MAYOR'S MESSAGE Threads That Bind: Honoring a Downtown Legacy This week, the City of Coos Bay had the privilege of being represented at the open house marking the final days of business for Threads That Bind, a beloved downtown shop that has served our community for more than 30 years. While I was out of town, our City Manager, Nichole Rutherford, attended on my behalf to help recognize this meaningful milestone. For three decades, Threads That Bind has been more than a sewing and fabric store—it has been a place of connection. A place where creativity was shared, friendships were formed, and generations of Coos Bay residents found both inspiration and belonging. From all accounts, the open house was a reflection of that legacy, filled with stories, appreciation, and a deep sense of community. Nichole had the opportunity to spend time with the owner and her daughter, reflecting on the years of dedication, craftsmanship, and care that have defined this small business. Their story is one of hard work, resilience, and deep roots in Coos Bay. The name Threads That Bind feels especially fitting as we mark this transition. Small businesses like this are the threads that bind a community together—connecting neighbors, supporting families, and creating the shared experiences that give a place its identity. They are part of the fabric of Coos Bay. While it is never easy to say goodbye to a long-standing business, it is important to pause and celebrate what has been built and the legacy that remains. The impact of Threads That Bind will continue to be felt in the quilts, garments, and memories created there—and in the relationships that will carry forward. On behalf of the City of Coos Bay, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the owner and her family for their decades of contribution to our downtown and our community. You have helped stitch together something truly special. As we turn the page, may we continue to support and uplift the local businesses that shape our city—and remember that it is these connections, these threads, that truly bind us together. -Joe Benetti, Mayor of Coos Bay Business Notation: "Threads That Bind Quilt Shop" is closing its doors after 30+ years of business. Sharan Thompson first started longarm quilting when she converted her garage and purchased her first machine. Sharan opened her 1st quilt shop in the early 90s, downtown at 2nd and Central. In 2000, Threads, then moved to its current location at 120 Central Avenue. Sharan, the Owner and Manager, has been running the shop selling fabric, supplies and notions, and doing machine quilting for the Coos Bay Community. A few years later, Pam Boatright joined the team and has been a dedicated employee for 21 years. Sharan would also like to thank all the other employees over the years who have contributed to the success of the business. Threads That Bind, has been THE gathering place for sewing and quilting groups, including Woolies, Thursday Ladies and hosted multiple classes. Sharan, at 87 years old, is reluctantly retiring but plans to remain active in the Quilting Community. Threads That Bind wants to thank everyone for all the support and patronage over the years, it couldn't have lasted this long without all of you.Photos from Coos Bay - City Government's post