An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, William Carl Jordan, died the evening of July 13, 2025. Jordan was incarcerated at Oregon State Penitentiary (OSP) in Salem and passed away in the infirmary while on hospice care. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified.

Jordan entered DOC custody on June 6, 2024, from Washington County with an earliest release date of September 17, 2026. Jordan was 68 years old.

DOC takes all in-custody deaths seriously. The agency is responsible for the care and custody of approximately 12,000 men and women who are incarcerated in 12 institutions across the state. While crime information is public record, DOC elects to disclose only upon request out of respect for any family or victims.

OSP is a multi-custody prison located in Salem that houses approximately 2,000 adults in custody. OSP is surrounded by a 25-foot-high wall with 10 towers. The facility has multiple special housing units including disciplinary segregation, behavioral health, intermediate care housing, and an infirmary (with hospice) with 24-hour nursing care. OSP participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises including the furniture factory, laundry, metal shop, and contact center. It provides a range of correctional programs and services including education, work-based education, work crews, and pre-release services. OSP was established in 1866 and, until 1959, was Oregon’s only prison.

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At 7:03 p.m. on July 14, 2025, firefighters responded to a report of smoke showing in the area of Vine Street and Oakland Avenue.  Firefighters arrived on scene to find a single-family residential structure, located on Poplar Street, with flames and smoke showing from the rear portion of the structure. Upon arrival, firefighters found a hot tub that was fully engulfed with flames and was spreading to the rear corner of the nearby residential structure. 

Upon arrival, firefighters confirmed residents of the home had already evacuated the structure. Firefighters extinguished the fire, checked for extension to the interior portion of the home, and completed overhaul of the structure. The single-family residence sustained structural, smoke, and water damage. The hot tub was a total loss. The cause of the fire is under investigation. No injuries were sustained due to the fire.

Fifteen firefighters assisted with firefighting operations. Other agencies assisting with the fire included Central Douglas Fire & Rescue, Avista Utilities, and Pacific Power.

ORCA adds more than 15,000 affordable homes in the pipeline since its roll out

Lane County proudly announces a significant step forward in regional economic development with the approval of Sierra Pacific Industries’ (SPI) $253 million Oregon Strategic Investment Program application.

The tax incentive, approved unanimously by the Lane County Board of Commissioners on June 10, is designed to encourage long-term business investment and signal to other companies that Lane County is a prime location for growth and innovation. The Board’s support underscores Lane County’s focus on fostering business growth, supporting jobs, and strengthening the local economy.

The Oregon Business Development Commission, part of Business Oregon, also voted unanimously on July 11 to provide the final necessary approval of the application.

Board of County Commissioners Chair David Loveall emphasized the broader significance of this investment, noting that it sets a precedent for future business development in the region.

“Lane County is open for business,” shared Chair Loveall. “At a time when Oregon communities are facing economic uncertainty, we want to send a strong message to those looking to invest in Oregon: Lane County welcomes you with open arms.”

Sierra Pacific Industries’ investment will create substantial economic benefit to Lane County. While the company is projected to save $6 million in property taxes over the 15-year SIP period, it will generate approximately $21.9 million in new property taxes and services revenue. This includes an estimated $19.9 million from new assessed property taxes and $2 million in Community Service Fee (CSF) payments. The company also plans to make a voluntary, one-time $525,000 contribution to Lane County’s rural patrol program.

"This support from Lane County is more than an economic boost—it’s a vote of confidence in Sierra Pacific’s presence in the region and our shared vision for long-term, sustainable growth,” said SPI CEO Mark Emmerson. “The investment we’re making in Eugene will ensure our ability to support family-wage jobs and grow the county economy for years to come."

Beyond economic growth, this investment also strengthens local infrastructure and emergency response capabilities in the area surrounding the project. The CSF paid by SPI will provide new revenues for 75 percent of the surrounding area’s non-education taxing authority. The Lane Fire Authority is expected to receive just over $1 million in CSF payments.

"This investment marks an important milestone for our region,” shared Lane County Community and Economic Development Manager Jason Harris. “This capital commitment by SPI represents economic growth, innovation, and an invitation for partnership in our communities.”

With about 350 people currently employed at the Eugene mill and as a leader in sustainable forestry and manufacturing, SPI has expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to invest in Lane County. Across Lane County, the company also has a sawmill in Noti, nearly 33,000 acres of sustainably managed forests, and a total employment of nearly 500 people. The company’s commitment to responsible business practices and economic development aligns with the County’s vision of a thriving business environment.

