City Invites Youth to Help Name New Street Sweeper

NEWBERG, Ore. — The City of Newberg is calling on its youngest residents to help name its newest street sweeper.

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Middle school-aged children and younger can submit name ideas at the Newberg Public Library through the month of November. The contest encourages creative, funny, or clever submissions.

After the submission period closes, city staff will select five finalists. The public will then have the opportunity to vote for their favorite name in December through an online form.

Public Works Director Russ Thomas launched the contest to mark the arrival of a new gas-powered street sweeper, which will work alongside the city’s electric sweeper, “Sweeping Beauty.” That name was chosen last year by local students Georgia and Eleanor in a similar contest.

Thomas said the naming contests are a fun way to highlight the Public Works Department’s role in keeping Newberg clean.

For more information, residents can visit the library or email library@newbergoregon.gov. Questions about the new sweeper can be directed to russ.thomas@newbergoregon.gov.

Friendsview Auction Raises More Than $25,000 for Employee Scholarships

NEWBERG, Ore. — The Friendsview retirement community raised $25,541 for its Employee Scholarship Fund during its annual fall auction, thanks to donations from Newberg merchants and residents.

The event, organized by resident volunteers, supports employees pursuing educational and professional development goals, including degrees and certifications such as CNA, CMA, LPN, and MSW programs.

Barb and Arnie Mitchell of the Friendsview Special Events Committee thanked community members and local businesses for their generosity, noting that both residents and staff deeply appreciate the support.

Sidewalk Construction in Downtown Newberg Related to ODOT ADA Curb Ramp Upgrades

NEWBERG, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Transportation has begun work upgrading and installing Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) curb ramps throughout Newberg to improve accessibility for all pedestrians.

Crews are reviewing roughly 408 curb ramps in the Newberg area to determine what updates are needed to meet current ADA standards. Work may include minor adjustments, adding safety signs, or rebuilding ramps entirely. Most corners will require only minor improvements, while some will need full reconstruction.

Construction is primarily scheduled during the day, Monday through Thursday, with occasional night or Friday work as needed. Drivers may encounter lane shifts, shoulder and lane closures, and flaggers directing traffic. Businesses near construction sites will remain open. Residents are reminded that fines double in all Oregon work zones.

ADA curb ramps provide access between sidewalks and roads for people using wheelchairs, strollers, walkers, bicycles, and other mobility devices. They also improve safety for all pedestrians by gently sloping curbs and installing textured plates, or truncated domes, to indicate street crossings.

ODOT encourages drivers and pedestrians to watch for workers, follow traffic signs, and use caution around work zones. Updates and an interactive map of project locations are available online through the ODOT website.

Newberg to Host Special Olympics Oregon Swimming Regionals

NEWBERG, Ore. — Newberg will host the Special Olympics Oregon Swimming Regionals on Saturday, Nov. 8, at the CPRD Aquatic Center.

Athletes from Benton, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Polk, and Yamhill counties will compete for a spot at the state competition. Spectators are invited to cheer on the swimmers and celebrate their dedication and hard work.

The Yamhill County team received support this year from a grant by the Austin Family, which helped provide new swim parkas for athletes to stay warm between heats.

Volunteer opportunities are still available for community members interested in helping during the event.