Foreshore Features

Cat saves owner from Juno Hill fire

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 05:29:13 GMT

Early on the morning of February 20, Tillamook Fire District and Bay City Fire were dispatched to a reported structure fire in the Juno Hill area.

Upon arrival the large, single story residence was fully involved. The homeowner was awoken by his cat and was able to escape unharmed. The residence is a total loss.

Twenty-six fire personnel were on scene for suppression. First responding partners included: Tillamook 911, Adventist Health ambulance, Garibaldi Fire, Nestucca Rural Fire and Tillamook P.U.D.

Day-use parking pass to be required at Cape Meares, Oceanside, and Bob Straub state parks

Sat, 21 Feb 2026 18:44:50 GMT

Starting March 30, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will no longer waive the parking fee at 22 day-use parks, including three in Tillamook County.

Those wishing to park at: Bob Straub State Park, Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint, and Oceanside Beach State Recreation Area will have to purchase a day-use parking permit. The cost is $10 for in-state visitors and $12 for out-of-state visitors and is valid for the entire day of purchase at any Oregon state park.

Access to parks remains free for visitors who walk, bike, or use public transportation. Visitors who drive in can show valid parking by displaying a current hangtag from camping at an Oregon State Park or a current 12 or 24-month parking permit . Visitors who purchase parking permits online or via the parking QR codes can associate their license plates with valid payment.

Currently, OPRD requires a day-use parking permit at 46 parks and waives parking fees at over 150 parks across the state. The 22 additional parks were selected based on amenities and features that require maintenance and operation such as restrooms, trails, paving, irrigation, boat ramps and more. Parking fees help pay for maintenance, operation, and keep these offerings available for all visitors.

“These updates are about protecting the experiences visitors love,” said Interim Director Stefanie Coons. “We know fee changes are tough and we truly appreciate the support from visitors. These changes help us take of things people count on like restrooms, boat ramps and trails, so we can keep parks safe, clean and welcoming for everyone.”

Oregon State Parks has three main sources of funding: a little less than half comes from constitutionally dedicated lottery funds, about 15% comes from recreational vehicle license plate fees and roughly 35% comes from park fees from visitors. It is not funded by general fund taxes.

For frequent visitors looking to save on parking, an annual parking permit is available for Oregon State Parks and can be purchased online . The 12-month parking permit costs $60 for Oregon residents. The 24-month parking permit is no longer for sale, but valid permits will be honored until they expire.

Oregon state parks with parking fees added March 30, 2026:

Agate Beach State Recreation Area
Angel’s Rest Trailhead
Banks-Vernonia State Trail
Bob Straub State Park
Brian Booth State Park
Bridal Veil Falls State Scenic Viewpoint
Cape Blanco State Park
Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint
Carl G Washburne Memorial State Park
Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area
Elijah Bristow State Park
Fogarty Creek State Recreation Area
Gleneden Beach State Recreation Area
Governor Patterson Memorial State Recreation Site
Lake Owyhee State Park
Latourell Falls Trailhead at Guy Talbot State Park
Molalla River State Park
Oceanside Beach State Recreation Area
Roads End State Recreation Site
Umpqua Lighthouse State Park
Wallowa Lake State Park
William M Tugman State Park

Three Capes Relay coming to the Coast!

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 05:06:53 GMT

In any good partnership, the load is shared and the burden is light; just like a relay. Why run a whole marathon when you can split the distance with your friends?

The Three Capes Marathon Relay is a 26.2 mile course traveling the Three Capes Scenic Loop, starting at Cape Meares Lake, passing Cape Lookout, and ending at Web County Park in Pacific City.

The rugged course, with plenty of hills, passes through or runs adjacent to six state parks, two National Wildlife Refuges, multiple Tillamook County Parks, and boasts stunning vantage points of the Tillamook Bay, Netarts Bay, and the Pacific Ocean. Local spectators are encouraged to come out and cheer participants along, but: “Caution: runners on the road!”

The course is separated into five legs which vary in distances from 4.37 miles to just under seven miles. Team categories include: family, business, school, or Clydesdale. Starting and ending at sea level, there is a significant elevation climb within the course, offering a challenging racing venue.

The course is separated into five legs which vary in distances from 4.37 miles to just under seven miles. Participants can choose between running a the race as a solo marathon, a two-person team, or a five-person team. Team categories include: family, business, school, or Clydesdale.

“If you dare to tackle this course as a two-person team or solo, times will not be fast, but the satisfaction of completion will be as grand as the view,” Race Director Patrick Zweifel said.

Cost for registration is $339 for a five-person team, $165 for a two-person team, and the solo marathoner is $95. Every participant will receive a custom Three Capes Relay Medal when crossing the finish line. Register online at threecapesrelay.com or register at packet pick-up the night before the event.

High school and middle school teams can receive a discount by using the code: "High School Runner" when registering to receive 30 percent off the team fee.

The Three Capes Marathon Relay is an event hosted by Ultimook nonprofit that supports local youth running programs and young long-distance runners develop in both mind and body.

Thompson Springs in Nehalem set to house 10 families in 2027

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 05:59:55 GMT

By Jordan Wolfe

After transforming a three-acre lot from environmental timebomb to bucolic Nehalem hideaway, non-profit Sammy’s Place is anticipating the official ground-breaking of their affordable homeownership project Thompson Springs – once the weather is more favorable.

“This is something a little outside the box,” said Sammy’s Place Executive Director Julie Chick. “Affordable housing almost is never homeownership. And it is just like any other home being sold.”

All funding is in place, around $5 million, to build 10 semi-detached homes and the infrastructure of the site, Chick said. With completion anticipated sometime in 2027, the 10 units, a mix of one- and- two-bedroom homes, will be for sale to people who meet certain income requirements.

What may be most unique about the project, according to Sammy’s Place board member Kevin Shluka, is the way the entire property is being intentionally designed with access in mind through the principles of universal design.

“There really aren’t a lot of great examples of communities like this,” Shluka said. “I would love to see this be a tempest-in-a-teapot and encourage people to consider accessibility, consider how design can be more inclusive in developments.”

One of the obstacles facing people living with intellectual or developmental disability (I/DD) is better access in homes and community spaces, according to Chick, and the planned homes will remove as many barriers as possible through seven principles of universal design. Each home is being intentionally designed to be equitable, flexible, simple and intuitive; the homes will also have: perceptible information, tolerance for error, low physical effort, size and space / approach and use configurations. These principles have led to a plan where all homes will be single-story, barrier-free, and follow specific guidelines for slightly wider doorways, wheelchair-accessible showers, and adjustable heights for cabinetry. The entire property will feature generous maneuvering space at hallways and shared paths.

“Universal design is really about a mind shift,” Chick said. “Is a little wider door any different or more expensive? Perhaps not. Is a one-level entry so that people can actually get into the building and visit each other. The disability community says, ‘My ADA unit is great, but everybody else has to come here. I can’t get in my neighbor’s door’, it’s a huge conversation in Oregon.”

On the Oregon Coast, Shluka said, developments often end up being built as second-homes and infrequently feature inclusive, rather than exclusive, design.

“This is just a shining example of what can be accomplished,” he said.

Intentional design courses through the entire Thompson Springs property and will extend to the layout of the homes and the very landscaping, resulting in a place where community will grow naturally, according to Shluka.

“The design is so important because you can really sort of determine the trajectory of a community if you are able to design in such a way that it opens opportunities for every cross-section of the population,” he said.

Shluka added the emphasis on accessibility is not just to welcome people with disability but because they want to welcome people of all ages and create a space that can support people as they age, overcome an injury, or whatever else may occur in life.

“Designing something that’s got accessibility, that’s got lots of overlap – lots of opportunity to socialize, lots of opportunities to appreciate, be surrounded by nature, feel like you’re part of nature – all those things I believe are ways that design can contribute to strong community,” Shluka said.

Sammy’s Place, a non-profit aiming to help create an Oregon Coast where everybody can fully participate and thrive in their community of choice, has a capital campaign to help buy down some units for low-income families and/or individuals that need financial support. Chick said the board of Sammy’s Place has a priority to help get the mortgages even lower.

Sammy’s Place is partnering with Proud Ground, a land trust, to ensure permanent affordability with initiatives such as a homebuyer assistance program. Proud Ground will own the land and the buyer will own the home itself.

“I get excited about the homeownership opportunities,” Chick said. “A lot of people who are perhaps in a low-income bracket, certainly people in DD [developmental disabilities] services rarely, rarely have the opportunity for homeownership.”

Both Chick and Shluka said there will be additional support for the homeowners, including Proud Ground maintaining the Thompson Springs property and landscaping taken care of.

“We’re not just throwing folks willy-nilly into a home,” Shluka said. “It’s really a good opportunity for somebody who hasn’t yet experienced this to sort of land softly.”

‘Humble Beginnings’

Thompson Springs shares a property line with Nehalem City Park and was in a state of ruin when Sammy’s Place acquired the land nearly a decade ago after a conversation with former Tillamook County Commissioner Bill Baertlein led to Sammy’s Place on a journey to create affordable homeownership.

“We made an offer. We made a legitimate offer,” Chick said. “This is the piece everybody forgets. ‘The county just gave you that property’. No, we made a full-fledged reasonable offer and they said to us, Bill Baertlein said to us, ‘We need housing, give it a shot.’”

Oregon Department of Environmental Quality paid for the entire cleanup of the three-acre property and personnel, in partnership with the Environmental Protection Agency and the City of Nehalem, according to Chick.

“They spent years cleaning up,” she said. “We’re talking underground gas tank and poured oil and bits and parts and metals and cars and boats and stuff you cannot access and a freezer that was still full of meat ten years later. It was an environmental disaster very close to the Nehalem wetlands. I mean, we’re just, like, an inch away from the wetlands, two inches from the bay and we cleaned that up.”

Years of dedicated work on the site has created a special property, according to Shluka. Thompson Springs is near both Nehalem Bay and Nehalem River, but the design is focused more on shared outdoor community areas and natural aspects of the property.

“So often in development, the design I was just talking about, the design features that lead to sort of positive interactions with each other and with the environment get ignored to try and capture the best view of water,” Shluka said. “And we did none of that.”

With ground-breaking occurring in early 2026, Chick and Shluka expressed excitement for the future of Thompson Springs and how far along the property has come from those early days.

“It was humble beginnings, to be sure,” Shluka said. “And we are only at the beginning stages of the entire lifespan of this project when you consider once it’s built, not just the initial homeowners that it’s going to effect and their loved ones, but generations of homeowners and people. To imagine where this is going and how it’s going to support lives, it feels pretty good.”

For more information on Sammy’s Place or the Thompson Springs housing project, visit sammysplace.info.

Bay City Arts Center’s First Friday Gallery Opening

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 05:38:18 GMT

Join local communities and visitors alike this February and experience the spirit of the beloved annual Ocean Celebration—traditionally held each August at Cape Lookout—through two special events at the Bay City Arts Center. The events highlight the work of Eduardo Cruz, a self-taught mixed-media artist, performer, and the founder of Huehca Omeyocan, the cultural group behind the “Ocean Celebration”.

Taking place on Friday, February 6 and Saturday, February 7, the events offer two distinct ways to engage—through visual art and live performance. Attendees are welcome to join one or both events to celebrate Eduardo’s artwork, experience cultural performance, and learn more about the Ocean Celebration’s decade-long legacy as it approaches its 10th anniversary in 2026.

On Friday, February 6, Eduardo Cruz will be featured as February’s Artist of the Month during the Bay City Arts Center’s First Friday gallery opening. The exhibit will showcase his visually striking wood-burning artwork, alongside cultural artifacts from the Ocean Celebration.The evening will also include participation from local environmental partners who help organize the celebration—such as Friends of Netarts Bay WEBS and Oregon Shores—highlighting the powerful intersection of art, culture, and environmental stewardship.

The celebration continues on Saturday, February 7, with a ticketed live performance at the Bay City Arts Center. Huehca Omeyocan, led by Eduardo Cruz, will present an Ancestral Music & Dance Celebration, featuring traditional drumming, Aztec dance, and interactive audience participation. “This immersive experience honors the living traditions of Anahuac (Mesoamerican) culture,” says Cruz. “The performance includes a beautifully curated display of instruments and artifacts from cultures across Mesoamérica, inviting audiences to engage, immerse, and connect with the rhythms and stories of these ancestral traditions.”

Together, these two events offer a rare winter opportunity to experience the creativity, cultural depth, and community partnerships that have made the Ocean Celebration a meaningful annual tradition on the Oregon coast.

Event Details

Gallery Opening: Friday, February 6, 5-7 p.m., 2026
Live Performance: Saturday, February 7, 6-8:30 p.m., 2026
Tickets for Saturday’s live performance are $20. For more information and to purchase tickets online go to: netartsbaywebs.org/events or https://www.baycityartscenter.com
Location: Bay City Arts Center, 5680 A Street, Bay City, OR 97107

Tillamook County Pioneer Museum receives funding from Oregon Heritage Grant for Indigenous collection assessment

Sat, 17 Jan 2026 22:40:00 GMT

The Tillamook County Pioneer Museum (TCPM) is honored to announce the receipt of a 2025 Oregon Heritage Grant.

The Tillamook County Pioneer Museum received $11,265 to assess their Indigenous collection.

In total, the Oregon Heritage Commission awarded $378,971 to 31 selected applicants; over 70 applications were received from organizations all across the state. The Oregon Heritage Grant is a competitive program for qualifying organizations, and is offered once per biennium for projects that conserve, develop or interpret Oregon’s heritage. The grants will help fund a variety of projects including collection preservation and access, research, oral history, exhibits, and performance projects. Award amounts ranged $1,656 - $20,000.

“This generous grant will fund our project to evaluate TCPM’s Indigenous Collections to better preserve these belongings, and determine tribal origin in preparation of future repatriation and/or exhibition,” TCPM Collections Manager Clara Scillian Kennedy said. “This is essential to TCPM’s endeavors to uplift and center Indigenous knowledge within its practices and exhibitions. The funding of this project will provide culturally appropriate preservation that is necessary to ensure the safety of these belongings as repatriation efforts are underway. We thank the Oregon Heritage Commission and our tribal partners for their support of this project.”

TCPM currently stewards approximately 1,000 Indigenous belongings. This collection contains belongings from tribal groups across the United States, including approximately 500 significant items of the Indigenous Oregon people and their descendants. Funds from the Oregon Heritage Grant will be utilized to hire a consultant who will assist in addressing the condition and tribal association of each item, as well as purchasing supplies needed to preserve the belongings in a way that honors the wishes and needs of the original keepers.

TCPM has selected consultant Stephanie Craig nee Wood (ɬaxayam) of Kalapuya Weaving & Consulting. Stephanie is a seventh-generation basket weaver and an Oregon Culture Keeper. She earned her Master of Arts in Anthropology and Cultural Museums and Folklore from University of Oregon, and has received training from the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian and the Tamastslikt Cultural Institute in Pendleton. Before opening her own consulting firm, she was the Collections Registrar for the Chachalu Museum & Cultural Center at Grand Ronde. During her master’s degree, Stephanie worked with TCPM on an exhibit of Tillamook Indigenous basketry. During this exhibition she was able to provide information on a number of those baskets.

“As an organization, we are deeply honored to receive the Oregon Heritage Grant. This support allows us to bring in a qualified consultant to conduct a full assessment of our collection and with care and integrity,” TCPM Board of Directors President Ryan Weber said. “As a board, we feel a profound responsibility to honor the stories and histories represented in these items. We are committed to doing this work thoughtfully and working towards the rightful repatriation of artifacts to the Indigenous Tribes whose cultural heritage they reflect. This is an important step toward ensuring our stewardship is aligned with our values of respect, accountability, and partnership.”

TCPM expects to complete the assessment phase of their project by Spring 2026. This project is supported in part by a grant from the Oregon Heritage Commission, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

The Oregon Heritage Grant is a program of the Oregon Heritage Commission within the Oregon Parks & Recreation Department. The Commission works to secure, sustain and enhance Oregon’s heritage. The Commission consists of nine members appointed by the governor and nine agency advisors. Members are chosen from state agencies and statewide organizations, and represent diverse geographical and cultural backgrounds.

To learn more about the Oregon Heritage Grant or the Oregon Heritage Commission, visit

www.oregonheritage.org.

Bay City Arts Center announces new executive director

Sat, 17 Jan 2026 22:29:30 GMT

The Bay City Arts Center Board of Directors is thrilled to announce the new appointment of an Executive Director!

After 25 years, the Center is busier than ever, with growing demand for programs and our historic building in Bay City. As a community-run arts center, they have been sustained by volunteers, many amazing board members over the years, and a dedicated long-term volunteer Executive Director who served until 2023.

A new paid, part-time ED role was outlined in BCAC’s 2025-2030 Strategic Plan to support the increased demand on administrative, fundraising, and operational needs of the organization.

Local leader, Lauren Sorg has stepped into this role as of this month. Lauren has a deep background in non-profit leadership in Tillamook County, serving as ED for Food Roots from 2015-2023, developing beloved programs like the local food marketplace and delivery program, beginning farmer incubation and low-income food access programs. Additionally, Lauren is currently serving a three-year term on Oregon Community Foundation's North Coast Leadership Council which advises on community needs and challenges in our region.

Lauren began working with BCAC in March of 2025 as a non-profit consultant and grant writer, bringing in over $65,000 in funding, including funds for a new youth after school theater program as well as funding from Bay City TLT to support tourist-related activities such as art workshops and cultural performances.

“Lauren has done an amazing job moving us forward and we can’t wait to see her lasting impact as her role adapts,” said Dani Grutoski, Board President.

Lauren is prioritizing building repairs and revitalization along with fundraising and program development.

Lauren loves creating including natural plant dyeing: cultivation and pigment processing. She is also a musical artist with a background in vocal performance and dabbles with a couple of instruments.

“I am excited to enter this role after a period of rest and reset, developing my art, and spending most of this past year working to get to know the BCAC’s programs and goals,” said Lauren. “I’m looking forward to reconnecting with community members and working alongside BCAC board and volunteers to continue making creative and amazing things happen here for our community.

“A Man Called York” traveling exhibit comes to Tillamook

Sat, 17 Jan 2026 22:07:02 GMT

The Corps of Discovery made history in more ways than one. Under the command of Captain Meriwether Lewis and Second Lieutenant William Clark, a group of U.S. Army and civilian volunteers trekked through the Louisiana Purchase, all the way to near modern-day Astoria.

Amongst the explorers was an enslaved man called York. He took part in the Lewis and Clark Expedition from 1803-1806 and was the first African American to explore the American West. York was born around 1772 on the Clark family plantation in Caroline County, Virginia. York was similar in age to William Clark and the two were probably childhood playmates. Once they were teenagers, York was made William’s body servant, responsible for attending to William’s personal needs.

In 1803, William Clark joined Meriwether Lewis in leading the U.S. expedition through the newly-acquired western territories and on to the Pacific. William chose to bring York along, making him the only Black member of the party. York proved to be one of the group’s best hunters and was a caretaker to Sergeant Charles Floyd and Sacagawea on the expedition. York’s journey is the origin of Black history in many states, and he is remembered as a pioneering explorer and ancestor.

A traveling exhibit from Oregon Black Pioneers “A Man Called York” will be on temporary display at the Tillamook County Pioneer Museum through February 28. The exhibit, features eight standing vinyl banners that explore the life and experiences of York, revealing his life beyond the expedition and recognizing his place within national African American history.

“We’re kicking off the New Year with a different perspective from Oregon’s history,” Tillamook County Pioneer Museum Executive Director Peyton Tracy said. “Our mission includes sharing and interpreting the history of the North Oregon Coast and that includes Fort Clatsop where the Corps of Discovery wintered. This exhibit is part of the Lewis and Clark story with a much broader lens and narrative. We’re excited to open the exhibit and be the first stop on its traveling

tour.”

A presentation from Oregon Black Pioneers will conclude the exhibit’s stay in Tillamook on February 28. More details to come.

To learn more information about York’s life, visit: oregonblackpioneers.org/black-history-spotlight-york

The Tillamook County Pioneer Museum (2106 Second St) is open Tuesday – Saturday, 10 am – 4 pm. Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for seniors, children under 10 are free.

Tillamook and Bay City Fire Department responded to Trask River Apartments fire fatality

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 18:22:05 GMT

On Sunday, January 11 the Tillamook Fire District and Bay City Fire Department responded to a structure fire at an apartment complex on 6th Street in Tillamook .

Initial units on scene confirmed heavy smoke and fire activity affecting multiple units within the apartment structure. The fire spread rapidly escalated to a multi-agency response due to the structure and its proximity to additional apartments.

“Emergency crews responded to a structure fire with reports of an individual trapped within the structure. Fire crews immediately initiated fire attack and rescue operations simultaneously as Tillamook City Police and Tillamook Sheriff’s deputies coordinated evacuation of residents,” said Alan Christensen Operations Chief of Tillamook Fire District.

Through coordinated efforts, firefighters were able to contain the blaze within a few minutes of arrival and prevent further spread. Simultaneously, fire crews located and removed a victim from the primary fire apartment. Adjacent apartments suffered smoke, water, and structural damage. The American Red Cross is coordinating with community partners to provide temporary assistance for several residents who were displaced.

Unfortunately, the fire incident resulted in one fatality. Fire crews located and removed the deceased victim from the primary fire apartment. The identity of the deceased is being withheld pending notification of next of kin. Tillamook Ambulance personnel were on scene to provide care and transported one resident to the hospital who was later treated and released.

Thanks to our partners: local law enforcement assisted with crowd control and scene security; Tillamook City Public Works provided on scene supplies; and Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office is assisting with the cause and origin investigation. In total, there were 22 fire personnel on scene. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

“This incident underscores the resilience of our emergency response network and demonstrates our commitment to the communities we serve,” said Christensen. “The dedication and professionalism demonstrated by all responding agencies, both paid staff and volunteers was instrumental. Our thoughts are with those impacted by this tragedy.”

Additional information will be released as it becomes available.

Responding agencies included:

· Tillamook Fire District

· Bay City Fire Department

· Tillamook Ambulance

· Tillamook Police Department

· Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office

· Tillamook Public Works

· Tillamook 911

· Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office

· Tillamook PUD

· Red Cross

Media Contact: Alan Christensen
Operations Chief of Tillamook Fire District

Fire Chief Bay City Fire Department
[503-842-7587] | [ achristensen@tillamookfire.com ]

Tillamook County Transportation District announces service improvements

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 05:35:52 GMT

Starting this January 18, Tillamook County Transportation District (TCTD) has announced immediate service improvements.

Provided below are the details of what that will look like for customers and local communities. TCTD has been working toward this goal for the past year and a half! Over the previous nine to twelve months, they have been able to attract, hire, and train numerous quality drivers, and continue to do so. This has allowed them in a great position to reinstate seven day a week transit service on their entire system and add back discontinued trips that were suspended in spring 2024 due to a driver shortage. The year ahead includes several exciting transit service improvements that will help TCTD better meet the needs of local communities.

Near-term improvements slated for the January 18 shift bid include:

Reinstatement of seven day a week transit service
Added Dial-A-Ride capacity
Direct Route 3 service to the new Nehalem Bay Health Center in Wheeler
Reinstatement of the 4:55 AM Route 5 trip to Portland (transfer to TriMet’s Red Line at Sunset Transit Center in Beaverton for car-free travel to PDX)
40% more trips on Route 2 (Netarts-Oceanside) and Route 6 (Port of Tillamook Bay)
Overall 25%+ service hours increase!

New Tillamook Bay Fire & Rescue District proposed

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 04:14:05 GMT

As the kids call it these days: Tillamook Fire District and Bay City Fire are soft launching.

During the City of Tillamook Light Parade on December 6, fire vehicles from both Tillamook and Bay City drove through the streets sporting banners reading “Tillamook Bay Fire & Rescue.”

The union is a proposal for both fire organizations to come together and form: Tillamook Bay Fire & Rescue Rural Fire Protection District.

The combined district would serve approximately 18,385 permanent residents in the Tillamook and Bay City areas. The new district would be overseen by five Board of Directors elected by the voters. The Board of Directors will be responsible for carrying out a hiring process for the selection of a new fire chief for the newly formed district.

Currently, the Bay City Fire Department operates as a municipal fire department under the authority of the Bay City Council. Tillamook Fire District operates under the governance of a five-member elected Board of Directors.

“I support the formation of a new fire district as it looks at the long-term sustainability of emergency and fire response to our communities,” Bay City Mayor Liane Welch said. “Currently, Bay City Fire Department has two full-time employees while Tillamook has one full-time and several part-time personnel. This is not sustainable for the multitude of calls for service, especially during tourism season. We heavily rely on volunteers to respond to emergencies, and we need full-time staff to provide support for volunteers, training, documentation, turnouts, and administration support.”

The unification of the two fire organizations will ultimately be decided by residents in Bay City and Tillamook with a measure on the May ballot.

“A ballot measure to unify the Tillamook Fire District and the Bay City Fire Department is a much-needed move for both of our two communities as the call volume and populations of both areas continues to increase,” said Tillamook Fire District Board Director Casey Burden. “Each group has put in many hours (and continues to do so) of research and collaboration to come to the recommendation to bring both fire organizations together. In the coming months, the public will begin to see additional information regarding the measure, and we ask that you give it some thoughtful consideration.”

If passed in May, a unified tax rate of $1.49 per $1,000 assessed value would be imposed and generate approximately $2.45 million annually for district operations.

A resolution to support a petition and place the measure on the May ballot has unanimously been approved by the Bay City Council and Tillamook City Council. Tillamook County Commissioners will hear the petition on Wednesday, January 14.

Accepting Applications for 2026 OSU Master Gardener Training-

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 06:29:04 GMT

Ready to dig deeper into gardening and give back to your community? The Oregon State University Extension Service in Tillamook County welcomes everyone interested in participating in the 2026 Master Gardener Training, running January 8 ^th to April 2 ^nd , 2026.

The Master Gardener Training will take place weekly on Thursdays from 9 am to 3 pm in-person at 4506 3 ^rd Street, Tillamook, Oregon 97141 in OSU Extension Service room 105 with a few classes on Saturdays from 10 am to 1 pm at North County Recreation District, Nehalem, OR.

The Master Gardener training will feature weekly in person classes exploring different topics, engage in hands-on activities as conditions allow and connect with other continuing Master Gardeners.

This thirteen-week in-person training will be available for $150. Registration is open now and will close on January 5 ^th , 2026.

Becoming a certified OSU Master Gardener™ also includes a volunteer component. Participants are expected to complete 40 hours of approved volunteer service during 2026 , helping share research-based gardening knowledge throughout Tillamook County. The breakdown of approved volunteer hours is listed on the Extension Page: https://extension.oregonstate.edu/mg/tillamook

Ready to grow your skills and your community impact?
Apply online at https://beav.es/4MJ or call 503-842-3433 for more information.

Shop with a Cop Success

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 06:26:48 GMT

Law enforcement personnel from the City of Tillamook Police Department (TPD), Manzanita Police Department, Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO), United States Coast Guard, US Forrest Service & Oregon State Police participated in the 21st Annual “Shop with a Cop” event on Saturday, December 20, 2025, from 7am-11 am.

The Tillamook Fred Meyer generously provides breakfast snacks for the children, volunteers, and Officers. This year a $200 gift card will be given to each child to purchase gifts for themselves and their family. Many of the Officer’s dig into their own pockets to ensure the children are provided with something their heart is set on, that exceeds the amount donated to them.

These children were selected by a committee through referrals. This committee is comprised of Tillamook School District staff, DHS representatives, TCSO, TPD and Tides of Change Staff.

Shop with a Cop gives children an opportunity to see law enforcement Officers in a different light building those everlasting relationships, many times just the look of joy on the children's faces means the world to the officers helping them. This program is supported entirely by donations; financial contributions are

collected year-round. TPD would like to thank the Tillamook County community & Friends of Tillamook Police for the money raised to make the event a success.

If you are interested in supporting this event, please make a check out to; “The Friends of Tillamook Police” or go to the website at www.friendsoftillamookpolice.org and click on the donate button. You can send or drop off a donation to the Tillamook Police Department at, 207 Madrona Avenue, Tillamook, OR 97141

For questions, please contact Chief Nick Troxel with the Tillamook Police Department.

Tillamook and Bay City volunteer firefighters collect toys for 300 local children

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 06:12:35 GMT

Sometimes, Santa needs a little extra help and this year Tillamook and Bay City volunteer firefighters were ready to pitch in.

At their Santa’s Toy Bag event hosted at Fred Meyer on December 6, the group of volunteer firefighters were able to collect enough toys (or cash to purchase toys) for 300 local children within 155 families in Tillamook County.

“To collect all those gift cards and toys in four hours was a great success,” Bay City Fire Chief Alan Christensen said. “This program gives back to the community every single year with the toys being dispersed to families in our communities.”

Tillamook County Creamery Association was a major contributor to the collection event, purchasing toys and gift cards.

All toy donations and gift cards were transferred to CARE’s Christmas Basket Program for distribution.

Special thanks to Susie Johnson, Rebecca Dougherty, and Judy Gollon for their coordination of the event, and Sacred Heart Catholic Church for providing storage and space for toy sorting.

Where to eat this Thanksgiving

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 05:36:18 GMT

Eat local this Thanksgiving!

Twin Rocks Friends Camp hosts 2nd Annual Gingerbread House Party

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 05:47:48 GMT

This celebration is bound to be crumb-licious!

For the second year in a row, a fun-filled, family Christmas event with holiday themed activities, food, and music will be hosted at Twin Rocks Friends Camp on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. The Gingerbread House Party is an open invitation to the community to come partake in the merriment and visit the Twin Rocks campus.

“Last year we had 400 guests, it was a really great event that brought the community together. So, we wanted to recreate and grow upon it,” Twin Rocks Development Director Liz Seume said. “This year we’ve expanded our stained glass painting activity, added ornament making, are hosting a modern day nativity play, and have a snow globe photo opportunity.”

Entry to the event is free with happenings located inside many of the camp’s buildings.

“This is a great time for the community to visit the campus and get to know our organization a bit better,” Seume said.

Guests can participate in several no-cost activities such as: the stained glass art project, ornament making, cocoa and popcorn snacks, and story time with Mrs. Claus. Santa will also be available for photos with a professional portrait photographer. Families will receive their free photos via a digital link. Admission to the event is free, but an RSVP at twinrocks.org/camp/gingerbread-house-party is politely requested.

“We’re providing families with a joyful Christmas event where they can spend time together in an interactive environment,” Seume said.

Guests can also reserve slots to participate in fee-based activities including: a wreath making class, gingerbread house decorating, and overnight stay accommodations.

