The 2026 art exhibition series continues with the work of Erik Sandgren, who explores the Pacific Northwest landscape through the lenses of myth and history
 

SALEM, Oregon — The Office of the Governor, in partnership with the Oregon Arts Commission, will open the second exhibition in the 2026 Art in the Governor’s Office series on Friday, July 17, featuring the work of Oregon-born painter and printmaker Erik Sandgren. His work will be on display in the Governor’s Gallery (formerly the Ceremonial Office reception room) through October 8.

Art in the Governor’s Office brings the works of some of Oregon’s most distinguished artists to the state Capitol. This longstanding tradition, which began in 1975 and celebrates the diverse creativity of Oregon’s professional visual artists, relaunched this year following a pause due to the pandemic and the restoration of the Capitol building. The 2026 series opened with an exhibition by photographer Harrison Branch and continues with Sandgren’s paintings and prints.

Throughout his career working across many media, Sandgren has explored the Northwest landscape as a witness sensitive to myth and history. His large-scale murals, paintings and prints are held in private and public collections as diverse as the Maryhill Museum of Art and the Yale University Art Gallery.

“We’re delighted to continue showcasing some of Oregon’s most accomplished artists through Art in the Governor’s Office,” Oregon First Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson said. “Art provides inspiration, sparks conversation and helps tell the stories of who we are. And through our next artist, Erik Sandgren, visitors to the Capitol will encounter dynamic interpretations of some of our state’s most iconic landscapes.”

Sandgren’s Art in the Governor’s Office exhibition is titled Oregon: The Figured Landscape. The selection for the exhibition demonstrates the breadth of Erik Sandgren's practice through a compelling survey of Oregon's diverse landscapes, showing his ability to move fluidly between iconic landmarks, working waterfronts, intimate industrial scenes and lush interior environments.

While each painting is rooted in a specific place, together they transcend documentation, becoming meditations on the ways people experience and shape the Oregon landscape.

Born in 1952, Sandgren grew up in Corvallis near Oregon State University, where his father, noted painter and OSU art professor Nelson Sandgren, filled the family household with a visual culture that shaped Erik’s early education as a painter and printmaker. He studied at Yale (Bachelor’s, 1975) and Cornell (Master of Fine Arts, 1977), expanding his painting and printmaking under mentors Bernard Chaet, Gretna Campbell and Erwin Hauer. He returned to the Pacific Northwest in 1989, “the headwaters of his art and early life,” drawn by the raw nature of a vivid landscape.

“I hope viewers in that space will sense the dynamics of movement in my work ­­– of the landscape as animate,” Sandgren said. “I call this, for myself, the Deep Northwest – a feeling that our awareness of the living, working landscape enlarges any single view or moment. Focus on the most local can become the most universal experience. My long familiarity with the Pacific Northwest allows each painting of a representative site to be observed, remembered and imagined.” 

In Aberdeen, Washington, Sandgren served as a one-person art department at Grays Harbor College from 1989 through 2017. Several sabbaticals and the Fulbright program allowed him to teach and pursue artist residencies in England and France, which deepened his firsthand knowledge of history, Western art and architecture.

His work is represented in numerous collections, including the Franklin Furnace Gallery of the Museum of Modern Art, the China National Academy of Fine Art in Hangzhou, the University of Oregon Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art and the Hallie Ford Museum. His large-scale public projects include two notable murals: the 4,600-square-foot mural of Oregon landscapes he created with his father at the Eugene Airport in 1989 and the Centennial Project mural for the Port of Grays Harbor's Commission Room, commemorating a century of marine commerce.

“The Capitol Rotunda is exactly astride a striking north-south axis,” Sandgren said. “I am honored to be there, included as one point on that axis of Oregon's evolving history, art and social self-images.” 

Upcoming 2026 Exhibition

Following the exhibition by Erik Sandgren, the Governor’s Office will share the work of Nancy Watterson Scharf from October 9 through December 31. Scharf is based in the Southern Oregon coast range. Her acrylic paintings provide a “voice for nature,” investigating the complex relationship between humans, animals and the ecosystems they share.

Public Access

The Governor’s Gallery is viewable most Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitation information is available at 503-986-1388.

###

The Art in the Governor’s Office Program honors selected artists in Oregon with exhibitions in the Governor’s Gallery in the state Capitol. Artists are nominated by a statewide committee of arts professionals who consider artists representing the breadth and diversity of artistic practice across Oregon, and who are then selected by the Oregon Arts Commission with the participation of the Governor’s Office. Only professional, living Oregon artists are considered, and an exhibition in the Governor’s Office is considered a once-in-a-lifetime honor. Artists whose work has previously been shown in the Governor’s Office include Henk Pander, Michele Russo, Manuel Izquierdo, James Lavadour, Margot Thompson, Gordon Gilkey and Yuji Hiratsuka.

The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, arts programs and funding for nonprofits and artists through its grants, special initiatives and services. Commissioners appointed by the Governor establish policies and provide advisory support for public investment in the arts. The Arts Commission is part of Business Oregon in recognition of the vital role the arts play in supporting the economies, educational opportunities and vibrancy of communities throughout the state.

The Oregon Arts Commission is supported with funds appropriated by the Oregon Legislature, as well as by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Oregon Cultural Trust. Learn more at oregonartscommission.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Board of Forestry will hold a special virtual meeting on Wednesday, July 22, starting at 8:30 a.m. The focus of this special meeting is for the board to consider the adoption of the Western Oregon State Forests Management Plan. This meeting will be livestreamed on the department’s YouTube channel. 

The board’s business agenda includes:

• FTLAC comments
• Consider adoption of the Western Oregon State Forests Management Plan 

The full agenda is available on the board’s webpage.

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-302-6344 or by email at oardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov" target="_blank">boardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov. 

The Oregon Board of Forestry consists of seven citizens nominated by the Governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate. Responsibilities include setting management direction for state-owned forests, adopting rules governing timber harvest and other practices on private forestland, and promoting sustainable management of Oregon’s 30 million-acre forestland base. Learn more about the board.

PRIVATE SECURITY ENTITY RULES ADVISORY COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

Notice of Scheduled Meeting

The Private Security Entity Rules Advisory Committee will hold a meeting on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., in Conference Room A234 at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST or Department) located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Jennifer Howald at (503) 551-3258 or jennifer.howald@dpsst.oregon.gov.

The meeting will be recorded and posted on the DPSST official YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery. Click or tap if you trust this link.">https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Workgroup Overview

3. Review of Draft Changes for Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) Chapter 259 Division 59. the Private Security Entity Licensing Program

4. Review of Discussion Topics

         a. Changing the Expiration Date for the Licensing Period

           b. Adding Options for a Multi-Year License

           c. Licensing Fee Structure

           d. General Liability Insurance Coverage Requirements

           e. Tax Compliance Certification Requirement 

           f. Surety Bond or Deposit Amounts for Proof of Ability to Pay Wages Requirements

          g. Rule Placement of Record Keeping Requirements

          h. Additional Discussion Topics as Needed

5. Next Workgroup Meeting – August 11, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., and Thursday, August 27, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.

Administrative Announcement

This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law and it will be recorded. Deliberation of issues will only be conducted by Private Security/Private Investigations Policy Committee members unless permitted by the Chair. Individuals who engage in disruptive behavior that impedes official business will be asked to stop being disruptive or leave the meeting. Additional measures may be taken to have disruptive individuals removed if their continued presence poses a safety risk to the other persons in the room or makes it impossible to continue the meeting.

DPSST provides reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access for people with disabilities and those with limited English proficiency. To request a sign language interpreter, translation services, or other accommodations, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or at nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

DPSST proporciona acomodaciones rasonables para asegurar el acceso igual para personas con descapacidades y para personas con competencia limitada de inglés. Para pedir un interprete de lengua de señas, servicios de traducción, u otras acomodaciones, por favor de contactar a Juan Lopez marcando al (503) 551-3167, o a nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, al menos 48 horas antes de la reunión.

A meeting of the Board of Directors of Central Douglas Fire & Rescue Authority will hold its meeting at its headquarters located at 250 SE Main St. Winston, OR 97496 on Monday July 20, 2026 at 5:30 pm. To comply with House Bill 2560, those that wish to participate can attend through videoconferencing or telephonically. If you plan on attending the meeting, please call the business office at 541-673-5503 during normal business hours prior to 4:00 pm on Monday June 15, 2026 for instructions.

The Board agenda to include but not limited to:

   1. Elect Officers

   2. Select Legal Counsel per Board Policy 1.11

   3. Monthly Financials

The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting to administration at 541-673-5503.

A meeting of the Board of Directors of Douglas County Fire District No. 2 will hold its meeting at its headquarters located at 250 SE Main St. Winston, OR 97496 on Monday July 20, 2026 at 5:30 pm. A supplemental budget adjustment will be considered at this meeting. To comply with House Bill 2560, those that wish to participate can attend through videoconferencing or telephonically. If you plan on attending the meeting, please call the business office at 541-673-5503 during normal business hours prior to 4:00 pm on Monday July 20, 2026 for instructions.

The Board agenda to include but not limited to:

   1.  Elect Officers

   2.  Select Legal Counsel per Board Policy 1.11

   3.  Monthly Financials

The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting to administration at 541-673-5503.

DESCHUTES COUNTY, Ore. (14 July 2026) – The Oregon State Police is seeking additional witnesses who may have seen a 2013 black Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck pulling a single-axle utility trailer on Highway 20E near milepost 41 on July 10, 2026.

On Friday, July 10, 2026, at 12:47 p.m., troopers responded to a three-vehicle crash on Hwy. 20E near milepost 41. The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound black Chevrolet Silverado attempted to pass a black Dodge 4500 towing a trailer. An eastbound Hyundai Elantra attempted to avoid a collision with the Chevrolet, lost control in the gravel eastbound shoulder, veered into the westbound lane, and collided with the trailer pulled by the Dodge 4500.  

  
The driver and passenger of the Hyundai were transported by air medic to a local hospital with serious injuries. 

The crash affected traffic for approximately five hours.

The operator of the Chevrolet was cited for careless driving and unsafe passing. OSP is asking for any witnesses who may have observed the vehicle driving westbound on Hwy. 20 at the moment of or prior to the collision.

Anyone with information is asked to call the OSP Northern Command Center dispatch at 800-442-0776 or OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP26-255130.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

A meeting of the Board of Directors of Winston Dillard Fire District will hold its meeting at its headquarters located at 250 SE Main St., Winston, OR on Monday, July 20, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. A supplemental budget adjustment will be considered at this meeting. To comply with House Bill 2560, those that wish to participate can attend through videoconferencing or telephonically. If you plan on attending the meeting, please call the business office at 541-679-8721 during normal business hours prior to 4:00 p.m. on Monday July 20, 2026 for instructions.

