that the helicopter will stay at the city’s municipal airport, Lunday did not rule out more long-term changes to the Coast Guard’s Newport facility.

Oregon is one of a few states in the nation that does not have a large-scale, long-term immigration detention facility. People held by ICE in the state are allowed to be detained in processing facilities in cities such as Portland for up to 12 hours, often transferring to a center in Tacoma, Washington, for longer detentions. 

According to the state’s updated lawsuit, though, ICE informed potential facility contractors that it would hold most detainees in Newport for less than 72 hours to avoid triggering federal rules regarding heightened space, services and standards of care. The suit alleges the federal agency then “acknowledged stays may exceed the 72-hour threshold, even though doing so would violate its own standards.”

In a Monday newsletter to his constituents, state Rep. David Gomberg, D-Otis, who represents Newport, praised the state’s move.

“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)

Oregon Central Coast to Receive $2.2 Million to Restore Tidal Wetlands

A nonprofit dedicated to restoration projects along Oregon’s Central Coast will receive $2.2 million to restore tidal habitats threatened by erosion, flooding and drought.

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation is awarding the funds to the MidCoast Watersheds Council to restore 125 acres of tidal wetlands and 6 miles of stream channels across Siletz and Yaquina estuaries in Lincoln County. U.S. Sens. Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, both Oregon Democrats, announced the award last week. 

“The degradation of tidal wetlands has not only negatively affected our beloved and economically important fish and wildlife species, including our resident Chinook, coho and chum salmon, but it has made coastal residents more vulnerable to storms, sea level rise and coastal flooding,” said Evan Hayduk, the council’s executive director. 

The project will improve habitats for salmonids, reduce flood risk for coastal residents and enhance sediment retention through floodplain reconnection, fish passage improvements, native plant and tidal channel restoration, large wood placement and native Olympia oyster reef reestablishment.

Wyden said he will continue to support programs that protect communities from the worsening effects of climate change.

“The health of Oregon’s estuaries is vital to our state’s ecosystems and communities,” said Merkley, the top Democrat on the subcommittee overseeing the funding for the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. “This critical federal funding along with strong matching support will leverage MidCoast Watersheds Council’s work in restoring tidal wetlands and reducing risk to the community at the same time.”

In addition to the $2.2 million funds, the project secured $1.8 million in matching funds, bringing the total project funds to $4 million.  (SOURCE)

Tillamook Air Museum Damaged By Wind

Officials are assessing the impact and will determine if the building is safe to use.

Last week high winds tore a hole in the roof of Hangar B at the Tillamook Air Museum in Oregon. On Monday officials from the Port of Tillamook held a meeting to discuss what to do next.

The museum was closed last week “out of an abundance of caution” and will remain closed until further notice. The damage is on the crown of the building, which stands 192 feet high. The wooden hangar measures 1,072 feet long and 296 wide.

Port officials said that getting up on the roof to assess the damage will be difficult, in part because it is so high up and also because the Pacific Northwest is still being battered by heavy wind and rain. Like full-sized aircraft, drones, which are often used by roofing companies for aerial inspection, have an operational wind limit.

In an email, port officials stated the closure “includes rented internal spaces, storage, and Port-used areas.”

According to Michele Bradley, spokesperson for the Port of Tillamook Bay, the part of the hangar beneath the hole in the roof is used for large vehicle storage. There are RVs, boats, and cars in the area.

“There was no damage to the storage items that were in the area since the roof went outward,” Bradley told FLYING in an email. “All of those items have been moved to the north end of the hangar into the museum area. Planes that were under the tent have also been relocated.”

The not-for-profit Friends of Tillamook Air Museum have a Go Fund Me campaign to raise funds for repairs, the extent of which has not been determined because it has been too windy and rainy to safely access the roof.

“A contractor presented a quote to the board today for assessment and removal of the attached, hanging flap outside—it was around $5,000,000. Once they are up there, they can assess a temp fix.”

The timing of the damage is discouraging, as the Tillamook Air Museum has made tremendous progress in recent years, Bradley said, “expanding exhibits, improving interpretation, and strengthening its role as a cultural and educational resource for the region.” (SOURCE)

Winter Whale Watch Week returns to the Oregon Coast Dec. 27-31

Oregon State Parks will host Winter Whale Watch Week along the Oregon Coast Saturday, Dec. 27 through Wednesday, Dec. 31. 

Trained Oregon State Park volunteers will be stationed at 14 sites along the Oregon Coast from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to help visitors spot gray whales on their southward migration to the calving lagoons in Mexico. 

The sites are some of the best places to watch for whales on the Oregon Coast. A map of volunteer-staffed sites is available online at the official event webpage: https://oregonstateparks.org/index.cfm?do=thingstodo.dsp_whaleWatching 

This is a great time to see one of the world’s longest migrations, as the gray whales are traveling by our coastline,” said Park Ranger Peter McBride. 

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced an end to an Unusual Mortality Event impacting gray whales in 2023 when it looked like the population was rebounding. But since then, the population has declined to its lowest level since the 1970s. NOAA now estimates about 13,000 gray whales along the West Coast. 

Winter Whale Watch Week provides an opportunity to see not only the gray whales but other coastal wildlife including birds and other marine mammals with help from trained volunteers and park rangers. 

The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay will be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 27-31. Visitors to the center can enjoy interactive whale exhibits and take in the panoramic ocean views. Binoculars are provided. Park rangers from Oregon State Parks will also be on hand to answer questions about the whales.
 

All Whale Watch Week visitors are encouraged to dress for the weather, to bring binoculars and to follow beach safety guidelines such as remaining out of fenced areas, knowing the tide schedule and always keeping an eye on the surf. Go to https://visittheoregoncoast.com/beach-safety/ for a list of safety tips. 

For more information about coast parks and campgrounds, visit https://stateparks.oregon.gov/ 

Visitors are encouraged to share their photos and videos from Winter Whale Watch on social media using #ORWhaleWatch.

