JC NEWS by Matt Jarvis

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Sunrise/Sunset, Coos Bay, OR
Coos Bay, OR, Thursday, July 16, 2026 – Sunrise: 5:51 a.m., and Sunset: 8:54 p.m., offering 15-hours & three-minutes of daylight.

Tides, Coos Bay, OR Estuary
Tides for the Coos Bay, OR Estuary, Thursday, July 16, 2026 – High tide: 2:59 a.m., 8.09 ft.; Low tide: 9:50 a.m., -1.77 ft.; High tide: 4:29 p.m., 6.69 ft.; Low tide: 9:56 p.m., 1.65 ft.

Lane Shift Notice Coos Bay, Ocean Blvd.
City of Coos Bay release - Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua & Siuslaw Indians will be conducting site improvements at 1275 Ocean Blvd NW. Work is planned to begin on July 16th and continue through July 17th. During construction, the traffic lanes on Ocean Blvd will be shifted passing along the work zone in accordance with the approved traffic control plan. Two-way traffic will be maintained, but motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians should expect shifted travel lanes, traffic control signs, cones, and workers near the roadway. Motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians are encouraged to use caution near the construction area and follow all posted traffic signage. Should you have any questions or want more information, please contact Public Works at (541) 269-8918.

CBPL Event
Coos Bay Public Library, 525 Anderson Ave., Coos Bay, OR - Unlimited Book Club, Thursday, July 16 on Zoom, 6:00pm – 7:00pm, CELEBRATING DIVERSITY, INCLUSION, AND UNDERSTANDING IN COOS COUNTY VIA LITERATURE! The Unlimited Book Club is a joint venture of the Coos Bay Public Library and the North Bend Public Library, formed to encourage awareness and foster community discussions on equity, diversity, and inclusion through reading and thoughtful conversation. We meet every third Thursday of the month. This meeting will be an opportunity for members to meet and discuss our next title, selected by members, Freshwater by Akwaeke Emezi. Suggestions for future readings will come from book club members. Those interested are invited to attend, there is no obligation to stay. After signing up, participants will be sent link for Zoom meeting. Register for this free virtual event @ https://bit.ly/3R6E57M. Future Books: July 16, 2026: Freshwater by Akwaeke Emezi; August 20, 2026: The Color of Water: A Black Man's Tribute to His White Mother by James McBride; September 17, 2026: $2.00 a Day: Living on Almost Nothing in America by Kathryn Edin and H. Luke Shaefer; October 15, 2026: In the time of the butterflies by Julia Alvarez; November 19, 2026: Custodians of Wonder: Ancient Customs, Profound Traditions, and the Last People Keeping Them Alive by Eliot Stein. Register. Age Bracket: Teens & Adults.

NBPL Events
North Bend Public Library, 1800 Sherman Ave., North Bend, OR - Lapsit Storytime (Babies), Thursdays in July at 10:30 AM Enjoy stories, songs, & gentle play designed to support the early literacy skills of babies who are not yet walking. Unlimited Book Club (Meeting virtually), Thursday, July 16 at 6:00 PM. Discuss Freshwater by Akwaeke Emezi at a DEI virtual book club hosted by NBPL & CBPL the third Thursday of every month. Go to https://bit.ly/3R6E57M to attend.

Bee Amazed! at the North Bend Public Library
NBPL release - On Thursday, July 16 at 4:00 PM, families are invited to discover the fascinating world of Oregon bees at North Bend Public Library. Presented in partnership with the Museum of Natural and Cultural History, this interactive program will feature a MNCH science ambassador leading children and families through the incredible diversity of bees found in Oregon. While honeybees may be the most familiar, Oregon is home to more than 500 species of bees, including mason bees, cuckoo bees, mining bees, and longhorn bees. Participants will learn how bees help support ecosystems and food production while exploring the unique behaviors and characteristics that make these mighty mini-beasts so important. The program will include hands-on science activities and engaging demonstrations designed to spark curiosity about the natural world. Event Details: What: Bee Amazed! with MNCH; When: Thursday, July 16 at 4:00 PM; Who: Children ages 3-12; Where: North Bend Public Library; Cost: Free; Presenter: MNCH science ambassador.