“The gingerbread houses are real food with real ingredients: molasses, ginger, and all the spices. You’ll actually want to eat these when you’re done,” Seume said.

Each gingerbread house is $15 and the cost of the wreath making class is $20. All supplies and clean up (yeah!) are included. To reserve your spot, visit: twinrocks.org/camp/gingerbread-house-party/. Payment will be collected at the event.

The Undertow (on campus coffee shop) will be open at the event with espresso drinks available for purchase. In the dining hall, German themed concessions like bratwurst and pretzels will also be for sale.

“This is a chance for families to interact together and focus on the joy of the season,” Seume said.

Parking is free and staff will be onsite to direct guests.

Twin Rocks Friends Camp & Conference Center is located at 18705 US 101, Rockaway Beach, OR 97136. For more information, visit twinrocks.org/camp/gingerbread-house-party.

A tree-mendous festival

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 04:24:36 GMT

While many still have turkey dinners on the mind, the Tillamook County Pioneer Museum is gearing up for a tree-mendous time that you won’t want to miss. The 21st annual Festival of Trees fundraiser returns this December with an expanded schedule to allow for even more people to enjoy the magic of the season. Festival of Trees includes four events: three, free community celebrations and the traditional Festival Fundraiser Gala and Silent Auction.

“We’re delighted to expand beyond our usual one-night event to create a month-long Christmas celebration to bring together our community and supporters,” Tillamook County Pioneer Museum Director Peyton Tracy said.

To harness the festivity of the most wonderful time of the year, the Museum will be decked and trimmed with Christmas décor including 12 Christmas trees graciously sponsored by Museum supporters.

“One big change coming this year is that we will still have our forest of Christmas trees, but they will not be for auction,” Tracy said. “Instead, we hope you will help us to sponsor and decorate full-sized and tabletop trees that will be displayed with your name and logo the entire month of December.”

A Fireside Chat will kick of the month on Friday, December 5 at noon. During this time, guests are invited to visit with Museum staff and board members, as well as some of the Museum’s valued community partner organizations. Visitors can get a sneak preview of upcoming exhibits and projects, as well as learn more about the important work the Museum does to preserve and interpret Tillamook County’s cultural and natural heritage. A second Fireside Chat will be hosted on Wednesday, December 10 at 4 pm. Fireside Chats are free and open to the public.

Then, come marvel at the festive forest during the Twinkling Trees Family Night on Saturday, December 6, from 3-7 pm. The evening will correspond with the City of Tillamook’s Christmas Tree lighting ceremony and light parade festivities. The Museum’s doors will be open and admission is free for visitors to enjoy the decorated trees, snap family photos, and participate in a kids’ holiday scavenger hunt.

Concluding the month is the Festive Fundraiser slated for Wednesday, December 17. This year, the Museum has added a Christmas Tea which will be hosted from 2-4 pm with light hors d’oeuvres and beverages, Christmas music, and special silent auction items exclusively for afternoon guests. Then at 5 pm, the Gala and additional silent auction will begin and go until 8 pm with light dinner items, complimentary drinks, and social time; all while surrounded by history and Christmas delights.

“There will be good food, good music, and good friends brought together to support the museum during the holiday season,” Tracy said. “This event wouldn’t be possible without the support of our incredible community, far and wide. We are so grateful to be a part of a community that supports each other.”

Tickets to the Festive Fundraiser are $40 a person and include admission to both the Christmas Tea and Gala events. Tickets can be purchased online beginning November 1 at tcpm.org or in person at the Tillamook County Pioneer Museum.

“With your help, we’re one step closer to meeting our mission of preserving and presenting Tillamook County history for all,” Tracy said. Silent auction contributions, sponsorships, and monetary donations are accepted to support the Museum’s biggest fundraiser of the year. If you wish to support the Museum’s Festival of Trees event, email Community Engagement Coordinator Chelsea Yarnell at chelsea@tcpm.org or visit the Museum at 2106 Second Street in Tillamook.

Decorate for a spooktacular Halloween

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 04:33:38 GMT

Orange you glad it’s Halloween time? This October, the Tillamook Revitalization Association (TRA) will host their annual downtown Tillamook Halloween decorating contest.

Businesses are invited to dress up there windows, doorways, or front entrances for the spookiest time of the year.

TRA will select the top three winners who receive prizes including gift certificates to local business and bags of candy. The grand champion will also receive a handmade trophy from Kristy Lombard Pottery.

Judging will take place on Friday, October 24. Judges will visit after dark, so displays should be ready to be seen after business hours.

To participate, entry forms can be returned to 1st Security Bank (on the corner of 3 ^rd and Stillwell) by October 17.

McCloud 25 celebrates centennial, brings hundreds of visitors to Wheeler

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 03:54:36 GMT

The flagship steam locomotive for Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad (OCSR), McCloud River Railroad #25, just turned 100 years old this September.

To celebrate, OCSR hosted a weekend-long event (Sept. 20-21) with special excursions including a stopover in Wheeler.

“This run’s been exciting because we’ve gone all the way from Garibaldi to Wheeler which is something we don’t normally do. Typically, we only run trips from Rockaway Beach to Wheeler or Rockaway Beach to Garibaldi, but not the entire length of the service railroad to Wheeler,” OCSR Operations Supervisor and General Manager Trevor Park said. “We brought people up here not only to celebrate the #25’s 100th birthday, but also to bring business to Wheeler as we’ll be running up here every single weekend [soon]”

The specialty ride from Garibaldi to Wheeler, brought out 200 passengers.

“The businesses here in Wheeler graciously stayed open for us very late to accommodate all of our passengers,” Park said. “Everyone got to come here, have food, go to antique shops, and explore the town and beautiful views it has to offer. It shows [Wheeler’s] commitment to the railroad. We see a huge benefit that it brings to Wheeler, not only the 10,000 plus passengers it brings a year, but also the way the train comes in here and brings the whole community together the way it does. It’s special to see and it’s something we hope to continue to do at the rate we’re doing now, but something we hope to continue to expand on in the future.”

Beginning October 3 and running weekends through November 16, OCSR will be operating their “Fall Splendor” Trips from Rockaway Beach to Wheeler.

“The train is actually a lot closer to the bay and waterways, so it allows people to experience the environment in a historic way as they have 100 years ago,” Park said. “It makes it a really popular and unique attraction because of the array of equipment we have, but also the absolutely stunning scenery we have along the railroad.”

For more information, or to purchase “Fall Splendor” tickets, visit: oregoncoastscenic.org

‘Found’ photos of Neskowin create historical coffee table book

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 04:18:31 GMT

First it was a fishing settlement. Then a farming and camping area. And now today, a vibrant community on the rural Oregon Coast. The evolution of Neskowin is captured through historic photos in The Neskowin Historical Foundation’s first ever book: “Neskowin: A Book of Found Photos 1880-1970.”

The 300+ page, hardback coffee table book takes readers on a visual journey through time featuring photographs of the area’s iconic landscapes such as Proposal Rock and the mysterious Ghost Forest, as well as portraits of the town’s pioneering families.

“We wanted to have a different approach [than a history book],” Neskowin Historical Foundation member Michael Schlicting said. “We wanted to create an artbook with a different style that was photo-driven, and the captions would give the context and the history. Each chapter opens with a synopsis. The ‘fun’ was the act of discovery, pulling on threads, and seeing the tapestry unfold in front of us of how Neskwoin came to be what it is.”

The book was primarily researched and compiled by the founding members of the Neskowin Historical Foundation: Jim Affolter, Cameron Nagel, Cathy Benneth, Steve Beckham, Jody Stager, and Schlicting. A call for photos was put out to the community, which brought forth rare, “found” photos and history that had never been documented.

“The interesting thing that we found was that Neskowin became a farming community and a beach resort from day one,” Schlicting said. “People came from the valley in 1880 to camp for the summer and have clambakes and dances. We found newspaper articles and first-person accounts which gives a richness to these photos.”

The book’s cover photo features a young woman, book in hand, gazing at Proposal Rock. It was an image that stood out to the Neskowin Historical Foundation members.

“We wanted the cover photo to be one of the early photos,” Schlicting said. “We found this one to be compelling and a story visual. We kept coming back to it.”

Love a particular image? The Neskwoin Historical Foundation can assist with individual prints of photographs including a brief historical description of the image, so readers can curate their own collection of Neskwoin memories.

A book release open house will be hosted at Hawk Creek Gallery on Saturday, October 11 from 11 am – 5 pm. The event will have copies of “Neskowin: A Book of Found Photos 1880-1970” for sale as well as Neskowin Historical Foundation swag available for purchase.

“It’s going to be a beautiful book from a visual standpoint,” Schlicting said. “If you’re a history buff or have an interest in how the coast was developed, I think it will be an attractive book.”

More information about ordering and shipping can be found at NeskowinHistoricalFoundation.org .

Tillamook County Pioneer Museum asks for community feedback

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 04:25:01 GMT

A lot has changed since the Tillamook County Pioneer Museum’s (TCPM) founding in 1935.

New history, exhibits, and staff. But something remains the same: TCPM’s commitment to preserving the history of Tillamook County.

As TCPM looks to the future, they’re asking the community to be a part of the process.

“The Tillamook County Pioneer Museum Board is deeply committed to ensuring the museum grows alongside our community,” TCPM Board of Directors President Ryan Weber said. “We envision the museum as a vibrant gathering place where neighbors, families, and visitors can come together to connect with the history of our county in meaningful ways.”

TCPM is currently developing a five-year strategic plan to help guide the future of the museum.

“By embracing museum best practices and creating experiences that are both accessible and relevant to today, we aim to honor the past while inspiring the future,” Weber said. “These are the very reasons we are undertaking a five-year strategic planning process. We want to chart a thoughtful path forward that reflects our community’s voice and ensures the museum remains a place of pride for generations to come.”

The public is invited to participate in a community survey about TCPM. The survey can be found at: surveymonkey.com/r/TCPM2025

About the Tillamook County Pioneer Museum

Founded in 1935 by Tillamook Oregon pioneers, the Tillamook County Pioneer Museum offers 19 display areas that focus on the history of the North Oregon Coast. The museum’s mission is to preserve and interpret the Cultural Heritage of the North Oregon Coast and to foster appreciation and respect of the North Oregon Coast's environment. The current collection includes 55,000 items and 20,000 photographs ranging from prehistoric specimens to modern-day. The Tillamook County Pioneer Museum is open to the public Tuesday-Saturday, 10 am - 4 pm. Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for seniors, and free for children under the age of 10. The research library can be accessed by appointment only.

Fall into fall at Tillamook Forest Center

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 04:20:43 GMT

Let’s fall into this autumn season! The Tillamook Forest Center is getting ready for the rainy season with our fall event lineup.

In addition to our fall events, the bridge gate at the TFC was chosen to be highlighted as part of the “50 for 50” initiative, started by the Oregon Arts Commission inviting Oregonians to discover 50 selected artworks displayed in public places around Oregon for the 50 ^th anniversary of the Percent for Art program.

Fall Events

Have Fun Drawing Fungi! | November 1 ^st at 1:00 pm

Learning to draw mushrooms can be a lot of fun for artists of all levels. Mushrooms offer simple shapes and amazing colors and patterns. Learn how to depict mushrooms using basic shapes, color and light to make your mushrooms look magical. In this workshop, Artist Dorota Haber-Lehigh will explore techniques with graphite pencil, watercolor pencil and colored pencils. We will be drawing from observation, so feel free to bring a non-poisonous mushroom to class (you can find one at a store if you are not a mushroom expert).

Rain Festival | November 15 ^th – 16 ^th | All Day

Rain has come to the Tillamook State Forest, turning trickling streams into roaring rapids - but are you ready to go with the flow? Join us at the Tillamook Forest Center as we plunge into the world of surging rivers, spawning salmon, and the inner workings of watersheds to celebrate the ways in which rain transforms our forests.

Holiday Wreath Making | November 28 ^th - 30 ^th at 11:00 AM

Bring the beauty of the forest home this winter by creating a winter wreath. Participants will use a variety of natural materials that were harvested from our very own state forests. Younger children will also be able to make cone bird feeders. All materials and supplies are included in the cost of the class.

Construction work scheduled at Coatsville Park

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 03:25:29 GMT

The City of Tillamook would like to inform residents and tourists of upcoming construction work scheduled to take place at Coatsville Park (9th Street Park), this construction is expected to require closing a portion of the parking lot, exercise equipment, and swing set .

The construction is expected to begin on Monday, September 22, 2025 and last until November 30, 2025 depending on the contractor’s availability and project

schedule.

During this time, Coatsville Park will require periodic closings of the entire park area when necessary, however most of the time the park will remain open to the public in areas outside of the playground area. The public is expected to proceed with caution in the area.

Work i s planned to install a new piece of playground equipment, as well as installation of a new rubberized surface, to increase child safety.

For questions or additional information, please contact the City of Tillamook Public Works Department at (503) 374-1823.

Gourd vibes only at Kilchis River Pumpkin Patch

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 03:18:56 GMT

It’s that time again to let the gourd times roll at The Kilchis River Pumpkin Patch.

“It's a different kind of pumpkin patch in a beautiful, remote, authentic and relaxed setting,” Zweifel said. “Come for the afternoon and enjoy the good, wholesome family fun.”

Boasting thousands of gourds and u-pick pumpkins, and the biggest corn maze on the Oregon Coast, the Kilchis River Pumpkin Patch will operate every Saturday and Sunday in October from noon – 5 p.m. Get the full, down-home experience with free hay-rides behind one of the farm’s tractors, or snap a cute family picture at one of multiple photo booths.

“People who come here, remark about how family-friendly and non-commercial it is,” Owner Patrick Zweifel said. “It is very relaxed. People come with their families and a basket of food and hang out for several hours.”

Once at the farm, grab a provided wagon near the farm’s rustic “small barn” (which now boasts a water feature) and had out into the patch. Scope out the perfect pumpkin choosing from classic, specialty bi-colored and unconventionally shaped pumpkins and gourds.

Want to get lost? The five-acre corn maze is a unique design with miles of trails and possibilities.

“I used to look at maze pictures on Google or Pinterest to come up with ideas and adapt to our space,” Zweifel said. “But, the past few years I came up with my own design. Sometimes this is laid out on graph paper beforehand, other times I freehand it in the maze.”

Taking the maze from “light” to “fright” are the two nights of the “Maze of Murder.” Live actors in the maze create an immersive experience the send visitors screaming. The haunted nights will be hosted Friday and Saturday night, Oct. 24 and 25 from dusk to 10 p.m. Ages 13+ is advised. A portion admission will be donated to the Lil’ Titans hunting program.

The Kilchis River Pumpkin Patch is hosted the Hydrangea Ranch: one of Oregon’s premier flower farms. The pumpkin patch is a rare time to experience its beauty.

“It’s the best opportunity for people to visit and walk around the farm,” Zweifel said. “It is closed to the public the rest of the year and only open for special events. Now is their chance.”

The Patch will be every weekend in October: Oct. 4-5; Oct. 11-12; Oct. 18-19; Oct. 25-26. Parking and entrance to the farm is free. All pumpkins are priced according to size. The corn maze is $7 for adults and $4 for kids 12 and under. All major credit cards accepted.

The barns and venue seen at the Kilchis River Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze are also available for rent for company parties, customer appreciation, or other events. For more information on the venue, call 503-815-3762.

The Kilchis River Pumpkin Patch is located at: 9455 Kilchis River Rd, Tillamook OR 97141. Follow the signs for parking near the small barn.

A Big Heart

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 04:48:15 GMT

Benefit Concert brings The Voice contestants to Garibaldi

In May 2024, Dennis and Amanda Cavitt lost their oldest son Kyler Cavitt at 28 years old to an unknown heart issue.

“Kyler was gentle giant, such a sweet guy with heart of gold,” Amanda said. “He’d do anything for anyone; he was a genuinely good person.”

Last September, the Cavitt’s hosted the first Kyler’s Big Heart Benefit Concert. The event raised $6,000 that was then donated to local fire departments.

“This is something for us to do and keep Kyler’s memory alive,” Amanda said.

Kyler’s Big Heart Benefit Concert is back for another year happening Saturday, September 13 from 5-10 pm in the Garibaldi Event Tent. Tickets are $30 for adults and $15 for kids.

This year’s funds will go towards purchasing and distributing AED defibrillators within the community.

Headlining the event will be Stee and Jacquie Roar.

Stee made his debut auditioning for Season 24 of NBC's The Voice with an electrifying rendition of the Maroon 5 hit “Sugar.” With John Legend as his coach, he sang his way all the way to the Top 20.

Jacquie Roar was also a contestant on The Voice becoming a finalist during Season 23. She’s returning to the event after performing last year debut benefit concert.

“It’s going to be one of the biggest music events in our area,” Amanda said.

In addition to live music, attendees can purchase food from Garibaldi Portside Bistro, beer, and participate in a silent auction. All ages are welcome to attend.

To purchase tickets, or read more about the visit musicians, visit here.

'Oregon Voices' traveling exhibit comes to Pioneer Museum

Sat, 06 Sep 2025 23:15:40 GMT

What influences an area? Laws? The economy? The environment?

“Oregon Voices” tries to answer these questions

As a traveling exhibit from the Oregon Historical Society, “Oregon Voices” examines some of the important people, industries, organizations, and laws that have shaped the state of Oregon from the end of World War II through 2020.

“My hope with bringing ‘Oregon Voices’ to the Museum is to expand the narratives displayed in the permanent and temporary exhibits,” Tillamook Pioneer Museum Exhibit & Programs Developer Jenny Teece said. “This traveling exhibit touches on multiple different identities, industries, and perspectives that encapsulates the Oregon experience that people from all walks of life can relate to.”

The exhibit has five, threesided pop-up kiosks that cover a different topic on Oregon history: industry and economy; equal rights and social justice; migration and immigration; environment and energy; and Indigenous Tribes of Oregon.

“As we observe holidays like Hispanic Heritage Month, Indigenous Peoples Day, Veterans Day, and much more between the months of September and November, it's important that all experiences are reflected in the museum, and create opportunities for understanding how Oregon has been shaped,” said Teece.

The traveling exhibit will be on display at the Tillamook County Pioneer Museum from September 3 - November 25.

“Oregon Voices” is an exhibit from the Oregon Historical Society which has served as the state's collective memory, preserving a vast collection of objects, photographs, maps, manuscript materials, books, films, and oral histories. Their research library, museum, digital platforms & websites, educational programming, and historical journal make Oregon's history open and accessible to all.

About the Tillamook County Pioneer Museum

The Tillamook County Pioneer Museum is open to the public Tuesday-Saturday, 10 am - 4 pm. The research library can be used by the public by appointment only.

A Beach Cleanup: Celebrating National Public Lands Day

Sat, 06 Sep 2025 23:06:24 GMT

Celebrate National Public Lands Day by cleaning up the beach from Oceanside to Netarts with the Friends of Netarts Bay WEBS and Oceanside Action Partnership, Saturday, September 27, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

WEBS and OAP will have welcome tables set up at The Schooner Restaurant and the upper parking lot at Oceanside Beach, so volunteers can choose where to start the day.

“Let’s take this opportunity to clean up the beach with friends or family, or expand your community by teaming up with fellow volunteers,” says Marina Dreeben, WEBS stewardship coordinator. “In addition to cleaning up the beach, join us for a marine debris survey demonstration at The Schooner at 9:30 a.m. to learn how debris is monitored on the beach year-round, and how you can help!”

In our efforts to reduce waste, instead of using plastic bags, please bring your own bucket to collect debris. There will be some extra buckets on hand if needed.

Be sure to stick around after the cleanup for a special treat just for volunteers – The Schooner will be grilling up fresh oysters from Pearl Point Oyster here in Netarts to thank you for keeping our coastal ecosystems clean!!

As you head out to clean up or just explore, it is important to remember that ocean shores can be dangerous. Avoid logs in the water, keep your distance from marine mammals, and never turn your back on the ocean! If you find any hazardous material, please alert a staff member.

Advanced registration saves time, but is not required. To register and read more about this event visit http://www.netartsbaywebs.org/events

Questions?

Contact info@netartsbaywebs.org

Birds of Tillamook County: Walk and Talk with Michael Krall

Sat, 06 Sep 2025 23:04:07 GMT

Join WEBS Board President, Michael Krall on Saturday, September 20 for an introduction to Tillamook County birds and birding.

Starting with an optional, two-hour slow and easy bird walk, participants will scope out some of our Northwest feathered friends along inland trails and coastal shores.

After the walk, the group will meet at the Netarts Community Club for an informative indoor presentation. Michael will share his photographs, some tips on where and when to bird in Tillamook County, and talk about some of the birds we can expect to see in these diverse habitats.

Michael birds and photographs extensively in Tillamook County, around Oregon, and beyond. He caught the birding bug starting with a Golden Eagle banding in central Oregon with his 8th grade science teacher some 60 years ago.

Michael said, “I have always been partial to woodpeckers.”

In 2017, he made a book of photographs featuring all 22 woodpecker species found in the US and Canada. Now Michael is working on the 50 or so US warbler species and has just a few to go!

“So many birds, so little time!”

Registration is required. Learn more and register for this event at:

https://www.netartsbaywebs.org/even ts

You are not alone

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 05:10:32 GMT

Editor’s note: This feature story contains information about suicide and suicide prevention and awareness. If you, or someone you know, is struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, help is available:

Suicide & Crisis Lifeline : Call or text 988.

24/7 Tillamook County Crisis Hotline : 1-800-962-2851 or 503-842-8201

24/7 AgriStress Helpline (available specifically for people in farming, ranching, fishery, and forestry industries): call 833-897-2474

Mental health and behavior health services are available at:

Tillamook Family Counseling Center: 503-842-8201, tfcc.org

Adventist Health : 503-815-2292

Nehalem Bay Health Center : 1-800-368-5182

Tillamook County Community Health Centers: 503-842-3938

In 2023, the rate of suicide deaths in Tillamook County was 2.6 times higher than that of the state of Oregon.

“Approximately 135 people are impacted by each suicide death,” Tillamook County Suicide Prevention Coalition Chair Amanda Ferrat said. “But in a rural community like ours, that impact far surpasses that number. It goes past that immediate family and that ripple effect is a lot bigger than most people understand or know.”

Tillamook County recognizes suicide as public health concern that can affect community members of all ages and backgrounds, and proclaims September as “National Suicide Prevention Month."

“We want to increase awareness, but move to action as well,” Ferrat said. “The Tillamook County Suicide Prevention Coalition is a community-based organization with volunteers representing numerous organizations. We believe that everyone can be a part of suicide prevention.”

Throughout the month of September, the Coalition will be a participating in numerous suicide prevention and awareness events.

“We’re working to destigmatize the conversation that we recognize is not always comfortable,” Ferrat said. “But the more we talk about it, the more likely someone is to reach out or ask for help.”

On Saturday, September 6 the Coalition will be present at the Tillamook Farmer’s Market to give out: “Don’t Give Up” yard signs. Community members are encouraged to stop by and pick up their free sign or reach out to the Coalition by emailing: tcspcinfo@gmail.com to coordinate pick up.

World Suicide Prevention Day is September 10, and the Collation is encouraging the community to wear teal and purple, post a photo on social media, and tag the Coalition with the hashtag: starttheconversationtillamook.

A Suicide Prevention and Self-Care event hosted by Tillamook Family Counseling Center and SOS Tillamook will take place that evening at the Tillamook Main Library Branch from 5:30 – 8:30 pm.

The first hour of the event will focus on QPR training. QPR stands for: “Question, Persuade, Refer.” QPR is a suicide prevention training that helps participants recognize the warning signs of suicide and how to help a person in crisis.

“QPR teaches people the warning signs of what to look for, ways to ask the question without judgement, and references to get someone some sort of support services,” Ferrat said. “It’s a pretty simple introduction to prevention training and I would love if everyone in our county was trained in it, could recognize warning sings, and could ask those hard questions.”

QPR trainings are also available for organizations or larger groups upon request.

Following the training, a self-care workshop of crafts and socializing will take place. Participants are invited to attend one or both sessions of the evening.

Concluding the day, join the Coalition at the Maxwell Library Park to light a candle to honor those who are suicide attempt and suicide loss survivors from 7:45 – 8:15 pm.

Want to support or be involved with the Coalition? “Hope with the Community” will be a lunch and open house to meet and mingle with folks, learn about how the Coalition is supporting the community in suicide prevention, and explore the ways to get involved. The event is slated for September 18, from 11 am – 1 pm at the Tillamook Main Library Branch.

Tillamook County Suicide Pre vention Coalition currently has a display case at the Tillamook Main Library Branch with information, a QR code to their website , and additional resources.

Report crimes in Tillamook online

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 17:05:31 GMT

The Tillamook Police Department is proudly announcing the launch of MyPDConnect, a cutting-edge online reporting platform designed to allow you to report low-level crimes online right from your phone, tablet or desktop!

MyPDConnect empowers residents and visitors to quickly and easily report crimes directly to local law enforcement without having to wait for an officer response or spend unnecessary time calling dispatch.

Key Features of MyPDConnect:

• Report Crime Easily: Report low-level crimes such as Damaged Property, Theft, Graffiti, Shoplifting,

Ordinance Violations (to include parking) and other crimes or violations, right from your mobile device,

tablet or desktop.

• Upload Unlimited Pictures, Videos and Documents: An unlimited number of pictures, videos and

documents can be uploaded with each report to easily provide information to law enforcement.

• Multi-Language Support: Submit the report one of the available languages such as English, Spanish,

French, German, Korean and Chinese. Additional languages available!

• Instant Notification: Receive text and e-mail updates when your report has been processed and

completed.

• Easy Access: You may text the word report to 971-265-9906 to receive a text link to file a report.

“We are thrilled to launch MyPDConnect, a platform that will truly enhance the way we can serve our community,”

said Chief Troxel. “With MyPDConnect, we are providing additional ways for the community to connect easily with

our department to report crime and receive faster service.”

You may visit https://tillamookpd.mypdconnect.com to report a crime at any time.

The Cowboy’s Closet: chic, Wild West vibes

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 04:52:11 GMT

Inside the Tillamook Farmers' Co-op , a new boutique is offering western wear, but elevated.

The Cowboy’s Closet softly opened June 1, but celebrated their grand opening and ribbon cutting on August 22.

“A lot of our farmers and shoppers also have horses. So, we redid the store this year,” Tillamook Farmers' Co-op Store Manager Laurie Wicker said. “We started out with some western wear basics and then have given it some zhuzh with current brands. It’s been a great way to bring in this lifestyle.”

The Cowboy Closet features items for the whole family with sizes from newborn to 3XL. Brands carried include: Ariat, Hooey, Scully, Bailey Hats, STS Ranch, Lane Boots, Hyer boots and more.

“We have really good, quality brands,” Wicker said. “The community loves it and is excited to have somewhere in Tillamook to get these items.”

Helping to curate The Cowboy Closet is Tillamook Rodeo Queen and Tillamook local C hloe Rieger.

“I wanted to help make a place in Tillamook where people could shop, and for kids to be able to pick up a belt or hat for FFA showings,” Rieger said.

Current FFA and 4H students are offered a 10 percent discount on purchases in the entire store (including The Cowboy’s Closet) as long as their purchase is for showing animals.

“The Farmers' Co-op is more than just a gas station,” Wicker said. “We have so many things and really all the needs for your pets. I think we’re the best stop in Tillamook.”

The Cowboy Closet is open during the Tillamook Farmer’s Co-op’s business hours. To see the latest styles and offerings, follow The Cowboy Closet and Tillamook Farmers' Co-op on social media.

1st Security Bank supports SBDC scholarships

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 03:43:53 GMT

Starting a business is already a leap of faith for most. And when you have question as a small business owner, who do you call for help?

That’s where the Tillamook Bay Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is able to assist.

“A lot of our students are experts in the goods and services that they provide, but need training in other areas,” Tillamook Bay SBDC Director Leon Telesmanich said. “There’s a lot of people who are starting out and don’t know what to do, or they get going and have questions.”

Tillamook Bay SBDC serves a variety of businesses, from small commercial fishing operations to restaurateurs to manufacturers. The organization offers free, confidential one-on-one advising for businesses in every phase of development, from a rough idea to a small empire. Additional workshops and classes focused on other business-related areas of need are also offered.

The “flagship” course for the SBDC is the “Small Business Management” class. The nine-session course meets once a month for three hours and advises business owners and managers on how to implement a plan for sound growth and expansion, better understanding of financial statements, forecasting and inventory.

“We’re remodeling our whole curriculum because we’ve had feedback from the students that hearing from other small business owners and those with a shared experience is really helpful and important to them,” Telesmanich said.

This year’s course begins in October and costs $948.

“The cost of our classes is fairly significant, and we would like to be able to provide scholarships for our students,” Telesmanich said.

Thanks to 1st Security Bank , that will be a very real possibility for about 10 students. On August 20, the institution presented Tillamook Bay SBDC with a gift of $7,500.

“This is helping the entire community,” Telesmanich said. “Most of the SBDC budget that we have goes to maintaining a staff presence in the community and not much is left for budgeting classes, contractors, and advisors.”

Four 1st Secretly Bank representatives were present in the awarding of the check.

“The community in which we live and serve is what keeps us alive,” 1st Security Bank Vice President Market Manager Sheri Williams said. “If we see an opportunity to show our support for the community, we are all over it. I think that’s what community banking is all about.”

Tillamook Bay SBDC kicks off their 2025-26 classes in September with their “Ready, Set, Start Your Business” and “Oregon Real Estate Broker Pre-Licensing” courses. The “Small Business Management’s” first session will be held October 21.

“We’re trying our best to give people opportunities,” Tillamook Bay SDBC Program Coordinator Rudel Larriba said. “If they can’t afford a class, this is where this funding comes in to help people.”

For a full list of Tillamook SBDC classes, to register, or to learn more about the organization, visit oregonsbdc.org/center/Tillamook-Bay-SBDC/

'Dead Lines' makes band debut at Rockaway Beach Music Festival

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 03:41:48 GMT

They’re elusive, a mystery: the band that doesn’t exist.

When the Neah-Kah-Nie Coast Art and Music Cultural (NCAM) Foundation decided to host the Rockaway Beach Music Festival, they wanted to bring together talented musicians from the greater Northwest area as well as showcase local talent. That includes budding youth artists.

“Dead Lines is a group of local musicians who together to write and rehearse a set of original music and debut at the Rockaway Beach Music Festival,” NCAM volunteer and Dead Lines band member Cosmo Jones said. “Our goal was to be able to incorporate student performers and our lead guitar player is going into his senior year at Neah-Kah-Nie High School. Go Pirates!”

