Issuu

Custom-crafted home

Complete renovation and remodel by a licensed builder that specializes in coastal construction. High end quality finishes include:

• New wrap-around cedar deck with stunning lake views!

• Spa-inspired primary bathroom with soaking tub and heated floors.

• Custom kitchen cabinetry, updated appliances.

• Brand new roof and Hardie plank siding.

• All new LVP flooring, flagstone and carpet.

• Full home re-pipe and updated electrical.

• 3 Bedroom 2.5 Baths.

• Move in ready.

541-921-8118

Roberta Tryon Principal Broker

541-994-9111

Steve Rutherford

3891 NW Hwy. 101, Lincoln City • 541-994-9111 • RealEstateLincolnCity.com

ABy Gretchen Ammerman Oregon Coast TODAY

s often happens, I went into the interview with Arturo Knight of MINI KISS with, absolutely no pun intended, low expectations.

The KISS tribute band is playing next week at the Newport Performing Arts Center and we are running the story, on page 16, one week early because the group’s shows sell out in advance at pretty much every venue they grace.

There is little I enjoy more than people who not just survive a challenge, but take it, run with it and kick its butt.

Updating me on what things are like for little people today, Arturo told me story after story about how incredibly lucky he feels to be living the life he is living and I hung up the phone feeling elevated.

And speaking of elevated, my little sidekick to the right turns eight this week. Here’s to many more years of her running, jumping and being my little treasure.

SALISHAN

Verdi entertaining

Giuseppe Verdi wrote the opera “Aida” as a commission from the then ruler of Egypt to celebrate the opening of the Khedivial Opera House. But thanks to the Siege of Paris in 1870, the opera missed opening night because the scenery and costumes were stuck in the French capital.

Thanks to streaming media, you won’t have to miss The Metropolitan Opera’s performance of this classic, presented Live in HD at the Newport Performing Arts Center this Saturday, Feb. 1.

One of the most performed operas in history, noted for its soaring arias, rousing choruses and displays of grand pageantry, “Aida” represents the epitome of grand opera.

The story begins with a group of archaeologists unearthing an Egyptian tomb unseen for millennia. One finds an ancient dagger with a royal insignia. As they take in the architecture and hieroglyphs, they visualize the reign of the pharaohs. Ancient Egypt provides an epic backdrop for what is, essentially, an intimate love story.

Angel Blue makes her Met role debut as the Ethiopian princess torn between love and country, one of opera’s defining roles. Hailed as a “sumptuously voiced soprano” by The New York Times,

Blue returns to the Live in HD series following celebrated cinema turns in the Gershwins’ “Porgy and Bess,” Terence Blanchard’s “Fire Shut Up in My Bones” and Puccini’s “La Rondine.” Star tenor Piotr Becza?a is the soldier Radamès, and mezzo-soprano Judit Kutasi takes on the role of Aida’s Egyptian rival, Amneris — completing opera’s greatest love triangle. The all-star cast also features baritone Quinn Kelsey as Amonasro and bass Dmitry Belosselskiy as Ramfis.

Music Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin conducts Tony Award-winning director Michael Mayer’s brilliant new staging, which brings audiences inside the towering pyramids and gilded tombs of ancient Egypt with intricate projections and dazzling animations.

The production, sung in Italian with English subtitles, begins at 9:30 am and runs for roughly three hours and 25 minutes, with one intermission that will include exclusive behind-the-scenes content and cast interviews led by host Rhiannon Giddens. Tickets range from $12 to $28. The Newport Performing Arts Center is located at 777 W Olive Street. For more information, go to coastarts. org or call 541-265-2787.

Read alert!

The Oregon Legacy Series returns to Lincoln City’s Driftwood Public Library

At Driftwood Public Library in Lincoln City, February might as well rhyme with legacy. Well, it doesn’t, but February does hail the arrival of the annual Oregon Legacy literary series, taking place on Sunday afternoons throughout the month.

The series opens on Feb. 2 with a visit from Portlandbased climate journalist and fiction writer Emma Pattee, who has written about climate change for The Atlantic, The New York Times and The Washington Post. In 2021, she coined the term “Climate Shadow” to describe an individual’s potential impact on climate change. Her fiction has appeared in Bellevue Literary Review, Idaho Review and New Orleans Review. Her debut novel, “Tilt,” will be published in March.

On Feb. 9, Dan Shryock will visit Lincoln City. He is a career journalist and Salem-based author and travel writer focusing on cycle tourism. After graduating from Indiana University’s School of Journalism, he served as a reporter and editor for newspapers in Indiana, California and Oregon. While working for the Times-Advocate in Escondido, California, he teamed with colleagues who together became Pulitzer Prize finalists in the field of explanatory journalism. He later served as editor of the Gazette-Times in Corvallis and as both managing editor and digital media director of the News-Register in McMinnville. He now enjoys producing freelance magazine and website content featuring cycle tourism and general travel. His writing has appeared on travel websites and in publications including the magazines Bend, Via, Cycle California! and Northwest Travel & Life.

Shryock recently launched a digital publication on Substack titled “Why We Ride.” His book, “Cycling Across Oregon: Stories, Surprises & Revelations Along the State’s Scenic Bikeways” follows a group of friends as they set out to explore the state’s 17 official scenic bikeways in a single year.