The Visitor & Convention Bureau’s Public Notice
VCB release - ****PUBLIC NOTICE**** Public Notice is Hereby Given for the following: WHAT: Regular Monthly Meeting of the Coos Bay-North Bend-Charleston Visitor & Convention Bureau (VCB) Board of Directors; WHEN: Thursday, July 16, 2026 at 8:30am; WHERE: Ko-Kwel Casino Resort | Coos Bay, 3201 Tremont Avenue, North Bend - 2nd floor meeting rooms; PURPOSE: To conduct regular business of the VCB as detailed in the attached agenda. ATTEND IN PERSON: Those who wish to attend in person MUST RSVP to Janice Langlinais ([email protected]) no later than Wednesday, July 15th, to ensure adequate seating within the meeting room. ATTEND VIA ZOOM: Those who wish to attend via Zoom are welcome to do so by clicking the link in the attached agenda or requesting the link from Janice Langlinais ([email protected]) no later than Wednesday, July 15th. BOARD PACKETS: To access the packet of information to be discussed at this meeting, follow this link. Board packets will be posted in advance of the meeting, but no later than Tuesday, July 14th.

Coos Bay Parks Commission
The City of Coos Bay Parks Commission will meet on Thursday, July 16, 2026 – 4:00 PM, Council Chambers - 500 Central Avenue, Coos Bay, Oregon. Zoom Remote Attendance Link & YouTube Link Agenda: 1. Roll Call; 2. Public Comment; 3. Action Items: a. Marshfield Pioneer Cemetery Update; b. Parks and Grants Updates; c. Port of Coos Bay "South Coast Rail Trail Project" discussion. 4. Staff/Commissioner Closing Comments; 5. Adjourn.

Oregon Coast Food & Wine Celebration at SWOCC
SWOCC release - This is a friendly reminder about the inaugural Oregon Coast Food & Wine Celebration, taking place Saturday, July 18, from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. in Umpqua Hall on SWOCC's Coos Campus (1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay). We've had a fantastic response to the event so far and would appreciate your help in sharing it with the community as the date approaches. I've attached an event poster, and a quick overview is below. The full event description is available here: https://www.socc.edu/oregon-coast-culinary-institute-to-host-the-oregon-coast-food-wine-celebration-july-18-2026/ EVENT DETAILS: Date/Time: Saturday, July 18, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.; Location: Umpqua Hall, SWOCC Coos Campus (1988 Newmark Ave., Coos Bay); Tickets: $35 in advance | $40 at the door | Includes 3 wine tasting tokens and 2 food tasting tokens; Purchase tickets: https://oregon-coast-culinary-institute.square.site/; Ages: 21+ only; Service animals only. Participating Wineries: Abacela, Eola Hills, J Scott, Melrose, Richwine, Whitetail Ridge. Thank you for helping us spread the word. For more information or to inquire about participating as a vendor please contact Lena Chester at 541-888-7309 or [email protected].

