On July 11th, 2025, the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office requested assistance with an ongoing investigation at a crash scene along Highway 18 near milepost 11. Grand Ronde Tribal Police were on scene as the vehicle involved had been reported stolen the previous day in their jurisdiction. Oregon State Police and Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office were also involved in this investigation.

One suspect was apprehended on scene hours prior, however investigators were concerned by blood evidence found on scene and a trail of blood leading to the wood line nearby. Officers suspected a second suspect had been involved in the vehicle theft and subsequent crash, and were concerned for his wellbeing. The Lincoln City Police Department was contacted to assist locating the injured suspect and K9 Nix was deployed. With K9 Nix’s assistance the second suspect, 48-year-old Brian Peoples of Gladstone Oregon, was apprehended nearby with serious injuries. Peoples was transported via ambulance for emergent medical care and remained in custody. After medical care was provided, Peoples was released, and will be lodged into the Tillamook County Jail.

During the investigation, evidence of multiple felony property crimes was uncovered including crimes within Lincoln City in the hours preceding the crash. This teamwork by multiple agencies highlights how law enforcement officers work across multiple jurisdictions in pursuit of justice.

Good Job K9 Nix!

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Sahara Feldmiller, age 16, a child in foster care who went missing from Oregon City on July 6. Sahara is believed to be in danger.

ODHS asks the public for help in the effort to find Sahara and to contact 911 or local law enforcement if they believe they see her.

Sahara was last seen under the 205 Bridge at Marine Drive and is known to frequent Sandy, Oregon and Mt. Hood Area.

Name: Sahara Feldmiller  
Pronouns: she/her
Date of birth: October 16, 2008
Height: 5-foot-2
Weight: 98 pounds
Eye color: Blue
Hair color: Dark Blonde

Law Enforcement Agency Case #25-014218
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children #2055501 

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 when it is determined necessary. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

Report 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.

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You're invited to join the Rowena Wildfire Debris Management Task Force for a media tour highlighting household hazardous waste removal of the debris cleanup effort. This is an opportunity to learn more about the coordinated recovery work underway, ask questions of subject matter experts, and gather photos and footage for public awareness.

Location: Mayer State Park, 5865 Rowena River Rd, Rowena, OR 97058
Date: Tuesday, July 15, 2025
Time: 10 a.m.

Who will be available for media interviews:

• Stephanie Krell, Public Information Officer, Debris Management Task Force

• Charles Kennedy, State On-Scene Coordinator, Debris Management Task Force

• Sheriff Lane Magill, Deputy Incident Commander, Debris Management Task Force

Closed-toe shoes are required and long pants are recommended. Please bring personal protective equipment, including high-vis vests, safety glasses and N95 masks, as their availability will be limited on-site.

? Registration is required to participate. Please register by 5 p.m., Monday, July 14, 2025.

For more information or special accommodation requests, please contact Stephanie Krell, Public Information Officer, pio@co.wasco.or.us or by phone (541) 993-8173

CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Benton County Planning Commission announces the deadline to submit written testimony in the public hearing on LU-24-027, Republic Services’ application to expand the Coffin Butte Landfill. Reponses to new written evidence that was submitted during the hearings on July 8 and 9 will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Wednesday, July 16.

On July 8, the Benton County Planning Division, consultants and the applicant made presentations to the Planning Commission. The following evening, the Commission heard nearly four hours of verbal testimony from the public. Recordings of both meetings are available on the County’s YouTube channel.

No more presentations or verbal testimony will be heard.

At the conclusion of the meeting on July 9, the Commission recognized requests for a 7-day Responsive Open Record Period. The Responsive Open Record Period is for submission of written evidence, arguments or testimony for the purpose of responding to the new written evidence submitted at the July 8 and 9 hearing. Submissions should not respond to evidence introduced before those dates and should not include evidence that is not limited to responding to the written evidence submitted at the July 8 and 9 hearing.

The schedule of the remaining proceedings is as follows:

• Wednesday, July 16 at 5 p.m.: Deadline to submit responsive evidence, arguments or testimony that responds to  new written evidence submitted on July 8 and 9. Responsive written evidence, argument and testimony can be submitted by emailing it to liccomment@bentoncountyor.gov">publiccomment@bentoncountyor.gov  or delivering it  to the Planning Division/Community Development at 4500 SW Research Way, Corvallis, OR 97333 prior to July 16 at 5:00 p.m. Submissions received after that date and time will not be considered by the Planning Commission or included in the record.
• Tuesday, July 22, 6 p.m.: Planning Commission meets for deliberations and decision on LU-24-027. Members of the public can attend in person or watch online. Location: 4500 SW Research Way in Corvallis. No public testimony will be allowed.
• Tuesday, July 29, 6 p.m.: Planning Commission meets to adopt the final written decision and findings on LU-24-027. Location TBD. Members of the public can watch online.

On July 11, 2025, Lincoln County Circuit Court Presiding Judge, Sheryl Bachart, sentenced Tucker Todd (47-year-old) to 100 months in the Department of Corrections for raping a 43-year-old woman who had fallen asleep at Don Davis Park the afternoon of July 3, 2024, while visiting Newport for the holiday weekend.

On June 27, 2025, after a three-day trial, a 12-person jury found Todd guilty of Rape in the First Degree and Sexual Abuse in the Second Degree, specifically finding that the victim was unable to consent due to her mental incapacitation and physical helplessness. At trial, evidence demonstrated that Todd, an unhoused individual based out of Corvallis, had taken a bus to Newport, and was camping at Don Davis Park when he found the victim unconscious on the grassy area. At sentencing, the victim stated “Any amount that could be added onto [his sentence] would be a great comfort, slowing his return to the streets. The fact that he showed no compunction in raping me in broad daylight in a public place speaks volumes. He just doesn't care. Maybe prison will change him, but I doubt it. I worry about the next time that he finds some other helpless female and what he might do to her.”  

Prior to being sentenced, Todd stated that he could not remember the events of the day in question due to alcohol intoxication and did not agree with the verdict but apologized to the victim for what happened to her. Judge Bachart sentenced Todd to a total of 100 months in the Department of Corrections pursuant to Oregon Ballot Measure 11, which requires mandatory minimum sentences for specific violent crimes including Rape in the First Degree. Todd will not be eligible for any reduction in sentence and will also be required to register as a sex offender upon release from custody. Todd has prior convictions out of Missouri for assault in the third degree, sexual misconduct in the third degree, and failure to register as a sex offender.

This case was prosecuted by District Attorney Jenna Wallace.

On July 10, 2025, Linn County Search and Rescue (SAR) teams located the body of David Winter in the Snow Peak Area after the third continuous day of searching. David was located at the bottom of a 300-foot cliff where SAR personnel were able to retrieve him using a rope system. No foul play is suspected.

Our thoughts are with Mr. Winter’s family during this difficult time. We deeply appreciate the public’s support and the tireless efforts of all the SAR teams, K-9 units, partner agencies, and volunteers who helped in the search.

The following agencies were integral in this operation:
Linn County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue
Lane County Search and Rescue
Albany Police Department
Benton County Sheriff’s Office – Mary’s Peak Search and Rescue
Benton County Sheriff’s Office – Corvallis Mountain Rescue
Marion County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue
Region 3 K9 Search Dogs
Oregon Army National Guard

ROSEBURG, OR – A H.O.P.E. Drug Court participant has partnered with Safe at Home to provide assistance for needed items to help with the family reunification process.

HOPE Drug Court Graduate Supports Family Reunification Through Donation Drive

Rachel Stauffer, a participant in the Douglas County H.O.P.E. Drug Court program, has launched a thoughtful community project aimed at supporting families involved with child welfare reunification.  “I chose this project in hope to relieve the burden and help families that are child welfare involved connect during their reunification process. This is important to me because in my experience this process was difficult to navigate. I hope to ease awkwardness and help families bond,” said Stauffer.

Tina Temple, Safe at Home Program Manager, added, “When Family Partner volunteers first meet the families and children they will provide support, it can be uncomfortable for everyone. Family Partners come into the family home and become a part of the Child Welfare journey, and having small toys, games, or other activities helps children connect with the Family Partner. In addition, by providing family games we encourage familial connection where the family can grow together in a healthy and loving way. Safe at Home is thankful, and proud to be supported by Rachel and her HOPE drug court project. Thank you”.

Rachel is collecting items that help create positive, engaging family time, including:

• Gas cards
• Board and card games
• Books & small toys
• Activity and coloring books
• Crayons & Play-Doh
• Outdoor games & bubbles
• Puzzles & craft supplies
• Sensory toys & stickers
• And more family-friendly items

Donation drop-off locations:

• FARA – 505 SE Main Street, Roseburg
• Red Robin – 2200 NW Stewart Parkway, Roseburg

Your donations will support families working toward reunification and help children and parents rebuild meaningful connections through play and shared activities.

Support Safe at Home with Red Robin!

Mark your calendars for Tuesday, July 22, 2025 – it’s a special fundraiser day at Red Robin to benefit Safe at Home!

How to Help:

• Dine-in: Just tell your server you're there to support Safe at Home.
• Order online: Be sure to add a note that you're supporting Safe at Home when placing your order.

When you do, 20% of your meal proceeds will go directly to Safe at Home, helping provide much-needed program items for those in need.

Red Robin’s local management, long-time supporters of community efforts like the HOPE Drug Court Program, have generously partnered with us once again. Let’s show them how much community support can accomplish!

Eat well, do good — see you at Red Robin on July 22!

About Safe at Home

Safe at Home, located within FARA at 505 SE Main Street, is a local nonprofit dedicated to helping children exit foster care and safely reunify with their families. The program strengthens in-home safety by expanding family support networks during the critical transition period.  Typically, families are encouraged to identify friends or relatives who can help monitor the child's safety plan at home. However, many families face challenges such as social isolation, broken relationships, or concerns related to a volunteer’s background check.

That’s where Safe at Home Volunteer Family Partners step in.  These trained volunteers monitor in-home child safety plans for families who may not have a strong natural support system. Their role is essential in ensuring that children returning from foster care can thrive in a safe and stable home environment.

To learn more about the program or how to get involved, visit:
www.fara4kids.org/safe-at-home

The Douglas County H.O.P.E. Drug Court is proud to announce its 110th graduation ceremony, taking place on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at 5:15 p.m. at the Douglas County Fairgrounds – Cascade Hall.

Operating under the jurisdiction of the Douglas County Circuit Court and led by the Honorable Judge Robert B. Johnson, the H.O.P.E. Drug Court is a structured, compassionate alternative to traditional incarceration. Its goal is to reduce recidivism, address underlying substance use disorders, and encourage participants to look beyond past criminal behavior to envision a healthier, more promising future.

The program emphasizes personal transformation and long-term recovery, with each phase supporting individuals as they work to rebuild their lives. In the final stage, participants complete Graduate Community Projects—personal initiatives that showcase their growth, social development, and internal shift toward meaningful achievement.

This upcoming graduation marks not only a milestone for the participants but also a celebration of their resilience, accountability, and the power of second chances.  Community members are encouraged to attend and show support for those who have worked hard to reclaim their lives.

Graduate flyers are placed on the Douglas County website through the Local Public Safety Coordinating Council (LPSCC) under H.O.P.E. Drug Court, go to https://douglascountyor.gov/851/HOPE-Drug-Court

CORVALLIS, Ore. – A new life jacket loaner station is now available for public use at Irish Bend Park, located northeast of Monroe in Benton County, Oregon, along the Willamette River. This safety initiative was made possible through a partnership between the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Benton County Natural Areas & Parks, and funding support from the Benton Community Foundation.

Life jacket loaner stations like this one are part of a broader effort to improve water safety across Oregon. Stations are located at various parks along the Willamette River and other public waterways through collaborations with the Oregon State Marine Board, Nautical Safety Foundation, local agencies, and nonprofit organizations. In Benton County, stations are located at Michael’s Landing, Crystal Lake Sports Park, and Hyak Park.

Life jackets are required by law for boaters on public waterways and save lives. The loaner program allows community members to borrow a life jacket free of charge and return it after use, helping ensure everyone stays safe while enjoying the water.

Community support keeps this program going. If you would like to contribute, donations of new or gently used life jackets—or monetary donations—are welcome. Checks can be made out to “The Sheriff’s Foundation” (please note “life jackets” in the memo line) and are tax-deductible. Donations can be mailed to, or dropped off at:

Benton County Sheriff’s Office
180 NW 5th Street
Corvallis, OR 97330

Together, we can keep our waterways safer for everyone.

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On Thursday, July 10, at approximately 7:19 p.m., deputies were dispatched to reports of a motor vehicle crash involving a bicyclist near the 2000 block of Delaney Road SE in Salem.

When deputies arrived, they located the involved vehicle, a white Hyundai Accent, and the bicyclist, who had sustained life-threatening injuries. The bicyclist, identified as 46-year-old Jeremy Wanak of Salem, was transported to Salem Hospital, where he later died as a result of his injuries.

The driver of the Hyundai was identified as 28-year-old Damon Johnson of Salem. Following the initial investigation, Johnson was arrested and lodged at the Marion County Jail on the following charges:

• Manslaughter in the Second Degree
• Reckless Driving
• Reckless Endangering
• Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants (DUII)

Mr. Johnson is scheduled for arraignment today, July 11, at 2:30 p.m. at the Marion County Court Annex.

The roadway was closed for nearly six hours while the Marion County CRASH Team conducted a thorough investigation.

Our hearts go out to the family and loved ones of Jeremy Wanak during this incredibly difficult time.

We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the Marion County CRASH Team, Keizer Police Department, METCOM, WVCC, Marion County Public Works, and Willamette Valley First Responder Chaplaincy Services for their assistance and support during this incident.

On July 1, 2025, Albany Police responded to a report of a missing person.  Albany resident, David Winter, age 63, was reported to have left his residence in his vehicle without explanation and had not returned.

On the evening of July 7, 2025, Linn County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle located on Bureau of Land Management land near Snow Peak. The reporting party stated that he had found a vehicle on a secluded logging road and believed it might be associated with a missing person case reported to the Albany Police Department.

Deputies responded and confirmed the vehicle belongs to David Winter.  Winter was not with the vehicle when the deputies arrived, and his current whereabouts are unknown.  The vehicle has since been returned to the family.

The Linn County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue (SAR) team was activated and has been tirelessly conducting a search operation around the vehicle for the last two days.  This is a heavily wooded area, making search efforts difficult.  The Linn County SAR team has been assisted by SAR teams from the Lane and Benton County Sheriff’s Offices, Region 3 K9 search units, and the U.S. Army National Guard, which is assisting with aerial searches via helicopter. Unfortunately, Mr. Winter was not located.

Anyone with information about David’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Albany Police Department at 541-917-7680 and reference case number 25-03775.

Albany Police would like to thank the Linn County Sherrif’s Office, the devoted SAR teams, K-9 units and the U.S. Army National Guard for their help in this investigation.

                                                                                                                                        #  #  #

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 23, 2025, 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.

Amended Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve June 25, 2025, Meeting Minutes

3. Cody Ching, DPSST No. 66366; Gresham Police Department

    Presented by Cindy Park

4. Manuel Montoya, DPSST No. 66246; DOC/Coffee Creek Correctional Facility

    Presented by Cindy Park

5. Inquiry Closure Memos – Information Only

    Presented by Cindy Park

6. Next Applicant Review Committee Meeting – August 27, 2025, 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.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 10, 2025

Notice of Virtual Meeting

Douglas County Local Public Safety Coordinating Council (LPSCC)

Monday, July 14, 2025

(Douglas County, Ore.) A special meeting has been called for the Douglas County Local Public Safety Coordinating Council (LPSCC) for Monday, July 14, 2025, at 12:00 pm via a virtual conference format.

In compliance with ORS 192.610 to 192.690, we will accommodate any member of the public who wishes to watch the meeting via video conference or listen via phone.  Members of the public who wish to watch or listen to this meeting can do so by accessing the options listed on the attached agenda.  For more information about the LPSCC program click here to access their webpage on the county website at or contact Koree Tate LPSCC Program & Partnership Coordinator at ee.tate@douglascountyor.gov">koree.tate@douglascountyor.gov or call (541) 957-7790.

The meeting agenda is attached and can also be found at www.douglascountyor.gov.

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Program Contact: ee.tate@douglascountyor.gov">Koree Tate | LPSCC Program & Partnership Coordinator | Douglas County Juvenile Department

Phone: (541) 957-7790 | Email: ee.tate@douglascountyor.gov">koree.tate@douglascountyor.gov

Media Contact: Tamara Howell | Douglas County Emergency Communications & Community Engagement Specialist | Public Information Officer | Phone: (541) 957-4896 | Cell: (541) 670-2804 | Email: tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov

Disasters can damage critical infrastructure, leading to temporary outages in cell service, internet, and power. When communication systems go down, it's vital to be prepared with alternate ways to get emergency information and stay connected. Here’s how you can prepare and respond:

  Have a Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank Emergency Weather Radio

• Why it matters: Emergency radios can receive Emergency Alert System (EAS) broadcasts via AM/FM or NOAA Weather Radio frequencies—even when cell towers and the internet are down.
• Note: Emergency radios do not receive Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) like cell phones do. Tip: Pre-tune your radio to your local emergency broadcast station (e.g., OPB in Oregon or NOAA frequencies).

Turn On WEA Alerts on Your Phone

• Make sure Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are enabled in your phone’s settings. These alerts include evacuation orders, severe weather warnings, and other urgent notifications.
• WEA messages are sent through cell towers—if cell service is out, WEA alerts will not be delivered. This is why having backup methods like a radio is essential.

Charge Everything in Advance and Have Backup Power

• Charge phones, power banks, laptops, and rechargeable flashlights before fire weather conditions worsen.
• Consider solar-powered chargers or car chargers as backups.
• If you are sheltering in place, a generator (solar or gas powered) is helpful.

Know Your Evacuation Routes in Advance

• Save printed or downloaded evacuation maps in case you can’t access GPS or navigation apps.
• Most mapping services (like Google Maps or Apple Maps) offer the ability to “Make maps available offline.” Download your area in advance so you can navigate even if cell towers or internet access are down.
• When in doubt, call 511 or visit the TripCheck.com website if you have cell service.
• Don’t wait for a notification—if you feel unsafe, evacuate early.

Print or Write Down Critical Contacts and Info

• Phone numbers of family, neighbors, and local emergency contacts.
• Address of evacuation shelters, veterinary services (for pets/livestock), and medical facilities.
• Your own emergency plan, including meeting locations.
• Have copies of vital documents in your go-bag and take video of your property (inside and out) for insurance claims later.

If Calling 9-1-1 Over Wi-Fi or Satellite, Check Your Location Settings

If you call 9-1-1 using Wi-Fi calling or a satellite-connected phone (like an iPhone or Android), your location might not be automatically visible to dispatch. Instead, it may rely on the emergency address saved in your phone’s settings.