The Board agenda to include but not limited to:

   1. Elect Officers

   2. Select Legal Counsel per Board Policy 1.11

   3. Monthly Financials

   4. SB1068 Annexation Approval Request for Property ID: R43961, R44401, R134050,

       R65275     

The meeting location is accessible to person with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting to administration at 541-679-8721.

Gilchrist State Forest, Ore.—With only an average yearly rainfall of 10 inches, wildlife in the Gilchrist State Forest can get easily stressed during the hot dry summers of central Oregon.  But thanks to some old school technology that has been used since the 1960s wildlife can use 11 artificial watering holes called guzzlers in the 72,000-acre state forest managed by the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF).

“The entire Gilchrist has no perennial water source, meaning no rivers, streams, lakes, or ponds” said Vanessa Petro, ODF’s Lead State Forest Wildlife Biologist. “Providing important habitat features like these guzzlers benefits a wide range of species including the Crescent mule deer herd, American badger, Rocky Mountain elk, and many small mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.”

Guzzlers are typically constructed of common metal roofing material just a foot or two off the ground that is the collector of rain, snow, or condensation. The water flows from the collector into a gutting system that takes it to an underground holding tank or tanks. From there a float system like in your toilet keeps a nearby downhill watering trough filled.

Though simple in design the guzzlers do require regular maintenance.

“We inventoried and examined all 11,” said Petro. “Three of them need to be rebuilt later this summer when more supplies are available while several others had either muck in the tanks, plumbing issues, or the apron needed to be repaired.”

The group of volunteers from the Oregon Hunter’s Association, Walker Range Fire Protection Association, and ODF wildlife staff got busy in the field fixing those issues.

“We also were able to enroll all the guzzlers on Gilchrist into the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Adopt a Guzzler Program,” said Petro. “This helps pay for materials by tracking volunteer time and mileage the state can use as grant funding match.”

Although ODF led this round of maintenance and the guzzler enrollment paperwork, it’s the volunteers who make the guzzlers effective year-round.

“The Walker Range FPA volunteers use their firefighting tanker trucks to fill up the guzzler tanks several times each summer when they are not being used to fight wildfires,” said Petro.  “There just isn’t enough rainfall or condensation to keep those tanks filled and in use. The OHA volunteers fix things on the spot when they see something that needs to be repaired and are also key in educating other hunters on ethics with guzzlers, including the reminder of the recommended 300-foot spacing for setting up tree stands.”

Most Oregon residents associate the lush Clatsop and Tillamook State Forests as their state forests; but Gilchrist and Sun Pass State Forests in eastern Oregon are different and unique.

“ODF actively manages these state forestlands under forest management plans to provide economic, environmental, and social benefits to Oregonians,” said Petro. “Wildlife plays a big part of all three of those management goals. So, it is critical to have diverse and healthy wildlife populations in all our state forests. One small way to aid that in the Gilchrist is through the guzzlers. Just as important is to have folks actively participate in maintaining and improving their state forests. We thank all the volunteers who help do that.”

For more on Oregon’s state forests see: Oregon Department of Forestry : State forests : Forest resources : State of Oregon

FIRE POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING CANCELLED

The Fire Policy Committee meeting scheduled for August 26, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., has been cancelled due to a lack of agenda items.

The next Fire Policy Committee meeting is scheduled for November 25, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.

July 13, 2026 

Media contact: Jonathan Modie, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov 

Three Providence locations become latest measles exposure sites

PORTLAND, Ore.—Three new measles exposure locations have been identified, and Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Multnomah and Clackamas county public health officials are urging people to talk to a health care provider about their risks if they believe they were exposed. 

People might have been exposed if they were at the following locations at these dates and times:  

• Providence Immediate Care—Happy Valley, 16180 SE Sunnyside Road, Suite 102, Happy Valley, between 7:42 a.m. and 10:22 a.m. Thursday, July 9. 
• Providence Willamette Falls Medical Center, emergency department, 1500 Division St., Oregon City, between 12:18 a.m. and 5:56 a.m. Friday, July 10. 
• Providence Willamette Falls Medical Center, emergency department, 1500 Division St., Oregon City, between 10:04 a.m. and 2:57 p.m. Saturday, July 11.
• Providence Portland Medical Center, emergency department, 4805 NE Glisan St., Portland, between 1:39 p.m. and 4:57 p.m. Saturday, July 11.
• Providence Portland Medical Center, emergency department, 4805 NE Glisan St., Portland, between 7:32 p.m. and 9:46 p.m. Sunday, July 12. 

People who were at these locations during these dates and time periods should immediately contact their health care provider and let them know they may have been exposed to someone who has measles. The health care provider can determine your risk for measles based on your vaccination record, age, or laboratory evidence of prior infection.  

Families without a primary care provider can establish care at any of Multnomah County's seven primary care clinics or nine student health centers (based at high schools but open to anyone ages 5-18) by calling 503-988-5558 to make a new patient appointment. Clackamas County residents can schedule an appointment with a Clackamas County Health Center. 

Facts about measles

Measles spreads through the air after a person with measles coughs or sneezes. People are contagious with measles for four days before a rash appears and up to four days afterward. The virus particles also can linger in the air for up to two hours after someone who is infectious has left the area. 

Measles typically starts with a fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. A rash usually follows, beginning on the face and spreading to the rest of the body. Symptoms begin seven to 21 days after exposure to a person with measles. Common complications of measles include ear infection, lung infection and diarrhea. Swelling of the brain is a rare but much more serious complication. 

Measles can be dangerous, especially among children younger than 5, adults older than 20, pregnant people, and people with weakened immune systems. In developed countries in recent years, one to three of every 1,000 measles cases has been fatal.  The measles vaccine is highly effective at providing protection, as two doses of the MMR vaccine is 97% effective at preventing the virus. The risk of severe disease from measles for people who are up to date on their vaccines is very low. 

What to do if you suspect measles in your household  

Public health officials urge people experiencing symptoms of measles not to arrive unannounced at a medical office if they:  

1. Have a measles-like rash, or
2. Have been exposed to measles within the previous 21 days, AND have any other symptom of measles (such as fever, cough or red eyes). 

Whenever possible, individuals planning to seek medical care should first call your health care provider or urgent care center by telephone to create an entry plan to avoid exposing others in waiting rooms. 

Learn more about measles at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DISEASESCONDITIONS/DISEASESAZ/Pages/measles.aspx. 

###

YAMHILL COUNTY, Ore. (13 July 2026) – On Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 2:06 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 18 near milepost 58 in Yamhill County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a silver Honda Civic, operated by Jayce Alan Hall (19) of Salem, was traveling westbound on Hwy. 18 near Newberg when it failed to negotiate a turn, drifted into the eastbound lane, and collided head-on with a white International commercial motor vehicle, operated by Robert Emmanuel Hunter (43) of Portland.

  
The operator of the Honda (Hall) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Honda passenger Isaiah Jacob Aas (18) of Salem was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.

The operator of the International (Hunter) was reportedly not injured, remained on scene and was cooperative with the investigation.

The highway was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Newberg-Dundee Police Department, Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office, Newberg Fire Department, Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

SALEM, Ore. — The Board of Forestry Governance Committee will meet virtually at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, July 14. To join, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Annual Board Governance Performance Evaluation (Addendum G)
• Advisory Committee Establishment Procedures (Addendum D)

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged in advance of the meeting by email at oardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov">boardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov.

This standing board committee recommends policies (or policy changes) to the board pertaining to governance issues and processes including the oversight and management of the Board Policy Manual, orientation and training of new board members, the evaluation and improvement of the board, the repository of board materials, and oversight of the written conflict of interest policies, procedures, and review of annual or special statements of board members. Learn more about the committee.

OHA urges vaccination amid global rise in clade I mpox transmission

Mpox type can cause more severe symptoms than clade II version of virus

PORTLAND, Ore.—Public health officials are urging people at higher risk of exposure to mpox to get vaccinated—and for health care providers to watch for symptoms among patients—as transmission of a more serious type of the virus increases globally.

Community transmission of clade I mpox virus type is increasing in several countries around the world, including in western Europe, and central and eastern Africa. Symptoms of clade I mpox may be associated with more severe disease than clade II mpox, which caused the ongoing, global outbreak of the virus among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men that started in 2022.

Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., health officer and state epidemiologist at Oregon Health Authority (OHA), said people at higher risk of mpox infection should get the vaccine, known as JYNNEOS, as soon as possible.

“A recent uptick in mpox cases in other states has primarily been among men who have sex with men,” Sidelinger said. “While June is Pride Month, Pride events and festivals attracting gay men continue through the summer and into the fall. Some attendees at these events might engage in sexual behavior with other folks they meet at these events so should consider vaccination to protect against mpox, if they haven’t gotten the vaccine already.”

It’s also important for health care providers to know what symptoms to look for when seeing patients, Sidelinger said, and knowing who is most at risk.

Mpox spreads primarily through close, skin-to-skin contact. Most often, it has occurred through intimate or sexual contact, or during contact with the lesions of an individual with mpox through a caregiving relationship, such as a parent caring for a child or an adult caretaker of another person.

Infection rates are highest among people living in Multnomah County, those ages 30 to 39, and members of the Hispanic and Black/African American communities. Most cases were men who reported having sex with men, and most identified as gay or bisexual men.

In Oregon, one mpox case was reported in January 2026, and there have been no reported cases since then. There were 270 cases in 2022 when the global mpox outbreak began, and 30 cases in 2023. In 2024, there were 14 cases, and 24 cases in 2025.

People who suspect they have mpox should contact their health care provider to let them know before going in to be seen. The provider may recommend testing for mpox. Those who don’t have a health care provider can call 2-1-1 or their local public health authority for help finding a clinic or health care provider. 

About JYNNEOS

The JYNNEOS mpox vaccine is highly effective. According to a May 2023 study published in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, the vaccine was found to be 75% effective for those receiving one dose and 86% effective for those who had two doses.

JYNNEOS is licensed as a series of two doses administered 28 days apart. If more than 28 days have passed, patients should receive the second dose as soon as possible and do not need to restart the series. JYNNEOS vaccine is expected to be effective against both clades of mpox.

For patients who have received two JYNNEOS doses, no additional or booster doses are currently recommended. Vaccination is not recommended for patients who have previously recovered from mpox.

JYNNEOS is available through health care providers and commercial pharmacies, and it remains free to Oregon Health Plan members. Oregon law requires vaccine’s cost to be covered for others with commercial insurance.

For more information about mpox in Oregon, visit OHA’s mpox website.

  Lane County Public Health (LCPH) today announced laboratory confirmation from the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at Oregon State University of a rabies-infected bat found in Lane County. This is the third bat found in Lane County which has tested positive for rabies in 2026.

"All pet owners should make certain their dogs and cats are vaccinated against rabies.  When our pets are protected from rabies, it provides a buffer zone of immune animals between humans and rabid wild animals, such as bats," says Dr. Emilio DeBess, State Public Health Veterinarian.

