COOS BAY, OR – Southwestern Oregon Community College’s STEAM Pathways has 2025 summer and fall paid internships for high school students. Any person, age 16 years and older, attending high school whether it be public, private, online, or homeschool, is eligible to apply.

Students will work alongside faculty mentors and the SWOCC SPEAR (STEAM Pathways Experimental & Academic Research) Student Research Team, under a site supervisor, engaging in a variety of science research projects. Students will also have the opportunity to present their research at SWOCC's Annual Student Research Symposium.

All internships will take place at the SWOCC Coos Bay Campus (1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay) for up to 20 hours per week for 8 weeks in the summer, or up to 10 hours per week for 16 weeks in the fall.

This program is in partnership with the Oregon Coast STEM Hub and Oregon Sea Grant. It is made possible by the Oregon Community Foundation.

For more information please contact Krystal Hopper Meyers, STEAM Pathways Assistant, at 541-888-7416, or krystal.hopper@socc.edu.

Classified sellers, watch out—there’s a scam making the rounds again. A “buyer” offers to pay with a cashier’s check, often writing it for more than your asking price. They say the extra money is to pay a mover who will pick up the item. Once the check “clears,” they ask you to hand over the extra funds to the mover.

Here’s the catch: the check is fake. When your bank realizes it—often days later—you’re on the hook for the full amount. By then, the scammer’s “mover” has taken both your item and the cash.

This version is especially dangerous because the mover actually shows up. That person walks off with your property and money—sometimes caught on doorbell cameras, but not always identifiable.

Red flags:

Overpayment with instructions to refund the difference.

Pressure to deposit a cashier’s check quickly.

A buyer who avoids meeting or insists on sending a third party.

A transaction that just feels “off.”

Stay safe:

Only accept cash or secure electronic payment from local buyers.

Never refund or pay extra money to anyone tied to a mailed check.

If in doubt, check with your bank or walk away.

Report scams to:

Oregon DOJ Consumer Protection: 1-877-877-9392

FTC: reportfraud.ftc.gov

Your local police department

Trust your instincts—if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

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Why do we call capital letters “upper case” and the other letters “lower case”?  Why do we call it “typing”?

Find the answer to these and much more any Wednesday through Saturday summer afternoons when you visit The Marshfield Sun Printing Museum on Coos Bay’s historic waterfront.

The Sun’s original—and now historic—printing presses and other fascinating equipment can be viewed up close as skilled volunteers interpret and demonstrate how they work.  Printing Museum volunteers also answer questions about the Museum’s exhibits on printing and office technology, as well as on the life of the Sun’s founder, Jesse Luce.

Combine a visit to the Marshfield Sun with a visit to the nearby Coos History Museum for a jam-packed afternoon of interesting local history.

The Marshfield Sun Printing Museum is a unique printing museum located at the north end of Front Street on Coos Bay’s historic waterfront. The unusually shaped building was built as the home for the Marshfield Sun newspaper and print shop in 1911. The Marshfield Sun was a working newspaper office and print shop from 1891 to 1944—and is today essentially as it was left in 1944, plus additional exhibits on the walls and upstairs.

The Marshfield Sun Printing Museum’s regular summer hours begin after Memorial Day and go to Labor Day:  1pm – 4pm, Wednesdays through Saturdays.  Admission is free, although donations are encouraged.

Find the Marshfield Sun Printing Museum on Facebook for photos and more!

Each April, during Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month, we host our annual Pinwheel Ride to raise funds and awareness for children who have experienced abuse and neglect in our community. We are currently seeking a Harley Davidson motorcycle to raffle off at our 2026 Pinwheel Ride. If you are interested in donating your motorcycle, we would love to hear from you. All proceeds from the raffle will directly benefit local children through CASA and the 7 Devils Chapter of Bikers Against Child Abuse.

If you’d like more information or are interested in helping, please contact us. Thank you for considering making a difference for kids in need!

Visit https://www.orcca.us/casa or contact Greg Dalton - Program Director for CASA of Coos and Curry Counties at 541-435-7103.

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Contributed By: North Bend Senior Center

Are you looking for a meaningful way to give back to your community and make a difference in the lives of seniors? If so, we have an opportunity for you!

The North Bend Senior Center is a nonprofit organization that provides a safe and inviting environment for seniors to gather together and participate in activities that enhance their physical and mental wellbeing, as well as give them the opportunity to socialize with other seniors.