• Update this emergency address when you travel or relocate—especially in evacuation zones or rural areas.
• Most importantly, always tell the dispatcher exactly where you are—include your address, landmarks, road names, or mile markers to help first responders reach you quickly.

Sign Up for Alerts Before There's an Outage

• Register for OR-Alert and your county’s local alert system.
• Follow your local emergency management officials' and bookmark resources like: wildfire.oregon.gov.

 Prepare for Alert Delays or Gaps

• Know the three levels of evacuation:
  • Level 1 – Be Ready
  • Level 2 – Be Set
  • Level 3 – GO NOW
• If you hear a siren, see a neighbor evacuating, or witness fire behavior increasing—take action even if you haven’t received an alert.

 Be Your Own Info Network

• Check on neighbors, especially seniors or those with disabilities.
• Post printed signs with updates for those passing by.

In rural areas, community bulletin boards or fire stations may serve as local information points.

Support and Restoration in Progress
To help maintain emergency communications during this incident, OEM deployed eight Starlink terminals under the guidance of ESF 2 and the Statewide Interoperability Coordinator (SWIC). A Communications Technician (Jeff Perkins) was also deployed to assess connectivity needs on the ground. These Starlink terminals have been providing service to the Lake County Emergency Operations Center (EOC), Oregon State Police (OSP), Warner Creek Correctional Facility, and will soon support the town of Lakeview, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and the Lakeview Ranger Station. OEM’s Regional Coordinator (Stacey) is also on-site supporting the Lake County EOC. Coordination has been strong across local, state, and private sector partners.

Update: As of 7/10/25 at 1:47 PM, fiber service has been restored.

Reconnect When Service Returns

• Once communications are restored, check official websites:
  • Oregon.gov/oem
  • Your county emergency management page
  • TripCheck.com for road conditions
• Share verified info—not rumors—on social media or community pages.

 Prepare for Delays in Restoration

• Communication may come back in phases. Damage to fiber lines or cell towers can take time to repair.
• Continue using backup methods and stay alert for updates via radio or in-person notices.

 Final Tip:

In an emergency, CALL 9-1-1 to report life-threatening danger, not for general information. Use local non-emergency numbers or go to physical information points if needed. You can find more tips for preparing in OEM’s Be2Weeks Ready toolkit.

ROSEBURG, Ore., July 10, 2025 — Umpqua Community College (UCC) and Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), members of the Oregon Consortium for Nursing Education (OCNE), have announced a new collaboration, establishing a direct-entry pathway to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. The initiative focuses on preparing psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNP) to help address urgent health care clinician shortages in rural Oregon.

Through this streamlined, more cost-effective pathway, students can begin their education at UCC and seamlessly transition to doctoral-level studies through OHSU. Coursework is completed online while clinical learning takes place locally, creating a pathway for licensed, independent practitioners educated to serve within Douglas County.

“This collaboration builds on the OCNE model, removes common barriers like relocation and the associated costs, allowing students to stay local while earning advanced nursing degrees,” said Danielle Haskett, chief academic officer for UCC. “By training future providers who are already rooted in the region, we’re strengthening health care delivery and building a more sustainable workforce for our region.”

Clinician shortages, geographic location and an aging population impact access to care, especially rural communities, and this new pathway aims to help address this challenge. Nurse practitioners, with their nursing and advanced clinical training, are licensed to provide essential primary care services for general medicine and psychiatric care, including diagnosis, treatment, preventive and continuous care treatment plans.

The program expands UCC’s portfolio of health care education options and creates a pathway for students to receive hands-on training on UCC’s campus using the latest advanced training technologies. Students will complete the online baccalaureate in nursing and then be admitted to the PMHNP Distance Program, which is primarily online, with the flexibility to attend a few in-person lab components at an OHSU campus.

“We are excited to collaborate with UCC on this forward-thinking initiative,” said OHSU Executive Vice President and Provost Marie Chisholm-Burns, Pharm.D., Ph.D., M.P.H., M.B.A., FCCP, FASHP, FAST, FNAP, FACHE. “This collaboration reflects OHSU’s commitment to increasing access to high-quality, advanced nursing education across Oregon. By reaching students where they live and enabling them to complete meaningful clinical experiences in their home communities, we are helping grow a local, resilient health care workforce prepared to meet the diverse needs of rural populations.”

About Oregon Health & Science University
Oregon Health & Science University is Oregon's academic health center and is nationally distinguished as a research university dedicated solely to advancing health sciences. This singular purpose allows us to focus on discoveries that prevent and cure disease, on education that prepares physicians, dentists, nurses and other health professionals for the evolving health care environment, and on patient care that incorporates the latest advances. We are one of Oregon’s largest employers, operating top-ranked adult and children’s hospitals, and secure competitive research funding of more than $584 million. As a public organization, we also provide services for the most vulnerable Oregonians and outreach to improve health in communities across the state.

About Umpqua Community College
Nestled in the beautiful North Umpqua River Valley, Umpqua Community College is the regional center for higher education in Douglas County, Oregon. UCC provides high quality college degree programs, workforce development, and community learning opportunities. For more information, please visit us online at www.umpqua.edu
 

Lincoln County, OR — The Lincoln County Fire Defense Board has mobilized a specialized wildfire Task Force to assist in battling the Elk Fire, currently burning in Klamath County. The deployment was made at the request of the Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) as part of the state’s coordinated wildfire response under the Emergency Conflagration Act.

The Task Force 26 departed Lincoln County late Wednesday afternoon, July 9, expected to arrive at staging by 9:00 PM tonight and, includes personnel and equipment from the following agencies:

• Depoe Bay Fire District

• North Lincoln Fire & Rescue

• Central Oregon Coast Fire & Rescue

• East Lincoln County Fire & Rescue • Siletz Valley Fire District

• Clackamas County Fire District

The Elk Fire, sparked by dry lightning earlier this week, has burned thousands of acres in southern Oregon, prompting multiple evacuation notices and drawing a significant response from state and local fire agencies. Firefighters are working around the clock to protect lives, property, and critical infrastructure.

The Task Force includes a strike team of engines, command personnel, and support staff, with an initial deployment period of up to 14 days, subject to fire conditions and resource needs.

This mobilization is part of Oregon’s Mutual Aid System, which ensures timely support between counties and regions during large-scale incidents.

[Rowena, Ore.] – As residents return to areas impacted by the Rowena Fire, safety remains a top priority. The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), and Wasco County strongly recommend property owners not perform cleanup themselves, because of the serious toxic hazard threats posed by burned homes and outbuildings. 
 

Doing your own cleanup without proper protection puts your health at risk. Burned materials are hazardous and require more than gloves and a mask to protect your health. Buildings constructed before 2004 are likely to contain asbestos, which is carcinogenic.

If residents do decide to do their own clean-up rather than hiring a qualified contractor, they should wear appropriate personal protective equipment. 

Before entering your property:

• Wear sturdy shoes, eye goggles, heavy-duty work gloves and an N95 mask when inspecting damage.
• Watch for hazards such as unstable structures, ash pits, smoldering debris and electrical hazards including downed power lines.
• Take photos of damage for insurance and recovery documentation.

Avoid bringing ash from outside to the inside:

• Don’t let children play on or near any ash. Wash off toys before children play with them.
• Wash fruits and vegetables from your garden thoroughly before you eat them. Read the OHA Healthy Gardening fact sheet for more tips.
• Remove shoes before you enter your home or use “sticky mats” in entries and doorways to remove dust and ash from your shoes.
• Keep pets out of areas where there is any ash. Bathe them when exposed to ash.
• Wash off any ash right away if it gets on your body or clothing.

Keep indoor spaces clean from ash. Minimize other pollutants:

• Protect your home from outside air, this includes proper seals for windows and doors. Home weatherization assistance may be available for people with low income.
• Use a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) or non-ozone producing electrostatic precipitator (ESP) filter in your central air system to filter air throughout your home. There are also DYI air filter tutorials.
• Make sure any air purifier you buy has an airflow rate of at least two to three times the size of the room.
• EPA’s Guide to Air Cleaners in the Home
• California Air Resources Board-certified air filtration devices

See Oregon Health Authority’s Long-Term Wildfire Recovery Healthy Home Advice Fact Sheet for more detailed information.

Smoke may linger even after flames are out. To protect yourself and your family:

• Limit time outdoors and keep windows and doors closed.
• Use air purifiers indoors if available.
• If you have heart or lung conditions, consult your doctor about potential impacts and monitor symptoms closely.
• Visit Oregon Smoke Blog for local air quality conditions and tips.

Additional Cleanup Resources:

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is providing technical assistance and coordinating with subject matter experts to support safe debris management. Guidance on proper cleanup procedures and disposal of fire debris can be found at: https://www.oregon.gov/deq
 

Local recovery and safety resources are also available through Wasco County Emergency Management Long-term Recovery page.
 

Residents are encouraged to sign up for Wasco County Citizen Alert for the latest updates on recovery, road access, and support services.
 

For more information on state-led wildfire recovery and preparedness efforts, visit:
 wildfire.oregon.gov

Salem, OR – 07/10/2025 – Families enrolling children in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in Oregon can now choose between the Standard English Book Collection and the new Bilingual English/Spanish Book Collection. They can also select their preferred language for communication during the enrollment process.

In June, families already enrolled in the Imagination Library received an email announcing the new Bilingual English/Spanish book collection option, along with instructions on how to make the switch. Books from the new collection are expected to begin arriving in mailboxes in August.

“Regardless of the language a child knows, the joy of reading should be available for every young learner,” Governor Kotek said. “The expansion of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library with a bilingual book collection throws the door open to that opportunity much wider. This will help improve our literacy outcomes and make sure every Oregon student, regardless of where they live or where they come from, has the opportunity to develop a love of reading before they ever step into a classroom."

The introduction of the Bilingual Collection has been eagerly anticipated since the statewide expansion of the Imagination Library launched in May of 2024. Thanks to funding from the State of Oregon, through the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC), and 57 community organizations around the state, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is free for all families with children from birth to age five and available in all counties in Oregon.

“Literacy is not confined to a single language—it is nurtured through the languages children speak at home, the stories they hear, and the books they read with their families,” said Alyssa Chatterjee, DELC Director. “By offering culturally responsive and bilingual books, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Program honors the richness of every child’s linguistic and cultural identity. The addition of a Spanish language book option means more families will have access to stories in the language that connects generations. I’m thrilled knowing that for those who choose this option, bilingual books will soon arrive in their mailbox—opening doors to literacy, learning, and a lifelong love of reading.”

Introducing books to children at an early age not only sets the stage to foster a love of reading, it also prepares them to be successful in school and life. The new bilingual collection will enable the Imagination Library to connect with more children and families across the state, significantly broadening the positive literacy impacts for young Oregonians by helping more children build personal libraries than ever before.

“Every child should grow up with stories that reflect their language, culture, and identity. Multilingual kids have a superpower that we should nurture and celebrate,” emphasized Representative Ben Bowman, Chief Sponsor of the legislation that made the statewide expansion of the Imagination Library in Oregon a reality. “This new bilingual collection shows our state’s commitment to making sure every child has the tools to learn, grow, and thrive.”

The Bilingual Collection was first piloted in California in 2023 and rolled-out to five more states in 2024. Oregon is excited to be among the 16 states added in 2025. States that now have access to the Bilingual Collection include Alabama, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Missouri, Montana, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Tennessee, Washington, and West Virginia. For a full list of the 2025 bilingual book collection visit imaginationlibrary.com/usa/book-list.

The Imagination Library of Oregon is free to families. Children can be registered as early as birth to receive new, high-quality, age-appropriate books addressed to them in the mail each month until their fifth birthday. To learn more or to enroll your child, visit www.imaginationlibrary.com/oregon. For the latest Oregon specific content, follow us on Facebook and Instagram. 

About Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

Since launching in 1995, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has become the preeminent early childhood book-gifting program in the world. The flagship program of The Dollywood Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has gifted over 280 million free books in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, and The Republic of Ireland. This is achieved through funding shared by The Dollywood Foundation and Local Community and State Partners. The Imagination Library mails more than 3 million high-quality, age-appropriate books directly to children’s homes each month. Each child enrolled in the program receives one book per month from birth to age five - at no cost to families. Dolly envisioned creating a lifelong love of reading and inspiring children to Dream More, Learn More, Care More, Be More.

The program’s impact has been widely researched, and results demonstrate its positive impact on early childhood development and literacy skills. Penguin Random House is the exclusive publisher of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. For more information, please visit imaginationlibrary.com.

As temperatures rise and the risk of heat illness in the workplace increases, the Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) reminds employers to follow requirements designed to help protect workers from the hazards of extreme heat. The division offers free resources to help employers comply with requirements.
 

Under Oregon’s heat illness prevention rule, employers must implement protective measures, including  adequate water, rest, shade, acclimatization (gradual adaptation to working in the heat), communication and training, and emergency plans. The rule applies to workplaces whenever an employee is working and the heat index equals or exceeds 80 degrees Fahrenheit. More provisions apply when the heat index exceeds 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
 

“Employers need to take the dangers of high heat seriously by planning ahead, engaging their employees about the hazards, and following the heat rule’s provisions,” said Renée Stapleton, administrator for Oregon OSHA.
 

The heat illness prevention requirements apply across industries and where employers provide housing as a condition of employment. Under the Oregon Safe Employment Act, workers have a right to a safe and healthy workplace and the right to raise concerns free of retaliation. Under the law, employers must maintain safe and healthy working conditions.
 

Oregon OSHA urges employers to refresh their knowledge of the requirements:

• Key requirements for general workplaces – English/Spanish 
• Key requirements for employer-provided housing – English/Spanish

All heat illness prevention resources are available on Oregon OSHA's A-to-Z topic index page. They include a video training in English and Spanish that satisfies certain training elements of the heat rule.
 

Oregon OSHA also offers:
 

Consultation services – provides free and confidential help with safety and health programs, including how to control and eliminate hazards, and hands-on training. The services involve no fault, no citations, and no penalties.

• Phone (toll-free in Oregon): 800-922-2689
• Field offices
• Online
• Email: consult.web@dcbs.oregon.gov

Technical staff – helps employers understand requirements and how to apply them to their worksites

• Phone (toll-free in Oregon): 800-922-2689
• Online
• Email: tech.web@dcbs.oregon.gov

The Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services, which includes Oregon OSHA as a division, maintains the Multicultural Communications Program that provides outreach to communities with limited English proficiency. That outreach encompasses information about on-the-job safety and health.
 

The Ombuds Office for Oregon Workers provides help with understanding workplace safety and health rights, and workers’ compensation rights.

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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.

SALEM, Oregon—Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is creating a rulemaking advisory committee to discuss possible changes to sound and equipment standards to All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) use on public lands in Oregon.

House Bill 2232 was signed on March 19, 2025 and became effective upon passage. The bill transfers rulemaking responsibility for ATV safety equipment and noise emissions from Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) and Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD).

State parks has temporarily adopted ODOT and DEQ’s rules for 180 days under ORS 183.335(5)(a). OPRD is in the process of reviewing the previous rules and developing permanent rules.

The current rules on noise emissions vary by type of vehicle. Requests have been made for a reduced sound limit in Oregon.

Many states use 96 dBA (decibels measured using the A-weighting scale) tested at 20 inches from the exhaust at a 45-degree angle at half RPM (revolutions per minute).

The proposed changes would update definitions for ATVs and look at other safety equipment standards. The committee will meet online 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 16, 2025 to review and discuss the proposed rule changes. The meetings are open to the public and can be viewed at: https://www.youtube.com/@oprddirectorsoffice5783/streams

The meeting agenda will include discussions to review sound levels and flag requirements to be consistent with other states. Committee members, appointed by OPRD, include individuals from around the state who are members of the off-road community, law enforcement, land managers and impacted neighbors.

After the committee reviews the proposed changes and staff make updates based on feedback and recommendations, the proposed rule will be open for public comment in August 2025. More information about this rulemaking is available on the OPRD website:  https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/pages/PRP-rulemaking.aspx

Individuals who require special accommodations to view the meetings should contact Ian Caldwell, at least three days in advance of a meeting at ian.caldwell@oprd.oregon.gov

The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs has signed a formal agreement with the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians that will provide a framework for collaboration and increased resources dedicated to supporting the Tribe’s veterans in accessing their earned federal and state veterans’ benefits.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed Friday, June 27, by ODVA Director Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels and Tribal Council Chairman Delores Pigsley, with Tribal government leaders and representatives, Tribal veterans and ODVA staff gathered to commemorate the historic partnership. The formal signing was hosted at ODVA’s headquarters in Salem.

The agreement will pave the way for the establishment of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians’ first Tribal Veterans Service Officer (TVSO), which will be jointly funded by ODVA and the Tribe to serve Siletz veterans and their families.

“Oregon’s Tribal veterans have long served with honor and distinction, and it is our responsibility to ensure they receive the care and recognition they have earned,” said Dr. Daniels. “By partnering with the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, we are committing to a future where Siletz veterans are served in a way that honors their stories, their service, and their sovereign identity. We’re proud to walk alongside the Tribe in building something that will truly make a difference in the lives of their veterans and families.”

“I am excited for the future of our honored Tribal veterans and the opportunity this brings to them,” said Chairman Pigsley. “Not only to support them but to help advocate for them. This memorandum with the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is more than a collaboration or a partnership. It’s a commitment to honoring and empowering those who have served our nation. Their deep-rooted connection to the veteran community and unwavering dedication to their well-being make them a trusted and invaluable partner.”

This Memorandum of Understanding is ODVA’s sixth with Oregon’s nine federally recognized Tribes, including the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians and, most recently, the Coquille Indian Tribe in May.

Oregon’s statewide network of County and Tribal Veteran Service Offices are collaborative partnerships between the state and counties, or Tribal governments and deliver free local access to veteran benefits for veterans and their families.

Tribal Veteran Service Officers (TVSOs) are trained by ODVA and then accredited by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs through a series of regular trainings facilitated by both agencies. TVSOs provide a wide variety of benefits and services to veterans and their family members, including the development and submission of claims to the federal VA for earned veteran benefits.

To learn more about veteran benefits, resources and services near you, or to schedule a session with your local Veteran Service Officer, visit the website of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs at www.oregon.gov/odva/Services/Pages/Tribal-Veteran-Services.aspx.

Established in 1945, the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is dedicated to serving Oregon’s diverse veteran community that spans five eras of service members. ODVA administers programs and provides special advocacy and assistance in accessing earned veteran benefits across the state. Learn about veteran benefits and services, or locate a local county or tribal veteran service office online at oregon.gov/odva.

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SUMMER CRIME PREVENTION TIPS

Summer brings warmer weather, longer days, outdoor activities and, unfortunately, an increase in theft and burglaries. There are some ways you can help prevent these crimes in your communities.

• Keep vehicles locked with the windows up at all times, even when parked at home. Remove all valuables including purses, cell phones, laptop computers, gym bags, briefcases etc.