The Strategic Investment Program (SIP) was created by the Oregon Legislature in 1993 to support large capital investments by companies that create long-term economic value. The program provides temporary property tax abatement to encourage companies to invest in local operations, retain jobs and strengthen the local tax base over time. Increased tax revenues support critical public infrastructure and community services such as public safety. Urban SIP Projects, like SPI’s project, require a minimum investment of $150 million with companies continuing to pay property taxes on the first $100 million of that investment. 

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The Corvallis School District will no longer use FlashAlert for notifications after July 31, 2025.

Notifications about district closures, school cancellations, or delays are shared directly with staff, families, and students through ParentSquare. These updates are also available on our:

• District website: www.csd509j.net

• Facebook: @csd509j

• Instagram: @corvallis.schools

We encourage you to follow these channels to stay informed.

Thank you for staying connected and for your continued support of the Corvallis School District.

Salem, OR – Enterprise Information Services (EIS) has partnered with InnovateUS to launch a series of courses to train state of Oregon employees on the responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) as part of our commitment to building an informed and capable public service workforce. InnovateUS, a leading provider of no-cost training, has developed courses that are specific to public sector employees and use practical examples and exercises to train on artificial intelligence and responsible use.

“Generative AI is vastly developing, and this training aligns with the work of the State Government Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council that recognized the future of government depends first and foremost on people, supported by technology” said Terrence Woods, Oregon State Chief Information Officer. “This opportunity will provide our workforce with the knowledge and skills to use generative AI in their work responsibly, securely, and effectively.”

The training is a step towards enabling agencies to educate their teams, so they can appropriately utilize the modern capabilities of GenAI, while also mitigating its potential issues. It supports the goal of being more effective stewards of public resources.

Generative AI technology offers several benefits to both employees and the public by enhancing government efficiency, improving customer service, streamlining processes, and empowering the workforce with the skills and tools necessary to improve the lives of Oregonians.

Media Contact: Isabel Anderson

Telephone: (206)640-5388

Isabel.anderson@redcross.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Red Cross issues advice to stay safe during extreme heat

Heat can be dangerous for anyone. Stay hydrated, stay cool and stay connected.

[July 15th, 2025] — We’re experiencing some of the hottest temperatures of the year across Oregon and SW Washington. The American Red Cross urges everyone to take three critical actions to stay safe:

1. Stay hydrated by drinking a cup of water every 20 minutes, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks.
2. Stay cool by spending time in air-conditioned places. If your home is too hot, go to a mall, library or cooling center.
3. Stay connected by checking on others and asking for help if you need it. Make sure pets have access to fresh water and shade.

“Knowing what to do to protect yourself and loved ones from extreme heat can save lives,” said Priscilla Fuentes, Chief Executive Officer of the Cascades Region. “We’re asking everyone to check on friends and neighbors, especially older adults, people with chronic conditions, outdoor workers and athletes. You could make all the difference by sending a text, making a call or knocking on their door.”

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO Remind everyone to drink water, even if they don’t feel thirsty. Aim for a cup of water every hour and encourage people to avoid sugary, caffeinated or alcoholic drinks. Babies should be breast-fed or bottle-fed often. Fewer wet diapers or darker urine can be signs of dehydration.

Encourage athletes and outdoor workers to take breaks in the shade. They should drink a cup of water — or a sports drink — every 20 minutes.  

Help those without air conditioning find a safe place to go like a mall, library or cooling center. They can also take cool showers or baths to help cool off. Remind people to wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothes in light colors.

Never leave a child or pet alone inside a parked car, and make sure pets have access to fresh water and shade.

HEAT ILLNESS SIGNS Anyone can become ill during extreme heat if their body can’t cool down properly. It’s critical to act fast as some types of heat illness can be deadly.

Heat cramps are signaled by heavy sweating and muscle pain. Take action by stopping what you’re doing, resting in a cool place and drinking a cup of water — or a sports drink — every 20 minutes. If you feel sick to your stomach, pause drinking. Get medical help if cramps last more than two hours or you have heart problems.

Heat exhaustion is signaled by heavy sweating, weakness, cool and clammy skin, muscle cramps, dizziness, fainting, nausea or vomiting. Take action by stopping what you’re doing, resting in a cool place and drinking a cup of water — or a sports drink — every 20 minutes. Loosen your clothes and place a cool wet cloth on your body. Get medical help if you’re vomiting, don’t feel better in an hour, or if you have heart or kidney problems.

Heat stroke is a deadly condition signaled by high body temperature, rapid heartbeat, confusion, headache, dizziness, fainting, nausea or vomiting. Call 911. Move to a cooler place, remove extra clothing and use a wet cloth or a cool bath to cool down. If possible, sip a sports drink or water. 