Oregon Legacy continues on Feb. 16 with a return visit from writer John Larison, who was born in Philomath in 1979. The son of National Geographic filmmakers, he spent much of his childhood on assignment. He attended the University of Oregon and studied philosophy and literature, then stayed to earn a master’s of education. While learning to write fiction, he worked as a fly-fishing and whitewater guide. His first book was a how-to text on fly-fishing,” The Complete Steelheader.” He went on to publish two fishing-related novels, “Northwest of Norma” and “Holding Lies.” His 2018 novel, “Whiskey When We’re Dry” was a Los Angeles Times and Seattle Times bestseller, an Indie Next Pick in hardcover and paperback, a finalist for the Ken Kesey Award and winner of the Will Rodgers Medallion. It was named a Best Book by O Magazine, Goodreads, Entertainment Weekly and Outside Magazine and was featured on NPR’s “All Things Considered.” His latest novel, “The Ancients,” was released last October. It has been selected as a Buzz Book by Publishers Marketplace and an Indie Next Pick by independent booksellers across the country.

beach reads

The series finishes on Feb. 23 with a visit from Josephine Woolington, who was born and raised in Portland. She has earned two bachelor’s degrees from the University of Oregon, in journalism and political science, and received the school’s highest award for

excellence in journalism. She has worked at several local newspapers in Oregon, where she wrote about everything from cops to hydropower. She’s a member of the Indigenous Journalists Association and the Society of Environmental Journalists, and her work has been supported by the Institute for Journalism & Natural Resources. In addition to journalism, Woolington is a musician and music instructor. She teaches at a nonprofit music school in North Portland that makes music lessons affordable to kids and adults. She has toured nationally and internationally with different local artists, and she writes, records and performs her own music as Josephine Antoinette. During the pandemic, she started researching and writing her first book, “Where We Call Home” a natural and cultural history essay collection about Pacific Northwest plants and animals that was published in November. The book won a 2024 Oregon Book Award. Each Sunday presentation begins at 3 pm on the second floor at 801 SW Hwy 101 in Lincoln City. For more information, email khobson@lincolncity.org or go to driftwoodlib.org.

Josephine Woolington

John Larison

Dan Shryock

Emma Pattee

A fun gathering is looming in Newport

Acelebration of all things fiber will take place at the Yaquina Fiber Arts Guild’s annual Spin In this Saturday, Feb. 1, at Newport Middle School.

“We are trying to get the word out about the guild,” said president Donna Carter. “The Spin In is the biggest thing we do all year.”

The event is an opportunity to see the fiber arts in action and the materials used in the various processes. There will be door prizes and food, as well as friendly people ready to share their craft, perhaps offer a try at their wheels. And plenty of shopping opportunities.

“We have more than 20 vendors that come from all over the state, and sometimes even from out of state,” Carter said. “A lot will have dyed wool, some come from farms and bring raw fleece, and there will be plenty of equipment and tools and even finished products.”

The event also raises funds that are donated back into the local community.

“The money from admissions goes to

local charities like Samaritan House and local food pantries,” Carter said. “We also like to support the Toledo Library where we have our meetings and Newport Middle School to thank them for letting us have the event there.”

The Spin in has been taking place for 25 years, and is where Carter found a new passion in 2020.

“I came because I had received a felting kit for Christmas and I had no clue what to do with it,” she said. “Once I saw everyone spinning and had the opportunity to shop, I got pretty excited. I bought some wool even though I had no idea what to do with that either, but once I joined the guild, I learned a lot and now I’m hooked.”

This year’s Spin In will run from 9 am to 4 pm at Newport Middle School, located at 825 NE 7th Street. Adult admission is $5.

For more information, go to the Yaquina Fiber Arts Guild page on Facebook.

The fungus never ends

Find everlasting treasures at this Yachats mushroom hunt

The edible mushroom-hunting season on the Oregon Coast is all too brief, but thanks to a new program from the Yachats Chamber of Commerce, you can experience the thrill of finding mushrooms for much longer. And these mushrooms never go bad.

For the second year in a row, the fall Yachats Mushrooms Festival ends with the beginning of The Yachats Mushroom Treasure Hunt, which runs through March 1.

Every Saturday, “trail gnomes” hide artistically crafted sculptures in hidden corners along easily accessible trails, inviting explorers to discover these whimsical treasures.

The spots chosen by the trail gnomes could be near the beach, in a botanical garden or in the forest, but all look like natural spots for a mushroom to be hiding.

“The fact that it’s on trails is a key difference from the glass float drops,” said Chamber Director Nichole Lippincott. “Our trail gnomes go all the way to Heceta Head. I have a guy that does the deeper trails for the more adventurous seeker.”

Similar to beachcombing but even more rewarding, these treasures are limited in number and uniquely special. Unlike traditional beachcombing, however, these handcrafted artisan mushrooms are safely hidden each Saturday morning through the winter — celebrating the mycological wonders that sustain the majestic Siuslaw Forest.

Each Saturday, after the treasures have been placed, the chamber creates and shares hints to their locations. A mix of photographs and poetry, the hints add a level of fun to the hunt and are often, but not always, helpful.

“We make up random clues to help people find the mushrooms and post them on the Yachats Mushroom Treasure Hunt website and on Instagram,” Lippincott said. “We’ve been having to make the clues harder

though because people were finding the mushrooms so fast.”

The season less traveled offers plenty of extra enticements. It’s the perfect time to don your rain gear, put on cozy socks and breathe deeply in the moisture-rich, highly ionized, golden-hued atmosphere that defines the coastal winter months.

This year, two artist studios are involved in creating the one-of-a-kind, handmade mushroom sculptures. Paris Birdwell designs are creating mushrooms of colorful and mind-bending swirls of glass, and Rasa Clay Works make them out of high-fired porcelain covered in crystalline glazes.

“The mushrooms are created in a way that reflects the beauty and fragility of the Siuslaw Forest,” said an artist from Rasa Clay Works. “I’m not trying to make perfect mushrooms, more to represent the changing nature of mushrooms and the beauty in that.”