Guided First Day Hikes set for New Year’s Day in 25 Oregon State Parks

Whether you prefer a moderate hike through a desert landscape or a paved wooded trail inside city limits, Oregon State Parks has a First Day Hike for you on New Year’s Day, Thursday Jan. 1.

Rangers and volunteers will lead guided First Day Hikes at 25 parks around the state with distances ranging from a quarter-mile stroll to a 5-mile trek. Hikes are free, but a day-use parking permit is required at some parks. Permits cost $10 per day for Oregon Residents or $12 for non-residents; annual permits are also sold online or at park offices.

America’s State Parks sponsors the First Day Hikes program nationwide to encourage everyone to start the year outside and connect with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) has participated since 2012.

“Across Oregon, First Day Hikes have grown into a beloved New Year’s tradition for visitors and staff alike. On January 1^st, park rangers and volunteers share stories of park history, geology, wildlife, and plants, as families and friends kick off the year together with an engaging outdoor adventure,” said Lisa Sumption, director of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

Visit the Oregon First Day Hikes web page to see the list of parks hosting hikes. Additional hike information such as hike times, meet-up locations and trail terrain are available via the park links on the web page. A few hikes require registration including Deschutes River, Elijah Bristow, Emigrant Springs, LaPine, Lukiamute, Oswald West, Sitka Sedge, and Smith Rock.

For any questions about accessibility or to request reasonable accommodations needed to participate in a hike, please see the contact information on each hike’s webpage.

Remember to plan for winter weather, dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, bring water and carry binoculars for viewing wildlife.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via X and Instagram by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes or tagging “Oregon State Parks” on Facebook.

2026 16th Annual New Year’s Day Peace Hike

View the Future Announces the 16th Annual New Year’s Day Peace Hike: A Community Commemoration of Resilience and Remembrance –Yachats, Oregon

View the Future is proud to announce the 2026 16th Annual Peace Hike, an honored community tradition that brings residents, visitors, Tribal members, and partners together in reflection, unity, and hope for the year ahead.

Held each January, the Peace Hike commemorates the cultural history and enduring resilience of the Tribal peoples who once lived in the lands we now call home. This year’s event continues that legacy, honoring stories of remembrance while celebrating the strength of community stewardship.Participants are invited to join the hike, learn from cultural speakers, and stand together in honor of the past, present, and future. Community members, families, and visitors are all welcome.

Event Details

• Event: 16th Annual New Year’s Day Peace Hike
• Date:  January 1, 2026 – 8:30am-1pm
• Location:  Yachats, Oregon

For additional information including the schedule of events and ways to get involved, please visit: https://www.viewthefuture.org/2026-16th-annual-peace-hike

About View the Future — View the Future is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting natural lands, restoring ecosystems, and ensuring long-term community resilience. Through conservation work, public education, and meaningful partnerships, View the Future strives to safeguard the places we love for generations to come.

A Reminder to Use Caution Navigating Winter Weather.

There is still some debris, downed powerlines, and flooding from last week’s storm affecting parts of our roads. And there are storms forecast in the coming week. Remember to use caution.

Allow for extra driving time.

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

Do not drive around barricades or onto closed roads.

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

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

Reported downed powerlines to your power provider.

2026 16th Annual New Year’s Day Peace Hike

View the Future Announces the 16th Annual New Year’s Day Peace Hike: A Community Commemoration of Resilience and Remembrance –Yachats, Oregon

View the Future is proud to announce the 2026 16th Annual Peace Hike, an honored community tradition that brings residents, visitors, Tribal members, and partners together in reflection, unity, and hope for the year ahead.

Held each January, the Peace Hike commemorates the cultural history and enduring resilience of the Tribal peoples who once lived in the lands we now call home. This year’s event continues that legacy, honoring stories of remembrance while celebrating the strength of community stewardship.Participants are invited to join the hike, learn from cultural speakers, and stand together in honor of the past, present, and future. Community members, families, and visitors are all welcome.

Event Details

• Event: 16th Annual New Year’s Day Peace Hike
• Date:  January 1, 2026 – 8:30am-1pm
• Location:  Yachats, Oregon

For additional information including the schedule of events and ways to get involved, please visit: https://www.viewthefuture.org/2026-16th-annual-peace-hike

About View the Future — View the Future is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting natural lands, restoring ecosystems, and ensuring long-term community resilience. Through conservation work, public education, and meaningful partnerships, View the Future strives to safeguard the places we love for generations to come.

Guided First Day Hikes set for New Year’s Day in 25 Oregon State Parks

Whether you prefer a moderate hike through a desert landscape or a paved wooded trail inside city limits, Oregon State Parks has a First Day Hike for you on New Year’s Day, Thursday Jan. 1.

Rangers and volunteers will lead guided First Day Hikes at 25 parks around the state with distances ranging from a quarter-mile stroll to a 5-mile trek. Hikes are free, but a day-use parking permit is required at some parks. Permits cost $10 per day for Oregon Residents or $12 for non-residents; annual permits are also sold online or at park offices.

America’s State Parks sponsors the First Day Hikes program nationwide to encourage everyone to start the year outside and connect with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) has participated since 2012.

“Across Oregon, First Day Hikes have grown into a beloved New Year’s tradition for visitors and staff alike. On January 1^st, park rangers and volunteers share stories of park history, geology, wildlife, and plants, as families and friends kick off the year together with an engaging outdoor adventure,” said Lisa Sumption, director of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

Visit the Oregon First Day Hikes web page to see the list of parks hosting hikes. Additional hike information such as hike times, meet-up locations and trail terrain are available via the park links on the web page. A few hikes require registration including Deschutes River, Elijah Bristow, Emigrant Springs, LaPine, Lukiamute, Oswald West, Sitka Sedge, and Smith Rock.

For any questions about accessibility or to request reasonable accommodations needed to participate in a hike, please see the contact information on each hike’s webpage.

Remember to plan for winter weather, dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, bring water and carry binoculars for viewing wildlife.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via X and Instagram by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes or tagging “Oregon State Parks” on Facebook.

Free First Day Hike at Heceta Head Lighthouse Jan. 1, 2026

FLORENCE, Ore. – Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is hosting free self-guided First Day Hike at Heceta Head Lighthouse on New Year’s Day, Thursday, Jan. 1. 