While bats help control insect populations, including mosquitoes, they are the primary reservoir of rabies in our wild animal communities.  Thus far this year in Oregon 13 bats have tested positive for rabies. 

Lane County residents and veterinarians should be aware that other animals could be exposed to the rabies virus and should, therefore, be alert to potential signs of the disease.  Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system of humans and mammals.  It is almost 100 percent fatal once symptoms begin.  The virus is carried in the saliva of an infected animal; transmission can occur when that animal bites, or in rare instances, scratches another animal or person. If bitten by a bat the wound should be immediately and thoroughly cleaned with soap and water.  In addition, medical attention should be sought.  Finally, if easily accomplished, the bat should be captured and the event reported to the Lane County Public Health.

There are several strains of rabies found in the U.S. (e.g., bat, skunk, fox, raccoon) but only bat rabies is found in Oregon.  Other animals that have tested positive for rabies in Oregon have contracted it from bats. People should stay away from bats and not handle them. 

LCPH recommends the following:

·         Vaccinate your pets (dogs and cats) against rabies

·          Do not handle bats with bare hands

·         Watch wildlife from a distance. Do not approach or attempt to handle wild animals.

·         Do not feed wild animals

·         Keep garbage in secure containers and away from wildlife

·         Feed pets indoors

·         Seal openings in attics, basements, porches, sheds, barns and screen chimneys that might provide access to bats and other wildlife

·         If your pet has contact with a bat, contact your veterinarian

For a statewide map showing the distribution of rabies in bats for 2026, please visit:https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DISEASESCONDITIONS/DISEASESAZ/RABIES/Documents/rabiesmap26.pdf

Lane County Public Health is a division of Lane County Health & Human Services is a department of Lane County. Their programs and services create a healthier and safer community through disease prevention, health promotion, and protection from environmental threats. Learn more about the work of Lane County Health and Human Services at: http://www.lanecountyor.gov/HHS

Free worker safety and health training workshops are coming to rural communities in Oregon this summer thanks to a partnership between the Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) and the Oregon Employment Department.

The training workshops – designed for those in the workforce and people seeking work – will show people how to protect themselves at work from the four hazards that pose the greatest risk of death in the construction industry: falls, caught in or between, struck-by, and electrocution. In addition to the “focus four” training, the workshops will address heat-illness prevention, workers’ rights and whistleblower protections, and information for workers and employers in small businesses. The four-hour workshops will feature certificates of completion and continuing education credits.

The training workshops – presented by Oregon OSHA staff members – will be held at WorkSource Oregon centers. The following locations are currently scheduled, with more to come:

• July 28 – 1 p.m. Hermiston
• July 30 – 1 p.m. The Dalles
• Aug. 4 – 1 p.m. La Grande
• Aug. 11 – 8:30 a.m. Klamath Falls
• Aug. 17 – 9 a.m. McMinnville
• Aug. 18 – 1 p.m. Pendleton

To register for a training workshop and location, go to: https://dcbs.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9Z8yoLuhb8kh4DI

Those who have questions or who want more information about the workshops and locations may contact Greig Lowell, consultation and outreach manager for Oregon OSHA: eig.k.lowell@dcbs.oregon.gov">greig.k.lowell@dcbs.oregon.gov or 971-352-1181.

The training workshops stem from a $200,000 grant that Oregon OSHA secured in September 2025 to increase workplace safety and health training in rural communities. The division received approval of the grant through the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, U.S. Department of Labor Susan Harwood Training Grant Program.

The grant program funds preselected applicants to develop and deliver training on workplace hazard recognition, as well as abatement and prevention of workplace safety and health injuries and illnesses. It emphasizes six areas: educating workers and employers in small businesses; training workers and employers on identifying and preventing serious workplace safety and health hazards; training workers facing barriers to safety and health training; training workers and employers about new safety and health standards; developing and sharing materials to train and educate workers; and educating workers on their rights and employers on their responsibilities. This training material was produced under grant number 25F50SH000219 from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, U.S. Department of Labor. It does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Department of Labor, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.

Under the Oregon Safe Employment Act, Oregon workers have a right to safe and healthy working conditions. They have a right to speak up when those conditions are lacking or absent. Employers must create and maintain safe and healthy workplaces.

###

About Oregon OSHA: Oregon OSHA enforces the state’s workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit osha.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

EUGENE, Ore.—The last of four co-defendants was sentenced to federal prison last Friday after burglaries of a home in Coos County, Oregon, and stealing cash, gold, silver coins, and firearms. The following individuals have been sentenced:

• Daniel Knapp, 58, of Port Orford, Oregon, was sentenced last Friday to 24 months in federal prison and 3 years of supervised release;
• William Travis Cutlip, 41, of Port Orford, was sentenced July 7, 2026, to 24 months in federal prison and 3 years of supervised release;
• Kyle Vanalstine, 31, of Bandon, Oregon, was sentenced July 7, 2026, to 77 months in federal prison and 5 years of supervised release; and
• Matthew Knapp, 48, of Ashland, Oregon, was sentenced June 24, 2026, to five years of probation.

According to court documents, a federal firearms investigation began after a significant residential burglary. On Dec. 19, 2023, Matthew Knapp, Daniel Knapp, and Cutlip broke into the vault of a Coos County residence and stole approximately one million dollars in cash, gold, silver coins, and at least one firearm. After returning to one of their residences, Matthew Knapp was seen possessing a stolen pistol. The investigation revealed several messages showing Matthew Knapp’s history with firearms and accessories nine months prior, in March 2023. Matthew Knapp is a felon and prohibited from having a firearm. Matthew Knapp was later convicted of Aggravated Theft I in state court.

Several days later, on Dec. 23, Vanalstine broke into the same vault and stole approximately 40 firearms, including assault rifles, pistols, and at least one silencer and transferred many of them to Cutlip. Several stolen firearms stored at Cutlip’s property were later recovered in California.

On Jan. 5, 2024, law enforcement stopped and searched Vanalstine while he was driving in Curry County, Oregon. In his car, Vanalstine had more than one kilogram of methamphetamine, scales and a loaded pistol. Vanalstine was convicted in state court for the burglary of the residence and for a separate possession of a controlled substance case, and was sentenced to prison for both offenses.

On Jan. 9, 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant on Cutlip’s residence in Port Orford and seized a stolen silencer and the assault rifles pictured below:

In January 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Daniel Knapp’s residence and found a .22 revolver, which was unconnected to the burglary. Daniel Knapp is a felon and prohibited from having a firearm.

On Dec. 11, 2024, Cutlip pleaded guilty to conspiracy to traffic in firearms. He was convicted in state court for burglary.

On Dec. 4, 2025, Vanalstine pleaded guilty to trafficking in firearms and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

In February 2026, Matthew Knapp and Daniel Knapp pleaded guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.

U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon made the announcement.

This case was prosecuted by the ATF, FBI, SCINT (South Coos Interagency Narcotics Team), Coos County Sheriff Office, and Oregon State Police, with assistance from Coquille Tribal Police, Bandon Police Department, Coos Bay Police Department and the Douglas Interagency Narcotics Team (DINT). It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Sweet.

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore— L.L. Stub Stewart and Rooster Rock State Parks will celebrate the night sky with free stargazing parties in July, August and September.

The parks are partnering with OMSI and Rose City Astronomers to host an OMSI Star Party 2026, which includes a presentation at dusk and stargazing from 9 to 11 p.m. Telescopes will be provided by volunteers, and visitors are welcome to bring their own. Depending on the weather, stargazers will search out stars, the moon, and planets.

“We love helping people experience the park in a different way. After dark, everything feels calmer, quieter, and a little more magical,” shared Park Ranger Jeremy Williams at L. L. Stub Stewart State Park.

These events are free. Parking in the day-use areas requires a $10 parking permit per vehicle or you can use an annual parking pass if you have one.

Visitors are encouraged to bring their own chairs, blankets, warm clothing, snacks and water. Bug repellent is always a good idea. Please use red flashlights to avoid interfering with the dark sky viewing. You can also cover your flashlight or smartphone with red electrical tape.

Star maps will be provided along with recommended astronomy apps that visitors can load on their phones if interested.

Visitors should arrive early to familiarize themselves with the area and park only in designated spaces. Overnight camping is not permitted in day-use areas, though campground reservations are available at stateparks.oregon.gov.

On the scheduled day for OMSI Star Parties, visitors should visit the OMSI website for possible weather-related cancellations. The long-range forecast looks promising for excellent viewing.

“Whether you come to Rooster Rock to count Perseids or simply to spend a peaceful evening under the stars, the meteor shower is a wonderful excuse to slow down, look up, and experience the Gorge in a whole new light”, said Park Ranger Elika Paki at Rooster Rock. “And if you lose track of how many shooting stars you’ve seen, don’t worry, that just means you’re doing it right.”

All events begin at dusk. We recommend arriving early to accommodate parking. Parks will close at 11:45 p.m.

Summer Night Sky | Saturday, July 18

• L. L. Stub Stewart State Park

Perseid Meteor Shower Watch | Wednesday, August 12

• L. L. Stub Stewart State Park
• Rooster Rock State Park

Equinox Celebration | Saturday, September 12

• L. L. Stub Stewart State Park

You can find additional details about the event, parking logistics, whether pets are allowed, and how to request accessibility accommodations on the L.L. Stub Stewart State Park and Rooster Rock State Park event pages, and the OMSI event page.

Oregon State Parks often hosts stargazing events across the state. More opportunities can be found on Oregon State Parks’ event page.

XXX

July 13, 2026

Contact: Colin Fogarty

Director of Communications

ty@oregoncf.org">cfogarty@oregoncf.org

Latino Partnership Program Awards Nearly $900,000 to Latino-Led, Latino-Serving Nonprofits Statewide

New partnership with OnPoint Community Credit Union Foundation expands wealth-building investments for Latino entrepreneurs and families

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Latino Partnership Program of Oregon Community Foundation is supporting Latino-led and Latino-serving nonprofits across Oregon with $897,000 in grants to organizations that advance education, leadership development and wealth building in Latino communities.

The 70 new grants provide general operating support, recognizing nonprofit partners’ need for flexibility and sustainability. This year, LPP received applications from every region of Oregon. Education drew the most applications and recommendations, followed by wealth building.

“This year's grants reflect the resilience and resourcefulness of Latino organizations across Oregon,” said Mirna Loreli Cibrian, Senior Program Officer for the Latino Partnership Program. “As organizations navigate community concerns and funding uncertainty, flexible general operating support enables them to remain strong. We are committed to listening, responding and investing to meet this moment with purpose, compassion and a shared commitment to strengthening communities across Oregon.”

Cibrian added that the grants reflect the fact that Latino-serving organizations play a critical role in advancing educational success and long-term economic mobility. When these organizations must redirect limited resources to respond to immediate crises, their ability to invest in long-term opportunities is diminished.

