Elizabeth O’Neal, an IRS employee, attends a town hall held by Oregon Democratic legislators at the Federal Building in Portland, Ore., March 17, 2025. The event aimed to provide an opportunity for federal employees to talk about the impact of layoffs in the federal government.
Kristyna Wentz-Graff / OPB
Current and former federal staffers joined Oregon Democrats in a town hall in Portland on Monday, saying President Donald Trump’s efforts to shrink the federal government presents risks to Oregon life, potentially harming how the state responds to wildfires, preserves its natural resources and cares for veterans.
Dozens of attendees packed into the cafeteria of a federal building in Northeast Portland, filling up rows of seats and standing around the edges of the room. Many focused their ire on the mass firings by Trump and his billionaire partner, Elon Musk, who leads the administration’s cost-cutting initiative called the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE.
Shawn McMurtrey, a disabled combat veteran who was recently fired from his job in the U.S. Department of Agriculture, speaks to legislators during a town hall in Portland, Ore., March 17, 2025.
Kristyna Wentz-Graff / OPB
“This is not the America I swore an oath to protect,” said Shawn McMurtrey, a disabled combat veteran who served in the U.S. Army in Iraq and Afghanistan and was recently fired from his job in the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Monday’s was the latest in a series of packed town halls that have occurred across Oregon since Trump’s second term began less than two months ago. In that time, firings have hit regional employers like the U.S. Forest Service, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Bonneville Power Administration — agencies that impact Oregonians’ lives, maintaining public lands, predicting the weather and keeping residents’ lights on.
“We have a department in the federal government now that is supposed to be concerned with efficiency, and government efficiency, but from what I’ve seen it’s more of an agency of chaos,” said Craig Ackerman, the former superintendent of Crater Lake National Park, Ywho retired in October and moderated the town hall.
Six of Oregon’s eight members of congress attended Monday’s town hall, and so did Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield. Newly-elected U.S. Rep. Janelle Bynum had a previous commitment and did not attend.
In recent weeks, members of the delegation have faced pushback from town hall attendees who have accused the national Democratic party of being slow and disunified in its response to Trump’s barrage of new policies.
“I can feel the anger. I can feel the frustration,” said U.S. Rep. Maxine Dexter. “I know we are not giving answers that are satisfactory.”
Republicans like U.S. Rep. Cliff Bentz, who represents much of rural eastern and southern Oregon, say the cuts are necessary to shrink government spending and eliminate national debt. Bentz was not invited to attend the town hall.
Oregon Democrats say the administration is cutting jobs that are critical to the lives and safety of Oregonians.
(Left to right) Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield, U.S. Rep. Maxine Dexter, U.S. Sens. Jeff Merkely and Ron Wyden, U.S. Reps. Val Hoyle, Andrea Salinas and Suzanne Bonamici, during a town hall held at the Federal Building in Portland, Ore., March 17, 2025. The event aimed to provide an opportunity for federal employees to talk about the impact of layoffs in the federal government.
Kristyna Wentz-Graff / OPB
“It is as clear as Crater Lake that Trump and Musk and their cronies are indiscriminately attacking your ability to serve publicly and are illegally firing many of you,” said Sen. Ron Wyden, the senior member of Oregon’s congressional delegation, who emphasized the importance of federal employees blowing the whistle when they see the government acting illegally.
Among those fired was McMurtrey. As a government scientist, his job was to help prevent fungal diseases from killing pears in Oregon, the nation’s second leading producer of pears. McMurtrey said his government salary wasn’t enough to afford to live where he worked, in Hood River, forcing him to sometimes sleep in a lab or his car when he’d commute to work from Portland.
“It is partially thanks to this research that you can buy pears all year round at the grocery store,” said McMurtrey, speaking from a table at the front of the room. He added, “I am not a waste of money.”
Federal workers – some of whom remain employed – said Monday that the mass firings have upended their lives, impacting their retirements, health insurance, loan payments and their future aspirations of public service jobs. Some voiced concerns of being retaliated against for speaking publicly. Others carried signs that said “S.O.S Save Our Services” and “Stop the war on America’s workforce.”
Belle Zaccari of Portland asks pointed questions of Oregon legislators during a town hall at the Federal Building in Portland, Ore., March 17, 2025. Zaccari, a clinical psychologist who has worked more than 10 years as a clinical psychologist for the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, said she has more than $300,000 in student loan debt.
Kristyna Wentz-Graff / OPB
Belle Zaccari, a clinical psychologist who has worked more than 10 years as a clinical psychologist for the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, said she has more than $300,000 in student loan debt. She added, “This is true for many people in this room.” She says veterans with chronic pain are not being served because of Trump’s previous executive orders.
“I came into the field of psychology to serve veterans, and I’m here. I get to actualize that dream,” said Zaccari. “And in this administration I see that threatened every single day. If I am to lose my job during this administration I don’t know that I’ll come back.”
Much of the battle over Trump’s efforts will be fought in court with Democratic attorneys general like Oregon’s Dan Rayfield, who attended Monday’s event. Rayfield, who has already sued the Trump administration eight times, alleges the mass firings are a result of decisions happening in “smoke-filled rooms without the public process.”