• Avoid Home Improvement scams. Beware of anyone offering to perform an unscheduled home repair or asking to gain entry into your home. Ask for identification, contact the company they say they work for to verify employment and ask for authorization for them to be at your property. Never agree to pay for home improvement services until the work has been completed. Don’t sign home improvement contracts without reading the entire contract carefully and discussing anything that isn’t clear with the company and trusted family members or friends.

• Keep doors closed and locked. This includes garages, sheds and patio doors. Burglaries from open garages, sheds and residences are more prevalent in summer months and often occur while the homeowner is outside in the backyard.

• Unattended bicycles should always be locked to something sturdy. Remember when you stop to rest, eat, or use restroom facilities, to take a few moments to secure your bicycle.

• Vacation plans? Have a trusted neighbor or friend pick up your mail. Set inside lights on a timer. Set your home alarm. Use a home security camera so you can check in while you are away. Have a neighbor keep an eye on your house and make sure to leave a contact phone number for them to reach you in case of an emergency.

Taking some simple steps now and throughout the summer months can reduce the risk of crime in your neighborhood.

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

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Last Friday, President Donald Trump signed the federal budget reconciliation bill—H.R. 1— into law. H.R. 1 extends tax cuts that were set to expire at the end of 2025, reduces federal food assistance, cuts funding for state Medicaid programs, and institutes policies that are likely to reduce Medicaid coverage.

The legislation’s deep cuts and profound structural changes to Medicaid will drive new conversations about the future of Oregon’s health care system. In the coming days, weeks, and months, we must move forward together to shape a health care landscape in this state that will be dramatically different from the one we know today. 

It is likely that you or someone you know is on Medicaid. One in three Oregonians has Medicaid (called the Oregon Health Plan) as their health insurance. If you aren’t one of those Oregonians, you might think the health care provisions in this bill won’t affect you. But Medicaid policy and budget choices matter to us all, because the health care system is propped up on a shaky foundation that blends private payments with government funding. When Medicaid falters, the structure begins to shake, risking the collapse of the entire system. 

Oregon is particularly vulnerable. For years, Oregon has intentionally maximized federal dollars to help fund the Medicaid program and expand insurance coverage. Now, with federal funding slashed, our health care system—already burdened by prescriptive and burdensome regulations, rising expenses, and payment that has not kept up with the cost of care—is at serious risk.

Oregon's health care system cannot absorb the cuts in H.R. 1 without significant disruption, and the results may be painful: service cuts, hospital and facility closures, longer wait times, and reduced access to insurance. As a state, we have hard choices to make. Now is the time for leadership. 

Some observations: 

• State Medicaid policy matters, but never more now than today. State policy and budget choices may mean the difference between having providers and hospitals in communities or not having them.
• It’s time to go back to basics. With declining resources, we must focus our resources on the most important services. But what health care services are the most important? And how do we make those decisions?  
• Regulatory relief is a necessity, and innovation is key. The state and federal regulatory environment is a barrier to innovation and cost containment. The decisions ahead will require us to revisit the dollars we are spending that do not impact patient care.   
• Providers are going to have to do hard things to survive. It’s painful in any community when a service closes, but if hospitals don’t reduce services, they may not be around at all. That is the reality many of our communities and their hospitals face. 
• In this environment, we must find structural cost savings. The multi-payer U.S. health care system results in significant resources spent on administrative costs. This includes the administrative cost of insurance, pharmacy benefit managers, and others that don’t directly deliver care. With fewer resources, we need to direct as much of the health care dollar toward patient care as possible. This may mean revisiting some of the assumptions we’ve made about our current system, necessitating a new vision for health care and the political will to execute on that vision. 

The decisions we face are wrenching. But health care stakeholders and policymakers now have an obligation to come together to navigate this new world. That will mean shared commitment and shared sacrifice. But perhaps, in this moment, we can redesign our broken system and find a better path forward. 

Last Friday, President Donald Trump signed the federal budget reconciliation bill—H.R. 1— into law. H.R. 1 extends tax cuts that were set to expire at the end of 2025, reduces federal food assistance, cuts funding for state Medicaid programs, and institutes policies that are likely to reduce Medicaid coverage.

The legislation’s deep cuts and profound structural changes to Medicaid will drive new conversations about the future of Oregon’s health care system. In the coming days, weeks, and months, we must move forward together to shape a health care landscape in this state that will be dramatically different from the one we know today. 

It is likely that you or someone you know is on Medicaid. One in three Oregonians has Medicaid (called the Oregon Health Plan) as their health insurance. If you aren’t one of those Oregonians, you might think the health care provisions in this bill won’t affect you. But Medicaid policy and budget choices matter to us all, because the health care system is propped up on a shaky foundation that blends private payments with government funding. When Medicaid falters, the structure begins to shake, risking the collapse of the entire system. 

Oregon is particularly vulnerable. For years, Oregon has intentionally maximized federal dollars to help fund the Medicaid program and expand insurance coverage. Now, with federal funding slashed, our health care system—already burdened by prescriptive and burdensome regulations, rising expenses, and payment that has not kept up with the cost of care—is at serious risk.

Oregon's health care system cannot absorb the cuts in H.R. 1 without significant disruption, and the results may be painful: service cuts, hospital and facility closures, longer wait times, and reduced access to insurance. As a state, we have hard choices to make. Now is the time for leadership. 

Some observations: 

• State Medicaid policy matters, but never more now than today. State policy and budget choices may mean the difference between having providers and hospitals in communities or not having them.
• It’s time to go back to basics. With declining resources, we must focus our resources on the most important services. But what health care services are the most important? And how do we make those decisions?  
• Regulatory relief is a necessity, and innovation is key. The state and federal regulatory environment is a barrier to innovation and cost containment. The decisions ahead will require us to revisit the dollars we are spending that do not impact patient care.   
• Providers are going to have to do hard things to survive. It’s painful in any community when a service closes, but if hospitals don’t reduce services, they may not be around at all. That is the reality many of our communities and their hospitals face. 
• In this environment, we must find structural cost savings. The multi-payer U.S. health care system results in significant resources spent on administrative costs. This includes the administrative cost of insurance, pharmacy benefit managers, and others that don’t directly deliver care. With fewer resources, we need to direct as much of the health care dollar toward patient care as possible. This may mean revisiting some of the assumptions we’ve made about our current system, necessitating a new vision for health care and the political will to execute on that vision. 

The decisions we face are wrenching. But health care stakeholders and policymakers now have an obligation to come together to navigate this new world. That will mean shared commitment and shared sacrifice. But perhaps, in this moment, we can redesign our broken system and find a better path forward. 

The Oregon Military Museum will host a ribbon cutting ceremony in celebration of the museum’s grand re-opening, July 11, at 9:30 a.m., on Camp Withycombe in Clackamas, Ore.

The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided following the ceremony.

“We are here to honor service members and to educate the public about their service,” said Kathleen Sligar, director and curator for the Oregon Military Museum. “I am so excited to see the looks on people’s faces, I think they’re going to be blown away when they walk into this space.

The exhibit galleries will be open until 12:30 p.m. for a first look at the museum’s four new exhibits:

•             We Are Oregon – Explore the people, technology, and actions that define Oregon’s military legacy on the local, national, and global stage

•             Small Arms, Big Impact – A curated collection of nearly 200 American, enemy, and ally small arms from the 1600s into the 21st century

•             History in Art – Discover artwork by and about the US Armed Forces, their provenance, and the contextual knowledge found within

•             Hall of Valor – A commemoration of the thirteen Medal of Honor recipients accredited to Oregon

The Oregon Military Museum has been closed for renovations since 2009 and will officially be open to the public Saturday, July 12.

Starting Wednesday, July 16, the museum will be open year-round, Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The Historic Park will also be open Fridays and Saturdays through September.

The Oregon Military Museum honors, shares, and preserves Oregon’s military heritage and legacy, including the Oregon National Guard, the state’s early militias, and all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Thursday, July 10, 2025 

BEND, OR — As the sun goes down, creatures begin to stir. Moths begin their nightly pollination journey. Owls glide silently through the trees on the hunt for prey. Stars blink to life as bats dip and dive for insects. On Wednesday, July 16, the High Desert Museum invites visitors to celebrate the transition from day to night in the family-friendly event, Welcome the Night. 

From 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm, go on a twilight adventure with community partners, Museum experts and local naturalists to learn about insects and bats, meet an owl and much more. The evening program encourages visitors to explore, experience and celebrate the creatures, both small and large, that thrive in the dark.

As visitors arrive, they are handed an adventure card and map that will navigate them through 17 stations located around the Museum. Visitors can get a stamp at each location before turning the card in for a chance at a raffle prize.

Inside the Museum, visitors begin their journey at the station of their choice. At the Winged Things Crafts station, kids can make moth or bat headbands before heading outside to the Meadow to play a Bat & Moth game. The Twilight Art Station invites visitors young and old to create stenciled twilight art using scratch paper. A local face painter leads a station where visitors can get their faces painted with the twilight creature of their choice.  

In the Desertarium, retired entomologist Dr. Jerry Freilich will share with visitors a vast collection of insects and the opportunity to see them magnified.  

When it’s time for a bite to eat, the Rimrock Café will be transformed into the Crepuscular Café, featuring food for purchase by Luckey’s Woodsman. A no-host bar will feature alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages.

Just outside the Desertarium, at the Red Light Green Light station, volunteers and Museum staff help visitors transition their flashlights and headlamps into night-friendly lights. The adventure continues outdoors as visitors explore the Museum trails.

At Cheney Pond, experts from the U.S. Forest Service will lead a Bat Detectives station that delves into the mystery of bats and their role in the High Desert ecosystem. Learn why bats dip and dive over water and get a closer look at how bat telemetry helps researchers track the movements and behavior of bats.

Nearby, representatives from Pollinator Pathway Bend will take visitors into the world of nighttime pollinators, such as moths, at the Pollination Station. Discover why moths are often attracted to light sources, artificial or natural, which cause them to become disoriented.

“Nocturnal wildlife thrive in a dark habitat free from light pollution,” said Donald M. Kerr Curator of Natural History Hayley Brazier, Ph.D. “Conserving dark skies is critical for nocturnal and crepuscular wildlife who depend on a dark nighttime habitat to survive.” 

As soon as the light dims and the sun hides behind the ponderosas, experts from Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory will open the telescopes. At this station, you can learn about the planets and galaxy as you gaze up into the twilight waiting for that first star to blink to life. DarkSky Oregon continues with a closer look at how light pollution affects not only our view of the stars but also the health and wellbeing of nocturnal wildlife.

Two owl encounters will take place at the E. L. Wiegand Pavilion in the Donald M. Kerr Birds of Prey Center. During the 15-minute encounters, visitors will learn from Museum wildlife staff how an owl hunts in the daytime and at night, using its large eyes and keen sense of hearing to surprise prey.  

Another stop on the adventure is the Forest at Night exhibition. Located within the Changing Forest pavilion, visitors will encounter animated representations of the High Desert’s nocturnal inhabitants on a large screen. Discover how animals with reflective eyes utilize moonlight to navigate and hunt. Gaze up at an interactive star map and explore the constellations that guide migratory birds. Learn more about the exhibition at highdesertmuseum.org/forest-at-night.  

Tickets for Welcome the Night are $10 for adults and children ages 3 and older, with a 20% discount for members. Children 2 and younger are free. Visitors are encouraged to bring headlamps or flashlights as the outdoor trails are unlit.  

Learn more about and get tickets for Welcome the Night at highdesertmuseum.org/welcome-the-night-2025. 

ABOUT THE MUSEUM: 

THE HIGH DESERT MUSEUM opened in Bend, Oregon in 1982. It brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate, was the 2019 recipient of the Western Museums Association’s Charles Redd Award for Exhibition Excellence and was a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. To learn more, visit highdesertmuseum.org and follow us on TikTok, Facebook and Instagram. 

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Salem, OR— With the halfway point of the income tax filing extension period approaching, the Oregon Department of Revenue wants to remind taxpayers who haven’t yet filed their 2024 tax return to do so as soon as they can.

“July 15 may be just the halfway point of the extension period, but for most people who haven’t yet filed their tax year 2024 return there’s no reason not to file now,” said Department of Revenue Director David Gerstenfeld.

Some people may not have filed because they didn’t have money to pay what they owe, but an extension to file is not an extension to pay any tax owed. Those who didn’t file and haven’t paid are only racking up additional late payment penalties and interest by waiting.

“Even if they can’t pay the full amount they owe, they should pay what they can as soon as they can to help lower penalties and interest,” the director said. “For those who can’t pay all they owe, filing a return offers them the opportunity to set up a payment plan with the state.”

Besides not being able to pay, people file for an extension for all kinds of reasons. Some are waiting on additional information or documents. Others are experiencing hardship in the days before the deadline and have to direct their attention elsewhere. Some people just put it off or forget.

“Whatever the reason, as soon as they have what they need, they should file,” Gerstenfeld said.

For some taxpayers, filing can mean receiving a refund.

Several free filing options and in-person tax assistance options remain available during the summer months.

One of those options is Direct File Oregon. More than 13,000 Oregon taxpayers filed their state returns with Direct File Oregon this year. Nearly 4,700 of those filers connected to Direct File Oregon after first filing their federal returns through IRS Direct File, which is still available through the end of the filing season.

So far in 2025, the department has processed more than 2.05 million of an expected 2.2 million returns. That leaves approximately 150,000 Oregon taxpayers who still need to file their tax year 2024 returns.

“Some tax situations are complex and require extra time—even months—to prepare, but most aren’t,” he said. “Filing as soon as you can makes good sense. It can save money and provide some peace of mind.”

Taxpayers with questions can call 800-356-4222 toll-free from an Oregon prefix (English or Spanish) or 503-378-4988 in Salem and outside Oregon. For TTY (hearing or speech impaired), the department accepts all relay calls.
 

The Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries (OCHC) will meet in Grand Ronde at the Chachalu Museum and Cultural Center, and via online meeting on July 24 at 9:00 a.m. The agenda includes discussion of the National Register of Historic Places and a presentation on the 2024 historic cemeteries grant projects. The meeting is open to the public and the agenda includes an opportunity for public comment. Meeting information is on the agenda or you can follow this link to register for online access information.

State law established the seven-member Commission to maintain a listing of all historic cemeteries and gravesites in Oregon; promote public education on the significance of historic cemeteries; and help obtain financial and technical assistance for restoring, improving and maintaining their appearances. For more information about commission activities, contact coordinator Kuri Gill at 503-986-0685 or by e-mail at i.gill@oprd.oregon.gov">kuri.gill@oprd.oregon.gov.
 

Special accommodations for the meeting – including translation services – may be made by calling (503) 986‐0609 or erly.Spivey@oprd.oregon.gov">Kimberly.Spivey@oprd.oregon.gov at least 72 hours prior to the start of the meeting. For call-in details and the agenda or more information about the commission, visit www.oregonheritage.org.

Waste Wise Lane County, a part of Lane County Waste Management, is excited to announce a new initiative to bring free repair services to rural communities through “Fix-It Booths.”

Residents near Cottage Grove, Florence, and Oakridge can now bring their broken household items to scheduled events and work with volunteer fixers to get them repaired—free of charge.

The booths will run from now through early fall.

Unlike larger Fix-It Fairs, which feature multiple repair experts at a single event, the Fix-It Booth model will offer a single fixer at a time, allowing for more frequent repair opportunities. This approach ensures rural communities have ongoing access to repair services, reducing waste and saving residents money.

Event Details

• Where: Cottage Grove, Florence & Oakridge Farmers Markets. See schedules and locations at fixitlanecounty.org/calendar.
• Cost: Free
• What to bring: Small household items in need of repair (e.g., clothing, small appliances, electronics, etc.) Please visit fixitlanecounty.org/calendar for specifics before attending.

Since 2023, Lane County has hosted five Fix-It Fairs, serving hundreds of residents and diverting countless items from landfills. However, rural communities have expressed a need for more frequent repair opportunities. The new Rural Fix-It Booth Project addresses this gap by providing consistent, accessible repair services where they’re needed most.

“We’re thrilled to expand our repair services through this innovative model,” said Jeff Orlandini, Waste Management Division manager. “By setting up at local markets and events, we can help more people fix instead of replace, keeping usable items out of the waste stream and supporting sustainable habits.”

In addition to the Fix-It Booths, Lane County will also host a traditional Fix-It Fair in Springfield later this year on September 21.

For more information, visit FixItLaneCounty.org/calendar or follow Waste Wise Lane County on social media.

About Waste Wise Lane County

Waste Wise Lane County—a part of the Lane County Waste Management Division—empowers residents, schools, and businesses with education, tools, and resources that can be used to reduce waste, conserve resources, and live more sustainably. For more information, visit lanecountyor.gov/wastewise.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 9, 2025

Commissioners Honor Firefighters with a Proclamation Honoring Firefighter Appreciation Week

​(Douglas County, Ore.) Douglas County Commissioners Tim Freeman, Tom Kress, and Chris Boice issued a proclamation today at their Weekly Business Meeting calling upon all citizens of Douglas County to observe July 7-13, 2025, as "Firefighter Appreciation Week" in Douglas County.  The proclamation was presented by Commissioner Boice, on behalf of the Board and acknowledged that, “We recognize that firefighters are dedicated public servants who place themselves in harm’s way to protect the lives, property, and wellbeing of our communities.  These brave men and women respond to emergencies with courage and professionalism, facing dangers such as fire, hazardous materials, medical crises, and natural disasters. Firefighters not only respond to emergencies but also work tirelessly to prevent them through education, training, community outreach, and fire safety programs.  We recognize the physical, mental, and emotional demands of this honorable profession, and express deep gratitude for the commitment and sacrifice of every firefighter, past and present.”  A copy of the live video presentation can be found on the Douglas County Government Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/DouglasCountyeGovernment.

This week the Commissioners celebrated the men and women of Douglas County that have chosen to serve others in the firefighting profession, whether they are career, volunteer, wildland, or structural firefighters or chief officers, company officers, battalion chiefs, engineers, lieutenants, captains, fire marshals, public information officers, those cross-trained as EMTs and paramedics, or fire office personnel. Following the reading of the proclamation, Commissioner Freeman asked to take a few minutes to honor our fallen firefighters.  

“We also dedicate today to the memory of our fallen firefighters who selflessly gave their lives for our communities.  We do this to honor them and make sure that they are never forgotten!  We researched lists of fallen firefighters from local agencies, as well as from state and national archives.  We were able to locate the names and respective agencies for 19 fallen firefighters from Douglas County dating back to 1951.” – CommissionerFreeman

Chief Michael Lane from Sutherlin Fire Department and Chief Tyler Christopherson from Roseburg Fire Department were invited to the podium to present the Fireman’s Prayer, recite the names of our 19 fallen firefighters from Douglas County and present the “Last Alarm” poem followed by a 200-year-old tradition of sounding a bell.  Chief Christopherson read the Fireman’s Prayer, followed by an emotional reading of the 19 fallen firefighter’s names, agencies and year of passing by Chief Lane.  As firefighter tradition notes, it is customary that the ‘Last Alarm’ be sounded for our firefighting brothers and sisters who paid the supreme sacrifice. For having selflessly given their lives for the good of their fellow man, their tasks completed, their duties well done, to signify, they are “returning to quarters.” Following the reading of the “Last Alarm,” Chief Christopherson ceremoniously rang the bell five rings, three times each in honor of our local fallen firefighters. The “Last Alarm” was written by Jim Martinez. He was a long-time member of the International Association of Fire Fighters.  We would like to thank Chief Lane and Chief Christopherson for helping us honor our fallen fire heroes.  Commissioner Freeman then asked for a moment of silence to remember the 19 fallen firefighters.  

