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Former Camas-Washougal fire chief to be sentenced in wife’s murder Featured News by Oregon Today News
Former Camas-Washougal fire chief to be sentenced in wife’s murder
According to investigators West initially told authorities that his wife was suffering fro... More

02/27/2026

‘I think about dying’: Horror movie icon grows up in new made-in-Oregon film Featured News by Oregon Today News
‘I think about dying’: Horror movie icon grows up in new made-in-Oregon film
Bruce Campbell is no stranger to death His original Evil Dead movie in 1981 had enough blo... More

02/27/2026

MAYOR'S MESSAGE Looking back on 2025, I’m struck by how much of the work our Police and Fire teams that never makes headlines—but makes a real difference in everyday life here in our community. At a recent Council meeting, Police Chief Chris Chapanar and Fire Chief Jeff Adkins walked us through the year in review. What stood out most was steady progress, thoughtful improvements, and a continued commitment to serving our residents with professionalism and care. In 2025, the Police Department responded to 31,088 calls for service, a decrease of about 7.9% from the year before. Case numbers also declined to 3,427, and total arrests dropped from 1,200 to 1,092. Chief Chapanar emphasized that numbers never tell the whole story. Staffing levels play a big role in what officers are able to do proactively. At one point last year, the department was down six members due to retirements, injuries, and turnover. When that happens, officers must focus first on priority calls, which can mean fewer traffic stops and fewer proactive patrol checks. Even so, there were several positive trends that directly affect daily life in our neighborhoods and business districts. Criminal trespass and criminal mischief both decreased. Burglaries dropped by about 20%, and stolen vehicles were down more than 50%. Those reductions matter. They represent fewer break-ins, fewer repeat nuisance situations, and fewer residents dealing with the disruption of property crimes. There were also areas that deserve our attention. Traffic crashes rose significantly, from 188 to 273, and DUII arrests increased to 143. Chief Chapanar was clear that DUII is a completely avoidable crime, and while enforcement plays a role, community choices are equally important. Slowing down, driving attentively, and never getting behind the wheel impaired are simple actions that protect everyone. One encouraging development has been the department’s online reporting system, PD Connect. Over the past year, nearly 400 reports were submitted online, including crime tips, abandoned vehicles, thefts, and other concerns. Each report is reviewed and routed appropriately, helping the department respond efficiently while giving residents another convenient way to communicate. Behind all of this is an enormous amount of work that often goes unseen. Dispatch handled more than 128,000 calls last year, dispatchers and officers logged thousands of hours of training. The dedication of these professionals, especially while navigating staffing challenges, deserves real recognition. Fire Chief Jeff Adkins shared that the Fire Department responded to 4,033 calls in 2025. The majority—2,739—were medical-related. The remainder included public assists, fire-related calls, and hazardous condition responses. One of the biggest themes from the Fire Department this year was investing in people. With leadership transitions and retirements, the department filled key positions, including bringing on new firefighter engineers. Chief Adkins highlighted the success of the apprentice program, which helps individuals enter the fire service by reducing traditional barriers and providing structured, hands-on training. It’s already proving to be a strong pathway for developing local talent. Another important change in 2025 was the implementation of what the department calls “Code Charlie.” In practical terms, this allows firefighters to be cleared from certain low-acuity medical calls when an ambulance is already responding. Patient care is still covered, but the fire engine doesn’t need to roll in every instance. This reduces wear and tear on equipment, lowers risk and exposure for firefighters, and keeps crews available for higher-priority emergencies. It’s a smart refinement that helps preserve resources while maintaining service levels. Chief Adkins also spoke about long-term readiness. The department now has a 100-foot platform ladder truck at the station, and while it requires specialized training before full deployment, it significantly enhances our ability to respond to complex emergencies. Efforts are also continuing around facility improvements, including pursuing grant opportunities for seismic upgrades. One of the most meaningful moments during the Council discussion was the appreciation expressed for both departments. Public safety work happens 24 hours a day, often under challenging circumstances, and with limited resources. The professionalism, adaptability, and dedication shown by our Police and Fire teams are something we should all be proud of. As we move into 2026, the focus remains clear: strengthen staffing, refine systems, invest wisely in equipment and training, and continue building trust with the community. Public safety is not just about responding to emergencies—it’s about prevention, partnership, and steady improvement. Thank you to Chief Adkins, Chief Chapanar, and every member of their teams for the work you do every day to keep our community safe. -Joe Benetti, Mayor of Coos Bay Featured News by City of Coos Bay