It’s part of the annual First Day Hikes event at 25 Oregon State Parks held in partnership with America’s State Parks on New Year’s Day.

Visitors are welcome to explore the first floor of the Heceta Head Lighthouse and learn about the lives of lighthouse keepers and their families from over 130 years ago. Hikers can also enjoy miles of trails leading to several scenic overlooks.

Hike hosted at Heceta Head Lighthouse:

• Enjoy a scenic half-mile self-guided hike from the parking lot to Oregon’s most photographed lighthouse. Volunteers will be on-site to provide historical information and answer any questions. Visitors can also observe several native animal species and explore coastal plant life atop the stunning Heceta Head.
• Guests can access the first floor of the lighthouse from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to learn about the life of lighthouse keepers and their families.
• There are numerous photo opportunities where the forest meets the sea. Hikers can also explore miles of additional trails from the lighthouse to several scenic overlooks.
• Participants should dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water and snacks, as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.
• For more information, call 541-547-3416.

If you have questions about access or need any reasonable accommodations for your participation, please contact the park office at 541- 547-3416. Requests must be submitted at least three days before January 1.

All activities are free, but a day-use parking permit is required. Permits cost $10 per day for Oregon Residents or $12 for non-residents; annual permits are also sold at the park.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via social media by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes.

First Day Hikes is a national initiative to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, promote exercise and encourage connecting with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has participated since 2012.

Make plans to attend the Holiday Lights at Shore Acres State Park in December!

Don’t have a reservation?!! Don’t worry! Take the FREE Holiday Lights Santa Shuttle from the Charleston Marina (Guano Rock Lane & Crossline Road) to Shore Acres State Park! The shuttle runs every 20 minutes, 4:15pm to 8:10pm on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, plus Christmas Eve, Christmas Day & New Year’s Eve!

Astoria Hospital Races To Build a Tsunami Shelter as FEMA Fights to Cut Funding

Residents of this small coastal city of Astoria in the Pacific Northwest know what to do when there’s a tsunami warning: Flee to higher ground.

For those in or near Columbia Memorial, the city’s only hospital, there will soon be a different plan: Shelter in place. The hospital is building a new facility next door with an on-site tsunami shelter — an elevated refuge atop columns deeply anchored in the ground, where nearly 2,000 people can safely wait out a flood.

Oregon needs more shelters like the one that Columbia Memorial is building, emergency managers say. Hospitals in the region are likely to incur serious damage, if not ruin, and could take more than three years to fully recover in the event of a major earthquake and tsunami, according to a state report.

Columbia Memorial’s current facility is a single-story building, made of wood a half-century ago, that would likely collapse and sink into the ground or be swallowed by a landslide after a major earthquake or a tsunami, said Erik Thorsen, the hospital’s chief executive.

“It is just not built to survive either one of those natural disaster events,” Thorsen said.

At least 10 other hospitals along the Oregon coast are in danger as well. So Columbia Memorial leaders proposed building a hospital capable of withstanding an earthquake and landslide, with a tsunami shelter, instead of relocating the facility to higher ground. Residents and state officials supported the plans, and the federal government awarded a $14 million grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to help pay for the tsunami shelter.Columbia Memorial Hospital is a single-story, wood-frame building that would likely sustain significant damage in an earthquake or tsunami. The hospital was awarded a $14 million FEMA grant to help pay for an elevated tsunami shelter, but the Trump administration canceled the grant program in April. Hannah Norman/KFF Health News

The project broke ground in October 2024. Within six months, the Trump administration had canceled the grant program, known as Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities, or BRIC, calling it “yet another example of a wasteful and ineffective FEMA program … more concerned with political agendas than helping Americans affected by natural disasters.”

Molly Wing, director of the expansion project, said losing the BRIC grant felt like “a punch to the gut.”

“We really didn’t see that coming,” she said.

This summer, Oregon and 19 other states sued to restore the FEMA grants. On Dec. 11, a judge ruled that the Trump administration had unlawfully ended the program without congressional approval.

The administration did not immediately indicate it would appeal the decision, but Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin said by email: “DHS has not terminated BRIC. Any suggestion to the contrary is a lie. The Biden Administration abandoned true mitigation and used BRIC as a green new deal slush fund. It’s unfortunate that an activist judge either didn’t understand that or didn’t care.” FEMA is a subdivision of DHS.

Columbia Memorial was one of the few hospitals slated to receive grants from the BRIC program, which had announced more than $4.5 billion for nearly 2,000 building projects since 2022.

Hospital leaders have decided to keep building — with uncertain funding — because they say waiting is too dangerous. With the Trump administration reversing course on BRIC, fewer communities will receive help from FEMA to reduce their disaster risk, even places where catastrophes are likely.

More than three centuries have passed since a major earthquake caused the Pacific Northwest’s coastline to drop several feet and unleashed a tsunami that crashed onto the land in January 1700, according to scientists who study the evolution of the Oregon coast.

The greatest danger is an underwater fault line known as the Cascadia Subduction Zone, which lies 70 to 100 miles off the coast, from Northern California to British Columbia.Astoria, Oregon, is a city of 10,000 residents on a peninsula near the end of the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail. It’s located on the southern shore of the Columbia River, near the Washington border. Picturesque forests and the river frame streets lined with gift shops, hotels, and seafood restaurants — almost entirely in an evacuation zone. Hannah Norman/KFF Health News

The Cascadia zone can produce a megathrust earthquake, with a magnitude of 9 or higher — the type capable of triggering a catastrophic tsunami — every 500 years, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Scientists predict a 10% to 15% chance of such an earthquake along the fault zone in the next 50 years.

“We can’t wait any longer,” Thorsen said. “The risk is high.” “It’s not like … ‘Oh, that’ll never happen,'” he said. “We have to be prepared for it.” (READ MORE)

A Siuslaw High School junior is being recognized for an app designed to help senior citizens connect with local students for everyday assistance.

