ICE Proposed Facility Looking for Rooms
A story drawing national attention is raising concerns along the Oregon Coast after reports that a military contractor is seeking up to 200 hotel rooms for workers tied to a proposed new ICE facility in Newport. The Oregonian reports that Team Housing Solutions has contacted hotels “up and down” the coast about reserving rooms for a full year beginning December 15th. But after reaching out to city officials and hotel operators in Florence, there is no indication that Florence is being targeted. Hoagland Properties’ Chief Operating Officer Amy Graham, says she has not been contacted by the contractor. City Manager Erin Reynolds also confirmed no inquiries have been made, adding that Police Chief John Pitcher has not received any communications from ICE or its representatives. Newport’s mayor has publicly stated he does not support the facility being built in his city.
Shop Small Saturday
This Saturday is Shop Small Saturday, highlighted locally by the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber and the Oregon Regional Accelerator and Innovation Network will host an information tent on the corner of Bay and Laurel from eleven to three. According to organizers, the first one hundred visitors will receive a complimentary Shop Local tote bag. The tent will feature guides for local businesses and non-profits, walking maps, holiday event details, and activities for kids, including SAMI and Ollie treasure maps and coloring sheets. Chamber officials say members wishing to have flyers or promotional items included can drop them at the Chamber office on Highway 101.
Coos Bat Festival
Coos Bay Shakespeare in the Park is presenting its first holiday radio play production next week at the Hales Center for the Performing Arts at Southwestern Oregon Community College. Organizers say actors will perform “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” and “Frosty the Snowman” live on stage in the style of a 1940s radio broadcast, complete with vintage microphones and sound effects. The performances on December thirteenth at seven p.m. and December fourteenth at two p.m. aim to showcase local talent and help raise funds for the group’s upcoming summer production of “The Comedy of Errors.” Admission is free, though donations will support future programming. The Hales Center is located on Newmark Avenue in Coos Bay.