Coming together to form the band is Jones on drums, Chad Martin (you may know him from Brittney Bakes) on vocals, Mike Simmons (NKN music teacher) on bass, and NKN senior Lucien on guitar.

“The band plays a genre of our own making called ‘ill ass yacht rap’ and it blends mega-lyrical hip hop with danceable grooves, live players with yacht rock tinted funk that can go from one to 11,” Jones said.

When settling on a name, “Dead Lines” was chosen for many reasons.

“One, we needed a deadline as several of us have always talked about working on music,” Jones said. “Two, we all live and work here, and own businesses. The Rockaway economy is designed for tourism and in the winter the lines are dead, so we need to do more. Three, it's hip hop and our rapper resurrected some old lines to get the ball rolling.”

As a new band, Dead Lines doesn’t have any merch of their own yet, yet encourage guest to purchase NCAM items to raise money for the foundation.

“This performance is a demonstration of what happens when a student gets to have their education supplemented and excels because of that opportunity,” Jones said.

In addition to Dead Lines, NCAM helped facilitate the create of a local band to accompany Nik Xandir Wolf who normally performs with a DJ. The local band will feature Jonny Sappington, a local student drummer.

“Both of these kids can RAWK! The bands are sounding really good,” Jones said.

The Rockaway Beach Music Festival is keeping the cool vibes going this summer with a free, two-day long music festival hosted at the Rockaway Beach Wayside August 16-17.

Dead Lines will have their debut show on Saturday, August 16 at the Rockaway Beach Music Festival at 1:30 pm. Local musicians will accompany Nik Xandir Wolf also on Saturday at 3 pm.

For a full lineup of artists and to purchase VIP tickets, visit: rbmusicfest.com .

AV-8B Harrier jet arrival draws crowd to Tillamook

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 05:04:59 GMT

Cars parked in just about every available spot surrounding the Tillamook Airport on Aug. 4. Peoples’ eyes scanned the sky for a much anticipated site: the arrival of a combat-tested AV-8B Harrier II.

Most heard it before they saw it. The Harrier arrived under its own power: a rare moment that allowed the public a unique opportunity to witness military aviation history in motion. The jet’s capabilities were demonstrated to the gathered crowds: a tour through the skies of Tillamook County, takeoff and landing, and (most impressive) a hover maneuver.

The Harrier will become a part of the Tillamook Air Museum ’s collection as a long-term loan by the National Naval Aviation Museum.

“This aircraft represents an extraordinary chapter in modern military aviation,” said Christian Gurling, Museum Curator. “We are proud to accept this historic piece of Marine Corps history. Acquisitions such as this are fast positioning the Tillamook Air Museum as a world-class destination for aviation heritage, as we continue to broaden and enhance the scope of our exhibits. We look forward to interpreting its legacy for the public in a way that honors its service and the people who flew it.”

Originally delivered to the United States Marine Corps on March 30, 1995, the Harrier has logged 5,518 total flight hours, including 631 combat hours flown across 88 missions, and completed 5,457 landings. It saw combat in multiple theaters over a 30 year career, including missions during Operation Inherent Resolve in Iraq and Syria, where it flew from both USS Boxer and forward air bases such as Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. It also supported humanitarian and combat operations from the USS Peleliu, USS Nassau, and USS America, including roles in Bosnia-Herzegovina, Albania, and the Arabian Gulf. In one deployment, its unit provided aerial support following the collision of the USS John S. McCain near Singapore.

'Loyal Service' exhibit featuring working animals at war and home opens at Tillamook County Pioneer Museum

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 18:10:37 GMT

Spike served as a Private for most of his military career. He was a member of a Marine Detachment at Naval Air Station Tillamook during World War II. His job: improve morale amongst other service members. It was a role that probably came naturally…considering he was an English bulldog.

Learn more about Spike and other animals with local military connections at the Tillamook County Pioneer Museum’s (TCPM) newest exhibit: “Loyal Service: Working Animals at War and Home.”

This is the first installation of “The Searchlight,” a rotating exhibition series dedicated to showcasing the stories of military personnel, operations, and conflicts that have shaped our local community.

“The Museum wants to highlight Tillamook County’s military history,” said TCPM Executive Director Peyton Tracy. “We hope to better preserve the legacy of those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces and their communities, whose stories are inextricably woven into the fabric of local history.”

The new exhibit showcases the stories of local veterans who worked with animals during active combat and after returning home. From Civil War cavalrymen and Vietnam War Point Men, to the Oregon National Guard practicing skirmish lines on horseback at Camp West Tillamook, to a World War I veteran advocating for guide dog training programs.

It also shares stories about the beloved mascot animals from Tillamook’s Naval Air Station during World War II. Like Spike who served at the base until his death in 1943. He was posthumously awarded the rank of Sergeant and buried at the Naval Air Station with full military honors. And Zippy, most likely a golden retriever breed, who was the unofficial mascot for the Naval Air Station Tillamook’s Blimp Squadron.

“‘The Searchlight’ is a rotating series located in an updated room separate from the original military exhibit,” shared Exhibit and Program Developer Jenny Teece. “The Museum has had many conversations, internally and with our community partners, about how we utilize the historic 1905 Tillamook County Courthouse’s space to interact with and engage our visitors. The need for a community space to host meetings, presentations, and educational programming has been a prominent topic in those discussions.”

The original military exhibit is robustly researched and expansive, however only a quarter of the artifacts on display have any relation to Tillamook County’s residents or their involvement in military history.

“The main goal of ‘The Searchlight,’ and this first exhibit, is to engage our local community with memories and stories they can see themselves, their friends, and family members in,” Teece said. “Moving and curating the military exhibit opens a space for a community room to fulfill that need, and allows us to provide more opportunities for visitors.”

Another goal of rotating exhibits at TCPM is to preserve the items on display.

“We want to take care of artifacts so families and friends can come see them another 90 years from now,” said Collections Manager Clara Scillian Kennedy. “The Museum has the honor to preserve so much military history, starting with the Civil War all the way up to modern conflicts of the 1990s. We hope the community continues to entrust us with their memories so we can share them with generations to come.”

The “Loyal Service: Working Animals at War and Home” exhibit opened June 14 and is expected to be on display for a year.

About the Tillamook County Pioneer Museum

The Tillamook County Pioneer Museum is open to the public Tuesday-Saturday, 10 am - 4 pm. The research library can be used by the public by appointment only.

OFRENDA A NUESTRO OCEANO SANADOR

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 05:30:19 GMT

Join Friends of Netarts Bay, Watershed, Estuary, Beach and Sea (WEBS) and celebrate Huehca Omeyocan’s ninth year at Cape Lookout State Park on August 3.

Huehca Omeyocan will be sharing art, culture, music, and dance in a vibrant, colorful, generous, and transcendental way to strengthen the connection with nature and bring communities together during this inspiring celebration.

Huehca Omeyocan will be joined by Friends of Netarts Bay WEBS, Oregon State Parks, OSU Extension, the Juntos Afuera Program, and Oregon Shores for an inspiring day with opportunities to explore, learn, celebrate, and act for the ocean.

Huehca Omeyocan was founded in McMinnville Oregon in 2016 by artist, drummer, performer, and cultural promoter Eduardo Cruz Torres Amictlan and his wife and main dancer of the group Maria Elena Cortes Duran Malinalmiquiz. Maria started dancing when she was only 12 years old, and it has been a part of her life ever since.

The Mexica-Chichimeca or Aztec dance and music connect the natural world, human body, and spirit with everything that exists. It is a cosmic integration — a prayer in motion that delights the senses. Led by Maria Elena Cortes Duran, dancers’ regalia vibrantly display colorful ancestral symbols and vivid feathers. At the Huehuetl drum, Eduardo Cruz Torres sets the rhythm for the flight of ceramic flutes, ocarinas, and wind whistles, while traditional Nahuatl rattles, stones, seeds, and bones stir the atmosphere of each performance.

The movements and sounds of these spirited presentations mirror the energy that joins each of us with each other and the entire cosmos. With joyful generosity, Huehca Omeyocan aims to inspire this transcendent connectivity in every community they touch.

Enjoy the ceremony and various other educational and service activities on August 3 starting at 11 a.m. This is a full day event and often stretches beyond the advertised end time for the celebration. Bring a chair, a picnic, and enjoy the day at the coast!

Registration is highly suggested. Learn more and register for this event at: https://www.netartsbaywebs.org/even ts

Netarts Bay Salt Marsh Tour

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 05:28:30 GMT

Join Friends of Netarts Bay – Watershed, Estuary, Beach, and Sea (WEBS) on August 5 for a FREE event including a presentation and guided tour along the salt marsh at the southern end of Netarts Bay.

While exploring in this unique habitat, participants can learn about the plants and animals, and the importance of this environment from the forest to the water's edge. Discover how plants survive in a salty world and explore vegetation succession from the bay to the dunes.

This program includes two parts: Starting with an indoor presentation at 9 a.m. A review about salt marsh habitats and give an overview of the common plants found in these areas and how they are adapted to survive in these salty locations. After the presentation, participants will drive to the first location for the start of a walking tour with biologist and past WEBS board member Jim Young. This field-based walking tour includes an easy to moderate 1.5 to 3-mile hike through muddy, wet sand, and loose sand areas. Trails may be covered by brush. This program is best suited for participants 12 years and older who are comfortable walking in these environments.

How to prepare/what to bring to the walk:

Participants will need to provide their own transportation between locations
Bring or expect to purchase a OR State Parks parking pass ($10)
Long pants and closed-toe shoes or boots (no flip-flops) — expect muddy conditions
Weather-appropriate clothing (prepare for variable coastal weather)
Insect repellent or protective clothing – mosquitoes may be present (WEBS will have a limited supply of mosquito nets available)

This event is part of the Explore Nature series of hikes, walks, paddles, and outdoor adventures. Explore Nature events are hosted by a consortium of volunteer community and non-profit organizations, and are meaningful nature-based experiences that highlight the unique beauty of Tillamook County and the work being done to preserve and conserve the area’s natural resources and natural resource-based economy.

Pacific City celebrates a festive and successful 66th annual Dory Days

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 05:22:33 GMT

The 66th Annual Dory Days celebration drew crowds from across the region for a weekend filled with heritage, music, fresh seafood, and community spirit. Hosted in the heart of Pacific City, this Oregon Heritage-designated event once again honored the historic dory fishing fleet while providing fun for all ages.

Thanks to the hard work of 65 volunteers and the support of 24 generous sponsors who contributed nearly $12,000, this year’s Dory Days was one of the most successful yet.

Festivities began Friday when crowd-favorite Countryfied took the stage for an evening concert that welcomed 120 attendees at the Kiawanda Community Center, kicking off the weekend with dancing and live music.

Early the next morning, a huge crowd arrived at the traditional Pancake Breakfast, hosted by the Nestucca Rural Fire Protection District, which sold out over 200 meals and raised approximately $2,500 to support local emergency services.

Saturday brought the famous Dory Days Parade, with 60 unique floats and an impressive 343 participants dressed up and parading through town, celebrating dory traditions with “Christmas In July”-themed costumes and decorated boats. Spectators also flocked to the Artisan Market, where 21 local vendors showcased handmade goods.

The famous Fish Fry served up 318 meals of fresh, local dory-caught fish from Kiwanda Reef Fishing Company, while Saturday night bingo saw 75 people vying for prizes in a packed house of friendly competition. Meanwhile, young attendees enjoyed colorful fun with a face painter delighting at least 50 children during the fish fry. Across town at the Pelican Brewery, 125 kids enjoyed a treasure hunt in the sand for prizes and Pelican rootbeer.

History lovers made their way to the "Launching Through The Surf: The Dory Fleet of Pacific City" exhibit, which welcomed 250 visitors eager to learn about the proud and continued legacy of Pacific City’s dory fleet. On Sunday, 47 people gathered at the Kiawanda Community Center for “Sand Kickin’ and Storytellin’,” an intimate storytelling event where 9 local voices shared memories of fishing and life on the coast.

Online interest in Dory Days was strong, with the event website seeing 9,600 views during the week of the celebration. Nearly 800 unique visitors explored the site on Friday, with that number rising to over 900 on Saturday. Additionally, 134 commemorative buttons were sold throughout the weekend, helping guests take home a bit of the Dory Days magic.

“Dory Days is more than an event, it’s a love letter to our fishing heritage and the community that continues to keep it alive,” said Arica Sears. “This weekend showed the joy of our rural community and our commitment to working together. We’re deeply grateful to everyone who participated, volunteered, supported, or simply came out to enjoy the fun. See you next year!”

Sustainable clamming on the bay

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 05:58:03 GMT

Calling all bay admirers and clam lovers! Would you like to learn more about the different types of clams in Netarts Bay? Are you new to clamming and looking for some tips? Do you love to clam but rather not go alone?

Join Friends of Netarts Bay, Estuary, Beach and Sea - WEBS, and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife Monday, August 11 for an informative day on the bay, learning about sustainable shellfish harvesting.

“Participants will walk away with their catch limit of clams and a whole lot of knowledge on bay clam populations, estuarine habitat, and sustainable harvesting” shared WEBS Stewardship Coordinator Marina Dreeben.

Both new and experienced clammers will have a chance to learn alongside ODFW and WEBS staff/volunteers. Space is limited. A shellfish license is required.

Registration is required for this free event. Learn more at:

https://www.netartsbaywebs.org/events

Trivia, Treats & a Touch of Magic

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 05:50:37 GMT

Ready your spellbooks and sharpen your wits, Fantasy Trivia Night with CARE Inc. is coming to Werner’s Beef and Brew this Thursday, July 24th from 5–7 pm.

Whether you're a seasoned dragon-slayer or just love a good hobbit joke, this night promises enchanted questions , mythical fun , and delicious food . And here’s the real magic: proceeds from all food and beverage sales will be donated to CARE Inc , supporting a great cause in our community.

Test your knowledge of fantasy creatures, spellbooks, and legendary lore
Enjoy a hearty meal and refreshing brews
Support CARE Inc just by dining
Costumes welcome (but not required)—bring your inner elf, wizard, or rogue!

Even if trivia isn’t your quest, come for dinner and help make a difference. Eat, drink, and be magical!

RSVP not required—just show up and join the fellowship!

Hopscotch on trash pickup day

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 05:30:52 GMT

It started with a note.

“We loved the hopscotch. Can we get a new course? [From] your friendly trash guys.”

Shelly Wagner posted a picture of the note in a Tillamook community Facebook page. Since then, she’s made it a tradition for her weekly trash pickup from City Sanitary Service .

“I’m the artist,” Wagner said. “I make a [new hopscotch] every few weeks for them. All I can say is: Never grow up. I love to see people making life fun. It makes my heart and soul smile. Pass it on!”

Wagner has also been able to capture and share heart-warming footage of City Sanitary staff utilizing her hand drawn hopscotch and challenge courses.

City Sanitary has provided garbage and recycling collection in Tillamook since 1958 and has been a Walker family operation ever since.

“We have a great team of people and great customers,” City Sanitary Owner Bobby Poppe said. “We have steadily increased our customer base over the last several years and are looking forward to expanding our recycling opportunities with the new Recycling Modernization Act.”

Poppe also mentioned that City Sanitary is close to finalizing the purchase of additional property at the Port of Tillamook Bay for business expansion.

Upcoming TAPA Auditions

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 06:47:22 GMT

TAPA is holding auditions for the upcoming murder mystery dinner theater production “Murder at the Prom” on Saturday July 26 at 1:00 pm, held at the Barn Community Playhouse.

This interactive whodunit combines teen drama with a twist of deadly suspense, all wrapped in a night of prom pageantry gone terribly wrong and promises suspense, laughs, and plenty of hairspray.

This production is seeking a cast of six actors: four females and two males, ranging in age from 18-?. Actors of all ages and experience levels are encouraged to audition. Despite the production taking place in a high school, the script encourages adults in the cast as it adds to the comedic effect.

The murder mystery dinner will be held October 18 ^th at Pacific Restaurant.

Come join the fun and help bring this thrilling prom night mystery to life! A cast list and script sample are available here.

For questions email the director at LisaMWhitman@gmail.com .

Think you’re ready for the end of the world? Better make sure…because auditions are coming for “How to Survive a Zombie Apocalypse”, a fast-paced, audience-interactive comedy that turns survival tips into side-splitting chaos.

Directed by Kelli McMellon, this one-act play takes the form of a seminar led by a group of so-called “experts” teaching the public how to outwit, outlast, and outlive a zombie outbreak. But with each performance hilariously unraveling in its own unexpected way, one thing is certain: no two shows are ever the same.

Auditions will be held Saturday, August 2nd and Sunday, August 3rd from 1:00–2:30 p.m. at the Barn Community Theater . The production features four main roles, all open to any gender, and requires strong comedic timing and a willingness to improvise.

Roles include:

Dr. Dale – The charismatic, buzzword-loving leader of the seminar. Cool, confident, and fluent in improv, Dr. Dale commands the room with TED Talk energy.
Judy – The level-headed scientist of the team. Always trying (and often failing) to bring order to the madness.
Donald – A hardcore survivalist who believes every conspiracy theory out there. He’s easily distracted, especially by attractive audience members.
Tristan – Dr. Dale’s bewildered and childlike niece/nephew, who never seems to understand what’s going on and constantly drifts off-topic with wide-eyed wonder.

The show also features three “audience plants” who participate in the fun, so those interested in small but hilarious roles are encouraged to audition as well.

No experience is necessary, but a willingness to play big, think fast, and interact with the audience is a must.

“How to Survive a Zombie Apocalypse” shows will run October 24-November 9. For questions please contact the director: kellimc101@gmail.com

Remember: Learn to survive and thrive when the dead revive!

Tillamook Air Museum to Acquire Combat-Tested AV-8B Harrier II

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 06:38:23 GMT

The Tillamook Air Museum is proud to announce the upcoming arrival of a combat-tested AV-8B Harrier II, a major addition to the Museum’s growing collection of historically significant aircraft. The aircraft will be flown directly to Tillamook from Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, a major U.S. Navy research, development, and test facility located in California’s Mojave Desert.

The Harrier’s arrival under its own power will be a rare and historic moment for the region, offering the public a unique opportunity to witness military aviation history in motion. In addition to the Harrier, a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster lll will also be flying into Tillamook, transporting the demilitarization crew responsible for preparing the aircraft for public display. The Museum currently anticipates the Harrier and C-17 will a rrive on ��, �� , weath er and operational schedules permitting. The public is encouraged to follow Tillamook Air Musuem's social media for the latest updates as the date approaches.

After arrival, the aircraft will be demilitarized and prepared for permanent exhibition. It is being provided on long-term loan by the National Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola, Florida.

This particular aircraft is a production radar model, built as a Harrier II+, meaning it was originally designed for frontline service with enhanced capabilities. In addition to its fleet combat role, it concluded its career with VX-31 at China Lake, where it served as a test platform supporting developmental and evaluation programs.

“We are honored to welcome this distinguished aircraft to Tillamook,” said Rita Welch, Museum Director of the Tillamook Air Museum. “The arrival of a combat-tested Harrier flown directly from China Lake is a momentous occasion and one of the most significant acquisitions in the museum’s history. This aircraft greatly enhances our collection and strengthens our ability to educate the public about military aviation. We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Bonnie Towne at the National Naval Aviation Museum for her dedication and hard work in facilitating this loan. Her efforts were critical in making this historic transfer possible. We are honored to care for this remarkable piece of history and look forward to sharing its story with our visitors.”

The Museum also extends its sincere thanks to Pablo “Louie” Sanchez, AV-8B Assistant Program Manager for Logistics (APML), who is leading the AV-8B Museum Task Force. His expertise and outstanding coordination have been essential in arranging the upcoming transfer of the Harrier to Tillamook. The Museum also gratefully acknowledges the efforts of his entire team, whose collective support has been vital in bringing this significant addition to the museum’s collection closer to reality.

A special thanks to Visit Tillamook Coast for helping to assist in securing lodging for the Harrier’s demilitarization crew, and Tillamook Inn and Suites for hosting them while they are in Tillamook.

WEBS Cape Lookout Stewardship Days

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 06:31:05 GMT

Every year, WEBS partners with Cape Lookout State Park to offer opportunities to give back, maintain our natural areas, and restore healthy coastal landscapes. Our efforts to remove ivy and establish new native plants have made a huge impact in the park over the last few years.

This year, with the help of volunteers, WEBS will continue our efforts with ivy removal and native plant maintenance.

“Events like this not only offer an opportunity to give back, participants can connect with others in the community, enjoy a day outdoors and hear about the successes and challenges for maintaining the health of Cape Lookout State Park” shared Marina Dreeben, WEBS stewardship coordinator.

Volunteers are invited to join the fun: July 27, August 13, and August 24.

Activities are designed to accommodate a variety of skill levels. Families are welcome.

What to Bring :

Water bottle and snacks
Long pants and sturdy boots
Rain gear and layers to stay warm and comfortable working on the Oregon Coast
Work gloves, hand pruners, shovels, and trowels if you have them! (WEBS will also provide tools)

Get more information and find a link to register on our website at:

https://www.netartsbaywebs.org/even ts

It's giving music

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 05:44:58 GMT

It’s always cooler at the beach.

And the Rockaway Beach Music Festival is keeping the cool vibe going this summer with a free, two-day long music festival hosted at the Rockaway Beach Wayside August 16-17.

Hosted by Neah-Kah-Nie Coast Art and Music Cultural Foundation (NCAM) , the event will feature twelve, live performing musical artists. The lineup includes local bands Mercury Coast and Hope Montgomery; as well as: Glitterfox, Mitch Whitaker, members of Typhoon, The Dead Lines, Nik Xandir Wolf, Doral Vance, Blaine Heinonen, Sunkicks, and Dylan Crawford.

While enjoying music at the beach, attendees are also encouraged to support the vendor artisan fair, beer garden (pouring Pelican Brewing and 503 Distilling ), grab a bite from the Garibaldi Portside Bistro food truck or Tony’s Beach Bites , or walk to Pelican Brewing’s new tap room location in Rockaway Beach. Just a skip away from the concert venue, Sea Breeze Ice Cream will be serving Pelican Brewing soda floats. A portion of all the sales will go back to NCAM .

The music festival is free to attend, or upgrade with VIP tickets for admission to a reserved seating area. All proceeds from VIP tickets and merchandise sales will benefit NCAM’s mission of creating access for youth to writing, music, arts, and cultural programs. The entirely volunteer-run organization is actively raising funds to build a modern recording studio at Neah-Kah-Nie High School.

Want a preview of what the concert will sound like? Search for the Rockaway Beach’s Music Festival 2025 Vibes playlist on Spotify.

For a full lineup of artists and to purchase VIP tickets, visit: rbmusicfest.com .

The Rockaway Beach Music Festival is made possible by city grants and community grants from Tillamook PUD, City of Rockaway Beach, Visit Tillamook Coast, Oregon Community Foundation, and The Roundhouse Foundation.

Celebrating Coastal Creativity: Nestucca Valley Artisans Festival Returns to Pacific City

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 04:43:58 GMT

The Oregon Coast’s vibrant creative spirit takes center stage once again as the Nestucca Valley Artisans Festival returns to the Kiawanda Community Center in Pacific City on August 16 and 17, 2025 , from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. This much- anticipated event offers residents and visitors the chance to experience and support the region’s thriving arts community.

The festival features 23 local artists, all members of Nestucca Valley Artisans , a nonprofit collective committed to nurturing and promoting local creativity. Attendees will enjoy a wide selection of original, handcrafted artwork, including paintings, ceramics, textiles, jewelry, woodworking, photography and more for sale.

“This is a unique chance to purchase original art directly from local artists in the community,” said Brendan Alex Phoenix, Marketing Director of Nestucca Valley Artisans. “Take home a one-of-a-kind reminder of the Oregon Coast while supporting local artists.”

Returning artists include: Walt Amacher (photography), Marilyn Burkhardt (paintings, prints, sculptures), Bill Cary (pottery), Candace Churchley (book arts, basket weaving), Denise Clausen (calligraphy, quilting), Sharon Erb (watercolors, charcoal), Shawn Geers (abstract acrylics), Arlon Gilliland (painting, masks), Catherine Hingson (watercolors), Dana Hulburt (acrylics, driftwood calligraphy), Patti Hoffert (paintings), Teresa Mahannah (paintings, wooden houses), Sue Miller (fused glass jewelry), Tim W. Moore (nature photography), Alita Pearl (silver jewelry, leather bags), Brendan Alex Phoenix (photographic art), Kent and Nancy Searles

(lapidary wire wrapping) and Merrie Jo Snow (paintings, prints).

New artists this year: Jim Beck (woodwork), Lynne Beck (stained glass mosaics), Kathy Compton (food-themed mixed media acrylics) and S hawn Ramirez (abstract mixed media acrylics).

Located inside the Kiawanda Community Center at 34600 Cape Kiwanda Dr., the Nestucca Valley Artisans Festival offers free parking and admission. Walkable from Cape Kiwanda and local restaurants, with nearby trolley and bus stops, it’s the perfect opportunity to buy coastal art.

The Nestucca Valley Artisans is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the cultural fabric of Pacific City and the surrounding coastal region through exhibitions, education, and community events that support local artists and celebrate creative expression.

Wildscapes art show opens at NCRD

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 04:23:57 GMT

Join Captain Thron Riggs, retired Columbia River Bar Pilot, at a reception for his show "Wildscapes" at the NCRD Gallery, 36155 9th Street in Nehalem, on Saturday, July 12 from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Riggs, who has a deep affinity for the Oregon Coast, and particularly the Nehalem Bay area, will be showing 40 new paintings—many showcasing this rugged landscape.

North County Recreation District (NCRD) is hosting the show for Captain Riggs who has generously offered 80% of the proceeds from the show to support the vital role NCRD plays in the health and wellness of the Nehalem Bay area community.

Since retiring from his active, unique standing as one of 14 bar pilots on the Columbia River bar, Captain Riggs continues to enjoy the bounty of life on the north Oregon Coast as an avid surfer, painter, musician (viola), radio host and maritime scholar. He began his career on the sea on merchant ships after graduation from high school and spent 27 years on ships, the last seven as Master. He became a Columbia River Bar Pilot in 1993.

Plan to attend the reception to meet Capt. Riggs on July 12 to meet Capt. Riggs—ever the quintessential sea captain—where he is always standing ready to deliver sea stories or the inside scoop on what it is really like to pilot a giant ship through the world's most dangerous bar.

"Wildscapes" will be up the entire month of July and is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. or weekends by appointment. Call 503-368-3203.

Marathon Mission: 1,500 Miles, 17 Colleges, 50 Days, 1 Cause

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 04:19:51 GMT

This summer, an Oregon community college president is hitting the pavement to spotlight a critical issue: The basic needs of community college students. Starting mid-June, Clackamas Community College President Dr. Tim Cook — an avid marathoner — will embark on a bold challenge to run to every community college in Oregon. That’s more than 1,500 miles over 50 days, averaging 32 miles per day.

The Running for Oregon Community College Students (ROCCS) campaign is a statewide awareness and fundraising initiative to highlight the challenges facing today’s students and to advocate for increased state funding for essential support services. Funds raised through ROCCS will be distributed directly to participating colleges to support students’ basic needs, such as food, housing, childcare and transportation.

Community college students represent some of the most vulnerable populations in the state. A survey from The Hope Center highlights the pressing needs of Oregon's community college students:

● Food insecurity: Approximately 41% of students reported experiencing food insecurity within the previous 30 days.

● Housing insecurity: About 52% of students faced housing insecurity in the past year, which includes difficulties such as affording rent, utilities, or frequent moves.

● Homelessness: Nearly 20% of students experienced homelessness in the past year, indicating a lack of stable and safe housing.

Oregon’s community colleges serve approximately 200,000 students, which is 52% of all public and private higher education enrollments in the state. Many of these students encounter significant obstacles, including housing and food insecurity, a lack of childcare, and transportation issues. Through this run, Oregon’s community colleges seek to highlight these challenges and generate support to address them.

“As a first-generation college student, I understand the transformative power of education,” Cook said. “Through ROCCS, I aim to shed light on the significant challenges our students face, rally support to address these critical needs, and raise awareness of the valuable role community colleges play in our state.”

“Tillamook Bay Community College is proud to support this mission and encourage the community to get involved,” TBCC President Dr. Paul Jarrell said. “This initiative not only raises awareness but also directly impacts our students by securing much-needed resources.”

Follow Cook’s training and daily progress during the run on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/run4orccstudents/ .

To donate or learn more about the run, visit http://run4orccstudents.org/ .

The ROCCS campaign is made possible through the generous support of Rivermark Community Credit Union, Johnson RV, and Daimler Truck North America.

Neah-Kah-Nie student earns perfect SAT score

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 04:20:09 GMT

For every 10,000 students who take the SAT, only seven will earn the coveted perfect score of 1600. That’s less than half a percentage of all test takers.

And Neah-Kah-Nie High School senior (‘26) Dillon Gardner is one of them.

“I was pretty shocked, I didn’t believe it at first,” Dillon said. “It was a quiet day in April and I opened up my computer to check on it and I see ‘1600.’ I was shocked and spent a minute or two just surprised because I didn’t expect to get a perfect score. But, it turned out to be real.”

Comically, Dillon (and his father Jared Gardner) joke that it was the mocha his mother [Hilary Foote] gave him on the morning of the test that made all the difference. But, Dillon detailed that taking the test twice probably played the most to his advantage.

“A few weeks prior I took the SAT a first time and got a score of 1480,” he said. “I decided to take another test because the second math section surprised me with its difficulty. I didn’t get the opportunity to answer half of the questions. So, I went back and took a different approach to solve those problems and thought I could do better, and I did.”

While a perfect score is a momentous achievement, prepping for the test was not even remotely Dillon’s main focus during his high school years. During his time as a Pirate, he’s been involved with the robotics team, speech and debate, and is a member of the Dungeons and Dragons club.

“The teachers and the tightness of the community are the main things I love about being here at Neah-Kah-Nie,” said Dillon. “Even though it’s very small, I get to know and see other students in multiple classes a day. But, it’s especially the teachers who put in the effort way beyond what they’re compensated for.”

“The Argonauts,” Neah-Kah-Nie’s robotics team, made it to the state competition for the first time since the COVID pandemic. The team placed sixth out of 24 teams.

“I’ve received quite a bit of mentoring from the volunteer programming assistant and I’m hoping to give back as much as I can,” Dillon said about returning to the team during his senior year.