Rylan Pierce has won Oregon’s Fourth District Congressional App Challenge for developing a prototype that matches seniors who need help with tasks like grocery shopping, yard work, or picking up prescriptions with high school students available to help.

Pierce designed the app with simplicity in mind, gathering feedback from older adults to refine its layout and features. He built the project using skills learned in Siuslaw High School’s information technology program. As the district winner, Pierce will travel to Washington, D.C., in the spring of 2026 to be recognized and meet with Congresswoman Val Hoyle.

Winter Boater Safety Inspection Event Dec. 27th in Astoria

If you have a trailerable recreational boat registered in Oregon, consider bringing your boat down to the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office Marine Patrol Winter Boater Safety Inspection Station event later this month. It’s happening Saturday, December 27 from 10 to 2, right across from Englund Marine at the Port of Astoria, and get your 2026 Oregon Boater Safety Inspection sticker.

You’ll need an up to date registration and some safety gear to qualify. It’s not only the law, it’s good safety stewardship for your vessel, the people you take on board, and any rescue personnel who might have to assist you in an emergency.

Per the sheriff’s office – To get your sticker, please bring the following six items:1. Current proof of registration for your boat 2. Current registration year sticker posted next to your OR numbers 3. Boater safety education course card or equivalent 4. Non-expired, good-condition fire extinguisher 5. Proper life jackets 6. A throwable cushion or ring

Depending on your vessel, you may also need a carburetor spark arrestor and a bilge fume blower.

If you have questions, give the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Marine Patrol office a call at 971-704-4465

Winter Whale Watch Week Returns to the Oregon Coast December 27-31

Oregon State Parks will host Winter Whale Watch Week along the Oregon Coast Saturday, Dec. 27 through Wednesday, Dec. 31. 

Trained Oregon State Park volunteers will be stationed at 14 sites along the Oregon Coast from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to help visitors spot gray whales on their southward migration to the calving lagoons in Mexico. 

The sites are some of the best places to watch for whales on the Oregon Coast. A map of volunteer-staffed sites is available online at the official event webpage: https://oregonstateparks.org/index.cfm?do=thingstodo.dsp_whaleWatching 

This is a great time to see one of the world’s longest migrations, as the gray whales are traveling by our coastline,” said Park Ranger Peter McBride. 

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced an end to an Unusual Mortality Event impacting gray whales in 2023 when it looked like the population was rebounding. But since then, the population has declined to its lowest level since the 1970s. NOAA now estimates about 13,000 gray whales along the West Coast. 

Winter Whale Watch Week provides an opportunity to see not only the gray whales but other coastal wildlife including birds and other marine mammals with help from trained volunteers and park rangers. 

The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay will be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 27-31. Visitors to the center can enjoy interactive whale exhibits and take in the panoramic ocean views. Binoculars are provided. Park rangers from Oregon State Parks will also be on hand to answer questions about the whales.
 

All Whale Watch Week visitors are encouraged to dress for the weather, to bring binoculars and to follow beach safety guidelines such as remaining out of fenced areas, knowing the tide schedule and always keeping an eye on the surf. Go to https://visittheoregoncoast.com/beach-safety/ for a list of safety tips. 

For more information about coast parks and campgrounds, visit https://stateparks.oregon.gov/ 

Visitors are encouraged to share their photos and videos from Winter Whale Watch on social media using #ORWhaleWatch.

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!

The Oregon State Marine Board is sending out motorboat registration renewal notices for registrations expiring December 31, 2025.

Boaters with an email on file will receive digital notices with instructions to renew through the Boat Oregon Store — the fastest option, offering a printable temporary permit for immediate use. Those without email will receive notices by U.S. Mail by mid-November. Decals typically arrive within a few days for online renewals and longer by mail. The Marine Board recommends renewing this fall or early winter to avoid delays next summer. Motorized boats and sailboats 12 feet or longer must be titled and registered. The Boat Oregon Store also offers waterway access permits for kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and other non-motorized craft.

Officials along Oregon’s North Coast wrestle with how to respond to ICE operations

After six people were detained by federal immigration officers in Seaside on Oregon’s North Coast in early November, some city officials jumped to respond, looking to craft resolutions decrying what they saw as secretive and aggressive tactics.

Others held back.

A number of resolutions and statements ended up being released, finalized or passed just ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday, several weeks after the events in Seaside.

After a Seaside City Council meeting on Nov. 24, the city posted a statement on Facebook acknowledging the ICE operation from Nov. 8.

Given the disruption to local families, schools and some businesses, it was a statement some city councilors said they now felt should have gone out much sooner.

Especially because, said City Councilors Heidi Hoffman and Tita Montero, there was every indication ICE may come back again “without warning and without courtesy.”

Several days later, on Dec.1, ICE officers detained two people roughly 11 miles away at the Walmart in Warrenton. As with the operation in Seaside, local law enforcement and dispatch centers were not warned ahead of time.

The recent ICE operations have rattled officials, law enforcement and immigrant communities across Clatsop County.

For officials, there is some anxiety about how exactly to respond.

The issue is charged and some officials say they have concerns about how ICE officers are going about their jobs: wearing masks, using unmarked cars and, in some cases, having no clothing or badges that identify them as federal agents. Local police chiefs and Clatsop County Sheriff Matt Phillips worry about confusion and the potential for dangerous encounters between local and federal officers in the field.

“The problem that I have is the tactics and how things are being done,” said Warrenton Police Chief Mathew Workman. “And I get it. People have problems with our tactics too.”

But he said the federal detainments no longer seem tied to concerns about criminal behavior.

Laws around immigration are complex, but simply being in the United States without documentation is not immediately a crime under federal law. Depending on the circumstances, it may more often be a civil matter. The Trump administration has said it wants to “apprehend and remove the scores of dangerous criminal illegal immigrants.”

Workman said he empathizes with families who are afraid to leave their homes after the recent detainments because, to him, there is a real concern right now about a legitimate detainment versus a mistake.

“It’s the mistakes that scare me,” Workman said.