We offer a wide range of programs and activities, such as:

• Bunco, Bingo, Folk Dancing, Tai Chi, Chair Yoga, Card Clubs, Chess Club, Photography Club, Ukelele Group, Zumba, Book Club, Walking Group, and a Lunch Program.

• A quarterly Artisan Craft Sale where seniors can showcase and sell their handmade products.

• Events, presentations, and programs to support our senior community.

We are always looking for volunteers to help us with our mission. We have a wide variety of volunteer opportunities at the center, such as:

• Helping with our lunch program, which serves nutritious meals to seniors four days a week.

• Assisting at our bingo games, which are a popular and fun way for seniors to win prizes and socialize.

• Leading or teaching special projects, such as bridge, crafts, and activities that match your skills and interests.

• Serving on our board of directors, which oversees the management and direction of the center.

Whether you are available for one hour a month or 3-4 hours a week, we operate on the support of our volunteers. You are needed!

Volunteering at the North Bend Senior Center is a rewarding and fulfilling experience. You will have the opportunity to:

• Make new friends and build relationships with seniors who appreciate your time and effort.

• Learn new skills and share your talents and knowledge with others.

• Have fun and enjoy yourself while doing something good for your community.

If you are interested in volunteering at the North Bend Senior Center, please contact us. Leave a message at 541-756-7622 or email northbendseniorcenter@gmail.com. We are also on the Coos County Area Transit (CCAT) Bus Route, so getting to us is easy and convenient.

We hope to hear from you soon!

The American Legion of Bandon, the nation's largest wartime veterans service organization, offered a presentation on proper flag etiquette to the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Coos Bay Chapter. This collaboration underscores both organizations' shared commitment to honoring the American flag. By sharing our knowledge of proper flag etiquette, we hope to ensure its respectful display by all Americans. Gary Sands Adjutant American Legion of Bandon covered folding and handling the flag with respect, the symbolism behind the flag’s design and colors, and the retirement of worn flags with proper ceremony. If you need a flag blessed or help properly disposing of one, please contact The American Legion at (541) 347-9277. The American Legion is the nation's largest wartime veterans service organization, committed to veteran welfare, national security, and Americanism. If interested in joining or for more information on the American Legion in Bandon, please visit their website vfw3440.org

Founded in 1890, the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) is a non-profit, non-political women's service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving history, and securing America's future. Its members descend from patriots who aided the American Revolution. With over 185,000 members in approximately 3,000 chapters across the world, DAR is one of the largest women's service organizations in the world. If you would like more information on joining please email darcoosbaychapter@gmail.com

The Coos Bay Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution would like to extend a thank you to Gary Sands Adjutant and the entire American Legion Post and also the Coos Bay Public Library for their assistance in collecting flags to be properly disposed of

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The Bandon Quilters Guild is a wonderfully supportive group of quilters and all experience levels are welcome. Our goal is to promote the art of quilting while giving back to the community through donations to organizations such as the VFW, nursing homes, Kids Hope Center, Bandon Police, Pregnancy Center, and those affected by natural disasters.

If you love quilting or want to learn, contact us about joining at suzyquiltsalot@gmail.com.

You can make a difference! The Long-Term Care Ombudsman program is an independent state agency serving our local long-term care facility residents? Coos and Curry Counties are desperately searching for volunteers for this lonely, vulnerable population.

Ombudsman’s reward is the smile on a resident's face as you are the only visitor they see that week, month or that year! A willingness to advocate for our forgotten elderly and a five day training program starts you on a journey knowing you are making a difference in someone’s life and giving back to the community. Aside from the training, a certified ombudsmen must be over 21, pass a background check and be able to volunteer 16 hours a month. The training is interactive on ZOOM  in your own home. Zoom training does require access to a computer and a good Internet connection. Come join us!

For training, an application process must be completed. Submit an application either online or by mail or fax, be interviewed, reference checked, and a Criminal Records Check. Please consider helping some of your most vulnerable community members!

You may contact one of our local Ombudsmen directly- Edith Lanuza  541-756-5730 or Susann Steinberg  541-267-0892

Or to apply,  (800) 522-2602 or email ltco.info@oregon.gov.

Contributed By: the Langlois Lions Club

A not-to-miss huge garage sale is to be hosted by the Langlois Lions club August 16th & 17th. Saturday and Sunday 9 am -4 pm. at the Lions Club house:48136 Floras Lake Loop. The white building is just up the road from Highway 101 if taking northern entrance. There also will be signs.