IF THE POWER GOES OUT When a heat wave and a power outage happen at the same time, it can be even more dangerous. Stay in air conditioning either at home or at a mall, library or cooling center. Keep an ice-filled cooler stocked with food, water and medicine, so that they don’t spoil. More information is available here.

Finally, download the free Red Cross First Aid app so you’ll know what to do if emergency help is delayed and the free Emergency app for real-time weather alerts and heat safety information. Content is available in English and Spanish with an easy-to-find language selector. Find both apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.

About the American Red Cross: 

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media. 

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PORTLAND, Ore.—A West Linn, Oregon man has been charged with illegally possessing machine guns, unregistered short-barreled rifles, and firearm silencers.

Lucas Christopher Perillo, 41, has been charged by criminal complaint with unlawful possession of a machinegun and unlawful possession of an unregistered short-barreled rifle or silencer.

According to court documents, on June 17, 2025, FBI agents executed federal search warrants on Perillo, his residence, and his vehicle. Agents located and seized 36 firearms, including three firearms converted with machine gun switches and 13 unregistered short-barreled rifles, firearm silencers, and other firearm parts. 

Machine gun conversion devices, sometimes referred to as switches, are small attachments used to convert firearms from semi-automatic to fully-automatic.

On July 11, 2025, Perillo was arrested in West Linn. He made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge and was ordered detained pending further court proceedings.

This case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the Oregon State Police. It is being prosecuted by Parakram Singh, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

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

# # #

JOINT RELEASE

Extreme Heat Advisory: Health and Safety Guidance from State Agencies 

As temperatures surge across Oregon,  the National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Watch, Heat Advisories and Extreme Heat Warnings for parts of Oregon, Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), and the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) are urging all residents to take precautions against the dangerous heat affecting the region. Heat of this intensity poses serious health risks for everyone—particularly older adults, children, people with disabilities, outdoor workers, pregnant people, and those without air conditioning.

Erin McMahon, Director of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management, emphasized that one of the most serious risks during extreme heat is how easily people underestimate its effects over time. “It’s not just about a single hot day,” she said. “The real danger comes from the ongoing impact of several days of high temperatures without a break, which can have deadly consequences.” She noted that during the July 4–7 heatwave last summer, 11 people in Oregon lost their lives—making it one of the most lethal weather events in the state’s history. “Heat is deadly,” she warned, “and we must respond to it with the seriousness it demands.”

Recognize and Respond to Heat Illness

Heat-related illnesses can progress rapidly and impair judgment. Understanding the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke is critical: 

Learn more at: bit.ly/45XeNlS 

Stay Cool and Safe 

• To locate cooling resources near you, call 211 or visit 211info.org/summer-and-heat-related-resources/. 
  • 211info’s core operating hours are Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m., but hours may be extended during emergency incidents, including extreme heat.
• If you need help getting to a cooling location, call 211 to discuss transportation options.
• Check on family, neighbors, and those living alone. 
• Hydrate consistently—don’t wait until you feel thirsty and limit sugary and alcoholic drinks. 
• Dress in loose, light-colored, breathable clothing. 
• Take lots of cold showers or seek out air-conditioned buildings or cooling shelters during the hottest part of the day. 
• Keep windows closed during the day and open at night (unless wildfire smoke is present). 
• Never leave pets or children in vehicles. 
• Limit physical activity—even athletes should limit their activity during extreme heat. 

For medical emergencies or concerns about someone at risk, call the Police Non-Emergency number in your area for a welfare check—or 911 if immediate care is needed. Your actions can save lives. Stay cool, stay safe and stay connected.

Remember the Increased Fire Danger and Energy Conservation 

High temperatures heighten the risk of wildfires: 

• Respect burn bans 
• Use fireworks cautiously 
• Report unsafe conditions 

Oregonians are also urged to conserve energy: 

• Avoid running major appliances during peak demand hours (morning and evening) 
• Help prevent power outages and grid strain 

Report excessive pricing of essential goods or lodging to the Oregon Department of Justice’s Consumer Protection Services: doj.state.or.us/consumer-protection 

Stay Informed 

• Sign up for emergency alerts at ORAlert.gov 
• Follow National Weather Service (NWS) updates: Heat Risk Page. 

