JC NEWS by Matt Jarvis

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Sunrise/Sunset, Coos Bay, OR
Coos Bay, OR, Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2025 – Sunrise: 7:47 a.m., and Sunset: 4:45 p.m., offering eight-hours and 58-minutes of daylight.

Tides Coos Bay, OR Estuary
Tides for the Coos Bay, OR Estuary, Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2025 – High tide: 4:09 a.m., 6.31 ft.; Low tide: 9:04 a.m., 3.46 ft. High tide: 2:47 p.m., 7.48 ft.; Low tide: 9:51 p.m., -0.22 ft.

More Quakes
Another earthquake off the South Oregon Coast near the outer fault line of the two that run parallel with the Oregon Coast, Monday, Dec. 22. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the quake was located west of Bandon, at a depth of six-miles. A second earthquake, 3.6-magnitude, was recorded between the two fault lines, west of Pistol River in Curry Co.

CBPL Event
Coos Bay Public Library, 525 Anderson Ave., Coos Bay, OR - DIY Deer Making, Thursday, December 23 in the Myrtlewood Room, 10:30am – 11:00am. Put the finishing touches on everyone's favorite Coos Bay animal, the deer. All supplies included; bring your hammer if you have one. Pre-registration required; registration will open on 11/17. We will be using wood glue and hammer to put deer together. Parents or caregivers should help crafters under the age of 10.

NBPL Event
North Bend Public Library, 1800 Sherman Ave., North Bend, OR - Preschool Storytime (Ages 2-5), Tuesday, December 23 at 10:30 AM. Enjoy stories, activities, & a craft.

Rethink the Drink – and your ride – this holiday season
OHA release - As people in Oregon prepare to celebrate the holiday season, state agencies renew their call to “Rethink the Drink.” Oregon Health Authority, Oregon Alcohol & Drug Policy Commission, Oregon Liquor & Cannabis Commission and Oregon Department of Transportation are encouraging people to pause, reflect and make mindful and healthy choices when it comes to their alcohol consumption. Holiday events and binge drinking sometimes go hand in hand. That can contribute to unsafe driving and other dangerous behavior. Binge drinking impairs judgment, slows reaction times and increases the likelihood of making fatal decisions. That’s why agencies are encouraging people in Oregon to make a transportation plan before they drink or use any impairing substance. Planning ahead protects you, your loved ones, and everyone else on the road.

Oregon sees a record number of whooping cough cases
OHA release - Pertussis cases in Oregon have reached an all-time high with 1,475 reported cases as of Dec 10. Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, can cause severe disease in people of all ages. Babies are most at risk of serious illness, hospitalization and death from infection. The?American Academy of Pediatrics?recommends every pregnant person receive a single dose of Tdap vaccine during their third trimester (weeks 27-36) to protect their newborn from pertussis. That's because babies' immune systems are too weak to protect against infection until they get vaccinated at 2 months old. The best way to protect yourself and others is by getting vaccinated. In addition to pregnant people, pertussis vaccination is recommended for infants and children starting at?2 months through 4 to 6 years old, youth at age 11 or 12, and any adult who has not previously been vaccinated.

