Contributed by: Bay Area Chamber of Commerce

Last year, our community and local businesses showed up BIG for the highly anticipated return of the Bay Area Home Show—hosted in an exciting new venue inside and outside the welcoming spaces of Pony Village Mall. Building on that incredible momentum, the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce Home Show Committee is once again hard at work planning the next Home Show, and it’s already off to a fantastic start with commitments from over 50 vendors and counting!

A special thank-you goes to our main title sponsor, Primal Property Management. We are truly grateful for their support, along with all of our generous sponsors, who help make it possible to bring this vibrant, community-centered event back year after year.

The 2026 Bay Area Home Show will take place April 24–26, 2026, at Pony Village Mall, located at 1611 Virginia Avenue in North Bend. This exciting three-day event will feature an impressive variety of exhibitors, including home improvement specialists, lawn care professionals, contractors, home experts, realtors, mortgage lenders, boating and RV vendors, and much more.

But that’s not all—there’s even more to enjoy! In addition to the wide range of vendors, the Home Show will include engaging activities throughout the weekend designed to bring the community together. Outside in the parking lot, attendees can explore additional vendors, enjoy delicious food trucks, and gather under the event tent.

The weekend kicks off on Friday with a ribbon cutting and a Chamber After Hours Mixer. Saturday is Family Day, and yes—even the family dog is welcome! On Sunday, we will honor our Veterans, Seniors, and First Responders, with a special ceremony currently in the works.

Mark your calendars for April 24–26, 2026, and join us for a fun-filled weekend celebrating community, home and garden inspiration, and those who serve. Each day offers something unique and exciting for everyone to enjoy.

Event Hours & Themes:

Friday, April 24 | 4:00–6:00 PM – Opening Day & Chamber After Hours Mixer

Saturday, April 25 | 9:00 AM–6:00 PM – Family Day

Sunday, April 26 | 10:00 AM–4:00 PM – Honoring Veterans, First Responders & Seniors

Thank you to our sponsors: Primal Property Management, NW Natural, Ko-Kwel Resort - Coos Bay, Ziply Fiber, Builders First Source, Banner Bank, Addcox Heating & Air Conditioning, Perry’s Electric & Plumbing Supply, Roto Rooter, City of Coos Bay,  KTMR TV Channel 16, Bigfoot Beverages, Coos County Board of Realtors, BiCoastal Media, and the South Coast Shopper.

COOS BAY, OR – The Southwestern Oregon Community College Library, in partnership with the College’s Agroecology program, is thrilled to announce the launch of our new Seed Library! A free initiative designed to empower local residents to grow their own food and maintain thriving gardens.

Located in the SWOCC Library on the Coos Campus, 1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay, second floor of Tioga Hall, the Seed Library offers a diverse selection of vegetable, herb, and flower seeds, many of which are specifically suited to our unique coastal growing conditions, making it easy for anyone to start or expand their home gardens.

The Seed Library aims to support food security and biodiversity, foster community connections, and provide educational opportunities in gardening and seed-saving, all while inspiring a deeper appreciation for gardening and nature along the beautiful Oregon coast.

How It Works

Like borrowing books, patrons can “check out” seeds from the library’s collection for free. Visitors may select up to five seed packets per visit.

Borrow: Choose from a diverse selection of seeds.

Grow: Plant, nurture, and enjoy your harvest.

Return (optional but encouraged): Save seeds from your plants and return them to the library to help sustain the collection for future seasons. Donations of unopened or resealed commercial seed packets are also welcome.

Educational Resources

We are here to help you grow! The SWOCC Library supports gardeners of all levels with a wide selection of books on gardening, seed saving, and agriculture. Our Agroecology program offers hands-on classes such as Gardening the South Coast, Applied Plant Biology, and Soil Science. In the future, the library plans to offer free workshops on seed saving and germination.

Get Involved

Visit the SWOCC Library to explore the seed collection and join the effort to grow a resilient, connected, and sustainable South Coast. Everyone can play a role in developing local gardens and strengthening our community food system.

For more information on the SWOCC Library visit: https://www.socc.edu/resources/library/.

In late 2025, Carnegie Corporation of New York announced that Carnegie Libraries across America would each receive a $10,000 gift to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. As an original Carnegie Library, the Coos Bay Public Library is pleased to be one of the recipients.