City of North Bend July Jubilee
North Bend invites community members and visitors to celebrate the 2026 July Jubilee, featuring three days of family fun, community traditions, and hometown celebration. One of North Bend’s most anticipated traditions is almost here. The annual July Jubilee returns July 17–19, 2026, inviting residents and visitors to celebrate North Bend’s 123rd birthday with three days of entertainment, community spirit, and activities for all ages. Hosted throughout North Bend, the July Jubilee offers a full weekend of opportunities to gather with friends, support local businesses, enjoy hometown traditions, and experience the charm of the Southern Oregon Coast. Most activities are free to attend, making the celebration an affordable and memorable experience for families and visitors alike. This year’s festivities include the Kick-Off Celebration and Honored Citizen Awards, Sip N’ Stroll, the Little Ole Opry on the Bay, a classic car show, the July Jubilee Jaunt 5K Run/Walk, disc golf, family activities at Pony Village Mall, a community softball fundraiser, and a historic walking tour. “July Jubilee is about celebrating our community,” said organizers. “It is a weekend filled with hometown traditions, opportunities to connect with neighbors, and a chance to welcome visitors to experience everything that makes North Bend special.” Friday, July 17 - 4:00–5:00 p.m. | Kick-Off Celebration & Honored Citizen Awards; Cake cutting and community awards ceremony at the North Bend Public Library. 5:00–7:00 p.m. | Sip N’ Stroll; Sponsored by Ziply Fiber. This 21-and-over event begins at the North Bend Visitor Information Center. 7:00–9:00 p.m. | Little Ole Opry on the Bay. Enjoy a country Opry performance at the Liberty Theatre. Tickets are required. 7:00–9:00 p.m. | After Stroll. Sponsored by Midwest Coast Flooring and featuring Gran Torino at Back Alley Pub & Grill. Saturday, July 18 - 8:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. | Show ‘n Shine: Mustang & Ford Club Car Show, Classic car show at North Bend Lanes. 8:00–10:00 a.m. | July Jubilee Jaunt 5K Run/Walk. Sponsored by Juul Insurance. The route begins at the Boardwalk and finishes at Grant Circle. 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. | Jump Into Jubilee! Family activities at Pony Village Mall, including bounce houses, vendors, face painting, a balloon drop, and more. 10:30 a.m. | Disc Golf Tournament. Tournament begins at the Winsor & Ferry Park Course. 6:00 p.m. | Softball Game Fundraiser. North Bend versus Coos Bay at Clyde Allen Field. 7:00–9:00 p.m. | Little Ole Opry on the Bay. Country Opry performance at the Liberty Theatre. Tickets are required. Sunday, July 19 - 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. | Historic Walking Tour. Tour begins at the North Bend Visitor Information Center and highlights stories, places, and people that helped shape the community. Learn about the Merci Box can and enjoy fire truck rides at Visitor Center from 12:30pm-1:00pm, 2:00–4:00 p.m. | Little Ole Opry on the Bay. Final country Opry performance at the Liberty Theatre. Tickets are required. The July Jubilee is made possible through the collaborative efforts of the City of North Bend, local organizations, businesses, sponsors, community leaders, and an incredible team of volunteers who generously donate countless hours to make this annual tradition a success. For the complete schedule, event links, registration information, and ticket details, visit northbendoregon.gov/julyjubilee. For questions, contact Stephanie Wilson at the North Bend Visitor Information Center at 541-756-4613 or [email protected].

Oregon’s Unemployment Rate Remains at 5.2% in June
Oregon Employment Dept. release - Oregon’s unemployment rate was 5.2% in June. That was unchanged from 5.2% in May, and also matched the 5.2% rate one year ago. The U.S. unemployment rate was 4.2% in June, which changed little from the prior month (4.3%) or one year ago (4.1%). On a seasonally adjusted basis, Oregon employers cut 600 jobs from nonfarm payrolls in June. That follows a revised gain of 2,500 jobs in May. June’s gains were largest in private health care and social assistance (+2,000 jobs). Losses were largest in manufacturing (-1,700 jobs). Total nonfarm payroll employment declined by 8,500 jobs between June 2025 and June 2026. That’s a loss of 0.4%. Both the private and public sectors lost jobs over the past year. Private sector employment fell by 5,400 jobs (-0.3%), and government employment declined by 3,100 jobs (-1.0%). Private health care and social assistance continues to lead job growth in Oregon. The sector added 14,000 jobs over the past year, a gain of 4.5%. Over the past year, growth within the sector was strongest in social assistance (8.6%) and nursing and residential care facilities (5.3 %). Ambulatory health care services (2.6 %) and hospitals (0.5%) also added jobs, but at slower rates. Manufacturing employment continues to decline in Oregon. Manufacturers lost 10,000 jobs over the past year, a decline of 5.6%. Within manufacturing, employment in durable goods fell by 5,800 jobs (-4.6%). Nondurable goods manufacturing lost 4,200 jobs (-7.7%).