In addition to taking AP level classes at Neah-Kah-Nie, Dillon is also virtually enrolled at Tillamook Bay Community College through which he hopes to finish his Associate’s in Computer Science by the end of his senior year.

“It’s taken some dedication to make it happen, but I’m working with my schedule and course load to get the degree done,” he said. “With a system integrated into the high school, it has been an awesome way to foster more learning with more advanced concepts through the college.”

While school is out for a few months, Dillion isn’t putting his education on pause for the summer. He received a full scholarship (tuition, room and board) to attend Carnegie Mellon’s National High School Game Academy . The rigorous, six week program allows students to explore and make actual computer games. By the end, students will have been assigned to two different teams and participated in building two different games.

“I’ve always loved working with games, looking at games, playing games, and, most especially, making games,” Dillon said. “So I thought, ‘Why don’t I get some practical experience?’ I’m super excited for it as it will be a learning-focused environment that preps me for college as it’s on a real college campus with college professors.”

Dillon believes that his passion for games is what made his application stand out to Carnegie Mellon.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re coming in with a bunch of skills,” he said. “I think they’re looking for passion in their applicants, an excitement to learn, and a willingness to put in the hard work needed.”

In his application essay, he described why “Outer Wild” was one of his favorite games.

“It’s a space game about exploring planets, but you’re stuck in a time loop every 22 minutes where the sun explodes and you’re sent back to the beginning,” Dillion said. “You explore runes of this ancient alien civilization and uncover why the sun’s exploding. The storytelling being done through the environments I thought was a pretty intriguing and a captivating experience.”

Dillon said he hopes to bring what he learns at Carnegie Mellon’s National High School Game Academy program back to his robotics team at Neah-Kah-Nie.

“I come from the Oregon Coast, which doesn’t have as many resources as one would expect from a big city. For a kid from here to go and take back information to their community, that’s what I believe [the program] is looking for and that’s something I’m absolutely planning on doing. I’m going to learn more about computer programming and apply that to robotics and try to teach my teammates whatever I can.”

Dillon has also been accepted to a year-long program in Algorithmic and Combinatorial Thinking hosted by the University of Pennsylvania. The program focuses on the math and science of computers. Dillon will be virtually attending the program.

“It will be graduate level mathematics for computer science. We’ll be talking about the mathematics behind how functions work and how to calculate the efficiency of various pieces of code. I really like computers, so I’m excited to take that and learn a little bit more about the math to combine with my practical experience,” he said.

Dillon said that his parents, through Google searches and knowledge of existing programs, were able to suggest these computer science programs because they thought they would be good fits for him.

“My parents are probably my biggest help,” Dillon said. “They’ve been really helpful in providing these opportunities.”

“We are pretty excited and proud,” said Jared. “Dillon is also very aware and appreciative of the resources that Neah-Kah-Nie has provided both in extracurriculars [at school and in the County] and also the collaboration with TBCC for expanded opportunities created by legislature a few years back. The recent levy * success hits home as so much of what has benefited our kids could have been threatened and Dillon recognizes how impactful it will be on other kids behind him.”

Dillon’s family owns and operates Nehalem River Ranch : a multi-species, pasture-based farm committed to the highest standards of animal welfare and land stewardship. And one might not necessarily expect a budding computer scientist to say he doesn’t have any memories of not growing up around cows.

“We practice a very anachronistic way of farming that is about soil, it’s not about tech,” Jared said. “There’s a big movement in farming to go high-tech with GPS driven tractors and the sorts. I intentionally have gone the other way. It’s a very simple, holistic life. It’s all about soil, plants, and animal health…But for us, it matters more that Dillon isn’t dragged into what I chose to do as an adult…What are you interested in? It’s going to meander as it should.”

As a young kid, Dillon remembers expressing an interest in computers; his parents presented him with a Raspberry Pi: a small computer.

“In this day and age, it’s pretty easy to access tech stuff, even on a ranch,” Dillon laughed. “We have power and that’s what you need to run a computer. I would just plug the [Raspberry Pi] into a monitor and keyboard and boot it up. I would practice installing various programs on it.”

Not only have Dillon’s parents sought out tools and opportunities of interest for him, they have also helped navigate the struggles Dillon faced in traditional school.

When he was in fourth grade, in-person school was not working out well.

“I was not really the most social of my peers back then,” Dillon said. “I didn’t get along with the other kids in elementary school. So, I decided to ask my parents to go to school online. I think that’s where my academics developed. I had resources and access to some challenging classes that helped foster my development. But, I also had some problems from online school that have plagued me, like a lot of procrastination.”

Jared relayed that at one point he received a call from the vice principal of the school saying that Dillon would need to be held back because he was getting D’s in his classes.

“The reality was, when we actually dug through the gradebook, he was not complying, wasn’t showing up to online classes, and wasn’t turning in assignments. But, he was getting good scores on tests.”

The decision was made for Dillon to return to in-person school during his freshman year.

“Something clicked in him, and now he’s engaged and has accelerated,” Jared said.

Neah-Kah-Nie Principal Christy Hartford agrees.

“We are so proud of Dillon and all that he has accomplished this year.”

With his sights set on his summer programs, life after high school isn’t far from his mind. He hopes his experiences will aide in his ambition of studying computer science and game design at a big college.

“I don’t have a perfect 4.0, there’s a few times where I didn’t get the best grades, so I need to bolster that with some other sources that firm up my portfolio to compensate for the error.”

His perfect SAT score is a good start to getting him into the college of his choice. And arguably the most appealing thing on Dillon’s resume is not perfection, but his ambition to be a life-long learner.

“The important thing for learning is being able to sink into it, be passionate , and determined.”

*Neah-Kah-Nie School District levy Measure 29-184 was approved by voters on the special May 2025 ballot. The levy is estimated to raise $2 million for N eah-Kah-Nie schools.

2025 Tillamook County July 4 Events

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 04:52:09 GMT

Meet Miss Tillamook Rodeo Chloe Rieger

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 20:24:17 GMT

At age 9, Chloe Rieger began showing horses in 4-H. At 10, she welcomed home her horse, Ruby, who she raised and trained herself.

“I’ve done about 90 percent of all her training, but that means that all her quirks are my fault too,” Rieger laughed. “It was a life-changing experience and we’ve been inseparable ever since. Horses have taught me so much about life and caring about something other than myself.”

Rieger grew up in Tillamook just south of town on Bewley Creek Road which she describes as “her little slice of heaven.”

Last year, Rieger took on the challenge of learning breakaway roping.

“I’ve always been interested in rodeo competition,” she said. “It looked fun and I decided that I wanted to learn. And then I decided to pair that with trying out to be the Rodeo Queen. I felt like it was a good way for myself and Ruby to get some exposure and experience.”

Rieger was crowned Miss Tillamook Rodeo in November after winning the queen pageant last June.

“It was a whole process with an interview, speech, a written test, and some modeling,” she recalled. “It was a challenge because I haven’t publicly spoken since high school. I knew that it was going to be tough, but I was excited to a have a challenge.”

As Rodeo Queen, Rieger has played a key role in prompting the Tillamook Rodeo by traveling to other Oregon rodeos, participating in radio and media interviews, and riding in numerous parades.

“Our rodeo has a homey, small-town feel,” she said, noting that the Tillamook Rodeo has sold more online tickets prior to the event than ever before.

And being a local, Rieger believes has helped connect more community members to the event.

“People who know me through work are noticing and asking about the rodeo because they saw that I’m the Rodeo Queen,” Rieger said.

Rieger is a 2022 graduate of Tillamook High School. Outside of rodeo, she own business “Gone West Esthetics,” coaches volleyball, and manages the new “Cowboy's Closet” at the Tillamook Farmers Co-Op .

“The Cowboy's Closet is a western wear boutique and it’s been a blast to facilitate,” Rieger said. “It went from just picking items out, to ordering, to managing the inventory. We carry newborn to XXXL sizes. The biggest seller have been hoodies and jeans, but I’m wanted to stock up on some cute t-shirts, dresses, and button ups.”

Catch Queen Rieger in the upcoming June Dairy Parade, Clover’s Day Parade, and Dory Day’s Parade. This year’s Tillamook Miss Rodeo Sponsors are: JAndy Oyster , Tillamook Farmers Co-Op , Hopkes Logging , Averill Recycling , and Tommie’s Cleaners .

Known as the “The Biggest Little Show on the Coast,” the Tillamook County Rodeo is a two-day event June 27 and 28 with action beginning at 7 pm each evening.

Rodeo general admission is $20 for adults, $10 for kids ages 5-10 (free on Friday for Kids’ Day), those under five are free (both days). Tickets can be pre-purchased at tillamookrodeo.com/tickets or at the gate.

The Tillamook Rodeo Association is also seeking to add to their membership. For more information about joining, email Hays at hays8151@gmail.com.

Eelgrass: Life giving in Netarts Bay

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 19:19:52 GMT

Friends of Netarts Bay, Watershed, Estuaries, Beach and Sea (WEBS) and Tillamook Estuaries Partnership (TEP) invite the community to spend a morning exploring the eelgrass beds of Netarts Bay.

Dr. Tony D’Andrea, project lead for Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Shellfish and Water Estuarine for Coastal Oregon (SEACOR), and Flynn DeLany, TEP’s Field and Data Scientist, will share about the importance of eelgrass in and around coastal waters. They will explain about the importance of the habitat they provide and their role as a nursery for juvenile crabs and fish.

“We are confident, you will walk away with a new appreciation for this amazing aquatic plant that not only helps to improve water quality, but also provides a vital living habitat for many species in and above the water,” said WEBS director Chrissy Smith.

Registration is required. Learn more and register for this event at on their website.

*Details: Wear boots or bring a change of shoes. Be prepared for Oregon Coast weather.

Kindness citations

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 04:58:43 GMT

Receiving a citation from a police officer is not something one really wants publicized. But, Tillamook Police officers are on the lookout to cite citizens for their kindness.

Back in April, the Friends of Tillamook Police joined “Kindness 911.” The program is a non-profit and support organization that connects local law enforcement agencies with those that they directly serve. The funds to participate in the program were raised when Tillamook Police officers spent an evening delivering Domino’s pizzas.

“As law enforcement, we hope to catch somebody doing something nice, a kindness act, and issue kindness citations,” Tillamook Police Chief Nick Troxel said. “We want to notice good things occurring in our community and create the opportunity for us to show some compassion and goodwill towards those folks and say, ‘Thanks for doing what you’re doing. We appreciate you.’”

Since joining the program, Tillamook Police have issued six kindness citations.

“It’s been a super fun way to engage with the community,” Chief Troxel said. “The feedback has been awesome.”

The following community members have been recognized for their positive actions in the community:

Upward Youth

HELPING OUT

Kindness Citation TPD-00128

Issued by: Officer Martinez

The Tillamook Police Department received a report of graffiti spray painted in the bowl of the Goodspeed Skate Park. Students from the Upward Youth of Living Water Fellowship offered to clean it up.

Cris Shirk

“COOKIE GRANDMA”

Kindness Citation TPD-00277

Issued by: Chief Troxel, Officer Olson and Executive Assistant Larson

Known for bringing home-baked cookies to the police department for over 15 years.

“It was very nice receiving this Kindness Citation from my friends at the Tillamook City Police Department,” Shirk said. “Great people work there. Thank you!”

Bay City Fire Chief Alan Christensen

LIFE FLIGHT

Kindness Citation TPD-00004

Issued by: Chief Troxel

Joint training with Tillamook Police, Tillamook Fire, Bay City Fire, and Adventist Health Ambulance helps keep local, first responders prepared for unique emergency circumstances.

Sandy

ROSES ARE RED

Kindness Citation TPD-00127

Issued by: Officer Martinez

Officer Martinez was parked near the Sacred Heart Catholic Church watching the school bus routes when Sandy walked up. She lives just down the street and she gave Officer Martinez a rose out of her garden and told him how much she appreciated seeing the Tillamook Police out in the community. She just wanted to say “Thank you.”

Donkey Basketball

HAVING A BALL

Kindness Citation TPD-00226

Issued by: Chief Troxel, Sgt. Harrell and Officer Saddler

Donkey Basketball has been a distinctive and entertaining tradition at Tillamook High School closely associated with the school’s annual Charity Drive. This event involves participants riding donkeys while attempting to play basketball, serving as a humorous and engaging fundraising activity. Charity Drive, a longstanding THS initiative, has been instrumental in raising funds for various causes, including scholarships and donations to Doernbecher Children’s Hospital. Over its 71-year history, the drive has amassed over $4.1 million in contributions. Donkey Basketball has traditionally been one of the highlights of this fundraising period, drawing significant community interest and participation.

Tina

THERE FOR OTHERS

Kindness Citation TPD-00126

Issued by: Officer Martinez

Tillamook Police dispatched to a two-vehicle non-injury crash. Tina witnessed the accident and took the extra time and effort to stop and make sure everyone was alright. She decided to stay with the driver until police arrived to ensure he was okay.

“I thought the Kindness Citation is a great idea,” Tina said. “It’s nice to be able to be recognized as a part of the community that wants to be able to help. The police are so polite!”

Tina

THERE FOR OTHERS

Kindness Citation TPD-00126

Issued by: Officer Martinez

“I thought the Kindness Citation is a great idea,” Tina said. “It’s nice to be able to be recognized as a part of the community that wants to be able to help. The police are so polite!”

Beach Cleanup Day

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 21:27:32 GMT

Join the Friends of Netarts Bay WEBS and Oceanside Action Partnership on Saturday, July 5 in the efforts to keep the coastal ecosystems clean and healthy by picking up debris left on the beaches before it gets washed into the ocean.

From Cape Meares to Netarts, there is often debris left on the beaches after the 4th of July festivities. This is an opportunity to clean up the beach with friends or family, or expand your community by teaming up with fellow volunteers.

Volunteers will meet at The Schooner Restaurant at 9 am and split into teams to cover as much area as possible.

“Volunteers of all ages will find the beach cleanup fun, educational, and rewarding,” said Marina Dreeben, WEBS Stewardship Coordinator.

To show appreciation for cleanup efforts, the Schooner Restaurant will be offering 10 percent meals for volunteers on the day of the event.

Advanced registration saves time, but is not required. To register and read more about this event visit: http://www.netartsbaywebs.org/events

Questions?

Contact info@netartsbaywebs.org

Tillamook School of Dance honors local hospice team

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 05:33:34 GMT

Beginning in 2014, the Tillamook School of Dance has dedicated admission funds from their spring dance showcase to local hospice care. Since its inception, the benefit show has raised nearly $60,000.

This year’s performance, “A Tribute to the King,” paid homage to Elvis Presley, and Tillamook School of Dance Owner and Director Pink Colleknon-Eggert said it was the studio’s most well attended show.

“The meticulous details that Scott Casey and I have been working on are like nothing I’ve ever done before,” she said, noting all the work to make the dancers hair and makeup look like Priscilla Presley. “We’re so proud of what we’ve created together.”

At the end of the showcase, the Jan Colleknon Memorial Scholarship ($1,000) was awarded to senior dancer Stella Hurliman. Pink’s mother, Jan Colleknon who founded the Tillamook School of dance, passed away in 2011 from Cerebellar Ataxia. The scholarship is given directly from the Colleknon family to a dancer who embodies the dedication and spirit that Jan brought to dance.

In attendance, were local Tillamook hospice workers who were honored during the showcase.

“We’re beyond grateful to Tillamook School of Dance, the Colleknon family, and everyone who this night possible,” Tillamook hospice nurse Sally Sutton said. “Your generosity means that more families in Tillamook County can receive the compassionate care and dignity they deserve during the hardest times of their lives. Thank you for standing with us.”

Tillamook hosts Cowbell Classic Pickleball Tournament

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 04:11:22 GMT

Let’s hear more cowbell for the fastest growing sport in the country: pickleball! The Tillamook Pickleball Club is bringing the competition and hype to the coast this month.

The “Cowbell Classic” will be hosted June 21-22 at the outdoor courts at Al Griffin Memorial Park in Bay City, as well as the indoor courts at the Tillamook County Fairgrounds. The pickleball tournament is round robin style with events in men’s, women’s, and mixed doubles that are also categorized by skill and age groups. The cost is $50 for one event, and $25 for an additional event. All participants receive a commemorative t-shirt and gift bag. A raffle and barbeque will be held at Al Griffin Park in Bay City following the completion of events on Saturday, June 21.

“This is our first tournament, so we’re trying to make it memorable,” Tillamook Pickleball Club President Roger Miller said. “We have enough players that are pretty active and have played in other tournaments. We felt that the time was right and we had some people who were willing to step up and pull this together.”

Proceeds from the tournament will help to improve the lighting for the indoor courts at the Tillamook County Fairgrounds.

“We play inside the dairy barn and it’s a barn,” Miller said. “It has outdated florescent lights that are way up in the roof and were never designed to fully illuminate pickleball or tennis courts.”

Updating the lighting for maximum visibility is a key safety improvement for tennis and pickleball, and will also allow the Fairgrounds to utilize the facility during the Fair and the off-season. The Tillamook High School girls tennis team also uses the indoor courts during their spring season.

On any day of the week a group from the Tillamook Pickleball Club gets together to play.

“Pickleball is gaining momentum everywhere and it’s gaining momentum here; we have 90 members in our club and we’re seeing it grow,” Miller said. “We welcome everyone and accommodate all levels.”

Miller encourages those who are curious about the sport to attend and watch the competition during the Cowbell Classic.

“Come learn more about pickleball, talk to members from the club, and see what it’s all about.”

As of publication, over 60 participants are expected to compete in the tournament. To learn more or to register, visit here. Registration is open through June 13 at 8 am.

T his year’s Cowbell Classic sponsors include: Berkshire Hathaway, Jenck Farms, Trask River Productions, Rob Trost Real Estate, The Mook Golf, Current Café – Oceanside, Pelican Brewery, Tillamook Family YMCA, Lay's Potato Chips, Franz Bakery, TAPA, Les Schwab Tires, Main Street Pizza, Tillamook Farmers Co-Op, NAPA, and Boyd's Implement.

To learn more about regular play and to join the Tillamook Pickleball Club, email: info@tillamookpickleball.org . Memberships is $150 for the year and includes unlimited play.

Community good works

Thu, 29 May 2025 05:14:23 GMT

More than a dozen community partners were selected to receive funds as a part of Tillamook High School’s Charity Drive Community Grants. In total, $57,000 was awarded. Some of the receiving organizations included: Tillamook Fire Department, Tides of Change, Tillamook VFW Post 2848, Tilly Tots Preschool, Tillamook Oddfellows, Compassion Tillamook, The Grinch Gang, and the Tillamook Early Learning Center. A complete list of recipients is below.

Tillamook High School’s 72nd annual Charity Drive was hosted Feb. 7 – 17 and raised over $200,000. As per tradition, a portion of funds are donated to Doernbecher Children’s Hospital, a portion are awarded as grants to community organizations, and another set of funds are awarded as scholarships to Tillamook High School seniors.

Rep. Javadi hosts town hall amidst 'busiest session in two decades'

Thu, 22 May 2025 04:50:17 GMT

Oregon State Representative Cyrus Javadi said the 2025 legislative session has been “productive” and the “busiest session in two decades” referring to the nearly 4,000 bills introduced since January.

Rep. Javadi hosted a town hall event at Tillamook Bay Community College on May 21. He invited constituents to attend and receive a legislative update as well as ask questions.

The town hall gathering began with an update on bills that could potentially have an impact in Tillamook County including the much anticipated transportation package.

“The Oregon Department of Transportation finds themselves in a 2 billion shortfall,” Rep. Javadi told the town hall gathering. “The department does not receive money from the income tax, but rather from the fuel tax and DMV fees. They miscalculated how much people would be driving and the impact on fuel efficient and electric vehicles. This has led to a gap.”

Rep. Javadi said that the bill is expected to be revealed on May 22.

“Tillamook could benefit with some desperately needed funds for Hwy 6,” he said.

Other updates included the reopening of Tillamook’s dialysis center that Rep. Javadi called a “big win,” as well as HB 3556 which would change what percentage of transient lodging taxes can be used for public services.

“This would be a huge win for rural communities…it would give our [community] leaders some flexibility,” he said.

Overall referring to the news about the state’s potential budget deficit, Rep. Javadi said that there’s “plenty of revenue coming in, it’s a spending problem that we have…we need to go in and find out what matters the most. There’s a lot of pressure and talk about whether to tax people or not.”

Rep. Javadi also mentioned that he has sent letters to Congress and the White House concerning the freezing of federal dollars that were being utilized for housing projects on the Oregon Coast.

Coffee with a Cop

Thu, 15 May 2025 05:23:18 GMT

Since becoming Tillamook Police Chief, Nick Troxel has made it a point to connect with the community.

“I’ve spent the first six months as police chief building the foundations,” he told the Tillamook Newsie. “Now, in the second six months I want to focus on community engagement; I want to tell the story of all the good things we are doing and recognize the community.”

This past week, the Tillamook Police Department hosted one of their outreach programs: “Coffee with a Cop.” Every few months, community members are invited to attend the low-key gather to meet and dialogue with the officers of the Tillamook Police Department.

“The Tillamook Police Department believes in fostering positive relationships with the community, and ‘Coﬀee with a Cop’ is an initiative aimed at strengthening those connections,” Troxel said. “By engaging in casual conversations over a cup of coﬀee, both residents and oﬃcers can build mutual understanding and enhance cooperation.”

Coffee with a Cop has regularly been held at the Starbucks next to Denny’s in Tillamook. Follow the Tillamook Police Department on Facebook for an announcement about the next event.

Developing housing on ‘unbuildable’ land

Wed, 07 May 2025 16:58:22 GMT

Jeff Wong owns, what’s viewed as, a very difficult lot to build on. It’s in a flood zone, zoned commercial, and particularly small. It’s not exactly a developers dream. But, Wong is determined to show that, despite the challenges, a little creativity and persistence can create housing opportunities in Tillamook County.

Wong, owner of CS Fishery (Garibaldi), saw an urgent need for housing during the pandemic.

“Covid took out a lot of housing inventory when people decided to come down here full time and not rent out their homes,” Wong said. “And then I think people also did investment buying and with that came short-term rentals. Many of my employees could no longer work out here. They wanted to work and I depended on them a lot in the summer for seasonal help, but they just couldn’t find any long-term housing for those windows. Out of survival for, not only for myself, but other businesses, we needed workforce housing. That’s how this came about.”

Wong detailed that he walked through the steps to get a permit in the floodplain, and hired an architect to draw up plans for a building: four small apartments to occupy the second floor and a commercial kitchen on the first level.

“The facility will have a kitchen to support my business so I can cut and sell my fish and other seafood products,” Wong said.

Wong fishes in local Tillamook Coast waters for many species including: salmon, black rockfish, tuna, and lingcod. The majority of his catch is contracted for the Oregon Food Bank and Meals for Seniors, but some is also sold to restaurants or sold direct to consumers.

The uniqueness of combining housing and agriculture, has opened up some grant opportunities for Wong’s proposed housing plans on Anchor Street in Rockaway Beach. The project received $80,000 from the Tillamook County Housing Production Solutions Fund this year.

“I’m trying to create my own little ecosystem with housing that supports my business and other businesses,” he said.

Tillamook County Housing Coordinator Parker Sammons said that the Wong’s project application appealed to the Housing Commission because requested funds could feasibly jumpstart the project.

“It’s very representative of both the needs and technical solutions here,” Sammons said. “[Wong’s] project is on a very difficult lot. It is dedicated as workforce housing, which is a huge benefit in the community, but potentially there’s a hope to allow other businesses to utilize it. All those elements together hit all the check marks and goals for both the Housing Commission and the Grant Fund. We had big projects and small project apply. But, one of the keywords that I hold onto from the mission statement of the Housing Commission is we seek ‘obtainable’ solutions. It’s very good to continue to push forward on larger buildings that really move the needle on the housing crisis here. But, it’s also really important that we support local, smaller projects that are obtainable and can be built sooner and utilize the land that is available."

As per his application, Wong has dedicated his multi-unit building to be used for workforce housing for 30 years. Residents who make 80-120 percent of the area’s median income will be eligible to rent the two-bedroom apartments. Wong has also applied for a $20,000 per unit tax credit from the Oregon Department of Agriculture for housing agricultural employees. If the tax break is awarded, Wong’s monies from the Tillamook Housing Production Solutions Fund will be reallocated to other projects.

Wong hopes his model makes others reconsider land that is viewed as unbuildable.

“I want to make this open source where other people can take this model and utilize this same kind of footprint elsewhere.”

The full circle-moment of the entire story: Wong unknowingly inspired Sammons along his career path.

“The first time I met Jeff was in 2019 when I was coming down here for a business school class,” Sammons recalled. “We sat with the community support advisory, and after hearing all their business models, I asked: ‘What is your biggest challenge?’

Wong said: housing.

“It kind of diverted my entire life path,” Sammons said. “Over the next few years I went into the world of housing issues and investigated all sorts of different solutions and protocols. And here I am in Tillamook County several years later, helping to work on this exact project, which is where my interest in the housing market really kicked off.”

‘Charming Mothers’ build-a-bracelet trail

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 04:36:56 GMT

In honor of Mother’s Day, from May 5-10 businesses in downtown Tillamook are hosting a free build-a-bracelet trail.

“We’re always trying to do family-friendly events and get people to town and get them to businesses they might have never been to before,” Tillamook Revitalization Association [TRA] President Kristy Lombard said. “There’s no obligation to buy anything. But, people are encouraged to look around.”

Presented by TRA, mothers are invited to collect their silver bracelet base and map at ReCurrent. Then, participants can visit the sixteen different business in downtown Tillamook; each with a different collection of beads and charms.

“There will be a random array at each location, so people can build their bracelets how they’d like,” Lombard said. “You won’t have a bracelet like anyone else.”

Participating locations include: ReCurrent, West Elliot, Sunflower Flats, Madeline's, Coast Printing, Tillamook Vision Center, Shear Bliss, Oregon Coast Dance Center, 1st Security Bank, Pelican Brewing, Kristy Lombard Pottery, Downie's Downtown, East on West, Salty Raven, Lucky Bear Soap, and SaraSota's. Check each businesses’ individual operating hours.

Tillamook Revitalization Association an all-volunteer group of local business owners and employees.

“We have pride in downtown and want people to know that Tillamook has stuff going on,” Lombard said.

Run to the ‘Top of the World’

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 05:52:01 GMT

The Ultramook 50k & 30k is a race like none other. Traveling the Tillamook Ridge Trail, the race is made up of a larger 30k loop and a smaller 20k loop. Participants will either run the larger 30k loop and finish or run both loops to finish a total of 50k.

This year’s race will be hosted July 12 at 8 a.m. The race is staged at the Hydrangea Ranch in Tillamook, with the starting line directly across the Kilchis River from the farm. The rest of the race runs through the Tillamook State Forest and BLM managed lands.

Seventy percent of the race is on abandoned logging roads and trails that are well traveled by wild elk and other wildlife. 25% of the race is on remote, infrequently traveled logging roads. The 30k has 3,719 ft. of total ascent with a max elevation of 2,114 ft. The 20k has an additional 2,762 feet of ascent with a max elevation of 1,795 feet. The 50k has 6,481 feet of total climb.

Early registration ends May 1; the 50k cost is $135 and the 30k is $125. Price includes tech shirt (register by June 20), a well-marked route with aid at least every 10k, post-race meal and beverages, and professional quality photos. Camping is available at the Hydrangea Ranch the night before and after the event.

For additional information and to register visit: ultramook50k.com

Proceeds from the event benefits Ultimook nonprofit with the mission of developing young runners in both mind and body via the Ultimook Track Club and the Ultimook Running Camp .

Ultimook Track Club hosts youth summer running and track & field programs

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 17:42:34 GMT

Have a young runner? Each summer Ultimook Track Club facilitates a youth summer running program for Tillamook-area athletes.

“Our mission is to develop young runners in both mind and body. Young runners require a fun, supportive environment to aid in aerobic development,” Ultimook Youth Director Chelsea Yarnell said.

The Ultimook Youth Track Club is a running club designed for athletes entering PreK-eighth grades.

“Last year we have over 80 athletes that participate in our club,” Yarnell said. “Each of our practices educate young athletes on the different elements of running such as warm ups, dynamic drills, running workouts, and stretching. We modify all activities based on ages and break our crew into age groups who are overseen by coaches with running and fitness backgrounds.”

Registration is currently open. The 2025 season will run June 3 - July 31 with practices for all age groups meeting on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30-6:30 at the Tillamook Junior High School. Each group is led by a coach (or two) with experience in the areas of running, track & field, or fitness. The cost to participate is $110 for the season; financial assistance is available.

“Our practices are always a highlight of my day,” Yarnell said. “Our coaches love to share their passion for running with the community, and in return, we’re always rewarded with so much enthusiasm and joy from the kids on our team.”

Coming back for a second year is the Ultimook Track & Field Day Camp. The camp will focus on introducing athletes to the various events in track in field including: running races, relays, hurdles, long jump, shot put, discus, and javelin. The day camp will be hosted at the Tillamook High School Track Monday, Wednesday, Fridays from July 7 -18 and culminate with a mock track meet on July 18. The camp is designed for those entering grades K-8. The cost for the camp is $50.

For more information or to register, visit ultimooktrackclub.com or email ultimookyouthtrackclub@gmail.com.

Cloverdale bookstore is a ‘novel-ty’

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 17:14:13 GMT

Displayed inside the bay windows of the iconic purple house off Hwy 101 is a charming collection of used books. Their home, a 1930s riverside house, is now a bookshop. Stepping into the store is like experiencing a story in itself.

Inside, the wide, wood plank floors (that I’m sure are original to the house) creak as you walk through the shop. The sound only adding to the antiquated atmosphere. Small genre sections are noted. Beautiful spines of carefully selected books line the shelves. Vintage décor is sprinkled throughout the little room. Eddy, the shop kitten, softly jumps up on the display table to greet me.

At the back of the building, the French doors are propped open, as my visit falls on one of the first warm days of spring. Out past the deck the Nestucca River flows by, full from recent heavy rains. The shop owner, Linda Parkison, boils some water in a copper kettle for tea. I take a seat and absorb the setting. Eddy plays energetically with ball at my feet. As the tea brews, I settle in and prepare to hear a charming story: the one about the welcoming, whimsical bookshop owner in Cloverdale , Oregon.

Parkison opened book-ish: Used Books +Vintage Decor a year ago after deciding to relocate to the Oregon Coast. With her collection of used books, she transformed the iconic house into a one-room store.

“You can’t miss it. It’s the cutest little purple cottage: tiny, but mighty with heart,” Parkison said. And it’s true, a few months back on my passing drive through town, I took note of the unique shop. My curiosity is what led to that day’s interview.

