Lori Tobias Boeken

Journalist Lori Tobias began her journey on the Oregon Coast in 2000, initially freelancing from Newport before joining the Oregonian as a stringer. She eventually became the sole staff writer responsible for covering over three hundred miles of coastline, which involved long hours and being called out for storms, often in perilous conditions. This rugged and picturesque region, separated from Oregon's population centers by the Coast Range, is characterized by small towns dependent on fishing and tourism, alongside its stunning landscapes and fierce storms. Tobias reported on numerous tragedies, including car accidents, drownings, and violent crimes, but her narrative also captures lighter moments, reflecting her personal experiences of adapting to life on the coast. Her journey intertwines with the broader themes of aging parents, the decline of journalism in the twenty-first century, and the unexpected challenges faced by reporters, such as dealing with vertigo after a helicopter rappel. Ultimately, Tobias shares a captivating account of a region often visited but seldom truly understood.