A lot has happened this past year including the completion of wonderful new bathrooms, new doors, and almost finished kitchen. The red carpet room is completely full of shelved collectibles due to a magnificent donation of pristine items by a local community member. There will be no need to rummage.

There will also be many gently-used and priced items. Items include kitchen ware, wet suits, an antique loom, a bicycle, a scooter for disabled, knives, etc.

The vendors: Myrtle wood items, used household things and a great vintage display..

The price for one vendor table is $10, $ 5 for each extra table. Outdoor parking places are free for those who choose trunk or pickup bed sales.

As a gentle reminder especially if you are summer cleaning, the Lions club still takes used eye glasses, cell phones and hearing aids. Drop these articles off in the labeled boxes at the Langlois Library, the Port Orford library and the Langlois post office-rest assured that the donations are sent up to our Oregon Sight and Hearing Foundation for sorting, repairing, evaluating the lens prescription , etc. Cell phones are programmed solely to 911 and are distributed to women in shelters who are at high risk for further abuse. So one can feel good rather easily, even a single donation of a pair of glasses can help someone see.

Finally, our organization is small but mighty holding five fund-raisers a year. The holiday craft fair is co-sponsored by the Friends of the Library. You do not have to be member to volunteer (although new members always wholeheartedly welcomed.) Such activities could include helping move chairs and tables for events, baking a cake for our chili feed or craft fair, growing plants for our plant sale or set up a display of your favorite rocks for our rock fair.

We think that the people here have a great sense of community and the the Lions wish to enhance that impression by sponsoring family friendly events open to all. We thank you in advance for any ideas furthering the use of building which offers many possibilities.

Call to register or for more details. Deanna McDermott, secr., 541-251-1530- text, home phone 541-348-2507 or message on FB.

Be on the lookout—fake $100 bills are being used in our area, especially at garage sales. These counterfeit bills may look convincing at first glance but are clearly marked with the words “FOR MOTION PICTURE PURPOSES”. They will fail when tested with a counterfeit detection pen. Please use extra caution when accepting $100 bills, particularly in cash-based settings. If you suspect a bill is fake, do not accept it and report it to local authorities.

Join the Coos Watershed Association and the City of North Bend for a storm drain stencil session at the North Bend Public Library from 10 am to 12 pm on Friday, August 22. Help us add art to the community that also educates on the importance of reducing storm water pollution. There are #no filters on storm drains, everything will empty into the bay and eventually the ocean.

Important details:

RSVP required by 8.20, contact Kara at kklietz@cooswatershed.org or call 541-888-5922 ext. 311

Wear paint clothes that can get dirty

Activity will include movements like kneeling/sitting on pavement and getting up from pavement, kneeling pads are provided

Stencils are easy to use for all artist levels! Minors (above the age of 10) are welcome with guardian supervision.

Contributed by DAR - Daughters of the Revolution

The Coos Bay Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution are seeking donations for The Safe Project in Coos Bay. The Safe Project, formerly known as Women’s Safety and Resource Center, provides emergency services in our local community to women, men and children.

Items being sought include:

Hygiene products, trail size

Childrens toys

Clothing, clean and free from rips and tears

Infant items

For a complete list or if you have any questions, please reach out to DAR. Donations can be dropped off at the South Coast Shopper, M-F from 8a-4p, located at 62706 Hwy 101, Coos Bay.

DAR can be reached by emailing: darcoosbaychapter@gmail.com or calling Britney at 541-404-1734.

Contributed By: Friends of Coos County  Animals(FOCCAS)

We are absolutely busting at the seams right now with 93 animals in our care and many more cats and kittens waiting for a foster home. Sadly, we’ve had to make the difficult decision to stop taking in new animals until we have more foster homes available. As a foster-based organization without a shelter, we rely entirely on dedicated volunteers to house and care for these animals. Additionally, as a registered Animal Rescue Entity (ARE), we are regulated by the state on how many animals can be placed in each foster home, which limits our capacity even further.

Our longtime fosters are worn out, and with a backlog for spay/neuter appointments keeping animals in care longer, we urgently need new fosters to help us through this exceptionally busy kitten season. If you’ve never fostered before, don’t worry! We can pair you up with one of our experienced fosters, who will be there to answer any questions and guide you along the way. Just let us know what you’re comfortable with—whether it’s an adult or teenage cat, a small litter or a dog. We can accommodate your needs to make fostering a smooth experience.

