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Southwestern Oregon Preppers Meeting
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Southwestern Oregon Preppers (SWOP) will be holding a meeting at Noon on Saturday, December 21, 2024 at Mr. Ed's, 1870 Oregon St, Port Orford, OR 97465.  It's on the east side of HWY 101.

The main topic is "Were You Prepared For The Tsunami Warning?" The southern Oregon coast received a tsunami warning on Thursday, December 6, 2024. This will be a round table discussion to discuss what you did when you received the alert and what you will do differently to be better prepared in the future.

SWOP meetings always start with a question and answer period before the main topic so all in attendance get a chance to participate.

This is a free public meeting to get to know fellow local preppers in southwestern Oregon counties and to exchange information and ideas.  It is important for individuals to understand that they will be “on their own” in the event of a disaster and not depend on receiving outside help.  

Join Southwestern Oregon Preppers on Facebook and/or meetup.com

Oregon Oldtime Fiddlers Acoustic Jam
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The Oregon Oldtime Fiddlers, Dist. 5, will be hosting an acoustic jam on December 21, at the Odd Fellows Hall in Bandon  from 1-3 PM.  The hall is on 42S on the right just after the intersection with Highway 101.  This jam will feature Christmas music with an invite for everyone to join in singing and/or playing or both. Oldtime Fiddlers only use stringed instruments, harmonicas, and piano with no percussion, brass or woodwinds. People sit in a circle and progressively, everyone gets a turn or can pass. It’s lots of fun and really low key!  Please join us, there will be refreshments. For more information please call 541-759-3419 or 541-297-3419.

¡SPANGLISH!: Spanish Conversational Program
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On December 21, Coos Bay Public Library will be offering ¡SPANGLISH!: Spanish Conversational Program. We meet every third Saturday at the library from 10:30am-11:30am.

Program is for those who wish to practice their Spanish conversational skills and help other learners in a friendly setting. Attendees will have the opportunity to converse in Spanish as a group for one hour in a casual, informal environment. This is NOT a class, but we will provide ideas for conversational topics. Beginners are welcome. Let’s talk!

This program is FREE and open to anyone who wishes to sharpen their Spanish conversational skills.

NYE Dance Party for Preschoolers, Toddlers & Families
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Babies, toddlers, preschoolers and families are invited to ring in the New Year at a special New Year’s Eve Dance Party for the under 5 crowd at the Coos Bay Public Library on Tuesday, December 31 from 10:00-11:00 am. DJ Jennifer will spin tunes. Parachute, scarves, bubbles and some disco moves!

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 by visiting the library’s website at www.coosbaylibrary.org.

Holiday Events on the Southern Oregon Coast
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FLORENCE

28th Annual Victorian Christmas Open Houses - Sat. Dec 21-22, 4-7pm. Tour the lighthouse keeper's house and visit with Santa, be entertained with live music and performers, and enjoy merry refreshments. Parking $5/vehicle (cards only). Free shuttle is provided from parking lot to the Keeper’s Home. Admission to the home is free, donations welcome.  Info: www.hecetalighthouse.com.

NORTH BEND

Santa Claus at the Mall - Saturdays thru  Dec 21 from 12pm-6pm and Sundays 1pm-6pm, Dec 23-25 12pm-6pm. Santa breaks at 3-3:30. Pictures for a fee available.  Pony Village Mall, 1611 Virginia Ave.

South Coast Train Club Holiday Model Train Show - Sat Dec 21 10am-5pm, and Sun Dec 22 10am-4pm. Free Admission. Kingsview Christian School gym, 1850 Clark St.

Free Skating at North Bend Ice Skating Rink Sat Dec 21, 11am-3pm at 2040 Union Ave. Free Skating sponsored by Coos Health & Wellness. Info: www.northbendoregon.us/iceskatingrink 541-756-4613, swilson@northbendcity.org.

COOS BAY

Holiday Lights on the Trains - Starting on Thanksgiving  day through New Years Day, see Holiday Lights at the Oregon Coast Historical Railway, 766 S. First St. (Hwy 101 N - across from McDonald’s).  

