On Saturday, June 28, Sweet Home Fire and Ambulance responded to multiple calls beginning an around 5:00 pm, to include 2 back to back structure fires. The first fire was initially called in by a passing motorist who could see smoke near a shop at 28160 Highway 20. The first responding unit was initially investigating smoke in the area when it was discovered that this was a structure fire in the bay of an unoccupied shop. A first alarm was dispatched and 4 apparatus responded with 10 firefighters to fight the blaze. The structure is a large shop with a mechanics bay that had an interior fire burning out into the eaves. After ensuring that no one was inside, firefighters took advantage of the building's construction type and prevented the fire from spreading into the rest of the shop by using a technique that prevents oxygen from getting to the fire and cooling the room of the fire rapidly. The fire was contained to the room of origin but unfortunately everything was lost or severely damaged in that bay. The fire is believed to have started from an electrical issue with an extension cord underneath some tires and rims. While restoring equipment on scene of the fire on Highway 20, another fire was dispatched near 5191 Redwood Street and was reported as a train trestle bridge over Wiley Creek on fire. Crews quickly responded across town and made access to the bridge, rapidly extinguishing the fire using water and foam. A civilian who worked near the area saw the smoke and responded with a fire extiguisher, diminishing some of the flames prior to firefighters arrival. The railroad ties and some of the strutural members were flame damaged but remained structurally intact and will be inspected by the railroad company to ensure safety. The fire appears to have been started beneath the bridge near a structural member from a pile of trash and remains under investigation. ODF was quick to respond to both of these fires and readily supported SHFAD with engines, water and personnel. We would like to thank them and our law enforcement partners, SHPD and LCSO, for responding on both of these fires during a very busy evening. In addition to the fires, SHFAD continued to respond to medical emergencies in our district, and were only able to do so with the help from off duty personnel.

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Bonafacio Merino-Apolinar, died the morning of June 29, 2025. Merino-Apolinar was incarcerated at Two Rivers Correctional Institution (TRCI) in Umatilla and passed away at a regional hospital. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified.

Merino-Apolinar entered DOC custody on September 19, 2007, from Marion County with no parole date. Merino-Apolinar was 54 years old. Next of kin has been notified.

DOC takes all in-custody deaths seriously. The agency is responsible for the care and custody of 12,000 individuals 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.

TRCI is a multi-custody prison in Umatilla that houses approximately 1,800 adults in custody. TRCI participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises including institution and industrial laundry, mattress manufacturing, and sewing. Other institution work programs include reparation and cleaning of irrigation ditches, maintenance of local baseball fields, and work with local cities and the Hermiston School District. The facility provides a range of correctional programs and services including education, religious services, and behavioral health services. TRCI opened in 2000.

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Albany, OR – May 17, 2025 – The East Albany Lions Club is proud to present the annual Lumberjack Breakfast, a beloved community tradition returning to Timber Linn Park this summer. The event runs for four consecutive mornings, Thursday, July 3 through Sunday, July 6, 2025, with breakfast served daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM.

This family-friendly event brings the community together for hearty, lumberjack-style breakfasts in a festive outdoor setting. Guests can enjoy generous portions of eggs, pancakes, sausage, and other favorites, along with bottomless coffee and beverages to fuel the day.

Admission is $12 for adults and $5 for children, making it an affordable outing for families, friends, and visitors looking to enjoy one of Albany’s most flavorful summer traditions.

Proceeds from the Lumberjack Breakfast support the local service projects of the East Albany Lions Club, including programs that benefit the Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation (OLSHF). These efforts help provide vision and hearing services to individuals and families across the state who might otherwise go without. Learn more about the Foundation’s impact at www.olshf.org.

Event Details:

• Event: 2025 Lumberjack Breakfast

• Dates: Thursday, July 3 – Sunday, July 6, 2025

• Time: 6:00 AM – 11:00 AM daily

• Location: Timber Linn Park, Albany, OR

• Admission: $12 Adults | $5 Kids

• Proceeds Benefit: Oregon Lions Sight & Hearing Foundation – olshf.org

• More Info: Roger Wylie – rogerb.wylie@gmail.com

All are welcome to attend. Come hungry, bring your friends, and enjoy breakfast with purpose.

In May of 2025 the Sheriff’s Office began an investigation involving an adult male communicating with a minor on-line.  The resulting investigation revealed, Frank Dylan Hendricks, a 39-year-old male, engaged in illicit sexual conduct with the minor child on-line.

On June 25, 2025, the Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Cottage Grove Police Department, served a search warrant at the 2300 Block of East Main Street in Cottage Grove.

Frank Hendricks was contacted and arrested for:

• Using a Child in Display of Sexually Explicit Conduct (ORS: 163.670)
• Online Sexual Corruption of a Child in the second degree (ORS 163.432)
• Luring a Child (ORS 167.057)
• Encouraging Child Sexual Abuse in the second degree (ORS 163.686)

Hendricks was lodged at the Lane County Jail.  The investigation is ongoing.  There are no further details available at this time.  Thank you to the Cottage Grove Police Department, who is a member of the Lane County Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force.