Heat Alerts Made Simple

• East of Blue Ridge: Alerts kick in at slightly higher temperatures

• West of Blue Ridge: Thresholds are a bit lower due to cooler climate conditions

En Español

Aviso de calor extremo: Orientación sobre salud y seguridad de las agencias estatales 

Mientras suben las temperaturas en Oregon, el Servicio Nacional de Meteorología (National Weather Service – en inglés) ha emitido una Alerta de calor extremo (en inglés), Avisos de calor (en inglés), y Advertencias de calor extremo (en inglés) para partes de Oregon. El Departamento de Servicios Humanos de Oregon (Oregon Department of Human Services, ODHS por sus siglas en inglés), y el Departamento de Manejo de Emergencias de Oregon (Oregon Department of Emergency Management, OEM) piden a todas las personas que viven en el área que se cuiden por el calor fuerte que hay en la región. El calor de esta intensidad es un riesgo grave para la salud de todos – especialmente los adultos mayores, los niños, las personas con discapacidades, las personas que trabajan al aire libre, las personas embarazadas y las personas que no tienen aire acondicionado.  

Erin McMahon, directora del Departamento de Manejo de Emergencias de Oregon, indicó que uno de los riesgos más graves durante el calor extremo es lo fácil que es subestimar sus efectos acumulativos. “No se trata solo de un día caluroso,” dijo. “El verdadero peligro proviene del impacto continuo de varios días de altas temperaturas sin alivio, lo cual puede tener consecuencias mortales.” Señaló que durante la ola de calor del 4 al 7 de julio del verano pasado, 11 personas en Oregón perdieron la vida, convirtiéndola en uno de los eventos meteorológicos más letales en la historia del estado. “El calor es mortal,” advirtió, “y debemos responder con la seriedad que exige.”

Aprenda a reconocer y actuar a las enfermedades por calor 

Las enfermedades causadas por el calor pueden avanzar rápido y afectar el juicio de las personas. Comprender los síntomas del agotamiento de calor y el golpe de calor es muy importante:  

Obtenga más información (en inglés): bit.ly/45XeNlS  

Manténgase fresco y seguro 

• Para encontrar recursos de enfriamiento cerca de usted, llame al 211 o visite 211info.org/summer-and-heat-related-resources/.  
• El horario principal de atención de 211info es de lunes a viernes de 8:00 a.m. a 6:00 p.m., pero el horario puede extenderse durante los incidentes de emergencia incluyendo el calor extremo. 
• Si necesita ayuda para llegar a un centro de enfriamiento, llame al 211 para platicar sobre las opciones de transporte. 
• Asegúrese de que sus familiares, vecinos, y las personas que viven solas estén bien.  
• Hidrátese con consistencia – no espere hasta que tenga sed y limite las bebidas con azúcar y alcohólicas.  
• Vístase con ropa floja, de colores claros y fresca.  
• Tome muchas duchas frías o busque lugares con aire acondicionado o refugios frescos durante las horas del día en las que hay más calor.  
• Mantenga sus ventanas cerradas durante el día y ábralas en la noche (a menos que haya humo de incendios forestales).  
• Nunca deje a sus niños o a sus mascotas encerrados en los vehículos.  
• Limite la actividad física – hasta los atletas deben limitar su actividad durante el calor extremo.  

En caso de emergencias médicas o si le preocupa alguien en riesgo, llame al número de la policía que no es de emergencia en su área para solicitar una visita de bienestar – o llame al 911 si necesita atención inmediata. Sus acciones pueden salvar vidas. Manténgase fresco, manténgase seguro, y manténgase conectado. 

Recuerde el aumento del peligro de incendios y la conservación de energía 

Las temperaturas altas aumentan el riesgo de incendios forestales:  

• Respete las prohibiciones de quemas  
• Use los fuegos artificiales con cuidado 
• Reporte las condiciones que no son seguras 

A las personas de Oregon también se les pide que conserven la energía:  

• Evite usar los electrodomésticos grandes durante las horas de mayor demanda (en la mañana y en la noche)  
• Ayude a prevenir los cortes de luz y la sobrecarga de la red eléctrica  

Reporte si ve precios excesivos de bienes esenciales y alojamiento a los Servicios de Protección al Consumidor del Departamento de Justicia de Oregon: doj.state.or.us/consumer-protection (en inglés)

Manténgase informado  

• Inscríbase para recibir alertas de emergencia en ORAlert.gov  
• Siga a las actualizaciones del Servicio Nacional de Meteorología (National Weather Service, NWS por sus siglas en inglés): Página sobre Riesgos de Calor.  

Entendiendo las Alertas de Calor  

• Al este de Blue Ridge: Las alertas comienzan a activarse a temperaturas un poco más altas 
• Al oeste de Blue Ridge: Los límites son un poco más bajos debido a las condiciones de clima más frescas 

On July 10, 2025, at approximately 2:23pm, Albany Fire Department responded to a report of a large field fire reportedly 20 feet away from nearby residences and businesses. Albany Police Department responded to the fire for traffic control, evacuation efforts, and investigation. Upon arrival, several people were trying to fight the fire with garden hoses, and the farmer arrived promptly with their water truck to assist. Despite windy conditions, Albany firefighters were able to quickly extinguish the fire.

