CCP423 by C.M.I.

SERVING CURRY COUNTY SINCE 1946 www.currypilot.com

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23, 2025

Brookings, Oregon

Azalea Princesses Vie for Scholarships in

86th Annual Pageant

BY LINDA LEE

Curry Coastal Pilot

Young women are preparing to take the stage for the 86th annual Azalea Festival Scholarship Pageant where they will compete for a share of nearly $12,000 in scholarship money. The Azalea Court will showcase their talents, poise and community involvement on Saturday, May 3rd at 6:00 p.m. at the Brookings Elks Lodge. Each of the young women participating in the Azalea Court is guaranteed to receive at least a $1,000 scholarship, highlighting the pageant's commitment to supporting the educational aspirations of these community-minded individuals. The journey to the pageant stage has been a lengthy one, with the Azalea Princesses dedicating their time since November to volunteering throughout the community. Their commitment to service has seen them actively involved in various local initiatives, including lending a hand at events such as the Soroptimist's annual tea fundraiser. Recently, the princesses also shared a fun afternoon of crafts and snacks with the Junior Princesses, fostering a spirit of mentorship and community engagement.

Please see PAGEANT Page 10

Rural Oregon Celebrates Landmark Connectivity Milestone

5,000 Customer Event: Joe Pestana and Family celebrate with Beacon Broadband

PRESS RELEASE A technological revolution is sweeping across Oregon's rural south coast, as Beacon Broadband announced it has connected its 5,000th customer, marking a significant step in bridging the digital divide. The milestone, celebrated on Thursday, March 20th in Port Orford, signifies more than just a number; it represents a tangible transformation for communities long overlooked by major internet providers. Beacon Broadband, an initiative of Coos-Curry Electric Cooperative, began its mission in 2020 with a vision to bring high-speed fiber internet to the region. The network now spans from Brookings through Gold Beach, Port Orford, and recently into Langlois, with further expansion planned. The 5,000th connection holds particular significance. Joe Pestano, residing in Sixes, Oregon, now enjoys state-of-the-art fiber connectivity at a home that first received electricity from the same cooperative approximately eighty years ago. This connection highlights the cooperative's long-standing commitment to bringing vital services to the area. "What we've accomplished in just a few years is truly remarkable," stated Bill Gerski, Vice Presi-

INDEX

dent of Marketing & Sales for Beacon Broadband. He emphasized the company's commitment to delivering symmetrical speeds, local customer service, and a "price for life" guarantee. Community leaders and partners gathered at Mister Ed's in Port Orford to celebrate the achievement. Brent Bischoff, recognized for his instrumental role in the project's success, acknowledged the community's support. "This milestone belongs to our entire community," Bischoff said, highlighting the transformative impact of the network on the region's economic prosperity. The event also spotlighted Beacon Broadband's award-winning Connected Senior Program, addressing the digital divide among older residents. The program provides digital literacy training, empowering seniors to fully participate in the online world. Beacon Broadband's efforts are opening doors to telehealth, remote work, education, and economic opportunities previously unattainable in these rural areas. The company's continued expansion aims to ensure that geographical location no longer limits access to world-class connectivity. For more information or to sign up for service, visit www.beaconbroadband.com.

Curry County Boosts Lodging Tax to Fuel Tourism Growth BY LINDA LEE

Curry Coastal Pilot

Curry County has announced a significant increase in its Transient Lodging Tax (TLT), raising the rate from seven to ten percent effective July 1st. The Curry County Board of Commissioners formalized the change with the adoption of Ordinance No. 25-01, signaling a commitment to bolstering the region's tourism infrastructure and promotional efforts. County officials stated that all revenue generated from both the existing and the increased tax will continue to be allocated according to Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) 320.350(6), ensuring funds are dedicated to tourism promotion and the development of tourism-related facilities. The increase underscores the county's ongoing investment in its vital tourism sector. The newly generated funds will be managed by the Curry County Economic Development Department, which will launch a new grant program called "Curry's Destination Development Fund" in the fiscal year 2026. This program aims to support tourism-related businesses through two key avenues: • Infrastructure Improvements: Providing financial assistance for enhancing physical spaces such as visitor amenities, signage, trail systems and other crucial tourism facilities. • Advertising Support: Helping businesses expand their marketing reach to attract both new and returning visitors to the county. Miranda Plagge, the Curry County Economic Development Administrator, expressed enthusiasm for the potential impact of the tax increase. "This increase will empower

us to invest directly in the success of our tourism economy," Plagge stated. "From improving trail access and signage to supporting small business marketing efforts, these funds will create tangible benefits for both visitors and residents." The decision to increase the TLT aligns with the long-term objectives outlined in Curry County's Destination Strategy. This strategy emphasizes the importance of enhancing infrastructure, promoting year-round visitation and fostering strategic partnerships within the tourism industry. County officials believe that improvements to tourism-related infrastructure will not only enhance the visitor experience but also contribute to the overall quality of life for local residents by providing better facilities, safer environments and a more resilient local economy. Future investments made possible by the increased TLT revenue may include upgrades to restrooms, trailheads, signage, electric vehicle charging stations and the development of ADA-accessible features that benefit both tourists and the local community. The Economic Development Department has pledged to share detailed information with all lodging operators in advance to ensure a smooth transition; additionally, informational sessions will be hosted in the coming months to prepare businesses for the rollout of the Curry's Destination Development Fund grant program in 2026. Lodging operators and tourism-related businesses seeking more information about the TLT increase, the implementation timeline, or the upcoming grant program are encouraged to contact the Curry County Economic Development Department.

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

Calendar of Events Police Blotter

Classifieds Crossword Answer Crossword Puzzle