Police Investigate Overnight Thefts from Mailboxes, Vehicles in Newberg
NEWBERG, Ore. — The Newberg-Dundee Police Department is investigating multiple overnight thefts involving mailboxes and vehicles in several south Newberg neighborhoods.
Police said areas along South Ninth Street, South Dayton Avenue, and South Pennington Drive have been identified as impacted.
Officers have recovered mail belonging to several residences, as well as key lock boxes believed to have been taken from the front doors of homes.
Police are asking residents who believe they may be victims of vehicle break-ins, mail theft, or missing lock boxes to contact Newberg-Dundee Dispatch at the nonemergency number, 503-538-8321.
Officials said each affected resident should file an individual report, even if similar activity has already been reported by neighbors, to help officers document the full scope of the incident.
Police also said comments or messages on social media do not constitute an official report, and residents must contact dispatch by phone to ensure the incident is documented and investigated.
NPAC Launches Community Survey to Guide Public Art Planning in Newberg
NEWBERG, Ore. — The Newberg Public Art Council has launched a community survey to gather public input as part of its strategic planning process.
The survey asks residents to share their perspectives on public art in Newberg and their awareness of the commission’s work. Officials said the feedback will help guide priorities and future projects.
The commission began working together formally three years ago and is using the survey to reassess its direction and identify community priorities.
The survey does not have a firm deadline, though organizers hope to conclude the process by mid-March, depending on participation levels. It is available online at forms.gle/NnCgjsPCYRz6Txns8.
The commission is also planning additional public art efforts. A public meeting for the Camellia Trail project is scheduled from 5 to 6 p.m. on March 18 in the Chehalem Cultural Center lobby. The meeting is required as part of the project process and is open to the public.
Officials said the “Mouse” public art installation has an approved location and is awaiting placement in coordination with the city’s ADA improvement work.
The Newberg Public Art Council advises on public art projects and works to expand arts access and engagement throughout the community.
Oregon Bed & Breakfast Guild Rebrands as Oregon Association of Independent Inns
PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon’s statewide organization representing independently owned lodging properties has announced a new name and visual identity.
Formerly known as the Oregon Bed & Breakfast Guild, the organization is now the Oregon Association of Independent Inns. Officials said the change reflects the evolving landscape of independent lodging across the state.
The rebrand includes a new logo and expanded identity intended to represent a broader range of independently owned properties, including traditional bed and breakfasts, inns that offer breakfast, and lodging establishments that do not.
“Independent lodging in Oregon has grown more diverse, while the values that define great hospitality have remained constant,” association President Sue Stein said in a statement. “Our new name and logo allow us to welcome a broader range of high-quality independent properties while staying true to the standards our members and travelers trust.”
The association provides promotion, education, and networking opportunities for its members. Its online directory encourages direct bookings without commissions, and members have access to regional meetings and an annual conference.
To support the transition, the association is waiving application and inspection fees for qualifying independent inns through April 30. Its annual conference is scheduled for Nov. 16–17.
More information about the association and membership is available at oregoninns.com.
Newberg Christian Preschool transitions to Northwest Early Learning Academy
NEWBERG, Ore. — Northwest Christian Church has announced the transition of its longtime Newberg Christian Preschool into Northwest Early Learning Academy.
Church officials said the preschool has served families in Newberg for more than 30 years and will continue operating with the same focus on preschool education in a faith-centered environment.
The new academy will expand its offerings to include childcare services, additional class options, and extended hours to better serve local families.
Officials said the expansion comes as Yamhill County and Oregon are designated as childcare deserts, with limited access to childcare services.
The project is a collaboration between Northwest Christian Church, A-dec, and George Fox University, with support from local and state leaders.
Read: A-dec, George Fox, NCC Partner to Open Newberg Childcare Center
Registration for Northwest Early Learning Academy will open to the public on April 6. Additional information is available by contacting the academy board chairman and pastor Scott Curtis at scott@mynw.cc.