Organizations that applied in the wealth-building category emphasized culturally responsive, bilingual programming addressing financial literacy, entrepreneurship, homeownership and workforce development, with several citing steep drops in sales and mounting economic pressure on Latino-owned small businesses.

Leadership development applicants focused on mentorship, civic engagement and workforce pathways for young people and adults. Education applicants emphasized bilingual instruction, family engagement and support addressing barriers tied to immigration and mental health.

Grants Reach Every Corner of Oregon

This year's grantees span the state, from the South Coast to Eastern Oregon. The Mexican American Citizens League in Ontario received $15,000. In Central Oregon, Better Together Central Oregon in Redmond received $15,000, and in Southern Oregon, La Clinica in Medford received $15,000. A grant of $15,000 went to Hacienda Community Development Corporation in Portland.

Partnership Built with OnPoint Community Credit Union Foundation

A new three-year commitment from OnPoint Community Credit Union Foundation allows LPP to provide additional awards for wealth-building work. The partnership supports Prosperidad Oregon, Latino Founders, Latino Community Association and Malheur Education Service District, which provide culturally responsive business coaching, workforce development, entrepreneurship support, early learning career pathways and access to capital.

“This partnership with OnPoint Community Credit Union Foundation reflects our shared commitment to expanding economic opportunity in Latino communities,” Cibrian said. “As Oregon’s Latino community continues to grow, we welcome new partners who share our commitment to creating lasting impact.”

Grantees supported by OnPoint Community Credit Union Foundation:

Prosperidad Oregon empowers Latino Oregonians by providing access to capital and opportunities for personal and economic growth. Its business coaching and lending initiative combines bilingual business coaching, financial education and navigation support with flexible microloans and Individual Development Accounts for minority-owned businesses excluded from traditional systems. (Northern Willamette Valley)

Latino Founders advances economic mobility and generational wealth for Latino entrepreneurs through culturally relevant business education, leadership development and pathways to capital. Its flagship 10-week Accelerator program supports early-stage Latino entrepreneurs in transforming ideas into scalable, market-ready businesses, offering education, mentorship and connections to capital. The program culminates in Pitch Latino, where founders showcase their businesses to the community. (Statewide)

Latino Community Association empowers Latino families to thrive by creating opportunities for advancement and building bridges that unite the community. Its workforce empowerment program strengthens economic stability and growth in Central Oregon, helping participants access employment and advance into sustainable, higher-wage careers or grow their own businesses while confronting barriers such as language, educational attainment and unfamiliarity with systems. (Central Oregon)

Malheur Education Service District, through its Eastern Oregon Child Care Resources program, champions accessible, equitable and sustainable early learning workforce pathways. Its Spanish Cohort Child Care Business Accelerator supports Latino families to become small business owners, stabilize their income and build long-term assets by treating child care as an essential service and a pathway to entrepreneurship and housing stability. (Eastern Oregon)

A full list of Latino Partnership Program grants is available here.

About the Latino Partnership Program

Established in 2002, the Latino Partnership Program is a statewide program of Oregon Community Foundation that addresses the challenges facing Oregon's Latino community. With the support of many volunteers, LPP centers the voices and experiences of Latino Oregonians by leaning into the strengths and collective wisdom of comunidades across Oregon. LPP partners with community leaders and organizations working in its focus areas of education, leadership development and wealth building.

About Oregon Community Foundation

Since 1973, Oregon Community Foundation has worked to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. In partnership with donors and volunteers, OCF strengthens communities in every county in Oregon through grantmaking, scholarships and research. To learn more, visit oregoncf.org.

About OnPoint Community Credit Union Foundation

The OnPoint Community Credit Union Foundation is an independent nonprofit established in 2024. Funded by OnPoint Community Credit Union, the OnPoint Community Credit Union Foundation carries forward the credit union’s legacy of supporting education and community well-being across Oregon and southwest Washington. The organization seeks to transform the financial vitality of our community by expanding access to financial education and financial literacy, education, and capital. Learn more at onpointcu.com/community-giving.

###

PORTLAND, Ore.— An Armenian national extradited from Ukraine to the United States pleaded guilty yesterday for his role in Ryuk ransomware attacks and an extortion conspiracy targeting companies throughout the United States, including a technology company operating in Oregon.

Karen Serobovich Vardanyan, 34, pleaded guilty to conspiracy and computer fraud.

According to court documents, between November 2019 through April 2020, Vardanyan illegally accessed computer networks of victim companies to deploy Ryuk ransomware on compromised servers and workstations. Ryuk ransomware is a type of malicious software designed to encrypt data on a victim's computer or network and prevents the victim from accessing the encrypted files until a ransom is paid.

As part of the scheme, ransom payments were extorted from victim companies in exchange for decryption keys to regain access to their data. A ransom note was placed on the computer systems demanding ransom payments in Bitcoin, a form of cryptocurrency, and provided an email address that victims could use to communicate with the cybercriminals.

Vardanyan worked with his co-conspirators to attack a company in Michigan that paid 200 bitcoin or over $1.1 million at the time of payment to restore access to their network. They also attacked a company in Wilsonville, Oregon, and in February 2020 attacked a school in Texas.

Vardanyan and his co-conspirators illegally accessed computer networks of victim companies and deployed ransomware on hundreds of compromised servers and workstations. Vardanyan and his co-conspirators are alleged to have received approximately 1,610 bitcoins in ransom payments from the victim companies, which was valued at over $15 million at the time of payment.

On Feb. 22, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a three-count indictment charging Vardanyan with conspiracy, computer fraud, and extortion.

Vardanyan faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release for conspiracy. He faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release for computer fraud. Vardanyan will be sentenced on Sept. 22. 2026, by a U.S. district court judge.

As part of the plea agreement, Vardanyan has agreed to pay over $1.1 million in restitution.

U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon made the announcement.

The case is being investigated by the FBI. It is being prosecuted by Katherine A. Rykken, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in securing Vardanyan’s arrest and extradition from Ukraine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office thanks the Ukrainian authorities for their assistance in this matter.

# # #

July 12, 2026 – At approximately 5:04 p.m. today, Lebanon Fire District firefighters were dispatched to the area of Brewster Road and E. Grant Street for a reported brush fire.

The first-arriving Battalion Chief found smoke coming from trees approximately 75 feet in from the river. A drone was immediately deployed to provide an aerial view of the fire, allowing crews to quickly assess its size and develop an effective attack plan.

As conditions indicated the fire had the potential to grow, the incident was upgraded to a First Alarm, bringing in two off-duty firefighters and six volunteer firefighters to assist with suppression efforts. 

The fire ultimately burned approximately 1.2 acres. Firefighters remained on scene for more than two and a half hours extinguishing hot spots and completing extensive mop-up operations to ensure the fire would not rekindle.

Crews utilized a portable water pump to draft water directly from the river, providing a continuous water supply in the remote area. The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) responded with a dozer and constructed a containment line around the fire to help prevent further spread.

One firefighter was stung by a bee. No other injuries were reported.

While crews were actively fighting the fire, both Lebanon Fire District medic units had to be reassigned to respond to three separate medical emergencies, including a cardiac arrest. During that time, the district was assisted by the Albany Fire Department, which provided engine coverage to ensure emergency response capabilities remained available throughout the community.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Lebanon Fire District would like to thank the Oregon Department of Forestry, the Linn County Sheriff's Office, and the Albany Fire Department for their assistance during today's incident.

With the current hot, dry, and windy weather conditions, Lebanon Fire District reminds everyone to use extreme caution with any activity that could spark a fire. Even a small spark from equipment, vehicles, discarded smoking materials, or recreational activities can quickly become a fast-moving wildfire. Help protect our community by following burn restrictions, avoiding activities that create sparks in dry vegetation, and reporting any signs of smoke or fire immediately by calling 911.

MEDFORD, Ore. – Seventeen Soldiers assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment, 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, traded their weapons systems for shovels, stain brushes and weed eaters during a community service project at the Salvation Army Hope House in Medford, July 11, 2026.

Working alongside volunteers from a local business, the Soldiers dug trenches for sprinkler lines, spread bark, planted trees and shrubs with guidance from a local arborist, built walking paths, cleared weeds along the roadside and stained new benches for placement throughout the property.

"They are an organization that is helping to rehabilitate and stabilize families experiencing homelessness, and so we got the privilege of coming out here and serving them along with the team of their volunteers," said Chaplain (Capt.) Aaron McAndrews, the battalion chaplain. "It's really been a cool transformation to see it all unfold."

Since 1996, Hope House has helped people experiencing homelessness in Jackson County get back on their feet. The drug- and alcohol-free transitional living facility serves around 250 people a year, offering case management and supportive services in a structured environment. The average stay is about 10 months, though residents making progress can stay up to two years.

The timing of the project carried extra weight. Hope House recently completed construction of its Hope Lofts expansion, seven new fully furnished studio apartments, and the volunteer effort helped ready the campus for the building's dedication and grand opening, scheduled for July 17.

The connection between the Guard and Hope House came through Chris Robertson, owner of Invictus Protection Agency, a local security company, and a former member of the battalion's Alpha Company who deployed with the unit to Iraq from 2009 to 2010 and to Afghanistan from 2014 to 2015. Robertson reached out to 1st Sgt. Jeremy Warren, the first sergeant for Headquarters and Headquarters Company, who told him the unit had been looking for service opportunities.

"I'm just a local businessman that saw a program that I liked, and I wanted to do something to help it," Robertson said. "When I was walking through, I saw some things that just needed labor and maintenance, and I thought, what better way to get that done than calling the Guard?"

For at least one Soldier, the work was familiar territory. Sgt. Donovon Pavloff, a mortarman with the battalion, owns a landscaping company in Days Creek that services Roseburg and Douglas County. On Saturday, he put his civilian trade to work for the community, installing irrigation valves and helping guide the landscaping effort.

"People who have been homeless that are really ready to get a fresh start in life can come and stay here," said Maj. Randy Mulch, who oversees the Salvation Army's work in Jackson County with his wife. "They meet with their counselor weekly, make life goals, learn life skills, pay off bad debts, get a job, save up money, get connected with our community and get back into life."