Rasa Clay Works are creators of fine porcelain wares ranging from functional to architectural and are also part of the Yachats landscape. The artists at Rasa have lived in the Siuslaw for many decades and have long been avid mushroom enthusiasts. They have chosen to be inspired but not to create replicas of our forest ‘shrooms, sculpting in the spirit of our mycological flowers. The studio is open only by appointment.?

Birdwell has been honing her skills for many years. Her creations are an expression of her dedication and sensitivity to color and luminescence. Holmes Birdwell Glass can be visited right off Highway 101 at the north of Yachats.

Both studios are making the collectible ‘shrooms with the hope of bringing smiles and encouraging adventure to be a year-round endeavor.

“They are all so uniquely made,” Lippincott said. “We

are trying to support these small businesses and provide something that isn’t readily available for the people to just buy in a shop.”

Check in each Saturday morning for clues at www. YachatsTreasureHunt.com and on the visit.yachats page on Instagram.

For more information, call 541-547-2345.

Ansel Lippincott and Esmée Joy Lippincott

The third and final webinar of the Timber & Tides series, on Wednesday, Feb. 5, will focus on bird populations in forested landscapes

Presented by Seven Capes Bird Alliance, along with Mid-Willamette Bird Alliance, Coast Range Association, Sierra Club Oregon Chapter and Wild Salmon Center, the series has focused on the vital connections between coastal forests and marine ecosystems and explores these interwoven environments and why their conservation is critical now more than ever.

In “Managing Forests for Bird Conservation,” Dr. Matthew Betts will discuss how intensive forest management influences bird abundance in the Oregon Coast Range and will share findings from a long-term ecological research project focusing on how old-growth forests impact microclimate and bird population trends. Betts will conclude with research on tropical hummingbird species, examining how landscape fragmentation affects their populations. Betts completed his PhD in Environmental Management at the

Newport Cafe

naturalist’s calendar Webinar series wraps with bird talk

University of New Brunswick and conducted postdoctoral research at Dartmouth College in New Hampshire, where his research focused on population and molecular ecology. He is currently Professor and Ruth Spaniol Chair of Natural Resources Conservation in the College of Forestry at Oregon State University. He has taught classes on forest biodiversity and management for 16 years.

Betts is lead investigator for the Oregon Intensive Forest Management project, lead scientist for the HJ Andrews Long-term Ecological Research Program and director and founder of the OSU Forest Biodiversity Research Network. The author of more than 140 peer-reviewed publications, his work has been profiled in the New York Times, Washington Post, National Public Radio, CBC, National Geographic and Scientific American. Wednesday’s webinar runs from 6 to 7:30 pm. Pre-registration is required. To register and view recordings of the previous two sessions, go to sevencapes. org/timberandtides.

Farmers connect in Newport

The Oregon State University Extension Service welcomes farmers and resource providers in Lincoln County to participate in a networking activity at Newport’s OSU Extension Office this Friday, Jan. 31.

The facilitated event will include technical support providers and representatives from local marketing channels in Lincoln County. Bring a side or dessert to participate in the optional potluck.

The extension service shares research-

based knowledge with people and communities in Oregon’s 36 counties and addresses issues that matter to both urban and rural Oregonians.

To register, go to tinyurl.com/ Neighbors2025. Registrations will be accepted through the day of the event. The networking opportunity will take place from 4:30 to 6:30 pm at the OSU Extension Office, located at 1211 SE Bay Blvd. in Newport. For more information go to extension.oregonstate. edu or call 541-283-5119.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting the central Oregon coast, Newport Café treats everyone like they’re family. Our exceptional comfort food, huge portions, and extensive menu means you will find something you like and get a lot of it. Because our menu offers delicious daily specials, you can have all of our home cooked meals at a price you can afford. Proud home of the 8 lb burger.

541-574-6847 • thenewportcafe.com

Coast Calendar

Thursday,

Jan. 30

Winter Lecture Series

Newport Recreation Center

This Newport Parks and Recreation series continues with “Secrets of Tidepools.” 5:30 pm, 225 SE Avery Street. Guests can pre-purchase food from Siren’s Lure Teahouse and Bakery through the recreation center’s registration system.

Trivia Night

The Pines Dine • Lincoln City

Show off your knowledge while getting in the running for locally sponsored prizes for first and second place. 6 pm, 5040 SE Hwy. 101.

“Dial M for Murder”

Theatre West Lincoln City

Set in London in 1952, this classic thriller centers around a former tennis player who is plotting to have his unfaithful wife murdered so he can inherit her money. The deceptions and suspense build as the story heads toward its dramatic conclusion. 7 pm, 3536 SE Hwy. 101. Tickets, $15-$20, available at theatrewest.com or by calling 541-9945663.

Get listed!

Send your events details to calendar@oregoncoasttoday.com

This Yaquina Fiber Arts Guild event welcomes spinners from near and far, offering the opportunity to see the fiber arts in action and the materials used in the processes. There will be door prizes, vendors and food. Nearly all profits are donated back into the local community. $5. 9 am to 4 pm, 825 NE 7th Street.

“Aida”

Newport Performing Arts Center

See The Metropolitan Opera’s performance of this Verdi masterpiece live and in HD. Sung in Italian with English subtitles. 9:30 am-1 pm, 777 W Olive Street. Tickets $12 to $28. FMI, go to coastarts.org or call 541-265-2787.

Hey, cool calendar! How do get my event listed?

Easy, just follow these steps:

1) Host an event that is open to the public.

2) Email the details to calendar@oregoncoasttoday.com or call 541-921-0413.

3) That’s it.

Saturday, Feb. 1

Old Wheeler Garage Sale

Old Wheeler Hotel • Wheeler

A chance to shop, and for artists and creators to share ideas about how to make the community lively. 10 am-3 pm, 495 Hwy. 101 N.