After further investigation Albany Police determined the fire resulted from a criminal act. The following day, July 11, 2025, Albany Police detained a 13-year-old male juvenile and lodged him at the Linn Benton Juvenile Detention Center on charges of Arson in the 1^st degree and 2^nd degree.

According to the farmer, an estimated 5 acres were damaged in the fire. We want to thank the Albany Fire Department and mutual aid partners for their quick response to this incident.

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has finalized its Annual Operations Plans (AOP). The plans describe projects planned for state forests in the 2026 fiscal year that began July 1 and runs through June 30, 2026.  These include:

• Planned timber sales for each district.
• Recreation projects, such as the installation of a bridge.
• Other types of forest projects, such as stream enhancement or restoration projects.

ODF received 516 written comments during the public comment period that was open from April 18 to June 3.

“Once again, we received many passionate and constructive comments from the public, representing diverse perspectives and demonstrating a high level of interest and engagement in state forests,” said Nick Palazzotto, ODF’s State Forests Division Deputy Chief.  “The comments help us in the challenging work of trying to balance ODF’s legal obligation to manage state forests for timber production to meet economic goals as well as social and environmental outcomes—a concept referred to as Greatest Permanent Value.”

State forests provide economic, social and environmental benefits, including:

• Outdoor recreation
• Forest education
• Clean water
• Critical fish and wildlife habitats
• Sustainable harvest volumes that produce jobs and revenue that funds vital services in rural counties

The majority of timber sales are on Board of Forestry lands, where about two thirds of the resulting revenue is split with the counties. In turn, the counties share those revenues with special districts that support local schools or provide other essential community services. ODF retains one third of the revenue to fund management of state forests. A small portion of the timber sales are located on Common School Forest Lands and generate revenue for the state’s Common School Fund.

Some comments resulted in edits to specific timber sales while others are addressed in a high-level summary of the comments received highlighting the major themes, topics, and agency responses. 

“We read and consider every comment,” said Palazzotto. “However, we do not respond individually to each one. Sale-specific comments are considered by the field and technical specialists and changes are documented in the plans. We also develop a summary with broad categories that capture the high- level comments and provides our responses to the public commentary.”

The comment summary document has the following sections: 

• Recreation
• Timber Harvest
• Climate Change and Fire Mitigation
• Young Stand Management
• Aquatic, Water Quality, Wildlife
• Roads and Slopes
• Process and Document Improvement
• Specific Sales
• Out of Scope

“Because we manage state forests for the Greatest Permanent Value, we have to consider how our decisions impact all Oregonians, not just a single commenter,” said Palazzotto. “So even though we made changes to some sales, not everyone will be satisfied with those changes. We recognize that and seek to be as transparent as possible in our decisions. 

We know Oregonians care about their forests as we received more than 500 comments this year. Given the high interest in how state forests are managed, ODF will continue to work on improving communications with landowners, neighbors and concerned citizens. Our goal is to raise awareness of our AOP process and how people can connect with us to have their concerns heard.”

The Fiscal Year 2026 Annual Operations Plan documents are available for ODF’s Astoria, Forest Grove, Klamath-Lake, North Cascade, Tillamook, West Oregon and Western Lane districts. These are located on the same webpage as the summary of comments and agency response document.

GRANTS PASS, Ore. – The steady thrum of rotor blades filled the air as Staff Sgt. James Grow raised his right hand 1,500 feet above southern Oregon, reenlisting for three more years of service while aboard a CH-47 Chinook helicopter during what may have been the most memorable oath ceremony of his military career.

Grow was one of dozens of Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers who participated in MEDEVAC 101 training on Sunday, July 13, at the Grants Pass Armory. This event combined critical medical evacuation instruction with morale-boosting familiarization flights that left lasting impressions on participants.

"It's important, especially in such a large organization, to see what other parts of the organization do, and how the state as a whole utilizes us," said Warrant Officer 1 David Weber, a pilot with Company G, 1st Battalion, 189th Aviation Regiment, who helped conduct the training alongside his Salem-based unit.

The comprehensive training brought together Soldiers from Delta Company and Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment, along with personnel from Headquarters and Headquarters Company for hands-on instruction in medical evacuation procedures. Using an HH-60 Black Hawk helicopter from Company G, 1st Battalion, 189th Aviation Regiment, aviation crew members demonstrated proper litter loading techniques and the intricacies of both cold and hot loading procedures, critical skills that could mean the difference between life and death in emergency situations.