Southwestern's Dual Credit program receives state approval, advancing access to higher education
SWOCC release - Coos Bay, OR – Southwestern Oregon Community College (SWOCC) is proud to announce the successful approval of its Dual Credit programming by the Oversight Committee for High School Based College Credit Partnerships. This approval, granted on October 20, 2025, follows a comprehensive self-study and peer review process and is valid through 2032. The committee’s decision affirms the strength, quality, and impact of SWOCC’s partnerships with regional high schools, as well as the college’s commitment to expanding access to higher education for students across its service area. Special recognition is extended to Forrest Akers for his leadership and dedication to the success of the Dual Credit program. “Forrest Akers’ exceptional leadership in our Dual Credit program is deeply valued by the College. His work strengthens SWOCC’s role as a statewide model and positively impacts our students and community,” said Rachele Lyon, Vice President of Administrative Services at Southwestern. Peer reviewers highlighted SWOCC’s exceptional practices and student-centered approach, noting that: “The college demonstrates exceptional practices that support students and foster a sense of belonging within the educational community.” “SWOCC provides clear and comprehensive evidence of its efforts and excels at keeping high school faculty well-informed and actively engaged.” As part of the review, SWOCC received a perfect score of 5, the highest possible rating, on 12 of the 28 evaluated standards. Fifteen additional standards were scored between 4 and 5, with only one standard receiving a score below 4. Overall, SWOCC achieved one of the highest ratings in the state, reflecting a strong alignment with best practices and a clear focus on student access and success. “This approval affirms the academic quality and integrity of SWOCC’s Dual Credit program,” said Ali Mageehon, Vice President of Instruction and Student Services at Southwestern. “By closely aligning high school instruction with college-level curriculum and supporting teachers through faculty mentorship, we ensure students receive a rigorous, meaningful experience that prepares them for continued success in higher education.” SWOCC’s Dual Credit Program plays a critical role in removing barriers to higher education by offering college-level courses directly within local high schools. These courses are taught by high school teachers who are mentored and supported by SWOCC faculty, ensuring academic quality while maintaining a familiar and supportive learning environment for students. Unlike many dual credit programs statewide, SWOCC does not charge school districts or students for participation. This no-cost model significantly expands access to college coursework, allowing students to earn transferable college credits without incurring tuition expenses. Courses offered include Writing, English Literature, Mathematics, History, General Biology, Allied Health, and more. Through this program, students can complete general education requirements at no cost and carry their earned credits forward – whether they continue at SWOCC or transfer to a four-year university. By reducing financial barriers, supporting instructional quality, and fostering early college success, SWOCC’s Dual Credit Program directly addresses access to education and creates meaningful pathways to postsecondary achievement. “Dual credit classes allow students to earn real college credit while still in high school, all in a supportive and familiar setting,” said Forrest Akers. “Because SWOCC does not charge students for these courses, we are helping them save money, build confidence, and take a strong first step toward their college and career goals.” SWOCC remains committed to strengthening educational access, equity, and opportunity for students throughout the region and is proud of the continued success of its Dual Credit partnerships. For more information about Southwestern’s Dual Credit program, call 541-888-7185, email [email protected], or visit www.socc.edu/get-started/admissions/high-school-partnerships.

Wandering Pinniped along Central Coast
He got lost and then rescued. A stellar sea lion pup was rescued this past weekend as it waddled its way along busy Hwy. 101 at Newport. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office was the first to respond, but they realized right away that assistance would be necessary from officials at the Oregon Coast Aquarium. The decision was made to keep the pinniped safe and move it to a better location. What could be better for a lost seal than Seal Rock? The Elephant Rock area and its many offshore rocks are home to stellar sea lions. After treating the pup, Aquarium officials relocated it to one of the nearby islands. They speculate it got lost from its mother during the recent storms to hit the Oregon Coast.

Potential High Winds & Mountain Snow Prompt OEM to Urge Caution during Holiday Travel & Power Outages
OEM release - December 22, 2025 — Salem, Ore. As Oregonians prepare for one of the busiest travel periods of the year, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is urging residents and visitors to take extra precautions. A series of weather systems will bring rain, mountain snow, and increasingly strong winds through Wednesday, creating potentially hazardous travel conditions across the state and may bring additional power outages. According to the National Weather Service, waves of snow showers, gusty coastal winds, and a potential for strong inland winds may impact travel—particularly over mountain passes, on the coast and along the I?5 corridor. Weather Hazards to Expect: Mountain Snow and Pass Travel - Snow showers will continue through Tuesday, with snow levels between 2,500 and 4,000 feet. Travelers crossing the Cascades should expect slick roads, reduced visibility. Strong Winds: Breezy to gusty winds were forecast to return to the coast Coast Range Monday, with a 45–70% chance of gusts exceeding 45 mph. A stronger wind event is possible Wednesday, with a 25–50% chance of major wind impacts, including:45–58 mph gusts inland, 55–70 mph gusts along beaches and headlands. The I?5 corridor may experience up to six hours of peak gusts, though exact timing remains uncertain. Coastal Thunderstorms: A 10–25% chance of thunderstorms exists along the coast today, bringing the potential for locally heavy rain, small hail, gusty winds, and occasional lightning. River Conditions: Minor flooding will persist along the Pudding River at Aurora through Monday, though levels are trending downward. Latest river forecasts: https://water.noaa.gov/ Safety Concerns Beyond the Weather: Fallen Trees and Power Outages - Recent heavy rainfall has left soils saturated across western Oregon. Combined with strong winds, this increases the likelihood of downed trees and power lines. Travelers should be prepared for: Sudden road blockages; Localized outages; Delays on major routes; Tree limbs can break without warning, especially in high winds or under the weight of snow and ice, so be extra cautious when walking outdoors. Hazardous Water Conditions: OEM strongly advises the public to stay out of rivers, streams, and coastal waters. As runoff from last week’s atmospheric river continues moving through the system: Waterways contain high levels of debris, including branches and logs; There is potential for sewage contamination; Fast?moving, cold water increases the risk of injury or drowning; Travel Preparedness Guidance; Check Conditions Before You Go. Expect delays and allow extra travel time. Rushed drivers are unsafe drivers. Fill up your gas tank. Be prepared for taking longer detours or remaining idle for an extended periods of time due to traffic jams by having plenty of gas in your tank. Visit TripCheck.com or call 511 for real?time road conditions, chain requirements, and incident updates. Make sure you have Wireless Emergency Alerts activated on your phone and are Signed up for emergency alerts for the area in Oregon you are visiting by going to ORAlert.gov and typing in your destination’s zip code. If you are visiting another state, search for that state’s Department of Emergency Management and look for their instructions on how to receive alerts. If you end up stuck in snow, keep your car running as much as possible to stay warm, but keep the area around your exhaust pipe clear. Give Snowplows Space: Never pass a snowplow. Maintain a safe following distance—plows often create clouds of snow that reduce visibility. Crews need room to operate safely; your patience helps keep everyone on the road safer. For more safe winter driving tips visit the Oregon Department of Transportation’s Winter Driving Safety webpage, or read this article on Getting Ready for Winter Driving. Pack an Emergency Car Kit - OEM recommends every vehicle carry: Warm clothing and blankets; Water and non?perishable food; Flashlight and extra batteries; Chains and traction devices; Ice scraper and shovel; First?aid supplies; Phone charger and backup power; Sand or kitty litter for traction; Back up phone charger and hand cracked weather radio. If You Encounter Downed Trees or Power Lines: Never touch or move downed lines; Report hazards to local authorities; Treat all lines as energized. Looking Ahead: Forecast confidence suggests a calmer, drier pattern returning by Saturday, December 27. However, OEM encourages the public to remain vigilant and stay informed as conditions evolve.