MAYOR'S MESSAGE Looking back on 2025, I’m struck by how much of the work our Police and Fire teams that never makes headlines—but makes a real difference in everyday life here in our community. At a recent Council meeting, Police Chief Chris Chapanar and Fire Chief Jeff Adkins walked us through the year in review. What stood out most was steady progress, thoughtful improvements, and a continued commitment to serving our residents with professionalism and care. In 2025, the Police Department responded to 31,088 calls for service, a decrease of about 7.9% from the year before. Case numbers also declined to 3,427, and total arrests dropped from 1,200 to 1,092. Chief Chapanar emphasized that numbers never tell the whole story. Staffing levels play a big role in what officers are able to do proactively. At one point last year, the department was down six members due to retirements, injuries, and turnover. When that happens, officers must focus first on priority calls, which can mean fewer traffic stops and fewer proactive patrol checks. Even so, there were several positive trends that directly affect daily life in our neighborhoods and business districts. Criminal trespass and criminal mischief both decreased. Burglaries dropped by about 20%, and stolen vehicles were down more than 50%. Those reductions matter. They represent fewer break-ins, fewer repeat nuisance situations, and fewer residents dealing with the disruption of property crimes. There were also areas that deserve our attention. Traffic crashes rose significantly, from 188 to 273, and DUII arrests increased to 143. Chief Chapanar was clear that DUII is a completely avoidable crime, and while enforcement plays a role, community choices are equally important. Slowing down, driving attentively, and never getting behind the wheel impaired are simple actions that protect everyone. One encouraging development has been the department’s online reporting system, PD Connect. Over the past year, nearly 400 reports were submitted online, including crime tips, abandoned vehicles, thefts, and other concerns. Each report is reviewed and routed appropriately, helping the department respond efficiently while giving residents another convenient way to communicate. Behind all of this is an enormous amount of work that often goes unseen. Dispatch handled more than 128,000 calls last year, dispatchers and officers logged thousands of hours of training. The dedication of these professionals, especially while navigating staffing challenges, deserves real recognition. Fire Chief Jeff Adkins shared that the Fire Department responded to 4,033 calls in 2025. The majority—2,739—were medical-related. The remainder included public assists, fire-related calls, and hazardous condition responses. One of the biggest themes from the Fire Department this year was investing in people. With leadership transitions and retirements, the department filled key positions, including bringing on new firefighter engineers. Chief Adkins highlighted the success of the apprentice program, which helps individuals enter the fire service by reducing traditional barriers and providing structured, hands-on training. It’s already proving to be a strong pathway for developing local talent. Another important change in 2025 was the implementation of what the department calls “Code Charlie.” In practical terms, this allows firefighters to be cleared from certain low-acuity medical calls when an ambulance is already responding. Patient care is still covered, but the fire engine doesn’t need to roll in every instance. This reduces wear and tear on equipment, lowers risk and exposure for firefighters, and keeps crews available for higher-priority emergencies. It’s a smart refinement that helps preserve resources while maintaining service levels. Chief Adkins also spoke about long-term readiness. The department now has a 100-foot platform ladder truck at the station, and while it requires specialized training before full deployment, it significantly enhances our ability to respond to complex emergencies. Efforts are also continuing around facility improvements, including pursuing grant opportunities for seismic upgrades. One of the most meaningful moments during the Council discussion was the appreciation expressed for both departments. Public safety work happens 24 hours a day, often under challenging circumstances, and with limited resources. The professionalism, adaptability, and dedication shown by our Police and Fire teams are something we should all be proud of. As we move into 2026, the focus remains clear: strengthen staffing, refine systems, invest wisely in equipment and training, and continue building trust with the community. Public safety is not just about responding to emergencies—it’s about prevention, partnership, and steady improvement. Thank you to Chief Adkins, Chief Chapanar, and every member of their teams for the work you do every day to keep our community safe. -Joe Benetti, Mayor of Coos Bay
MAYORS MESSAGE Looking back on 2025 Im struck by how much of the work our Police and Fire... More