"We do it all the time on the radio and do practical exercises as just infantry, but actually doing it with the helicopter here and doing the hot loading, cold loading, seeing their capabilities is huge to us as infantrymen," said 1st Lt. Ian Namu, who coordinated the training event.

The training extended beyond medical evacuation to showcase the broader mission capabilities of Oregon's aviation assets. Weber's crew covered their diverse mission set, including search and rescue operations and wildland firefighting support roles that directly serve Oregon communities during natural disasters and emergencies.

For many Soldiers, the highlight came during familiarization flights aboard the CH-47 Chinook from Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 168th Aviation Regiment, based in Pendleton. Before the morale flights began, the Chinook crew conducted preflight briefings for all participants. When Namu asked how many had never flown in a Chinook or worked with helicopters, 20 to 30 hands shot up, representing a significant learning opportunity for the ground forces.

"It's an experience that these guys will take and be like, 'Hey, I did something cool this drill weekend,'" Namu said. "I think it shows some form of appreciation for the things that they do, the hard work that these ground pounders do."

The aerial portion of training proved so memorable that two Soldiers chose to conduct their reenlistment ceremonies while airborne, in addition to Grow's three-year commitment, Sgt. Cruz Lopez also reenlisted during the flight, both taking their oaths while soaring over the Oregon landscape.

The event also included members of the Recruit Sustaining Program (RSP), giving future Soldiers who have enlisted but not yet completed basic training and Advanced Individual Training a preview of the opportunities awaiting them in the Oregon National Guard.

Oregon National Guard members serve part-time, typically one weekend a month and two weeks a year, while maintaining civilian careers. They stand ready to respond to state emergencies such as wildfires and floods, while also training to defend the nation when called to federal service. Guard members live and work in the same communities they serve, creating a unique connection between military service and local communities.

"Big thing, I think morale and retention is the biggest thing, hopefully that helps our numbers," Namu said, reflecting on the training's broader impact beyond just technical skills.

The MEDEVAC 101 training exemplified the Oregon National Guard's commitment to preparing Soldiers for diverse missions while fostering the esprit de corps that keeps citizen-Soldiers engaged and ready to serve both state and nation when called upon.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            -30-

Released B-Roll video: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/970010/oregon-guard-soldiers-take-flight-during-medevac-training-b-roll

Released Photos: 

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Sgt. 1st Class Marcus Hickman, a crew chief with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 168th Aviation Regiment, gives a preflight safety briefing to Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers during MEDEVAC 101 training at the Grants Pass Armory in Grants Pass, Oregon, July 13, 2025. The training event brought together Soldiers from Delta Company and Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment, for hands-on medical evacuation instruction and familiarization flights. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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Recruit Sustaining Program (RSP) personnel walk up the ramp of a CH-47 Chinook helicopter for a familiarization tour of the aircraft during MEDEVAC 101 training at Grants Pass Airport in Grants Pass, Oregon, July 13, 2025. RSP members, who have enlisted in the Oregon Army National Guard but have not yet completed basic training, received instruction on Army rotary-wing operations and airframes as part of the comprehensive training event. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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1st Lt. Ian Namu administers the oath of reenlistment to Sgt. Cruz Lopez aboard a CH-47 Chinook helicopter with an American flag as the backdrop during MEDEVAC 101 training in Grants Pass, Oregon, July 13, 2025. Lopez reenlisted for three years during the familiarization flight over Medford and Ashland, making for a memorable ceremony at 1,500 feet above southern Oregon. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers hot load onto a CH-47 Chinook helicopter at Grants Pass Airport before the second familiarization flight during MEDEVAC 101 training on July 13, 2025. The Chinook from Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 168th Aviation Regiment, conducted two morale flights over Medford and Ashland, transporting Soldiers as part of a comprehensive training event held at the Grants Pass Armory. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

Yakima, Wash. – Thirteen people are charged following the return of 12 indictments alleging more than a dozen charges against these defendants for trafficking fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana on the Yakama Nation Reservation. 

The arrests follow a long-term joint federal, local, and tribal investigation that began in late 2024, concluding in June 2025, led by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Bureau of Indian Affairs. The investigation targeted violent individuals and armed drug traffickers on the Yakama Nation and in the Yakima Valley with the goal to disrupt drug distributors operation both on and off the reservation. 

“In late 2024, escalating drug-related activity—including opioid trafficking, overdose fatalities, and an alarming number of homicides—prompted the DEA to select the Yakama Nation Indian Reservation for a 120-day drug initiative under DEA Operation Overdrive,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “The fentanyl powder and pills that we took off the streets could have yielded about 250-thousand lethal doses, enough to kill everyone living in Yakima County.  Enough to kill every member of the Yakama Nation more than eight times over. “ 

Operation Overdrive is a national, multi-phased program, which targets hot spots where drugs and violent crime are prevalent. The DEA utilizes its full range of data, intelligence, operational resources, and partnerships to combat drug-related violent crime and overdose deaths. The goals of Operation Overdrive are to decrease overdose rates in target areas, decrease gun violence rates, increase community engagement, and remove the drug networks that are causing harm to our communities.