Saturday Market

Taft Hall Lincoln City

Find handcrafted goods from local vendors alongside an array of home baked treats. 10 am-3 pm, 1206 SE 48th Street.

First Saturday Author Talks

Waldport Public Library

Author Jean Moule will talk about her books “Canyon Survival” and “Seeking Warmth and Light.” 2 pm, 460 NW Hemlock Street.

“Dial M for Murder”

Theatre West • Lincoln City

Monthly Community Breakfast

Panther Creek Community Center

• Otis

Friday, Jan. 31

Timeless Yin Yoga

Luminous Soul Center • Gleneden Beach

Yin yoga is a slower, sustained practice that works primarily on nourishing the deeper tissues, ligaments and tendons and focuses on the meridian channels in the body. First class free. Book at luminoussoulcenter.com. 10 am, 6645 Gleneden Beach Loop. FMI, call 971-313-2383.

Meet Your Neighbors

A networking activity for Lincoln County farmers and resource providers, featuring technical support providers and representatives from local marketing channels. 4:30 to 6:30 pm, 1211 SE Bay Blvd. To register, go to tinyurl.com/Neighbors2025. FMI, go to extension.oregonstate. edu or call 541-283-5119.

“Dial M for Murder”

Theatre West • Lincoln City

Sunday, Feb. 2

Monday, Feb. 3

Breakfast made to order. $8 for adults and $4 for children. 8-11 am, 655 N Wayside Loop, follow the signs from the Otis junction. FMI, email pcsacc@centurylink.net.

Pancake Breakfast & Shirt Sale

Gleneden Beach Community Hall

Enjoy a meal of scrambled eggs, sausage or ham, orange juice, all-you-can-eat pancakes, and hot beverages. $10 for adults, $6 for kids aged six to 12. Gleneden Beach sweatshirts available in multiple styles. 8-11 am, 110 Azalea Street.

First Weekend

Throughout Toledo

Toledo’s art community throws open its doors for First Weekend, with galleries and studios showcasing oil paintings, sculpture, photography and more. 10 am-4 pm. For details, see feature on page 22.

Sunday Sounds

Cafe Chill Waldport

Open mic with host Mac “The Duke” Esposito. Family-friendly acts, seasoned performers and fledgling talents welcome. 1-3 pm, 540 NE Commercial Street.

“The Joy of Music”

Newport Performing Arts Center

An afternoon of classical, popular, jazz, show tunes and rock ‘n roll, all performed by members of the Lincoln County District of the Oregon Music Teachers Association and their guests. Admission by donation, with proceeds benefiting the association’s scholarship fund. 2 pm, 777 W. Olive Street. FMI, go to omta-lincolncounty.org or call 541-961-0959.

“A Course in Miracles”

Congregational Church of Lincoln City

Book Sale

Driftwood Public Library Lincoln City

A book lover’s paradise with thousands of books, CDs, audiobooks, puzzles and more, with a 50-percent-off sale category every week. 10 am-2 pm, second floor, 801 SW Hwy. 101. FMI, call 541996-1215.

Chair Yoga

Lincoln City Senior Center

A gentle form of movement while your body is supported. Open to anyone 50 and older. A donation to the instructor is suggested. 11:30 am, inside the Lincoln City Community Center at 2150 NE Oar Place.

Call Shot Pool

Newport 60+ Activity Center

This ongoing spiritual self-study program offers a warm welcome to all. 2-3 pm, 2435 NW Oar Place. FMI, call Pam at 541-961-0084 or Mary Anne at 480-310-3433.

Oregon Legacy Series

Driftwood Public Library • Lincoln City

The series opens with a visit from Portland-based climate journalist and fiction writer Emma Pattee, who has written about climate change for The Atlantic, The New York Times and The Washington Post. 3 pm on the second floor at 801 SW Hwy. 101.

Artist of the Month

Bay City Arts Center

An opening reception for this art show featuring Lisa Allen, depicting iconic images of the art and people of 20th Century America through laser cut paper art. Light refreshments provided 5-7 pm, 5680 A Street.

Gentle Yoga Sessions

Lincoln City Cultural Center

This New Moon Yoga class features slow, gentle movements guided by the breath and awareness for flexibility in body, mind and spirit. Safe and appropriate for all levels. Noon, 540 NE Hwy. 101.

Tai Chi for Health

Newport Recreation Center

No matter what age, tai chi can help you focus your mind, improve your health and strengthen your body. $32 for four sessions. 12:30-1:30

6-8 pm, 540 NE Hwy. 101. FMI, call 541-992-1002 or email sachdeva.kanwal@gmail.com.

The three-part webinar series wraps up with a presentation by Dr. Matthew Betts,

Interested in a new, fun game of pool to play with others? This game invites Bank, Combination and Carom Shots. Get ready to chalk your cue. 2-4 pm, 20 SE 2nd Street. FMI, call 541-265-9617.

Journeys of Faith Book Club

Congregational Church of Lincoln City

The group will discuss “An Immense World” by Ed Yong. All are welcome. 2 pm, 2435 NW Oar Place.

Tuesday, Feb. 4

Your guide to live music on the Central Oregon Coast

Don’t see your favorite band or venue? Email the details to soundwaves@oregoncoasttoday.com and we’ll get you listed.

Thursday, Jan 30

Lincoln City Music Circle

Lincoln City Community Center

Acoustic instruments, voices and audiences of all ages are welcome to “solo, jam, or pass” and a piano is available. 4-7 pm, 2150 N Oar Place.

Bret Lucich

Oshen’s Restaurant • Gleneden Beach

An experience to remember from this singer-songwriter, entertainer and musician, with a wide variety of music for listening and dancing. 5:30-7:30 pm, at Salishan, 7755 N. Highway 101, 541-764-9026.