In Astoria, the police department recently posted a detailed public service notice about what people should do if a traffic stop doesn’t feel right and there are concerns about whether the officer contacting them is legitimate, or if they are witnessing a suspicious stop. The post also provided information about filing complaints about potential civil rights violations.

In Seaside, Police Chief Dave Ham told city councilors he didn’t feel the need to put out similar information, though he, like other local police chiefs, wished ICE would alert them in advance that they are coming to the area.

Oregon is a sanctuary state. State law dictates that local resources can’t be used for immigration enforcement. State and local governments and their agencies cannot participate in any way in immigration enforcement without a judicial warrant. At the same time, local police can’t interfere with federal immigration enforcement.

In Warrenton, after the detainments on Dec.1, Workman said he still has little information about the operation. There was an early rumor that ICE officers had smashed people’s car windows and dragged them out. This proved to be false.

Workman first heard about what was happening that day from Astoria Police Chief Stacy Kelly.

“Once we started hearing about it, we went out there, but everything’s done and gone,” he said.

Other federal agencies conduct investigations and operations in and around Warrenton.THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR:Become a Sponsor

“We used to get calls all the time, not just from (ICE), from all federal agencies: ‘Hey, we’re conducting surveillance, this is the vehicle we’re in,’” Workman said. “And we still get that from the other federal agencies.”

Later that night on Dec.1, the Astoria City Council read a resolution directed at the events in Seaside on Nov.8 and condemning the more aggressive and secretive tactics ICE has employed when carrying out immigration enforcement under the Trump administration. The resolution was modeled off of one the city of Cannon Beach, south of Seaside, passed ahead of Thanksgiving.

The Astoria City Council had previously published a statement of support, saying, “Please know that when one part of our community is under duress, we are all under duress. An erosion of civil rights for some is an erosion of civil rights for all. We stand with our Latinx community.”

In Seaside, city councilors were split on what kind of message they wanted to craft. Some felt most comfortable with only pointing people towards information about state law and explaining what local police can and can’t do when federal immigration agents are in town.

Others, like Montero, Hoffman and City Councilor Seamus McVey wanted to include an additional statement, something more forceful and possibly — in their colleagues’ view — more opinionated.

The decision to say anything at all followed a meeting days after the arrests. City councilors heard from several community members then who were upset and outraged by what had occurred.

One woman said she came to Seaside, undocumented, as a child and has been working and paying state and federal taxes here since she was a teenager.

“Sadly, our government has not found a suitable way for me to have a pathway to citizenship,” she said. “I hope you can imagine the fear that runs through this community when we hear ICE agents are here in town, snatching away good, honest and hard-working family and friends.”

She asked: Does the city have plans to protect the community, specifically the Hispanic community in Seaside?

“The City of Seaside recognizes events like this can create uncertainty for many in our community,” the city’s Facebook post ultimately stated. It directed people to a resource page on the city’s website.

“Our goal is to ensure that every resident has access to accurate, reliable information about how immigration enforcement works in Oregon,” the post concluded, “and what to expect from your local police.”

Resolutions like those passed by Cannon Beach and now Astoria are important public statements, even essential, said Jenny Pool Radway, executive director of Consejo Hispano, an Astoria-based nonprofit that works with Latine communities across Clatsop County.

She called the detentions “unlawful abductions.”

Statements by officials “help counter the fear and uncertainty created by ICE activity and affirm that our families belong here,” she said in a statement to KMUN. “But this isn’t just about Latine residents. We may be the first target, but community members know it won’t stop with us.”

“When city leaders speak up, they are protecting the values of dignity and fairness for the entire community,” she said.

In Astoria, City Councilor Andrea Mazzarella, backed by others on that City Council, is pushing for more tangible action beyond the resolution passed Dec. 1. In light of ongoing concerns about a possible ICE detention center in Newport on Oregon’s Central Coast, she has asked that they consider possible land restrictions to prevent a similar situation on the North Coast.

After the ICE detainments on Nov. 8, a local chapter of the progressive organization Indivisible held a community meeting in Astoria.

The goal was to educate people on their rights and to train them how to safely and effectively be bystanders and witnesses during Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations. Usually, 30 to 50 people attend these meetings. Organizers thought that might tip into 100 because of recent events.

“But it was way more than we expected,” said Julia Hesse, coordinator for Indivisible North Coast Oregon.

The room at Grace Episcopal Church was packed tight. Organizers counted between 140 to 170 people.

“A lot of people are scared,” Hesse said. “They want to know what they can do. They want to help the Latinx community that’s affected by this.”

She expects future training events will also be well attended now that ICE operations have become a reality in Clatsop County. (SOURCE)

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) celebrates the completion of three GO Bond projects this year: Beverly Beach and Nehalem Bay upgraded vital infrastructure, and Fort Stevens restored the exterior of the historic Guard House.  

The work is part of the one-time general obligation bonds (GO Bonds) approved by the legislature in 2021 for Oregon State Parks.  

The goal of the $50 million GO Bond projects was to help update aging infrastructure and add capacity at several state parks.  

Silver Falls also completed a portion of its GO Bond project last year with the North Canyon trailhead and parking lot, which eased parking congestion and added a new accessible trail. 

Fort Stevens will complete its campground utility upgrades as part of GO Bonds in May 2026. Two more projects, safety upgrades at Cape Lookout and visitor center updates at Silver Falls, will break ground in 2026.  

The remaining GO Bond projects at Kam Wah Chung, Smith Rock, Champoeg and the campground expansion at Silver Falls will be placed on hold until additional funding is available. OPRD will allocate the approximately $15 million in remaining GO Bonds to higher priority backlog maintenance projects including existing utility systems, infrastructure and facilities. 

“When projects were initially identified 2021, we could not have anticipated the substantial increases in costs of materials, staffing and consultants or the significant reduction in revenue,” said Deputy Director for Field and Community Services Matt Rippee. 

“None of these were easy decisions, but at this time it is vital we focus on projects that will extend the life of existing facilities rather than expanding. Without this change, we would not be able to complete maintenance needs essential to protect and preserve our state parks.” 