This is not just a local crisis; animal rescues and shelters across the country are stretched beyond capacity. Here in Coos County, with more pets being surrendered and fewer adopters coming forward, there is an unprecedented need for safe, loving temporary homes. If you’ve ever thought about fostering, now is the perfect time. Fostering gives animals a safe place to decompress and prepare for their forever homes. By opening your heart and home, even temporarily, you’re not just helping that animal—you’re making space for another in desperate need.

For an application and more information on how you can make a difference to the community, visit foccas.net.

In May 2023, Curry Public Library became a local site for “Step It Up,” a two-year research project, sponsored by Oregon Health & Science University School of Nursing, that organized walking programs through rural public libraries around the state. With Phoebe Skinner as the initial coordinator, a group of Gold Beach citizens came together as Walk On! Gold Beach, to walk together and produce a wellness-promoting community project—informational brochures, web pages, and signage for three walking routes around town.*

With the research project now wrapped up, Walk On! members can invite new walkers for their Thursday morning outings. The group assembles at 10:15am at the library to carpool to a different walking area each week; walks last about an hour. In addition to the routes in the brochure, the group recently explored the Frances Shrader Old Growth Trail, the Jim Hunt Birding Loop, and several segments of the Rogue River Walk on Jerry’s Flat Road. Walks are casually paced (slow enough to pick up litter) and not too strenuous.

If you would like to participate, join the group on a Thursday outside the library; you can also contact Margaret Ostrowski, wamski4@yahoo.com, with questions and to opt in for an email about the coming week’s walk.

*Pick up a brochure at the library for maps of each walk and a QR code for online viewing of historical photos along the routes.

The library hosts another walking group on Mondays from 12:15pm-12:45pm. Meet in the library lobby at 12:10 to join the walk. Community members are welcome to walk in either or both of the groups!

GRWB STEP’s Annual Labor Day Weekend Salmon Derby was canceled by extremely low forecasts for returning Umpqua River Fall Chinook Salmon. The derby was GRWB STEP’s #1 fund raiser.

Despite the 2025 Labor Day weekend STEP Salmon Derby being cancelled, STEP will hold a public Extended Fund Raising Raffle at Blue Box Seafood on Sunday, August 31st at 2:30 PM.

Expanded Fund-Raising Raffle Prices:

1 ticket-$2.00;  3 Tickets-$5.00; 7 tickets-$10.00; 15 tickets-$20.00. Tickets available at Ace Hardware in Reedsport; Salmon Harbor Tackle in Winchester Bay

Grand Prize: complete Kayaking Package including life jacket, kayak paddle, rod & reel and a tackle box filled with goodies.

Additional raffle prizes: rods & reels, tackle, outdoor recreation and camping gear, guided fishing and crabbing trips, merchandise from local businesses, gift certificates and  much, much more.

One lucky angler’s ticket will be drawn for the GRWB STEP Daiwa Tanacom 1000 Electric Assist Reel & Penn Rod, (a $900.00 value). *Tickets: $10.00 each

Winners announced for the Reedsport, Winchester Bay Chamber of Commerce and Winchester Bay Merchants Association CRAB BOUNTY. 1st place cash prize: $1000.00; 2nd place: $500.00. Additional winners receive $100.00 Gift Certificates.

Awards for Kid’s Crab Bounty announced.

Bring the whole family for a fun afternoon, win prizes, and contribute to GRWB STEP’s lower Umpqua River Fall Chinook Salmon program.

Free BBQ - Sunday, August 17th from 4-6PM. Morgan Creek Fish hatchery 91755 Morgan Creek Ln. Coos Bay, OR. Hotdog hamburgers and drinks will be served. Public is welcome. South Coast Anglers would like you to meet our volunteers who help with the Salmon Trout Enhancement Program in the Coos basin.

Please RSVP to Cliff Lance 541-267-7178.

Thursday, August 21 at 6:00 pm, the Unlimited Book Club will meet on Zoom. Unlimited is a joint venture of the Coos Bay Public Library and the North Bend Public Library. We formed to encourage awareness and foster community discussions on equity, diversity, and inclusion through reading and thoughtful conversation. Unlimited meets every third Thursday of the month.

This meeting will be an opportunity for members to meet and discuss our next title, a film selected by book club members, The Black Panthers: Vanguard of the Revolution. Note: we decided to watch a film in August to give us more time to read our 560-page September book, Demon Copperhead. Suggestions for future readings will come from members of Unlimited.