Douglas County Fallen Firefighters:

Jerry Bain ​- Douglas Forest Protective Association ​- 1951

Roy W. McFarland ​​- Roseburg Fire Department, Roseburg​​ - 1959

John J. Richards ​- Douglas Forest Protective Association ​- 1961

Richard Underhill ​- Douglas Forest Protective Association ​- 1979

Elwin I. King​​ - Fair Oaks Fire Department, Sutherlin​ - 1984

Mark Giles ​- Douglas Forest Protective Association ​- 1987 

James Moore ​​- Douglas Forest Protective Association ​- 1987

Russell Brine​​ - Elkton Rural Fire District, Elkton​​ - 1987

Julius C. Starr​​ - USDA Forest Service, Roseburg Office​ - 1990

Clark N. Gilkison ​- Fair Oaks Fire Department, Sutherlin​​ - 1991

Rob Johnson​​ - Prineville Hot Shots (South Canyon Fire, Colorado)​ - 1994

Paul E. Gibson​ - ​First Strike Environmental, Roseburg - ODF Contractor - ​2003

David Kelly Hammer - ​​First Strike Environmental, Roseburg - ODF Contractor​ - 2003

Jeffrey D. Hengel​ - First Strike Environmental, Roseburg - ODF Contractor - ​2003

Jesse D. James​​ - First Strike Environmental, Roseburg - ODF Contractor​ -  2003

Richard Burt Moore II​​ - First Strike Environmental, Roseburg – ODF Contractor​ - 2003

Leland ‘David’ Price Jr.​​ - First Strike Environmental, Roseburg – ODF Contractor​ - 2003

Mark Robert Ransdell​​ - First Strike Environmental, Roseburg – ODF Contractor​ - 2003

Ricardo M. Ruiz​ - First Strike Environmental, Roseburg – ODF Contractor - ​2003

Commissioner Tim Freeman presented Firefighter Appreciation Weekproclamation certificates to firefighters and fire personnel from:

In 2017, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation created Light the Night for Fallen Firefighters, to recognize Fallen Firefighters. As a gesture of support and honor we have asked that the exterior lights of the Douglas County Courthouse be turned RED from July 1-13, as a tribute to the 19 fallen Douglas County firefighters, their families, and ALL fallen fire heroes across our great nation. 

This proclamation is a reminder to our citizens to take the time to thank ourfire heroes, past and present, who, by their faithful and loyal devotion to their profession, have rendered immeasurable service to their communities. 

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Media Contact:​Tamara Howell, Emergency Communications & Community Engagement Specialist, Douglas County Public Affairs Office | Office: (541) 957-4896 | Cell: (541) 670-2804 | Email: a.howell@douglascountyor.gov">tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov

Photo Credit: K.Tate/Douglas County

On Wednesday, July 9, at approximately 1:50 p.m., deputies received several 911 calls reporting a brush fire near Gath Road and Barcelona Road, just off Turner Road. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.

The fire quickly spread through a field and reached a nearby building. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) was notified at 1:51 p.m. and responded to assist with road closures as the fire grew. Turner Road at Gath Road and Gath Road at Witzel Road were both shut down. The roads remain closed, and emergency personnel will remain on scene until it is safe to leave.

Level 2 and Level 3 evacuation notices were issued to nearby properties. As of 6:55 p.m. this evening, fire personnel are still on scene mopping up the fire. The Level 3 evacuation remains in effect from Turner Road to Rising Iris Lane and from Turner Road to Barcelona Drive. The Level 2 evacuation notice has been lifted.

One firefighter was injured during the response; their condition is unknown at this time.

We would like to thank Emery & Sons Construction for their assistance in managing the brush and fire line. We also extend our gratitude to the Salem Fire Department, Salem Police Department, Oregon State Police, Marion County Fire District, Turner Fire District, and other supporting agencies for their swift and coordinated response. Special thanks as well to WVCC and METCOM for their support.

Springfield, OR - At approximately 3:35 pm, Eugene Springfield Fire responded to a vehicle on it's side and on fire.  The occupant was able to extricate from the vehicle but was transported via medic to the hospital with serious injuries.  Thanks to our companions at ODOT, the vehicle was moved off the roadway swiftly to allow traffic to flow again.  Springfield Police assumed command of the situation at that point and ESF is no longer on scene. Please be cautious in the area until the vehicle is removed.  

Springfield, OR - At approximately 3:35 pm, Eugene Springfield Fire responded to a vehicle on it's side and on fire.  The occupant was able to extricate from the vehicle but was transported via medic to the hospital with serious injuries.  Thanks to our companions at ODOT, the vehicle was moved off the roadway swiftly to allow traffic to flow again.  Springfield Police assumed command of the situation at that point and ESF is no longer on scene. Please be cautious in the area until the vehicle is removed.  

Today, a Marion County Jury convicted Maury Wayne Pearson, 6/28/1956, of one count of Sodomy in the First Degree after a three-day jury trial.  Marion County Circuit Court Judge Audrey Broyles presided over the case, and the case was prosecuted by Marion County Deputy District Attorneys Meghan Kamps and Matthew Estrada. 

The next date is a status conference on 7/14/2025 at 8:30 for parties to pick a sentencing date.

Due to the victim being under the age of 12 and the offender over the age of 18 at the time of the offense, Sodomy in the First Degree carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 25 years in prison.

The case was investigated by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.  Due to the pending sentencing date no further information will be released at this time.

SALEM, Ore. - This legislative session, the Oregon legislature and Gov. Tina Kotek continue to show their support for the Oregon Military Department through ongoing efforts to provide benefits to help strengthen the Oregon Army National Guard.

Two specific initiatives for recruiting and retention support went into effect on July 1, 2025. The first is a $5,000 bonus for a three-year extension for Guard members who have completed their initial enlistment and have not completed 17 years of service. The second is the Enlistment Enhancement Program. This is an agency-funded program where current Guard members and retirees can receive $2,000 payments for any recruitment leads that result in an enlistment into the Oregon Army National Guard. 

In addition to these benefits, the Oregon National Guard offers State Tuition Assistance, which provides tuition assistance for serving Guard members enrolled in an eligible Oregon postsecondary institution and now offers instate tuition rates to Oregon Guard members who live out of state.

“The Oregon National Guard is on track to increase strength by 2% by the end of the fiscal year, but were still more than 1,200 members short of reaching full strength,” said Lt. Col. Stephen Bomar, Director of Public Affairs for the Oregon Military Department.

The Oregon National Guard is authorized to have approximately 8,100 service members, consisting of 2,300 Air and 5,800 Army National Guard members.

“These initiatives assist with the Adjutant General’s goal to make the Oregon National Guard the Service of Choice for Oregonians,” Bomar said.

 The approved legislative actions for the Oregon Military Department this session were met with nearly unanimous bipartisan support.  Some of those highlights include:

1. SB 807 – One-time General Fund of $2.5 million towards Retention Bonus Program:
   1. Allows the Adjutant General to pay a bonus to a member of the Oregon National Guard who re-enlists or extends their service
       
2. SB 798 – In-state tuition rates apply to Oregon National Guard service members who live out of the state of Oregon.
    
3. SB 808 – Provides hiring and promotion preference in public employment for current and former Oregon National Guard members
    
   1. Adds 5 points to current and former state service members’ scores during interviews and 10 points for disabled veterans
       
   2. Provides equity for Oregon National Guard members who did not meet the previous statutory definitions to receive the preference
       
4. SB 5505 & SB 5506 – Authorization for three Capital Construction Projects for the Oregon National Guard
   1. Southern Oregon Field Maintenance Shop – $6.6 million
       
   2. Klamath Falls Readiness Center - $2.0 million
       
   3. Albany Armory Service Life Extension Project - $7 million
       
5. SB 5533 – Solution to a long-term funding issue for OMD IT Division and the Portland Air National Guard (PANG) base
    

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Released File Images of Oregon National Guard Soldiers and Airmen:

220520-Z-ZJ128-1003: Spc. Whitney Badders on rappel during the 821 Troop Command Battalion, Oregon National Guard team-building event, rappelling at the local Fire Department in Salem, Ore., on May 20, 2022. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

200816-Z-NJ272-0003: Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers with 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment, 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team paddle an inflatable boat during training on August 16, 2020, at Cullaby Lake, near Warrenton, Oregon. Members of the unit completed tasks which included a swim test, paddling and maneuvering, and broaching recovery drills during their two-week annual training. (National Guard photo by Maj. Leslie Reed, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

231127-Z-NV612-2003: Oregon Air National Guard Tech. Sgt. Christopher Hernandez, 173rd Fighter Wing aircrew flight equipment, fits a mask to Maj. Gen. Clark Quinn, 19th Air Force commander, in preparation for Quinn's flight in an F-15D at Kingsley Field in Klamath Falls, Oregon, Oct. 27, 2023. Quinn spent two days at Kingsley Field meeting with Airmen and observing their F-15C training mission first-hand. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Jennifer Shirar)

200506-Z-CH590-0128: Oregon Army National Guard Soldier assigned to BRAVO 1-168 Aviation gives the ‘thumbs up’ as she helps prepare a CH-47 Chinook helicopter at the Pendleton Army Aviation Support Facility, May 6, 2020. Approximately 60 members of the unit are traveling to Fort Hood, Texas, as they prepare to deploy to Afghanistan. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

200914-Z-LM216-0424: Oregon Army National Guard Citizen-Soldiers support the Oregon Department of Forestry with wild land firefighting efforts at the Two Four Two fire, Chiloquin, Ore., Sept. 14. Approximately 1000 Oregon Guard members are supporting overall firefighting efforts with both aviation and ground crews, in addition to supporting county liaison teams and Oregon State Police with both traffic control points and fatality search and rescue operations. (Army National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st Class Zachary Holden, 115th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment)

230604-Z-GP610-0208: Oregon Air National Guard Tech Sgt. Ron Mercer, Staff Sgt. Sam Ziegler, and Senior Airman Bailey Buck, all 142nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron aircraft armament Airmen, participate in a weapons loading competition, June 4, 2023, Portland Air National Guard Base, Ore. (Air National Guard Photo by Staff Sgt. Sean Campbell)

240723-Z-UZ129-5529: U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Jonathan Osborne from the Task Force Guardian rotation led by 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team with the Oregon National Guard assaults the objective in a force-on-force exercise during Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC) rotation 24-09, Fort Johnson, La., July 23, 2024. The JRTC's goal is to create realistic environments that help prepare units for complex operations. (Oregon National Guard photo by Sgt. Emily Simonson, 115th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment)

240725-Z-NV612-1069: Oregon Air National Guard Tech. Sgt. Ashley Vela, 173rd Fighter Wing weapons oad crew chief, monitors as Staff Sgts. Quinten Green and Samantha Kloss, 173rd Fighter Wing weapons, load live 20mm bullets into an F-15C Eagle at Kingsley Field in Klamath Falls, Oregon, July 25, 2024. Additional precautions must be taken when loading live ammunition into the aircraft, making this training essential to ensuring that weapons Airmen are prepared and mission-ready. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Jennifer Shirar)

180803-Z-ZJ128-0002: Oregon Army National Guard 2nd Squad, Squad Leader Sgt. McFerrin from 1st Platoon, B Company, 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry directs an assault on an enemy position, during the platoon’s Movement to Contact lane, part of the training of the Oregon Army National Guard’s, 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team’s eXportable Combat Training Capability (XCTC), Aug. 3, 2018 in Camp Roberts, California. (U.S. Army Photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, 41st IBCT Public Affairs)

240225-Z-SP755-1002: Oregon Air National Guard Senior Airman Perry Johnston, an avionics technician with the 142nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, closes a hatch on an F-15C aircraft at Portland Air National Guard Base, Ore., on February 25, 2024. As a traditional guardsman, Johnston works as an ensemble skater for "Disney On Ice" when he's not maintaining electrical systems inside the F-15Cs and EXs. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. Steph Sawyer)

250315-Z-CH590-4173: Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers and Airmen take part in the Mogadishu Challenge event at the urban training village at Camp Rilea, near Warrenton, Oregon, on March 15, 2025, during the Army Best Warrior Competition from March 13-15, 2025. The full range of events assessed the warriors' physical fitness, land navigation skills, marksmanship, and other battlefield scenarios. These included a physical fitness test, rifle qualification, a 3-gun competition, an obstacle course, and a ruck march. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250314-Z-CH590-3076: Oregon Army National Guard Spc. Justin Slothower, assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 116th Cavalry Regiment, takes on the Obstacle Course during the Army Best Warrior Competition on March 14, 2025. Slothower won the Soldier tier competition, completing a full range of events that assessed the warriors' physical fitness, land navigation skills, marksmanship, and other battlefield scenarios. These included a physical fitness test, rifle qualification, a 3-gun competition, an obstacle course, and a ruck march from March 13-15, 2025. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

230221-Z-NJ272-0010: Oregon Army National Guard Capt. Kyle Roe, a troop commander with 1st Squadron, 82nd Cavalry Regiment, skis the first of four legs of the men's relay competition at the Chief of the National Guard Bureau's Biathlon Nationals at the Camp Ethan Allen Training Site in Jericho, Vermont, Feb. 21, 2023. Soldiers from more than 26 states and territories participated in the annual competition, which began in 1975. (National Guard photo by Maj. Leslie Reed, Oregon Military Department)

210517-Z-SP755-1027: Oregon Air National Guard Senior Airman Paul Julum, 142nd Civil Engineer Squadron, prepares the foundation for the construction of cabins to be utilized by the Girl Scouts at Camp Paumalu in Haleiwa, Hawaii, as part of an Innovation Readiness Training (IRT) mission, May 17, 2021. IRT Civil Engineer squadrons will be constructing new cabins, demolishing old structures, and beautifying Camp Paumalu from May through August 2021. Innovative Readiness Training builds mutually beneficial civil-military partnerships between US communities and the Department of Defense, providing high-quality, mission-essential training for Active, Guard, and Reserve support personnel and units. According to the recent easing of mask restrictions by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, IRT personnel are allowed to be unmasked when working outdoors. (Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Steph Sawyer)

190515-Z-LM216-0940: Oregon Army National Guard Sgt. Blaze Bault, a crew chief with G Co. 1-189 AVN, Oregon Army National Guard, pauses during training at Exercise Maple. Maple Resolve 19-01 is located in Wainwright, AB, Canada. Maple Resolve is an annual brigade-level validation exercise for the Canadian Army's High Readiness Brigade and is designed to foster partnership among allied forces. (National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Zachary Holden, 115th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment)

July 9, 2025

Media contact: Timothy Heider, 971-599-0459, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory issued for Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory today for Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge due to the microcystin above recreational use values for human exposure. The lake is in Klamath County.

People should avoid swimming and high-speed water activities, such as water skiing or power boating, in areas of the wetland where blooms are present, as the major route of exposure is ingestion of water. Toxins are not absorbed through the skin. However, those with skin sensitivities may get a puffy red rash.

Due to the high level of microcystin and uncertainty about accumulation of toxins in fish, consuming fish caught at Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge is not recommended at this time.

OHA encourages people to visit Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge and enjoy activities such as 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.

Children and pets

Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure because of their size and level of activity. 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 crust along the shore. This is regardless of a recreational use health advisory in place.

Dogs can become ill and die from water intoxication after drinking excessive amounts of water while swimming or fetching objects for long periods of time. Intoxication is a potentially fatal disturbance in brain function resulting from an imbalance of electrolytes in the body. Water intoxication and heat stroke can cause similar symptoms as exposure to cyanotoxins.

Symptoms

Exposure to cyanotoxins can be serious and cause a range of symptoms. Symptoms may be similar to food poisoning such as stomach cramping, 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 experience weakness, difficulty walking, seizures, lethargy, loss of appetite and more. If a dog exhibits symptoms, veterinary treatment should be sought as quickly as possible.

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 before cooking or freezing. Toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues. 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.

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PORTLAND, Ore. —As Oregon continues to experience persistent hot and dry conditions typical of midsummer, both community prevention efforts and swift responses from wildland firefighters are playing a crucial role in keeping large fires at bay. This season, fewer large wildfires have been reported compared to previous years, a positive trend that fire officials attribute to increased public awareness and the dedication of Initial Attack resources.

This summer, the Bureau of Land Management, along with other agency’s wildfire prevention strategies, are delivering real results. Community vigilance has been instrumental in preventing human-caused wildfires. People recreating, traveling, and working outdoors have stepped up by adhering to fire safety practices, following burn bans, and observing campfire restrictions and equipment guidelines. This collective responsibility is making a real difference in minimizing risk across the state.

Equally significant has been the outstanding performance of Initial Attack resources and technology. These critical first responders—including district firefighters, smokejumpers, and aviation crews—have remained on high alert and have responded rapidly to emerging fire starts. Their ability to contain fires during the first few hours of ignition is making all the difference.  These firefighters are using fire detection cameras to alert them to new fires across Oregon and Washington, giving them every advantage they can to detect, respond and suppress the wildfires at the smallest size possible.

“Initial Attack firefighters have been putting out a ton of fires before they get big. A lightning storm last week was causing 60–70 fires a day, and Initial Attack caught them all,” said Richard Parrish, Assistant Fire Management Officer. However, fire season is far from over and the lightning that occurred over the past couple of days did result some large fires and the BLM continues to support our partners with these fires. With many weeks of hot, dry weather still ahead, fire officials urge the public not to let their guard down. Continued attentiveness and adherence to fire safety guidelines remain essential.

Everyone can help reduce fire risk by taking simple but effective precautions:

• Stay updated on and comply with local fire restrictions.
• Never leave campfires unattended and extinguish them completely.
• Avoid driving or parking on dry vegetation, which can ignite fires.
• Ensure that trailer chains are secured and do not drag on the roadway.
• Operate outdoor equipment during the cooler parts of the day to reduce spark risk.

-BLM-

The BLM manages roughly 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

PUBLIC SAFETY MEMORIAL FUND BOARD

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Public Safety Memorial Fund Board will hold a regular meeting on July 24, 2025, 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. PSMFB Chair and Vice-Chair Nominations

   Presented by Marie Atwood

3. Approve April 24, 2025, Meeting Minutes

4. Budget Update

   Presented by Marie Atwood

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

    Presented by Marie Atwood

6. Next meeting – October 23, 2025, 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. 

Wednesday, July 9, 2025 - Springfield, OR - ESF is on-scene of a fatal mobile home fire in the area of 53rd Street and Main St. Units arrived 4:20 seconds after dispatch to find a working mobile home fire.  It was quickly assessed and a second alarm was requested.  One of the occupants did not survive the fire, the other was transported to the hospital in critical condition. No injuries to firefighters reported. Staff from the Fire Marshal's Office are on scene, cause is still under investigation.