Thursday Jam Night

Newport Eagles Lodge

Hosted by Donnie King. Musicians, dancers and party-goers welcome. 6-8 pm-ish, 106 E Olive Street, 541-265-2430.

TBA The Drift Inn • Yachats

Not some fancy band name. Just “To Be Announced.” But it will be live and it will be fabulous.

6-8:30 pm, 124 Hwy. 101 N., 541-547-4477.

Jam Session

Snug Harbor • Lincoln City

Bret Lucich

Oshen’s Restaurant • Gleneden Beach

An experience to remember from this singer-songwriter, entertainer and musician, with a wide variety of music for listening and dancing. 5:30-7:30 pm, at Salishan, 7755 N. Highway 101, 541-764-9026.

Dylan Crawford

Pelican Brewing • Lincoln City

Enjoy a pint with a view, alongside live music. 6-8 pm, 5911 SE Hwy. 101, 541-614-4216.

The Welter Brothers Nana’s Irish Pub • Newport

Heartwarming folk duo. 6-9 pm, 613 NW 3rd Street.

Open mic jam session. All musicians welcome. 8:30 pmmidnight, 5001 SW Hwy. 101.

Karaoke

Zeller’s Bar & Grill • Lincoln City 8:30 pm-12:30 am, 1643 Hwy. 101, 541-994-8100.

Karaoke

Bay Haven Inn • Newport

Have a great time with local host Dr. B. and support a small, local venue. 8:30 pm-midnight, 608 SW Bay Blvd.

Friday, Jan. 31

Waldport Acoustic Jam

Waldport Community Center

Musicians and listeners of all ages and abilities are welcome and a piano is available. 3-5 pm, 265 NW Hemlock Street.

Donna Jose & Richard Paris

Fishing Rock Eatery & Lounge • Depoe Bay

Acoustic guitar duo. 5-8 pm, 3245 Hwy. 101.

Garibaldi Jam

Garibaldi Community Hall

Mostly old-time favorites and Country-Western standards. Cut a rug on the large dance floor or simply sit and enjoy. 6-8 pm, 6th Street and Acacia Avenue.

Chuck Tourtillott

The Drift Inn • Yachats

With musical influences ranging from classic rock, blues, folk and country, Chuck has developed a rich repertoire to share with his audiences. 6-8:30 pm, 124 Hwy. 101 N., 541-547-4477.

Karaoke

Bay Haven Inn • Newport

Have a great time with local host Dr B. and support a small, local venue. 8:30 pm-close, 608 SW Bay Blvd.

DJ Metal

Chinook Winds Casino Resort • Lincoln City

Playing club hits in the Rogue River Lounge. 10 pm-1:30 am, 1777 NW 44th Street. Lincoln City, 888-244-6665.

Saturday, Feb. 1

Old Peculier

Fishing Rock Eatery & Lounge • Depoe Bay

An eclectic trio performing everything from Hank Williams country ballads to Frank Zappa’s political, psychedelic rock, with tuneful stops along the way. 5-8 pm, 3245 Hwy. 101.

Bret Lucich

Oshen’s Restaurant • Gleneden Beach

An experience to remember from this singer-songwriter, entertainer and musician. 5:30-7:30 pm, at Salishan, 7755 N. Highway 101, 541-764-9026.

Sonny Hess Band

Beachcrest Brewing Company • Gleneden Beach

An evening of blues and rock from some Pacific Northwest favorites. 5:30-7:30 pm, at Salishan, 7755 N. Highway 101, 541-234-4013.

Elisha Phil

The Drift Inn • Yachats

This Eugene singer-songwriter strives to unpack the complex experiences and emotions that come with being human through simple, honest lyrics and melodies. 6-8:30 pm, 124 Hwy. 101 N., 541-547-4477.

Mercury Coast

Schooner Restaurant & Lounge • Netarts

Live music from coastal singer-songwriter Eric Sappington and friends. Call for reservations. 7-9 pm, 2065 Netarts Basin Boat Road, 503-815-9900.

Eli Young Band

Chinook Winds Casino Resort • Lincoln City

This Platinum-winning country band bring their hits to the coast, including “Break It In,” “Love Ain’t,” “Drunk Last Night,” “Even If It Breaks Your Heart” and “Crazy Girl.” 8 pm, 1777 NW 44th Street. Tickets, $45-$60, available at www. chinookwindscasino.com.

Karaoke

Snug Harbor Bar & Grill • Lincoln City

Hosted by Doctor B. 8:30 pm- midnight, 5001 SW Hwy. 101.

Karaoke

Bay Haven Inn • Newport

Have a great time with local host Precious. and support a small, local venue. 8:30 pm-close, 608 SW Bay Blvd.

Karaoke Zeller’s Bar & Grill • Lincoln City 9 pm-2 am, 1643 Hwy. 101, 541-994-8100.

DJ Metal

Chinook Winds Casino Resort • Lincoln City

Playing club hits in the Rogue River Lounge. 10 pm-1:30 am, 1777 NW 44th Street. Lincoln City, 888-244-6665.

Sunday, Feb. 2

Sunday Jam

Bay Haven Inn • Newport

A chance for professional musicians to collaborate and improvise. 3-6 pm, 608 SW Bay Blvd.

Overdue Bills

Yachats Underground Pub

Come celebrate the birthday of a founding Bill, with live acoustic blues and original ballads. 4-6 pm, 125 Oceanview Drive.

Sunday Jazz Jam

Beachcrest Brewing Company • Gleneden Beach

Instrumentalists and vocalists are welcome to sit in. 4-6 pm at Salishan, 7755 N. Highway 101, 541-234-4013.