East Evans Ck. Fire Prompts Level 1 Evacuation Notices in Douglas Co.
DCSO release - A Level 1 - "BE READY" evacuation notice has been issued for the East Evans Creek Fire, burning near the Douglas County Border. The Douglas County Sheriff's Office has issued the Level 1 “BE READY” evacuation notice for Tiller Trail Highway. Milepost 38-41 to the Douglas/Jackson County border and west from Wildcat ridge to the County border on the east (Zones DOU-1012 and DOU-1015). This is inclusive of all addresses between these two points. A Level 1 - "Be Ready" Evacuation notice means residents should be aware of the danger that exists in the area, monitor emergency services websites and local media for information, and begin preparation. This may be the time for precautionary movement of persons with special needs, mobile property, and, under certain circumstances, pets and livestock. Not sure if you are in the evacuation zone? An interactive map can be found on the Douglas County Sheriff's Office website at www.dcso.com/evacuations. All Douglas County residents are encouraged to sign up for emergency notifications through Douglas Alerts at www.dcso.com/alerts. This system is used to notify residents in an emergency, including wildfire evacuations. If you already have an account, please ensure your information is current by conducting a wellness check on your profile. For questions or assistance related to Douglas Alerts, call 541-440-6025 or email [email protected] For information on firefighting efforts go to ODF Southwest Oregon District https://www.facebook.com/ODFSouthwest/

ODF using Tech to Enhance Wildfire Response
ODF release - Salem, Ore. – As technology evolves, so does the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF). ODF continues to adapt and integrate technological advancements into their work. During fire season, the agency uses several different types of tech for early detection, prevention, data collection and to support suppression efforts. Wildfire Detection Cameras: ODF’s wildfire detection cameras play an integral role in the state’s early detection and response on fires. These cameras monitor thousands of acres of land. The camera systems have software designed to notify the operator when smoke is on the landscape, however, the operator can also spot the smoke before the system notifies them. Using an augmented mapping system, the approximate location of the potential fire is sent to dispatchers, who then relay the information in real-time to responding resources. The program now consists of 96 operational camera sites. ODF and fire protection associations continue to work closely with our partners on the Oregon Wildfire Detection Camera Interoperability Committee to enhance relationships across the state and region with organizations that have similar reliance on early fire detection technology to keep fires small, to decrease fire costs and improve the quality of life for all Oregonians. Multi-Mission Aircraft: The Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Multi-Mission Aircraft (MMA) program has proved to be a critical tool in wildfire detection, disaster response, aerial ignitions, resource protection and the ability to deliver supplies. The MMA program has transformed Oregon’s wildfire detection and response capabilities. Since its launch in 2020, the MMA has detected 149 fires, conducted 7 operational support missions, and completed 17 mapping missions. The recent strategic investment in the new Twin Otter aircraft equipped with Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) Sensor, Augmented Reality System, Night Vision Systems and an AI-backed mapping scanner demonstrates a commitment operational effectiveness. The demand for this resource continues to grow year after year, and the agency is proud of its accomplishments and the lessons learned to bring to future missions. Before you burn: The Before You Burn program offers an innovative online platform that simplifies and coordinates burns, improves overall coordination, and provides real-time information to ensure the safety of our communities. Before You Burn provides Oregonians simple, clear guidance on burning regulations and prevention measures for their specific location. The public can sign up for free by visiting the beforeyouburn.net website. Once on the site, or mobile phone application, residents are prompted to enter their address. They will be immediately informed on whether burning is allowed for their location. If burning is allowed, they will receive instructions or options on local regulations that must be followed, like registering a burn or filing for a permit. This system empowers community members with the knowledge they need to comply with local regulations. FireWeb: The Oregon Department of Forestry recently implemented use of a new software platform, called FireWeb, to replace a 20-year-old technology platform (known as FIRES) as the database that collects and reports ODF fire incident data and statistics internally. FireWeb is also used as an enhancement to the GIS features of the detection service and is used as a computer-aided dispatch to make resource deployment more efficient. The FireWeb platform is an improvement from the previous system with web-based, innovative features that now allow ODF to integrate data with federal reporting platforms, and to analyze data in greater detail than ever before. Unmanned Aircraft Systems: ODF’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems Program started in 2017 and has been growing ever since. Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), or drones, help ODF to detect wildfire, as well as conduct operational mapping, and identify hot spots in dangerous terrain. Most importantly, UAS are used to provide situational awareness to our firefighters to keep them safe. The maiden mission of ODF’s UAS Program was on the Eagle Creek Fire in Central Oregon. The agency used a fixed-wing unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to gain real-time intelligence during periods of low visibility due to smoke. This mission gave the agency confidence in the capability and products that UAS can provide. We expect the use of the program to continue growing and be integrated into more aspects of ODF’s work. State of Oregon Fie Situation Analyst (SOFSA) Mapping System via Intterra: SOFSA is the statewide common operating picture of wildfire incidents and response for the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) and the Oregon Department of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM). SOFSA displays real-time fire intelligence from official fire reporting systems including national dispatch systems like ODF's FireWeb. Intterra provides software-as-a-service for fire departments in for the states of California, Montana, and Colorado, as well as several local organizations in Oregon. Oregon's system displays a variety of wildland, structural and rural fire service information for statewide situational awareness. SOFSA also displays key weather, fire environment, and land ownership and reference information for situational assessment and analysis. Key data resources are satellite-based fire detection, lightning, smoke detection camera networks, and data from large fire Incident Action Plans. SOFSA is also the primary viewer for infrared imagery, mapping information, and video from ODF Multi-Mission Aircraft which can be viewed in near-real-time when flight missions are active.

Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee
OR Dept. of Forestry release - SALEM, Ore. — The Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee meets virtually at 3 p.m. on Thursday, July 16. To join, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda. Agenda items will include: Process for final Western Oregon State Forests Management Plan approval; Public comment overview; Plan implementation timeline and process. Public comment is scheduled at the beginning of the meeting. To submit written comment, email [email protected]. Written comments sent at least 48 hours before the meeting will give the FTLAC time to review and consider information. Comments submitted after that window of time will be sent to the FTLAC after the meeting, entered into the record and posted online. Comments are not accepted after the meeting concludes. The Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee is comprised of seven county commissioners representing 15 Oregon counties where state forestlands are located. The FTLAC is a statutorily established committee that advises the Board of Forestry on matters related to forestland managed by ODF. View more information on the FTLAC webpage. Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-945-7200 or by email at [email protected].

Historic Cemeteries Commission
The Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries (OCHC) will meet in Hood River at the Rockford Grange Hall,4262 Barrett Drive in Hood River, and via online meeting on July 16 at 1:00 p.m. The agenda includes presentations on living history in historic cemeteries, cemetery landscape, and the 2025 historic cemeteries grant projects. The meeting is open to the public and the agenda includes an opportunity for public comment. Meeting information is on the agenda or you can follow this link to register for online access information. State law established the seven-member Commission to maintain a listing of all historic cemeteries and gravesites in Oregon; promote public education on the significance of historic cemeteries; and help obtain financial and technical assistance for restoring, improving and maintaining their appearances. For more information about commission activities, contact coordinator Koren Tippett at 503-304-4737 or by e-mail at [email protected]. Special accommodations for the meeting – including translation services – may be made by calling (503) 986?0609 or [email protected] at least 72 hours prior to the start of the meeting. For call-in details and the agenda or more information about the commission, visit www.oregonheritage.org.

Stole Riding Lawn Mower/Tractor from Norway Cemetery
CCSO release - Myrtle Point, OR ~ On July 14th 2026, a tractor and zero-turn lawnmower were reported stolen from the Norway Cemetery just outside of Myrtle Point. Reportedly, the theft took place sometime over the past three weeks from a maintenance building on the property. It was reported that locks were cut, and entry was made to the maintenance building, resulting in a John Deere tractor and a Bad Boy zero-turn mower being taken, valued at over $27,000. On July 15, 2026, Coos County Deputies executed a search warrant at the 5000 block of Cherry Creek Road in Myrtle Point, Oregon, recovered the John Deere tractor valued at about $20,000, and returned it to the Norway Cemetery Association. The red-in-color Bad Boy zero-turn Mower valued at nearly $7,000 is still outstanding, and the investigation is ongoing. If anyone has information about the location of the Bad Boy zero-turn Mower, please reach out to Sgt. Clayburn at the Coos County Sheriff’s Office at [email protected] or 541-396-7843. “Police action is not indicative of guilt. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Criminal Trespass
According to an entry on the CQPD log for July 14, 2:51 p.m., 115 No. Birch St., Coquille Community Building, 30-year old Marissa Raven Cato charged with Criminal Trespass II & Resisting Arrest, “Cato transported to CCJ.”