Scottish immigrant Andrew Carnegie funded the construction of 1,681 free public libraries in the United States between 1886 and 1917. As part of the Carnegie Libraries 250 special initiative, his philanthropic foundation reached out to each library and established that about 1,280 still operate and acknowledge their link to Carnegie, making them eligible for the celebratory gift. Approximately 750 of them continue to use their original buildings, while others have moved to new locations. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of The Progress Club, Coos Bay’s Carnegie Library opened in 1914. The library has since moved but the original building still stands.

The funds will be used to support programming and materials that celebrate the 250th anniversary and other activities that benefit the community.

“Our founder, Andrew Carnegie, who championed the free public library movement of the late 19th century, described libraries as ‘cradles of democracy’ that ‘strengthen the democratic idea, the equality of the citizen, and the royalty of man,’” said Dame Louise Richardson, president of Carnegie and former head of the University of Oxford. “We still believe this and are delighted to celebrate our connection to the libraries he founded.”

Coos Bay Library will host a variety of events observing the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence starting with Founding Ideologies: Why American Colonists Protested and Declared Independence, a talk by Dr. Paul Otto. Watch the library event calendar coosbaylibrary.org/events/month for more events.

Contributed By: South Coast Health Equity Coalition

We are inviting community members and  partners to join us as volunteers for the Courageous Conversations Conference: Advancing Justice, Healing & Community Transformation.

This is more than volunteering. It is an opportunity to help co-create a space rooted in connection, truth-telling, and collective care while supporting meaningful dialogue and community-led change.

Gold Beach: April 10–11

Coos Bay: April 15–16

Volunteer Roles Include:

• Registration & Welcome

• Room Support & Flow

• Speaker Support

• Info Table & Wayfinding

• Flexible Support (Runners)

Volunteers will:

• Attend the conference for free

• Receive training and support

• Be provided meals during their shift

• Gain experience in community-centered event work

• Help create an inclusive and accessible space

We are looking for folks who care about community, can show up with respect and presence, and want to support spaces for learning, healing, and growth.

Sign up here: https://forms.office.com/r/Qcu49iNzrs

Questions? jayden@southcoastequity.org

We would love to have you be part of building something bold, grounded, and rooted in community.

The Coos Bay Public Library is starting a new book club! If your idea of a good book means magical swords and epic quests or journeys through space and contact with alien creatures, then this book club is for you! Join us for a Sci Fi/Fantasy book club that will focus on books that are fun and fantastic. Book club members will vote on which books they want to read next and then we will gather online to discuss them. That's right, this book club is online so you can attend from the comfort of your own home! So, find a cozy spot and enjoy talking to other Fantasy and Science Fiction lovers while getting ideas for your next reads!

This book club is virtual and will meet via Zoom the first Tuesday of every month from 5:45-6:45pm. Meeting links will be emailed out before the meeting. Registration is required at tinyurl.com/2pb4d7j6. Open to Teens and Adults age 16+.

Come spend a couple of hours with the Oregon Bay Area Beautification (OBAB) group and Southwestern Oregon Community College (SWOCC) to help beautify the trail system on the campus. The 2nd Saturday cleanup will be on Saturday, April, 11, 2026.

Volunteers will meet at parking lot #2 behind Tioga Hall on N College Way on the SWOCC campus in Coos Bay. The clean up effort is from 1pm-3pm, with sign-ins starting at 12:45pm. Clean up focus will be litter removal and invasive plant removal. Please dress appropriately for working outdoors. Bring, work gloves, cutting tools for invasives, trash grabbers if you have them, water, and sunscreen. Trash bags and the disposal will be taken care of.

This is a kids and family friendly event. Youth under 18 need to have a release form signed by parent/guardian. Kids 14 and under will need adult supervision. Contact OBAB for details.

Join OBAB for Community Cleanups every 2nd Saturday starting from January-October 2026. Visit 4obab.org to see the full schedule and updates. Look for OBAB on Facebook and Instagram. Email volunteer@4obab.org for more info.

Oregon Bay Area Beautification (OBAB) is a registered and approved 501 (c) (3) organization.

The Langlois Lions Club is once again hosting “Get Rockin’ in Langlois,” a small-town fair for rock enthusiasts and beach lovers, on Saturday, April 11, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Lions Club, 48136 Floras Lake Loop. Last year’s event was a huge success and the first of its kind in southern Oregon, drawing strong crowds thanks to its welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.