“Part of our jobs as attorneys general is to make sure the Trump administration is following the rule of law, making sure he’s following the constitution, and when he and his billionaire friends are not, we will hold them accountable in a court of law,” Rayfield said.
The Oregon Lottery offers several draw games for those aiming to win big.
Here’s a look at March 1, 2026, results for each game:
1PM: 4-1-6-1
4PM: 6-5-5-6
7PM: 2-1-9-9
10PM: 6-2-5-4
Check Pick 4 payouts and previous drawings here.
Feeling lucky? Explore the latest lottery news & results
This results page was generated automatically using information from TinBu and a template written and reviewed by an Oregon editor. You can send feedback using this form.
From Mount Baker’s soaring backdrop to the hillside village of Oceanside with its hidden tunnel beach, the Pacific Coast’s best moments often come in small-town America. Each waterfront has its own mix of boardwalks and marina sunsets, whether you’re strolling the sand in Brookings or catching the last light in Fort Bragg. Add in Victorian mansions, occasional Mediterranean-style flourishes, and that storybook, salt-air atmosphere that feels tailor-made for seaside fun. Below are the 6 friendliest towns on the Pacific Coast.
Although easy to overlook at first, Brookings leaves a lasting impression once visited. Located near the southern tip of Oregon’s coast, just six miles from California, it offers long, sandy beaches ideal for beachcombing, swimming, and relaxing—often with fewer crowds thanks to the area’s “Banana Belt” climate. North of town, Harris Beach State Park provides stunning scenery, diverse trails, and a rocky pocket beach perfect for memorable photos. Chetco Point Park surrounds Macklyn Cove with peaceful oceanfront paths, tide pools, a scenic lookout, and picnic areas nestled among rocks.
Within town, you’ll find bars, grills, a brewery, and a charming selection of shops and galleries, including Manley Art Center & Gallery—ideal for a midday break or relaxing after sunset. During summer, Azalea Park hosts free concerts and features a bandshell, sports facilities, and kids’ play areas. Take a photo at Capella by the Sea, a unique wood-and-stone chapel built by film producer Elmo Williams, then cross the Chetco River to Harbor, another delightful nearby community. At Chetco Brewing Company, the beer is proudly “homegrown,” crafted with ingredients from the property—like Irish moss for clarifying—without pesticides, herbicides, or additives, resulting in a crisp, refreshing taste.
Perched above the Pacific, Depoe Bay is a charming, compact town famously known as the world’s smallest natural navigable ocean harbor. Marine enthusiasts visit to see this up close, but that’s just part of the appeal. Combining its small-harbor claim with a larger reputation, Depoe Bay is celebrated as the whale-watching capital of the Oregon coast. From March to December, humpbacks, gray whales, and even orcas can be seen along with a variety of sea life. Unlike many locations where whale watching requires tickets, you can often view these giants for free during migration season from the town’s expansive observation deck.
Beyond whale watching, there’s plenty to explore. Visit the Whale Watch Center, or arrange a trip with Dockside Charters and Whale Watching Tours—an ideal gift for nature lovers. The museum at Whale Research EcoExcursions costs less than $5 and is located right at the harbor. Bayfront hotels in Depoe Bay are a popular choice for couples, especially for special occasions like honeymoons. For a rugged shoreline experience, Depoe Bay Scenic Park, next to the iconic Arch Rock Café, provides spots for wading, picnicking, and photography. When it’s time to dine, Gracie’s Sea Hag offers exceptional oceanfront seafood along with a bar and vibrant music scene.
About 150 miles north of San Francisco, Fort Bragg feels even more remote—in the best way. The area’s loudest sounds are the soothing waves, and the stars are the only bright lights in the night sky. The air is fresh and crisp, and the streets are pleasantly quiet—thanks to the outdoor attractions that steal the spotlight, from quick dips in the ocean to birdwatching and year-round whale-watching. You can explore Noyo Harbor by kayak from the docks, or take a scenic ride on the Skunk Train (or a rail bike) through meadows and redwoods. For a relaxed day, visit the Glass Fire Art Glass Gallery, stroll the trails at Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, then enjoy the sunset at Point Cabrillo Lighthouse, whose beam reaches 15 miles into the sea after dark.
Downtown Fort Bragg offers history walks, wine tastings, pub crawls with local brews, a cooking school, and the Discovery Center featuring a Blue Whale skeleton. Just south, many visitors go to Pomo Bluffs Park, a 25-acre area with benches and interpretive signs along the coastal trail for hiking and biking. Watch fishing boats bring in salmon, Dungeness crab, and abalone, then dine at The Wharf with waterfront views. For more open space, MacKerricher State Park provides wetlands full of birds and seal-watching opportunities, plus nearby Glass Beach, where colorful sea-tumbled glass sparkles like tiny treasures from the ocean.