Released photos:

260711-Z-ZJ128-2001

U.S. Army Sgt. Bradley Daniels, left, a member of the sniper section, and Sgt. Donovon Pavloff, a mortarman, both assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment, 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, kneel beside a newly installed irrigation valve during a community service project at the Salvation Army Hope House in Medford, Ore., July 11, 2026. Pavloff, who owns a landscaping company in Days Creek, Ore., brought his civilian trade to the volunteer effort, which helped prepare the campus for the July 17 dedication of seven new studio apartments. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

260711-Z-ZJ128-2002

U.S. Army Chaplain (Capt.) Aaron McAndrews, the battalion chaplain for 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment, 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, shovels mulch onto a newly planted area during a community service project at the Salvation Army Hope House in Medford, Ore., July 11, 2026. Seventeen Soldiers from the battalion's Headquarters and Headquarters Company joined community volunteers to landscape the property ahead of the July 17 dedication of seven new studio apartments. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

260711-Z-ZJ128-2003

U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment, 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, place drip irrigation lines and spread mulch through newly planted beds during a community service project at the Salvation Army Hope House in Medford, Ore., July 11, 2026. Seventeen Soldiers from the company joined community volunteers to landscape the property ahead of the July 17 dedication of seven new studio

apartments. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

260711-Z-ZJ128-2004

U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment, 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, gather with community volunteers and Salvation Army staff in front of seven newly completed studio apartments following a community service project at the Salvation Army Hope House in Medford, Ore., July 11, 2026. The volunteer effort helped prepare the campus for the building's dedication and grand opening, scheduled for July 17. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon State Fire Marshal is mobilizing its Green Incident Management Team and four structural task forces to the Olive Butte Fire in Grant County. Saturday evening, the Grant County Sheriff’s Office issued a Level 3 evacuation notice for the town of Granite. The evacuation notices were issued due to rapidly changing conditions.

The state fire marshal is sending three structural protection task forces from Clackamas, Lane, and Washington counties Saturday evening, with more resources arriving Sunday. These resources will work to protect life and property near the fire.

“While our wildland partners focus on the perimeter of the fire itself, our resources will work to protect homes and critical infrastructure,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Travis Medema said. “This partnership is vital as we face what has been a very busy weekend for firefighters across the state.”

Those looking for evacuation information can follow the Grant County Emergency Management page or the Oregon Department of Emergency Management's RAPTOR Dashboard.

The Oregon State Fire Marshal Green Incident Management Team will be in unified command with Northwest Team 12.

Saturday night, Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act for the fire, allowing the Oregon State Fire Marshal to mobilize resources through the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System. This is the second time the Emergency Conflagration Act has been invoked in 2026.

About the Oregon State Fire Marshal  
The Oregon State Fire Marshal became an independent state agency in July 2023. The agency is dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The OSFM works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office. 

HAPPY VALLEY, Ore. – U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Lee G. Smith, Command Senior Enlisted Leader for the Oregon National Guard, formally retired from military service after 33 years of commitment to the nation in a ceremony held in his honor at Camp Withycombe in Happy Valley, Oregon, on July 11, 2026. He was the principal advisor to the Adjutant General, responsible for providing the State of Oregon and the United States with a ready force of more than 7,000 Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen.

Command Sgt. Maj. Smith joined the Army National Guard in 1993, with his first assignment in Alpha Battery, 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery, as a Cannon Crewmember. The presiding officer for his ceremony was Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon.

“From his first moments in senior enlisted leadership, he knew his job. Not to be the loudest voice in the room but the most representative,” Gronewold said, describing Smith’s leadership abilities. “Three years ago, when we introduced our organizational values: Being Connected, Being Competent, Being Committed - Sergeant Major Smith turned them into a framework for how we mentor senior enlisted leaders.”

Gronewold also credited Smith’s leadership with helping retain and add new service members to the Oregon National Guard.

“This last year, the Oregon Air National Guard had its strongest recruiting years since the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Oregon Army National Guard was recognized and awarded for the best retention of all 20 medium-sized states in the nation.”

Smith credited past leaders and fellow soldiers for his development, which culminated in his position as the Command Senior Enlisted Leader over the past three years of service in the Oregon National Guard, during his remarks to attendees.

“When people talk about leadership and often think it’s about making decisions, giving directions, and telling people what to do,” Smith said, explaining his career in military leadership. “Those things matter, but I learned that some of the most important leadership modes are simpler than that. Some leadership is just sitting down with someone and finding out who they are…if you want your organization to be better, ask yourself one simple question. Do you really know your people? Do they really know you?

-30-

Released Images:

260711-Z-CH590-1085: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon National Guard, delivers formal remarks to attendees at the retirement ceremony of Command Sgt. Maj. Lee G. Smith, Command Senior Enlisted Leader for the Oregon National Guard, on July 11, 2026, at Camp Withycombe in Happy Valley, Oregon. Gronewold was the presiding officer for the ceremony, presenting Smith with both The Legion of Merit Medal and the Oregon Distinguished Service Medal for his 33 years of military service to the State of Oregon and the nation. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260711-Z-CH590-1017: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon National Guard, presents the Oregon Distinguished Service Medal to Army National Guard Command Sgt. Maj. Lee G. Smith during his formal retirement after 33 years of military service on July 11, 2026, at Camp Withycombe in Happy Valley, Oregon. Smith served his last three years as the Command Senior Enlisted Leader for the Oregon National Guard. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260711-Z-CH590-1013: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon National Guard, presents The Legion of Merit Medal to Army National Guard Command Sgt. Maj. Lee G. Smith during his formal retirement after 33 years of military service on July 11, 2026, at Camp Withycombe in Happy Valley, Oregon. Smith served his last three years as the Command Senior Enlisted Leader for the Oregon National Guard. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260711-Z-CH590-1193 and 1219: U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Lee G. Smith addressed his family, friends, and coworkers during his retirement ceremony at Camp Withycombe in Happy Valley, Oregon, on July 11, 2026. For the past three years of military service, Smith was the Command Senior Enlisted Leader for the Oregon National Guard. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260711-Z-CH590-1076: Oregon Army National Guard Command Sgt. Maj. Robert Bertilson (left) presents a retirement gift Shadow Box to Command Sgt. Lee. G. Smith (right) during his formal retirement ceremony, held at Camp Withycombe in Happy Valley, Oregon, on July 11, 2026. Smith served as the Command Senior Enlisted Leader for the Oregon National Guard during his last three years of military service. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

GRANT COUNTY, Ore. (11 July 2026) – On Friday, July 10, 2026, at approximately 3:30 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Highway 395 near milepost 15 in Grant County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a blue Toyota Prius, operated by a 17-year-old female, was traveling northbound at a high rate of speed when it failed to negotiate a curve and skidded across the southbound lane, crossed the gravel shoulder, and traveled down a steep embankment.

A 16-year-old female passenger in the Toyota was ejected from the vehicle and declared deceased at the scene. The passenger is not believed to have been wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.

The operator of the vehicle was transported to an area hospital with minor injuries.

  
The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation.

Impairment is not believed to have been a contributing factor in the crash. 

OSP was assisted by the Grant County Sheriff’s Office, Blue Mountain Hospital Ambulance, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

At approximately 8:40 p.m., the Albany Fire Department responded to a reported commercial structure fire at the Arauco manufacturing facility, located at 2550 NE Old Salem Road. A fire was reported on the roof of the facility, which manufactures engineered wood products, including particleboard.

Fire crews arrived to find active fire burning on the roof of the large industrial building and extending into several large air ducts within the facility. Fire suppression efforts were complicated by the size of the structure, the challenges associated with safely accessing the fire area, and the need to extend hose lines long distances to reach the seat of the fire. 
 

Firefighters successfully confined the fire to its area of origin and the associated ductwork, preventing further extension into the facility. Crews worked for four hours to bring the fire under control and completely extinguish it. 
 

During the incident, the Albany Fire Department utilized an unmanned aerial drone equipped with an infrared camera to identify hidden hot spots and assist crews in directing extinguishment efforts. The technology significantly improved firefighters' ability to locate remaining areas of heat.

The Albany Fire Department responded with 25 personnel. Mutual aid partners from the Corvallis Fire Department assisted with a ladder truck company and provided a medic unit to maintain emergency medical coverage within the City of Albany during the incident. The Jefferson Rural Fire Protection District also responded with an engine company and a water tender to support firefighting operations.

There were no civilian or firefighter injuries reported.  The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon State Fire Marshal is mobilizing four structural task forces and its Blue Incident Management Team to the fast-moving East Evans Creek Road fire in Jackson County. The fire which sparked Friday quickly grew to over 1,500 acres and is threatening nearby homes and several communities.

The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office has levels 1, 2, & 3 evacuation notices in place. Those looking for evacuation information should follow the local sheriff’s office.

The state fire marshal task forces from Lincoln, Linn, Marion and the south coast (Coos, Curry, Lane, and Douglas counties) will join a task force from Klamath County and strike team from Douglas County mobilized Friday evening through Immediate Response to support local structural resources.

“This fire is a reminder how quickly things can change with the dry conditions we have across the state,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Chief Deputy Travis Medema said. “We have a long way to go this fire season, and I ask every Oregonian to do their part to prevent wildfires.”

The Oregon State Fire Marshal Blue Incident Management Team will be in unified command with the Oregon Department of Forestry Team 1.

Friday night, Governor Tina Kotek invoked the Emergency Conflagration Act for the fire allowing the Oregon State Fire Marshal to mobilize additional resources through the Oregon Fire Mutual Aid System. This is the first time the Emergency Conflagration Act has been invoked in 2026.

About the Oregon State Fire Marshal  
The Oregon State Fire Marshal became an independent state agency in July 2023. The agency is dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The OSFM works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office.  

CENTRAL POINT, Ore. – For the first time this year, the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has ordered a Complex Incident Management Team to manage a wildfire. The team will coordinate additional personnel and equipment assigned to the incident. This will allow ODF Southwest Oregon District firefighters to return to initial attack responsibilities across the District, which protects 1.8 million acres in Jackson and Josephine counties.

The East Evans Fire is located approximately 26 miles northeast of Medford. The Jackson County Sheriff's Office has issued Level 1, 2, and 3 evacuation notices for residents in the area, with Level 3 meaning Leave Now. The public is urged to avoid the area due to multiple road closures and heavy firefighting traffic and should continue to follow evacuation information and updates from the Jackson County Sheriff's Office.

The fire was reported at 2:41 p.m. Friday on private land protected by ODF and has since spread onto Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands. The fire is currently estimated at approximately 1,550 acres and remains active. Hot, dry conditions, combined with multiple spot fires, have been the primary drivers of the fire's growth. These conditions continue to present some of the greatest challenges for firefighters.

Crews were successful in catching two spot fires earlier in the incident, but a third spot fire established itself, gained momentum, and contributed to the fire's rapid growth, prompting the District's request for a state Incident Management Team to assist.

Cause of the fire is currently under investigation. For the latest updates on the fire Friday night or Saturday, go to the ODF Southwest Oregon District Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ODFSouthwest/

                                                                                                                  # # #

UPDATE: Crash date corrected to Wednesday, July 8, 2026. 

UMATILLA COUNTY, Ore. (10 July 2026) – On Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at approximately 8:46 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single‑vehicle fatal crash on Interstate 84 near milepost 207 in Umatilla County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a silver Ford Explorer, operated by Isaac Joseph Ciriano Jr. (50) of Pendleton, was traveling westbound on I‑84 near Pendleton when it left the roadway for an unknown reason. The vehicle rolled twice, ejecting the driver.
 