Those interested are invited to attend the meeting, there is no obligation to stay. To receive Zoom link for meeting, register for free @ https://bit.ly/3R6E57M

Babies 3 to 12 months old are invited to the North Bend Public Library for Tummy Time Painting on Saturday, August 23 from 10:30-11:30 AM. Tummy Time Painting is a gentle, mess-free introduction to color, texture, and sensory exploration. Little ones will engage in a fun, age-appropriate art activity that encourages movement and visual stimulation - all while keeping hands and clothes clean. Caregivers and babies are welcome to drop-in anytime between 10:30 and 11:30 AM.

New Look, New Tools, Same Mission to Power Oregon’s South Coast

COOS BAY, Ore. – The South Coast Development Council, Inc. (SCDC) is celebrating 25 years of economic  growth and community support on Oregon’s South Coast. Founded in 2000, SCDC has unveiled a refreshed brand—including a new logo, website, and expanded programming—as it charts a bold course for the future of the region.

“Our region is rich in potential—and SCDC is here to help turn that potential into reality,” said Lexie Woodward, Executive Director of SCDC. “With new tools, stronger member benefits, and a renewed focus, we’re ready to grow businesses, attract investment, and support our communities for the next 25 years.”

A Celebratory Milestone

On July 10, SCDC welcomed more than 80 board members, partners, and supporters—past and present—to commemorate its 25th anniversary. The event, sponsored by Pacific Coast Intermodal Port, honored key individuals and organizations that have supported SCDC’s mission since its founding.

Awards were presented to ten individuals and ten founding partners, including:

• Port of Coos Bay

• City of Coos Bay

• City of North Bend

• Southwestern Oregon Community College

• Bay Area Hospital

• Bandon Dunes Golf Resort

• Coos County

• NW Natural

• Pacific Power

• City of Reedsport

Updated Vision and Mission

• Vision: Bringing people, places, and possibilities together.

• Mission: Collaboratively drive sustainable development and living-wage job investment through Business Expansion, Attraction and Retention (BEAR).

Join SCDC – Invest in South Coast Growth

SCDC has updated its membership program to offer more value and impact. Member support powers core operations, leverages grant funding, and signals united regional progress. New member benefits include:

• Quarterly economic data briefings

• Exposure in business attraction packets

• Features in entrepreneurial programs like Pitch Night and Morning Grind Mastermind

To learn more, visit https://bit.ly/4l9zBMS. View member stories at https://bit.ly/46Bi5h0.

Stay Connected

• Sign up for newsletters: Economic - https://bit.ly/3H40tjq | Entrepreneurship - https://bit.ly/4lfuHy0

• Follow @SCDCInc on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram

• Explore the new website: www.scdcinc.org

Upcoming Event: Morning Grind Mastermind

Join entrepreneurs and small business owners from across Coos and Douglas Counties for peer-driven

support and collaboration. Learn more and register at https://bit.ly/45dj7xf.

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Coos Bay Public Library, in partnership with Coos Head Food Co-op, will co-host COMMUNITY COOKING WITH THE CO-OP every fourth Thursday at 5:30pm on Zoom (virtual meeting software). Next event: Thursday, August 28

Coos Bay Library has teamed up with Coos Head Food Co-op to provide safe, easy, and healthy recipes to create at home. Join us virtually for this fun community event! This month, culinary instructor, Valerie Verkerke, will be making Stuffed Portobellos & Summer Salad.

This event is FREE and open to everyone. For ingredients and access, please register by going to https://bit.ly/3powyqG

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A memory café is an informal social gathering for older adults living with memory loss and their care partners. Memory cafés are designed to be a casual, stress-free gathering to allow care partners the opportunity to relax and socialize with others in their same situation. Memory cafés provide a safe, supportive space where activities are not dependent on flawless memories. Coffee and snacks will be provided, and there is no cost to attend. However, this is not a care facility, and care partners are required to accompany their partners.

This pilot project is funded by an Elder Service Innovation Grant from OHSU’s Office of Oregon Rural Health grant. The project is the work of Drea Douglas (North Bend Public Library), Kelli Bosak (North Bend Medical Center), and Lualhati Anderson (Oregon Older Adult Behavioral Health Initiative). They hope to find community partners who will host cafés as well, with a goal of having at least one memory café every week in Coos and Curry Counties.