Admission is free, with donations appreciated or the option to purchase raffle tickets. Children will receive a free agate upon entry. The raffle features items donated by local businesses, artisans, Art by the Sea, and event vendors, with two winners and two baskets this year.

Featured speakers include Geoff Ogle and Matt Vegar presenting a rock identification tutorial from 9 to 10 a.m., Kent Gibson, a nationally recognized fossil expert and Katherine Palmer Award recipient, sharing “My Fossil Journey” from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., and Cody Easom leading a rock tumbling discussion from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Experts will be available all day to help identify rocks and fossils.

New this year is Danielle from Cliffstone and Gems in Winchester Bay, offering expertise and games for kids. Calvin Davis of Far West Lapidary will demonstrate cabochon cutting, with additional members participating as vendors.

Enjoy homemade doughnuts and cookies from Spoon Café, along with beverages. Lunch will feature an outdoor barbecue fundraiser benefiting the local volunteer fire district.

For updates, follow “Rockin’ in Langlois” on Facebook or contact D. McDermott at 541-348-2507 or 541-251-1530.

The North Bend Public Library is excited to partner with the Museum of Natural and Cultural History to bring “Oregon’s Dino-Story Exhibit” to North Bend this spring. The interactive exhibit will be on display in the Children’s Room from Monday, March 23 through Saturday, April 11.

“Oregon’s Dino-Story Exhibit” uncovers the mysteries of Oregon during the age of the dinosaurs, inviting children and families to explore fossil evidence, dig deep into prehistoric time, and learn what truly makes a dinosaur a dinosaur. Designed to spark curiosity and discovery, the exhibit offers hands-on learning opportunities for children of all ages.

All exhibit activities are free and open to the public.

The North Bend Public Library is inviting the community to think small and create big for its first-ever Tiny Art Show and Gala, featuring artwork made by local artists of all ages.

Throughout the month of April, participants can create original artwork measuring no larger than 3”x3” using their own supplies or a mini art kit provided by the Library. Art kits will be available at the Library beginning Wednesday, April 1, while supplies last.

Completed artwork must be submitted to the Library by Friday, April 24. The Tiny Art Show will be displayed in the library throughout the month of May, showcasing the creativity of the North Bend community in miniature form.

To celebrate the exhibit, the library will host a Tiny Art Gala on Friday, May 22 at 4:00 PM. Artists and art enthusiasts are invited to dress up and enjoy an afternoon celebrating the creativity on display. Beverages and light snacks will be provided as guests enjoy the exhibit in style.

The Tiny Art Show and Gala are free and open to the public.

COOS BAY, OR – Southwestern Oregon Community College (SWOCC) is accepting applications for its Fall 2026 Diesel Mechanic Technology program at www.socc.edu/dieselmechanic. Launched in Fall 2025 to meet a need for skilled mechanics, the program is gaining momentum with strong backing from local employers and community partners.

Offered on the Coos Campus (1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay), the program provides hands-on, career-focused training for students preparing for high-demand jobs in trucking, maritime, forestry, and other industries. In its first year, the program attracted strong student engagement and saw early success.

“We’re doing a lot more than just sitting in a classroom. Students get hands-on training with specialized tools and modern diesel systems in a professional shop,” said Terry Cheyne, program lead and longtime diesel mechanic. “They are learning what it really takes to keep trucks, boats and heavy equipment running. There’s real pride in this work, and a big need for it around here. It’s work that matters. This program gives people a shot at a good paycheck and solid future.”

Applications are open now through May 14, 2026. Space is limited, and applicants are encouraged to apply early. SWOCC also offers scholarships and support services to help students succeed, including help for students receiving SNAP benefits through the STEP program:

Scholarships: www.socc.edu/scholarships

STEP (SNAP Training & Employment Program) and Basic Needs: www.socc.edu/resources/snap-step

The College is building a new diesel training shop to support program growth and enhance hands-on lab-based instruction. It is scheduled to open Fall 2026.

To learn more and apply, visit www.socc.edu/dieselmechanic. For questions, contact Charline Meyer, LIFT Project Coordinator/Advisor, at charline.meyer@socc.edu or 541-888-1545.

This spring, the Chetco Community Public Library invites the community to take part in One Book, One Coast, a shared reading initiative connecting more than 130 library systems across Oregon, California, and Washington.