02/27/2026

SNL mocked her as a 'scary mom.' In the Senate, Katie Britt is an emerging dealmaker Featured News by Oregon Today News
SNL mocked her as a 'scary mom.' In the Senate, Katie Britt is an emerging dealmaker
Stay up to date with our Politics newsletter sent weeklyTwo years ago Republican Sen Katie... More

02/27/2026

No. 18 Oregon softball returns to Jane Sanders to begin Oregon Classic Featured News by Oregon Today News
No. 18 Oregon softball returns to Jane Sanders to begin Oregon Classic
No 18 Oregon Softball is flocking back to Jane Sanders Stadium for the first time in the 2... More

02/27/2026

Bill Clinton says he 'did nothing wrong' with Epstein as he faces grilling over their relationship Featured News by Oregon Today News
Bill Clinton says he 'did nothing wrong' with Epstein as he faces grilling over their relationship
I saw nothing and I did nothing wrong the former Democratic president said in an opening s... More

02/27/2026

When will Savannah Guthrie be back on the 'TODAY' show? Featured News by Oregon Today News
When will Savannah Guthrie be back on the 'TODAY' show?
It has been nearly a month since Nancy Guthrie was abducted from her southern Arizona home More

02/27/2026

A total lunar eclipse will turn the moon blood red on Tuesday across several continents Featured News by Oregon Today News
A total lunar eclipse will turn the moon blood red on Tuesday across several continents
A blood-red moon will soon grace the skies for a total lunar eclipse and there wont be an... More

02/27/2026

On the Fly with DG Chris – Satellite Club of Medford Rogue Featured News by Rotary International District 5110
On the Fly with DG Chris – Satellite Club of Medford Rogue
This satellite of Medford Rogue Club just started 5 months ago Club Chair and also Distric... More

02/27/2026

Anthropic refuses to bend to Pentagon on AI safeguards as dispute nears deadline Featured News by Oregon Today News
Anthropic refuses to bend to Pentagon on AI safeguards as dispute nears deadline
A public showdown between the Trump administration and Anthropic is hitting an impasse as ... More

02/27/2026

Schools could soon have expanded options to treat severe allergic reactions Featured News by Oregon Today News
Schools could soon have expanded options to treat severe allergic reactions
While legislators are supposed to represent their constituents its not often that a letter... More

02/27/2026

Can this music festival become Portland’s SXSW in just two months? Featured News by Oregon Today News
Can this music festival become Portland’s SXSW in just two months?
On the surface the festival sounds perfect A multi-venue multi-day ode to the music indust... More

02/27/2026

Democrats again delay vote on their controversial gas tax move Featured News by Oregon Today News
Democrats again delay vote on their controversial gas tax move
The Oregon Legislature yet again delayed a vote on one of the most politically contentious... More

02/27/2026

Man who repeatedly rammed rideshare car in Vancouver last year arrested, found lying in street Featured News by Oregon Today News
Man who repeatedly rammed rideshare car in Vancouver last year arrested, found lying in street
A man who repeatedly rammed his car into a rideshare vehicle last November has been arrest... More