MALHEUR COUNTY, Ore. 9 July 2025 – On Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at approximately 12:31 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash in Malheur County near Harper.

The preliminary investigation indicated that a blue Kenworth commercial motor vehicle, operated by Alberto Ruiz Gomez (33) of Hermiston, was traveling eastbound on Highway 20 near milepost 220 when it left the roadway onto the eastbound shoulder for an unknown reason. The operator overcorrected, causing the semi to flip over.
 

The operator (Gomez) was declared deceased at the scene.
 

The highway was impacted for approximately 1.5 hours during the on-scene investigation.
 

OSP was assisted by the Malheur County Sheriff’s Office 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.

BOARD ON PUBLIC SAFETY STANDARDS AND TRAINING

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 24, 2025, in the Governor Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov.

To view the Board'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. Meeting Minutes

Approve the April 24, 2025, Meeting Minutes

3. Fire Policy Committee

a. Fire Policy Committee Update – Chris Heppel, Chair

4. Criminal Justice Policy Committees

a. Police Policy Committee Update – Scotty Nowning, Chair

b. Telecommunications Policy Committee Update – Michael Fletcher, Chair

c. Corrections Policy Committee Update – Jennifer Cameron, Chair

d. Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote)

A. Chris Barnhart, DPSST No. 42754; DOC/Eastern Oregon Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on May 13, 2025.

B. Phillip Barrier, DPSST No. 60490; Lane County Sheriff's Office – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on May 13, 2025.

C. Randy Clark, DPSST No. 23388; Central Point Police Department – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on May 22, 2025.

D. James Damon, DPSST No. 44535; DOC/South Fork Forest Camp – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on May 13, 2025.

E. Almedina Javor, DPSST No. 61328; Columbia River Inter-Tribal Police Department – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on May 22, 2025.

F. Jeffrey Kienlen, DPSST No. 30358; The Dalles Police Department – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on May 22, 2025.

G. Alan Lynn, DPSST No. 31664; Albany Police Department – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on May 22, 2025.

H. Kent van der Kamp, DPSST No. 44640; Deschutes County Sheriff's Office – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on May 22, 2025.

I. Committee Appointments

Telecommunications Policy Committee

• • Dave Piercy – Oregon State Police, Appointment to the TPC, 1st term effective July 24, 2025.
  • Rosa Antoine – Association of Public Safety Communications Officers, 2nd term effective October 26, 2025.
  • Gary Bell – Oregon Association of Chiefs of Police, 2nd term effective October 28, 2025.

5. Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee

a. Private Security Investigator Policy Committee Update – Dan Lenzen, Chair

b. Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote).

A. Committee Appointments

Private Security/Investigators Policy Committee

• • Edward Flaa – Alarm Monitor Representative, Appointment to the PSIPC, 1st term effective July 27, 2025.
  • Scott Creager – Private Business or Governmental Entity Representative, Re-appointment to the PSIPC, 2nd term effective October 26, 2025.

B. Workgroups and Rulemaking Advisory Committees

DPSST recommends the Board approve three separate Workgroups to review and develop recommendations related to the standards and administrative rules for the following private security provider and entity topics:

• • HB 2183 – to review and recommend rules establishing a procedure for recognition of prior law enforcement experience toward completion of the training required for private security professional certification
  • Armed Training – to review and recommend armed training curriculum revisions and supporting rule changes
  • Private Security Entity Licensing – to review the rules adopted in 2024 for the private security entity license (post-implementation review of the new program)

6. Legislative Update – Jennifer Howald

7. Agency Updates – Agency Director, Phil Castle

9. Next Meeting Date: October 23, 2025, at 9:00 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 Board 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.

July 9, 2025

Media contacts: Timothy Heider,971-599-0459, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

OHA lifts Nye Beach health advisory

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) today lifted a public health advisory for contact with ocean water at Nye Beach, in Lincoln County.

The health authority issued the advisory July 2, after water samples showed higher-than-normal levels of fecal bacteria in ocean waters.

Results from follow-up tests taken by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) showed lower bacteria levels. Contact with the ocean water no longer poses a higher-than-normal risk.

Officials recommend staying out of large pools on the beach that are frequented by birds, and runoff from those pools, because the water may contain increased bacteria from fecal matter.

Since 2003, state officials have used a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency grant to monitor popular Oregon beaches and make timely reports to the public about elevated levels of fecal bacteria.

Oregon state agencies participating in this program are OHA, DEQ and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

For more information, visit the Oregon Beach Monitoring Program website at http://www.healthoregon.org/beach or call 971-673-0440, or call OHA toll-free information line at 877-290-6767.

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Commercial health insurance payments increasing, vary widely 

Salem, OR – The Oregon Secretary of State (SOS) has released an audit of the Oregon Department of Administrative Services (DAS) and its State Procurement Services (SPS). DAS SPS is the central procurement authority for most executive branch agencies and provides services across state and local government.

The audit identified the need for DAS to dedicate resources to a comprehensive compliance program and to provide enhanced customer service to support state agencies with their procurement, contracting and training needs. While the state’s eprocurement platform, OregonBuys, is meeting many of its goals, the audit also identified the need for improvements to OregonBuys’ functionality to improve the ability to analyze state spending.

"State contracting has been difficult to navigate for too long. Both businesses and government agree: it's time for a change. Governor Kotek has tasked me with overhauling this overly complex system. We must make contracting accessible and responsive for all Oregonians, ensuring it works for both government and businesses," said DAS Director Betsy Imholt.

Oregon state agencies rely heavily on procurement and contracting to acquire essential goods and services. These activities come with significant risks and require effective processes and oversight to ensure efficiency, security and equity. DAS SPS oversees public procurement and contracting for the state and holds primary authority over most state purchasing and contracting processes.

DAS agrees with all eight audit recommendations and is committed to making improvements to enhance procurement and contracting processes. 

SALEM, Ore. – Adult emerald ash borers (EAB) start emerging in Oregon in early June. However, the majority emerge this month (July). The size of a penny, adults are hard to spot and usually are only found in traps. If you think you’ve seen one, the Oregon Department of Forestry and Oregon Department of Agriculture ask that you first make sure it’s not a common lookalike bug.

“You can find a good description and photos comparing EAB to other common insects in Oregon that are also green in color at OregonEAB.com,” said ODF EAB Specialist Kat Bethea. “If you can capture the insect in a jar or other container that’s ideal, but at least try and take a clear, close-up photo. This helps us identify the insect in question much more easily.”

Bethea said people suspecting they’ve found EAB should report it over the phone to 1-866-INVADER or online at https://oregoninvasiveshotline.org/reports/create. Attaching a clear photo is important. Bethea said people who know they have an ash tree and notice a decline should report it the same way.

“Any ash tree can be infested, including native Oregon ash as well as non-native street, park and yard trees. Signs of infestation include thinning and yellowing leaves, bark splitting, D-shaped holes in the tree bark, and basal shoots,” said Bethea.

About EAB

A small, metallic-green beetle native to eastern Asia, EAB was first found in the U.S. in Michigan in 2002. It has since killed tens of millions of ash trees across the eastern United States, with death rates of 99 percent or higher.

ODF EAB Specialist Matt Mills said EAB’s larvae burrow into the bark of ash trees, causing canopy dieback and, ultimately, tree death.

“The half-inch beetle is often challenging to detect, especially in newly infested trees. That’s why ODF, in collaboration with the USDA Animal Plant Health Inspection Service, made sticky purple traps available to select landowners, primarily in the Willamette Valley. Those traps contain a lure and are checked every couple of weeks during the summer when adult EAB are flying.”

Mills said EAB is currently known to be in Washington County in the Forest Grove and Cornelius areas and a short distance into northern Yamhill County. It has also been found along Butte Creek between Marion and Clackamas counties, as well as in Woodburn, Mt. Angel and the Yoder area.

“You can find whether you’re in an EAB-infested area or close to one by checking an online map we’ve created. It shows the four counties where firewood from hardwood trees cannot be removed. That quarantine also covers any part of ash, olive or white fringetree (Chionanthus virginicus),” said Mills.

For people who want to protect their ash trees before they become infested, there is an effective insecticide that can be injected at the base of the tree’s trunk, said Mills.

“It gets taken up into the tree canopy and is quite effective at protecting the tree from both adults and larvae.”

Mills said treatments must be done every two or three years by a licensed pesticide applicator.

“That’s why we recommend only treating high-value trees in good condition,” he said.” Ash trees planted in the wrong place to reach their mature size, such as under powerlines, should be removed as time and funds permit and replaced with species that aren’t susceptible to EAB.” 

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SALEM, Ore. – The State Land Board voted unanimously today to appoint Kaitlin Lovell as Director of the Oregon Department of State Lands (DSL). Lovell will begin her four-year term in early August 2025.

Lovell brings more than two decades of experience in environmental policy, restoration, and natural resource law. Since 2007, she has led habitat protection and restoration initiatives for the Portland Bureau of Environmental Services, where her work has focused on environmental regulation, permitting, land use, and innovative financing strategies for large-scale environmental projects. She also played a key role in developing a publicly owned mitigation bank in Portland.

Earlier in her career, Lovell served as salmon policy coordinator and counsel for Trout Unlimited. She helped shape science-based state and federal policies and contributed to Oregon’s first recovery plans for salmon and steelhead populations in the Oregon Coast, Lower Columbia, and Willamette regions. She also worked as assistant university counsel at Cornell University.

Lovell holds a J.D. from Cornell Law School with a concentration in public law and a B.S. in environmental science from Bucknell University. She has served on several DSL advisory bodies, including the Elliott State Research Forest Board of Directors and a committee reviewing Oregon’s wetland and waterway permitting rules.

Lovell will begin her tenure by visiting communities across Oregon to hear directly from the people and partners DSL serves. As director, she plans to deepen the agency’s understanding of local needs and opportunities while strengthening relationships with Tribal Nations, local governments, and community partners and groups.

“The work of the Department of State Lands matters to every corner of Oregon,” Lovell said. “I'm committed to listening, learning, and building trust across the state so we can steward Oregon’s lands and waters together.”

“Kaitlin is a proven leader who understands how much healthy lands and waters contribute to a thriving Oregon,” Governor Tina Kotek said, chair of the State Land Board. “Her long commitment to public service makes her well prepared to lead DSL at a time when stewardship and long-term sustainability must guide our work. I know she will work hard to ensure DSL’s programs and services reflect the needs and values of all Oregonians.”

By Oregon law, the State Land Board appoints the DSL director to a four-year term. The director leads the agency in managing lands to benefit schools, protects waterways and wetlands, and oversees South Slough Reserve and the Elliott State Research Forest.

Vicki Walker, who served as DSL director from 2018 until her retirement on June 30, announced her intent to step down in December 2024.

Until Lovell begins her role in August, Deputy Director Bill Ryan will serve as interim director.

About the State Land Board and the Department of State Lands: The State Land Board consists of Governor Tina Kotek, Secretary of State Tobias Read, and State Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner. Established by the Oregon Constitution in 1859, the Land Board oversees the state’s Common School Fund. The Department of State Lands is the Land Board’s administrative agency, managing the lands and resources that help fund Oregon’s public schools and protecting the state’s waterways and wetlands for the many benefits they provide.

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Salem, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has deployed Incident Management Team 1 (IMT 1) to the Klamath-Lake District to manage the Elk Fire in the Bly Mountain area. This is the second ODF IMT deployment in the last 24 hours.

After multiple days of lightning strikes in the area, the firefighters in the Klamath-Lake District have been working nonstop. In support of the district, ODF IMT 1 will take over the Elk Fire so that local resources may focus on extinguishing new ignitions and smaller fires in the district.

“Our firefighters have been all hands on deck after 10 straight days of lightning, which has stretched our local resources thin,” ODF Klamath-Lake District Forester Teresa Williams said. “With the help of ODF IMT 1, we’ll be able to regroup, reassign resources and continue protecting our communities from wildfire.”

The fire is currently estimated to be over 1,000 acres. ODF IMT 1 will in brief at 5 p.m. tonight and take command of the fire at 6 a.m. tomorrow morning. The Oregon State Fire Marshal mobilized a local task force yesterday to protect nearby structures and those resources demobilized that evening. For up to date evacuation information, follow the Klamath County Sheriff's Office or visit the following official site: https://protect.genasys.com/search.

“The professionalism, expertise and adaptability of our IMTs mean that we can answer the call within 24 hours to help our fellow Oregonians and their communities through any emergency,” said ODF’s Protection Division Chief Michael Curran.

As firefighters continue to work to suppress natural-caused fires, reduce the strain on firefighters by preventing new human-caused fires. Follow local regulations currently in place: https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/restrictions.aspx.

Lane County Public Health recommends safety precautions around substance use at festivals, concerts, and events. There is a continued prevalence of fentanyl in Lane County’s illicit drug supplies. The effects of fentanyl, a powerful illicit opioid, are seen in increased calls to 911, emergency room visits, and deaths.

In summer months, Lane County residents attend increased outdoor events that may include alcohol and illicit substance use. Because fentanyl is undetectable, public health officials recommend being educated and prepared to save lives.

An overdose from fentanyl can be reversed with the use of naloxone, sometimes known as Narcan, an overdose reversal medication that is safe, legal, and available over the counter for anyone to use in an emergency.

The signs of a fentanyl overdose include being unresponsive, having slowed or no breathing, having gray skin, or making gurgling or snoring sounds. If someone has these symptoms, call 911 immediately and administer naloxone.

Some substances can be tested for fentanyl with fentanyl testing strips. And many festivals and events may offer drug testing services to reduce risk but it’s important to know that no test can be 100% accurate. 

You can learn more through Fentanyl Aware Lane County by visiting www.fentanylaware.com

SALEM, Oregon—The Local Government Grant Program Advisory Committee will hold public meetings to review grant applications 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. July 29, 30 and 31.  

The meetings will be held at the Best Western Plus, Mill Creek Inn, 3125 Ryan Dr. SE, Salem, OR 97301.  The meetings can also be viewed via Zoom.

Applicants to the Local Government Grant Program (LGGP) will present their proposed projects for acquiring, planning, developing and rehabilitating outdoor recreation facilities. The committee will evaluate and score all applications and create a priority ranking list of projects to be funded. The list will be forwarded to the Oregon State

Parks and Recreation Commission for final review and approval.

A schedule listing applicants and their specific presentation times is posted on the Local Government Grant Program web page at https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/GRA/pages/GRA-lggp.aspx#2 . A link to view the Zoom meeting will also be posted at the site.

The LGGP Advisory Committee consists of ten members who represent cities, counties, park and recreation districts, port districts, people with disabilities and the general public. They also represent various geographic areas of the state. 

The LGGP was established in 1999 to direct a portion of state lottery revenue to award grants to eligible applicants for outdoor park and recreation projects. The program is administered by Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD). 

For more information about the LGGP, visit oprdgrants.org.

ROSEBURG, OR – A H.O.P.E. Drug Court participant has chosen to help the Douglas County Juvenile Department Programs for the Detention Center, Rising Light and River Rock to seek recreational equipment, board and card games, walking/hiking shoes, and swimwear/goggles for youth utilizing the programs.

Robert Bryant, HOPE Drug Court participant, stated, “Legacy is not the sum of our achievements.  Legacy is what our children will say about us when we are gone.  My project is called Legacy of Hope, and the goal is to help children in the Juvenile Department programs.  The need for a child to make and have connection within their community, my community, is without parallel.  In my own childhood that lack of connection led me to seek it in other places, in drugs, but by giving kids the chance to make connections to the community before seeking it as I did, brings me hope.  I want the need for connection to be fulfilled so they feel complete, worthy, and see value in themselves.  Together, we can give the opportunity for these things, and our actions show them we see their value, worth, potential, and the situation they are in as a product of poor choices, not bad kids. Action is an idea in motion, and children will not remember what we thought or what we said as much as what we showed them.  Please join me and help show these kids what it means to do the right thing when nobody may even see.”

The Juvenile Department plays a vital role in promoting public safety while ensuring that youth who commit law violations are held accountable for their actions. The department’s primary mission is to provide opportunities for restoration—not just for the youth, but also for their victims and the broader community.

Key functions of the department include:

• Accountability: Holding youth accountable for their delinquent behavior through a fair and constructive process.
• Restorative Justice: Offering opportunities for youth to make amends through restorative practices that focus on healing and repair.
• Reformation Services: Providing support and services to help youth become productive and responsible citizens, guiding them on a path toward personal growth and a positive future.
• Child Abuse and Neglect Cases: Assisting the District Attorney’s Office in the processing of child abuse and neglect cases through the court system, ensuring justice and protection for vulnerable children.
• Behavior Rehabilitative Services: Two residential programs for youth in foster care, ages 13-17, provide access to individualized treatment planning, mental health therapy, substance use counseling, education services, and opportunities for recreation while working towards stabilization with the goal of transitioning back to the care of a family member, community resource home, or independent living program.

Through these efforts, the Juvenile Department works tirelessly to help youth rebuild their lives, while fostering a safer and stronger community for everyone. “Giving back to the community in this way, is a complete WIN-WIN. Mr. Bryant is making huge strides in a life changing program that truly leaves a legacy. The youth he will impact by supplying prosocial sports and recreation equipment will last for years to come.  By providing these items for our youth we can teach them, show them, play beside them and from that they will learn patience, sportsmanship, teamwork, skills, self-worth, and more. This is restorative Justice at its best.” says Juvenile Department Director Wendy Lang.

The Juvenile Detention and Residential Facility provides secure housing and residential programming for youth offenders. The Detention Unit has a capacity of 32 beds and includes a 30-day extended detention program. This unit serves as a critical resource for ensuring public safety and holding youth accountable for their actions. Youth are admitted to the Detention Unit through referrals from law enforcement agencies or by court order. The Residential Programs offers a less secure environment and can accommodate up to 16 youth from the foster care system.   Jessica Epp, Juvenile Services Manager added, “The youth in our Residential programs come to us from all over the state of Oregon to receive intensive behavior rehabilitative services. Providing them with opportunities for recreation and activities is essential to their treatment and well-being. We are so grateful for Mr. Bryant choosing our department as the recipient of donations that will support our youth and allow them the chance to continue to engage in activities that they enjoy or learn about new sports and games that they have not been able to try yet.”

HOPE Drug Court Participant Launches Sports & Recreation Drive for Local Youth

Mr. Bryant, a Douglas County H.O.P.E. Drug Court participant, is leading a sports and recreation equipment drive to support youth in the local Douglas County Juvenile Department programs.  His mission is rooted in the belief that staying physically and mentally active helps young people reduce stress, build positive habits, strengthen peer relationships, and learn skills that promote better choices and reduce recidivism.