Disorderly
According to an entry on the CQPD log for July 14, 6:38 p.m., So. Cedar St., 43-year old Jeremy Sean Gray charged with Disorderly Conduct II, “Gray transported to CCJ.”

Theft
According to an entry on the CQPD log for July 14, 8:40 p.m., No. Henry & No. 10th, “result of theft,” 25-year old Rylee Thurman charged with Disorderly Conduct II, “transport CCJ.”

Warrant
According to an entry on the NBPD log for July 14, 4:18 p.m., 2400 block Maple Leaf, “warrant service,” on 45-year old Michael Gertson charging FTA on Unlawful Possession of Meth, “Gertson transported CCJ.”

Suspicious Vehicle
According to an entry on the NBPD log for July 14, 8:59 p.m., 13th & Everett, “suspicious vehicle,” 34-year old Alora Lee Lattimer charged with FTA on Criminal Trespass I & FTA on Criminal Trespass I, “transported to CCJ.”

Traffic stop
According to an entry on the NBPD log for July 14, 11:10 p.m., 1300 block Virginia Ave., “traffic stop,” 50-year old Curtis Michael Siemer charged with Failure to Register as a Sex Offender, “transported CCJ.”

Illegal Camping, CB
According to an entry on the CBPD log for July 14, 6:20 a.m., 525 Anderson Ave., CBPL, “illegal camping.” At 7:20 a.m., 525 Anderson Ave., CBPL, “illegal camping.”

Criminal Trespass
According to an entry on the CBPD log for July 14, 7:37 a.m., 525 Anderson Ave., CBPL, 39-year old Don William Boyd charge with Criminal Trespass II, “Boyd transported CCJ.”

Warrant
According to an entry on the CBPD log for July 14, 11:14 a.m., 700 block So. Empire Blvd., 35-year old Sean Michael Jordan arrested on Lincoln Co. SO warrant charging Probation Violation on Possession, “Jordan transported CCJ.”

Warrant
According to an entry on the CBPD log for July 14, 1:07 p.m., Central & No. 4th St., “result person stop,” 28-year old Jared Timothy Crawford Decker arrested on NBPD warrant charging FTA on Theft II, “transported CCJ.”

Criminal Trespass
According to an entry on the CBPD log for July 14, 6:26 p.m., 525 Anderson Ave., CBPL, “result of trespass,” 69-year old David Leland Fitzhenry charged with Criminal Trespass II, “arrested and transported CCJ.”

WX
Cloudy early with peeks of sunshine late, highs in the mid 60s and winds from the West to Northwest at 5-10 mph. Partly to mostly cloudy tonight with lows near 50 and winds out of the Northeast at 5-10 mph. A few clouds early, otherwise mostly sunny with highs in the mid to upper 60s and winds from the North at 10-15 mph.