Inside book-ish, there’s a curated inventory: mostly used books of various genres, a few new titles, and some gift items such as calendars and journals. Parkison is also quick to point out a beloved section: children’s books.

“It makes sense that often our favorite books, that really hold a permanent place in our hearts and began our lifelong love of reading in the first place, would be something we read as a child and then read and share with our kids,” she said. “My favorite books are a tie between Sam, Bangs, and Moonshine (1967 Caldecott Award Winner) and Charlotte’s Web.”

Her statement reminds me of the numerous storybooks throughout my childhood read by loving family members, and now the bedtime stories that are told in my own home.

Parkison points out that book-ish is only the second, dedicated bookstore in Tillamook County. The other, Cloud & Leaf Bookstore, is located in Manzanita nearly 50 miles north.

“People are really welcoming and happy,” Parkison said. “We’re trying to make Cloverdale a little destination stop. I'm always happy to order a book I don't have in the shop, or try track down something that's maybe been out of print. I welcome requests. As much as I love collecting books and sharing and connecting with other people who love books, when it comes to the business part of knowing and owning a bookstore, I’m still a complete rookie and learning as I go.”

The possibility of discovering a new read or a rare vintage find makes the novelty of South County’s own bookstore an enjoyable stop. As I thank my host for the tea and depart, a feeling of warmth resonates, like I’d just met a character from a really good book.

“Coming to the Coast has always been my happy place to get away from Portland,” Parkison said. “Who doesn’t just visit and say: ‘Someday I’d like to open a bookstore and retire. A lot of people say when they come in: ‘Do you feel like it’s a dream?’”

book-ish is located at 34380 S Hwy 101, Cloverdale. For hours, follow book-ish on Facebook or Instagram.

Lights and sirens for pizza delivery

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 05:17:01 GMT

There were a few double takes when Tillamook community members started seeing Domino’s Pizza signs mounted to Tillamook Police vehicles on Saturday night.

No need to fret, there were no pizza emergencies, but instead a fundraiser for the Friends of Tillamook Police’s new partnership with Kindness 911.

From 4-9 pm on March 29, five police officers helped deliver Domino’s pizzas in exchange for a percentage of the sales during that time.

“The officers and the reactions we had from those who we were delivering it to were great. People absolutely loved it,” Tillamook Police Chief Nick Troxel said. “Some of them rolled up with lights and sirens. Some people thought it was a prank and didn’t know what was going on. And of course, we were all armed with a bunch of stickers for the kids in the house. I can’t think of one negative thing that went on with this.”

The fundraiser was able to raise the needed $2,500 to partner with Kindness 911: a non-profit and support organization that connects local law enforcement agencies with those they directly serve.

“As law enforcement, we hope to catch somebody doing something nice, a kindness act, and issue kindness citations,” Troxel said. “We want to notice good things occurring in our community and create the opportunity for us to show some compassion and goodwill towards those folks and say, ‘Thanks for doing what you’re doing. We appreciate you.’”

The funds raised will help purchase materials for the program such as citation cards.

The unique fundraiser was the first of its kind for Domino’s. Troxel recalled pitching the idea to the location’s manager as an opportunity to “deliver kindness one pizza at a time.”

“It's important that we maintain that connectivity with our community and build those relationships during these kinds of interactions,” Troxel said. “So, when they're calling for help, they know that: ‘Hey, wait a minute, that officer he delivered a pizza to my door. I know that he’s a good guy. I had a short two minute conversation with him.’ Those things are priceless.”

Troxel was named Tillamook Police Chief in July 2024, and since then has been working to restore the reputation of the department.

“One of my goals is to ensure that we are enhancing our connection with our community and connecting with them in different, positive ways which is done through each contact. It’s all about customer service.”

During the fundraiser with Domino’s, 11 additional delivery drivers were on staff and Troxel remembered them barely being able to keep up with the demand.

“It was an excellent group of people and they were super thrilled to invite us into their workspace. We couldn’t have done it without them,” Troxel said. “It was an extremely fun evening. My gratitude and appreciation to Domino’s. They’ve been an excellent partner. We have a lot of great businesses in town, but they have really leaned forward in wanting to connect with the community. I so sincerely appreciate all the work Domino’s and their team did.”

To support the Friends of Tillamook Police, visit friendsoftillamookpolice.org .

Local writer’s teleplay wins at comedy festival

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 00:19:50 GMT

It’s the “New Guy’s” first day on the job at the family-owned Smart Motors car dealership. Will he successfully fix, or steal it off the lot? Only the hours left until it’s time to clock out will tell.

The storyline has all the makings for a sitcom, exactly how Bay City writer Robin Weber intended it.

ANGST*, an acronym for “Another New Guy Starts Today,” won “Best Comedy Teleplay” at the Portland Comedy Film Festival back in December. The sitcom focuses on the new employees that are always coming and going from the car dealership. Every new “guy” has their own motives for accepting the job; some of them regret having done so, others cause chaos, either intentionally, or unintentionally. What they all have in common is each one is gone by the end of the episode making way for the next one.

“It’s that kind of angst that you feel when you’ve worked at a place for a really long time and there’s a new person starting that day,” Weber said.

A former bookstore owner, Weber, was looking for a different creative outlet and decided to try writing sitcoms.

“I’ve always been interest in writing, but find it very difficult to do,” he said. “But, I always liked to read short stories. It’s similar in a sitcom, in that 22 minutes it’s the epitome that every word has to count.”

The written sitcom placed first out of an estimated 500 entries at the Portland Comedy Film Festival. The festival was founded by author and retired filmmaker Mikel Fair and now has 20 categories for written and produced projects and nearly 100 active judges.

“It was a lot of fun meeting and watching people’s projects there,” Weber said of the festival. “I won for the half hour teleplay script pilot, but there was also a category for films that had been completed.”

To write the pilot, Weber read some books about screenwriting for TV, and then spent three months writing ANGST*. Some of the plotlines were inspired by Weber’s own time working at a car dealership.

“I always wondered why there’s never been a sitcom at an actual car dealership,” he said. “They’ve been in garages, gas stations, repair shops, or custom shops, but never actually at a dealership. There’s just so much going on in a dealership; it’s like a whole world unto itself of all the different departments. And believe me, they all have their own issues.”

The dream is to have the sitcom picked up by a television producer, so Weber has created the “Bible” (more details for the premise of the show) as well as the second episode in the series.

“I’m kind of refining it a bit because if I get somebody interested in the first one, their first question is going to be: ‘What else do you have?’”

Weber is happy to share the teleplay with whoever would like to read it in its entirety. To receive a copy, he can be reached at books@bookbroker.com.

‘Waste’ no time: Meet the owners of Coastal Junkers

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 03:14:48 GMT

It’s time for spring cleaning. Declutter the house. Deep clean the garage. Spruce up the yard. But, what to do with all that junk? Don’t leave it in your trunk.

Call Coastal Junkers .

Local couple Halle Hartell, 21, and Wyatt Myers, 25, started the company in December 2023. Together, they built a business that offers residential and commercial junk removal, cleanouts, and demolition and construction site cleaning services. Their service area covers Astoria to Tillamook.

With their branded truck, the couple often shows up to a job together ready to haul away anything unwanted. But, they truly believe that one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Yet, each haul doesn’t necessarily end up in the landfill. Sometimes, items are donated, rehomed, or recycled.

“The systems we have, in terms of how your junk is taken care of, is a priority for us,” Hartell said. “Our number one concern is how to correctly and efficiently divvy up where things are going so that all materials are getting their best life.”

Hartell and Myers each recently completed Tillamook County’s Master Recyclers program, which provided a wealth of knowledge to the young business owners about the trash and recycling industry.

“We’re going to take care of your items properly,” Hartell said. “We can tell the customer why we can’t take something and give them advice on what to do with it. If it does have an opportunity for another life, what is the best and most ethical thing to do with it.”

Hartell and Myers understand that people’s “stuff” can be hard to part with. Both said they like to take the time to connect with customers and understand how best they can assist in their goals.

“Hearing p eoples’ stories about why they’re getting rid of something is fascinating and sometimes heartbreaking. Stuff can be an emotional burden for people, and there’s no judgment here. Maybe it wasn’t easy for you to get ride of something. How can we make this process easier for you? We’re just thinking of how can we get [your wishes] accomplished.”

Relationships and professionalism are a huge part of what they do, and it starts as soon as they pull up to a job site.

“Each customer deserves a clean truck and our crew to be in a good mood when we show up,” Myers said. “They deserve that. No matter who the customer is.”

Hartell and Myers’ commitment to their customers is just the start of their passion for their community. Myers grew up in north Tillamook County. The duo met through mutual friends after Hartell relocated from Missouri and was working in real estate. After becoming a couple, they sought out a business where they could spend more time with each other, and give back to the area. Coastal Junkers has sponsored local events and the two have dedicated time to local cleanups.

“Living here my whole life, I am beyond grateful to be here and let alone have a business,” Myers said.

Coastal Junkers offers a menu of prices for services on their website, but can also provide free estimates for a project. And, more likely than not, you’ll see their truck roll through your area and be reminded of that pile of debris in the yard that needs to go.

“People will see the number on the truck and call us and say: ‘We just saw you in our neighborhood, can you turn around?’”

For more information visit coastaljunkers.com. Contact them at 503-739-3434 or junk@coastaljunkers.com .

'Hank the Cowdog' steals the show

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 04:02:14 GMT

Bulls & Broncs (indoor rodeo event) was a sold out show on March 8, bringing out a crowd of 1,000 to the Tillamook County Fairgrounds.

Check out the video The Newsie captured of “Hank the Cowdog” that has 3.7 million views on social media!

Country Coffee franchise opens in Tillamook

Sun, 02 Mar 2025 04:02:22 GMT

There’s a new place to caffeinate up in Tillamook: Country Coffee .

The business opened on March 1 in the former location of Antonette’s Kitchen (located directly across the street from the Adventist Health hospital building).

The Tillamook location is one of the newest for the brand, joining 13 other locations scattered around Washington and Oregon including ones in Gresham, Hood River, Bend, Portland, and their original location in Boring.

County Coffee Tillamook is a drive-thru coffee stand operated by franchisee owner Brit Campbell. Permanent hours are still being set, so customers are encouraged to follow “ Country Coffee Tillamook ” on Instagram for updates.

Food Roots focuses on school gardens, closes retail marketplace

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 05:02:41 GMT

Food Roots will dedicate the majority of its efforts to school gardens and supporting food producers in 2025.

The non-profit was the recent recipient of a nearly $25,000 grant from the BottleDrop Fund of the Oregon Community Foundation . The grant will be utilized to fund the Learning Gardens at three Tillamook County schools: Liberty Elementary, East Elementary, and Garibaldi Grade School.

“We have amazing school partnerships to nurture this education and food growth. We're excited to be working with teachers and have these gardens be a part of their classrooms,” Food Roots Executive Director Lindsay Ward said. “Then, all the produce that's harvested from these gardens will be donated to the school food pantries. We're able to provide materials, staff time, and volunteer recruitment efforts towards these gardens as a result of coordination between this and other wonderful grants we’ve received.”

The narrowed scope of work to aide school gardens and support local food producers comes after a branch of Food Roots closed late last year.

“The Marketplace program was concluded,” Ward said. “Some other food hubs have also found that it is ‘impossible,’ we don’t like to use that word, though impossible to support farmers, cover the overhead, and supply affordable prices to support local food equity. It was not a sustainable model. We are always learning and evolving.”

The Marketplace (located at the Port of Tillamook Bay) closed on Dec. 18, 2024. It had served for years as a retail store (at one point also located on Main Ave. in Tillamook) where customers could shop from a collection of locally produced products.

“There are challenges that nonprofits are going through in today's funding landscape. Grants are becoming more competitive, and the types of projects being funded have been changing. Unfortunately, we didn't receive a lot of grants that our Marketplace was tied into,” Ward said. “To adapt, we've narrowed the scope of our focuses. We are making a greater impact with the capacity and funding that we have.”

While the Marketplace was how many were introduced to the organization, it never was the sole programing. In addition to school gardens, Food Roots has received grants to continue cultivating the local food network by connecting institutions and businesses with local food producers, and administering the Individual Development Account (IDA) program, a partnership with CASA of Oregon that supplies a five-to-one savings match to enrolled farmers and food producers.

“We aim to bolster the number of enrollment applications we receive by increasing knowledge of this opportunity. Those who want to establish or expand their food business and need financial support to do so are encouraged to apply on our website,” Ward said. “Food Roots acts as an IDA administrator, which includes reviewing business plans and helping each participant enroll in the necessary financial and business classes to help them achieve their vision for their business.”

The program is open to entrepreneurs with new or existing businesses. The application period to enroll this year begins in July. The number of accepted applicants for 2025 is contingent on available funding.

CASA of Oregon's communication team said: "Without legislative action in 2025, the statewide IDA initiative could see an estimated 50% reduction in the number of Oregonians that can open an IDA each year. It is imperative that the legislature invest in this vital initiative to ensure that more Oregonians have a chance to achieve economic independence and build generational wealth."

Food Roots is actively recruiting for volunteers, board members, and donations to support their ongoing mission to “grow a robust and equitable food system in Tillamook County through community engagement, education, food producer support, and improved access to local food.”

“We’re looking to involve the community and make sure that we’re giving everyone what they need,” Ward said. “Investment—whether your time or donation—is really impactful. If you pour into us, your contribution pours back into your own community.”

Food Roots plans to host community listening sessions to hear thoughts from the public about the organization’s focus.

“We're really excited to hear everyone’s voices as we work to provide the best impact we can,” Ward said. “We're really grateful to all those who donate, volunteer, and enthusiastically collaborate with us so we can continue growing our shared vision of a more sustainable, healthy, and connected community rooted in local food. Shelly Bowe's vision of fostering community-based food programs that mutually support and nourish our farmers, fishers, and food-makers remains the focus of where we're going with you.”

For more information, visit foodrootsnw.org .

Tillamook 2025 brand campaign focuses on Morning Star

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 06:09:26 GMT

Beginning 116 years ago, the Morning Star took sail to deliver a boatload of dairy to the people of the Pacific Northwest. Aboard: products from Tillamook County.

Tillamook farmers had more butter and milk than you could imagine. The problem? Tillamook is isolated. There were no real roads connecting the Tillamook Bay to the growing Port of Portland. And the rugged coastal mountain range was dangerous.

So, they took to the sea.

After months of work and many failures, they found success in the Morning Star. It became Oregon’s first official ship.

Building on the “Extraordinary Dairy” brand platform that was introduced by Tillamook County Creamery Association and Leo Chicago, initially launched last May, the 2025 brand campaign tells the tales of the Tillamook origin story which starts with the brand’s dairy boat.

On January 1st 1855, a speech was made — they christened the boat The Morning Star of Tillamook; it was the first boat ever registered in Tillamook County. While they had no grease for the skids, the boat was ready for launch. When they removed the blocks to let her slide into the water, the boat didn’t budge. It sat there for four days. Finally, the Morning Star made its way to water. It sailed up the coast, into the mouth of the Columbia River, arriving to Portland to deliver the world its first taste of Tillamook dairy. Two centuries later, the boat remains a strong symbol of our commitment, and a testament to the local culture.

“Through this new work, we’ve crafted a tale that connects the brand’s past with its present,” said Sarah Block, Executive Vice President, Creative Director at Leo Chicago. “The Morning Star is more than an origin story for Tillamook; it is core to their DNA to do whatever it takes to deliver extraordinary dairy.”

Each piece of creative in this campaign is a layer of the brand’s backstory and the eras of their history of bringing delight to consumers through dairy. And helps answer the curiously of the “little boat” pictured on all of Tillamook’s dairy products.

The media strategy includes a robust mix across premium streaming platforms, social media, and digital placements.

*Content provided by Tillamook County Creamery Association

Jones-Knudson Apartments open

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 06:07:15 GMT

The Jones-Knudson Apartments in downtown Tillamook celebrated their ribbon cutting ceremony on Saturday, Feb. 8.

The project has been in the works since 2019 to bring more housing options to the workforce of Tillamook County.

Owner Lisa Greiner purchased the building in 2018. The first level of the building was renovated to house her dance studio: Oregon Coast Dance Center . The second story was not set up as housing.

“People always ask me what was up there before: it was just one, big, gigantic open room we were using for storage,” Greiner said. “So, it’s super surreal to not have it be storage up there and actually see this come to fruition.”

Greiner had considered adding apartments to the second floor, but didn’t originally find it feasible. Then, a $200,000 grant from the Oregon Main Street Program got the project rolling. The project received additional support from: Tillamook County Housing Commission ($80,000), Tillamook Urban Renewal Agency ($100,000 forgivable loan, $100,000 low interest loan), and Senate Bill 1530 ($274, 075).

“Thank you to all of those sources,” Greiner said. “And thank you to Oregon Coast Bank because they were the only bank that actually trusted in us. I went to 10 other banks…Oregon Coast Bank saw the viability of this project.”

The funding helped add four apartments at 312 Main Ave in Tillamook. Of the four apartments, two remain unrented. The two available apartments are each two bedroom, 1 bathroom, and a little over 1,000 square feet each.

Additional details and rental information can be found here at Zillow.com .

‘Lessor’ is more

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 03:52:22 GMT

Local couple takes over Bunker Grille at The Mook

The Mook at Alderbrook Golf Course was recently awarded “Large Business of the Year” at the Tillamook Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual Community Awards Banquet.

And now, Eric and Trina Lessor are ready to bring a dining experience, that matches the award-winning golf experience, to the property.

The Lessors took over the Bunker Grille and Event Center , located on the second level of the clubhouse at The Mook, in October.

“Everything just fell into place,” Eric said. “It’s a new adventure for us. It’s a challenge because this place hasn’t really been successful yet, but it really could be. This is just a beautiful facility.”

Eric had been catering in the area for years.

“I like to cook, make things, and be creative,” Eric said. “I like it when I watch people taste [the food that I make] and you see their eyes light up and come to life.”

He recalls learning to cook at an early age.

“Back when I was 12-years old, I had to cook Saturday night dinners,” Eric said. “My grandmother had cancer, so she would sit in her chair and tell me to do this, and then this.”

Since his grandmother’s kitchen, Eric has expanded an interest in cooking a variety of food, as is reflected in the Bunker Grille’s menu: Italian-style dishes, burgers, and house-smoked meats.

A standout item is the 1/3-pound ground brisket burger. Weekly specials, including burger of the week, are a nod to Eric’s continuous innovation.

“Our goal is to have people think of us when they want to go out to eat,” Trina said. “We really want to be family-friendly, and we have the space to host your special event or business meeting.”

The Bunker Grille and Event Center is open to the public, and serves lunch and dinner Monday 11 a.m. – 7 p.m., and Thursday – Saturday 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. The restaurant features a full bar.

In addition to their main dining room, the Bunker Grille and Event Center also has two rooms that can be booked for events. One of the spaces is designated the “game room” and features foosball, air hockey, and plenty of comfy seating.

This Valentine’s Day, the Bunker Grille and Event Center has a special dinner menu for two. The menu includes hor d'oeuvres of sweetheart caprese skewers; shrimp cocktail or sautéed scallops appetizers; an apple blossom or Caesar salad; choice of cupid’s pinwheel steak, parmesan salmon royale, or roasted portobello mushroom; paired with stuffed red pepper, macaroni and cheese, or roasted red potatoes; and for desert: crimson brownie a la mode. The menu will be available for dinner Friday and Saturday Feb. 14-15. The cost is $60 a person. Reservations can be made by calling 971-289-4653.

Valentine’s Day is just one of the many special evenings the Bunker Grille and Event Center hosts. Since opening, the Lessors have hosted a family-friendly New Year’s Eve party, family game nights, and special dinners for high school dances.

For restaurant updates, upcoming specials and events, follow the Bunker Grille and Event Center (new Facebook page) here . Kids eat free on Thursday with a paying adult meal. Veterans and first responders receive 10 percent off every day.

In addition to the Bunker Grille and Event Center, Eric Lessor is the owner of Oregon Coast Wireless/Computer Support & Services and Trina Lessor operates Hope Inspired School & Tutoring4Success.

The Bunker Grille is located at The Mook at Alderbrook at: 7300 Alderbrook Rd, Tillamook.

Homing pigeon delivers WWII love note

Sun, 09 Feb 2025 18:57:30 GMT

Pigeon Handler Specialist Sylvia Tartas received only one message during her tour in Tillamook County, and it had nothing to do with the war.

The Pigeon Loft exhibit recently opened at the Tillamook Air Museum . The exhibit highlights the history of the United States Navy WAVES: Women Accepted for Voluntary Emergency Service. These women trained homing pigeons that were carried on airships and utilized during radio silence in World War II. The WAVES oversaw a pigeon loft at Naval Air Station Tillamook.

Homing pigeons were not often used on the West Coast, so WAVES Pigeon Handler Specialist 2nd Class Tartas received only one message during her service. On a plaque in the exhibit recounts the message:

“What are you doing tonight, Red?” (asking her out on a date.)

It’s said that Sylvia later remarked: “Yes, I sure did go out with him!”

Tartas' anecdote along with several other photos and stories decorate the exhibit at the Tillamook Air Musem . The exhibit is open an and included with admission. Tillamook County residents receive free admission to the museum the third Sunday of the month.

A full story about the WAVES will be featured in the March edition of the Tillamook PUD Ruralite Magazine.

Where to find art this February

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 18:00:00 GMT

“Heart for the Art” awards given

First, second, third, People’s Choice, and Youth awards were given out at the “Heart for the Art” artist reception on Feb. 2. The art exhibition is sponsored by for Adventist Health Tillamook and is on display at North County Recreation District through the month of February. A portion of artist sales are dedicated to fitness scholarships that promote heart health in north Tillamook County.

First place: Bosch: U.S. Fancy by Connie Vincent

Second place: Piers End by Hannah Hood

Third place: Evard, The Sunset Bull by Lisa Miska

People’s Choice: Shimmer by Jack Ryser

Youth Award: Fish by Kayla Bakker

Bay City Arts Center Artist of the Month: Lisa Allen

It’s all about pop culture in the 20th century.

Using a laser cutter, and incredibly thin paper, Lisa Allen reimagines iconic images and art.

“With paper, if you make a mistake, it’s not that big of a deal. But, I am basically burning the paper,” she said. “I call myself an artist, but I feel like I’m more of a computer programmer…so with the laser, I have to know the speed, the power, the line density. I’m using one millimeter paper, so I mean, I could incinerate that if I had the settings wrong.”

Each piece is titled using a famous person’s first and middle name. Like Audrey Kathleen, Elvis Aaron, and Michael Joseph.

Her work will be featured as Artist of the Month for the Bay City Arts Center through the month of February. An open house and artist reception will be hosted February 7, 5-7 p.m. Free and open to the public.

CARE Shelter Village makes progress

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 20:42:57 GMT

This past week "Pallet Shelters" were installed on the property directly next to CARE on First Street in Tillamook as the latest improvement to the CARE Shelter Village. "Pallet Shelters" are temporary shelters that are made of easy-to-assemble panels, packed flat for shipping.

This village of temporary housing will be operated by CARE. There will be a large group shelter where those needing a safe place can stay night-by-night. The smaller units are for those, who opt to, can receive intensive case management to be assisted to be housed.

“We have some major work still needing to get done,” CARE Executive Director Jeff Blackford said. “The electric vault needs to be installed, the storage unit has to be placed, [and] furnishings need to be ordered.”

Blackford estimates the housing village will open within the next couple months.

Tillamook County was selected as one of eight counties to receive 1 million dollars to create a coordinated homeless services office and a five-year strategic plan which includes creating housing. Tillamook County helped identify a piece of County property for this project and has opted to lease it long-term to CARE so they could develop this area for temporary shelter.

“I am excited each day to look out my office window at the progress on the CARE Shelter Village,” Tillamook County Commissioner Erin Skaar said. “Everyone in our community who is experiencing houselessness deserves a warm, dry, safe place to stay while they get their feet underneath them. Located next door to CARE's offices, this village will expand our network of options to provide shelter and support to many more people in our community.”

"Relay" the message: Three Capes Marathon Relay happening on the coast

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 01:34:28 GMT

Through the years, Tillamook County’s Eva Manderson has been a participant on numerous Three Capes Marathon Relay teams.

“I love the fun of doing a relay,” she said. “It’s a motivation to get out there with everyone else who’s running or walking, but it’s even better to do it with a team.”

This year’s Three Capes Marathon Relay will be hosted on Saturday, February 22.

The Three Capes Marathon Relay is a 26.2 mile course traveling the Three Capes Scenic Loop, starting at Cape Meares Lake, passing Cape Lookout, and end at the beach in Pacific City.

“I’ve been on a number of great teams,” Manderson said. “We don’t get too serious. I like it because it’s the first run of the new year and usually gets me motivated to do more.”

In the 2024 race, Manderson’s team was named: “Nobody Dies.”

Registration is taken all the way up until the night before the event. Participants can choose between running a the race as a solo marathon, a two-person team, or a five-person team. The course is separated into five legs which vary in distances from 4.37 miles to just under seven miles. Team categories include: family, business, school, or Clydesdale. Starting and ending at sea level, there is nearly 2,400 feet of climb within the course, offering a challenging racing venue.

Cost for registration is $339 for a five-person team, $165 for a two-person team, and the solo marathoner is $95. Every participant will receive a custom Three Capes Relay Medal when crossing the finish line. Register prior to February 6 to receive a race t-shirt. Register online at threecapesrelay.com .

High school and middle school teams can receive a discount by using the code: "High School Runner" when registering to receive 30 percent off the team fee.

'I found my support system'

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 04:34:10 GMT

It had been 15 years since Galena Flores attended school. One day during the summer of 2020, she heard that Tillamook Bay Community College was offering free virtual classes.

“I have dyslexia, so I’ve always been really nervous about going back to school because high school was horrible for me,” she said.

At the time, Galena was working at the Tillamook County Family YMCA as well as her family’s restaurant, but due to the Covid-19 pandemic, both were closed.

“The reason why I started my education journey was because I wanted to just learn more about health and being healthy,” she said. “When I first started going, I wanted to do nutrition and always had the end game of transferring out of TBCC.”

Within two years, Flores had earned her associate’s degree and enrolled in TBCC’s Degree Partnership Program with Oregon State University to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Health.

“I loved TBCC and the staff there were amazing,” she said. “You can take classes at TBCC prices, at TBCC, but be enrolled at OSU, which is huge.”

The final years of Flores’ education were solely online.

“I never stepped foot on campus until recently,” she laughed. “And it wasn’t even for school, it was for work.”

Flores completed her degree in December 2024 and accepted a position as SNAP Educator at the Tillamook OSU Extension .

“It was pretty exciting and it still seems super unreal,” she said. “It’s a blessing in disguise because when I applied for the position it took me a second to realize that I was applying for a position where I went to school.”

As a part of her position, Flores helps SNAP participants and the community understand how to shop mindfully and prepare food for healthy living.

“I want to help the community be able to spend those dollars wisely and promote a healthy lifestyle," she said. “You can come whether you are a SNAP participant or not; you’re more than welcome to come check out and enjoy the program and benefit from it.”

Flores also has, as she describes, “a soft spot” for older adults.

“I lost my grandparents at a very young age, so it’s been a drive of mine to save all the grandparents so grandchildren have grandparents to hang out and grow up with.”

Flores is certified to teach diabetes prevention classes, and shares tips about how small life changes can have big results.

“It was these classes that fueled me to want to go to school,” she said. “It transformed into where I am now and greatly aligns with my want to help the masses. I wanted to not just help two or three people, but my entire community.”

On the day of her interview for Newsie Features, Flores had spent the morning teaching “Better Bones and Balance” fitness class and then did a “Food Hero” tasting at Tillamook High School.

“I love it because every single day I can’t believe I’m getting paid to do this kind of stuff.”

Flores’ own pursuit, and relatable struggles, in health and fitness helps her connect with community members.

Flores grew up helping out in her mother’s restaurants.

“I think that having the restaurants also helps me understand individuals’ relationship with food,” she said. “Food is a connection in so many different aspects and a lot of people don’t even know how they’re connect or triggered by food.”

Nearly a decade ago, an invite change Flores’ life.

“I started going to the YMCA because I was very overweight. I was very depressed. I was in a very toxic relationship. I hated looking at myself in the mirror. I hated getting dressed in the morning; it was the worst thing in the world.”

One day, she attended a fitness class.

“I remember my first day: Michelle Jenck was the instructor. I sat in the back of the class. It was a double bench routine which is extremely hard. I think I stumbled over the bench. I’m pretty sure my life flashed before my eyes. But, I absolutely loved it.”

In fact, Flores returned the next day for another class.

“I just started coming to those classes and I slowly got my tribe: my herd of people who noticed if I wasn’t there.”

Her consistency and dedication resulted in an invite to fill in for instructors. She eventually was asked to start leading her own fitness classes and became a personal trainer.

“Darcy [Fugate] was one of the instructors at the time and she took me under her wing and just dumped all this self-love and information on me. I just absorbed it and learned to love myself again while losing weight and understanding that food is fuel. Self-care is really important.”

She also credits departing YMCA CEO Kaylan Sisco as a strong pillar in her journey.

“He gave me the strength and the support to be able to do what I’m doing,” she said. “I’d ask: ‘Can I do this?’ He’d say: ‘Yeah of course! If you want to do it, go right ahead.’ We’ll miss him. He’s impacted a lot of people.”

Flores has been a fitness instructor at the YMCA for nine years and will continue to lead classes in partnership with her new position with the Tillamook OSU Extension.

“Don’t be scared to go out of your comfort zone,” she said. “Four years ago, I was crying in my chair at my house about how nervous I was to go back to school. But, I did it. I pushed myself out of my comfort zone and I found my support system. I found my mentors.”

Flores leads the “Better Bones and Balance” classes every Tuesday and Thursday from 10-11 a.m. at the Tillamook YMCA. The classes focuses on improving strength, balance, and overall health while reducing fall risks. The class is free for participants.

Flores will also be leading the “Plan, Shop, Save & Cook” courses held at the OSU Extension Office February 15, March 1, 15, and 29. The free four session series will discuss how to save money and cook healthier meals. Register by contacting Flores at: galena.flores@oregonstate.edu .

Garibaldi's Game Geek

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 04:28:12 GMT

You won’t be “board” at Gamesquall

Puzzle solving is just a part of Jake Boone’s nature.

During the workweek, Boone solves problems as the city manager of Garibaldi. Hired in July, he’s the latest hire for a position that’s seen significant turnover in recent years.