Mike Tolle

Luna Sea at Seal Rock

Acoustic folk blues. 5-7:30 pm, 10111 NW Pacific Coast Hwy., Seal Rock, 541-563-5862.

Tex Brooklyn Experiment

The Drift Inn • Yachats

Enjoy original songs, old standards, unique arrangements, requests and fun from Bill Stiffler on bass, Morgen Silverhorn

Eli Young Band • Saturday, Feb. 1, in Lincoln City

soundwaves

on horns, and Robert “Tex Brooklyn” Rubin on piano and accordion. 6-8:30 pm, 124 Hwy. 101 N., 541-547-4477.

Karaoke

Zeller’s Bar & Grill

• Lincoln City

8:30 pm-12:30 am, 1643 Hwy. 101, 541-994-8100.

Karaoke

Snug Harbor Bar & Grill

• Lincoln City

Hosted by Doctor B. 8:30 pm-midnight, 5001 SW Hwy. 101.

Monday, Feb. 3

Dave Hill

Oshen’s Restaurant • Gleneden Beach

Vocals and acoustic guitar featuring music of singersongwriters of the ’60s, ’70s, ’80s and more. 6-8 pm in the Salishan Marketplace, 7755 N Hwy. 101, 541-764-9026.

John & Mr. Spark

The Drift Inn • Yachats

Eclectic music with beautifully blended harmonies. 6-8:30 pm, 124 Highway 101 North, 541-547-4477.

Karaoke

Zeller’s Bar & Grill • Lincoln City

8:30 pm-12:30 am, 1643 Hwy. 101, 541-994-8100.

Tuesday, Feb. 4

Linda Yapp

Zurita in Nye Beach • Newport

Mellow acoustic classics and easy listening to dine by. 5:308 pm, 711 NW 2nd Court, 541-272-5078.

John Bringetto Duo

The Drift Inn • Yachats

Latin classics and jazz standards. 6-8:30 pm, 124 Hwy. 101 N., 541-547-4477.

Lincoln City Bluegrass Jam

Eagles Lodge • Lincoln City

Classic and contemporary bluegrass, old-time Americana and country music. All welcome. 6-8 pm, 737 SW 32nd Street.

Jam Session

Wing Wa Taphouse • Depoe Bay

Open mic jam session. All musicians welcome. 8 pm-close, 330 US-101, 541-765-2288.

Karaoke

Zeller’s Bar & Grill • Lincoln City

8:30 pm-12:30 am, 1643 Hwy. 101, 541-994-8100.

Wednesday, Feb. 5

Live Music Wednesdays

Salishan Coastal Lodge • Gleneden Beach

Enjoy an acoustic set from Cosacchi on the outdoor patio of the Attic Lounge, weather permitting. 5-7 pm, 7760 Hwy. 101.

Harlan Rivers Band

The Drift Inn • Yachats

Americana with country roots and a little rock and roll. 6-8:30 pm, 124 Highway 101 North, 541-547-4477.

Karaoke

Zeller’s Bar & Grill • Lincoln City

8:30 pm-12:30 am, 1643 Hwy. 101, 541-994-8100.

SPECIAL THANKS FROM TRACEY TAYLOR TO MY PARTNER IN LIFE, CHRISTIE; TO MY BUSINESS PARTNERS, JEROME, LILA & GITL; TO OUR LOCATION PARTNERS, LINCOLN CITY OUTLETS; TO OUR INSTRUCTORS, STEPHANIE, CHERYL, JEWEL, ANNIKA, MATT, KELLY, JOANNE & SARAH; TO MY FAMILY FOR ALWAYS STEPPING IN, SAM, ARIEL, AUSTIN, TAYLOR, JOSIAH, HANNAH, ERIKA & NICOLE

Ready for a big night?

No shortage of talent at MINI KISS concert

Gretchen Ammerman Oregon Coast TODAY

The year was 1995, and the juggernaut that is the tribute band was still in its infancy.

A concert promoter got the idea to use little people to form a KISS tribute band and name it MINI KISS. For years, it was composed of a rotating number of members, mostly actors, who lip synced to the music and pretended to play their instruments.

Arturo Knight saw an ad on Craigslist that was seeking little people to fill in for shows near his home in Texas and joined the group after it had been around for decades.

“I didn’t find out until later that MINI KISS was a gimmick,” he said. “It was mostly just people wanting to see little people. Everything was fake.”

Knight, who has been a musician since the age of eight, was confused by the idea that he was just supposed to stand there and fake the music.

“When I joined the band, I told the manager, ‘I can sing the songs, I don’t need to lip sync and I know how to play the bass and guitar’ and he basically told me to shut up and do my job.”

During the pandemic, the original creator of MINI KISS died and left the business to his brother, who had no interest in keeping things going, so he offered Knight the chance to buy him out. And that’s when MINI KISS became a true band.

“Ninety-nine point nine percent of work for little people is what we call ‘sell your soul’ work,” said Knight, who hits the stage as Mini Paul Stanley. “There is not one well-known musician that is a little person because it’s not easy, but we are all musicians. We are now going on three years with the same members and most people don’t even care about our size because we create such a real experience of seeing the original band. I’ve grown into the character more and more and our shows are the real deal. Our miniGene breathes fire and spits fake blood.”

Gone are the days of being incorrectly introduced by a television host as “Baby KISS.” Now, Knight and the group are living their best lives.

“I never thought I would be getting paid to play outside of America,” he said. “Being in this band has given me things I never thought I would have in my life.”

a world record? We have also opened for Snoop Dog, Machine Gun Kelly and many more amazing artists. We are doing things that my younger self could not have even imagined.”

Over the years, members of KISS have been supportive of their most consistent tribute group.

“We’ve met them multiple times, and some members show up at our shows,” Knight said. “Gene [Simmons] supports us on social media. We are even doing a show in Washington with the Gene Simmons Band next month.”