La Conner is a charming town nestled on a delta near the mouth of the Skagit River, and it’s the oldest town in Skagit County. Its historic downtown showcases beautiful architecture from the early 1860s, a period when pioneers like Alexander Underwood, Michael Sullivan, Sam Calhoun, and A.G. Tillinghast settled in the area shortly after the Civil War. Originally named Swinomish, the town was later renamed by John Conner in honor of his wife, Louisa A., following his purchase of John Hayes’ trading post in 1869. This marked the beginning of the town’s first post office and general store on the west side of the Swinomish Slough. With a proud history and a strong focus on preservation, the entire town is proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Today, La Conner remains a vibrant community that still hosts the Swinomish Tribal Community. It beautifully combines the laid-back charm of a historic fishing village with the lively spirit of a well-loved artists’ colony. It’s also a peaceful wintering spot for graceful swans and Canada geese. Located along the stunning Salish Sea between Seattle and Vancouver, it’s a perfect place to relax and explore. Whether you visit in April for the colorful Tulip Festival or anytime throughout the year, you’ll enjoy browsing charming galleries, chatting with friendly locals, and admiring breathtaking views of Mount Baker reflected in the water. From the cheerful daffodils of March to classic cars and the lively “Brew on the Slough” event in October, La Conner’s welcoming calendar is packed with delightful events. Enjoy its unique boutiques, tasty dining options, and three fascinating museums—making it a wonderful weekend getaway.
Oceanside feels wonderfully calming even before you arrive—true to its name, it’s a place that gently reminds you of just how much the ocean influences our world. It offers everything you might hope for: expansive horizon views, a tranquil beach, and a charming oceanfront café where time seems to slow down on purpose. Offshore, the stunning Three Arch Rocks—part of a protected wildlife refuge—anchor the breathtaking scenery. At Maxwell Point, the coastline creates a delightful illusion of distance and scale. During low tide, you can stroll through a tunnel to reach Tunnel Beach, then continue past rocky points to explore a series of secluded coves that feel like a hidden world miles away.
With cozy beach rentals and charming B&Bs, settling into a relaxed rhythm is easy: start your day with breakfast at Blue Agate Cafe, return later for comforting seafood, homemade desserts, and drinks at Roseanna’s Cafe, and wind down beneath the majestic silhouette of the arched rocks overhead. There are so many iconic spots to explore—Symons State Scenic Viewpoint, Lost Boy Beach, and the Short Beach Trailhead—all just a short hike or drive away. And despite its quiet charm, this community remains wonderfully laid-back, nestled into a hillside that feels like a natural amphitheater, offering sweeping views from Oceanside Beach State Recreation Site.
Stretching from Washington through Oregon and into California, the U.S. “West Coast” continues north into British Columbia. With geography on its side, Tofino is pure Vancouver Island charisma—wild beaches, moody skies, and the real possibility of spotting black bears. With access via a reasonably priced charter flight or a ferry-and-bus combo, it’s surprising that something this rugged and authentic sits so close to Vancouver’s bustle. Start your day at the beloved Rhino Coffee House, then choose your own pace: fishing, kayaking, hiking, or simply sinking into the sands of Tonquin Park, which stretches from wilder Tonquin Beach near the tip to the calmer shoreline around Chesterman Beach.
Home to about 1,400 residents, including many surfers who share a love for whale-watching, Tofino proudly proclaims itself as the end of the Trans-Canada Highway. It offers a cozy selection of campsites, perfect for any adventure. Whether you’re riding the waves or quietly watching gray and humpback whales, just being here feels special — taking in the cedar-scented sea breeze as eagles soar above. Tofino completely avoids the chain-store scene, making it a truly relaxing retreat. Its mild climate features gentle winters and summers that are rarely too hot. For art lovers, Roy Henry Vickers Gallery highlights regional works, while Wolf in the Fog offers inventive, farm-fresh dishes and cocktails in a warm, inviting setting.
These colorful beachside towns greet you with captivating views, crashing waves, and ocean-fresh air—pairing old-world charm with a distinctly modern maritime culture. As varied as Washington, Oregon, California, and coastal British Columbia, they offer a little something for every kind of traveler. From Depoe Bay’s whale-watching scene to Fort Bragg’s wild coastline and Tofino’s surf-town spirit, spotting the ocean’s “friendly giants” is practically part of the itinerary.
And beyond the water, every slow turn down a quiet street reveals artisan boutiques, local eateries, and weathered cottages with real character. Whether you’re road-tripping the coast, escaping city noise, or overdue for a proper vacation, the blend of local life and wildlife delivers the kind of trip that stays with you. Watch whales from Depoe Bay, kayak Noyo Harbor in Fort Bragg, then head north to Tofino for that far-flung, end-of-the-road feeling—without ever losing sight of the sea.
Exclusive: DeepSeek withholds latest AI model from US chipmakers including Nvidia, sources say
Mother and daughter injured in Taunton house explosion
10 acres charred, 5 injured in Thornton grass fire, evacuation orders lifted
Wildfire near Gum Swamp Road in Livingston Parish now under control; more than 200 acres burned
YouTube TV billing scam emails are hitting inboxes
OpenAI didn’t contact police despite employees flagging mass shooter’s concerning chatbot interactions: REPORT
Stellantis is in a crisis of its own making
World reacts as US top court limits Trump’s tariff powers