OPRD is projecting a $14 million operations budget shortfall this biennium due to a projected decrease in Lottery revenue, increasing costs and a long-standing need for more sustainable funding. Staff are reviewing all OPRD’s costs to help build a more sustainable funding future.  

The Florence Area Chamber of Commerce is seeking input from local businesses on how recent demonstrations may have affected day-to-day operations.

Chamber officials say the goal is to accurately represent the community’s experience and provide informed feedback to local leaders and decision-makers.

Businesses are encouraged to complete a short, confidential survey, whether or not they’re Chamber members. Responses will help guide efforts to maintain a safe and thriving business environment in Florence. A link to the survey is available through the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce.

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/

Florence Farmers Market Seeking Board Members

The Florence Farmers Market is looking for new members to serve on its Board of Directors and committees. Organizers say it’s just two to four hours a month, with board members meeting monthly and helping with areas like vendors, outreach, finances, or volunteers. No experience is required, only a passion for local food and community. The nonprofit market operates weekly on the Port of Siuslaw Boardwalk, providing fresh food and local products to Florence and surrounding areas. More information is available at florencefarmersmarket.org

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. 

Taking a Closer Look at What Happened to Fauna Frey Who Vanished Without A Trace In Josephine County

Fauna was grieving the recent death of her brother, Dallas, when she set off from Eugene in June of 2020 heading to Grants Pass on what her family believes was both a healing trip and a mission to deliver gifts, silver coins inherited from Dallas, to a few friends.

But somewhere between motel check-ins and checkouts, something went terribly wrong. Her Jeep was found months later. She was never seen again. http://bit.ly/4l63Dle

We will start resharing podcasts and articles. For starters here is a story from Danielle Denham that appeared in the June 29, 2025 edition of That Oregon Life. Ms Denham worked closely with us to insure that the facts she presented were accurate.

Check out the nine episodes of the podcast Nowhere to be Found, a comprehensive, in-depth, sensitive treatment of the details surrounding Fauna’s disappearance. Hear from Fauna’s father, John, and her friends. Posted in spring of 2022, Amanda Popineau shares Fauna’s journey and the mystery that surrounds it. Go to Nowhere to be Found Season Two: Episode One “Under A Half-Moon.” https://podcasts.apple.com/kg/podcast/s2e1-under-a-halfmoon/id1532686678?i=1000512098162

We want to remind people that Fauna’s father is offering a huge reward for information that brings Fauna home.

Please if you have any information no matter how big or small let us know by calling the anonymous tip line or emailing. 

Tipline- 541-359-5638

Email – Helpfindfaunafrey@gmail.com

FOLLOW on FACEBOOK GROUP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/341658526970132

Fauna Frey Vanished Without A Trace In  Josephine County

 It’s been more than five years since the disappearance of a Lane County Woman, who was last seen in Grants Pass. Back in June of 2020, Fauna Frey disappeared. Police said the 45-year-old left her home in Dexter to drive to Grants Pass to visit her brother’s friend after her brother had recently passed away. The last place she was seen was at the Big 5 in Grants Pass. Investigators said her car was found in the Galice area months later. The circumstances of Fauna’s disappearance remain unclear and her case is currently classified as missing. Her case remains unsolved. Fauna’s disappearance has been featured on multiple investigative podcasts, including Nowhere to be Found, Here One Minute, Gone the Next, and Detective Perspective, each trying to fill the silence left by law enforcement. New listeners continue to discover her story, hoping a fresh set of eyes or a single loose memory might be the key to finding Fauna.

Have Information on Fauna Frey? Please Speak Up!

If you know anything, no matter how small, please contact:

• Josephine County Sheriff’s Office
• Tip line: (541) 359-5638
• Email: FindFaunaFrey@gmail.com

Currrently there is a $50,000 CASH REWARD for information leading to the location of Fauna Frey. LARGE CASH REWARDS are being offered for any other relevant information, such as any objects that could be identified as Fauna’s, i.e. her wallet, keys, or Indian/Buffalo .999 silver bullion coins. Find Fauna Frey Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/341658526970132  

Oregon’s new laws starting in January 2026 bring changes to workplace transparency (detailed pay stubs), housing (squatter eviction, mobile home rent), health care (menopause coverage, medical debt removal from credit reports), consumer protections (ticket bots, hidden fees), and stronger protections against deepfakes, alongside significant construction law reforms (HB 3746) to boost condo development and increased ODOT fines for uncertified movers. 

Senate Bill 605 prevents medical debt from appearing on credit reports. Starting January 1, medical service providers such as hospitals and clinics are banned from notifying consumer reporting agencies that money is owed for care and how much is owed.

House Bill 3064 requires health plans regulated by the state to cover treatments for perimenopause, menopause and post menopause. The plans include individual and family plans, small business plans and plans run by the Oregon Educators Benefit Board and the Public Employees’ Benefit Board. Starting January 1, plans must pay for services such as hormone therapy along with osteoporosis prevention and treatment.

House Bill 2299 expands Oregon’s laws surrounding non-consensual intimate image distribution. Starting Jan. 1, the definition of intimate images will include images created by artificial intelligence, or AI-generated deepfakes. The law creates first- and second-degree offenses and elevates the crime to a felony for repeated violations. The law will also extend protections to all victims of intimate-image abuse.

Senate Bill 548 raises the legal age for marriage in Oregon from 17 to 18 years old. Until this law, 17-year-olds could marry in Oregon if they had one parent or guardian’s permission, officials say, noting, the 17-year-old’s consent to marry was not required. According to a press release from Oregon’s Democratic majority offices, this allowed 2,900 adult men to obtain marriage licenses with teenage girls from the year 2000 to 2021. The majority offices say the bill aims to strengthen legal protections against sexual exploitation.

House Bill 3167, named the Fan Fairness and Transparency Act, bans the use of software bots to get around a ticket seller’s limits and bans the resale of tickets obtained through those bots. The bill also bans look-alike websites that aim to confuse consumers that are trying to buy tickets directly from a venue website.

Senate Bill 430 bans costs such as “convenience charges” or “service fees” from being added to online purchases without warning. Anyone selling goods or services online to Oregon consumers must include required fees and charges in the price they advertise. However, taxes or costs to ship a product do not have to be included in the price but sellers must disclose those costs to the purchaser.