Items being collected include:

• Footballs, soccer balls, basketballs, volleyballs
• Badminton sets, disc golf discs, tennis racquets and balls
• Board games, UNO, playing cards, puzzles, chess, checkers
• Playground balls, softball gloves and balls
• Hiking shoes, yoga mats, swimming goggles
• Swimwear (boys and girls, pre-teen to teen sizes)
• And other sports and recreational supplies

Donation boxes are available at the following Community Partner locations:

• Douglas County Juvenile Department – 1st Floor, Courthouse, 1036 SE Douglas Ave. Room CH 105A, Roseburg
• Big O Tires – 2545 NW Stewart Parkway, Roseburg
• Chevron – 345 W Harvard Ave., Roseburg

Mr. Bryant is offering another way to support his Sports & Recreation Drive by hosting a community car wash during the Graffiti Cruise weekend.

Abby’s Legendary Pizza – 1661 NE Stephens Street
Saturday, July 12, 2025
9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Mr. Bryant and volunteers will be washing vehicles for donations, with all proceeds going toward purchasing recreational and sports equipment for youth in the Juvenile Department programs. The event will also serve as a drop-off location for donated items during the carwash.  Your donation helps promote healthy activity, teamwork, and resilience in youth. Thank you for supporting this meaningful community effort!

The Douglas County H.O.P.E. Drug Court program is preparing to celebrate its 110th graduation on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at 5:15 p.m. The ceremony will be held at the Douglas County Fairgrounds in the Cascade Hall building.

Presided over by the Honorable Judge Robert B. Johnson, H.O.P.E. Drug Court operates under the Douglas County Circuit Court. The program is designed to reduce recidivism, address substance use disorders, and encourage participants to reflect on their lives beyond their criminal actions. The court emphasizes personal transformation, responsibility, and a focus on future potential.

A hallmark of the program is the Graduate Community Project, completed during the final phase. These projects allow participants to demonstrate their personal growth, social development, and the internal motivation that drives them toward meaningful, lasting change.

Graduate flyers and additional information can be found on the Douglas County website through the Local Public Safety Coordinating Council (LPSCC) at: https://douglascountyor.gov/851/HOPE-Drug-Court.

Salem, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has deployed Incident Management Team 3 (IMT 3) to the ODF Southwest Oregon District to assist district personnel following last night’s lightning.

Over the last 24 hours the ODF Southwest Oregon District has confirmed over 72 known fires across Jackson and Josephine counties and been actively engaged across the board, straining all resources in the district.  ODF IMT 3 will support the district by relieving the local resources and allowing them to focus on suppressing smaller fires and initial attack on new fires.

“Our firefighters have been working around the clock to keep these fires as small as we can, but resources are becoming limited, especially with other incidents across Oregon and the country competing for the same emergency response professionals,” ODF Southwest Oregon District Forester Dan Quinones said. “Bringing in ODF IMT 3 will allow us to regain our strength locally, handing some of these fires off to firefighters who hold the same drive to take them off the map as quickly as possible. Protecting our communities and putting out fires remain our top priorities.”

ODF resources continue to work with federal partners at the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest and Bureau of Land Management (BLM), as well as local and county structural fire departments. This teamwork is a direct reflection of the complete and coordinated fire response system in southern Oregon.

The team will in brief at 12 p.m., July 9, and take command of the complex at 6 p.m.

High fire danger is currently in effect on ODF-protected land in Jackson and Josephine counties. As firefighters work to extinguish these natural fire starts, help prevent new human-caused fires from sparking by following all regulations currently in place: https://swofire.com/public-fire-restrictions/. Click or tap if you trust this link.">https://swofire.com/public-fire-restrictions/.

For current fire information, please follow ODF Southwest Oregon’s Facebook page.

ROSEBURG, OR – A participant in the H.O.P.E. Drug Court program has chosen to support Saving Grace Humane Society as part of his Graduate Community Project called ‘No Companion Left Behind’. The efforts are focused on collecting much-needed dog and cat food, as well as monetary donations to benefit the shelter and the animals in its care.  This meaningful project not only supports a vital community organization but also reflects the participant’s personal growth and commitment to giving back.

Cyn Demers, Saving Grace Development and Communications Manager, said, “We’re so excited for this fundraiser and appreciate Erik for choosing Saving Grace.  Support like this means the world to us, especially right now, as we’re in the midst of kitten season and hearing from more people every day who need help.  Community-led fundraising projects like Erik’s make a real impact for the animals in our care.  Donations of pet food and other supplies are always needed and directly support our lifesaving work.”  A special Saving Grace fundraiser page has been created for funds to go directly to their program by using this web link: donation page.

About Saving Grace Humane Society

Saving Grace, Inc. is a 501(c)3 private, non-profit organization, and the county’s only full-service animal shelter, providing shelter, food and medical care to thousands of animals each year. Their mission is dedicated to building a humane community in Douglas County through animal sheltering, protection, community services, and advocacy in order to strengthen the human-animal bond. Saving Grace envisions Douglas County as a place where every dog, cat, and small animal has access to basic veterinary care and a place to call home. www.savinggracehumanesociety.org.

Erik Andersen, H.O.P.E. Drug Court participant, stated, “My graduate project involving donations for Saving Grace is important to me because when everything else seemed to fall apart, my dogs were there to cheer me up without judgement or disappointment.  All they needed was my love and attention.  It’s great to come home to dogs that just can’t wait to see you.  No matter what I was going through, I think all pet owners can relate to why this project is important.” 

Mr. Andersen has three community partner drop-off locations: 

• Clint Newell Motors at 1481 NE Stephens Street
• Grocery Outlet at 780 NW Garden Valley Boulevard
• Mountain Mikes Pizza at 772 W Harvard Avenue

Support Saving Grace at Mountain Mike’s Pizza!
Join us for a special fundraiser all day on Monday, July 16, 2025, at Mountain Mike’s Pizza. Just mention that you’re supporting Saving Grace when placing your order, and 15% of your meal’s proceeds will go directly to Saving Grace Humane Society.

Enjoy delicious pizza while helping a great cause—it's a win-win!

Douglas County H.O.P.E. Drug Court Celebrates 110th Graduation

The Douglas County H.O.P.E. Drug Court will celebrate its 110th graduation ceremony on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at 5:15 p.m. at the Douglas County Fairgrounds, Cascade Hall building. Presided over by the Honorable Judge Robert B. Johnson, the H.O.P.E. Drug Court operates under the jurisdiction of the Douglas County Circuit Court. This innovative program is designed to reduce recidivism, address substance use disorders, and support participants in building a life beyond their past criminal actions. It places a strong emphasis on personal transformation and the future potential of each individual.

As a part of the final phase of the program, Graduate Community Projects allow participants to showcase their personal growth, social development, and the internal motivation that drives them toward a higher level of achievement.

To view graduate flyers and learn more about the program, visit the Douglas County website under the Local Public Safety Coordinating Council (LPSCC) at: https://douglascountyor.gov/851/HOPE-Drug-Court.

MPD Case 25-11269

MEDFORD, Ore. – Jackson County Major Assault and Death Investigation Unit (MADIU) detectives are investigating the Medford Police Department (MPD) officer-involved shooting that occurred Friday, July 4 in Hawthorne Park. As part of the MADIU investigation, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO)and Oregon State Police detectives arrived on scene shortly after the incident. JCSO has taken the lead in the investigation. It is standard protocol for an outside agency to take the lead in officer-involved shooting investigations. 

Approximately 8 AM on Friday, July 4, an MPD officer encountered a suspect with a felony warrant along the Bear Creek Greenway in Hawthorne Park. The suspect, Salvador Alex Sanchez, 55, a Medford area transient, was wanted for two counts of unlawful use of a weapon for an incident that occurred earlier this year. The MPD officer called for backup when Sanchez became uncooperative and armed himself with a large, fixed-bladed knife.

Sanchez ignored several requests to drop the knife and advanced at an officer on scene. The officer fired their handgun, striking Sanchez. Officers quickly provided aid to Sanchez and a Mercy Flights ambulance arrived in less than five minutes. Sanchez was transported to a local hospital where he remains in custody in the intensive care unit in stable condition.

On Monday, July 7, the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office filed charges against Sanchez for attempted first-degree assault, two counts of unlawful use of a weapon, resisting arrest, and attempted second-degree escape related to this incident. A Jackson County Grand Jury is scheduled to convene to consider those charges and to decide whether the use of deadly force against him was justified under Oregon law. The two officers involved have been placed on administrative leave, pending that Grand Jury determination, which is standard protocol in Jackson County.

More information will come from the District Attorney’s Office following Grand Jury. There is no further information available for release at this time.

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CORVALLIS, Ore. – Following a successful first event at the Corvallis Community Center, Benton County Commissioner Gabe Shepherd will host seven more town halls this summer throughout the County. Each hour-long town hall will give community members an opportunity to get to know the County’s newest commissioner, ask questions and voice concerns.

Commissioner Shepherd invites the public to join him at any of the following meetings:

• Wednesday, July 9, 6:30 p.m. at the Monroe Community Library (originally announced as 4:00 p.m.)
• Saturday, July 12, 1:30 p.m. at Tunison Community Room in Corvallis
• Thursday, July 24, 3:30 p.m. at the Philomath Museum
• Thursday, July 24, 6:30 p.m. at the Wren Community Hall
• Saturday, August 2, 1:00 p.m. at the Adair Community Center
• Saturday, August 2, 3:30 p.m. at North Albany Park
• Saturday, August 9, 4:00 p.m. at the Alsea Community Library (originally announced as 6:30 p.m.)

Commissioner Shepherd is partnering with mayors and other elected leaders for the town halls. The Commissioner will introduce himself and give an overview of current County projects and priorities. The mayor or another elected official will take the same opportunity to talk about city matters. The meeting will then be opened for questions and comments from the public and a dialogue with the elected leaders.

Gabe Shepherd served two terms on the Corvallis City Council before being elected as Benton County Commissioner in November 2024. He took office on January 2, 2025.

“While campaigning, I made a commitment to hold town halls across Benton County,” says Commissioner Shepherd. “I want to make it easy for folks to engage with their local government and I want to hear – in their own words – what is most important to them.”

At town hall meetings, Commissioner Shepherd represents only himself, not the entire Board of Commissioners. He does not speak for the body. He will not express an opinion on any open land use case before the County and will not receive public comment on any such cases because of his potential role in quasi-judicial processes.

SALEM, OR — The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is pleased to announce the appointment of George B. Lopez as the new Director of the Office of Tribal Affairs, effective July 7, 2025.
 

Lopez joins ODHS with extensive experience in tribal governance and community leadership. Most recently, he served as General Manager for the Klamath Tribes, where he led key administrative and community-based programs, managed a multimillion-dollar budget, and played a leading role in advancing tribal sovereignty and partnerships across education, public safety, and infrastructure development.
 

“This role is essential to ODHS’s continued collaboration with Oregon’s Nine Federally Recognized Tribes,” said ODHS Director Fariborz Pakseresht. “George brings a deep commitment to Tribal communities and a strong track record of advocacy across Oregon. His experience will be a tremendous asset as we strengthen our government-to-government relationships. We’re excited to welcome him to the team and confident he’ll help advance our mission in meaningful ways.”
 

The appointment follows a comprehensive recruitment process and will ensure continuity in leadership and support for tribal engagement.
 

"I'm excited to take on this role and work with the Nine Tribes of Oregon, ODHS staff and leadership, and our partners at all levels," said George B. Lopez, incoming Director of the ODHS Office of Tribal Affairs. "I’m committed to building strong relationships and supporting efforts that make a real difference for Tribal children, families and elders across the state."
 

ODHS also extends its sincere thanks to Sherril Kuhns, who served as interim director. Her dedication to tribal affairs and leadership during this transition have made a lasting impact on the agency’s work with Tribal Nations.
 

For more information about the Office of Tribal Affairs and ODHS’s government-to-government work, visit https://www.oregon.gov/dhs.

Media Contact:
ODHS Communications Office
ODHS-Media@odhs.oregon.gov
(503) 945-5600

Correction: Headline corrected to Linn County.

Linn County, Ore. 8 July 2025- On Sunday, July 6, 2025, at 4:09 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian crash on Highway 34, near milepost 6, in Linn County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a pedestrian, Logan James Irwin (24) of Tangent, entered the eastbound lane and was struck by an eastbound Subaru outback, operated by Edward Thomas Peterson. 

The pedestrian (Irwin) was declared deceased after being transported to an area hospital. 

The Subaru operator (Peterson) was reportedly uninjured and remained at the scene.

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

OSP was assisted by the Linn County Sheriff's Office and ODOT.

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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 the documentation, investigation, and analysis of complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in the use of 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.

CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) is accepting applications for its 2025 Citizens’ Academy. This free program is designed to give participants an opportunity to learn more about the day-to-day operations of the Sheriff’s Office.  

The Academy begins on Tuesday, September 2nd, and meets for ten sessions, ending Tuesday, October 21st. The class will meet each Tuesday evening from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and on two Saturdays, September 13th and October 4th, from 8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Most classes meet at the Sheriff’s Office in Corvallis.  

During the program, participants will gain insight into the challenges and accomplishments of the BCSO. Most of the instructors are sworn deputies who share their experiences with the class.  

The Citizens’ Academy covers all aspects of the Sheriff’s responsibilities including law enforcement, emergency management, search and rescue, parole and probation, jail operations, and the support service and command responsibilities of the Office.

The Academy is geared toward adults but does accept applicants between the ages of 14 and 17, who must have signed a consent form and be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.  

The deadline for applications is August 28, 2025. The class fills up quickly, so we encourage you to get your application in early.

Applications are available online at https://sheriff.bentoncountyor.gov/citizens-academy/ or in person at the Law Enforcement Building, 180 NW 5th Street, Corvallis. For further information, contact the Benton County Sheriff’s Office at 541-766-6858. 

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MEDIA ADVISORY: July 8, 2025

Local nurses are fighting for fair contracts at two Samaritan hospitals while working to protect local birth centers and emergency surgical services  

WHAT: Informational picket and rally for a fair contract at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center in Corvallis.

WHERE: Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center (3600 NW Samaritan Dr., Corvallis, OR 97330)

WHEN: Tuesday, July 8 from 1 – 3 p.m. Speeches start at approximately 2:15 p.m. 

Nurses will be available for interviews before and after speeches. 

WHO: Local frontline nurses and healthcare providers, patients and families. 

WHY: Nurses at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center are holding an informational picket and rally Tuesday, July 8. More than 700 local nurses are currently fighting for fair contracts at both Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center–Samaritan’s flagship hospital in Corvallis–and Samaritan Lebanon Community Hospital in Lebanon. Nurses at both hospitals have been bargaining since March in an attempt to reach a fair contract agreement with Samaritan Health System executives. Nurses’ contracts at Good Samaritan and Samaritan Lebanon expired June 30, 2025.

Nurses at both facilities are committed to reaching a fair contract agreement that includes safe staffing and safe workplaces, fair wages, affordable healthcare, and a stronger voice for providers to improve local healthcare and prevent job cuts and department closures. 

ONA nurses in the Samaritan system have led public opposition to Samaritan’s reported proposals to cut birthing centers at hospitals in Lebanon and Lincoln City and eliminate local emergency surgery teams among other cuts. 

The community has joined nurses and rallied to defend the birth center and emergency surgery team with patients and elected leaders including U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden and U.S. Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04), among those publicly calling on Samaritan Health Services to maintain rural and coastal Oregonians’ full access to labor and delivery services.  

• Community members can email Samaritan decisionmakers here to ask them to save local birth centers and preserve access to essential care.  

Community members are encouraged to attend nurses’ informational picket on July 8 to hear directly from local nurses, ask questions, and share concerns and stories about their community’s healthcare.

Media members are encouraged to attend to capture the voices and stories of frontline nurses, healthcare workers and patients.

NOTE: An informational picket is not a strike or work stoppage. It is a demonstration of solidarity and an opportunity to educate the public about their community’s healthcare.  

NEWPORT, Oregon— South Beach State Park will host its annual sandcastle competition 10 a.m. to noon July 26 in Newport.

Anyone can compete as an individual or as a team for a chance to win first, second or third place. Prizes include baskets with an assortment of beach-themed prizes with the first-place basket stocked with four tickets to the Oregon Coast Aquarium.

Visitors interested in competing can sign up in person starting at 9:30 a.m. July 26 on the beach next to the South Beach day-use parking lot.

"It's a great opportunity for visitors to share their sand sculpting skills and connect with park volunteers and rangers," said Ranger Patrick Newhall.

Last year, 20 teams with a total of 65 competitors vied for the top spots. And as many as 190 visitors watched the sandcastles take shape.

For more information, please contact South Beach State Park at (541) 867-7451 Ext. 0.  

PORTLAND, Ore.—Four defendants made their first appearances in federal court today after committing various offenses—including assaulting federal officers and possessing a destructive device—during ongoing protest gatherings near a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in South Portland.

Riley Freeman, 26, of Portland, has been charged by criminal complaint with the felony offenses of assaulting a federal officer with a deadly or dangerous weapon and possession of an unregistered destructive device.

Andrew Marcum, 22, of Portland, has been charged by criminal complaint with the felony offense of assaulting a federal officer.

Jeremy Hummel, 27, of Portland, has been charged by criminal complaint with the misdemeanor offense of depredation of government property.

Ian Joseph McCarthy, 35, of Portland, has been charged by criminal complaint with the felony offenses of assaulting a federal officer and depredation of government property.

According to court documents and information shared in court, on July 4, 2025, several individuals gathered near an ICE office in South Portland where, for weeks, individuals have repeatedly targeted the building and federal law enforcement officers with threatening statements, discharging pepper spray, and throwing rocks, trash, and bricks.

At approximately 8:00pm, federal officers observed an individual defacing the ICE building guard shack with graffiti. As an officer began to pursue the individual, Marcum ran toward the officer and kicked the officer in the leg, causing the officer to trip.

At approximately 8:41pm, officers observed another individual, later identified as Hummel, defacing the ICE building with black spray paint.

At approximately 11:16pm, as federal officers cleared a group of people off federal property, Freeman threw an incendiary device towards the officers that detonated near them. Freeman attempted to flee but officers pursued him and Freeman was arrested.

The same evening, federal officers observed McCarthy using bolt cutters to attempt to damage a proximity card reader near the vehicle entrance of the building. McCarthy had also been observed removing and damaging the fiber optic cable system to the ICE building, interrupting internet and communication service for the building. While being placed under arrest, McCarthy kicked and punched several officers assisting in the arrest.

All four defendants made their first appearances in federal court Monday before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. They were released on conditions pending future court proceedings.

Felony assault of a federal officer is punishable by up to eight years in federal prison, and assault of a federal officer with a deadly or dangerous weapon is punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison. Felony possession of an unregistered destructive device and depredation of government property over $1,000 are punishable by up to 10 years in federal prison. Depredation of government property under $1,000 is a class A misdemeanor and is punishable by up to one year in prison.