“Fentanyl continues to be one of the most dangerous substances threatening our communities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Stephanie Van Marter. “Thanks to the hard work and tireless dedication of our tribal, state and federal law enforcement partners, working side by side with members of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Yakima, offenders have been removed from our communities and families are safer today.”

To date, agents have seized 7,100 pounds of marijuana, 336 pounds of methamphetamine, nearly 25 pounds of cocaine, 7 pounds of fentanyl power, 4,704 fentanyl laced pills, $22,512 in drug proceeds, and 12 firearms. 

According to unsealed charging documents, the following individuals have been charged in connection with the investigation. The United States anticipates bringing additional charges against other individuals identified during this investigation. 

Angel Navarro Aleman, age 55, charged with Distribution of 50 Grams and More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine (three counts) 

Jose Francisco Aguirre, age 56, pleaded guilty to Distribution of 50 Grams and More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine; sentencing in July 2025. 

Jose Caudillo-Ascencio, age 23 charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute a Mixture or Substance Containing Cocaine; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime

Jesus Caudillo, age 31, charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm 

Johnny Thomas Axtell, age 54, charged with Distribution of 5 Grams or More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine; Distribution of Fentanyl

Israel Nicolas Castaneda, age 37, charged with Distribution of Fentanyl; Distribution of 40 Grams or More of Fentanyl

Samantha Rasberry-Besa, age 31, charged with Distribution of 40 Grams or More of Fentanyl; Possession of Firearms in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime

Lonzell Hawk Lucei, age 37, charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm

Hollis Marion Woodward, age 70, pleaded guilty to Felon in Possession of a Firearm, sentencing in September 2025. 

Miguel Angel Alvarado-Munoz, age 45, charged with Alien in United States After Deportation

Ira Charles Pete, age 39, charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm 

Edgar Jovnni Nunez Bocanegra, age 29, charged with Drug User in Possession of a Firearm; Possession with Intent to Distribute 5 Grams or More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine; Possession of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime

Fernando Gonzalez, age 38, charged with Possession with the Intent to Distribute 400 Grams or More of Fentanyl, Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm 

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Indian Affairs conducted the investigation along with Homeland Security Investigations, FBI, ATF, Yakima Police Department, Wapato Police Department, Yakama Nation Tribal Police Department, and the Yakima County Sheriff’s Office. 

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Eugene, OR.  Eugene Springfield Fire responded to a series of suspicious brush fires early Monday morning. Between the hours of midnight and 3AM, ESF responded to three separate brush fires along a mile section of the East Bank Bike Path in Eugene.

The first fire was reported on Goodpasture Island Road near the East Bank Bike Path just before 1AM. The fire was quickly handled by Brush 9 and Engine 9 from the Valley River Station.  

The second fire was reported by multiple callers just after 2AM, stating there was a large brush fire west of Marist High School.  The fire was along the bike path and Brush 9 was the only unit able to access the fire.  The crew located a 100’ x 50’ section of the Willamette River bank burning in dense vegetation.   While responding to the 2nd fire, Battalion 1 located an additional 30’ x 50’ fire a quarter mile to the north of the Marist incident along the path.  The total response to the incident included 3 Engines, two type 6 brush trucks, a Battalion Chief, a Utility ATV, two Deputy Fire Marshall’s, and Eugene Police.

After the fires were brought under control,  crews performed extensive mop up.  The cause of the fires is suspicious and under investigation by the Fire Marshall’s Office.

At approximately 6:30pm Sunday night, Lebanon Fire District crews were dispatched to a report of a vehicle into power lines with a pole down. On arrival, BC31 assumed command and found a small pickup had struck both a utility pole and a fire hydrant, coming to rest with live power lines draped over the vehicle.

The lone occupant was alert and remained in the vehicle for safety while waiting for Pacific Power to secure the lines. E31 and Lebanon PD established traffic control to maintain scene safety.

Once power was cut, the patient was taken to Lebanon Community Hospital. The cause of the crash is under investigation.  E31 and BC31 remained on scene to assist with extended traffic control while Pacific Power conducted repairs.  Repairs could take up to 8-10 hours to complete. 

At 09:08 on Sunday morning crews from Central Douglas Fire and Rescue and Lookingglass Rural Fire District were dispatched to the report of a structure fire on Circle Drive in the Green district.  All of the residents of the home were able to safely exit prior to our arrival.  The house was heavily involved in flames and required a second alarm response to fully extinguish.