Hwy. 97 Fatal, Klamath Co.
KLAMATH COUNTY, Ore. (22 Dec. 2025) – On Sunday, December 21, 2025, at 9:55 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 97 near milepost 181 in Klamath County. The preliminary investigation indicated that a gold Chevrolet Silverado, operated by Cindy Rose Pearce (59) of Bend, was traveling southbound on Hwy. 97 when it crossed into the northbound lane after the operator lost control due to icy roadway conditions. The Silverado collided head-on with a northbound black Toyota Tacoma, operated by Kristara Leah Lopez (47) of Coos Bay, and then struck a blue Dodge Ram towing a small trailer, operated by Carl Michael Kelley (68) of Oakridge. The operator of the Toyota Tacoma (Lopez) was pronounced deceased at the scene. The Toyota’s passenger, Gilberto Paez Lopez (59) of Coos Bay, was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries. The operator of the Chevrolet Silverado (Pearce) was transported to an area hospital with minor injuries. The operator of the Dodge Ram (Kelley) and passenger, Terri Louise Kelley (59) of Oakridge, were transported to an area hospital with minor injuries. The highway was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation. OSP was assisted by the Crescent Fire District and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

I-5 Fatal, Josephine Co.
JOSEPHINE COUNTY, Ore. (22 Dec. 2025) – On Friday, December 19, 2025, at 11:45 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash on Interstate 5 near milepost 70 in Josephine County. The preliminary investigation indicated a red GMC Jimmy, operated by Jimmy Warren Stanley (82) of Dunsmuir (CA), was traveling northbound on I-5 when it veered off the roadway for an unknown reason onto the gravel shoulder. The vehicle rolled over, and the operator was ejected from the vehicle. The operator (Stanley) was pronounced deceased at the scene. The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation. OSP was assisted by Rural Metro Fire, American Medical Response (AMR) ambulance service, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