The operator (Ciriano) was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries. He later died as a result of injuries sustained in the crash.
 

The highway was impacted for approximately 30 minutes during the on‑scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by Pendleton Fire and Ambulance and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR-accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

PUBLIC SAFETY MEMORIAL FUND BOARD

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Public Safety Memorial Fund Board will hold a regular meeting on July 23, 2026, directly following the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting that begins at 9:00 am. at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE Salem. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167.

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve April 23, 2026, Meeting Minutes

3. Budget Update

   Presented by Marie Atwood

4. Captain Paul J. Bieker (DPSST #02442); Portland Fire & Rescue; Initial Application for Discretionary PSMF Benefits

   Presented by Marie Atwood

5. Firefighter Michael C. Kienzle (DPSST #34644); Redmond Fire Department; Initial Application for Discretionary PSMF Benefits

    Presented by Marie Atwood

6. Officer John Christopher Kilcullen (DPSST #35147); Eugene Police Department; Supplemental Application for Discretionary PSMF Benefits

    Presented by Marie Atwood

7. Firefighter Mark P. Ragan (DPSST #03101); Newport Fire Department; Initial Application for Discretionary PSMF Benefits

    Presented by Marie Atwood

8. Next meeting – July 23, 2026, directly following the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting at 9:00 a.m.

Administrative Announcement

This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law and it will be recorded. 

DPSST provides reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access for people with disabilities and those with limited English proficiency. To request a sign language interpreter, translation services, or other accommodations, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or at nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

DPSST proporciona acomodaciones rasonables para asegurar el acceso igual para personas con descapacidades y para personas con competencia limitada de inglés. Para pedir un interprete de lengua de señas, servicios de traducción, u otras acomodaciones, por favor de contactar a Juan Lopez marcando al (503) 551-3167, o a nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, al menos de 48 horas antes de la reunión.

APPLICANT REVIEW COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Applicant Review Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez (503) 551-3167.

To view the Applicant Review Committee's live-stream and other recorded videos, please visit DPSST’s official YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve June 24, 2026, Meeting Minutes

3. Jesse Peacock, DPSST No. 66763; DOC/Eastern Oregon Correctional Institution

    Presented by Victor Sanchez

4. Inquiry Closure Memos – Information Only

    Presented by Victor Sanchez

5. Next Applicant Review Committee Meeting – August 26, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.

Administrative Announcement

This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law and it will be recorded. Deliberation of issues will only be conducted by Applicant Review Committee members unless permitted by the Chair. Individuals who engage in disruptive behavior that impedes official business will be asked to stop being disruptive or leave the meeting. Additional measures may be taken to have disruptive individuals removed if their continued presence poses a safety risk to the other persons in the room or makes it impossible to continue the meeting.

DPSST provides reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access for people with disabilities and those with limited English proficiency. To request a sign language interpreter, translation services, or other accommodations, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or at nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

DPSST proporciona acomodaciones rasonables para asegurar el acceso igual para personas con descapacidades y para personas con competencia limitada de inglés. Para pedir un interprete de lengua de señas, servicios de traducción, u otras acomodaciones, por favor de contactar a Juan Lopez marcando al (503) 551-3167, o a nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, al menos de 48 horas antes de la reunión.

BOARD ON PUBLIC SAFETY STANDARDS AND TRAINING

MEETING SCHEDULED

Undersheriff Micah Smith reports on July 9, 2026, at approximately 1458 hours, the Linn County Sheriff's Office was notified of a missing climber on Mount Washington. Robert "Bob" Pickering, age 77 of Nevada, was last seen ascending solo near the summit. A climbing guide that was leading clients on the mountain nearby reported hearing a rockslide on the east side of the summit shortly after seeing Pickering pass their location.

Linn County Search and Rescue Team, along with the U.S. Forest Service, responded to the remote area while a helicopter from the Oregon Army National Guard conducted an aerial search. At approximately 1730 hours, the helicopter crew located an individual matching Pickering's description approximately 200 feet below the summit. It appeared Pickering suffered a fatal fall from near the summit to where he came to rest, and due to steep and hazardous terrain, rescue crews were unable to safely approach for recovery that evening.

This morning Linn County Search and Rescue, along with Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Mountain Rescue Unit, began attempts to reach Pickering and assess recovery options.

The Linn County Sheriff's Office thanks the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office, the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office (Nevada), the Oregon Army National Guard, the U.S. Forest Service, and the Oregon Department of Emergency Management for their continued assistance with this operation.

The Linn County Sheriff's Office extends its condolences to the family and friends of Robert Pickering during this difficult time.

July 10, 2026

Media contact: Erica Heartquist,  PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory issued for Pettit Resevoir July 10

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory today for Pettit Reservoir due to a combination of factors, including elevated microcystin levels, that indicate a recreational health risk. A recreational use health precaution has been in place since June 24th due to the presence of a visible bloom. The reservoir is in Marion County.

People should avoid swimming and other water activities with a high risk of swallowing water or inhaling water droplets in areas of the lake where blooms are present. Ingestion or inhalation of water is the exposure route of concern. Toxins are not absorbed through the skin. However, those with skin sensitivities may get a puffy red rash.

OHA’s RUVs are designed to protect the most vulnerable, including children, who have a higher activity level and are more likely to swallow water while recreating.

OHA encourages people to visit Pettit Reservoir and enjoy activities such as fishing, camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, bird watching, canoeing, and kayaking. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray. Sprays could lead to the risk of inhaling cyanotoxins.

Drinking water

Drinking water directly from areas of the lake affected by a bloom is especially dangerous. Toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating water with camping-style filters. Contact campground management or the local health department with questions about water available at nearby campgrounds or day use areas.

Not all private treatment systems are effective at removing cyanotoxins. People who do not use a well or public water system and draw in-home water directly from an affected area are advised to use an alternative water source for drinking and cooking.

Symptoms for people, pets

Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure because of their size, level of activity, and likelihood of swallowing water.

For people, exposure to cyanotoxins can be serious and cause a range of symptoms. Symptoms may be similar to food poisoning such as stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Symptoms may also be more serious, such as numbness, tingling, dizziness and shortness of breath. These symptoms may require medical attention.

Dogs can get extremely ill and even die within minutes to hours of exposure to cyanotoxins by drinking the water, licking their fur, or eating the toxins from floating mats or dried crusts along the shore. This is regardless of whether a recreational use health advisory in place. Symptoms in dogs can include difficulty walking, seizures, lethargy, and loss of appetite, and more.  If a dog exhibits symptoms, veterinary treatment should be sought as quickly as possible. OHA recommends keeping dogs on leashes, away from affected water and mat material, to help reduce the chance of exposure.

Fishing

Fish caught from areas where cyanobacteria blooms are present may pose unknown health risks, so OHA recommends not eating fish from those areas. Those who decide to eat the fish should remove fat, skin and organs, where toxins are more likely to build up, before cooking or freezing. Fillets should also be rinsed with clean water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

###

UPDATE – Missing Camper Located Safe

On July 9, 2026, at approximately 8:42 p.m., members of Benton County Search and Rescue, working under the direction of the Marion County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue command, located 68-year-old John Nelson alive in a deep drainage near the South Breitenbush Trail. This trail has remained closed since the 2020 wildfires.

The area is heavily impacted by downed trees and burned timber, making access extremely difficult for rescuers. Nelson was located approximately five miles by trail from Russell Lake.

Earlier in the day, the United States Forest Service (USFS) assisted by deploying crews to the area and making significant progress clearing the trail, allowing search teams to safely reach Nelson's location.

Due to the rugged terrain and Nelson's condition, he was unable to hike out. Marion County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue volunteers, alongside the original Benton County Search and Rescue team, remained with him overnight. At approximately 11:00 a.m. today, Nelson was safely evacuated by an Oregon Army National Guard Black Hawk helicopter to a nearby landing zone, where he was evaluated by medics before being reunited with his family and returning home.

The Marion County Sheriff's Office extends its sincere appreciation to the more than 100 Search and Rescue volunteers, partner agencies, the United States Forest Service, and everyone who assisted throughout this operation. We also want to recognize the Willamette Valley First Responder Chaplains (WVFRC), especially Chaplain Mitch, who remained with search personnel throughout the operation, providing support to responders during the search.

"This incident is a reminder of how quickly conditions can change in remote wilderness areas," said Sgt. Garrett Olson of the Marion County Sheriff's Office. "Whenever you're hiking or camping, stay with your hiking partner, let someone know your plans, and carry a GPS communication device or emergency beacon capable of sending an emergency notification. Those simple steps can make a significant difference during a rescue."

Sheriff Hunter also expressed his gratitude to everyone involved in the successful rescue.

"This outcome is a testament to the dedication, professionalism, and perseverance of our Search and Rescue volunteers and our many partner agencies," said Sheriff Hunter. "For days, these teams worked tirelessly in incredibly difficult terrain with one shared goal—to bring John home safely. We are incredibly grateful for their commitment, and we're thankful this search ended with a successful rescue."

The Marion County Sheriff's Office also appreciates the community for sharing information, spreading awareness during the search, and providing information about people who had been in the area. The public's assistance played an important role in supporting this operation.

SALEM, Ore. — The Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee meets virtually at 3 p.m. on Thursday, July 16. To join, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda.

Agenda items will include:

• Process for final Western Oregon State Forests Management Plan approval
  • Public comment overview
  • Plan implementation timeline and process

Public comment is scheduled at the beginning of the meeting. To submit written comment, email ftlac.comment@odf.oregon.gov. Written comments sent at least 48 hours before the meeting will give the FTLAC time to review and consider information. Comments submitted after that window of time will be sent to the FTLAC after the meeting, entered into the record and posted online. Comments are not accepted after the meeting concludes.

The Forest Trust Land Advisory Committee is comprised of seven county commissioners representing 15 Oregon counties where state forestlands are located. The FTLAC is a statutorily established committee that advises the Board of Forestry on matters related to forestland managed by ODF. View more information on the FTLAC webpage.

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-945-7200 or by email at ftlac.comment@odf.oregon.gov.

State of Oregon v. Richard M. Pennise

Marion County Circuit Court Case #26CR29450

Salem, OR - July 10, 2026 – The Honorable Marion County Circuit Court Judge James Edmonds this week sentenced Richard Pennise (age 52), to two months in the Department of Corrections and 36 months of supervised probation. Pennise pled guilty to three counts of Bias Crime in the First Degree, a Class C felony.

The incident occurred in May of this year, when Gervais Police Chief Robert Morris, responded to a complaint at a Gervais home. The victim reported that her neighbor, Pennise, had repeatedly directed racial slurs at her and her family and threatened to kill all of them. The conduct had been occurring on a nearly daily basis, with such severity that the victim kept her younger children from playing outside when Pennise was home.