These cases are being investigated by the Federal Protective Service (FPS) and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). They are being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

Since June 13, 2025, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has charged 22 defendants with offenses committed at the ICE building including assaulting federal officers, arson, possession of a destructive device, and depredation of government property.

A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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SALEM, Ore. – The State Land Board will consider appointing Kaitlin Lovell of Colton, Ore. as the Oregon Department of State Lands director during a special 30-minute virtual meeting on Wednesday, July 9, at 10 a.m.

A scientist and lawyer, Lovell has led habitat protection and restoration efforts for the Portland Bureau of Environmental Services since 2007. Her work includes oversight of environmental regulation, permitting, and land use. Recent focus has included developing a publicly owned and managed mitigation bank in Portland and establishing a financing strategy for critical environmental projects.

Lovell previously served as salmon policy coordinator and counsel for Trout Unlimited, where she sought effective science-based state and federal policy solutions and helped draft Oregon's first recovery plans for Oregon Coast Coho and for Lower Columbia and Willamette coho, chinook, and steelhead. Prior to that role, Lovell served as assistant university counsel at Cornell University.

Lovell holds a J.D. from Cornell Law School with a focus in public law and a B.S. in environmental science from Bucknell University.

She has served on multiple DSL advisory groups, including the Elliott State Research Forest Board and a committee reviewing Oregon’s rules for wetlands and waterway permitting and mitigation.

Under Oregon law, the State Land Board appoints the DSL director to a four-year term.

Vicki L. Walker, who served as DSL director from 2018 until her retirement on June 30, announced her intent to step down in December 2024.

At Wednesday’s meeting, the Board will also consider appointing Deputy Director Bill Ryan as interim director and setting a bond amount for the position, as required by statute.

Meeting Details and Agenda

Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at 10 a.m.

This special meeting of the Land Board will be held virtually only. Watch the meeting livestreamed online on the DSL YouTube channel. The full meeting agenda and materials are available on the DSL website.

The public may submit written testimony or sign up to provide spoken testimony (by phone or virtually) during the meeting. Advanced sign-up is required. The deadline is 9:45 a.m. on Wednesday, July 9.

If you need assistance to participate in this meeting due to a disability, please contact Arin Smith at 503-986-5224 or in.n.smith@dsl.oregon.gov">arin.n.smith@dsl.oregon.gov at least two working days prior to the meeting.

About the State Land Board and the Department of State Lands: The State Land Board consists of Governor Tina Kotek, Secretary of State Tobias Read, and State Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner. Established by the Oregon Constitution in 1859, the Land Board oversees the state’s Common School Fund. The Department of State Lands is the Land Board’s administrative agency, managing the lands and resources that help fund Oregon’s public schools and protecting the state’s waterways and wetlands for the many benefits they provide.

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On June 7, 2025, the Newport Police Department arrested Jacob Busch, 41, after investigating an alleged assault in front of the Newport City Hall during a political protest. Video footage of the incident showed Busch quickly exiting his parked car, running over to the protesters before using his chest to push a 74-year-old Army veteran. The male victim fell backwards, striking the back of his head against the concrete sidewalk and was later transported to the hospital for injuries. Busch was arrested later that day on one count of Assault in the Fourth Degree (misdemeanor). Busch was initially held in custody with security set at $75,000.

Given the extent of the victim’s injuries and Busch’s past criminal history, Chief Deputy District Attorney Michael Thornicroft presented this case to the Lincoln County Grand Jury for additional charges. On July 1, 2025, Busch was indicted for Assault in the Second Degree - Felony (serious physical injury); Assault in the Fourth Degree – Felony (three prior convictions); and two counts of Disorderly Conduct in the Second Degree. Busch was force released by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office on July 3, 2025 and was later arraigned out-of-custody on the indictment on July 7, 2025. Busch remains out of on release and will return to court on August 25, 2025 for an early resolution conference.

The Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office would like to thank the Newport Police Department for their swift response and extensive investigation into these allegations to ensure safety for all those who participate in lawful, orderly assembly.   

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                 

DATE: July 7, 2025

CONTACT: Salem Police Communications Office | spdmedia@cityofsalem.net

Suspect arrested in connection with May 2025 shooting

Salem, Ore. — After an extensive investigation stemming from a shooting incident in May 2025, Salem Police Violent Crimes Unit Detectives with the assistance of the Salem Police S.W.A.T. team, served a search warrant in the 300 block of Cornwell St in Woodburn, Oregon this morning, July 7.  During the warrant service they arrested Jovani Bravo, 24, at his residence for his involvement in the case.

The related incident occurred on May 17, 2025, at approximately 1:15 a.m., when officers were dispatched to the call of a gunshot wound that had occurred in the 1200 block of State St. The original disturbance started at a bar in the downtown Salem area. Persons involved in the disturbance left in two separate vehicles and eventually traveled east on State St. Bravo, who was a passenger in one of the vehicles, shot several rounds at the other vehicle striking a 24-year-old female victim in the leg. The victim was treated and released at a local area hospital.

Bravo was lodged at the Marion County Correctional Facility on multiple charges related to this case and will be arraigned today at 2:30pm at the Marion County Court Annex 4000 Aumsville Hwy SE.

All further inquiries into this investigation should be directed to the Marion County District Attorney’s Office.

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On June 21, 2025 Deputies responded to the report of a body that was found near the 92000 block of Marcola Rd. and close to the river. When deputies and Marcola Fire arrived they located a deceased male near the river at a makeshift camp. There were no obvious signs of suspicious activity. The medical examiners office was contacted and they took control of the deceased male. No further information will be released at this time due to the ongoing investigation and next of kin notifications.

H.O.P.E. Drug Court Participant Partners with ODHS for Family Reunification

ROSEBURG, OR – A H.O.P.E. Drug Court participant has partnered with ODHS (Oregon Department of Human Services) to collect needed items for families going through the reunification process through a community project called “Families United in Hope” emphasizing the importance of having items to assist with the bonding process.

Ashley Alexander, HOPE Drug Court participant, chose to help the Child Welfare Division through ODHS.  “I am doing this project as I was once in the shoes of those parents feeling worthless like there was no way possible to get through the beginning stages of recovery, but as long as we stay willing and accept the help and support we are given, it is possible.  I am here to help the parents believe in themselves and rebuild their relationships with their children,” stated Alexander.

About the Project: Supporting Family Visits

The mission of the Child Welfare Division is to ensure every child and family is empowered to live a safe, stable, and healthy life. One key part of that mission is supporting meaningful connections during family visits, especially when parents are visiting their child(ren) in an office setting. 

“The ODHS, Child Welfare Program is honored to assist H.O.P.E. Drug Court Participant, Ms. Alexander in meeting her goal of supporting quality family time between parents and children in foster care.  Maintaining the critical bond and relationship between parents and children as they experience the trauma of family separation is of paramount concern, and her investment in supporting and encouraging parents while they are on this difficult journey could not be more supported and welcomed by us,” stated Jessia Hunter, ODHS Child Welfare Program Manager.

This project aims to provide support for parents who may not have anything to bring with them during these visits. Each participating family will receive a bag of items designed to assist with the bonding process, making the visit more engaging and comforting. Additionally, a photo of the child(ren) and parent(s) will be taken during the visit and given to both parties to keep, helping maintain connection while they are apart.  Mary Guthrie, Recovery Support Team Coordinator, ODHS Child Welfare – Douglas County, added, “Ms. Alexander is giving back to other parents for them to understand how important they are and know “They Matter”.  Change is possible with honesty, open-mindedness and willingness.”

For more information about the Child Welfare Division, please visit the Oregon Department of Human Services: https://www.oregon.gov/dhs/children/pages/index.aspx.

Ms. Alexander is hosting a car wash event on Saturday, July 12, from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m. in Sherm’s Thunderbird parking lot to raise funds for her upcoming project during the Graffiti Cruise weekend. All proceeds will go toward purchasing the remaining items needed to complete the project.

If you'd prefer to donate items instead of funds, three community drop box locations are available:

• Douglas County Juvenile Department Lobby
  First Floor of the Courthouse
  1036 SE Douglas Avenue, Room CH 105A
• Adapt Integrated Healthcare
  548 SE Jackson Street
• Clint Newell Motors
  662 NE Garden Valley Boulevard

Items Needed to Support Family Reunification Visits
Ms. Alexander is collecting new items to help strengthen the parent-child bond during family visits. These items will be included in take-home bags for families and used during visits to create positive shared experiences.

She hopes to receive donations of the following:

□ Children’s Books

□ Baby Activity Items

□ Puzzles

□ Card Games / Small Board Games

□ Matchbox Cars

□ Coloring Books and Crayons

□ Activity Books

□ Fruit Snacks / Bottled Water

□ Play-Doh / Bubbles

□ Small Toys / Action Figures

□ Stuffed Animals / Small Dolls

□ Building Blocks

□ Sensory Toys

Your generosity makes a lasting difference in the lives of children and families during a challenging time.

The Douglas County H.O.P.E. Drug Court program is preparing for their 110^th graduation on August 26, 2025 at 5:15 p.m. at the Douglas County Fairgrounds in the Cascade Hall building.  Douglas County H.O.P.E. Drug Court, with Honorable Judge Robert B. Johnson, operates under the jurisdiction of Douglas County Circuit Court. The structure is designed to reduce recidivism, address substance use disorders and encourage participants to reflect on their lives beyond their criminal actions. It emphasizes personal transformation and future potential. Graduate Community Projects, which take place during the final phase of the program, offer participants a chance to demonstrate their personal growth, social development, and the internal shift that motivates them to reach a higher level of achievement.

Graduate flyers are placed on the Douglas County website through the Local Public Safety Coordinating Council (LPSCC) under H.O.P.E. Drug Court, go to https://douglascountyor.gov/851/HOPE-Drug-Court.  

Salem – Training and educating Oregon workers is essential to creating and maintaining safe and healthy workplaces. To help expand training and education opportunities, the Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) offers a grant program that funds ideas to improve the safety and health of Oregon workers in high-hazard industries. And we are ready to help you transform your ideas into results.

The division is accepting grant applications to create innovative workplace safety or health training or education projects. Applications are due by 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3. Oregon OSHA prioritizes  projects that engage workers on essential workplace safety or health topics. Projects may include an immersive training video or a well-designed safety publication or a multi-media package of best practices for a specific job task.

Go online to learn about how to apply or contact Theodore (Ted) Bunch at 971-375-8001 or email e.bunch@dcbs.oregon.gov">theodore.bunch@dcbs.oregon.gov.  

The grant program focuses on high-hazard industries in Oregon, including forestry, construction, and agriculture. A grant application may concentrate on a specific work process, targeting a reduction or elimination of related hazards. Any labor or employer group, educational institution that is affiliated with a labor or employer group, or other nonprofit entity may apply.

Grants may not be used to pay for projects that are purely for research, ongoing activities, or for activities required by law. Only new or substantially expanded projects will be considered for funding. Oregon OSHA is seeking project ideas that advance workplace safety and health training or education. We are not looking for ideas that handle concerns that have already been addressed. Materials produced by grant recipients cannot be sold for profit. All grant materials become available to the public. Depending on the type of project, some materials will be housed in the Oregon OSHA Resource Center while some will be available online.

Some examples of past grant projects include:

• Translation into Spanish of pesticide labels used in reforestation in Oregon and Washington
• Development of a series of toolbox talks addressing suicide prevention in the construction industry
• A virtual reality training for health care providers to help identify hazards related to infection control and prevention in hospitals
• Creation of safe-design guidelines for anchoring systems used as part of logging operations
• An educational program for nurses to prevent ergonomic-related injuries
• Videos and related training aids describing the most prevalent health hazards in construction: silica, lead, noise, and asbestos
• Spanish-language flip charts designed to help prevent heat illness among forest workers

The Oregon Legislature launched the Occupational Safety and Health Education and Training Grant Program in 1990. Award recommendations are made by Oregon OSHA’s Safe Employment Education and Training Advisory Committee, a group with members from business, labor, and government.

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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.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Colin Fogarty, Director of Communications

Oregon Community Foundation, cfogarty@oregoncf.org

DON’T LET ANYONE DIM THEIR LIGHT

Black Education Elders Honored for Their Legacies Supporting Students

PORTLAND, Ore. — Believe in Black children. Draw inspiration and strength from your ancestors, elders and community. Build the school system students deserve. And don’t let anyone dim their light.

These were the messages from visionary Black educators honored this summer by Oregon Community Foundation. Some honorees led sweeping institutional change. Others built community organizations from the ground up. And many worked within the system to inspire and educate generations of Oregon students.

Honoring a Legacy of Service

The event “Honoring Our Legacy, Investing in the Future” marked Juneteenth and recognized 13 educators for contributions spanning more than 50 years. It was hosted by OCF’s Black Student Success Initiative.

“My grandmother’s mother was born into slavery. So this is not a theory for me,” said Ron Herndon, honored for his advocacy for Portland children and nationally recognized early childhood education leadership. “We have to build upon the strength that has been given to us through our ancestors.”

Herndon recommended that anyone working with Black students familiarize themselves with the works of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, Dr. W.E.B. Du Bois, Booker T. Washington and Dr. Carter G. Woodson.

With those educators and authors in mind, Herndon co‑founded the Black Education Center and led the Portland chapter of the Black United Front, which helped end harmful student‑busing practices in Portland Public Schools in 1979 and influenced the selection of the district’s first Black superintendent, Dr. Matthew Prophet, in 1982. He later became director of Albina Head Start and president of the National Head Start Association.

“Honoring these leaders shows where we’ve been, how far we’ve come and how far we still have to go,” said Marcy Bradley, chief community engagement and equity officer for OCF. “Their work improved education for Black children and for all Oregon students.”

Stories of Courage and Commitment

The evening featured tributes from leaders inspired by those honored, including Joe McFerrin, president and CEO of Portland Opportunities Industrialization Center and Kali Thorne‑Ladd, CEO of Children’s Institute and co‑founder of KairosPDX. Marsha Williams, also a co‑founder of KairosPDX, served as emcee.

During a panel moderated by OCF President and CEO Lisa Mensah, Herndon and fellow honoree Dr. Harriet Adair shared personal reflections.

Adair recalled that her own mother was barred from teaching in Portland Public Schools. While her family and community believed in her, the system often did not.

When Adair was a high school senior her counselor expressed surprise that she intended to attend college after she’d been offered a scholarship to Bryn Mawr College, adding that Adair lacked the math classes to attend. Adair said she vowed never be the adult who kills a child’s dream.

Adair became a middle school teacher then principal of King Elementary School in a historically Black Northeast Portland neighborhood. She later earned a doctorate and served as assistant superintendent of PPS. Her former high school, once named for slave‑owning President James Madison, is now named for Leodis V. McDaniel, a Black principal who once led it.

Innovators Who Opened Doors

Another honoree reflected on how her grandfather inspired her.

“If my grandfather could get an education when it was against the law then I could learn to do anything,” said Renee Anderson, who battled racism to become a mathematics teacher in the 1960s and founded and led Oregon MESA for 40 years. The organization offers science, technology, engineering and math education and mentoring to students of color, girls and non‑binary students, low‑income students and those who are the first in their families to attend college.

“Now we call it STEM education but Renee Anderson did this long before it had a name,” Bradley said.

Advancing Equity in Education

Honorees included Dr. Darrell Millner, professor emeritus and former chair of Portland State University’s Black Studies Department, and Lolenzo Poe, who launched Multnomah County’s Schools Uniting Neighborhood program and co‑chaired the Portland School Board.

As chief equity and diversity officer for PPS, Poe developed the district’s Racial Educational Equity Plan. The initiative helped raise Black student graduation rates.

“Lolenzo has been a giant force for equity in Portland and Multnomah County,” Thorne‑Ladd said, calling Poe “the Black godfather of Portland’s electoral and political scene.”

Solutions Rooted in Community

Many of those honored were instrumental in advocating for the Oregon Legislature's landmark investments in Black student success. They pushed for policies requiring community voice in how funds are spent and urged OCF to get involved.

Since 2019 OCF has invested more than $6 million in the Black Student Success Initiative and a network of 25 Black‑led, Black‑serving organizations that provide direction to funders on best practices from early childhood through post‑secondary.

“When you let the community that knows the challenge create the solutions what you get are practices that work for all children. Best practices spread out from one group of children to the next,” Bradley said.

Looking Forward, Looking Back

For Bradley, the event was as much about looking forward as looking back. Black student achievement continues to lag other groups in Oregon.

“Improving student achievement it’s a tough nut to crack,” she said. “There’s not just one place for educators to learn how to do it. The people we honored are bold and brilliant educators. We can all learn from them and draw courage for the challenging work that lies ahead.”

See a full list of the honorees and their biographies below.

Honoree Biographies

Ms. Barbara Ward

Believer. Cultivator. Guide.

“Belief doesn’t just happen. It comes from understanding who you are and that you have unlimited potential to change this world, just by being your unique self.”

Ms. Barbara Ward understands the power of belief. Serving as De La Salle North Catholic School’s counselor for 16 years, she believed in the future of thousands of young people who walked through her door. Guiding them on a journey into the rest of their lives, Ms. Ward is known by countless students as someone who not only knew they were destined for great things, but helped them discover it for themselves.

Born in 1952, Ms. Ward learned how to cultivate her own belief in herself at an early age, and in a time when every door to success was firmly shut. Facing the daily realities of oppressive systems that had no place for her, Ms. Ward would not be dissuaded, and she created her own. Her love of education not only flourished, but later became infectious, and she would spend the next decades of her career pouring into generations of students, illuminating their path to college and beyond. Thousands of North and Northeast Portland students credit Ms. Ward for opening up their futures and showing them that the world was waiting for the unique contribution only they could bring.

• Retired College Counselor, De La Salle North Catholic School

Ms. Cynthia Richardson

Champion. Path-maker. Mobilizer.

“No matter where you are, you go in, know who you are, and stand for what's right.”

The first African American high school principal of Salem-Keizer school district, Cynthia Richardson spent the last 44 years opening and walking through doors that had been closed for too long. And she taught her students that they could do the same.

Serving as a teacher, assistant principal and principal, district Director of Student Equity, Access, and Advancement, Vice Chair of the state Board of Education, and currently, the Chair of the Salem-Keizer School Board, Ms. Richardson has inspired thousands of young people to discover and live in their unique identities. Building deep and lasting relationships with students and families over the years, and nurturing their personal and academic success, Cynthia’s impact on her community and beyond will continue for generations to come.

• Principal, Salem-Keizer School District
• School Board Chair, Salem-Keizer Public Schools
• Director of Student Equity, Access, and Advancement, Salem-Keizer Public Schools

Dr. Darrell Millner

Truth-teller. Activist. Future-builder.

“We can’t change what happened in history ... the only thing we can change is what happens now."

As Professor Emeritus and former Department Chair of Black Studies of Portland State University, Dr. Darrell Millner is a widely recognized expert and preeminent scholar of the early 19th-century western movement of African-Americans, specializing in the Oregon and California trail experiences.