MINI KISS will play at the Newport Performing Arts Center from 7:30 to 9:30 pm on Friday, Feb.7. Tickets are $27 to $37. The center is located at 777 W Olive Street. For more information, go to coastarts.org or call 541265-2787.

A Guinness world record two years ago for “World’s Shortest Band” was another positive experience.

“They flew us out to Milan to get the award,” Knight said. “It was amazing. People ask if it bothers me that the award was for our size and I tell them, “When was the last time you were flown to Italy to accept an award for

Increasingly, primarily outside of the United States, the group is having the true rock and roll experience.

“Fans show up at the airport and hotels in makeup and costumes,” Knight said. “They treat us like we are the band. Especially since they don’t tour anymore.”

From kitsch to real careers, Knight said that MINI KISS is “the most blessed thing we could ask for.”

“Even if people come to laugh at us, the band just keeps getting bigger, giving us more freedom to have these amazing experiences.”

Knight finished the interview by making me laugh on purpose:

“We’re like getting the real band,” he said. “Just half off.”

SUDOKU is a number-placing puzzle based on a 9x9 grid with several given numbers. The object is to place the numbers 1 to 9 in the empty squares so that each row, each column and each 3x3 box contains the same number only once. King Features

SUPER QUIZ

Take this Super Quiz to a Ph.D. Score 1 point for each correct answer on the Freshman Level, 2 points on the Graduate Level and 3 points on the Ph.D. Level.

Subject: ANIMAL IN THE MIDDLE

Provide one common five-letter word with the given animal’s name in the middle. Alternate answers may be possible. (e.g., Ewe. Answer: Sewer, fewer, newer, jewel.)

Last Week’s Answers:

ANSWERS:

1. Wrath, crate, irate, grate, brats. 2. Lowly, bowls, howls, jowls. 3. Frame, drama, tramp, cramp, grams. 4. Feels, heels, reels, peels, keels.

Paper, tapes, raped, taper, taped. 6. Wants, Santa, pants, canto, Bantu. 7. Abate. 8. Scowl, scows. 9. Femur, lemur.

concert

Hear some high-grade performers

Educators take to the stage for Spotlight on the Teachers

Music teachers from across Lincoln County will be earning extra credit when they step on stage for the latest Spotlight on the Teachers concert this Sunday, Feb. 2.

This year’s concert, “The Joy of Music” will be presented at the Newport Performing Arts Center, performed by members of the Lincoln County District of the Oregon Music Teachers Association and their guests.

“The concert series has been a part of the Oregon Coast calendar for over 25 years and this year we have made a major shift to only one concert a year,” said Jessie Treon, one of the originators of the concert series. “This new concert will include music in any style, classical, popular, jazz, show tunes or rock and roll, whatever gives each performer enough joy to perform it. Our performers have always chosen their own pieces giving the program a new twist at every show.”

for lessons, books or festival fees. The fund has also contributed to other local music programs such as the Newport Symphony Orchestra Youth Symphony and music programs within other programs such as Neighbors for Kids.

Over the years, the concerts have always had an element of surprise. Seasoned veterans this year include Ramona Goddard, Ginger Hodge, Donna Olson, Jessie Treon and Rita Warton. Concert guests include well-known faces and new ones, including pianists Carol Wolfe and Milo Graamans, cellist Charmaine Leclair, singer Gidget Manucci and a new vocal group, Sea Star Sisters.

“By opening to all styles of music we have ended up with composers from Bach to Rachmaninoff to Freddie Mercury,” said Rita Warton, district treasurer. “It will be dynamic, interesting, and, as always, a fun afternoon.”

The concert is a benefit for the association’s scholarship fund, used to support students who have trouble paying

Sunday’s concert begins at 2 pm at 777 W. Olive Street. For more information, go to omta-lincolncounty.org or call 541961-0959.

Jessie Treon

Charmaine Leclair and Ramona Goddard

Jim Erickson

Tillamook Bay, Garibaldi Date

Siletz Bay, Lincoln City Date

Feb. 6 2:07 pm 0.3 6:05 am 7.1 8:35 pm 4.5

Yaquina Bay, Newport

Date Low Tides High Tides

Thurs., Jan. 30 6:18 am 3.1 7:06 pm -1.2 1:13 am 7.7 12:14 pm 9.6 Fri., Jan. 31 7:07 am 2.7 7:42 pm -0.8 1:45 am 8.1 1:01 pm 9.3 Sat., Feb. 1 7:58 am 2.2 8:18 pm -0.1 2:18 am 8.5 1:52 pm 8.7 Sun., Feb. 2 8:53 am 1.8 8:55 pm 0.8 2:53 am 8.8 2:47 pm 7.8 Mon., Feb. 3 9:53 am 1.4 9:35 pm 1.8 3:30 am 9.1 3:51 pm 7.0 Tues., Feb. 4 11:00 am 1.1 10:19 pm 2.8 4:12 am 9.2 5:09 pm 6.2 Wed., Feb. 5 12:13 pm 0.8 11:15 pm 3.6 4:59 am 9.2 6:45 pm 5.8 Thurs., Feb. 6 1:29 pm 0.4 5:56 am 9.2 8:26 pm 5.9

Alsea Bay, Waldport

Date Low Tides High Tides

Thurs., Jan. 30 7:15 am 2.8

Feb.

Nearly Dan

potpourri

Bird lovers flock to library

Since its inception as a chapter of the National Audubon Society in November of 2005, the newly renamed Seven Capes Bird Alliance is as active as ever, with regular bird walks, educational talks and fun networking events.

The group is actively seeking new volunteers, and is hosting an introduction to volunteer opportunities at Driftwood Public Library in Lincoln City on Tuesday, Feb. 4.