When Chief Morris arrived in the area, he could hear the Pennise shouting racial slurs at the victim, her husband, and their children as they cleaned their car in the driveway. Pennise, whose behavior was increasing in severity, also threatened to assault them.  Specifically, in the weeks prior to the incident to which he pled guilty, Pennise threatened the victim's older daughter and her boyfriend, made racially charged threats about their Hispanic ethnicity, and said words to the effect of "come and get this."

“We all deserve to feel safe, but especially at our own homes,” said District Attorney-elect Brendan Murphy. “Hate crimes, stemming from bias and prejudice, will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.”

This state was represented in this case by Deputy District Attorney Michael Kummerman. The Marion County DA’s Office wishes to thank the Gervais Police Department for their work, which contributed to the successful prosecution of this case.

###

Oregon Heritage, a division of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, awarded 20 grants totaling $300,000 for historic properties and archaeology projects. Seven of the grants were awarded in the Diamonds in the Rough category. This grant funds façade enhancements that restore the historic character of the property. The other 13 grants were in the Preserving Oregon category for properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places and for archaeology projects.
 

Funded projects:

• Façade restoration grants in Hood River, Portland, Stayton, Madras, Oregon City and Weston.
• One archaeology project:
  • City of Salem will develop a comprehensive inventory and management plan for cultural resources, specifically focusing on identification and protection of cultural landscapes.
• Preservation of 12 historic properties:
  • Historic Town Hall, Talent
  • Train Depot, Grand Ronde
  • Santiam Pass Ski Lodge, Linn County
  • Egbert Home at Philip Foster Farm, Clackamas County
  • First Bank Building, Vale
  • Administrative Lodge, Maxville Townsite, Wallowa
  • Celia’s House, Medford
  • Dr. Brentano House, St. Paul
  • Petersen Rock Garden Museum Building, Deschutes County
  • Barn and Storage Buildings, Springfield
  • Thomas Kay Woolen Mill, Willamette Heritage Center, Salem
  • EM&M Building, Enterprise

These grants are approved by the State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation, a nine-member group that reviews nominations to the National Register of Historic Places. The members are professionally recognized in the fields of history, architecture, archaeology and other related disciplines.

For more information about the grant program, visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Kuri Gill at i.gill@oprd.oregon.gov">Kuri.gill@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-383-6787.

The Marion County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue (SAR) team continues its search for 68-year-old John D. Nelson, who was reported overdue after a hiking trip in the Mt. Jefferson Wilderness.

John and his longtime hiking partner of more than 40 years began their trip from the Whitewater Trailhead on Monday, July 6, 2026, and camped overnight at Russell Lake. At approximately 7:15 a.m. on Tuesday, July 7, John left Russell Lake alone. When he failed to return as expected, he was reported overdue at approximately 12:00 p.m. that day.

John is described as:

• 68 years old
• 6'1" tall
• Approximately 200 pounds
• Last seen wearing a light blue button-down shirt, blue jacket, blue jeans, and athletic shoes
• Carrying a light blue day pack

John is a retired medical doctor with prior hiking experience, including summiting Mount Jefferson approximately 20 years ago.

Search efforts have continued each day in the rugged wilderness surrounding Russell Lake and nearby trail systems and will continue. Resources deployed include multiple ground search teams and numerous air assets, including a Black Hawk helicopter from the Oregon Army National Guard.

Search personnel by day:

• Tuesday: 31 searchers
• Wednesday: 42 searchers
• Thursday: 55 searchers

The Marion County Sheriff's Office is grateful for the assistance of the many agencies supporting this effort, including Marion County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue, Willamette Valley Communications Center (WVCC), METCOM, the U.S. Forest Service, Linn County Sheriff's Office and Search and Rescue, Multnomah County Sheriff's Office Air Unit, Clackamas County Sheriff's Office Air Unit, Oregon Army National Guard, Salem Police Department Detectives, the FBI, Deschutes County Search and Rescue, Benton County Search and Rescue, Eugene Mountain Rescue, and Idanha-Detroit Fire District.

We continue to ask anyone who was in the Russell Lake, Whitewater Trailhead, or Pacific Crest Trail between Breitenbush Lake and Pamelia Lake over the past several days to contact the Marion County Sheriff's Office if they believe they may have seen John or have any information that could assist search efforts. Even the smallest detail may be helpful.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Marion County Dispatch Center at 503-588-5032.

We also ask the public to avoid entering the active search area so search teams can safely and effectively continue their operations.

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Mexican national was sentenced to federal prison yesterday for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine in the Portland area, the Oregon coast, and Olympia, Washington, leading to the murder of a victim who owed a drug debt.

Fernando Adolip Cruz-Lerma, 25, was sentenced to 168 months in federal prison and five years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay over $3,000 in restitution.

According to court documents, in April and May 2019, Cruz-Lerma conspired with others to engage in drug trafficking. In April, Cruz-Lerma transported a victim from the state of Washington to Clackamas County due to a drug debt that the victim owed to members of the drug trafficking conspiracy. The victim was killed by members of the drug trafficking conspiracy in furtherance of the conspiracy. Cruz-Lerma assisted with leaving the victim’s body along a rural road in Clackamas County after the victim had been killed.

In May 2019, Cruz-Lerma distributed approximately two pounds of methamphetamine. He returned to Mexico the following month. 

In May 2023, Cruz-Lerma’s co-conspirator, Marcos Alonso Castillo-Bernal, was sentenced to 26 years of imprisonment. A few days after that sentencing hearing, Cruz-Lerma flew from Mexico to Calgary, Canada, and was arrested by Canadian authorities on the arrest warrant issued in the District of Oregon. 

On June 6, 2023, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a superseding indictment charging Cruz-Lerma with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute controlled substances and distribution of methamphetamine. On April 7, 2026, Cruz-Lerma pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute and distributing controlled substances.

U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon made the announcement.

This case was investigated by the DEA, the FBI, the Portland Police Bureau, the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, the Clackamas County Interagency Task Force (CCITF) and the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office Homicide and Violent Crimes Unit. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon is prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with Canadian authorities to secure the arrest and July 2024 extradition of Cruz-Lerma from Canada.

CCITF, led by the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, works to disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking organizations operating in and around Clackamas County, and reduce illegal drugs and related crimes throughout the community. The task force is comprised of members from the Canby Police Department, Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, the FBI, and the Oregon National Guard Counterdrug Task Force. CCITF is supported by our community with the passage of the Public Safety Levy and grant funding from the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program.

This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Portland comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, USMS, IRS-CI, ATF, USPIS, CBP, TSA, U.S. Coast Guard, Oregon Air, Army National Guard Counterdrug program, and Oregon-Idaho HIDTA with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

# # #

Video available for download: https://vimeo.com/1208577865?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci

JCSO Case 26-3293

JACKSONVILLE, Ore. - Illegal Marijuana Enforcement Team (IMET) detectives served a search warrant Thursday, July 9 at a black-market cannabis grow in the 100 block of Hogan Road near rural Applegate outside of Jacksonville. IMET detectives seized approximately 1,300 marijuana plants, 1/2 lb. of psilocybin mushrooms, and 3 ½ lbs. of THC extract.

There was no licensing for any type of cannabis growing, handling, or processing at this location. IMET was assisted by Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and Oregon State Police (OSP). Oregon Water Resources Department and Jackson County Code Enforcement responded to the scene to conduct investigations.

While regulatory agencies investigate permitted cannabis operations, IMET is focusing on the black-market marijuana trade in the Rogue Valley. IMET is a multi-agency task force funded by a grant from the Oregon Criminal Justice Commission. The task force includes personnel from JCSO, OSP, and the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office.

In coordination with the Governor’s Office and the Oregon Council on Developmental Disabilities (OCDD), the Oregon Department of Human Service’s Office of Developmental Disabilities Services (ODDS) is happy to announce that OCDD has selected Brent Watkins to be its new executive director.

Brent has 31 years of experience working with the I/DD community in Oregon and Utah. He spent the first 12 years of his career working for provider agencies in various roles. He worked as a direct support professional, house manager and director of residential services. For the last 19 years, Brent worked for ODDS. He was essential in developing ODDS’ statewide quality assurance process. He managed the ODDS Quality Assurance Unit for six years. For the last two years, Brent served as interim executive director of OCDD.

Brent did his undergraduate studies at Brigham Young University. He has a Master of Business Administration from George Fox University.

The council selected Brent after an open recruitment process with multiple rounds of interview panels. As OCDD director, Brent will continue to work with the council to carry out their five-year state plan. He will lead their work to improve the state’s service system and promote changes that expand inclusion and opportunities for individuals with I/DD.

To learn more about the council, visit the OCDD website.

Salem, Ore. – A $3.2 million Oregon’s Game Megabucks ticket sold by a Prineville store earned the family-owned business a $32,000 bonus. 

R & R Grocery and Sporting Goods at 940 SE Combs Road in Prineville sold the winning ticket in the June 6, 2026 drawing. The prize winner is from Prineville and wanted to remain anonymous. Store owners Debi and Dennis Morton took over the store four years ago and say it’s the biggest win they’ve experienced. 

“I’ve been telling regulars, it’s our turn,” said Debi Morton. “So now, I’m telling everyone we’re going to concentrate on Scratch-its because we’re due for a big win there. I really believe that I manifested this.” 

R & R Grocery, known by locals for its homemade fried chicken, has been an Oregon Lottery retailer since 2005. The Mortons say they shared some of the bonus money with the store’s nine employees, made a charity donation, and the rest is being saved for future business expenses.

“Our goal is to make sure when people come to our store, they are happy when they leave,” she said. “If that’s with $3.2 million, then so be it.”

Oregon’s Game Megabucks has some of the most favorable big prize jackpot game odds in the world. In April, two tickets matched the winning numbers and the $11.1 million Megabucks jackpot was split. The jackpot resets to $1 million after someone wins.  

The Oregon Lottery recommends that you sign the back of your ticket to ensure you can claim any prize. In the event of winning a jackpot, players should consult with a trusted financial planner or similar professional to develop a plan for their winnings. Players have one year from the date of a drawing to claim their prize. 

Media can find photos from today's Prineville celebration here.  

Since the Oregon Lottery began selling tickets on April 25, 1985, it has earned more than $17.8 billion for economic development, public schools, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org. 

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, is thankful for the community support to find Jaylynn O’Hara.

Sometimes when a child is missing, they may be in significant danger and ODHS may need to locate them to assess and support their safety. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and assess their safety, media alerts will be issued in some circumstances. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

Report suspected child abuse to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233). This toll-free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS CURRICULUM ADVISORY COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

HOW TO DISPLAY YOUR HOUSE NUMBER

Having visible house numbers to identify your address is important for guests, mail delivery, and of course, emergency personnel. It is much harder for emergency responders to find your home if your house number is not clearly displayed. Depending on the lighting and placement, your house numbers may not be visible from the street, especially at night. A poorly placed number can cost precious time in an emergency. Consider the following guidelines to help increase visibility as you display your house number.