Thanks to the efficient response of our firefighters, the fire was contained to the single house and did not spread any further. There was significant damage to the structure and the amount of property loss is significant.  No injuries were reported by the residents or the firefighters working at the scene.

CDF&R and Lookingglass Rural Fire District responded to this incident with 7 fire engines, an air unit, and a command unit with a total of 22 personnel. The fire is believed to have been caused by an unattended candle in a bedroom.  Crews were assisted by Umpqua Valley Ambulance, Avista and PP&L.

# # #

Due to successful firefighting efforts the Level 1 evacuation notice for JAC-325B and JAC-326 has been canceled. These zones are located south of Highway 140.
 
Know Your Zone https://protect.genasys.com/
Jackson County Sheriff's Office has Canceled the Level 1 evacuation notice for the area of: JAC-325B, JAC-326
 
Jackson County Sheriff's Office ha Cancelado la alerta de Nivel 1 de Evacuación para: JAC-325B, JAC-326

SALEM, Ore. – On Saturday evening, the Oregon State Fire Marshal mobilized their Blue Incident Management Team and three structural task forces to the Highland Fire in Crook County south of Prineville. One task force was sent earlier on Saturday through Immediate Response.

The wind-driven Highland Fire sparked on Saturday afternoon, and levels 1, 2, and 3 evacuations are in place for those living near the fire.

The Immediate Response task force arrived Saturday evening, and the incident management team and two additional task forces will arrive on Sunday morning before being briefed to begin work protecting structures. 

“Fire conditions are affecting much of the state with little relief in the forecast,” said State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple. “We are asking all Oregonians to be aware of the conditions and do everything they can to prevent sparking a wildfire.”

A conflagration was invoked by Governor Kotek on Saturday evening, allowing the state fire marshal to mobilize structural protection resources.

Follow the Crook County Sheriff’s Office for the latest evacuation information. See the evacuation map here.

This is the fifth time the Emergency Conflagration Act has been invoked in 2025.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                 

UPDATE: July 12, 2025

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

Fourth suspect in custody

A fourth suspect has been taken into custody as part of the ongoing investigation into an incident of gunfire that erupted the evening of June 30 in the parking lot of a south Salem fast food eatery.

A 17-year-old boy was taken into custody without incident on July 11 at approximately 10:00 p.m. at an apartment in the 5900 block of Park CT SE. A loaded handgun was also seized. The boy was transported and lodged at the Marion County Juvenile Detention Center on the following charges:

• Attempted assault, first degree
• Unlawful use of a weapon
• Reckless endangering
• Unlawful possession of a firearm

The incident remains an ongoing investigation, and all media inquiries concerning the case must be directed to the Marion County District Attorney’s Office.

# # #

Originally published July 1, 2025

Three arrested after shots fired in south Salem

Salem, Ore. — Salem Police arrested two adults and one juvenile on the evening of June 30 related to a disturbance ending in shots being fired in the parking lot of McDonald’s 5090 Commercial St SE.

At approximately 10:24 p.m. officers were dispatched to the call of a disturbance. As officers were arriving, vehicles connected to the incident were attempting to flee the scene. Officers stopped one vehicle, contacted three occupants, and ultimately seized a 9mm handgun. Multiple spent shell casings located at the scene were collected as evidence.

Arrested were Rubi Zambrano, 20, Dakoda Clark-Adkins, 18, and a 15-year-old male, all from Salem, on various charges related to the incident. Zambrano and Clark-Adkins were lodged at the Marion County Correctional Facility and will be arraigned today at 2:30pm at the Marion County Court Annex 4000 Aumsville Hwy SE. The juvenile was released to a parent.

While no injuries to persons or significant damage to property was immediately reported, people in the area may have witnessed the incident or have damage to property. Anyone with information is asked to call 503-588-6123 option 1 to make a report.

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

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

Sahara, age 16, is a child who went missing from Oregon City on July 6. She was found on July 11.

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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Eugene, OR.  Eugene Springfield Fire responded to a house fire in Eugene’s South hills Saturday morning.  Firefighters were called to a fire in the vicinity of 43rd and Fox Hollow just after 9 AM on July 12th.  Engine 15 from 33rd and Donald arrived about 5 minutes after dispatch to find a home on fire in the 4100 block of Alder St.  E15 reported heavy fire on the back exterior of the home that had extended to the attic and 2nd floor living room.  E15 quickly attacked the exterior fire while additional crews made entry to search for victims and extinguish the interior fire. 

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.” 

                                                                   # # #

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.

###

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.