10/23/2026
MAYOR'S MESSAGE
Working Together for a Stronger Community
One of the greatest strengths of our community is the willingness of individuals, businesses, and organizations to come together for a common purpose. Whether supporting economic development, preparing our future workforce, or helping neighbors in need, collaboration continues to make a meaningful difference throughout Coos Bay.
At the October 20 City Council meeting, Bay Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Rosey Thomas provided an update on the Chamber's activities and partnerships. I would first like to congratulate Rosey on being named Emerging Executive of the Year by the Oregon State Chamber of Commerce. This recognition is a wonderful acknowledgment of her dedication to strengthening our business community.
Rosey shared that the Chamber celebrated its 46th anniversary this year. Formed through the merger of the Coos Bay, North Bend, and Charleston chambers, the organization continues to provide a unified voice for businesses throughout our area. With just two paid staff members, Rosey and Jolene, the Chamber relies on an active board of directors, eight committees, and numerous volunteers to accomplish its work.
One particularly encouraging development is the revival of the Chamber's Education and Workforce Committee. Working with the Southern Oregon Workforce Investment Board, the Chamber has welcomed Natasha Garrison as committee chair and is strengthening partnerships with CCD Business Development Corporation, the Small Business Development Center, the South Coast Development Council, and other economic development organizations.
By participating in one another's committees and coordinating their efforts, these partners are finding ways to better connect education, workforce training, and business needs. An upcoming Career and Technical Education dinner on October 28 will bring educators and industry leaders together to discuss workforce opportunities and strengthen those connections.
That same spirit of collaboration is evident in Empty Bowls Coos County, an event that brings together local artists, restaurants, businesses, and volunteers to help address hunger in our community.
The October 24 event, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Oregon Coast Culinary Institute on the Southwestern Oregon Community College campus, is made possible entirely through donations and sponsorships secured before the doors open. Organizers report that proceeds from the event will benefit South Coast Food Share (95%) and Southwestern's on-campus food pantry (5%).
Each contribution, whether it is a bowl crafted by hand, a pot of soup, donated supplies, financial support, or volunteer time, represents someone choosing to make a difference. Together, those contributions create an event that benefits our neighbors experiencing food insecurity.
Empty Bowls Coos County has been sharing a wonderful series of Facebook posts recognizing the many individuals, businesses, and organizations who have contributed to this effort. I encourage everyone to visit the Empty Bowls Coos County page to enjoy the beautiful photographs, learn more about the generous community partners, and see firsthand the creativity and collaboration behind this special event.
Looking ahead, the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce will host its Economic Outlook Forum on December 11, providing another opportunity for businesses, community organizations, and regional leaders to come together and discuss the future of our local economy.
From workforce development to community hunger relief, these efforts demonstrate what is possible when we share resources, combine our talents, and work toward common goals. No single person or organization can accomplish everything alone, but together we can make a lasting difference.
Community collaboration is more than a good idea. It is one of the things that makes Coos Bay a special place to live, work, and call home.
-Joe Benetti, Mayor of Coos Bay