As the largest book club on the West Coast, One Book, One Coast brings readers together around one book to create opportunities for conversation, reflection, and meaningful connection across neighborhoods, cities, and state lines.

The Chetco Library and its partners will read and discuss They Called Us Enemy by George Takei, Steven Scott, and Justin Eisinger and illustrated by Harmony Becker. Extra physical copies of the book will be available to borrow as early as March 23 and unlimited digital copies of the eBook will be available from April 1 through June 6 on the Libby app by Overdrive. Through this shared reading experience, communities are encouraged to explore themes of identity, patriotism, family, loyalty, and resilience while strengthening connections through dialogue and learning.

"There is something incredibly moving about a hundred communities reading the same words at the same time,” says Katlyn Liddell, Assistant Director. “Reading George Takei’s memoir feels particularly resonant right now. Our town has a unique tradition of looking past conflict to find our common humanity in the aftermath of war and conflict, and I believe this book will spark the kind of honest, heartfelt conversations that Brookings is known for. I invite everyone to pick up a copy and join us in this journey of dialog and connection."

How to Participate

Community members may borrow physical copies of They Called Us Enemy from the Chetco Library as early as March 23.

From April 1 through June 6, unlimited digital copies of the eBook in English and Spanish will be available through the Libby app by OverDrive. The eBook is also available on-demand in English on the Library’s hoopla app for Chetco Library cardholders.

The Chetco Library will also lead a community book discussion at Chetco Brewing at 5:30pm in Brookings on May 27, along with additional smaller events and take-home activities throughout the spring.

Residents are encouraged to visit chetcolibrary.org/OBOC2026 for more information and a full listing of events and activities.

About the Book

They Called Us Enemy is a powerful graphic memoir by George Takei that reflects on civil liberties, democracy, and what it means to be American — both historically and today.

Author Talk with George Takei

To close the program, George Takei will appear for a special author talk and book signing on Sunday, May 31 at 2 pm at East Los Angeles Library. The event will be livestreamed on YouTube, allowing readers across the region to participate together, and the Chetco Library will present a free watch party of the live author talk in partnership with Chetco Brewing at 830 Railroad St in Brookings. A link to the livestream will be shared with the community in the coming months as well.

The Coos Bay Public Library will offer a monthly hands-on preschool art program for young artists 0-6 years old the third Thursday of every month from 10:00-11:00 am (March 19, April 18, May 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.

Join us for the Teen Crafts Afterschool at the Coos Bay Public Library twice a month on Wednesdays. Each week will feature a different craft, and teens who wish to socialize and work on their own crafts with the given supplies are invited to join as well. All supplies provided and no experience necessary.

Please visit the program calendar on our website more information on this event and others at https://www.coosbaylibrary.org/events or contact the library by calling (541) 269-1101.

Our local court of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas, Our Lady of the Sea, Court #2405, will once again be offering a scholarship to 2 women, age 25 years old or older; this year the amount will be $2,500 each.

Applicants must be a resident of the Oregon south coast, from Florence to Brookings and plan on registering for classes in the fall of 2026 or use the scholarship within 2 academic years (Sept-June). The scholarship funds can be used for tuition, special fees or books at a college of any level or vocational school. There is no restriction of race or religion.

Applications are available at Holy Redeemer, parish office and St Monica's parish office or applicants can contact Susan Kulick at 541-297-0552. Applications must be completed and submitted by April 15th 2026.

Contributed by: Furry Friends Therapy Dogs

If your dog loves attention and is friendly with people and other dogs, Furry Friends Therapy Dogs, Inc. offers the opportunity to give your dog an outlet for it’s natural inclinations. We are always in search of new volunteers to help us serve the communities we visit monthly in Coos County.

We visit nursing homes, assisted living and skilled nursing facilities, hospitals, schools etc., sharing our dogs with people who sometimes don’t have another visitor all month. The experience is rewarding for everyone involved, sharing smiles and love with our dogs. The steps to take to become one of us, and how to contact us, is shared below:

1. Pass the Canine Good Citizen Test with your dog, composed of basic commands (like come, sit, stay, etc), being approached and touched by a stranger, some distractions and a brief separation.

2. Three evaluation visits with another team (dog/handler), at three different facilities, with three different Board members evaluating, usually scheduling one or two per month.