New Reserve Officers, NBPD
City of North Bend release - NORTH BEND, Oregon — The North Bend Police Department has sworn in two new reserve officers—Dan Turk and Brandon Wright—expanding a volunteer program that police leaders say is essential to public safety in rural communities. Police Chief Cal Mitts administered the oath of office during a swearing-in ceremony this week, marking the official start of service for the department’s newest reserve officers. “Congratulations to our two newest Reserve Officers,” Chief Mitts said. “We’re proud to welcome Reserve Officer Dan Turk and Reserve Officer Brandon Wright, who were officially sworn in this morning. Becoming a Reserve Officer takes dedication, commitment, and a genuine desire to give back, and these two are stepping forward to support public safety and represent our department with professionalism and integrity.” Unlike full-time sworn staff, NBPD’s reserve officers are 100% volunteers. In communities such as North Bend—where staffing resources can be limited and call volumes can fluctuate—reserve programs provide trained, uniformed support that helps departments maintain visibility, responsiveness and community presence without adding full-time personnel costs. Chief Mitts said reserve officers help fill critical coverage gaps and allow full-time officers to focus on priority calls and proactive enforcement. “In rural communities, reserve officers are a key part of maintaining reliable service levels,” Chief Mitts said. “They support patrol operations, community events and special details, and they provide an important layer of flexibility when we need extra staffing.” Training and field experience: The reserve officers will begin training and field experience under the supervision of the department. NBPD said they will receive mentorship, develop practical skills and learn department procedures as they work alongside experienced officers. “As they begin their training and field experience, they’ll gain hands-on skills, mentorship and valuable insight into law enforcement,” Chief Mitts said. “They’ll be making a real difference in our community while building experience and leadership along the way.” Reserve officers typically assist with patrol support, traffic and safety details, special events, and other duties where additional personnel improve safety and efficiency. In many rural and coastal jurisdictions, reserve programs also strengthen regional readiness by expanding staffing capacity during storms, large events, searches, and other incidents that can strain a small department’s on-duty resources. Multiple paths of service: NBPD said some reserve officers eventually pursue full-time law enforcement careers, while others serve as long-term volunteers committed to supporting their community. “We value and support both paths,” Chief Mitts said. “What matters most is the commitment to service and the willingness to step up when the community needs help.” The department is continuing to recruit reserve officers and encourages those interested in public service to apply through the City of North Bend’s website. APPLY: https://www.northbendoregon.gov/21065/police

Traffic Accidents, Coos Co.
ODOT alerts: ODOT: SW Oregon: Monday, Dec. 22, 5:10 p.m., U.S. 101 is open 2 miles south of Lakeside at milepost 224 following a crash. Please slow down and watch out for emergency responders who may still be working in the area. ODOT: SW Oregon: OR 42, 9:02 p.m., Monday, Dec. 22, eastbound is open in Myrtle Point at milepost 20 following a crash.

Burglary
According to an entry on the MPPD log for Dec. 21, 3:32 p.m., 100 block Ash St., “burglary.”

Illegal Camping, CQ
According to an entry on the CQPD log for Dec. 21, 11:31 p.m., E. 1st St., “illegal camping.”

Illegal Camping, NB
According to an entry on the NBPD log for Dec. 21, 8 a.m., 835 California Ave., “illegal camping,” 46-year old Tyre Hall and 40-year old Amanda Haggbloom, “Ticket.”

Burglary
According to an entry on the NBPD log for Dec. 21, 8:27 a.m., 400 block O’Connell St., “burglary.”

UEMV
According to an entry on the NBPD log for Dec. 21, 3:24 p.m., 2600 block Montana Ave., “unlawful entry into MV.”

Counterfeit Money
According to an entry on the NBPD log for Dec. 21, 4:38 p.m., 3500 block Tremont Ave., 76 Station, “counterfeit money.”

Criminal Trespass
According to an entry on the NBPD log for Dec. 21, 5:18 p.m., 1900 block Union Ave., Hope Christian Church, “trespass/illegal camping.”

Illegal Camping, NB
According to an entry on the NBPD log for Dec. 21, 10:13 p.m., 3400 block Liberty St., Skyline Baptist Church, “illegal camping.” At 10:41 p.m., 400 block Virginia Ave., Amerigas, “illegal camping.”

UEMV
According to an entry on the CBPD log for Dec. 21, 1:09 p.m., 1700 block Milligan Ave., “unlawful entry into MV.”

Illegal Camping, CB
According to an entry on the CBPD log for Dec. 21, 3:09 p.m., 187 So. 2nd St., Rife’s Home Furnishing, “illegal camping,” 68-year old David Fitzhenry “Ticket.”

Warrant
According to an entry on the CBPD log for Dec. 21, 6:56 p.m., 2223 So. Kaen Rd., Clackamas County SO, “Clackamas County SO served CQPD warrant” on 41-year old Jennifer Marie Smith charged with Probation Violation on Assault Public Safety Officer, Resisting Arrest.

Warrant
According to an entry on the CBPD log for Dec. 21, 9:34 p.m., 2051 Newmark Ave., Walmart, 37-year old Marvin William Rowe arrested on Douglas County warrant charging FTA on Criminal Trespass II, “transported to CCJ.”

Warrant
According to an entry on the CBPD log for Dec. 22, 12:07 a.m., 1100 block Newmark, “warrant service,” on 54-year old Damon Maurice Glick charging PCS Fentanyl, PCS Meth, Criminal Trespass I, “cited and released lieu of custody.”