Senate Bill 688 allows the public utility commission to require investor-owned power companies to meet certain targets in order to raise rates. Those targets can include lowering costs, decreasing greenhouse gas emissions and ensuring low-income Oregonians are not cut off from power.

House Bill 3865, dubbed the Telemarketing Modernization Act, expands the definition of “telephone solicitation” to include texting. The law bans solicitation after 7 p.m. and limits allowed solicitations to three times per day.

Oregon Jobs Projected to Increase 6% by 2034

The Oregon Employment Department projects Oregon’s total employment to grow by 141,000 jobs between 2024 and 2034. These employment projections reflect modest job growth in the economy, although many additional job openings are expected due to the need to replace workers who leave their occupations.

In 2024, there were 2.2 million jobs in Oregon. The projected 6% increase in employment between 2024 and 2034 includes private-sector gains of 125,500 jobs, growth of 7,700 jobs in government, and an additional 7,400 self-employed Oregonians.

Beyond gains associated with the anticipated economic growth, another 2.4 million job openings will be created by 2034 to replace workers who retire, leave the labor force for other reasons, or make a major occupational change. Together, the number of job openings due to job growth and replacements will total nearly 2.6 million.

All broad sectors in Oregon are expected to add jobs by 2034, except for federal government, which is projected to decline by 3% (-1,000 jobs). The private health care and social assistance sector is projected to increase the fastest, growing by 13%. Private health care and social assistance is also projected to add the largest number of jobs over the next 10 years (+40,400 jobs). This growth is attributed to the aging of the state’s population, longer life expectancies, and an expected rebound in the state’s long-term population growth.

The construction and professional and business services sectors are projected to grow at the second-fastest rate, gaining 10% each. Growth in construction can be attributed to construction of buildings (+11%) and specialty trade contractors (+11%), which includes establishments that perform specific construction-related activities such as site preparation, plumbing, painting, and electrical work.

Growth in professional and business services is expected to be primarily driven by professional and technical services (+15%), which includes architectural and engineering services (+23%), computer systems design and related services (+10%), and legal services (-3%).

Many of the fastest-growing occupations are associated with jobs in the health care industry. Nine of the top 15 fastest-growing occupations by 2034 are in health care. They include nurse practitioners, physician assistants, medical and health services managers, and psychiatric technicians. Computer and mathematical occupations comprise three of the top 15 fastest-growing occupations, as demand increases for workers who can model, interpret, and analyze data in addition to demand for the development of AI solutions and their integration into business practices. They include data scientists, information security analysts, and operations research analysts.

A broad variety of career opportunities will be available across all sectors, as well as all job types. Four out of 10 job openings will require education or training beyond high school, but applicants will require education beyond high school to be competitive in six out of 10 job openings.

Occupations with the most job openings that typically require a high school diploma or less include fast food workers, stockers and order fillers, retail salespersons, cashiers, and home health and personal care aides. Those requiring a postsecondary certification or associate’s degree include bookkeepers, truck drivers, nursing and medical assistants. Occupations with the most job openings requiring at least a bachelor’s degree vary from general and operations managers to registered nurses, other educational instruction and library workers, project management specialists, and all other business operations specialists.

All areas of Oregon are expected to see job opportunities in the coming years due to economic growth and the replacement of workers leaving the labor force. The two areas projected to grow faster than Oregon’s rate of 6% are the Portland tri-county area (7%) and Central Oregon (7%). Slower growth is expected in the Columbia Gorge, Northwest, South Central, Southwestern Oregon, and the Eastern Six Oregon counties with 5% growth each.

Additional Information – More information on 2024-2034 industry and occupational projections for Oregon and sub-state areas can be found at www.qualityinfo.org/projections. 

Opponents of Oregon’s newly established transportation funding package submitted nearly 200,000 signatures to the Secretary of State’s Office on Friday, an action that immediately halts the forthcoming tax and fee increases pending verification of the signatures.

The initiative, spearheaded by the “No Tax Oregon” campaign, seeks to place a repeal referendum on the ballot for November 2026 after watching Gov. Tina Kotek keep piling on new taxes to Oregonians. Petitioners require just over 78,000 valid signatures to qualify.

The organization claims it exceeded that requirement within days and has continued to gather signatures statewide. The transportation package, which was approved by lawmakers earlier this year, encompasses a six-cent increase in the gas tax, elevated DMV fees even more, and a doubling of the state’s transit payroll tax.

Proponents assert that the revenue is essential for maintaining roads and sustaining transit services. Opponents argue that the additional costs—estimated to be around $600 annually for some families—would exacerbate affordability challenges throughout the state, and they assert that the pause prevents ODOT from generating new revenue until voters have the opportunity to express their opinions.

Oregon Department of Human Services – New federal work rules for SNAP food benefits are now in place statewide in Oregon

The new rules specifically are for people who have Able-Bodied Adult Without Dependents (ABAWD) status. Here’s what’s changed:

– Oregon had previously waived ABAWD work requirements in 30 of 36 counties and all Tribal lands because of limited job opportunities. These waivers were scheduled to last until Dec. 31, 2025. The USDA ended them earlier.

– A recent federal law passed in July 2025 also changed who must follow ABAWD work rules. These rules now apply to adults ages 18–64 who do not have children under age 14 in their SNAP household. This is a change from the previous rules, which applied only to adults up to age 54 and households without children under age 18.

– In addition, the new federal law makes it so that some groups who were previously exempt now must meet work rules. This includes veterans, people who were in foster care, and people experiencing homelessness.

We have sent out notices to people who may be impacted. Contact us right away at 1-833-947-1694 or SNAP.ABAWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.gov if you have questions about these new rules or if you think they may apply to you and need help.