3. After the three successful evaluations, you and your dog will get Furry Friends vests and name tags, and you will be able to choose one or more regular visits from our monthly calendar each month. We go in pairs (2 teams) to these visits, so you’ll always have an experienced team to work with as you start out.

4. We currently visit residents/patients at most care facilities and hospitals in Coos County. Some are in Bandon, Coquille and Myrtle Point. Most are currently scheduled during the daytime on weekdays and Saturdays.

To contact us: call 541-267-7427 or email to furryfriendsvisits@gmail.com or text to 541-297-3766.

Presented by Oregon NASA Space Grant Consortium (OSGC) and SWOCC STEAM Pathways

COOS BAY, OR – Southwestern Oregon Community College invites the community to join us on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, to attend “Blast Off into STEM!”, a free science fair featuring judges from the community and the College. All ages are welcome to view the projects. Student participation is limited to students from grades 4 - 12 within Oregon’s 4th Congressional District.

The fair will be held in the Lakeview Meeting Rooms located in the Hales Center for the Performing Arts/Empire Hall on Southwestern’s Coos Campus, 1988 Newmark Ave, Coos Bay, Oregon.

Student participants can register for the science fair at https://tinyurl.com/yh8cvcs3

About the Science Fair:

This is the first year of an exciting community event that celebrates curiosity, hands-on learning, and student innovation. This year’s science fair will feature projects from students across Oregon’s 4th Congressional District, including Benton, Coos, Curry, northern Douglas, Lane, and Lincoln counties. Students in grades 4 - 12 will present projects exploring scientific concepts in fields such as biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science, engineering, and technology.

Student Participants are encouraged to investigate real-world questions, conduct experiments, explore their curiosity and creativity over several weeks leading up to the showcase.

Attendees will have the opportunity to:

• View interactive exhibits and student demonstrations

• Speak with young scientists about their work

• Celebrate award winners in each grade category

• Engage in hands-on STEM activities provided by teachers and community partners

Attendance at the science fair is open to families, community members, and organizations interested in supporting STEM education and student achievement.

All student participants may receive certificates recognizing their creativity and effort. Additional awards may be provided through in-kind donations such as educational materials, gift cards, or event supplies. Monetary donations cannot be accepted. Those interested in contributing may contact sabrina.pingree@email.socc.edu by May 2, 2026.

For more information contact the event organizers: Cassie Coyner, STEAM Pathways Assistant, at 541-888-7416, or cassie.coyner@socc.edu, and Sabrina Pingree, OSGC Student Ambassador at sabrina.pingree@email.socc.edu.

To learn more about STEM degrees at Southwestern visit: https://www.socc.edu/programs-classes/stem/.

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.

Registration forms are now available for the 22nd annual “Fertilize Your Mind” garden seminar set for Saturday, April 11, 2026, at The Ko-Kwel Casino Resort.

This year’s keynote speaker will be Carole Hardy, OSU Metro Master Gardener. Her keynote presentation will be “Restoring Garden Ecosystems to Create Resilience”.

Following the keynote presentation will be three class sessions, each with a selection of three informative classes to choose from, presented by experienced and practical speakers. Topics include: “Indoor Plants” “Designing Gardens Using Native Plants” “Vegetable Gardening on the South Coast” “Rainwater Collection” “Red Wiggler Worms: Vermicomposting” “Seed Saving” “Pollinator Pathways” “Shade Plants for Your Yard” and “Raised Beds”. Local nurseries, landscape companies and other businesses will display goods and services in the lobby for perusal throughout the day, while the Master Gardeners will staff a Plant Clinic table to answer gardening questions during breaks and the lunch period. A selection of free gardening/seed catalogs will also be available.

The early bird registration fee of $45 includes the keynote address, three lecture sessions, and lunch will be included again this year. If you register after March 24th, the cost goes up to $60. To register, contact the Coos County Extension Office at 541-572-5263, stop by the OSU Extension office at 631 Alder St. in Myrtle Point, or register online at https://beav.es/qCR. You may also register the morning of the event, beginning at 8:00 a.m., but class selections may be limited and will be $60.

This seminar is sponsored by the Coos County Oregon State University Extension Service, the Coos County Master Gardener AssociationTM, and generous grants from Rotary Coos, and Coquille Rotary Club. Direct any questions to Master Gardener Coordinator Samantha Clayburn at 541-572-5263, ext. 25299 or Samantha.clayburn@oregonstate.edu

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.

No long-term commitment.