Memory Café Coos is held the first Wednesday of every month from 10:30 AM to noon, and Memory Café Curry meets at the same time on the third Wednesday of every month. Memory Café Coos is held at the North Bend Public Library, and Memory Café Curry is held at the Curry Public Library in Gold Beach. Memory cafés are designed both for people experiencing memory issues as well as their care partners. Care partners may include but are not limited to spouses, siblings, children, or friends. Memory Café Coos and Memory Café Curry will be staffed by qualified healthcare providers (LCSW), library staff, and volunteers.

For more information about Memory Café Coos, please see @MemoryCafeCoos on Facebook, email memorycafecoos@gmail.com, or call the North Bend Public Library at 541-756-0400. For more information about Memory Café Curry, call the Curry Public Library at 541-247-7246.

COOS BAY, OR – Southwestern Oregon Community College is seeking the community’s help to honor graduates who have gone on after college to improve their professions, education, communities, and the world. Each year since 1992, the College has requested nominations for a distinguished alumni.The College is accepting nominations for 2024 through April 1. To be eligible, nominees must have graduated with a degree or certificate, or have completed a minimum of 60 credits from Southwestern.Past recipients have included leaders in education, the arts, Native American tribes, business and finance, research, health care, and the military. Today, Southwestern’s graduates continue to distinguish themselves in professions and innovative efforts to build friendships around the globe. The College wants to celebrate these individuals who have contributed selflessly to improving society. Please consider nominating alumni for the recognition they deserve.To read more about past recipients, go to Alumni News at www.socc.edu/alumni-news/.To download the nomination form, go to: https://www.socc.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/dist_alumni_nom_fillable.pdf Please submit nomination forms by April 1 to: alumni@socc.eduOr mail them to:Southwestern Oregon Community College c/o President’s Office1988 Newmark Ave.Coos Bay, OR  97420

Community Yoga is back at the Coos Bay Library! Join us on Mondays from 5:30-6:30 pm for this beginner friendly yoga class led by Mona Dunham of The Center of Attention yoga and massage studio. No experience is necessary as these classes are open to beginners and those with experience. Increase your flexibility and strength, get centered, and enjoy a workout in a supportive environment. Wear comfortable workout clothes and bring a yoga mat if you have one. This FREE event is open to everyone age 12 and up.

August 13th – Healthy Aging: Brain Health Symposium for medical and mental health professionals working with older adults; 8:30 am- 4 pm. Register at 541-751-5024.

August 14th – Positive Approach to Care Dementia Series. For paid and non-paid caregivers working with people living with dementia. 8:30 am – 4 pm.  Register at 541-751-5024.

August 14th- Resilient Aging:  Falls Prevention.  Learn about falls prevention and ways to reduce risks of falling esp. among older adults.  10 am – 12 pm.  Register at 541-751-5024.

Designed to protect a newly restored wetland and open the South Trail System to more visitors, this project helps more people connect with nature in meaningful ways.

CHARLESTON, Ore – As part of the Wasson Creek Restoration Project, a new accessible boardwalk is being constructed on the southern part of the South Slough Reserve. This new boardwalk is independent of the popular Big Cedar Trail boardwalk and will allow visitors to the Reserve to traverse the estuaries edge in the Wasson Valley.

“This boardwalk is part of a longstanding goal of the Reserve to be more accessible, allowing people with different mobilities to access meaningful areas within the Reserve,” said Patricia Fox, Reserve Manager.

The new boardwalk trail will also be an education tool for the Reserve, especially for the many schoolchildren and community members that take advantage of the Reserve education programming.

The Oregon Department of State Lands enacted specific trail and forest closures as a public safety measure due to hazards from boardwalk construction and use of heavy equipment. From August 1, 2025, to January 30, 2026, no forest activities are permitted in the Wasson Valley, including hunting. The South Trail System, including Fredrickson Marsh Loop, is closed August 11–22, 2025, and again September 1–October 1, 2025.

South Slough Visitor Center trails remain open daily from dawn - dusk. Updates to closure will be made available through our website at southsloughestuary.org or by calling the Visitor Center during normal business hours at 541-888-5558.  For more information and a hunting map, please visit https://tinyurl.com/3jt94cpb.

Funding for the project comes from the National Estuarine Research Reserve System Habitat Protection and Restoration Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Coos Basin Coho Partnership, and Coquille Tribal Community Fund.