CHARLESTON

Shore Acres Holiday Lights & Shuttle - PARKING ENTRY BY RESERVATION. If you have annual pass you will still need to reserve a pass with the fee waived. Reserve tickets by calling on M-F 8a-5pm to 1-800-452-5687 or visit  https://bit.ly/2024holidaylights. Free Santa Shuttle from Charleston Marina on Thanksgiving/Fri/Sat/Sun/Christmas Eve & Day/New Year's Eve, from 4:15-8pm - no pass/ticket necessary. Special treats at the Charleston Fishing Families office, adjacent to the parking lot while you wait for the shuttle.

POWERS

Powers Christmas Lights the Night Parade Sat Dec 21, at Powers County Park. Judging at 5pm, Lineup at 5:30pm and the parade starts at 6pm.

PORT ORFORD

Christmas at the Hughes - Open House Dec 23 10am-4pm at the Hughes House at Cape Blanco State Park. Music, art, silent auction, gift items, and more. Performance by jazz vocalist Shaymus Hanlin on Dec 23, 2-4pm. Sponsored by the Cape Blanco Heritage Society and Oregon State Parks. Capeblancoheritagesociety.com/events

BROOKINGS

Nature's Coastal Holiday - Festival of Lights at Azalea Park Nov. 29th-Dec. 29th, 5-9pm. Enjoy a 30-45min stroll through 100's of displays! Adults-$4 (cash only), kids 12 and under free. Santa and Mrs. Claus visit on Fri & Sat from 6pm-8pm. Follow Facebook page for updates and cancellations due to weather. naturescoastalholiday.com

Furry Friends Therapy Dogs
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Contributed By: Furry Friends Therapy Dogs

Furry Friends Therapy Dogs was founded by a group of like-minded persons who were involved in visits to several local caregiving facilities. This venture, in time, evolved into an organization which, in addition to visiting various facilities, recruits, evaluates and trains other volunteers and their dogs for therapy work.

It has long been demonstrated that the comforting interaction between animals, dogs in particular, and humans have lessened, and even alleviated, some of the many afflictions associated with aging, depression, poor health, hospital stay or confinement in rehab facilities.

Our visits now include most all the assisted living facilities, Lifecare, Avamere, BAH, Bay Area Hospital Cancer Center, Coquille Valley Hospital, Southern Coos Hospital in Bandon. We also have visits to Myrtle Point Care Center. We visited many kindergarten classes (prior to Covid). We lost many dogs and people and we are now rebuilding our ranks; we hope to be in the schools again in fall of 2025. We have a wonderful flip chart to teach them about responsible dog ownership. We spent the summer at the Farmer’s Market in Coos Bay to reach out to new teams.

Our group became a non-profit organization in 2004. We are now celebrating 20 years of service!

Furry Friends Therapy Dogs is open to persons and their companion dogs that are dedicated to the purpose and goals of our organization.

For more information please contact Wendy Rudder, Secretary, Furry Friends Therapy Dogs at 541.267.7427.

Volunteers Needed at NB Senior Center
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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!

American Legion Shares Flag Etiquette Expertise with Daughters of the American Revolution
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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

DIY Deer Creation
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Young people ages 6-14 can create a one-of-a-kind deer at the Coos Bay Public Library on  Monday, December 23 from 10:30-11:00 am. Participants will use wood glue and a hammer to assemble a pre-fabricated kit created by a local South Coast folk artist.

Limited space is available; pre-registration is required on the library’s website at www.coosbaylibrary.org or by calling the library at (541) 269-1101 x 3606. All materials provided.

For additional information about programs being offered by the Coos Bay Public Library please contact the library by calling (541) 269-1101 x3606 or by visiting the library’s website at www.coosbaylibrary.org.

Coos & Curry County - Their Rights Your Voice Volunteers Needed
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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.

Parkinson’s Support Group at CB Public Library
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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

STEAM Club for Girls: Go for Launch! Event
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COOS BAY, OR – Southwestern Oregon Community College invites 5th to 12th grade students to join us for "STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) Club for Girls: Go for Launch!" on Tuesday, January 28, 2025. This science-immersion event will be from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm in Umpqua Hall, on the Coos Campus, 1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay. This is a FREE program.

Students will engage with professors in hands-on activities across multiple scientific disciplines to explore how different fields of science work together to complete a mission to send astronauts into space.

Activities will include working alongside the College’s SPEAR Student Researchers, who are involved in various STEAM projects. There will also be an opportunity to experience the planetarium show “Apollo & Beyond – Conquering Gravity” in our new Discovery Dome Planetarium. This digital theater space immerses students in a show that takes them on an adventure.