“I liked the idea of being a city manager in a small town, especially one that been through some chaos of late,” Boone said. “I like coming into a broken situation and try to fit pieces back together. It was a good opportunity at the right time and it’s somewhere [I’ve] always wanted to live. Rain is my favorite weather, which makes me a little strange, but it works out really nice because, boy howdy, have we been getting some of that.”

Outside of work, Boone takes his puzzle-solving nature and applies it to board games. As a self-proclaimed game geek, his personal collection includes 750 games.

Back when he was living in Cottage Grove, Boone began “Gamesquall” which he describes as a poor man’s Gamestorm.

“There was (and still is) an annual game convention that happens in March in Portland called Gamestorm,” he said. “It’s a big, huge convention and people come from all over the place to play lot and lots of different games. During the recession, a lot of folks that I knew just couldn’t afford to go.”

Knowing quite a few people in his circle who had lost their jobs, Boone and his wife opened up their house, set up tables, and invited a bunch of people over for hours of board game play.

“It was really fun,” Boone said. “People brought snacks and it was a good time. By the second year it outgrew our house.”

They dubbed the event “Gamesquall.” Their biggest event was one New Year’s Eve when 104 gamers showed up.

Now with his move to the Oregon Coast, Boone has relocated his event and large collection of games. The inaugural kickoff for Gamesquall Garibaldi was New Year’s Eve. Boone set up tables in the Garibaldi Community Center, brought a game library that spanned the length of the room, and invited the community for an entire day and evening of board games.

“If it follows the same pattern as Cottage Grove, it'll be a relatively small group to begin with,” Boone said. “But then, over time, as word-of-mouth spreads and people hear about it, we’ll get more and more people until eventually we have a self-sustaining board gaming community.”

To keep momentum rolling, Boone plans to host smaller Gamesquall events the first Sunday of every month. The next game day will be hosted February 2, noon – 5 p.m. at the Garibaldi Community Center (107 Sixth St). The events are free to attend.

“I provide the games, the gamers provide themselves; it’s a pretty basic ecosystem of how this works,” Boone said. “Very often I act as the game concierge or sommelier.”

Boone credits the board game renaissance in Germany for expanding the genre.

“I’ll just say, if you’re somebody who has a closet that contains games like parcheesi, Life, and Sorry: you’re in for a treat,” he said. “If you’re someone who thinks board games are alright or just something for when it’s cruddy weather and there’s nothing else to do, I used to be that way. But now, there are game designers all over the world and they're making amazing, fantastic games that make you crave playing.”

Boone gives the example of Clue. Almost everybody’s played Clue. But, he says one of the issues with Clue is that the interesting part is figuring out who done it. The not interesting part is rolling a die and then moving that many spaces through the halls and then doing nothing else on your turn.

“There are modern games that take the good part of Clue and make it a full game without the boring parts,” Boone said. “The designers have put a lot of effort into making sure that they are so fun that when the game ends you say: ‘Let’s play it again.’”

Gamesquall’s game library has a wide selection that gamers can select from: family games, word games, social deduction games, or games with good mechanics.

“We have games where your decisions are interesting, important, and matter. And we have games where you’re doing a lot more social interaction with other people at the table.”

Each monthly Gamesquall game day is a non-pressure event: come with friends or solo. No experience is necessary.

“Gamers tend to be pretty welcoming. You don’t have to have a bunch of secret knowledge before you’re taken seriously,” Boone said. “People are generally happy to see you because it’s always good to have another person to play.”

Gamer seeking gamer? Boone hosts a forum on his website for people looking for gaming friends.

“I hope to sustain a board gaming community where, even if it’s not a Gamesquall day, you can get in touch with people you’ve met here and get together and play games."

And what are some favorites for the guy who has just about every game: Star Wars Rebellion and Streetcar.

For all Gamesquall information, visit gamesquall.com .

A miniature world from the mind of Levi Timm

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 05:33:30 GMT

When artist Levi Timm finds a shell on the beach, it inspires a character.

A squid using chopsticks. An oyster boatman.

“When I was a kid, I really loved Claymation,” Timm said, recalling that a childhood neighbor inspired others to make their own clay movies.

Timm said it was a phase that came and went, and he didn’t create with clay again until his partner Meg Angier purchased an earring making kit that contained a bunch of polymer clay.

“It was just laying around and I had some strange ideas to take some shells I had found at the beach and try and make some creatures,” Timm said. “They’ve sort of evolved into what you see today…and people thought they were funny and amusing.”

Timm is currently featured as the January Artist of the Month for the Bay City Arts Center . His displayed collection consists of miniature creatures and characters in terrarium-like environments.

“It’s almost like world-building in a sense,” Timm said. “I think there’s a lot of opportunity to explore different narratives about where the squid [and characters] came from. What’s happened many times is I’ll make a squid or a certain character and then somebody will text me and say, ‘That looks like my coworker.’ They’re very personable and people find them charming.”

Inspired by his time working with an oyster farmer, Timm created a series of mini oyster boats.

“When I was working on the oyster beds, obviously there was an unlimited amount of oyster shells,” Timm said. “The shell sort of inspired the creation. It’s easy to see a half an oyster shell with a nice deep cup and flip it upside down—well it looks buoyant like a boat.”

All of Timm’s creations are unique, handmade, and crafted from oven-baked polymer clay.

“The clay gloss gives it that ‘just plucked out of the ocean look.’ They’re pretty and it makes them shine,” he said.

Last year, Timm taught a clay figure workshop at the Bay City Arts Center .

“I got to make clay with families and kids,” he said. “There’s just something about those physical art, artistic opportunities that you get to use your own hands and craft. I’ve never been much of an illustrator or a painter, but there’s something about the process of working with clay that I find engaging and fun. You start with a blob of clay and then you see where it goes and it ends up looking like something completely different.”

Timm became involved with the Bay City Arts Center after taking one of the organization’s rock carving classes.

“There’s lots of events there,” he said. “They have music, plays, workshops, and featured artists of the month. I’m always impressed with the Bay City Arts Center. It’s a real gem of Tillamook County.”

Timm’s work is on display at the Bay City Arts Center through the month of January and individual pieces are available for purchase. The gallery is free and open anytime during a Bay City Arts Center event. For event hours and listings, visit baycityartscenter.com .

Women on the force

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 20:53:13 GMT

It’s a crayon drawing Sergeant Michelle Raymond will never forget.

“I've spent a lot of years investigating child victim crimes,” Sgt. Raymond said. “One time we had a child [five years-old] report something at school. The teacher reports it. We do the investigation and remove the offender from the home during the investigation.”

Several weeks later, Sgt. Raymond returned to the same school for an unrelated matter.

“The teacher, who had been the one to report, said: ‘You’ve got to see this picture,’” Sgt. Raymond recalled.

It was an illustration by the five-year old victim. They had drawn a picture with a bunch of different stick-figure people. Sgt. Raymond said the teacher asked the child what the illustration was of. The child explained that it was a picture of themselves, their mom, and a monster.

There were two other stick-figures with rays of sunshine coming out of their heads: a law enforcement officer and a DHS employee.

“‘Those ones saved me,’” the teacher relayed from the child.

“It’s little nuggets like that, that I think are the most rewarding to me,” Sgt. Raymond said.

Sgt Raymond is one of the four sworn female officers with the Tillamook County Sherriff’s Office. The remaining 35 officers are male.

“It is a male-dominated industry and females are generally underrepresented,” Tillamook County Sheriff Josh Brown said. “But, I think as evidence by the crew and support that we have, there's no lack of amazingness that is coming from them. Each has a unique story about how they got to this point.”

Detective Sergeant Michelle Raymond

Sgt. Raymond has worked in law enforcement since 1990. Seeking an off-shift job, she began as a dispatcher in Josephine County.

“I ended up staying there for five years, dispatching on all the different shifts,” she said. “I started getting interested in what was going on the other side of the radio. It's exciting. It's high pace. Sometimes very boring, but most of the other times when it's exciting, it's exciting.”

Raymond applied to work with Oregon State Police [OSP] and was brought on in 1995.

“I was an OSP trooper down in Roseburg and then transferred up here to Tillamook in 1998,” she said.

Sgt. Raymond worked for OSP until her retirement in 2017.

“I spent 10 years in the detective division,” she said. “We were doing a drug team that was an interagency team with the [Tillamook County] sheriff’s office. When I decided I was going to retire, the undersheriff at the time recruited me to come over. I basically stayed at my same desk, just changed badges.”

Looking back on her decades-long career, she’s grateful for those who came before her.

“As far as being a woman in law enforcement, we're always a minority. It has always been, and probably will always be a male-dominated industry,” Sgt. Raymond said. “I think back to some of the female deputies that I met when I first worked for Josephine County; they really blazed the trail. I used to hear a lot of the stories of the teasing and practical jokes that they would get.”

But, Sgt. Raymond said the acceptance of female officers has come a long way.

“A lot of that has gone away. Matter of fact, I can't say that I have felt different, less than, or in any way not accepted by my male counterparts,” she said. “Personally, I have not felt any discrimination. I’ve felt a lot of support. You don't just go to work and have a job. You actually hang out with some of [your coworkers] after work and share your life stories.”

Deputy Alexis Bofill

Deputy Bofill is one of the newest sworn members at the Tillamook County Sherriff’s Office.

“Growing up I never thought, ‘I'm going to be a police officer. I want to work in the jail,’” she recalled.

But, that’s now where she spends her 12-hour shifts: working with incarcerated individuals at the Tillamook County Jail.

Bofill entered her career in law enforcement by first working in the records department for a sheriff’s office.

“Seeing the day-to-day and how [officers] work with people, I realized that that’s something I could do,” Bofill said. “I saw that a lot of things they do are transferable skills that I had: like talking to people. I worked retail and in adult living homes. That could be my skill, I could actually be beneficial and do this.”

Bofill was sworn into the Tillamook Sheriff’s Office in September as a corrections officer.

“I’m still new,” she said. “I’m adjusting to the long schedule and still learning things, but it’s interesting.”

Lieutenant Ahnie Seaholm

Lt. Ahnie Seaholm is a Tillamook County native. Grew up on a dairy farm. Attended Oregon State University. And is the second generation to work for the Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office.

“I grew up with my dad in law enforcement, so that's probably my first taste and exposure to it,” she said. “It was just normal throughout life.”

After college, Lt. Seaholm was hired as a legal assistant in the Tillamook County District Attorney’s Office. After some time, she moved to the Tillamook County Justice Court and then eventually transferred to the parole and probation department.

“I had come out and job shadowed Dodie Gillespie, who was a former deputy at community corrections, and spent a day with her,” Lt. Seaholm. “It seemed very interesting to work in community corrections. So, I applied for a grant-funded position and got hired in the beginning of 2014.”

Ten years later Lt. Seaholm continues to work in community corrections for the Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office.

“In my role as lieutenant, I like to see the team that I work with grow and find where they want to go,” she said. “I go to a lot of meetings. I go down to the Oregon State Police office all the time; we partner and collaborate really closely and I think that's a unique thing. The collaboration like we have in this county [is unheard of]. Everybody just backs everybody up if you need anything.”

The most rewarding part of her work, Lt. Seaholm said, is watching former offenders change their lives for the better.

“[In, this job], you work with all walks of life and all different backgrounds. It really is a lot about talking with them and navigating different situations,” Lt. Seaholm said. “We’ve dealt with generations of families: we’ve seen grandparents, parents, and their kids. And then, someone breaks the cycle. The people we supervise, change their behavior, get off supervision, and get their kids back. We’ll hear five years down the road that they went to school or did something with their life. That for me, is the most rewarding part.”

Deputy Yvonne Burdick-Garcia

Deputy Yvonne Burdick-Garcia began her career with the Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office as a reservist.

“Back in the 2000s, the only way to work in the sheriff’s office was if someone retired,” she said. “In 2001, they had a big hiring push and I was hired.”

This January, Deputy Burdick-Garcia will retire after 25 years in the agency having worked in the jail, at Sandlake, as a detective, and as a parole officer.

“The sheriff's office is a family,” she said. “We treat our workers as family and we're there for our families. It’s a hard environment, but it’s a great environment. Law enforcement is not the same when I started 24 years ago. It’s not the ‘good old boys’ system like it used to be. It’s still hard for females in law enforcement, but we’re seeing more progressive thinking and accepting us as equals.”

The idea that we’re all one or two bad decisions away from an encounter with law enforcement, is what led Deputy Burdick-Garcia to conduct herself with empathy throughout her career.

“If we can just be human, remember that, and treat each person as such,” she said. “Be safe and professional, but also remember: If that was your mom, how would you want an officer to treat her?”

Current openings for the Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office can be found on the Tillamook County website at: tillamookcounty.gov.

Senior project joins with senior citizen prom

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 17:26:00 GMT

Senior prom. A time to get dressed up, spend time with friends, and crown the prom king and queen. Sounds pretty typical, right? But, instead of seniors in high school, it’s senior citizens hitting the dance floor.

New Paragraph

The Rotary Club of Tillamook hosted their annual Senior Citizen Prom event on Oct. 26 at the Tillamook County Elks Lodge. This year’s theme was Halloween with many guests attending dressed in their favorite costumes. The afternoon consisted of themed photo booths, lunch, dancing, and crowning of the best costume and prom king and queen.

Helping with logistics for the event was Tillamook High School senior Stella Hurliman.

“Growing up, I have been really heavily involved in community service,” she said. “I grew up helping out with my dad at events. As I got older, I realized that I really like planning stuff. I have a connection with a lot of the people that show up annually and I wanted to give them something because they've always been there for me.”

Hurliman decided that she wanted to incorporate her senior project into the event; working on decorations and marketing.

“It just brings me so much joy and I know it does a lot of good for the community,” she said. “My dad [Brett Hurliman] told me that one year there were these neighbors that were split up because they both went to different [senior] homes. They hadn't seen each other for years and then they reconnected at the senior citizen prom. That is just the purest thing you've ever heard in your entire life.”

While several generations separate Hurliman from the event’s attendees, she said she enjoys the conversations.

“I really want to socialize with everybody,” she said. “Their generation and my generation is very different. So, I had a list of questions to ask to get to know people like: ‘What was your favorite TV show growing up?’”

Hurliman’s work to give back to the community doesn’t stop with her senior project. She’s been a Tillamook High School Charity Drive chairperson for four years. She also participates in dance, basketball, and is Tillamook High School’s ASB vice president.

Looking to next year, Hurliman hopes to move somewhere warmer than Oregon with the goal of majoring in human development and family studies.

“I really want to be a child life specialist, which is for pediatric patients.”

For more information about the Rotary Club of Tillamook, visit: tillamookrotary.com .

Heritage Apple Festival crushes it

Sun, 06 Oct 2024 19:43:00 GMT

In the Nehalem Valley, 100-year old apple trees are still producing fruit. These apples have a distinct flavor from those found at supermarkets.

To celebrate the historical apple orchards of the area, the White Clover Grange hosted their second Heritage Apple Festival on Oct. 5.

Visitors were able to purchase fresh, pressed apple cider, taste local apples, and snack on yummy apple-based treats.

“[Guests] tasted probably a dozen different apple varieties, giving people a chance to see what they’re like,” White Clover Grange Secretary Jennifer Childress said.

A grant from the Tillamook County Cultural Coalition helped support the event, as well as a project to create grafts of local heritage trees to sell.

“The second part of the project was for us to actually do some grafting of the old trees onto new rootstock,” Childress said. “People that bought an apple tree to take home are of the old varieties. That's a part of our goal to keep these varieties going.”

David Hendrickson of Carola Wine + Cider (based in Wheeler) helped the White Clover Grange identify heritage trees in the area and was the main apple cider maker at the event.

“He's been working with us and he's identified all kinds of trees,” Childress said.

All proceeds from the event went back to benefit the White Clover Grange.

“We're a community hub. There's all kinds of events that happen at the Grange,” Childress said. “We have events that brings the public together. It’s a place that’s really just is so welcoming.”

Tillamook Christian Center celebrates centennial

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 04:55:00 GMT

It was an abandoned pool hall in downtown Tillamook. But, the Stenberg family saw it as the perfect opportunity for a church.

In 1924, the roots of Tillamook Christian Center were planted.

The church’s base moved through the years. After leaving downtown, the church relocated to the corner of 7th and Pacific where it became known as the Pentecostal Tabernacle. By 1936, the church began its affiliation with the Assembly of God denomination. And in 1970 moved to its current location on Marolf Loop Road, adopting the name Tillamook Christian Center.

To commemorate their 100 years of history, the Tillamook Christian Center is inviting the community to their weekend-long celebration of “100 Years…Just Beginning.”

On Friday, Sept. 13, a dinner banquet will be held with former pastors Mike Hill, Dennis Archer, and Terry Sprenkel in attendance. An RSVP is encouraged to attend by contacting Pastor Tim Scarbrough at 503-524-8280 or by sending an email to tillamookchristian@gmail.com .

On Saturday, Sept. 14 from 11 am - 3 pm the church will host its “Kids and Family Day” with outdoor games, and a BBQ lunch. The event is free to attend.

Wrapping up the weekend will be the “Centennial Service”on Sunday, Sept. 15 at 10:30 a.m. Pastor Harold Johnson, whose grandfather pastored the church in the late 1940s, will be sharing a message. Music will take a walk through time with some favorite songs of the past.

The Tillamook Christian Center is located at 701 Marolf Loop Road. in Tillamook. For more information, visit tillamookchristiancenter.com/events-1

In the driver’s seat

Sat, 10 Aug 2024 17:22:00 GMT

Two weeks before the Tillamook County Fair, trailers pull up the race track. From the back, crews unload their prized Ford Model Ts. It’s time for a test drive. A rare time to practice for one of the most unique traditions of the Fair: Pig-N-Ford.

In the middle of the track, drivers and their support crews gather. A tune up here, a test drive there. There’s a sense of competition, but also a sense of camaraderie.

“It’s like a family,” member John Haertel said. “What keeps me driving is just knowing that I was lucky enough to get into the sport because not a lot of people can do it.”

Haertel began racing in 2005.

Within the Pig-N-Ford Association, each car belongs to a franchise (only 10 are allowed) and each franchise can bring as many drivers to the association as the club allows.

“What people don't understand is the time and commitment that each franchise owner has to do to prepare their car to get it ready for race day,” Haertel said. “This car here has a 1927 motor. Trying to get parts for these…you’re going to people's houses and going through their grandpa's barn.”

When it comes to the race, Haertel explains that it’s much more than driving fast.

“You have to know how to crank the car. What a lot of the spectators don't understand is the race can be won and lost in 30 seconds,” he said.

And then there’s the pig.

“We make sure that our drivers are safe and that the pigs are maintained and handled properly,” Haertel said. “If you’re not handling the pig with respect, you get disqualified. It doesn’t even matter what you do on the track. If we see that you’re not doing something well with the pig, you’re automatically disqualified.”

The three-lap races at the Tillamook County Fair take place all four days, with Saturday being the championship race. It's the one for the coveted trophy and bragging rights.

“It’s the only event in the world,” Haertel said. “That's why they call it the World Championships because you can't see it anywhere else. It's a little odd. It draws attention. We have a fan base that really enjoys it.”

Regardless of the outcome of each race, Haertel looks forward to the future and the tradition of passing down the car to the next generation.

“I think what drives me most is one day my son, that's been a part of it his whole life, I get to pass it down to him. He’ll get to learn and experience what we actually do.”

Arts, crafts, and hobbies, Oh my!

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 19:40:00 GMT

During the Tillamook County Fair, the upstairs of the Main Building is transformed into a gallery. Art-filled walls and displayed crafts and hobbies highlight the talents of local county residents.

Incoming Tillamook Junior High School seventh grader Clayton Oleman is one of the youth exhibitors in the art and hobby departments. He entered several Lego creations as well an abstract, spray-painted piece of the “universe.” But don’t confuse age for inexperience, Oleman is an award-winning artist

“I started doing art in kindergarten,” Oleman said. “I would draw a little bit of everything. I would see something and would draw and doodle. When I was little, it was hard to do details. Now, I do a lot in comic style.”

In February, Oleman entered his painting of a mountain with a lake to the Adventist Health “Art for the Heart Art” Gallery Show. He titled his piece: “Heart of the Forest.” It won the hearts of gallery attendees, garnering enough votes to claim the “Youth Award” of the entire show.

Oleman recalls his parents and two brothers being there when he found out that he won.

“I thought it was really great,” mom Maddison Oleman said. “He got lots of compliments on his work.”

Oleman has added another award to his art collection, earning a blue ribbon for his spray-painted piece in the youth division at the 2024 Tillamook County Fair.

Oleman is one of many youth that have showcased their artistic talents at the Tillamook County Fairgrounds. The Craft and Hobby Department as well as the Art Department exhibits are located on the second floor of the Main Hall building.

“As attendees visit the Art Department, I highly encourage them to explore and experience all of the art, not just the pieces that they themselves or people they know entered,” Art Department Superintendent Leeauna Perry said. “We have a community rich in artistic talent and appreciating every individual age and experience level’s artwork adds to the cultural appreciation experience. A lot of time, effort, creativity and courage go into creating and submitting a piece of art into a public showcase such as the fair exhibit. I encourage visitors to acknowledge the work that each artist puts into these entries by fully engaging in this culturally enriching exhibit experience.”

Let it rise

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 04:18:00 GMT

During her first time at the Tillamook County Fair, Emilie Sisco knew she wanted to be a part of it.

“I had never been to a fair like the one here,” she said. “I walked around and realized it was something special. It sounds cheesy, but it wasn’t about winning or losing. I just thought having stuff there would be so cool.”

A few years later Sisco is not only a fair exhibitor, but a two-time, blue-ribbon winner in sourdough bread.

“About four years ago, I wanted to make my own starter from apples on our street,” Sisco said. “I thought it would be this really charming thing but, that starter never took. I was super frustrated and discouraged. My kids were also really little so I was spending every little sliver of what free time I had for a bread process that wasn't working out.”

But rather than throw in the bread towel, she decided to change out an element.

“I got starter from my sister, Heather,” Sisco said. “My sister has been making sourdough bread for a really long time, so I believe that the starter is around 14 years old.”

Sisco recalled that her mother brought a little bit of the starter on the airplane when she came for a visit.

“I had practiced so many times with bad starter, so when I added the healthy starter, the bread just worked,” she said. “Every time you give a starter to somebody, it takes on the microbes of their climate and household.”

Inside her kitchen, Sisco pulls out the prized starter from the refrigerator. It’s housed in a pink dish, happy and bubbling away.

“The starter is the foundation of your sourdough,” Sisco said. “It’s always alive and it’s always fermenting so the bubbles mean that it’s active. You don’t use anything else but water, flour, salt, and olive oil. You’re not even adding store-bought yeast. So, it’s a relatively non-processed bread. And you don’t need much equipment, not even a mixer.”

Sisco walks through the bread-making steps known as the “Tartine Method.”

The oven is “piping hot.” She measures each ingredient. Stretches and folds by hand. Adds a healthy drizzle of olive oil for taste. Gives it time in a bread bowl. And cuts out a “window” for design.

“I think home baking is a great art and we should encourage the younger generation to do it,” Sisco said. “I think these hobbies are important to people and traditions. There's a connection I get from touching the dough, slicing it up, and eating it. That just makes it a different experience then getting it from the store.”

Tucked in a Dutch oven, the sourdough bakes for 20 minutes. Another 20 without the lid. From the oven it cools and then is sliced. Perfect, crunchy crust on the outside. Soft on the inside. And a classic sourdough taste. No wonder it’s a winner.

But, it’s also encouraging for new bakers to know that even award-winners have off-days.

“Bread can very moody,” Sisco said. “Three months ago I made bread and it didn't turn out. It was really dense, the dough was uncooperative, and the crust was gummy. It was super temperamental. No matter how much you make sourdough, it will surprise you by being moody or not cooperating.”

Everyone loves a baker and Sisco has graciously shared her talents with others. Donating each year to the YMCA auction, and giving away bread to neighbors and kind souls. She even provided bread for a wedding last summer.

“I was telling my sister about a scenario where I was giving bread to somebody for helping me with some random thing,” Sisco relayed. “She said, ‘You sound like you live in a small town.’ That’s how it works; it’s a great little trade.”

This year, Sisco entered her sourdough as well as a challah bread into the Tillamook County Fair.

“Being a part of the Fair is a huge accomplishment. It’s always fun to see my stuff there,” Sisco said. “It’s also important for me to meet a goal, sign up for something, and submit it. When you have little kids, it keeps your pulse in the real world and that’s important.”

When asked what she thinks Fair judges have loved about her bread, she leans towards the consistency.

“The texture and flavor is what I'm guessing,” Sisco said.

She dreams of milling her own flour one day and perfecting "add-ins."

“I might have the guts to do a flavor one day and then see if the judges still like it,” Sisco said.

When not baking bread, Sisco is a mom to three boys (a pair of twins in the mix), teaches art via the Sitka Center for Art and Ecology, and volunteers her time and translating skills to the Tillamook YMCA. Spouse Kaylan Sisco is CEO & Executive Director at the Tillamook County YMCA.

“I feel part of the Y family,” she said. “I don't necessarily do anything in particular, but I feel like since we moved here, I've grown there. I feel like it's our little family.

After the bread’s been judged and the fair ribbons are given out, Sisco will return home to her kitchen and the starter in her fridge she must keep alive.

“I feel so much like ‘The Tell-Tale Heart.’ It’s like this haunting thing in the fridge,” Sisco laughed. “It's alive and you have a relationship with the starter. And sometimes you have time for it and sometimes you don't. Sometimes I'll make a lot of bread and then I'll need a little break. So, it'll go back in the fridge. It's just a fun little cycle.”

Rawe Beef

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 04:06:00 GMT

A few days out from the Tillamook County Fair and Peyton Rawe’s steers are getting show-ready. Daily baths and time spent under fans encourages hair growth to hide imperfections. Electrotherapy sessions relax their muscles.

Finale’s session finishes and its Hugo’s turn. He’s a bit stubborn.

“When they get this big, the last thing they want to do is walk,” Rawe laughs.

She slips him into a harness and gives a good tug from the front. No luck. But, Rawe knows the tried-and-true method. She walks around to his backside to “twist his tail.” It works; Gusto shuffles forward.

Her intuition and knowledge of her steers appears to just come naturally. It’s as if she’s always known what to do. But, that’s not the case.

“I knew nothing when I started out,” Rawe said, recalling her first steer compeition at 12-years-old. “I look back on when I was younger and I just didn’t know what I was doing.”

But, she was determined to educate herself.

“I’ve never been afraid to ask a stupid question and learn more,” Rawe said.

She also wasn’t afraid to work hard.

“I don’t have the nicest barn or the biggest trailer,” Rawe said. “But, somebody once told me that if you do the best with what you have, then you’ve already won.”

It’s all paid off.

In the past six years competing at the Tillamook County Fair, Rawe’s claimed Grand Champion Beef Showman six times and Grand Champion Market Beef five times.

“This is my passion project,” Rawe said. “We start our steer projects in September. So, by the time people see it at the Fair, it’s almost been a whole year’s worth of work. I feed them every morning at 7 a.m. and again at 5 p.m. No matter what I’m doing that day, I’m here to feed them. You can’t take a day off.”

She credits a lot of her success to the support she’s received.

“I’ve had some crazy dreams and my parents have always let me go all in 100 percent,” Rawe said. “Or, when I call anyone for help in the community, there’s always someone who comes right over.”

In addition to Grand Champion, she’s won countless other FFA and 4-H awards and served as the president of the Tillamook FFA chapter all four years of high school. Rawe was also a member of the Cheesemaker varsity cross country and track & field team, and graduated in the top ten percent of her class.

Both of Rawe’s steers will be up for market at the Tillamook County Junior Livestock Auction. She invites attendees to support all the entered animal projects.

“It’s not just quality meat that you’re getting, but somebody’s time,” she said.

This year’s Tillamook County Fair culminates the seven years she’s dedicated to perfecting her craft. There’s relief that all her hard work is about to pay off, but also eagerness for what’s to come. In September, Rawe will head to Oregon State University to begin her studies in veterinary medicine.

But for now, a grueling week lies ahead. Standing inside the barn that her great-grandfather once raised cows in, Rawe describes feelings of both tiredness and excitement. She takes a moment to reflect.

“Some of the best life lessons I’ve learned have been in this barn. I’ve spent thousands of hours out here…I wouldn’t trade it for the world.”

The ‘art’ of teaching

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 02:37:00 GMT

Nancy Bernard warmly refers to her house’s attic as her: “art-ic.”

“There’s always something in the works up there,” Bernard laughed.

It’s her home art studio where many a masterpiece has been created, some of which end up showcased, and winning awards, in the Tillamook County Fair .

“I like to enter art in the fair,” Bernard said. “I encourage my students to enter whether it’s something they did at school or on their own. It’s a way to get your stuff out there for people to see. I love to go and see all the other work.”

Bernard, born and raised in Tillamook, was “drawn” to art as a young student.

“The first experience I remember was the kindergarten teacher holding up my painting of a rainbow with clouds and mountains. She told the class, ‘Look at Nancy’s picture. Isn’t it beautiful,’” Bernard recalled. “That made me think that I might like to continue this.”

At 11, Bernard remembered dabbling in a difficult medium.

“My first oil painting was of a photograph,” she said. “I was encouraged to show it to [a professional artist]. I took it into the studio and it was just shredded.”

Despite the harsh criticism, Bernard proved that art is truly in the eye of the beholder.

“I decided, I’m just going to keep doing it,” she said. “I continued to do more oil paintings and when I got into college I took a watercolor class. I thought, ‘This is going to be a breeze.’ It was really hard. It was one of the hardest mediums I’ve ever worked with. It’s not very forgiving.”

Art continues to be a daily part of Bernard’s life as she pulls inspiration from nature and her loved ones.

“I’ve learned to appreciate all of the variety of art,” she said. “If I see something in an art gallery, I think, ‘Can I do that?’ Then, I try to do something more outside the box even if it fails. Allow yourself to be teachable and try something new.”

Through the years, Bernard has hosted art shows, sold a few paintings, commissioned a couple, and currently has a rotating display of glass windows for sale at Roseanna’s Cafe in Oceanside, OR.

“I don’t think people realize the effort that goes into a piece of art. It’s like your child,” she said. “When I sell a piece, I like to take a picture with the person who bought it because it’s a part of me. When you see someone’s work, value it. They put a lot of time into it.”

While pieces of her artwork hang in others’ homes, her biggest art influence is on the hundreds of students who have passed through her art classroom.

This coming fall will be Bernard’s 36th year teaching with 16 of those being the art teacher at Tillamook Junior High School.

