City of North Bend release - The North Bend Police Department announced that community members have contributed more than $53,000 to support the department’s K-9 program, providing training, equipment and care for K-9 Athena and her handler.  “We are humbled by the generosity of our residents, local businesses and civic groups,” North Bend Police Chief Cal Mitts said. “Every dollar strengthens our ability to keep North Bend safe, and it directly supports K-9 Athena’s work in the field.”  Earlier this week, Chief Mitts, Captain Ed Perry and K-9 Officer Benjamin Martin joined Mayor Jessica Engelke for a donor meet-and-greet hosted by the Ko-Kwel Casino Resort. The resort provided the venue and refreshments in support of the program. “We are grateful for our partnership with the Ko-Kwel team and for every donor who made this milestone possible,” Chief Mitts said.  K-9 Athena has recently assisted in two operations. In one case, she supported the Oregon State Police during a traffic stop that led to the recovery of suspected illegal drugs and paraphernalia. In another, she participated with the South Coast Interagency Narcotics Team, the Coos County Sheriff’s Office and the Emergency Response Team during a court-authorized search on Broadway in North Bend that resulted in the seizure of drugs and firearms and multiple detentions by authorities.  “These outcomes show how donor support translates into real public safety results,” Chief Mitts said. “K-9 Athena is already making a difference, and we are committed to building on that momentum.”  To continue fundraising, the department will host the NBPD K-9 Benefit Concert featuring Rebel Canyon on Saturday, Nov. 8, in the Coos Bay Salmon Room at the Ko-Kwel Casino Resort. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the concert begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25 and are available at Ko-Kwel Gifts near the hotel lobby. First responders receive free admission with photo identification. All proceeds benefit the North Bend Police Department K-9 program.  Those who cannot attend can donate online at www.northbendoregon.us/k9donation. Questions may be directed to northbendoregon.us/contact.