The STEAM Club for Girls focuses on supporting and encouraging girls through their STEAM educational journey. We also share books, podcasts, and other helpful resources focused on girls in science. Girls who participate in this program can stay connected online where we continue to mentor and share quarterly news and activities with them.

STEAM education projects help students visualize career pathways in science, technology, engineering, and math. The “A” adds in the arts, such as humanities, dance, drama, visual arts, and design. When people learn in all these areas together, they gain soft skills that can help grow ability in out-of-the-box thinking and collaboration.

Register soon as spots are limited. For more information on this event, registration, and other upcoming events, contact Krystal Hopper Meyers, STEAM Pathways Assistant, at 541-888-7416, or krystal.hopper@socc.edu.

Coos Play Group Meets at Coos Bay Public Library
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The Coos Bay Public Library is hosting a weekly playtime Fridays from 10-11am through the end of 2024 for parents or caregivers and children under the age of 5.  The informal group will meet in the Children and Families Section of the Library and will give parents and caregivers and young children to socialize and play.

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.

The Dolphin Playhouse Unveils a Magical Aladdin Panto Filled with Humor, High-Tech Twists, and Holiday Cheer
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This December, The Dolphin Players invite you to join in the fun with Aladdin, the fifth annual holiday Panto in a cherished tradition. Running weekends from December 6 to December 22, Aladdin will enchant audiences with a fresh, comedic take on the beloved story – complete with a magic-performing monkey, two genies, and a mysterious pyramid appearing once every 1,000 years!

Co-directors Peg Boots and Alice Carlson, the dynamic team behind all five Dolphin pantos, are thrilled to bring Aladdin to life this year. According to Boots, the production is an exciting opportunity to showcase new technology and equipment funded by recent grants. Boots states, “With the expertise of our technical director Kiras, we’re able to incorporate AI and upgraded equipment” which will surely add an extra layer of magic to the production.

This unique version of Aladdin stays true to the traditional English “pantomime” style, bringing broad humor, sight gags, physical comedy, and lots of audience participation, a bit of Monty Python meets A Thousand One Nights. Expect lively music, jokes that hit both high and low notes, and a festive atmosphere that’s become a hallmark of The Dolphin Playhouse’s holiday shows.

This year’s production features familiar faces beloved by Playhouse audiences. Ariel Hicks returns, following her roles in The 39 Steps and as Belle in last year’s panto, to bring new life to the character of the Genie of the Lamp. Amber Nichole, also seen in The 39 Steps and Panto, plays Jasmine’s mother, the Empress. Alex Baugh, a Panto staple, joins the fun once again as the Princess Jasmine, and Quinn Ryan, who began her Playhouse journey at age six, celebrates her third Panto alongside her seven-year-old brother in his Playhouse debut.

The title role of Aladdin is played by Toby Dresser, a frequent performer in summer Salutes and Shakespeare in the Park. Kevin Goss, last seen in Sherwood, continues his tradition of playing villains as he tries to gain control of the lamp. In a special debut, the Playhouse is thrilled to welcome board president JoyMcCarthy to her first Panto performance, although she has appeared in many previous Dolphin productions!

Don’t miss the chance to experience Aladdin in this exciting, tech-enhanced production that’s perfect for all ages! Curtain time is 7:00 pm on Friday and Saturday, and 2:00 pm on Sundays. Tickets are $12 for general admission, $10 for seniors and students, $8 for children under 12, and $25 for a family of two adults and up to three children. December 7 is Pay What You Can, with admission by donation. Tickets are available through thedolphinplayhouse.com or by calling 541-808-2611.

Join Us in Making a Difference
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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.

Fosters Urgently Needed for Friends of Coos County Animals
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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.

OCHS Paw-Liday Store
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Santa Paws and his elves are hard at work preparing for Oregon Coast Humane Society’s PAW-liday Store. The annual event is a Florence favorite and opens for the season on November 1st. This year’s PAW-liday Store is located at 1179 Bay Street, next to the OCHS Thrift Store, and open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“The PAW-liday Store is our last live fundraiser of the year. We save seasonal items all year long to make this event extra special for our customers and friends,” said OCHS Executive Director Elizabeth Thompson.