“I enjoy seeing the creativity of my students,” Bernard said. “When kids get excited about art, they value it. At the end of each trimester, I always ask them what their favorite part of the class was and everyone has a different part.”

Some of her class’s work is permanently on display as murals inside Tillamook Junior High School and an mosaic mural outside TJHS at the front entrance. Others are inside the old Beaver School at Nestucca School District 101 and outside under the fire hall wall next to the school where she taught for several years.

“That’s been really fun to have the kids suggest what mural that they’d like to do,” she said. “I also love being supported by my principals with the projects and curriculum I create.”

Part of the fun of being a fair exhibitor is to inspire her students.

“I try to put something in the fair for my students to find,” Bernard said. “When entering something, it’s risky because you’re putting yourself out there. I know that it takes a lot to put yourself out on display because some people will be critical, but that’s part of learning too.”

At this year’s Tillamook County Fair , keep an eye out for Bernard’s watercolor, "Fern," named after her newest granddaughter, born in March.

The art exhibits are displayed on the second floor of the Main Hall at the Tillamook County Fairgrounds .

Magical mail carrier

Fri, 05 Jul 2024 15:00:00 GMT

When Tommy Ng moved to Tillamook from Hong Kong, he wanted to improve his English. He’d enjoyed performing close-up magic since he was a kid. So, he decided to learn the punchlines in English to accompany his tricks.

“When I first came to America, I didn’t have a car. So, I would take the bus to the magic shop in Portland and buy the VHS tapes,” he said. “I would then come back and, with nothing else to do, would play it and start practicing.”

Born and raised in Hong Kong, Ng immigrated to the United States at the age of 21. His aunt and uncle proceeded him in the move, operating the former Fei Ying Chinese restaurant in Tillamook.

“The first five years I didn’t like it here, so I kept my summer job in Hong Kong,” Ng said detailing that he would travel back and forth between the two countries.

In his youth, Ng was a record-holding youth swimmer. He gravitated toward diving and finswimming: a swimming technique that utilizes a monofin. He held a Hong Kong youth record of 18.54 seconds for the 50-meter finswim. He had his sights on becoming a professional swimmer, when he was sidelined.

“I have an irregular heartbeat,” Ng said. “With a pacemaker, you can’t be a professional swimmer. So, I started learning about coaching. By the time I was 15, I was a lifeguard and then an assistant coaching on the swimming team.”

After decolonization in 1997, Hong Kong updated the country’s lifeguarding requirements.

“I was the youngest and in the first group in Hong Kong to get the lifeguard teacher certificate,” Ng said. “You needed to apply when you were 18. So, I applied on my 18th birthday and passed everything you needed to.”

While living in Hong Kong, Ng studied traumatology, Chinese traditional medicine, and acupuncture, but his credentials were not transferable to the United States. So, once in Tillamook, he fell back on his advanced-swimming skills.

“I got a job at the [Tillamook] YMCA as a lifeguard in the mornings,” Ng said. “At the time, my English was not good, but I knew some basics. I still remember when I got the job, I was teaching an arthritis swim class when I saw two moves called: ‘merry go round’ and ‘rocking horse.’ I knew all the words, but I didn’t know what they meant.”

While establishing himself more and more in Tillamook, Ng continued to long-distance date his high school sweetheart: Peggy.

“We were boyfriend and girlfriend for 10 years,” Ng said. “She would come here on a travel visa often.”

The two married in 2004 and together have an 11-year old son Draco.

Something that would have made their long-distance in the 2000s relationship easier? Fast internet.

“I got a landline installed to my house so that I could read the newspaper in Hong Kong,” Ng laughed. “I would select one news story and then go take a shower. I would come back and that one news story would still be loading.”

The family of three have made Tillamook their homebase, taking trips back to Hong Kong to visit family when they can.

“It’s really expensive to travel back and forth,” Ng said.

To say the family has worked hard, is an understatement. Peggy works at the Chinese Garden, and Ng is sometimes known to work 70 hours a week through multiple jigs.

“Peggy is amazing. She works hard, is a wonderful wife and mother, and is really down-to-earth,” Ng said. “We both are working a lot and see the long-term future.”

Twenty years ago, Ng applied for a part-time job at the Tillamook Post Office as a rural mail carrier.

“As a rural carrier, you have to use your own car,” Ng said. “At first, I drove a car with a bench seat and drove like a monkey until I upgraded to my rural jeep [with the steering on the righthand side.”

He continued to lifeguard (10 years with the Tillamook County YMCA) until a full time position became available with the post office, a position he’s held for the past 13 years.

Despite his busy schedule, Ng still finds some time to practice and perform his hobby: magic.

“When I was younger I was kind of famous here,” Ng said. “I would go to schools and the libraries and perform.”

Ng regularly meets with the Society of American Magicians and the Portland Society of Magicians to talk about magic. He also competes in magic competitions, of which is has won several including the close-up magic division of the Kramien’s Northwest Magic Jamboree.

“I still do parties, but just really less right now because the post office is really busy,” he said.

A growing passion of his: bubble magic.

“I’ve created a secret formula and sell it around the world.”

To purchase a bottle, reach out to Ng on his Facebook page .

Beat summer hunger, become a Grub Club volunteer

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 04:55:00 GMT

Rows of brown paper bags are lined up ready to be filled with the day’s lunch. Nearby, gracious hands make sandwiches and fill snack bags.

You can tell the whole operation is overseen by a former school teacher. There are charts. There are schedules. But most of all, there are big hearts.

The Grub Club in Tillamook is an entirely volunteer-run program that serves free lunches to kids 18 years and younger through the summer months. Former Tillamook School District elementary school teacher Scott Wenzel is in his second year overseeing the program, third year involved.

“In June, we average about 100 lunches a day,” he said. “Then in late July and all of August, we average about 300 a day when the summer schools are in session.”

On weekday mornings, volunteers arrive at Tillamook High School to prepare the day’s lunch. Sandwich makers, small baggers, ice chests preparers, and drivers are all essential to the operation. Each lunch is packed with a protein, vegetable, fruit, something to drink (generally milk), and sometimes a treat.

“I had to send a month-long sample menu to the Oregon Department of Education [ODE], and then they approve it,” Wenzel said.

After preparations, the lunches are packed and delivered to Grub Club locations at: Champion Park Apartments, Tillamook County Family YMCA, Glenhaven Park Apartments, Trask River Apartments, and the Tillamook County Library (main branch). *See flyer for lunch times. Lunches are free to kids under the age of 18. Adults need not be present.

Funding for the lunch program is reimbursed by the ODE, but all legwork is done locally.

“We have to fill out all kinds of paperwork,” Wenzel said. “ODE does checks, approvals, and they send people out to inspect facilities.”

Planning, prepping, and delivering 100-plus lunches is reliant on those willing to donate their time.

“We definitely need volunteers all the time. We don't need money. ODE provides all that,” Wenzel said. “We need people to make sandwiches, people to do small bagging, and people to drive.”

Wenzel detailed that volunteering doesn’t have to be a huge commitment. Help can be lent for a day or all summer, with shifts lasting as short as an hour.

Cristi Shirk has been a Grub Club volunteer for the past 12 years. She learned about the program after attending an informational meeting hosted by the Tillamook Rotary Club.

“I worked in the schools for 30 years and I just knew there was a need,” Shirk said. “So, I just keep coming.”

Based on the State of Oregon’s October 2022 School Nutrition Program report, five Tillamook School District schools have over 50 percent of the student’s population that are eligible for free or reduced lunch. Wilson River School and Liberty Elementary School are the highest with 94.5 and 67.74 percent of students eligible for meal programs.

At the start of 2024, Tillamook School District introduced the Community Eligibility Provision that made all enrolled students of Tillamook School District eligible to receive a breakfast and lunch (including one milk) at school at no charge. Free and reduced meal applications are no longer required.

Until school resumes and students have access to the Community Eligibility Provision program, Grub Club will bridge the gap. Lunches are served Monday through Friday, until August 30. No lunches will be served on July 4.

The Grub Club host organization is the Tillamook United Methodist Church .

To volunteer, reach out to Wenzel at scottkarenanna@yahoo.com

Tillamook dairy finds winner in ‘coffee milk’

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 14:39:00 GMT

Not too sweet. Just enough coffee. And, above all else, creamy milk. These combined flavors are what is earning Rose Valley Creamery’s “coffee milk” its own fan group.

Rose Valley Creamery is a small, family-run dairy located in Tillamook. The farm is primarily operated by married couple of 31 years Devin and Elena Johnston, with assistance from their five adult children.

“Our two daughters Ruth and Louisa are a vital part of our daily life and business,” Elena said. “Not only do they help with the bottling plant, they also help with chores and herd health decisions on a daily basis. Our son Isaac is our mechanic/fabricator/builder and stepping into the role of forest manager. Worth helps with delivering milk, haying, and he and our son Sam help wherever is needed. They are such a big part of this.”

The farm has been in Devin’s family for 84 years with five generations of dairy farmers having worked the land.

“Ever since I was a little kid, this is what I wanted to do,” Devin said, looking out at his herd of 20 cows.

Milk from the dairy was produced for several different creameries through the years include the Tillamook County Creamery Association, and most recently, Organic Valley Creamery out of McMinnville.

In November 2022, Devin and Elena decided to switch gears and bottle and sell their farm-fresh milk themselves.

“That was a big decision. It was frightening,” Elena said.

The Johnston’s farm has been certified organic for 14 years, but the family has been farming in that manner before “organic” was even a category. Even after leaving Organic Valley, the Johnstons have maintained the practice.

“We’ve remained a grass-fed cow dairy,” Elena said. “Our cows don’t eat any grains.”

Every 12 hours, the herd is moved to a fresh section of pasture on the Johnston’s 70-acre farm.

The cattle forage on grasses and forbs of: clover, kale, chicory, dandelion, plantain, peas, vetch, and chickweed.

“We're trying to get a variety of species because they all have medicinal purposes,” Elena said. “They’re really good for the soil and it's good for the cows.”

Rose Valley Creamery cows’ diet is supplemented with certified organic or non-GMO hay, and no hormones are used on the dairy.

“Their diet and stress levels makes a huge difference,” Elena said. “So, the funny thing about that is as our cows have gotten healthier, they also live longer. Then, we have a whole bunch of old cows that have geriatric problems. It’s stuff that we've never had to deal with before, like arthritis.”

The oldest cow on the farm is 16 years old.

“My dad and grandpa had this way of thinking for farming,” Devin said. “I mean, we like our cows. Why wouldn't we want them to live as long as they possibly can?”

The cows diet is not the only thing the couple pays attention to when it comes to the herd’s health.

Twice a day cows are brought in for milking. Elena does the milking, while Devin feeds them. Between the two sessions, 80-90 gallons of milk are collected.

“We were updating the parlor and saw an article in a dairy magazine about lameness,” Elena recalled. “It said that the more a cow turns on a cement surface, an increase is seen in lameness in the herd.”

The Johnstons reconfigured their parlor to eliminate the number of turns for the cows in the milking process.

“When we built this, we wanted them to come straight in and pretty much straight out,” Elena said. “Literally within a month, we had no more lame cows. It was immediate, which was really interesting. You wouldn't think it would be something that simple.”

After collection, the milk is processed, pasteurized, and bottled all onsite at the farm. Rose Valley Creamery describes their pasteurization process as “low and slow” which helps the milk retain nutrients and enzymes typically lost in high heat or ultra-high heat pasteurization.

“Our quality has always been very high,” Devin said. “If we can provide a high-quality product for people at price they can afford, that makes us happy.”

The milk is “cream top” meaning that it is in the form as it comes from the cow. In each bottle, the cream will float to the top of the container. Shaking gently is suggested prior to consuming.

Rose Valley Creamery sells bottles of whole milk as well as seasonal flavors such as coffee milk, chocolate, and maple spice.

“We looked at a lot of companies that make mixes for people who want to make [flavored milk],” Elena said. “But, then we looked at the ingredients and it was icky. So, I have a propane stove in the plant and I mix up my own syrups. It’s all homemade.”

Once bottled, the Johnstons distribute the milk themselves. In Tillamook County, Rose Valley Creamery milk is sold at Tillamook Grocery Outlet , Valley Fresh Produce, Fresh Foods Manzanita , Bear Creek Artichokes , and Cape Kiwanda Marketplace . Rose Valley Creamery milk is also served at JAndy Oyster Company . Additional vendor locations can also be found in the Willamette Valley area. Look for the watercolor painting of “Rose” the cow on their label.

“We want to be a small farm and have it make enough money to pay the bills,” Elena said. “We can’t afford to pay to have anybody help us. But, on the other hand, we like having quality control over every single aspect including putting it on the grocery store shelves.”

The Johnstons credit the Tillamook Bay Small Business Development Center for creating a connection to Grocery Outlet that then led to their milk products being carried in additional locations in Seaside, Beaverton, Portland, Dallas, and Independence.

Rose Valley Creamery recently received a Dairy Business Initiative Grant from USDA to purchase butter equipment.

“I've made butter in the kitchen for a long, long time,” Elena said. “But, doing it on a bigger scale could be really different. So, we'll see how it goes.”

For locations of bottled products and more information on Rose Valley Creamery milk, visit their website at rosevalleycreamery.com .

Cheesemaker graduate becomes Tillamook’s first female FFA State Officer

Sun, 02 Jun 2024 17:50:00 GMT

Vivian Seaholm remembers sitting in the audience at the 2024 Oregon FFA State Convention, her heart racing. They were about to announce the 2024/25 State Officers . She was up for election.

“During the State Convention you give speeches and it’s a whole processes to become a state officer. The last day is when they announce who was elected,” Seaholm recalled. “You’re sitting there with thousands of people not knowing if you’re going to do this job for the next year. It’s such a nerve-wracking thing. I remember sitting there and holding the person’s hand next to me.”

The treasurer’s position was announced. Seaholm’s name was called.

“I stood up and screamed,” she said. “I walked up to the stage and started bawling. I was just so happy.”

Seaholm’s election makes her the first female from the Tillamook FFA Chapter to serve as a State Officer. She’s also only one of five total from the chapter to serve since its inception in 1949. Most recently, Tillamook’s Ryan Mizee served this past year as Oregon FFA State Secretary.

“It’s super cool to represent and go down in history,” Seaholm said.

For the next year, Seaholm will spend most of her time traveling around Oregon and the United States promoting the organization.

“This really is what I want to do; I want to serve others,” said Seaholm. “To me, that’s such a fulfilling life. I really love the leadership part of FFA, that’s where I thrive. I’m the happiest in a leadership position and seeing the potential in people.”

Seaholm joined the Tillamook FFA Chapter in 8th grade. She began by showing animals at the Tillamook County Fair.

“I started really getting involved by becoming an officer my freshman year,” she said. “That’s when I dived into it. My main influence was that my dad was involved in agriculture. So, an agriculture-based association was a way that we could connect. Plus, all the cool high schoolers were involved in it.”

During her high school years, Seaholm held leadership positions as a Greenhand Officer, Chapter Sentinel, Chapter Secretary, Chapter Vice President, and Northwest District Chapter President. She’s competed in livestock judging, food science, dairy food science, and currently raises a heard of 20 lambs.

Seaholm advises those interested in FFA to not let perceived barriers stop their interest or involvement.

“Students can be involved in FFA without having an animal,” Seaholm said. “They can raise bees, have an agricultural-based podcast, or manage the high school’s greenhouse. Animals are such a small part. There’s so much more that you can do in FFA.”

Outside of FFA, during her high school years, Seaholm was also a varsity cross country runner, participated on the trap shooting team, played the saxophone in band, and was on Charity Drive Council.

“Live in the moment. That’s something I’m really passionate about,” she said. “You’re never going to have this day again.”

Seaholm said her parents supported her many endeavors and were the ones getting her to and from her many extracurricular activities.

“My mom and dad drove me to so many places. I can’t image those gas prices,” she laughed. “My mom has been awesome and my best friend through this whole process. I think she’s been more nervous than I have.”

After serving as state officer, Seaholm said she wants to continue on the path of serving others.

“I never wanted to go straight into college after high school,” Seaholm said. “Originally, I was interested in going into the military or I’ve thought about teaching overseas. I want to be a servant leader before I do anything for myself.”

Seaholm looks back on her time in the community with fondness.

“I’ve lived here since I was 7-8 years old,” she said. “Tillamook is very supportive of their youth. There’s a lot of love for the high school. It’s a good place to grow up, a lot of good values that you don’t find in a lot of other place.”

And a message to her fellow graduates: “Can’t wait to see you at the reunion. Thank you for being so welcoming.”

Stay at Goodspeed home one last time

Wed, 15 May 2024 16:00:00 GMT

The floral carved staircase inside the Goodspeed home took quite a journey to get to Tillamook.

The story goes that it was shipped from Europe, traveled south around the Cape Horn of Chile and then up north to Oregon. It was installed inside the Victorian-style home built by Eli and Henry Goodspeed in 1890.* It’s still there to this day.

“I love this home, when we came to look at it...I walked in and just knew we had to have it,” current owner of the home Natalie Pataki said. “I love history and antiques and this place has so much history and love.”

Eli Goodspeed was a prominent dairy farmer in the founding days of Tillamook. He was born in Genesee County, New York on December 30, 1827, one of seven children. After Eli’s father died when Eli was 10-yeard old, he helped support his family on their small rural farm. As a young man, Eli moved from New York to Ohio. It’s there that he married Emmarett Moffitt. They had three children: Columbus, Emma, and Henry. In 1863, the family traveled to Oregon by ox and wagon. They lived in various areas in the state until 1876 when Eli purchased 164 acres in Tillamook County. The deed to the land was signed by President Ulysses Grant.

Eli and Emmarett’s youngest son Henry, nicknamed “Monty,” called Tillamook home for most of this life. He married Lillian Miller and inherited part of her father’s property which is now Tillamook’s Goodspeed Park.

In 1890, Eli and Monty took out a building loan of $3,000 to construct the still-standing home on 1st Street. It was intended to be a showcase in Tillamook as Monty and Lillian were known for their progressive tastes and modern conveniences.

The home remained in the Goodspeed family until the 1970s and then had several different owners before falling into disrepair. By 2015, major renovations were made to the property and in 2021 Natalie and her husband Peter Sok purchased the historic home.

“I'm glad the previous owners put so much love into it,” Natalie said. “We still have the original floors, most of the walls have been replaced with drywall, but we have noticed some spots with plaster behind some of the trim. They left a space under the stairs unfinished where you can see what the shiplap walls look like. We have a lot of the original fixtures and chandeliers stored in the attic as well. One is still used in our master bedroom.”

Natalie also loves the personalized Goodspeed cups that came with the home’s kitchen.

Once purchasing the home, the couple decided to share the historical charm with travelers. Natalie and Peter live in an addition off the back of the home, while they rent their upstairs two-bedroom suite on Airbnb.

“Our suite is a little slice of history, like a museum you can sleep in,” Natalie said. “We have decorated the space with many antiques and beautiful vintage items. Some of the furniture is even over 130 years old, like the house!”

With a baby on the way for the Pataki family, this is the last summer they plan to rent out rooms. Book your stay in this historic home while you can!

Bookings for the “1890s Victorian Queen Anne on the Oregon Coast” can be made at Airbnb .

*Historical information provided by Tillamook County Pioneer Museum

Chance encounter brings award-wining harpist to Pacific City

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 21:24:00 GMT

A harp. Irish culture. And the Sportsman’s Pub in Pacific City. What do they all have in common? Each play a role in the trajectory of Sharlys Dugan Leszczuk’s life.

At the age of four, Sharlys remembered wanting to be just like her older brother.

“My mother’s goal was when we both turned six, she would start us on instruments,” Sharlys said. “My brother, Connor, turned six first and he started playing the fiddle. So, when I saw him playing, I just felt left out.”

Growing up, music was always present in the family’s home. Sharlys’ mother was a well-trained pianist, and eventually a harpist.

“I only knew the fiddle, the piano, and the harp because those were the instruments in my house,” Sharlys said. “So, when it was my turn to choose an instrument, I chose the harp.”

Sharlys started on a much smaller harp than she plays now. But she remembers that at four, her arms still could not reach all the strings, so she would just play the ones closest to her.

“Every day I would come home from school and practice for 30 minutes to an hour. My mom made me practice every single day through thick and thin and I just stuck with it,” she said.

Sharlys described her parents as blue-collar workers. Her father is a first-generation American from Eastern European descent and worked as a mechanic for the United States Postal Service. Her mother is of Irish decent and worked as an esthetician and hair and makeup artist. Sharlys said her parents hoped music would equip their children with skills that could open future opportunities.

“They knew when they had kids that they weren't going to have the means to send us to college,” Sharlys said. “My mom also knew all the educational benefits from playing music.”

As the children became proficient in their instruments, the family formed their band: Dugan's Hooligans , a Celtic eclectic ensemble. “Dugan,” the maternal family name, paired well with the band’s Irish-style music and is a name that Sharlys embraced as her stage name.

“My mom played the piano and a little bit of the harp. I played the harp, the tin whistle, sang, and Irish step-danced. My brother played the fiddle,” Sharlys said. “With us side-by-side, it was this cute little recipe for a successful family band.”

The band started with just the three family members. After some time, another element was added.

“My dad was our roadie for the longest time, and then my mom said we needed a drummer,” Sharlys remembered. So, Dugan’s father took up the bodhrán (Irish drum).

Living less than an hour from New York City, Dugan’s Hooligans performed at various venues in the New York / New Jersey area.

“My family would always have dinner together and then, if we had a gig coming up, we would play music after dinner. Music was our priority.”

As young musicians, Sharlys and her brother would also compete in music competitions. At eight, Sharlys won her first North Atlantic Irish Harp championship which she held for three consecutive years. When she was 10, the siblings both advanced from their regional Fleadh Irish Music Competition to the world-wide competition hosted in Ireland.

“I definitely feel really connected to the Irish community just because I've met so many people from Ireland, or who play Irish music. I grew up hearing the Irish accents and being surrounded by the Irish community,” Sharlys said. “My harp teacher came to the U.S. from Ireland when she was very young. I heard so much about it through these connections. Plus, every song about Ireland talks about how beautiful it is and its history.”

After graduating high school, Sharlys went off to college and focused on her studies in public relations, taking a break from playing the harp.

“I originally declared a music minor, but I ended up not pursuing that path,” she said. “But, growing up performing taught me how to be on a stage, public speak, put together a program, and engage an audience. It helped build a lot of confidence in me.”

Her degree in public relations came in handy when she decided to start performing again.

“I was learning about marketing, email newsletters, social media, and I grasped onto that,” Sharlys said. “I started email newsletter campaigns and that's how I kicked off my solo music career in New Jersey.”

Beyond music, Sharlys is an avid traveler. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Sharlys was working remotely and decided to take a couple road trips around the country; one would alter her lifepath.

“People always told me to visit the Northwest because I’d really like it,” Sharlys said. “I flew to Eugene and rented a car. I was driving up the Oregon Coast and I had two days to kill before I was meeting up with a friend in Portland.”

Sharlys said on her second day she found herself at the Sportsman’s Pub in Pacific City .

“It was the middle of the summer and this guy knew that I wasn't from town,” Sharlys recalled. “He came up to me and his first question was: ‘Where are you from?’”

Sharlys told him she was from the area, a response she always uses as a safety precaution when traveling solo.

“He replied: ‘Okay, first lie out of the way,’” Sharlys laughed. “It’s crazy that he knew I was from out of town because our community is so small and he knows everybody who walks into Sportsman’s. So, that was a cute little icebreaker.”

Their happenchance meeting at the pub proved to be the start of their story as a couple. The two both offered to uproot their lives to move to either coast to be with one another. In the end, Sharlys decided to relocate to Pacific City.

“As soon as he said that we would sell his tools and business and move to New Jersey, I said: ‘Great. Thanks for offering. I’m going to close my laptop, get on a plane, and move to Oregon.’ People always tell me that it sounds like a book…and it does.”

After taking some time to settle in and acclimate to the community, an unexpected job situation brought harp playing back into Dugan’s life.

“I was working remotely and I got laid off,” Sharlys said. “So, one of the first ideas that came to my mind was to start harp playing.”

She hadn’t brought a harp with her in the move, so she sought out a secondhand one from a seller in Portland.

“I started playing again and designing my program. Then, late last year I started my email marketing. I researched the local libraries and sent out emails to those people. I mentioned that I'm here and that if they're looking for live music performances, I'm available.”

Her outreach worked: the Tillamook Library invited Sharlys to play at the main branch on March 16. It was her first performance on the west coast.

“It's extremely generous of them and shows how focused and dedicated they are to bringing live music and different kinds of culture to the area. It’s not easy to find local musicians when you’re so far from a major metro area.”

Her first performance was met with a full house and Sharlys was invited to return for additional performances within the Tillamook Library branch system.

“I think people always associate the harp with slow, boring, sing-songy things,” Sharlys said. “But the way I structure my programs is fast-paced, engaging, funny, and incorporates so many elements. Some people are just mesmerized by how fast my fingers can move.”

When not playing the harp, Sharlys is a licensed real estate agent with Windermere Pacific City , works part-time in the office of Nestucca High School, and is the Bobcat’s JV volleyball coach.

“I was working remotely and I just felt like I was locked in a little room in my house; I had no connection to this community,” Sharlys said. “When you live in a small town and you walk out the door and realize you're not contributing anything to it, it's kind of demoralizing. So, once I had the layoff, I wanted to get more involved.”

Sharlys also serves as the vice chair for the Pacific City-Woods Citizens Advisory Committee .

“That has been a really cool way to stay connected to the community and learn about what's going on,” she said.

With all her connections, Sharlys writes a blog that highlights hyper-local businesses and upcoming events in Pacific City.

In May, Sharlys plans to travel back to New Jersey to once again compete in the Fleadh Irish Music Competition.

Catch Sharlys’s next harp performance at the Rockaway Beach Library on April 27 at 11 a.m.

For more information on Dugan’s music, visit sharlysdugan.com .

Pink Ink

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 19:04:00 GMT

Female tattoo artists grow industry in Tillamook County

The Tillamook Coast seems to draw artists to the area. Painters come to paint the landscape. Photographers capture the sunsets. And now, a growing category of tattoo artists are leaving permanent ink on locals and passerthroughs. In particular, this past year four female tattoo artists have established businesses in Tillamook County, another already exists with an established presence . This is their feature: Lisa Sutton (Electric Quill, Nehalem), Sara Peterson (MTNTOP Tattoo, Garibaldi), Clover O'Connor (Toth Collective, Tillamook), Megan Gill (Suite D Tattoo, Pacific City), and Maisie Siegel (J. Marie Salon, Nehalem).

Lisa Sutton, Electric Quill, Nehalem

By the age of 18, Lisa Sutton had nearly 20 tattoos.

“I got my first tattoo at 13 in someone’s basement,” she recalled. Intrigued by the artistry, she engineered her own machine out of parts she found around her home, and started using her skin as her own personal canvas.

But, life in her youth was hard.

“I had no other choice, but to take care of myself,” Sutton said. “My friends would go out to lunch and ask if I wanted anything. I’d say I didn’t want anything, but really I didn’t have $2 for a hamburger.”

She ended up dropping out of school (though did eventually earn her GED), and struggled to find employment because—she had tattoos.

“I couldn’t get jobs,” Sutton said. “I had to cover up my tattoos and wear band aides.”

With limited job prospects, a counselor recommended that Sutton enroll in a program that offered at-risk youth the opportunity for tattoo removal.

“I wouldn’t have done it, but I had to,” Sutton said. “I couldn't be who I was.”

Through the program, Sutton’s tattoos were removed. Her outward appearance became “acceptable” to employers, but she didn’t feel authentic to herself.

“That’s why it’s so important to me,” Sutton said gesturing towards her current tattoos. As an adult, she’s started over: adding pieces of art back to her skin. Full leg and arm sleeves. A neck piece. A stomach piece. It’s been a process to become who she’s always wanted to be.

And now, she’s sharing her passion for the artform.

In her decade as a professional tattoo artist, Sutton’s personal experience is often why she suggests that others “add” to tattoos instead of remove or cover them.

“You wanted something at one time. If I ask you about it, there’s usually a crazy story about it,” Sutton said. “Let’s add to it. Tattoos are meaningful to people. It’s about what they’ve had in the past.”

Sutton began her tattoo artist career during a time when women were rare in the business.

“The industry was more volatile,” she said. “More ‘bikers’ were in it. You couldn’t just go to tattoo school. The ladies I knew who had been in shops got a small percentage from the shops. Historically, it was the shock value to have women tattooed. They were not reaping the benefits of the draw; it was all about the male artist.”

When Sutton was a kid in the 90s, she remembers that there were almost no female artists, but by the 2010s there were much more women in the industry.

“They were becoming very influential and inspirational,” Sutton said. “I don’t feel like the stigma is there [anymore]. There are a lot of female artists.”

But, it still took Sutton four years of asking and asking to finally to get a legitimate apprenticeship (as required in Colorado at the time).

Her persistence paid off: she’s now the co-owner of two tattoo shops.

“I can’t imagine doing anything else,” Sutton said.

Along with her husband (Jeff), Sutton owns a tattoo shop in the Denver area, and their newest location, Electric Quill in Nehalem, Oregon. The shop offers tattoo art and professional piercing.

“Something just felt right here. You see a space and just feel it,” she said. “It’s a place for us to focus on us and our art.”

Sutton describes her tattoo art style as traditional and neo-traditional.

“It’s absolutely timeless; a unique artform that’s going away,” she said. “It’s going to look the same in 70 years as it does right now.”

In addition to her experience, Sutton also has a love for the history of tattooing.

“Ancient humans in history would identify what tribe they were from with tattoos; they were a history of that person,” Sutton said. “Acquiring ink and color was not easy. It was expensive and wars were fought over it. The ancient symbolism: that’s romantic to me.”

In additional to body art, Sutton also offers permanent makeup services.

“Permanent makeup takes more training. You have to know about pigments, the size of the molecules, and what color to use,” she said. Popular requests for permanent makeup include: eyebrows, eyeliner, lips, and freckles.

Since opening Electric Quill, Sutton said the locals have embraced their family and business.

“We’re really grateful they’ve been so supportive,” she said. “It’s such a small, tight-knit community. A safe space. This is what I love to do. It doesn’t feel like work.”

Appointments for services at Electric Quill can be made online . Electric Quill is located at 35990 7th St, Nehalem.

Sara Peterson, MTNTOP Tattoo, Garibaldi

“I am good enough.”

That’s what Sara Peterson’s thigh tattoo reads.