The Coos Bay/North Bend Parkinson’s Support Group has moved its monthly meeting to the Coos Bay Public Library, Myrtlewood Room, 525 West Anderson Avenue, Coos Bay. The support group meets on the second Thursday of each month from 1pm-2:30pm and is sponsored by Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon (PRO). Local contact information: Aaron - 541-808-1336. Learn more about PRO’s services at www.parkinsonsresources.org

The Coos Bay Public Library will offer a monthly hands-on preschool art program for young artists 3-6 years old the third Thursday of every month from 10:00-11:00 am (June 19, July 17, and August 21).  The program is free; no pre-registration is necessary.  Each program will feature a different craft project that reinforces early literacy concepts and gives parents and caregivers and young children an opportunity to meet each other.

The program is part of the Coos Bay Public Library’s ongoing programming for young people and families.  For additional information about programs being offered by the Coos Bay Public Library please contact the library by calling (541) 269-1101 x 3606 or visit the library’s website at www.coosbaylibrary.org.

Gardiner-Reedsport-Winchester Bay S.T.E.P., Reedsport-Winchester Bay Chamber of Commerce and Winchester Bay Merchants Association have joined together to produce the 2025 CRAB BOUNTY HUNT replacing the Labor Day Weekend S.T.E.P. Salmon Derby that was cancelled by extremely low forecast returns for Umpqua River Fall Chinook Salmon.

100 Legal Male Crabs Have Been Tagged & Released - $1500.00 in Cash Prizes. Going on now through August 31st, 2025

Registration Tickets on Sale for $20.00 each at Salmon Harbor Tackle: 495 Beach Blvd, Winchester Bay. 541-361-6256.

• Tagged crabs with must be registered at Salmon Harbor Tackle prior to 2:00 pm August 31st to be eligible

• Tag Drawing: Blue Box Cafe, (200 Coho Loop, Winchester Bay) at 2:00 pm August 31st.

• All registered tags are placed in a blind drawing *A PRE-SELECTED tag number has been chosen and placed in a secure location. At drawing time, the pre-selected tag number will be reveled and matched to a participant's registered tag. *Winner receives the $1000.00 Cash Grand Prize. *Second Place Winner gets $500.00 Cash. *3rd - 8th place winners receive a $100.00 credit for Charter Services

• If the pre-selected tag number has not been registered, a back-up drawing will be held with the 1st registered tag drawn winning the $1000.00 cash prize. The second tag drawn wins the $500.00 cash prize and 3rd through 8th place tags drawn win $100.00 credit for Charter Services

• Recreational crabbing gear only. Commercial crabbers, crabbers with charter services, STEP members, members of the Winchester Bay Merchants Association, their immediate families and employees are not eligible to participate

• Kids, 12 years and younger may participate in a special Crab Bounty Hunt for non-cash prizes.

• Complete Derby Rules are Posted at Salmon Harbor Tackle

All ODFW Regulations and Laws Relating to Sport Dungeness Crab Harvest Apply

All Proceeds Support the Gardiner-Reedsport-Winchester Bay Salmon Trout Enhancement Program (STEP)

CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates. It may sound like a scary volunteer opportunity and many people tell us that they are not sure they are qualified to be a CASA. Here’s a little information about what you need to become a CASA volunteer:

1. Have a heart for abused and neglected children.

2. Be able to pass a background check.

3. Attend our National CASA pre-service training.

4. Attend our swearing-in ceremony where we all meet in one of our courtrooms and new CASAs get sworn in by one of our juvenile court judges – it’s a celebration!

That’s it! You don’t have to come from any specific profession or background to be able to make a difference for a child in foster care. Our CASA staff will walk alongside you during your advocacy.

CASA serves children in foster care by recruiting, training, and supervising volunteers to advocate for their best interests. Our CASAs are the only adults whose sole priority is the wellbeing of the child. They ensure that children in foster care receive the support they need while in care and are placed in loving, safe, and permanent homes.

A young lady who was in foster care in Coos County a few years ago stated, “My CASA was the person who fought the hardest for me and she was the only person who wasn’t getting paid to fight.”

Are you ready? We need you and our kids need you! www.orcca.us/casa - CASA@ORCCA.US - 541-435-7103.

Library of Things and Food Preservation Kick-Off Event: Aug 23 from 3-5pm at the Coos Bay Public Library in the Myrtlewood Room. In partnership with OSU Extension, the library will show off the new food preservation items for the Library of Things. Staff from both organizations will be on hand to discuss the use of the items, upcoming programs related to food preservation, and other food preservation resources.

Family Resource Fair: Sept 4 from 4-6pm at the Coos Bay Public Library. Geared towards parents or caregivers of young people 0-18. Connect with organizations that offer services for young people and families, activities for young people and educational support. Learn what our community has to offer!

