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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19, 2025

Brookings, Oregon

Local Archer

Aims for National Competition, Credits 4-H BY LINDA LEE

Curry Coastal Pilot

Isaiah Hodges, a 15-year-old archer from Brookings, has his sights set on the National 4-H Shooting Sports Championships in Grand Island, Nebraska this June. This will be his ﬁrst time competing at the national level after qualifying last year at the state competition. Hodges, a member of the Brookings Livestock and Shooting Sports 4-H club, has been practicing archery for four years. He’s been attending the state competition for the past three years and is excited about the opportunity of competing nationally. “Shooting the bow and meeting people are my favorite parts of the sport,” Hodges said. He practices daily, sometimes for just 15-20 minutes and other times for an hour or more when

It Takes Practice: Isaiah Hodges (l) during the International Federation of Archery (FITA) archery competition at State.

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practicing at longer distances. “I’ve learned a lot from my coaches and teammates,” Hodges said. “They’ve helped me improve my skills and conﬁdence.” To help cover the estimated $8,000 cost of attending the national competition, Hodges and his coach, Matt Thompson, are actively fundraising. They’ve raised approximately $2,000 so far through candy bar sales and are hoping to secure additional support from local organizations like the Working Hunters Association and the local 4-H Association. “We’re grateful for the support we’ve received so far,” Thompson said. “We’re hoping to raise enough money to cover the cost of the trip, but if we don’t, we’ll ﬁnd a way to make it happen.” Hodges credits archery with teaching him valuable life skills Please see ARCHER Page 3

Sidewalk & Bike Route Upgrades Begin BY LINDA LEE

Curry Coastal Pilot

After a comprehensive four-year planning process, the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is launching a series of projects aimed at enhancing safety, accessibility and an overall better experience for cyclists and pedestrians along the iconic Oregon Coast Bike Route (OCBR). The culmination of the Oregon Coast Bike Route Plan, adopted in 2022, is now translating into tangible improvements, with construction commencing in Brookings this month. Designated in the 1980s, the OCBR, a 370-mile route along U.S. 101, attracts an estimated 6,000 to 10,000 cyclists annually; however, evolving bicycle infrastructure standards and the surge in bike tourism prompted ODOT to initiate a planning effort in 2018. The planning process, which involved collaboration with

Safety First: Bicyclist in Gold Beach adhere to the safety of staying on the bike path.

Please see HWY 101 Page 3

Brookings Got Talent Coming to the Azalea Festival PRESS RELEASE The picturesque Southern Oregon coast is set to buzz with activity on Memorial Day weekend, as the annual Azalea Festival returns, promising a blend of tradition and fresh entertainment. From May 23rd to 25th, visitors are invited to "Expect the UnExpected!" at this beloved event, an "Oregon Heritage Tradition" award recipient. The festival kicks off Friday night with a lively Dance Party in Azalea Park, setting the stage for a weekend packed with festivities. Saturday morning will feature the time-honored Azalea Festival Parade, winding its way through downtown Brookings, followed by a bustling Street Market Fair and afternoon concerts back in Azalea Park. This year, the festival introduces a new highlight: "Brookings Got Talent," a family-friendly showcase

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of local talent slated for Sunday in Azalea Park. Organizers are calling on singers, dancers, magicians, comedians and performers of all stripes to share their skills with the community. The talent show will feature cash prizes for ﬁrst, second, and third place winners in both the 12 and under and 13 and older age groups. An overall People's Choice award will also be presented, allowing the audience to crown their favorite act. Interested performers are encouraged to visit the Azalea Festival website, azaleafestivalbrookingsoregon. com, and click the "More" tab for detailed information and application forms. The application deadline is May 5th. The Azalea Festival, a long-standing celebration of the region's natural beauty, promises a weekend of entertainment and community spirit. For inquiries, contact the festival at 541-469-1102.

Phone Number: 541-813-1717 • Address: 519 Chetco Avenue, Unit 7, Brookings, OR 97415 • Email: Circulation@CountryMedia.net

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