It’s not a message for the world, but one for herself. The words are inked so they’re right-side up for her eyes.

“I can read it when I’m sitting or when I’m sad,” Peterson said. “It’s a reminder that I AM good enough; I’m someone worth fighting for.”

It’s a statement from an overcomer.

“Growing up was really hard. [My accomplishments] now are a cool part of my testimony,” she said.

Peterson spent most of her youth in the Gresham area, lacking parental and adult support.

“I was an emotionally troubled child and got my emotions out in my art and poetry,” Peterson said. “It was a way for me to deal with my inner demons.”

She dropped out of school in fifth grade. But, better things were headed her way.

When she was about freshman-age, Peterson reconnected with her father.

“It was a godsend when he came into my life,” she said. “I was getting into a lot of trouble and wasn’t doing good.”

Peterson moved with her father to Rockaway Beach and he enrolled her at Neah-Kah-Nie High School. There, she found incredible educational support. By her sophomore year, she was caught up in her studies.

“A lot of my teachers stayed after school to catch me up,” Peterson said. “That’s what I loved about that school.”

A small relocation in Tillamook County moved Peterson into the Tillamook School District where she graduated in 2012. She was offered a local college scholarship, but Peterson said she regrettably, “threw that opportunity away.”

Married young with two kids, Peterson recalled not knowing what she really wanted to do career-wise. It wasn’t until her marriage dissolved that she decided to get licensed as a tattoo artist.

“I never thought I’d do this.”

Peterson started with cosmetic tattoos and then, after gaining some confidence, tapped into the realm of body art.

“I’m still taking classes online to keep up with the different styles,” she said. “I’m learning a good mix of them so, if there’s a style someone wants, I can execute it.”

In August 2023, MTNTOP Tattoo owner Darin Tone invited Peterson to be the second artist in his Garibaldi shop.

“He’s helping me a lot and gives me a lot of pointers,” she said. “He wants me to succeed because then his shop also succeeds.”

While she’s found a supportive work environment, entering what was once a male-dominated field created some apprehension.

“As a woman in the tattoo industry, I was scared that men were going to be my competition,” Peterson said. “There are different stigmas. I’ve heard from people that they won’t get tattooed by a woman. But often, women will take their time and don’t rush through. I’m pretty competitive and, as a woman in the industry, I do want to prove myself. Women need to not be fearful. Let being a woman be your motivation, don’t let it be your setback.”

Clients often seek out Peterson for her skill in miniature, script, and fine-line tattooing.

“With fine-line, you have to be perfect as soon as you touch the skin,” she said. “I’m down-to-earth and I pay attention to detail.”

But, Peterson has also found reward in challenging herself.

“I do try and push myself,” she said. “If I don’t venture out, I’m never going to learn. I love the artistic freedom of doing bigger pieces. I love when people say, ‘Go with your creative freedom.’

I get to learn something new with every piece that I do.”

Peterson also enjoys the therapeutic element of giving someone a tattoo.

“Darin and I call it ‘shop talk:’ whatever is said here, we don’t talk about it elsewhere,” she said. “They’re telling me their life stories…I love that they would trust me enough to share that.”

When she sets down her tattoo pen, Peterson is home being as present as she can be with her three kids. And learning more about who she is.

“My boyfriend of three years asked, “What makes you, you?,’” she recalled. “I said: ‘I’m a mom.’ But, I didn’t know what made me, me.”

So, she ordered an easel, some canvas, and pastel paints.

“I’ve started getting back into it.”

Yet, even through the process of self-discovery, Peterson stands firm in the fact that: she is enough.

Appointments for Sara’s Tattoo Beauty Bar can be made through Instagram or by emailing: sarastattoobeautybar@gmail.com . MTNTOP Tattoo shop is located at 402 Garibaldi Ave, Garibaldi.

Clover O'Connor, Toth Collective, Tillamook

Clover O’Connor begged her dad for her first tattoo.

“It’s a hand holding a knife. He really didn’t not want to do it but…”

She has it on her ankle.

With a parent as career tattoo artist, O’Connor doesn’t know a world without tattoos.

“I had a natural proclivity; I started drawing after I’d already seen tattooing,” she said. “My drawings are a tattoo style. I tend to be a really anxious person. Whenever I’m drawing or tattooing, especially tattooing, I’m put into a flow state where my brain doesn’t think about anything else.”

But, I actually didn’t consider it as a career option until I was in Florida and bored out of my mind.”

After a few moves around the country, O’Connor ended up back on the Oregon Coast. She’d spent her middle and high school years at Neah-Kah-Nie, graduating in 2020.

Through acquaintances, O’Connor met Tillamook local, and highly regarded tattoo artist, Mike Toth. After a look through her portfolio, she was offered a spot at Toth Collective upon completion of her tattoo schooling.

“I feel like I’ve been delt a really lucky hand,” O’Connor said. “It’s hard for somebody to get into this industry. I definitely lucked out somehow.”

O’Connor attended Hot Rod Bettie’s Tattoo School in Salem—the same place her dad is an artist.

“While I was in school I got to hang out with him,” she said. “I’m so thankful for how, even when I was in school, people would drive all the way out to be tattooed by me.”

Although O’Connor was introduced to the trade in her youth, she acknowledges that historically others had a harder time gaining exposure.

“Tattooing used to be a secret trade. The knowledge was so shielded and I feel like it’s not like that anymore,” O’Connor said. “It’s all around more accessible for people.”

She graduated in September 2023 and returned to Tillamook to work at Toth Collective .

“I’ve had so much overwhelming support from everyone,” O’Connor said. “I’ve had a pretty easy time building clientele here because I have those preexisting relationships. People like to come to me because they know me and are comfortable with me.”

O’Connor’s style is classic, but she hasn’t written off evolving in her artform.

“I really want to be well-rounded in everything. I never want to stop learning,” she said. “I’m excited to meet people in the industry and form relationships. I want to be a respectable, great tattoo artist. I want to create a comfortable environment for people getting tattooed and give people artwork they really love on their bodies.”

In her free time, well, O’Connor thinks about tattooing.

“Tattooing never ends,” she laughed. “I tattoo all day and then I go home and I draw for my appointments the next day. It’s a never-ending cycle.”

O’Connor works by appointment only, Tuesday-Saturday. She can be r eached via social media .

Megan Gill, Suite D Tattoo, Pacific City

Memorial tattoos are a favorite for Megan Gill to give clients…and to receive.

“They are something that you’re always going to have with you. It’s a bit of that person or a memory that you carry with you. I have quite a few memorial tattoos, dedicated to someone that I’ve lost over the years.”

Overall, Gill has 30 tattoos of which she received her first at the age 16.

“It’s a form of self-expression,” she said.

Going from tattoo client to artist herself started with her career as an esthetician.

“After weighing it over and discussing it with my husband, it just made sense for me to add in cosmetic tattooing [to my business],” she said. “It kind of goes hand-in-hand.”

Commuting from the coast, Gill began at Hot Rod Bettie’s Tattoo School in 2017.

“I was already getting tattoos there, so they said: ‘Just do it, just come to school,’” Gill recalled. “I would have it done it sooner in life if I had another lady that I could have worked with. It was not that long ago tattooing was an apprenticeship program, pretty much a guy’s world. But now, you can just go to school. Rene Muzechenko (Hot Rod Bettie’s owner) was my teacher and confidant. She paved the way for people. She definitely saw that it was a hard field for women to get into.”

While cosmetic tattooing was Gill’s original focus in school, she soon added body art tattooing.

“I’ve always been an artist; I like working with my hands,” Gill said. “I’ve worked with crochet, fiber arts, sewing, and feathers. I used to sell my art at the Lincoln City Farmers Market.”

After completing tattoo school in 2018, Gill worked at Hot Rod Bettie’s for a little over a year, went on to co-own a cosmetology tattoo shop with Muzechenko in Lincoln City, and then eventually returned to her roots.

“I grew up in south Tillamook County and graduated from Nestucca High School,” Gill said. “Chase Moodie was starting tattoo school and we decided to open ‘Suite D Tattoo’ together in the late fall of 2019. We had a soft opening and planned to have a grand opening in March 2020, but we all know how that went.”

Despite the pandemic, Gill said that the shop in Pacific City received local backing.

“People in Tillamook County are really good at supporting their community. Everybody likes to support their local businesses,” she said.

At Suite D Tattoo, Gill offers both cosmetic and body art tattooing with a special eye for floral designs.

“It’s my first go-to. It’s my jam,” she said. “But, I’m always up for something new. I like to hear peoples’ ideas and bring their vision to fruition.”

Gill views her understanding of clients’ wishes as one of her strengths as an artist.

“I’ve found that communication is key between the artist and client,” she said. “You want to find someone that you’re comfortable with and listens to you.”

To book an appointment with Gill, call or text at 541-921-1935.

Suite D Tattoo is located at 35170 Brooten Rd Suite D Pacific City.

Maisie Siegel, J. Marie Salon, Nehalem

Maisie Siegel’s latest flash sheet is an ethereal garden.

“I’m leaning more into a smaller, fine-line, abstract, pointillism style,” Siegel said. “I do a lot of floral and designs inspired by nature.”

While new to the tattoo business, Siegel isn’t new to the area. She graduated from Neah-Kah-Nie High School in 2019 and attended Oregon State University until Covid-19 altered her path. She moved back to the Oregon Coast during the shutdown and worked various jobs before landing a job with Scovel Ink: a print shop in Manzanita.

“I worked there for a year and a half,” Siegel said. “While there, I designed and sold some sweatshirts. They were all my own designs and I printed them all myself in the shop.”

The creative innovation slowly sparked the idea for her career choice.

“Art is something that is close to my heart and I’ve done it forever,” she said. “It comes really natural to me.”

After some exposure to the tattoo industry, Siegel began researching the pathway to become licensed. She attended Captain Jack’s Tattoo School in Portland and graduated in 2021.

“Out of all the schools I really liked the environment and it worked with my learning style,” Siegel said. “Everyone came from different places, so there were many other artists that I got to learn from while I was there.”

After becoming licensed, the opportunity to offer tattoo services at J.Marie Salon in Nehalem arose and Siegel decided to return to Tillamook County.

“I’m really excited to be getting more clients,” Siegel said, naming her business Tats by M. “It’s finally coming true.”

Siegel said she really enjoys custom work and stenciling freehand on the body.

“I’m very into taking my time with placement. It’s easier to see how it looks with movement,” she said. “Tattoos are something you wear like jewelry: it’s an adornment.”

As an artist, incorporating clients’ ideas with her own style is a meaningful process.

“When people trust me to run with it, go abstract, and trust the process, that’s when I work best,” Siegel said. “Tattoos are a symbol of peoples' experiences and memories. That’s why I like to do custom stuff. If you like looking at a mountain, what angle do you usually see that mountain from? It makes it a little more personal.”

Siegel also appreciates the eternal memory she is creating.

“When you get a tattoo, you remember the place and the person that gave it to you,” she said. “Even if [one day] you don’t like the image, it’s still a memory of a time and it brings you back.”

Siegel is currently accepting bookings Friday-Monday. Appointments can be made online , by reaching out via social media channels , or emailing: tats.bym@gmail.com

“I know it sounds cheesy, but I want to make your dreams come true,” Siegel said. “I really like seeing the smile on someone’s face. It’s about what the tattoo means and being able to give that to someone.”

Off duty hiking

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 18:27:00 GMT

School resource officer by day, hiker by…off duty days. Trent Olson is often recognized in public for his two notable, community roles: school resource officer and hiking influencer.

Born and raised in Wisconsin, Olson grew up helping out on his uncle’s small dairy farm. The area also had a local creamery co-op, making it very similar to Tillamook County. After graduation, he joined the military and served a 20 year career as a military police officer in the United States Air Force. Olson married his wife, a Washington native, who introduced him to the Oregon Coast.

“When I met my wife, she asked if I’d ever been,” Olson said. Olson hadn’t, so the couple took their 10-day honeymoon traveling from Astoria to Newport.

“I’d never seen anywhere so green, lush, and beautiful,” Olson recalled.

The couple grew to a family of five and created a yearly tradition of traveling to the coast.

“Every single year we planned a trip and came out every year for 13 years in a row,” he said. “We would stay in Barview and would talk to the locals: everyone was so welcoming and so open.”

By their sixth or seventh year, Olson said the family began contemplating making the Oregon Coast their home.

“We started thinking about it, praying about it, and seeing what the Lord wanted to us to do,” Olson said.

After some searching, they found a house and relocated to the area in 2021.

“This is really meant to be,” Olson said. “I looked at the job environment out here and saw that law enforcement was always hiring. I was pretty confident that I could get a job.”

Olson was hired as a Tillamook Police officer shortly after their move and was appointed as the Tillamook School District School Resource Officer. He has a daily presence throughout the school district and connects with students and staff at all levels.

“The first priority is to ensure the safety of students and staff,” Olson said. “We make sure there’s a safe environment for people to go to.”

His second role is mentor.

“Sometimes kids’ only interaction with a law officer is when their parents are getting arrested,” said Olson. “I’m building relationships with kids and breaking down those walls and perceptions that kids may have with law enforcement. This was a great opportunity to connect with kids.”

During his off-time, Olson trades his badge for a pair of hiking boots.

“I’ve always been an outdoorsy person. It’s something I did growing up: hunting and fishing,” Olson said. “It wasn’t until I got here that I start taking pictures and video and posting on social media.”

In just over a year, “Hiking with Trent” social media accounts have garnered over 15,000 followers.

“I wanted to see where this would go, so I started posting almost every single day,” Olson said. “It took off like wildfire. It started with a basic Facebook page with a couple hundred friends, and then people just started commenting and reaching out.”

On his daily posts, Olson takes viewers on various hikes and outdoor excursions on the Oregon Coast—a majority of them in the Tillamook area.

“I feature all different places in Tillamook County just to show people what’s here. It’s such a cool area,” he said. “It’s fun, exciting, and a challenge to see what I can do next, like finding the hikes I haven’t done.”

Olson said he hikes every weekend, and sometimes can squeeze in an additional two-three hikes during the week.

“I’ve still only done about half of the hikes available,” he said.

Olson’s large following has earmarked him as a resource for many local and visiting hikers.

“So many people are contacting me and wanting to come visit me,” Olson laughed. “People ask me to recommend a good hike. I’ll ask them what they want to see and what they’re looking for before giving a recommendation.”

On the top of Olson’s list are spots in Rockaway Beach, Oswald West State Park, and his kids personal favorite, the Elk Flats Trail near Neah-Kah-Nie Mountain.

“I love the diversity: it’s the reason we moved here,” Olson said. “I can sit here and look at snowcap mountains, and then can get to the beach in 10 minutes.”

Olson is also drawn to any excursion that leads him to the showstoppers of the sea.

“I’m obsessed with starfish; they’re the coolest things. There are so many different varieties and colors,” he said.

With such interest in his outdoor ventures, Olson hopes to one day lead his online followers on in-person hikes.

“I want to make this a full-time a job,” he said. “I just need to figure out how.”

As a mentor in many ways, and an ever-growing internet audience, he’s well on his way.

Catch Olson’s daily hiking posts at “Trent Olson” on Facebook, or “Hiking with Trent” on Instagram and TikTok . Olson also collaborates with the Tillamook Coast Visitors Association to post outdoor content via their channels each Monday.

Called to serve

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 16:00:00 GMT

Kourtnie Zwald feels compelled to give back to the place that raised her.

“I know the people here and this community is near and dear to my heart.”

Last winter, Zwald was looking for a project—one that aligned with her spiritual gifts.

“I wanted to do something in outreach ministry,” Zwald said. “That’s always on my heart. I’m a people person and like to make connections with conversations.”

Zwald approached Living Water Fellowship Co-Lead Pastors Justin and Erin McMahan and asked what the priority outreach project was.

They directed her to Compassion Connec t.

The Portland-based organization originated in 2006 when several churches came together to provide free medical care clinics to the surrounding neighborhoods. The idea came after one of the participating church’s medical mission trips to Mexico. It sparked the question: “Why don’t we do this in our own backyard?.” Since then, the concept has been duplicated in numerous communities throughout Oregon (and beyond) with the main Compassion Connect organization providing guidance as well as medical and dental stations for each event.

Zwald was tasked with coordinating the inaugural Compassion Tillamook event.

“Sixteen people started planning this event a year ago,” Zwald said. “The exact people I needed to delegate to were there to make things happen. Leaders from six different churches, and more not [affiliated] with churches, were our main volunteer base. Several leaders stepped in; I was not alone.”

For the Feb. 25 Compassion Tillamook event, the group was able to recruit volunteer providers in medical, dental, vision, physical therapy, cosmetology, and counseling. Volunteers came from a variety of local and regional healthcare providers.

“Two weeks before the event we didn’t have any dental providers,” Zwald said. “Then, we had five hygienists and three dentists step up to volunteer. I trusted in the process and saw Him work.”

For the venue, Tillamook County Family YMCA and Liberty Elementary School provided gym space.

“Both had no hesitation to help,” Zwald said.

All services were offered to guests on a first come, first serve basis free of charge. Meals and childcare were also provided.

While promoting the event, Zwald said that the most frequently asked questions was: “Do I qualify?” She would emphatically reply that they did: there were no eligibility requirements.

“Our goal was to be able to reach those who fall through the cracks in the healthcare system,” Zwald said. “Lots of people have full-time jobs with healthcare benefits, but can’t afford to meet their deductible. It was fulfilling a need in our community.”

This year’s event provided 50 dental, 11 vision, 14 medical, eight footcare, and seven physical therapy appointments. Over 30 haircuts were given and over 300 lunches were served.

“It went AMAZINGLY,” Zwald wrote after the conclusion of the event. “Thank you to all the volunteers, social service leaders, non-profits, churches and the healthcare community for making Compassion year one such an amazing program. ”

Though the event was free to attendees, it costs the organization roughly $35 per appointment slot for supplies.

The Tillamook Area Chamber of Commerce Community Foundation gifted Compassion Tillamook $5,000 towards the event.

“As we look ahead to 2024, the Foundation is committed to nurturing and supporting local programs that align with our long-standing goal of—changing lives by building strong communities,” Tillamook Area Chamber of Commerce wrote on their Facebook page. “This particular initiative is more than a donation; it's a promise to invest in the well-being and prosperity of our neighbors, underlining our dedication to fostering a compassionate and cohesive environment for all. Together, we are making a profound difference. ”

Coordinating community give back events is not new for Zwald. She spent years helping host the Cause for Paws Tillamook Mutt Strutt which raised money for the Tillamook Animal Shelter in honor of Sondi Greene.

“Many of the skills needed to coordinate that event transferred to Compassion Tillamook,” Zwald said.

The desire to serve her community is something Zwald says is a call on her life, and planning for Compassion Tillamook 2025 is already in the works.

“I grew up in church, but dedicated myself to the Lord in 2018. I’m actually walking with the Holy Spirit now. It’s a new walk in life,” she said.

Zwald is a graduate of Tillamook High School and is married to her high school (or more like preschool) sweetheart Nick Zwald.

“We dated in junior high school, reconnected in high school, and then married in 2012,” Zwald said. “We’ve crossed the point in time where we’ve been together for the majority of our lives.”

Together the couple has two daughters ages eight and four.

“After my second daughter, I had this feeling like I needed something for myself again. But, something where I could still prioritize my stay-at-home role,” she said.

This coming September, Zwald will celebrate three years as a real estate agent for D ecker Real Estate in Tillamook.

“I love the small town feel that when you walk into a store you know people,” Zwald said. “And I enjoy supporting people in finding their homes.”

For more information on how to get involved with Compassion Tillamook or to donate, visit their website .

Backstage with TAPA’s Chris & Robert

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 17:00:00 GMT

Robert Buckingham recalls the sound of the rain on the roof of his Jeep Wrangler as he arrived in Tillamook. He remembers the surrounding trees. The fresh air. An overwhelming feeling.

“I had this sense of home. I’m finally home,” Buckingham said.

His spouse, Chris Chiola, didn’t have the same initial reaction.

Chiola had accepted a position with Tillamook County as their new Environmental Program Manager. He relocated for the job from Colorado and on his first day in town it was also cold and rainy.

“I called Robert and said I wasn’t sure about this,” Chiola remembered. “He told me to give it another night. The next day I drove up to the Cape Meares Lighthouse and that [negative] feeling subsided. I thought, ‘Okay, this is it.’”

Buckingham also accepted a job with Tillamook County as an Appraiser for the Assessor’s Office.

“My mom grew up in California, so as a kid we would spend a lot of summers there,” Buckingham said. “I always knew that I wanted to live next to the ocean.”

Not long after moving to town, a friend reached out to see if they’d be interested in joining the local theater group: Tillamook Association for the Performing Arts [TAPA] .

Buckingham declined at first, but Chiola jumped at the opportunity. His acting debut was in TAPA’s production of “Proof” in 2006.

“Being on stage is such a fantastic rush,” Chiola said. “There’s nothing like when the lights are down and we’re quiet backstage; it’s just awesome. As adults, we get to play dress up.”

Buckingham went to watch the production and was convinced he also needed to be a part of TAPA.

“When I came to see the play here, I was so impressed with the level of dedication and how serious everyone took it. It was a legit play,” Buckingham said.

The following season, Buckingham joined his first TAPA production: “An adult evening of Shel Silverstein.”

Since joining nearly 18 years ago, Buckingham and Chiola have remained an integral part of TAPA: producing, directing, and acting in dozens of productions. The two have also held positions on the Board of Directors: Chiola is currently the president and Buckingham is the marketing and media chair.

“I love TAPA. I don’t know what I would do without it,” Buckingham said. “This is our creative outlet.”

This past February, the two had a chance to perform on stage together for TAPA’s production of: “Dial M for Murder.” Buckingham had dual roles: directing and acting in the role of Chief Inspector Hubbard. Chiola starred as Tony Wendice.

“I was so pleased with how it all turned out,” Buckingham said. “It was so wonderfully written. I love England, the 50s, and it was neat to direct a time period piece.”

In fact, the production turned out so well that it became Buckingham’s all-time favorite. Mainly because of the lack of drama—pun intended.

“I couldn’t do it without such dedicated actors,” he said. “Mostly the people are what made it my favorite. Everyone got along and we all worked well together. It was just a wonderful team.”

This spring, both Chiola and Buckingham have upcoming director roles in each of their preferred genres: comedy for Chiola and something edgier for Buckingham. Chiola will be directing the sequel to last year’s popular “Four Old Broads” with “Four Old Broads on the High Seas” slated for show dates in June. Buckingham will be directing “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” with shows in September.

Auditions for each show will be announced via TAPA’s social media channels and on their website .

“[If you’re new], join the crew and feel the rhythm of a production, then do some smaller parts,” Chiola said. “You get drawn into it. It’s something we get to do other than our jobs. It’s a way to be creative and contribute.”

Outside of their work at the County and TAPA, the couple enjoys spending time with their three dogs and two cats. And, catching Madonna on tour.

They recently celebrated 30 years together.

“We met at a nightclub on Sept. 11, 1993 in Fort Collins, CO,” Buckingham said.

The two met by happenchance as neither was living in the area at the time.

“We met briefly and Chris handed me his business card,” Buckingham said. “I wrote him a letter. This was before the internet or email.”

Chiola returned Buckingham’s letter with a call, and they established a life together in Colorado for several years.

In 2014, the couple married shortly after the State of Oregon and Tillamook County legalized same-sex marriage.

“My mom is an Episcopal priest. We asked her to officiate for us,” Buckingham said. “We were married on my [grandmother’s] birthday. It was very special for mom.”

On the day of the wedding, 50 attendees came out to support their union—more than they were anticipating.

With both working for Tillamook County, their day jobs can sometimes cross paths.

“I’ll be out at a jobsite and I always love that when people say something about [Chiola] it’s always good. That makes me so proud of him.”

And just like their first couple days in town, Chiola and Buckingham have continued to feel at home in Tillamook.

“ We just love this community.”

Tillamook Association for the Performing Arts is located at 1204 Ivy Ave, Tillamook.

Struggling student to stellar educator

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 23:05:00 GMT

Tillamook High School science teacher Slade Sapora claims he was a terrible student.

“I couldn’t sit still. I was always bored,” he recalls of his time in school.

Growing up in Brookings, OR, a place he describes as “a lot like Tillamook,” Sapora knew he wanted to one day have a job in botany or geology.

“I always liked science and I wanted to know the names of every plant or be able to pick up a rock and know where it came from,” he said.

During his young adult summers, Sapora worked by himself for months on end in a fire lookout tower. Anticipating isolation for a few months at a time, he would pack his old science books and do a lot of self-learning.

“The first couple days are hard, and then it’s a lot of meditating,” Sapora said.

The majority of his time working for the Chetco Fire District in the Siskiyou National Forest (nicknamed the “asbestos forest” for the ever-lingering fog), fire watch was uneventful. But, Sapora recalled one night that a summer lightning storm lasted 10 hours and started 12 fires.

“There are two types of people when that happens: those who isolate away from the lightning, and those who stay and watch. I’m the latter: my energy matches the storm.”

At age 22, Sapora began his college career, earning his dream degrees in botany and geology by attending Lane Community College and Portland State University. In between school years, he continued spending his summer months fire watching, and eventually worked as a Park Ranger in the Redwood National Forest leading educational nature hikes.

Upon his college graduation, Sapora went to work for the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, and then the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

“I worked with seabird data collection: a program that’s been happening since the 1960s,” Sapora said. “Seabirds’ overall health determines the overall health of our ocean ecosystem.”

After some time working up north, Sapora’s next adventure would take him to the southern hemisphere: Indonesia and Thailand.

“I learned to scuba dive, became a divemaster, and helped opened a tour company with a few friends,” he said.

Through their company, Good Time Adventures, Sapora and his business partners would take people on diving tours to the less “popular” spots on the reefs.

“The wildlife isn’t afraid of you if you’re calm. They’ll come right up to you,” Sapora said of the awe of scuba diving.

A few years into the business, Sapora felt the need to “grow up and get a career,” so he headed back to the states.

He landed a job with 16 other biologists who were hired to evaluate the aftermath of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

“Our larger organization was in charge of the entire coastline from Florida to Texas, collecting data about the state of the shorebirds,” he said. “My crew of 16 managed the data collection for the state of Louisiana. We would count how many of each species, if there was oil on them or not, and what time they were there.”

The data they collected was needed in order to quantify damages in a federal government lawsuit against BP.

“We had to make our notes on special paper, seal them in envelopes, and send them off,” Sapora recalled. “I was a supervisor for the data’s chain of custody.”

In addition to seeing the devastation to the wildlife, Sapora said he witnessed firsthand the effects on the gulf’s local economy.

“We would hire local boat captains to take us to the local islands because they couldn’t fish anymore,” he said. “They had lost their livelihoods. All these boaters and fishermen, they couldn’t wait on the lawsuit money.”

After some time “doing the most work, constantly, that I had ever done,” it was time to come back home to Oregon.

Sapora received his teaching degree from Southern Oregon University with an endorsement in biology. He was hired onto the science department at Tillamook high School in the fall of 2012.

“I wanted to be on the coast,” Sapora said. “It was like coming home and putting down roots.”

In his 11 years of teaching, Sapora has tried to make his classroom an environment that he felt he needed as a student.

"I try to make my work interactive, make connections, and make them meaningful,” he said. “The things we do in science are super fascinating and you can use them for the rest of your life.”

Sapora said he’s appreciative of the support he receives to take his students, especially marine biology students, outside and into the environments they are learning about.

“If I’m in need of resources, the community here helps us out,” Sapora said.

His intentional education methods have earned him respect from students, and community members, being voted first place educator in the Tillamook Headlight Herald’s 2023 Readers’ Choice .

“The kids in the community are, across the board, neat kids. They are kind and hard-working,” he said. “My coworkers are really great people: quality educators who are professional. This is a great place to work.”

When not in his classroom, or grading papers, Sapora enjoys spending time traveling with his family.

Or playing disc golf.

“I am currently leading the development of a new, tournament-quality disc golf course near the Air Museum in cooperation with the Port of Tillamook,” he said.

He loves to play; so challenge him to a game.

Skyhawk returns to the hangar

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 17:00:00 GMT

For 25 years, an A-4B Skyhawk Navy Jet was a wayfinder sign for the Tillamook Air Museum.

Displayed alongside Highway 101, and popularly referred to by locals as “plane on a stick,” it pointed the way to the WWII blimp hangar.

The Tillamook Air Museum’s A-4 Skyhawk was accepted by the United States Navy on Oct. 21, 1958 where it served with several Navy squadrons through the years. On May 16, 1964, the A-4, then stationed at Naval Air Station Los Alamitos in California, was involved in a mid-air collision with another aircraft. Being retired, the A-4 went on display at the U.S.S. Intrepid Museum in New York City before being loaned to the Tillamook Air Museum in December 1997.

In August 1998, the A-4 was set atop a stanchion adjacent to Highway 101 as a "gate guard."

However, the jet, was not intended to be displayed outside.

“The Navy said they needed to have a scope of work for maintaining it or really just take it down,” Tillamook Air Museum Director Rita Welch said. “The conversation began about how it was going to be painted, taken down, or what would it look like to replace it. But, everybody wanted a monument left.”

Through a partnership with Tillamook Bay Community College’s welding program, a student-built metal blimp structure replaced the A-4 in September 2022.

After the A-4 was removed from its stand near the highway, it was brought back to the Tillamook Air Museum.

“The Navy does not want to take it back; they just want us to properly display it,” Welch said.

A scope of restoration work received approval from the Navy including: sandblasting, dent repair, and repainting; with addition plans to create a static display inside the Tillamook Air Museum.

Welch detailed that several local businesses contributed restoration efforts to the A-4. Blue Coast Eco-Blasting managed to remove nearly seven layers of paint. William Wallace Welding built and installed the display stand, and Burden's Towing assisted with their crane through the process of welding the frame to the A-4.

All in all, Welch reported roughly 202 hours from staff and volunteers were dedicated to restoring the A-4.

“The aircraft turned out great,” Welch said. “Everyone was really pleased around here with it, considering how rough it was—there were times of uncertainty.”

With the restoration complete, the A-4 will remain on display inside the Tillamook Air Museum.

Locals can visit the A-4 during free admission days every third Sunday of the month.

“Tillamook County residents can come check out the bird up close along with all our other exhibits,” Welch said. “I'm hoping this will gain traction in the community and we'll start seeing more local on a regular basis.”

Individuals just need to provide their ID or Tillamook County library card as proof of residency and then the entry fee will be waived.

The Tillamook Air Museum is located at 6030 Hangar Rd. Tillamook.