As expected, there is no shortage of merchandise this year. Thompson shared that there are lots of vintage and specialty items, and that they’re adding in more gift items to make it a one-stop shopping experience for their customers.

Holiday shoppers will be greeted on opening day by one of Santa’s furry helpers to thank them for their purchases that help wagging tails. Photos with Santa are also being planned at locations throughout Florence so that animal parents can bring their furry family members for pictures.

A schedule of events will be posted on the website and Facebook pages for the thrift store and shelter, and Thompson encourages local businesses or organizations that can host an event to contact her directly.

The PAW-liday Store is volunteer-powered, so all proceeds go directly to the care of the animals at the shelter. A giving tree will also be available for community members who wish to buy gifts for shelter dogs and cats. There are still volunteer opportunities available at the PAW-liday Store, and donations of holiday items and general merchandise are accepted year-round during regular thrift store hours. Call 541-997-4277 for more information.

Oregon Coast Humane Society is a nonprofit, limited-intake shelter that promotes a lifetime commitment to pets. Visit us online at oregoncoasthumanesociety.org or call 541-997-4277.

Memory Café Being Offered In Coos And Curry County
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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.

Southwestern calls for Distinguished Alumni nominations
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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

South Slough Reserve Activities
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Unless otherwise noted, all programs begin at the South Slough Reserve Visitor Center, located 4 miles south of Charleston on Seven Devils Road. Programs may be cancelled due to low enrollment or hazardous weather. Activity fees and donations help support youth education programs. Reservations are required for all programs. For more information or to register for a class, please visit: southsloughestuary.org, select Learning, and then Community Classes. Questions? Please contact Eric Dean, Education Specialist at 541-888-5558 Ext. 126 for assistance.

Fall Mushroom Workshop 11/9/2024 10:00 AM

​Discover the world of mushrooms with local expert John Schaefer. Learn how to identify at least 15 local mushroom species and techniques for mushroom hunting. This workshop takes place indoors and along trails, so please dress for the weather and wear sturdy hiking shoes. Please bring a basket and knife for collecting. [Max-20 participants] ($20/person)

A Glimpse into the Life of a Bumble Bee Queen 11/16/2024 11:00 AM

​Come enjoy a presentation by Xerces Ambassador David Kollen about bumble bee origins and ecology, threats they face and conservation efforts we can all do. FREE

Nature Movie: Squirrel's Guide to Success 11/16/2024 1:00 PM

Uncover the extraordinary abilities of these cheeky nut lovers as the world’s top squirrel scientists make groundbreaking discoveries from the brainy fox squirrel who can remember the location of 9,000 nuts, to the acrobatic gray squirrel whose tree-top leaps are the basis of new designs in robotics. Popcorn and light refreshments provided. FREE. Join us after the film for a chance to stretch your legs and explore the flora and fauna of the Reserve. The 1.5 mile loop is well maintained and relatively flat. FREE

Birds on the Estuary 11/20/2024 1:00 PM

​Explore the shores of Charleston in search of winged wildlife. Interpreter, binoculars and spotting scopes provided. Meet at the Charleston Visitors Center [Max-15 participants] FREE

Birding at Millicoma Marsh 11/27/2024 10:00 AM

Come enjoy great views of the bay and one of the best birding spots in Coos County. Interpreter, binoculars and spotting scopes provided. Dress for the weather. Meet in the parking lot directly behind Millicoma Middle School on 4th Ave. [Max-15 participants] FREE

Fall Mushrooms Workshop 12/7/2024 10:00 AM

Discover the world of mushrooms with local expert John Schaefer. Learn how to identify at least 15 local mushroom species and techniques for mushroom hunting. This workshop takes place indoors and along trails, so please dress for the weather and wear sturdy hiking shoes. Please bring a basket and knife for collecting. [Max-20 participants] ($20/person)

Introduction to Crabbing 12/11/2024 2:00 PM

​Come learn about the amazing life cycle of crabs, their importance to the local economy and the various techniques for capturing this delectable Crustacean. Dress for the weather and meet at the Charleston Visitor Center. FREE

Birds on the Estuary 12/18/2024 10:00 AM

​Explore the shores of Charleston in search of winged wildlife. Interpreter, binoculars and spotting scopes provided. Meet at the Charleston Visitors Center [Max-15 participants] FREE