The event will include volunteer training and presentations about bird walks, classroom education for kids and

adults and senior citizen outreach.

The Seven Capes education team is a fun bunch of people, and participating as a volunteer is a great way to learn more about birds and wildlife, meet new people and learn a new skill.

The event begins at 1 pm at Driftwood Public Library, located at 801 SE Hwy. 101 in Lincoln City. For more information and to confirm attendance, email Nora Sherwood at noras@sevencapes.org or go to sevencapes.org.

Tax time can rough, but the AARP foundation wants to help make it a bit smoother for Oregon residents with free tax assistance for anyone, with a focus on taxpayers who are more than 50 years old and have low-to-moderate income.

Appointments will be available at Driftwood Public Library in Lincoln City on Mondays from Feb. 3 through April 7 and at the Waldport Community Center on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays beginning Monday, Feb. 5.

You don’t need to be a member of the foundation to use the service.

Since 1968, Tax-Aide has helped more than 80 million taxpayers receive all the credits and deductions they are entitled to. Volunteers are IRS-certified

every year, so they understand the latest changes and additions to the tax code. In order to serve the largest number of taxpayers, there are some scope limitations.

Services at Driftwood Public Library are available from 11 am to 5 pm by appointment only. To make an appointment, go to aarp.org/money/ taxes or call 541-669-0006.

Appointments at the Waldport Community Center are walk-in only. The center, located at 265 NW Hemlock Street, will be open from 1 to 4 pm on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. For more information, call 541-6690079.

Thank you

Rudy & Thea Sanchez

Kimberly Hancher

Keith Altomare

Sandra Gruber

Barbara & Michael Tomlinson

Jeremy Carnahan

Steve & Jeanne Sprague

Dave & Niki Price

Stephanie Schmieding

Cindy & Doug Force

Oregon Coast TODAY is proudly owned right here on the Central Oregon Coast.

Our commitment to showcasing the beauty of this area, and all its vibrant happenings, spurred our 2020 decision to bring the paper back into local ownership.

It was a big decision, but we weren’t in it alone. The members of Team TODAY have

Georgia Roelof

Majalise Tolan

Hugh & Lillys Price

Susan Wahlke

Kari Williams

Heather Hatton

Dennis & Carol Civiello

Linda Aguirre

Beth & Dave Wagner

Greg & Rosanne Berton

Larayne Higgins

Stan Kleweno

Joyce Schwer

Toija Beutler

Gerry Stavney

Gillian Hearst

Ross Smith

Sara Schreiber

Mark Miranda

Are you next?

owned media

been with us every step of the way, helping us pay the bills and keep our publication relevant in a fast-changing world.

By joining Team TODAY, you can help us fulfill our mission to be the go-to source for locals and visitors who want to have fun at the beach.

In return for a monthly $20 contribution,

members get an invite to our private Team TODAY Facebook page, where we seek feedback on everything from what photo to put on the cover to which pun to run in the headline.

Members also receive great merchandise, access to exclusive events and special deals. Join the Team, today! To

Creativity blooms in Toledo

Artists offer a warm welcome at February First Weekend

With spring right around the corner, the town of Toledo is preparing for the new season with First Weekend this Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 1 and 2.

This monthly art event sees galleries and studios throughout town throw open their doors to the public.

The Yaquina River Museum of Art will open its new exhibit, The Founders Celebration, featuring works by the late founder Michael Gibbons, including pieces painted and sketched during his time in England. Gibbons stayed for almost a year in the Cotswolds, creating art and working with many artist groups in the area. Without a car in rural Winchcombe, Gibbons used footpaths throughout the countryside. “Along the Pilgrim’s Way” is an original oil that captures the artist’s time in the English countryside along the footpaths.

Throughout First Weekend, the museum will be featuring rare film from Gibbons’ feature on OPB’s Oregon Art Beat, and offering complimentary cake and champagne to gallery-goers.

The Yaquina River Museum of Art, located at 151 NE Alder Street, will be open from noon to 4 pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. For more information, go to www. yaquinarivermuseumofart.com or call 541-336-1907.

Across the street at Michael Gibbons’ Signature Gallery, guests can view “Grace’s Garden,” an original oil that captures the beauty of a summer garden with full-bloom rhododendrons and an intriguing pathway leading the viewer into a pacific wildflower forest. Gibbons found beauty in every nook and cranny of

Toledo. He liked to work near his home on NE Alder Street and found an exquisite garden created by Grace Ross, of pioneer family stock descending from Toledo founder John Graham. She could be found planting and growing 50 azaleas and as many rhododendrons as she could find from scratch simply because she loved to garden.

See this work and many more originals at Michael Gibbons’ Signature Gallery, located at 140 NE Alder Street, open from noon to 4 pm on Saturday and Sunday. For more information, go to michaelgibbons. net or call 541-336-2797.

On Main Street, Crow’s Nest Gallery & Studio will feature the works of more than 20 artists. The gallery-space run by assemblage artist Janet Runger always features new and exciting works for viewers to see. Veta Bakhtina’s prolific portfolio of works enchant viewers into her world of storied paintings. “The Chapel,” a fine gouache work of a scene in the Balkans, is demonstrative of her ability to capture the world in vivid color with her trademark elements of folk art. Val Bolen will be featuring suncatching glass and ceramic works; Alice Haga, fused glass; Sylvia Hosie, award winning photography; Paula Teplitz, sculptural jellyfish mobiles; Jeff Gibford, digitally manipulated photographs; Tish Epperson, watercolors; and Susan Jones, woven fiber jellyfish.

Crow’s Nest Gallery & Studio is located at 305 N. Main Street and open from 10 am to 5 pm on Saturday and Sunday.