Food is covered.

Vet bills are covered.

You provide a loving home.

Foster support.

Pet respite if needed.

Reward: unconditional love.

Apply Today: FOCCAS.net

The Coos Odyssey 2026 challenge has begun. The Coos County Friends of Public Health is hosting this fundraising event which lasts from January 1 st to April 15, 2026. Participants “travel” around Coos County to track their actual exercise activities on the virtual route of 253 miles. Participants can exercise in a number of different ways to earn miles, e.g., walking, biking, running, swimming, pickleball, bowling, yoga, and dance. Joining a team with friends, family or colleagues can help with motivation to maintain daily exercise and finish the course.

Registration is now open at ccfoph.org. Cost to participate is $20 (plus a $2.00 signup fee), and the proceeds will help Coos County families in need through the Nurses’ Purse fund at Coos Health and Wellness. To date, the sponsors supporting this fundraising event are Banner Bank, Bigfoot Beverages, Coos History Museum, Pacific Power, 7 Devils Brewing Co., South Coast Striders, and the Wild Coast Running Co.

Two locations. Four days. One shared commitment to truth-telling, healing, and community power.

Curry County (Gold Beach): April 10–11, 2026

Coos County (Coos Bay): April 15–16, 2026

Southwestern Oregon — The South Coast Health Equity Coalition (SCHEC) is proud to announce the 2026 Courageous Conversations Conference, a two-part regional gathering centering racial justice, truth-telling, healing, and collective action across Oregon’s South Coast.

The conference will take place in Gold Beach (Curry County) on April 10–11 at the Curry Public Library, and in Coos Bay (Coos County) on April 15–16 at Ko’kwel Casino & RV Park / The Mill Casino. This year’s conference brings together community members, educators, advocates, service providers, youth leaders, and partners committed to building a South Coast where everyone can live with dignity, safety, and belonging.

Registration Links:

Gold Beach (Curry County) — April 10 & 11

Curry Public Library

Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-courageous-conversations-conference-tickets1981832413097?aff=oddtdtcreator

Coos Bay (Coos County) — April 15 & 16

Ko’kwel Casino & RV Park / The Mill Casino

Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-courageous-conversations-conference-tickets1981833873465?aff=oddtdtcreator

The Courageous Conversations Conference is rooted in SCHEC’s mission to increase capacity for sustained well-being, leadership, and self-advocacy among institutionally underserved populations in Southwestern Oregon. Through workshops, panels, community storytelling, and skill-building spaces,

participants will explore how health equity is shaped by history, policy, and the social conditions that impact our daily lives.

“We know that courageous conversations are not just about learning—they are about truth, accountability, healing, and building power together,” said Jayden Ruff, Executive Director of the South Coast Health Equity Coalition. “In a time when communities are being targeted and histories are being erased, we are creating space for people on the South Coast to come together, build relationships, and strengthen the conditions for collective well-being.”

SCHEC is deeply grateful to the sponsors and partners who have made this conference possible, including: Oregon Remembrance Project, Oregon Office of Rural Health, Oregon Department of Human Services, Kairos, Southern Oregon Coast Pride, Rural Organizing Project, Northwest American Indian Coalition, Seeding Justice, HIV Alliance, Oregon Food Bank, Curry Public Library, South Coast Reproductive Justice Project, and the Oregon Health Authority

About SCHEC

The South Coast Health Equity Coalition (SCHEC) is a community-rooted organization serving Coos and Curry Counties in Southwestern Oregon. SCHEC’s vision is healthy communities throughout Southwestern Oregon, and its mission is to increase capacity for sustained well-being, leadership, and self-advocacy among institutionally underserved populations. Guided by values of respect, listening, accessibility, integrity, humility, cost-effectiveness, and partnership, SCHEC works alongside community members and local partners to strengthen connection, reduce barriers to participation, and support coordinated, community-led solutions that advance health and belonging across the region.

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.

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

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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The Coos Bay Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) is calling on all World War II veterans to be celebrated on their birthdays. As a token of gratitude for their service and sacrifices, the DAR seeks to celebrate these heroes' milestones with special recognition.

Veterans or their families are invited to submit their details by emailing DAR8NatlDefense@gmail.com. The initiative aims to acknowledge the bravery and dedication of these individuals, preserving their legacies for future generations.