Birding at Millicoma Marsh - Welcome to Winter 12/21/2024 10:00 AM

Come enjoy great views of the bay and one of the best birding spots in Coos County. Interpreter, binoculars and spotting scopes provided. Dress for the weather. Meet in the parking lot directly behind Millicoma Middle School on 4th Ave. [Max-15 participants] FREE

Nature Movie: Charlie and the Curious Otters 12/28/2024 1:00 PM

This action packed documentary by otter conservationist and wildlife filmmaker Charlie James follows the trials and tribulations

of three inquisitive river otter orphans in Wisconsin along with comical encounters he experienced around the world. Learn about their unique adaptations and powerful physical abilities that have enabled the 13 species of otters to survive centuries of hardships and the latest threats from global climate change. Popcorn and light provided. FREE

Preschool Art Program
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The Coos Bay Public Library will offer a monthly hands-on preschool art program for young artist 3-6 years old the third Thursday of every month at 10:00am from October through January (November 21, December 19, and January 16). 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.

South Coast Head Start is Now Enrolling
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South Coast Head Start is accepting applications for our FREE preschool and Early Head Start program for qualifying families for the 2024-2025 program year! We offer a fun, researched-based curriculum; free and healthy meals; and child development, nutrition, and health screenings with follow-up support for all enrolled children. No potty-training required! Our services are for pregnant participants to children age 5. Call us today at 541-888-3717 and ask for enrollment. Or visit us at our Facebook and Instagram page: South Coast Head Start. Priority is given to Homeless children, Foster children, and children with disabilities.

Healthy Living - Community Events
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The Age Cafe: Third Friday of each month from 10am-noon at the Bandon Public Library. Lively conversations with fellow community members featuring discussion topics centered around aging well. For ages 19-99+. Next event, Dec 20.

Healthy Living - Classes
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Calm in the Storm: Learn breathing techniques and grounding exercises. Thurs, Dec 12 6-8pm at the Coos Bay Public Library.

Breastfeeding Class: Dec 18th 6-8pm in the Myrtle room at Bay Area Hospital. Register by calling MOMS program at 541-269-8258.

Healthy Living - Support Groups
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Handling the Holidays Bereavement Group: Nov 14th-Jan 1st 4-6pm at South Coast Hospice. This group will help participants find ways to move forward, make new lasting memories, learn coping skills, and receive support from others dealing with the same reality. Call Mia at 541-269-2986 to register or for more info.

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: Are you, a loved one or friend living with Parkinson’s disease? You are not alone. Join to share, learn & connect. 2nd Thurs/month, 1-2:30p, at CB Fire Dept, 450 Elrod, CB. Info: Aaron 541-808-1336.

Open Men's Group: Every Mon from 6-8pm at the Coos Bay Library. Free, Confidential, Facilitated. Imagine a circle of brothers where you're invited to share your truth, clarify your vision for the life you want, gain the tools you need for action, find your strength, and hold yourself accountable.

Healthy Living - Exercise & Outdoor Recreation
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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. More Info: Join the Park Pack of Coos Bay & North Bend Facebook Group or call 541-252-9400

Community Yoga: at the Coos Bay Public Library. Every Mon from 5:30-6:30pm.

Topits Park Walking Group: Monday 10-11am. Meet at parking lot.

NB Senior Center Activities: Tues: Tai Chi 9a-10a; Qigong class 10:15a-10:45a; Smart Recovery 7p-8p; Zumba/Senior Strength Building 11a-12p; Wed: Chair Yoga, 9:30a-10:30a. Thurs: Tai Chi 9a-10p. Fri: Zumba & Strength Building, 10a-11a. North Bend Senior Center, 1470 Airport Ln, North Bend.

Virtual Chair and Mat Yoga Classes: Mon, Tues, Wed and Thurs at 9am. Chair classes on Mon and Thurs are followed by a mat class. Tues and Wed are mat only classes. (Instructor takes the last full week off each month). Zoom link here: https://tinyurl.com/ye27pnkw

Free Dance & Fitness Class: Mondays 9-10:30am. Fun- paced exercise. New dancers welcome. At North Bend Senior Center, 1470 Airport Ln, North Bend.

Laughter Yoga: at the Curry Public Library. Learn fun practices to exercise and connect socially. Participate seated or standing. Drop-ins welcome. Dec 15 from 12p-1:30p.

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