You can read more in this news release: https://apps.oregon.gov/…/snap-food-benefit-work-rules…

Oregon Health Authority urges caution to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning during winter months

• What you should know: 
  • Carbon monoxide risks increase during winter due to tighter home ventilation and heavier use of heating appliances.
  • Carbon monoxide exposure can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion and loss of consciousness, and it can be fatal. 
  • Have wood stoves, chimneys and vents regularly inspected and cleaned, ensure wood-burning devices are properly vented, and never use outdoor heating or cooking devices inside homes.

PORTLAND, Ore – As temperatures drop and Oregon households rely more on wood stoves, space heaters and other heating sources, Oregon Health Authority is reminding people around the state to take steps to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. 

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas produced whenever fuel is burned. In winter, carbon monoxide risks increase due to tighter home ventilation and heavier use of heating appliances. Exposure can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, loss of consciousness and can be fatal without prompt treatment. 

“Carbon monoxide tragedies are preventable,” said David Farrer, Ph.D., toxicologist in the OHA Public Health Division’s Environmental Public Health Section. “Proper maintenance, ventilation and working carbon monoxide alarms are essential for keeping families safe during the winter.”

In Oregon last year, there were 121 emergency and urgent care visits from carbon monoxide poisoning. Since Oct. 1 this year, there have been 55 carbon monoxide poisoning emergency and urgent care visits. 

Wood stoves and heating safety

 Improperly installed, poorly maintained, or inadequately vented wood stoves are a leading cause of winter carbon monoxide incidents. OHA urges residents to: 

• Have wood stoves, chimneys and vents inspected and cleaned annually by certified professionals.
• Ensure all wood-burning devices are properly vented to the outside.
• Never use outdoor heating or cooking devices, such as camp stoves, charcoal grills or generators – inside homes, garages or enclosed spaces. 

Additional safety tips

• Install battery-powered or battery-backed-up carbon monoxide alarms on every level of the home.
• Test alarms monthly and replace batteries twice a year.
• Never run vehicles, generators or gas-powered tools in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces.
• Seek fresh air immediately and call 911 if a carbon monoxide alarm sounds or if symptoms occur. 

For video of woodstoves in use and battery-backed -up carbon monoxide alarms, click here. 

For more information on carbon monoxide prevention and winter safety, visit OHA’s website at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/ph/preparedness/currenthazards/pages/carbonmonoxidepoisoning.aspx.

BLM’s “One Dollar, One Tree” Holiday Savings Across Local Public Lands — Effective through January 31, the BLM is reducing many personal-use permit fees to just $1, including Christmas tree permits and firewood permits.

New fee reductions and expanded cutting areas offer meaningful savings for families this winter

The Bureau of Land Management has announced a series of holiday affordability measures that will help families save money, enjoy public lands, and support wildfire prevention efforts across Oregon and Washington during the 2025–2026 winter season.

Effective immediately through January 31, the BLM is reducing many personal-use permit fees to just $1, including Christmas tree permits and firewood permits. Local BLM offices are also opening new cutting areas in overstocked woodlands to provide families with more opportunities to gather their own firewood and Christmas trees, while also supporting forest thinning and hazardous fuel reduction.

 “Here in Oregon and Washington, families rely on public lands for tradition, recreation, and essential resources,” said Barry Bushue, BLM OR/WA State Director. “These fee reductions and expanded access make it easier for people to gather firewood and Christmas trees close to home, all while helping us reduce hazardous fuels and improve forest health.”

These actions align with the Trump administration’s mission to lower costs for American families and will contribute to national savings estimated at more than $9.4 million this holiday season.

Effective immediately, the BLM will:

• Reduce fees for personal-use Christmas tree and firewood permits.
• Increase household limits to up to 10 cords of firewood and up to three Christmas trees, with flexibility to adjust limits in areas with abundant resources.

These steps will help reduce household costs, expand access to local woodlands, and improve forest conditions by removing overstocked or hazardous fuels. The BLM will continue coordinating with community partners, tribal governments and local organizations to share information about permit availability and new cutting areas.

Residents can find up-to-date information on permit locations, cutting area maps, and safety guidance at: https://www.blm.gov/programs/natural-resources/forests-and-woodlands/forest-product-permits/oregon-christmas-trees

-BLM- The BLM manages roughly 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

OHA urges vaccinations as flu activity rises  

– As influenza activity increases over the next two months before its expected peak in early spring, health officials urge everyone to get their flu vaccine, particularly as people gather indoors to celebrate the holidays. 

So far, hospitalizations remain low. But the percentage of positive flu tests is on the rise.

“The flu season generally continues into the spring, which means flu activity will continue to increase for many months,” said Howard Chiou, M.D., Ph.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at Oregon Health Authority’s Public Health Division. “That’s why it’s never too late to get the flu vaccine.”

Chiou added that getting vaccinated now is especially important. “People will leave Thanksgiving, not only with leftovers, but also with the flu. It’s not too late to get your flu shot, especially before the upcoming holidays. The flu shot is the best way to help make sure you don’t miss out on holiday festivities or get other people sick.”

Last year’s flu season in Oregon was the worst in the state’s recent history. OHA releases the latest information on the flu season in its weekly FluBites report. Information on flu activity can also be found on Oregon’s Respiratory Virus Data dashboard.

Flu is a contagious, respiratory tract infection caused by the influenza virus.

Symptoms can include fever, cough, sore throat, stuffy and runny nose, muscle aches, headache and fatigue. It can result in mild to severe illness, including hospitalization and death.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) recommend seasonal flu vaccination for everyone ages 6 months or older.

Nearly 1 million people in Oregon have been vaccinated so far this year, which is about 5% lower than at the same time last year. The flu vaccination rate has been in decline for several years.

Certain groups, including older adults, young children, pregnant people and people with certain health conditions, are at higher risk for serious complications from influenza.

The hospitalization rate is highest for people ages 65 and older, but flu seasons are unpredictable and even young and healthy people can develop severe disease.

The best way people can protect themselves and others is by getting a flu vaccine every year.

People can get the COVID-19, influenza and RSV vaccines by contacting their health plan, health care provider, county public health clinic or federally qualified health center. Parents and caregivers of children can also search for a clinic by calling 211 or visiting 211info.org.  — This video reminds people not to let influenza take us out of the picture this year. 

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