Good morning, Corvallis.

The Benton County Sheriff's Office will host its 31st annual Shop with a Cop event in early December, pairing elementary-aged children with local law enforcement officers to help them shop for holiday gifts—officers from the sheriff’s office, Oregon State University Public Safety, Corvallis Police Department and Philomath Police will be involved.

Data from the Oregon Department of Education shows nearly 87% of ninth graders are on track to graduate while 35% of students have been chronically absent, marking a record achievement amid ongoing attendance challenges.

Enrollment has dropped and high poverty schools still face a shortage of experienced teachers—officials say more measures are needed to improve success for all students.

Philomath High School posted a 98% on-time graduation rate and a 99% five-year completion rate—well above state averages—showing that targeted programs helped students succeed; the district will continue to monitor student progress and work on improving attendance as the school year goes on.

The OLCC announced new hemp rules that will require all hemp products with cannabinoids to be registered in a Hemp Registry with clear test results and labels; registration starts Jan.

1, 2026. Enforcement begins June 1—retailers must remove items that do not meet the rules and pay a fee.

OSAA’s Classification and Districting Committee has recommended a six-classification system for 2026-30 that keeps Philomath in Class 4A Oregon West—while the committee refines cutoff points and league alignments ahead of its Dec.

15 decision. The Philomath High boys basketball team will hold its annual pie auction and scrimmage at 6 p.m. Tuesday to raise funds for season expenses.

A Merely Merrie Christmas Story

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Majestic Theatre — $17 — Experience a Shakespearean twist on a holiday classic with humor and slapstick charm.

Rock Concert Benefit for Lumina Hospice

7-9:30 p.m. — Ashbrook Independent School — $88 General Admission, $150 VIP — Experience a unique fusion of classical and rock music while supporting local hospice and youth musicians.

Winter's Eve Corvallis

Holiday Celebration — Evening — Downtown Corvallis — $50 per person — A sparkling evening with shopping, music, wine, and food benefiting local children and families.

Making Spirits Bright - A Winter Dance Concert

3-4:30 p.m. — Majestic Theatre — $16 for students/seniors, $18 for adults — Celebrate the season with dazzling performances from ballet to hip hop at the Majestic's annual dance concert.

Breath of the Forest

12-2 p.m. — Peavy Arboretum — Free entry — Immerse in nature with a guided hike and sound bath to inspire future forest stewards.

Wreath Making Workshop

1:30-4:30 a.m. — Corvallis — Free entry — Create a unique wreath using natural materials in a guided workshop.

A Very Jazzy Nutcracker

6:30 p.m. — Majestic Theatre — Tickets $30-$45 — Experience a dazzling jazzy rendition of Tchaikovsky’s classic with live music, auctions, and special guests.

Sam Houston Bearkats vs. Oregon State Beavers Mens Basketball

6:30-8:00 p.m. — Gill Coliseum — Ticket prices vary — Watch the Bearkats clash with the Beavers in an exciting college basketball showdown.