Serving Oregon’s South Coast Since 1878 TUESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2023 | theworldlink.com |
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Economic evolution for South Coast backed by federal investment By NATE SCHWARTZ The World
A major announcement was made in Washington D.C. last week that may have a significant impact on the South Coast’s economic future. The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration has granted a federal investment to South Coast Development Council, Inc. to the tune of $300,000, as announced by U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley,
as well as Congresswoman Val Hoyle. The investment, which will be overseen by SCDC Inc. in a partnership with the business incubator at Southwestern Oregon Community College’s Small Business Development Center, is meant to foster growth in the Blue and Green sectors of the local economy along with emerging tech-based startups. “This federal investment in the South Coast will generate jobs innovation and economic activity that will ripple out for
years to come” said Wyden in a Senate press release. This directive, called ‘The South Coast Incubator Technology Industry Ecosystem Development project,’ is aimed at providing innovators and entrepreneurs with advisory support, prototyping services, and capital for development. Though, as stated by interim Executive Director Bryan Sykes, “This initiative is about more than just providing resources; it’s about nurturing the local business
ecosystem. We’re bringing specialized programming and advanced equipment to the area, targeting the upliftment of small businesses.” The grandiose idea behind the project is one of sustainable economic evolution for the area. The South Coast is rife with opportunity for innovation in the Blue and Green economy given its unique ties to traditional forest and ocean related industries alike. “There is palpable concern about how projects like
offshore wind farms might impact existing local industries,” continued Sykes, when asked about the importance of the environmental economy. “In response, we are actively collaborating with partner organizations to establish local training programs that align with these new initiatives... we’re committed to ensuring that any development is sustainable and considerate of the region’s existing economic Please see INVESTMENT Page 2
Shore Acres lights up for the holidays By DAVID RUPKALVIS The World
For the 39th year, the Christmas lights at Shore Acres filled the night sky on Thanksgiving, with the spectacular display continuing through the end of the year. More than 325,000 lights were lit up beginning Thanksgiving night to celebrate the holiday season with a dramatic display that left those in attendance oohing aweing throughout the seven-acre park. While the entire park was lit up in dramatic displays, the big draw was close to a dozen captivating displays highlighting the wildlife and vegetation often seen along Shore Acres. For the second straight year, entry to Shore Acres limited to those who reserved and paid for a parking pass in advance, but a new wrinkle this year opens the lights to everyone. For the first time, a shuttle bus is offered to bring anyone to the park. Every night from Thursday through Saturday, visitors can park at the Charleston
Photos by David Rupkalvis / The World
Shore Acres State Park lit up for the holiday season on Thanksgiving night, with the awe-inspiring display running each night through the end of the year. More than 325,000 lights shine bright at the park to encourage holiday cheer.
Please see SHORE ACRES Page 3
A Thanksgiving feast Staff and volunteers at the Coos Bay Salvation Army did their best to make sure no one went hungry on the Thanksgiving holiday. More than 30 volunteers came together to serve about 350 free Thanksgiving meals to community members. Salvation Army Major Erin M. Kauffman reported that
the charitable organization was able to deliver close to 100 meals, serve more than 200 plated meals, and prepare about 50 to-go meals on Thanksgiving day. Major Kauffman gave a big thanks to the great group of volunteers, staff, donors and advisory board members who came together to make it happen.
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