The American Council of the Blind of Oregon, Southwest Chapter meets: Every second Sat Sept through May on the second Sat of the month. For help & information please call 541-707-2226. 

COMMUNITY COOKING WITH THE CO-OP: August 28 from 5:30-6:30pm on Zoom. For this month’s recipe, culinary instructor, Valerie Verkerke, will be making Stuffed Portobellos & Summer Salad. Register for this virtual event @ https://bit.ly/3powyqG

Alzheimer's Association Community Conference: The Alzheimer's Association invites you to a Community Conference in North Bend on Tues, Sept 9 from 10am-2pm at the North Bend Library. Seating is Limited. Registration is required. Call 800-272-3900 or online at alz.org/CRF

Conversation Beyond The Walk: Sign up for two free community training, featuring diverse panelists and open dialogue. Friday, Sept 5 from 1-5pm at the North Bend public Library.

Walk with us to Prevent Suicide: Coos County Out of the Darkness. Sat Sept 27 at 10am. Register at afsp.org/cooscounty

Age Cafe: Third Friday of each month 10am-12pm at the Bandon Public Library. Lively conversations with fellow community members featuring discussion topics centered around aging well. For ages 19-99+.

Mythology, Health and Healing: What’s the Story Behind the Stories?- a Talk by Robert Walter: Robert “Bob” Walter will give a talk titled Mythology, Health and Healing: What’s the Story Behind the Stories at Curry Public Library on Tuesday, August 19 at 5:30pm.

Resilient Aging: Aug 14 from 10am-12pm at the Bandon Public Library. Free living and aging well community health and wellness education provided by the Older Adult Behavioral Health Initiative of Coos and Curry Counties.  Register Here: www.tinyurl.com/3z36sxd6

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Adult MHFA Training: Free. Thursday, Sept 4. 8:30-5pm at  the North Bend Public Library. Open to indivduals who work in medical and mental health fields, and community organizations. Sign up required by Friday, August 29. Email joanne.rutland@advancedhealth.com to register.

VA S.A.V.E. Training: VA S.A.V.E. Training is a free, brief online/inperson course that will help you act with care and compassion if you come across a Veteran who is in crisis. Aug 28 from 10:30 am-12pm at ODHS Brookings, 1210 Chetco Ave. Brookings. 

Caregivers Support Group: Gain valuable insights and education on coping strategies and resources for both caregivers and those with loved ones affected by cognitive loss. Third Thursday of every month 5:30-7:30pm at 1855 SE Ocean Blvd, Coos Bay. Call 541-267-4000 to RSVP

Cancer Support Group: 2nd and 4th Mon of each month from 2-3:30pm. at the South Coast Hospice & Palliative Care Services Community Bereavement & Education Center located at 1620 Thompson Road.

Breast Cancer: The 2nd and 4th Friday of each month from 1-2pm at the South Coast Hospice & Palliative Care Services Community Bereavement & Education Center located at 1620 Thompson Road, Coos Bay.

Parkinson’s Support Group: The Coos Bay/North Bend Parkinson’s Support Group meets at the Coos Bay Public Library, Myrtlewood Room, 525 West Anderson Avenue, Coos Bay. The support group meets on the second Thursday of each month from 1:00 - 2:30 and is sponsored by Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon (PRO). Local contact information: Aaron - 541.808.1336. Learn more about PRO’s services at www.parkinsonsresources.org

Can't Stop Drinking? We can help. 24hr Hotline! Alcoholics Anonymous: 541-269-3265 aaoregondistrict8.com

Open Men's Group: Every Mon from 6-8pm at the Coos Bay Library. Free, Confidential, Facilitated.

Community Zumba: Aug 27 and Sept 10 from 5:30-6:30pm  at the Coos Bay Public Library in the Myrtlewood Room. These classes are suitable for all experience and fitness levels. Wear comfortable workout clothes and shoes and bring water!

Join the Park pack of Coos Bay & North Bend Walking Group: Come join weekly walking events in local parks located in CB/NB, to help participants feel safety in numbers while enjoying the natural beauty & environment of our city parks. Kids & dogs welcome. For more times and days visit Park Pack on FB or call/text 541-252-9400

Walking Group at Curry Public Library: Every Monday at 12:15-12:45 at the Curry Public Library. Meets in the library lobby. Leaves at 12:15.

Toddler Music and Movement: Every Friday at 10:30am at the North Bend Public Library. For children 2-3 and their caregivers.