02/27/2026

Join us for the following FREE programs during the week of March 1 – March 7! 📚 👧🏽 C.R.E.A. on Monday, March 2 @ 5:30pm 🚹 Open Men's Group on Monday, March 2 @ 6:00pm 👶 Baby Storytime on Tuesday, March 3 @ 10:00am ☀️ Science Fiction & Fantasy Book Club on Tuesday, March 3 @ 5:45pm [Registration Required] | March’s Book: ‘Project Hail Mary’ by Andy Weir | Virtual Program Meeting on Zoom 📖 Storytime on Wednesday, March 4 @ 10:00am 👑 Movie Night on Wednesday, March 4 @ 5:30pm | Tonight’s Film: The Goonies (1985) Rated PG 🧁 Read Across America on Thursday, March 5 @ 4:00pm 📚 Pickup/Drop-off Eastside on Friday, March 6 @ 9:00am at the Eastside Fire Station (365 D Street, Coos Bay) 📖 Pickup/Drop-off Empire on Friday, March 6 @ 10:00am at the Empire Fire Station (189 S Wall Street, Coos Bay) 🧱 Build-It! Club on Friday, March 6 @ 2:00pm 🧶 Fiber Arts Friday on Friday, March 6 @ 3:30pm 🛍️ Friends of the Library Book Sale on Saturday, March 7 @ 10:00am* 🌶️ Spice of the Month kits become available at 12:00pm on Saturday, March 7 | March’s Spice Mix: Vindaloo Curry *9:00am for FOL Members ONGOING PROGRAMS: 🥫 Ark Project Food Drive from Friday, January 2 - Saturday, May 30 Visit http://www.coosbaylibrary.org for a full calendar of upcoming events or subscribe to our e-newsletter by visiting www.coosbayor.gov and clicking the yellow 'Subscribe' button at the bottom of the page. Featured News by Coos Bay Public Library
Join us for the following FREE programs during the week of March 1 – March 7! 📚 👧🏽 C.R.E.A. on Monday, March 2 @ 5:30pm 🚹 Open Men's Group on Monday, March 2 @ 6:00pm 👶 Baby Storytime on Tuesday, March 3 @ 10:00am ☀️ Science Fiction & Fantasy Book Club on Tuesday, March 3 @ 5:45pm [Registration Required] | March’s Book: ‘Project Hail Mary’ by Andy Weir | Virtual Program Meeting on Zoom 📖 Storytime on Wednesday, March 4 @ 10:00am 👑 Movie Night on Wednesday, March 4 @ 5:30pm | Tonight’s Film: The Goonies (1985) Rated PG 🧁 Read Across America on Thursday, March 5 @ 4:00pm 📚 Pickup/Drop-off Eastside on Friday, March 6 @ 9:00am at the Eastside Fire Station (365 D Street, Coos Bay) 📖 Pickup/Drop-off Empire on Friday, March 6 @ 10:00am at the Empire Fire Station (189 S Wall Street, Coos Bay) 🧱 Build-It! Club on Friday, March 6 @ 2:00pm 🧶 Fiber Arts Friday on Friday, March 6 @ 3:30pm 🛍️ Friends of the Library Book Sale on Saturday, March 7 @ 10:00am* 🌶️ Spice of the Month kits become available at 12:00pm on Saturday, March 7 | March’s Spice Mix: Vindaloo Curry *9:00am for FOL Members ONGOING PROGRAMS: 🥫 Ark Project Food Drive from Friday, January 2 - Saturday, May 30 Visit http://www.coosbaylibrary.org for a full calendar of upcoming events or subscribe to our e-newsletter by visiting www.coosbayor.gov and clicking the yellow 'Subscribe' button at the bottom of the page.
Join us for the following FREE programs during the week of March 1 March 7 CREA on Mon... More

02/27/2026

Oregon House again delays vote to reschedule transportation tax election Featured News by Oregon Today News
Oregon House again delays vote to reschedule transportation tax election
State election officials had urged lawmakers to get Gov Tina Koteks signature by Wednesday... More

02/27/2026

State Farm announces $5 billion cash-back dividend for customers Featured News by Oregon Today News
State Farm announces $5 billion cash-back dividend for customers
State Farm will pay a record 5 billion dividend to qualifying auto insurance customers thi... More

02/27/2026

Elections office in Oregon’s most populous county stretched thin, audit finds Featured News by Oregon Today News
Elections office in Oregon’s most populous county stretched thin, audit finds
Multnomah Countys elections division is stretched thin and with another round of ranked-ch... More

02/27/2026

Where to buy Nike's new Grateful Ducks gear today, with free shipping Featured News by Oregon Today News
Where to buy Nike's new Grateful Ducks gear today, with free shipping
The Oregon Ducks and Nike have teamed up with the Grateful Dead to bring yet another Grate... More

02/27/2026

Oregon State basketball coach Wayne Tinkle fired after 12 seasons Featured News by Oregon Today News
Oregon State basketball coach Wayne Tinkle fired after 12 seasons
Oregon State has dismissed basketball coach Wayne Tinkle after 12 seasons with the Beavers... More

02/27/2026

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