On Your House

1. The number should be posted so that it is visible from both directions of street travel.
2. Trees, bushes, and other debris should not block visibility from the road.
3. Numbers should be placed above eye level, near the front door and well-lit at night.
4. Avoid placing numbers away from the front door such as above garage doors.

On Your Mailbox

1. Remember to mark both sides and the front of your mailbox. Do not use your mailbox as the only means of identification for your house. Numbers on the mailbox door may be great for your mail carrier, but they can be difficult to be seen by drivers during an emergency.
2. The numbers on the mailbox need to be highly visible. Remember to use high-contrast stickers or paint when adding your numbers to the mailbox. White numbers on a black mailbox are a great choice for visibility. Shiny silver numbers on a black mailbox are NOT very visible.
3. Another high-visibility option is to mount a sign above or below the mailbox. Again, use contrasting colors such as white on black.
4. If your mailbox is not in front of your house or near your driveway, emergency responders cannot use this to locate you. To help emergency responders locate your house faster, place your house number on your house or on a signpost in your yard.

Address Signs

1. The bigger, the better. The numbers should be at least four inches tall if displayed on a house or sign. Use boldface type that is wide.
2. Address signs should be placed about two feet from the driveway in the direction of the house.
3. Pick a color that will contrast with the background. If your house is a dark color, the address sign should be light so that the number stands out and can be viewed from the street. For example, a black number is perfect on a white house. A white number will also show clearly on a brick house.
4. Ensure the address sign is well-lit, especially at night. 
5. Use caution with brass or bronze numbers as they are difficult to see on many backgrounds.

Following these guidelines can save valuable time in the event of an emergency by allowing emergency responders to find your home faster. Help us help you!

For more information and tips visit our website at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon.

###

The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs has expanded its Oregon Veterans Educational Bridge Grant (VEBG) Program, increasing the amount of funding available per applicant and greatly expanding eligibility for veterans facing challenges in completing their educational or vocational goals.

The VEBG was established by the Oregon Legislature in 2019 to provide financial assistance grants to eligible veterans to alleviate financial stress during a gap period when required courses or training hours are unavailable, allowing them to remain enrolled in school or apprenticeship training.

The original lifetime maximum grant award was capped at $5,000; however, with the Oregon Legislature's passage of House Bill 4132 earlier this year, that amount has been doubled to $10,000 beginning July 1, 2026. The Legislature also expanded eligibility to include veterans experiencing financial hardships that could endanger their ability to remain enrolled in a degree, apprenticeship or training program.

Eligibility was previously limited to veterans who could not complete their programs due to the unavailability of required courses or training hours, or because of outstanding student debt preventing continued enrollment.

The Veterans Educational Bridge Grant is available to Oregon resident veterans enrolled in eligible education and training programs throughout the state, including degree programs approved for federal GI Bill® benefits, licensed private career schools, registered apprenticeships and qualifying public employer on-the-job training programs.

The program is also open to veterans who are not eligible for federal GI Bill® benefits, provided they meet Oregon’s definition of a veteran as outlined in Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) 407.087. 

“We know education and career training are crucial to helping transitioning veterans build stable, purposeful lives, but even a temporary financial setback can put those goals on hold,” said ODVA Director Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels. “These expanded benefits reflect Oregon’s continued commitment to removing barriers that stand between veterans and the futures they are working to build. Whether someone needs help overcoming an unexpected financial hardship, resolving a student account balance or bridging a gap in training, this program exists to help veterans stay on track and complete what they started.”

Veterans who believe they may qualify are encouraged to apply.

For more information about the Oregon Veterans Educational Bridge Grant Program or to apply, visit the ODVA Veterans Educational Bridge Grant webpage or contact the program coordinator at g@odva.oregon.gov">ebg@odva.oregon.gov. 

Over the span of a few months, the fire district has taken delivery of 3 new pieces of emergency response apparatus thanks to the generosity of our community's voters who supported a general obligation bond in May of 2024. The much needed vehicles will improve our response capabilities just in time for our busy season over the summer months. The purchases include a new ambulance which replaces a 2005 ambulance box that was remounted in 2017 allowing the unit to stay on the line as long as possible. Also included are 2 new brush trucks, 1 of which will primarily be used as an incident command vehicle staffed daily by the on duty Battalion Chief. This gives the district the ability to respond on virtually every call with immediate fire suppression capabilities with minimal staffing, while also keeping response costs lower when assisting on medical calls. The second brush rig is a specialized "super single" style type 6 brush truck which allows firefighters the best access in rural and difficult to access areas such as those found in the wildland urban interface. Increasing our fleet of brush rigs helps us to utilize the firefighting personnel that we have to our best advantage when we encounter large fires such as the recent "Wiley Fire" and the "Rice Road Fire," allowing us to protect multiple homes and attack the fire rapidly and efficiently. We are grateful for the support of our voters and want to thank them for their part in providing the necessary equipment to effectively protect our community. 

This July, the Hillsboro and Tigard Oregon Department of Human Services offices are celebrating a milestone: four years of hosting their monthly Free Food Markets district wide. Both locations are planning special anniversary events, and community members are invited to join the celebration. 

Tigard’s market also carries a meaningful legacy, having hosted ODHS’s first Free Food Market in Washington County from 2019 to 2020 just before the COVID19 pandemic limited public gatherings.

That early effort helped lay the foundation for the districtwide Free Food Markets that both Tigard and Hillsboro have been proudly hosting for the past four years. 

The ODHS Hillsboro office will celebrate during its regular market on Tuesday, July 14, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. at 5300 NE Elam Young Parkway. Hillsboro’s market is held on the second Tuesday of every month. 

The Tigard ODHS office will mark its anniversary at its monthly event on Monday, July 27, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. at 10777 SW Cascade Avenue. Its market is held every fourth Monday. 

These markets are more than a place to pick up groceries — they’re a lively gathering space where neighbors, families, staff and community partners come together. Visitors can take home fresh fruits and vegetables, pantry staples, and a variety of donated household goods such as blankets, pillows, dog food, toys and more. 

Live music from John Nunn will help set the festive tone. Also, families can pick up free diapers from PDX Diaper Bank, enjoy snacks and cold water from volunteers and watch a balloon artist at work. ODHS staff member Danielle Santilli will be there with her beloved Labrador retriever, Duke, — and Caesar the No Drama Llama is expected to make an appearance.

The Tigard and Brookwood Public Libraries along with the Washington County Library Association will offer free books and help kids sign up for the Summer Reading Program. Participants can earn restaurant coupons, free passes to the Oregon Zoo  and other fun incentives. 

People can also check out Summer EBT and Double Up Food Bucks 

ODHS staff will be available to help families find out if they qualify for Summer EBT, a program that provides grocery benefits to support school-aged children during the summer break. Eligible families receive $120 per child, and funds go even further through Double Up Food Bucks, which matches up to $20 per day spent on fresh produce at 85 farmers markets and 35 grocery stores across Oregon. 

The impact of these Free Food Markets is significant. Each month, about 130 people visit the Tigard market, benefiting roughly 400 community members. The Hillsboro market serves about 180 people, reaching an estimated 500 community members. 

“We’ve built a real sense of community around the market,” said Dawn Dzubay, Self Sufficiency Programs Analyst and one of the Tigard organizers. “People recognize each other, and they recognize the volunteers. Many regular shoppers pitch in — helping set up, passing out snacks or offering chairs to those who need one. My hope is that everyone who attends feels ownership and connection, because this market really belongs to all of us.” 

At the Hillsboro market, Ana Hernandez Garcia, ODHS Hillsboro Operations Branch Manager, said that attendance has remained steady over the years. “The school district sends flyers home about our market, so we do see a bump in attendance in the summer and around holidays.” 

These markets are possible thanks to the Oregon Food Bank, which provides food, guidance and organizational support. Several longtime community partners have been with both markets from day one, including 211info, Oregon State University Extension, and the Washington County Early Learning Hub. 

When asked why these markets matter, Dzubay said: “Because people matter. Every family deserves access to healthy food and every child deserves the chance to thrive. These markets give our community a meaningful way to come together, support one another and reduce food insecurity.” 

Additional partners that frequently join the market include: 
PDX Diaper Bank; Tigard Public Library; Programa de Promotoras de Salud; Lifeworks NW; Domestic Violence Resource Center; Centro Cultural; McKinney Vento Program; Community Action; Tigard Tualatin School District Family Resource Center & Free Preschool Registration Hub; Muslim Educational Trust; Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization (IRCO); and musician John Nunn. 

Heads up: Both market schedules will be changing in September. Stay tuned for details.  

Free Food Markets are hosted at multiple ODHS office locations in Oregon: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/food/pages/free-food-events.aspx.

Learn about food resources in Oregon: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/food/pages/default.aspx.

# # #  

UPDATE: The suspect has been identified as Hayes Miles McCloud (24) of Eatonville, Washington. 

SEASIDE, Ore. (8 July 2026) – On Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at approximately 1:36 p.m., Oregon State Police received a Be On the Lookout (BOLO) for an adult male operating a silver Toyota 4Runner who was wanted on homicide charges out of Washington state and believed to be headed into Oregon.

OSP rapidly mobilized units around the state and issued a statewide Attempt to Locate (ATL) to alert local police agencies.

Just after 5 p.m., OSP received information that the suspect was possibly on the northern Oregon coast. At approximately 6:19 p.m., officers from the Seaside Police Department located the suspect inside his vehicle on Sunset Boulevard near Greenway Drive in Seaside. Officers from the Gearhart and Cannon Beach Police Departments responded to the area to assist Seaside police. 

As officers approached the vehicle, the suspect fired at responding officers and officers from the Gearhart and Cannon Beach Police Departments returned fire. Following the exchange of gunfire, the suspect drove away. The suspect was found a short time later deceased inside the vehicle a short distance from the initial location.

There were no other reported injuries.

The involved officers will be placed on administrative leave during the investigation per standard protocol.

Pursuant to standard protocols for deadly force incidents (Senate Bill 111 protocol) the Oregon State Police is leading the investigation with the assistance of the Clatsop County Major Crimes Team.

The suspect’s identity will be released when all required notifications have been finalized.

The investigation is ongoing. No additional information about the incident is available for release at this time. Future updates will be provided by the Clatsop County District Attorney’s Office.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police

Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that is charged with protecting the people, wildlife, and natural resources in Oregon. OSP enforces traffic laws on the state’s roadways, investigates and solves crime, conducts postmortem examinations and forensic analysis, and provides background checks, and law enforcement data. The agency regulates gaming and enforces fish, wildlife, and natural resource laws. OSP is comprised of more than 1,400 staff members – including troopers, investigators, and professional staff – who provide a full range of policing and public safety services to Oregon and other law enforcement agencies throughout Oregon.