Sports

Networking Trip Takes Student-Athletes to Chicago
UO release - Women's basketball student-athlete Sofia Bell documents a summer student-athlete development experience enjoyed by herself and other Ducks. By: Sofia Bell, UO women's basketball. From June 16-19, 14 Oregon student-athletes representing seven teams traveled to Chicago for the annual Student-Athlete Development Career Networking Trip. Over the course of four days, we visited nine companies, had dinner with the Chicago Duck Alumni group, volunteered at Off the Street Club, and explored all that the city of Chicago had to offer. On day one, immediately after landing at O'Hare, we went to the Big Ten Network, where we toured the production studios and got a behind-the-scenes look at the operation. "One of the highlights of our Chicago career networking experience was visiting the Big Ten Network," shared football student-athlete Ziyare Addison. "Seeing firsthand how one of the nation's premier collegiate sports networks operates gave us a new appreciation for the teamwork and preparation behind every broadcast. Connecting with professionals across the organization showed us that there are countless opportunities to stay involved in sports beyond playing the game." On day two, the group visited Razorfish, PepsiCo, Northern Trust Bank, and the Chicago Cubs, eventually capping off the evening with a Cubs game. At PepsiCo, the group got a firsthand look at a global powerhouse. "Our visit to PepsiCo and Gatorade gave us an inside look at how innovation, nutrition, and performance come together to support athletes at the highest level," Ziyare noted. "It was inspiring to see the work behind one of the world's most recognizable brands." The diversity of the companies visited on day two offered something for everyone. As student-athlete Kylee Manser reflected, "Whether we were learning about marketing and creative strategy at Razorfish, business and finance at Northern Trust and the Federal Reserve, sports and partnerships at the Chicago Cubs, or athlete representation at Priority Sports, each visit provided a unique perspective." On day three, we visited Zeno Group, Motion Agency, Priority Sports, the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, and had dinner with the local Chicago Alumni group. Connecting directly with industry leaders was a major theme of the day. "We had the opportunity to connect with Nicole and Maya at Zeno Group, who demonstrated the power of communication, authentic relationships, and professional networking," said Ziyare. "Later, at Motion Agency, CEO Kimberly Eberl shared valuable lessons on leadership, creativity, and building meaningful relationships. Her insights challenged us to think bigger about our careers and the impact we want to make." On our final day, we spent the morning volunteering with Off the Street Club. "One of the most memorable moments of the trip came at the Off the Street Club," Ziyare shared. "Spending time playing basketball, laughing, and connecting with the kids reminded us that leadership is about serving others. Being able to pour into the next generation was a powerful reminder that the greatest impact we can make often happens off the field." Ultimately, the trip was about expanding horizons. Kylee summarized the collective experience of the group perfectly: "The trip gave us the opportunity to step outside of our everyday athletic routines and explore different career paths while connecting with professionals who were willing to share their experiences, advice, and insights. At each organization, we had the chance to network with employees from different backgrounds, learn about their career journeys, and ask questions about their industries. These conversations allowed us to better understand the variety of opportunities available beyond sports while also learning how our experiences as athletes can be valuable in the workplace." We left Chicago with new connections, valuable advice, and a greater appreciation for how the leadership, teamwork, and determination we develop through athletics will continue to serve us in our future careers.