With a doctorate in education, Dr. Millner spent the last 50 years awakening students to the complex and largely unrecognized truth of the racist exclusionary laws of early Oregon, the richness of Afro-American Literature and Black cinema, and much more. Uplifting diverse histories in his scholarly work, Dr. Millner's equally profound contributions as Director of Multicultural Education for the Portland Public Schools have impacted thousands of young Oregonians. Dr. Millner's legacy points us all to the deep truths of history, and that when we acknowledge them, we have the power to revolutionize our future.

• Professor Emeritus, Former Department Chair of Black Studies, Portland State University
• Director of Multicultural Education of Portland Public Schools

Dr. Ernest Hartzog

Activist. Pioneer. Transformer.

“Learn the value of forgiveness, of love, and of brotherhood, as we work in the trenches to bring about equality in our nation.”

In 1969, following a massive ten-day student walkout, Dr. Ernest Hartzog was named San Diego’s first African-American high school Principal. Rooted deeply in the civil rights movement and with over 40 years in public and private education, ranging from Michigan and Pennsylvania to Washington D.C. and Oregon, Dr. Ernest Hartzog left an indelible mark across our nation’s educational landscape.

As he trailblazed the journey for equal rights in Oregon, including the desegregation of our state’s schools, Dr. Hartzog’s vision to widen avenues for those coming after him led to him founding the Oregon Alliance of Black School Educators and served as President of the National Alliance of Black School Educators. Today, as part owner of MJOD Consulting, a leadership and organizational development organization, Dr. Hartzog continues to invest his wisdom and leadership in his community.

• Adjunct professor at California Western University, San Diego and Portland State University
• Founder, Building Blocks to Success, Oregon Alliance of Black School Educators
• President of the National Alliance of Black School Educators
• Consultant at the Center for Studies of The Person, in La Jolla, Calif.
• Consultant for the National Training Laboratory for Applied Behavioral Sciences (NTL), in Washington D.C.
• Member of the Advisory board of the “I Have a Dream” Foundation and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry

Mr. George Russell

Advocate. Powerhouse. Wayfinder.

“With the right mindset, the right belief system, and the willpower, we can find a way to do what’s best for our kids.”

Named Oregon’s Superintendent of the Year in 2005, George Russell served the Eugene 4J School District for over a decade, but his presence and influence in the educational system extend far and wide. Contributing to the Danforth Foundation’s Forum for the American School Superintendent and Harvard University’s Superintendent Leadership program, Mr. Russell has been recognized for his ability to mobilize great minds and action on behalf of this country’s young people.

His belief in the innate possibilities of all children has always driven his vision for and definition of success. As former President of the NAACP’s Education Committee and Executive Board Member with Blacks in Government, Mr. Russell’s influence in education and civic service has created multiple pathways for, and uplifted the dreams of, thousands of children and families and entire communities across Oregon.

• Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2023 First Citizen Award Winner
• Member of Oregon State Board of Education, Children’s Institute Board, Looking Glass Community Services Board and United Way of Lane County’s Advisory Board
• 2017 United Way Alton F. Baker Award winner
• NAACP board member and Chair of its Education Committee
• Executive board member of Blacks in Government
• 2005 Oregon’s Superintendent of the Year

Dr. Harriet Adair

Firebrand. Activator. Trailblazer.

“With the right kind of energy and level of support to students, they’ll do all sorts of phenomenal things.”

The self-proclaimed daughter of a “door-opener,” Dr. Harriet Adair confidently strode into Portland Public Schools in 1970 as a middle school teacher. Serving a district that at one point barred her own mother from teaching because of her race, Dr. Adair never doubted that she belonged in every room she entered. She spent the next 47 years making sure every child she met knew they belonged too. Moving to the rank of Principal and finally to Assistant Superintendent of the district’s Office of Early Learners, Schools and Student Supports, Dr. Adair’s imprint on the lives of children, from preschool to high-school graduation is unmistakable.

As her family’s sixth generation with a master’s degree, Dr. Adair earned her doctorate from Brigham Young University, and in turn, wove this legacy into mentoring the next generations of teachers and leaders of color. Awarded the President’s Award from the Confederation of Oregon School Administrators, Dr. Adair will go down in history as someone who changed the landscape of education — and the future of thousands of Oregon youth.

• Principal and Assistant Superintendent, Portland Public Schools
• 2014 President’s Award from the Confederation of Oregon School Administrators
• Member of Oregon Governor’s Early Learning Council

Mrs. Joyce Braden Harris

Groundbreaker. Revolutionary. Leader.

“Culturally responsive education means using history and culture as bridges to children’s learning — making sure that you enter into their world.”

In 1969, Joyce Braden Harris came to Reed College on a full academic ride as one of only 17 African American students — and she never looked back. Recognized for her groundbreaking work in the national civil rights movement and education, Harris co-founded the Black Education Center, which provided free summer education to African American children in Portland. In 1974, the center became a full-time private school.

Awarded the Woman of Excellence in Education Award, among many others, Harris’s Baseline Essay on African-American Traditions in Language Arts has been recognized and adopted by hundreds of school districts across the country. Her years of teaching, activism and consultancy within the Portland Public Schools district and beyond have revolutionized curricula and ensured generations of children receive the equitable education they deserve.

• Co-founder, Black Education Center
• Member of Albina Ministerial Alliance Coalition for Justice and Police Reform
• Woman of Excellence in Education Award winner

Ms. Linda Jean Harris

Visionary. Dedicated Principal. Coach.

Linda Jean Harris is a retired educator who served for 33 years with Portland Public Schools, including as Assistant Superintendent. She holds degrees in Language Arts, Psychology, and School Administration, and earned her Superintendent’s Certification from Lewis & Clark College.

Following her PPS career, Linda spent 13 years at Self-Enhancement, Inc. (SEI) Academy as principal and administrative coach. Under her leadership, Woodlawn School earned state and national recognition, including the Title I Program of Merit for Math and a five-year national grant for High Performing Learning Communities. At SEI Academy, she helped the school receive the National Center for Urban School Transformation Award and the National Title I Distinguished School Award.

A firm believer in instructional leadership, Linda champions the belief that all students can learn at high levels.

Mr. Lolenzo Poe

Culture-shifter. Organizer. Justice-seeker.

“In our focus on educational equity, you cannot waver. If you commit resources, we can ultimately close the gap.”

Born and raised in North Portland, Mr. Poe’s pursuit of justice and equal access to education has marked a decades-long service in communities across the state. Earning his Bachelor’s degree and then Master’s of Public Administration at Oregon State University, Poe spent the next 32 years at Multnomah County, first directing the Department of Community & Family Services, and later as director of the Department of School & Community Partnerships. A founder of the acclaimed Schools Uniting Neighborhoods program, Mr. Poe’s influence and impact extend across communities throughout the state.

As the Director of Strategic Partnerships and Chief Equity and Diversity Officer and Director of Partnership Development for Portland Public Schools, Mr. Poe was instrumental in developing and driving the district's Racial Equity Plan, which resulted in astonishing achievements. In his own words, a “product of a community that took care of and loved its own,” Mr. Poe’s life and service have left a lasting and unwavering reflection of this love in action.

• Chief Equity and Diversity Officer and Director of Partnership Development, Portland Public Schools
• Director of Strategic Partnerships, Portland Public Schools
• Director, Department of Community & Family Services
• Director, Multnomah County Department of Community & Family Services
• Director of the Department of School & Community Partnerships, Multnomah County
• Co-chair, Urban League of Portland Board of Directors
• Founder, Oregon Schools Uniting Neighborhoods program

Mr. Ray Leary

Overcomer. Empowerer. Legacy-maker.

“By embracing the unknown, seeking relationships and building connections, you can create a momentum so great, you cannot be denied.”

Mr. Leary’s multifaceted leadership in the city of Portland has had a sprawling and sustained impact on its educational landscape as well as economic and civic development. A graduate of Jefferson High School in the 1970’s, and co-captain of one of the first ever all-Black Oregon State Championship winning teams, Mr. Leary blazed an early path of pioneering places, initiatives and accomplishments most had only dreamed of. As Director of Development of the Urban League of Portland, and the first African American commissioner on Metro’s Metropolitan Exposition Recreation Commission, Leary’s advocacy has always been rooted in his unwavering belief in the power of resilience, mentorship and empowering youth.

Co-Director of Self Enhancement, Inc., a nationally acclaimed youth empowerment program with a decades-long presence and impact in Portland public schools, Mr. Leary has brought forth his own deeply personal experience of persevering against all odds to create a future for all Portland children where dreams have the power to turn into legacies of change.

• Co-director of Self Enhancement, Inc.
• Director of Development of the Urban League of Portland
• Commissioner, Metro Metropolitan Exposition Recreation Commission

Mrs. Renee Anderson

Creator. Advocate. Firebrand.

“If my grandfather could get an education when it was against the law, then I could learn to do anything.”

Mrs. Renee Anderson’s journey to Portland came by way of San Francisco, where, as a young girl in the early 1960s, she was forced to fight through blatant racism and daily obstacles to pursue her dream of teaching mathematics. Not only did she achieve this dream, teaching at Berkeley and later as Director of the Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) Program at San Francisco State University, she made it her goal to do the same for thousands of young people coming after her.

In 1985, Anderson was recruited to launch the MESA Program for Portland Public Schools. She built the program from the ground up, and the results of her investment and commitment to equity in STEM over the last 40 years are incalculable. Today, her role on the Board of Oregon Alliance of Black School Educators, and as Co-Chair of the African American/Black Student Success Advisory Group for the Oregon Department of Education, Anderson’s deep belief in the endless possibilities of Oregon’s youth knows no bounds.

• Director, Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) Program at San Francisco State University
• Founder, Portland Public Schools MESA Program
• Board member, Oregon Alliance of Black School Educators
• Outreach Director, Saturday Academy
• Co-Chair, African American/Black Student Success Advisory Group, Oregon Department of Education
• Program Coordinator, Black Student Success Network

Mr. Ron Herndon

Provoker. Uplifter. Reformer.

“Whatever I have been a part of in my life has been because of the influences of adults who pushed us towards excellence in education.”

Mr. Ron Herndon came to Reed College in 1968 on a Rockefeller scholarship and discovered entrenched racist and discriminatory systems as deep as he’d ever encountered. He and his colleagues spent their tenure at Reed involved in constant activism, and it was here that he co-founded the widely acclaimed Black Educational Center. In 1975, Herndon was named director of the Albina Ministerial Alliance Head Start Program, and later, organized the Portland chapter of the Black United Front to reform and eventually abolish harmful busing practices in Portland.

Instrumental in the hiring of the city’s first Black school superintendent, Herndon established himself as a leader in Portland’s educational system, but his advocacy for equality and justice can be seen across sectors of society. A recipient of the Gladys McCoy Award for “outstanding lifetime volunteer service dedicated to improving the [Multnomah] county community,” Mr. Herndon’s dogged determination to uplift community power has made, and continues to make, a lasting difference.

• Co-Founder, Black Educational Center
• Director, Albina Ministerial Alliance Head Start Program
• President, National Head Start Association
• Founder, Portland chapter of Black United Front
• President, National Head Start Association
• Gladys McCoy Award winner

Mr. Tony Hopson Sr.

Agitator. Pursuer. Radical.

“Because our young people were taught to see themselves as leaders, today they are in leadership positions themselves, in Portland and beyond.”

When Tony Hopson Sr. started a summer camp for Black students in Northeast Portland 44 years ago, he could never have imagined the organization it has become, serving approximately 17,000 Portland youth every year, and changing the trajectory of a generation of Portland families’ futures. Today, Self Enhancement, Inc. (SEI) is known for its wide-reaching presence in Portland’s public schools, providing opportunities and mentoring students to succeed in academics, leadership and life through college and beyond. A graduate of Jefferson High School and member of the historic 1972 basketball state championship team that faced insurmountable odds, Hopson’s personal and professional fight for justice began early in life and has never stopped.

Hopson not only fought back the closure of Jefferson High School in 2010 but, through the work of SEI, achieved staggering results by moving the graduation rate from 54% to well over 93%. Though retiring as the organization’s CEO in 2024, Hopson’s commitment to empowering youth and holding Portland’s leaders accountable to unconditional and equal educational opportunities has no end date.

• Founder, Self Enhancement, Inc.

About Oregon Community Foundation

Since 1973, Oregon Community Foundation has worked to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. In 2024, OCF distributed more than $211 million in grants and scholarships in every county in Oregon in partnership with donors and volunteers. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, visit oregoncf.org.
 

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Oregon Heritage, a division of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, awarded 20 grants totaling $300,000 for historic properties and archaeology projects. Six 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 14 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 Burns, Lebanon, Malin, Portland, Roseburg, and Salem.
• One archaeology project:
  • Southern Oregon University for a study to develop a plastic identification tool.
• Preservation of 13 historic properties:
  • Kraus House, Aurora Colony Historical Society
  • Antelope School, Antelope
  • Marshfield Cemetery, Coos Bay
  • Madras Army Airfield North Hangar, Madras
  • City of Talent Town Hall, Talent
  • Train Depot, Wasco
  • Columbia County Courthouse, St. Helens
  • Fogelbo House, Portland
  • Bush House, Salem
  • Petersen Farm House, Deschutes County
  • Tillamook Air Museum, Tillamook
  • EM&M Building, Enterprise
  • Weissenfels Blacksmith Shop, Mt.Angel

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 503-986-0685.

Portland, OR — The Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation (OLSHF) is excited to announce its inaugural KTP (Keeping the Promise) Summer Soirée, a family-friendly open house event on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at The Aerie at Eagle Landing in Happy Valley.

The event celebrates 100 years of Lions service inspired by Helen Keller’s historic 1925 address to the Lions International Convention. In her call to action, she urged Lions to become “Knights of the Blind in my crusade against darkness.” This century-long commitment remains the heart of OLSHF’s mission, ensuring all Oregonians have access to essential vision and hearing care.

The KTP Summer Soirée will offer an informal, welcoming environment designed to introduce friends, family, and community members to OLSHF’s mission. Attendees can expect: Drinks and small bites, Mini golf and family-friendly games, Interactive program tables showcasing OLSHF’s impact, and Networking and celebrations of dedicated volunteers and supporters.

This summer's event also highlights a major milestone: OLSHF’s 2 millionth school vision screening. Since 1994, the School Vision Screening (SVS) program has grown into the largest of its kind in the nation, screening nearly 200,000 Oregon students annually and helping uncover vision issues that might otherwise go unnoticed.

“More than a party, this event is a celebration of a century of service and the community partnerships that make our mission possible,” said Kate Mayne, Marketing & Events Manager. “We invite everyone to join us, meet our team, and see firsthand how we’re keeping the promise to Helen Keller.”

Event Details:
Date: Thursday, August 7, 2025
Time: 4:00 – 8:00 PM
Location: The Aerie at Eagle Landing, Happy Valley, OR
Tickets: On sale through July 24 at olshf.org/ktp-summer-soiree
Transportation: Lyft discount codes available upon request; free parking on site.

For media inquiries or more information:
Kate Mayne
Marketing & Events Manager
Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation
Email: kate@olshf.org
Website: olshf.org
Follow us on social media: @olshf

Springfield, OR.  Eugene Springfield Fire’s water rescue crews responded to a rescue call just above Bellinger boat landing on the McKenzie in the evening of July 5th.  The call came in just before 6PM and five people were rescued, three in a drift boat boat that got swamped, and two bystanders that tried to help and ended up getting in trouble. The Captain on Boat 5 had to jump in to rescue one off a strainer that had their arm stuck in the strainer with their head barely above the water, face down and water running over their head. The Captain ended up breaking a branch and pushing them under the strainer and grabbing them on the other side. Crews were surprised how dangerous of a situation the individuals were in because it was never relayed to dispatch or crews until they got out on the water.  There were ultimately no injuries on this call.  

Eugene, OR.  Eugene Springfield Fire is on scene of a fire at a West Eugene manufacturing facility. Just before 2 PM on July 5th, ESF responded with full first alarm to report of a commercial structure fire at the original Archimoto building in the 1800 block of West 2nd Ave.  Crews from Station 2 arrived in about 2-1/2 minutes from dispatch, to find heavy fire and smoke from the exterior of the building.  With concerns that the fire had gotten in to the building, additional resources were called as part of a second alarm.  Crews quickly discovered that the fire was burning manufacturing stock in the back parking lot with no building involvement and turned the additional resources away. Fire crews brought the fire under control quickly and the cause is under investigation. 

Updated to add the time of the crash. 

COOS COUNTY, Ore. 5 July 2025 – On Friday, July 4, 2025, at approximately 1:06 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a four-vehicle fatal crash in Coos County near Lakeside.

The preliminary investigation indicated a beige Kia Optima, operated by Manual Samuel Starr (38) of Coos Bay, was traveling northbound when it crossed the centerline for unknown reasons. The Kia sideswiped a southbound black Toyota Corolla, operated by Kent McQuillen (61) of Florence, before colliding head-on with a black Dodge Ram, operated by Jose Maria Rodriguez Garcia (55) of Coos Bay. A southbound silver Subaru Outback, operated by Lori Priest (61) of Lake Stevens, Washington, was unable to avoid the crash and also collided head-on with the Kia.  

The operator of the Kia (Starr) was pronounced deceased at the scene. The Kia’s rear passenger, Shatara Rosemarie Holmes (39) of Coos Bay, was also pronounced deceased at the scene. A seven-month-old female infant, the operator and passenger’s child, did not appear to be injured, but was transported to a local hospital.

The operator of the Dodge Ram (Rodriguez Garcia) was transported to a local hospital with serious injuries. The front passenger, Nicole Virginia Rodriguez (44) of Coos Bay, was transported to a local hospital by air ambulance with serious injuries. Passenger Jose Rodriguez Chase Jr. (20) of Coos Bay, a three-year-old male passenger, and a 14-year-old female passenger had reported minor injuries.   

The operator of the Subaru (Priest) had reported minor injuries. Passenger Nanette Myra Priest (55) of Lake Stevens (WA) and a 10-year-old passenger were not injured.

The operator of the Toyota (McQuillen) was not injured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Coos County Sheriff’s Office, Hauser Fire Department, North Bay Fire Department, Lower Umpqua Ambulance, Bay Cities Ambulance, Coos County Medical Examiner, North Bend Chapel, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
 

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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.

MORROW COUNTY, Ore. 5 July 2025 – On Thursday, July 3, 2025, at approximately 10:28 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash in Morrow County near Boardman.

The preliminary investigation indicated a gray Honda Odyssey, operated by Timothy W. Nelson (50), unknown address, was traveling eastbound on Interstate 84 near milepost 162 when it left the roadway and struck the end of a guardrail.

The Honda operator (Nelson) was declared deceased at the scene.

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

OSP was assisted by the Morrow County Sheriff’s Office, Boardman Police Department, Boardman Fire Department, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
 

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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.