“Each veteran has a unique story of courage and patriotism,” said Karry Johnson, Regent, Coos Bay DAR Chapter, “It’s our privilege to celebrate them.”

Join us in making this year memorable for our cherished WWII veterans.

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.

Age Cafe: Friday, March 20th from 10am-12pm at the Bandon Library. Lively conversations with fellow community members featuring discussion topics centered around aging well. For ages 19-99+.

American Council of the Blind of Oregon Southwest Chapter meets: Second Sat at Venture Inn Restaurant at Inland Point Retirement Community, 2265 Inland Point Dr, NB.  Lunch 11:30a, meeting noon. For more info please call 541-707-2226.

Community Cooking with the Co-Op: Coos Bay Library has teamed up with Coos Head Food Co-op to provide safe, easy, and healthy recipes to create at home. Join virtually on Zoom for this fun community event! Register for this virtual event @ https://bit.ly/3powyqG

Memory Café Coos At The North Bend Public Library: The first Wednesday of every month at 10:30am at the North Bend Public Library. A memory café is an informal social gathering for older adults living with memory loss and their care partners. Memory Café Coos is staffed by qualified healthcare providers (LCSW), library staff, and volunteers.

Empowering Your Health: Coos Bay Library has teamed up with Coos Head Food Co-op to provide safe, easy, and healthy recipes to create at home. Join virtually on Zoom for this fun community event! Register for this virtual event @ https://bit.ly/3powyqG

Mocktail Making Class: Wednesday, April 1 from 2-3:30pm. In honor of Alcohol Awareness Month, learn to create refreshing, flavorful mocktails with Katrina McReynolds.

Breastfeeding, Infant CPR, and Newborn Care Class: Saturday, March 21 from 2-6pm held in the Myrtle room at the Bay Area Hospital. Register for classes by calling 541-269-8258.

One-Day Labor Class: Sun, March 22 from 2-6pm held at the Myrtle room at Bay Area Hospital. This class is for patients over 35 weeks of gestation or later on the class date. Register for classes by calling 541-269-8258.

Women’s Wellness Group: Join us for connection, communication, and ways to care for and celebrate a woman’s ability to change and grow toward self-fulfillment in a warm and supportive environment. Come alone or bring a friend to the Woman’s Wellness Group the second Wednesday of the month from 2-3:30pm at Curry Public Library. Tea and hospitality provided. Snacks to share are welcome. The group is facilitated by Jana Rivers-Norton and is free and open to the public. Curry Public Library, 94341 3rd St, Gold Beach.

Bereavement Support Group: South Coast Hospice’s Bereavement Support Groups are open to any member of the community who has lost a loved one. Meet every other Tuesday of the month. For more information, or to register for a bereavement group, please call 541-269-2986, ask for Mia.

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.

Grief Support Group: The Grief Support Group meets on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month at 3pm at Curry Public Library

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.

Sole Mates’ Community Walk - March Trail: Ferry Road Park: Sat, March 28 at 10am. Coos Bay Public Library and the Sole Mates, will co-host Sole Mates’ Community Walk on every fourth Saturday. March walk will be held at Ferry Road Park (496 Park Ave, North Bend). Meet in parking lot.

Folk Dance Party: Friday, March 13 from 6-8pm at the North Bend Library. The North Bend Public Library is partnering with the South Coast Folk Society to present a new monthly Folk Dance Party, the second Friday of each month..  

Walk On! Gold Beach Walking Group: Join Walk On! Gold Beach. The group assembles at 10:15am at the  Curry Library to carpool to a different walking area each week or meets at another assembly point shared in advance by email; walks last about an hour. New walkers welcome. Email wamski4@yahoo.com

Virtual Chair & Mat Yoga Classes: Mon, Tues, Wed, and Thurs at 9am. Chair Classes on Mon & Thurs, followed by mat class. Tues and Wed are mat only classes. Got to www.tinyurl.com/bdh7e28w to join class.

EZ Flo Yoga with Mavis: Every Thurs from 5:30-6:30pm at Chetco community public library. For beginners and above.

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 Facebook.

Chair Yoga for Seniors: Tuesdays at 11am at Coquille Library

Community Zumba: Find your balance, strength, and inner peace. For beginners and experienced yogis alike! Bring comfortable clothing, yoga mat and a water bottle. March 14 & 28 from 9-10am and March 25 at 5:30-6:30pm at the Coos Bay Library in the Myrtlewood Room.