Brian Watts Named Oregon State Men’s Golf Head Coach
OSU release - July 15, 2026 | Men's Golf - CORVALLIS, Ore. – Brian Watts, who led Oregon State to five NCAA Regional appearances, is returning to the program as the Beavers' head coach, Vice President and Director of Athletics Kevin Griffin announced on Wednesday. Watts served as Oregon State's head coach for nine seasons from 2001 to 2010, guiding the Beavers to regional appearances in 2003, 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010. He led OSU to a 16th-place finish at the 2010 NCAA Championships. "I am excited to announce that Brian will be returning to Corvallis as our next head coach," Griffin said. "He had significant success during a nine-year tenure at Oregon State, then seven years at Army West Point, and is a well-respected coach and mentor in the golf community. Oregon State is fortunate to have him return to lead this program." Watts led the Army West Point program from 2010-17, which included three more postseason appearances and a 2015 selection as Northeast Region Coach of the Year. "I'm humbled, honored and fired up to lead the Oregon State men's golf team," Watts said. "I want to thank Kevin Griffin for his belief in me and for the opportunity to represent this program on and off the course. "Oregon State is a special place and I know that finding the right student-athletes who embrace the everyday challenges of college life and collegiate athletics will be important. In doing so, we will be successful. I look forward to continue building on Jon Reehoorn's success as his teams were accomplished in the classroom and on the golf course. After my conversation with Kevin and the athletics leadership team, it was clear that Oregon State's vision and values align with my own. " Watts' first tenure as Oregon State's head coach saw the Beavers claim eight tournament titles, while his golfers won 11 tournaments individually. Diego Velasquez had one of the most historic careers in the program's history under Watts' tutelage, posting a school-record eight top-10 finishes to go along with three tournament victories, two of which came during the 2008-09 season. He ended his career with a 72.06 scoring average, which now ranks third at Oregon State, and is due in large part to his then-school record 70.31 average in 2009-10. The individual career record holder for the Beavers, James Allenby, also competed under Watts. He played in 67 rounds over two seasons, averaging 71.46 shots per round. Allenby (2008) and Velasquez (2010) were each named All-Americans during Watts' tenure. Velasquez was selected as a first-teamer by the GCAA and Golfweek. Watts also mentored current professional Paul Peterson, who recently finished fifth at the Puerto Rico Open and 11th at the ONEflight Myrtle Beach Classic. Peterson's 2008-09 season saw him average 71.85 strokes per round, among the top-20 seasons in Oregon State history. Army, meanwhile, had five Patriot League individual champions in Watts' tenure and he led the program to two conference titles. He went on to lead the Black Knights to five more finishes in the top three of the Patriot League Championships. Watts mentored current PGA Tour competitor Marcus Plunkett during his time in New York. Plunkett was a three-time All-Patriot League selection and earned its Rookie of the Year honor in 2013. The Reedsport, Ore., native worked with Second Nine Golf after his tenure at Army, then took over as the athletic director role at Reedsport High School from 2022-2025. He has also led Coach Watts Consulting since May of 2020. He served as an assistant coach for both the men's and women's golf teams at Oregon State prior to being named the program's head coach. He also spent four years competing on various professional tours, including the Golden State Tour, the Space Coast Tour and the Canadian PGA Tour. He spent one season as a recruited football player for the Beavers before transferring to Western Oregon State College (new Western Oregon) in 1989. Watts' appointment is contingent on the completion of all university hiring processes. Watts is married to Missy. He has four children: Brian, Madeline (married to Alex), Olivia and Alexandra. What They're Saying: "I will always be grateful for the opportunity to play for Coach Watts at Oregon State. His emphasis on character, accountability, and pursuing excellence helped shape my approach to leadership and has been a guiding influence throughout my nearly 20-year career at Nike. Just as importantly, the values he instilled in his players continue to impact how I approach life and parenthood today." - Brad Simpson, Oregon State letterwinner (2004-05). "Coach Watts played a pivotal role in shaping my character and development. He excels at building disciplined, tight-knit programs rooted in hard work, accountability, and a genuine sense of family. His deep understanding of the game and elite coaching ability is unmatched. I place complete trust in him as a coach, mentor, and lifelong friend." Marcus Plunkett, professional golfer, Army West Point letterwinner (2012-16). "From the moment he recruited me all the way to present day, Coach Watts has wanted the best for me along with every other player I watched him recruit. He establishes a fantastic culture within the program. I wouldn't be the man I am today without the lessons I learned being a part of his team. The lessons he taught us are applicable both on and off the course and I can't think of a better person to coach the current and future players who attend the Oregon State University Men's Golf Program. 'The city of Corvallis and OSU are so lucky to have someone like Coach Watts returning to the program. He brings a ton of experience recruiting talent and has the ability to turn those players into the best men and golfers they can be. As an alum, I couldn't be happier to have Coach Watts continue the momentum that Coach Reehoorn has created over the past decade with the program and cannot wait to see what the future holds for this team." – Paul Peterson, professional golfer, Oregon State letterwinner (2007-10). "Coach Watts was like my second father and was the main reason I chose Oregon State over my other options. He believed in me since day one and always cared about my well-being. He always made me go the extra mile and pushed me to be comfortable with the uncomfortable. He is a mentor and a great friend. Coach Watts is always willing to help others. He will do anything to help you be successful on and off the course. His charisma and personality are what set him apart from other coaches." – Diego Velasquez, Oregon State letterwinner (2007-10).