WX
A Gale Watch along the South Oregon Coast. Cloudy with occasional rain during the afternoon for the South Oregon Coast today. Highs near 50 and winds light and variable. Rain likely tonight with lows in the mid 40s and winds out of the East to Northeast at 5-10 mph. Rain showers on Wednesday, early, then overcast skies later in the day with highs in the mid to low 50s and winds out of the South to Southeast at 10-20 mph.

Sports

BXB Tourney Recap
The Les Schwab Tires South Coast Holiday Basketball Tournament wrapped up Saturday in Coos Bay. Sixteen-teams participated in the 22nd annual event, but only two could claim to be schools that have participated every year, and they met for the boy’s championship. Crook County, from Prineville, and the home team, Marshfield. The top-ranked (OSAA Rankings), unbeaten (7-0), 5A Cowboys won the game 78-46 over the top-ranked (OSAA/Coach’s Poll) 4A Pirates (4-2). Marshfield’s two losses have come at the hands of 5A schools, Churchill and Crook Co. The Cowboys are led by 6-10 senior Bryce Lowenbach. He was easily the MVP in leading Crook Co. to their first-ever championship of the tournament the school has been attending for over two-decades. It’s got to be personally special. Lowenbach’s father, Jeff, has been on the bench over those years, and you can easily say his son has grown up in Marshfield’s Pirate Palace as the Cowboys played every December in Coos Bay. From being a ball boy to MVP. It had to be personally gratifying to father and son. What’s ahead for the senior next year? Still open. While he has heard from colleges, his decision will come after the Crook Co. season. The school plays in the 5A Intermountain Conference and is among the smallest enrollments compared to Bend’s four schools and the two in Redmond. They’ve been a yo-yo school between the 4A and 5A OSAA classifications, and the Cowboy coaches know it. It’s a fire burning inside that makes them want to prove themselves. The Cowboys got it! Their plan is to win the league and show they can stand tall with the bigger schools. They’re off to a good start with dad’s former ball boy leading the way.

Prep BBX Scores
Boy’s prep basketball scores from Monday, Dec. 22: 5A – Marshfield won at South Albany, 63-57. 4A – North Bend fell at Estacada, 85-47. Tillamook lost at Valley Catholic, 85-35. 3A – Warrenton won at Horizon Christian, Tualatin, 40-37. Westside Christian won at Taft, 82-41. 2A – Waldport lost at Clatskanie, 54-19.

Prep BBX Schedules
Prep boys’ basketball schedules for Tuesday, Dec. 23: 4A – Pendleton at Marist Catholic, 3:30p. Philomath at Junction City, 7p. 2A – Country Christian at Knappa, 5p. Riddle at Myrtle Pt. 7p.

Prep GBX Scores
Prep girls’ basketball scores from Monday, Dec. 22: 4A – North Bend won at Estacada, 48-30. Marshfield fell at Myrtle Point, 36-23. 3A – Taft beat visiting Westside Christian, 57-44. Warrenton over Horizon Christian, Tualatin, 45-13. 2A – Waldport lost at Clatskanie, 62-33.

Prep GBX Schedules
Prep girls’ basketball schedules for Tuesday, Dec. 23: 4A – Pendleton at Marist Catholic, 2p. Philomath at Junction City, 5:30p. 2A – Country Christian at Knappa, 3:30p. Riddle at Myrtle Pt. (JV), 5:30p.

Prep GBX Polls
North Bend (6-1) is No. 7 in this week’s OSAA/Coaches 4A Girl’s Prep Basketball Poll. Stayton (6-0) is No. 1, followed by Philomath, 4-2), Baker (6-2), Cascade (3-2) and Seaside (5-3) No. 5. Marist Catholic (4-2) is No. 8 and Cottage Grove (6-2) is No. 9. The OSAA/OnPoint Community Credit Union 3A Girls State Basketball Tournament returns to the Bay Area March 5-9. Amity (5-0) is currently on top of the 3A Poll, followed by Vale (5-1), Banks (4-2), Creswell (5-2), Valley Catholic (4-1), Pleasant Hill (7-3), Westside Christian (5-1), Sutherlin (5-3), Harrisburg (7-2) and Sisters (8-1) at No. 10. The 2A Poll is led by Regis (4-0). Bandon (7-1) is No. 3, Nestucca (7-0) No. 5 and Waldport (5-1) was among those “receiving significant votes.” North Clackamas Christian (6-0) is No. 1 in the 1A Poll.