This arrest is part of an ongoing effort by local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to combat child exploitation and protect vulnerable members of our community. Thanks to the many agencies who participate in the Lane County ICAC Task Force and collaborate to make this work possible.

If anyone has information regarding this case or additional victims, please contact the Lane County Sheriff’s Office at 541-682-4141 and reference case #25-2889.

MARION COUNTY, Ore. (June 27, 2025) – At approximately 12:21 a.m. on June 27, 2025, Oregon State Police responded to a reported road rage incident on Interstate 5 southbound, between mileposts 265 and 263, in Marion County.

The incident involved a 2010 black Nissan Maxima and a sport utility vehicle resembling a 2008–2011 Dodge Journey, lighter in color, possibly gold or silver. Both vehicles were reportedly traveling in the far left and middle lanes at various points during the altercation.

During the altercation, the right-front passenger in the Dodge Journey discharged a firearm at the Nissan Maxima, striking the vehicle’s rear driver-side quarter panel multiple times. The shooter was reportedly wearing a ski mask. No injuries were reported.
 

The Dodge Journey was last seen exiting I-5 south at milepost 263 in an unknown direction.

There is not believed to be an ongoing threat to the public.  

OSP is asking for the public’s assistance in gathering information related to this case. If you have any information, please contact Detective Kelly Lorence through the Northern Command Center dispatch at 800-442-0776 or OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP25-317802.

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About the Oregon State Police
The Oregon State Police (OSP) is a multi-disciplined organization that safeguards Oregon’s people, wildlife, and natural resources. OSP enforces traffic laws, investigates crimes, performs postmortem examinations and forensic analyses, conducts background checks, and manages law enforcement data. The agency also regulates gaming and enforces laws related to fish, wildlife, and natural resources. OSP includes more than 1,400 employees—troopers, investigators, and professional staff—delivering comprehensive public safety services to Oregon and supporting law enforcement partners statewide.

The Oregon State Marine Board met for its quarterly hybrid meeting at the Roseburg Library on June 26 and voted to approve twenty Cycle One boating facility and education and outreach grant applications and to defer five others for future funding opportunities.

This is the first of three boating facility and education and outreach grant opportunities for the 2025-2027 biennium. Cycle One is the largest funding opportunity, awarding approximately 60 percent of available grant funding. This allows for larger, more complex projects to be completed while also accounting for weather or unforeseen circumstances. The Marine Board is investing $2.1 million in motorized and nonmotorized boater funds, for over $6.2 million in improvements for Oregon’s recreational boaters.

The following grant projects were approved:

• Douglas County: Cooper Creek East and West dock replacement and parking lot resurfacing. The Board approved $161,736.25 in Boating Facility Grant funds, combined with $692,858.75 applicant match for a total project cost of $854,595.
• Willamette Riverkeeper: Discover Your Willamette River Paddling Recreation Program (upper, middle and lower Willamette River). The Board approved $73,905 in Waterway Access Grant funds, combined with $61,518.44 in applicant match for a total project cost of $135,423.44.
• Adventures Without Limits: Excursions using adaptive equipment for those with physical limitations and youth in underserved communities throughout Oregon. The Board approved $77,500 in Waterway Access Grant funds, combined with $200,627.95 in applicant match for a total project cost of $278,127.95.
• METRO: M. James Gleason to repair the boarding docks and secure utilities under the short-term tie-up dock. The Board approved $210,000 Boating Facility Grant funds, combined with $70,000 in applicant match for a total project cost of $280,000.
• City of Depoe Bay: Repair and resurface the boat trailer parking area. The Board approved $111,621 in Boating Facility Grant funds, combined with $37,044.80 in applicant match for a total project cost of $148,665.80.
• Port of Astoria: East Mooring Basin boarding dock replacement. The Board approved $78,080.50 in Boating Facility Grant funds, combined with $341,67.33 in applicant match for a total project cost of $419,747.83.
• US Forest Service (Deschutes National Forest): Purchase and install new, permanent boarding docks at Blue Bay, South Shore, Link Creek and Suttle Lake Day Use boat ramps for a total of ten replacement dock sections. The Board approved $195,500 in Boating Facility Grant funds, combined with $203,000 in applicant match for a total project cost of $398,500.00.
• Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership: Big Canoe Explorer Project. Estimate 10 trips, led by LCEP staff, lasting 3-4 hours, including educational components on land and water. The Board approved $32,003.15 in Waterway Access Grant funds, combined with $14,211.32 of applicant match for a total project cost of $46,214.47.
• City of Maupin: Maupin City Park for design and permitting of future boat ramp replacement. The Board approved $52,000 in Waterway Access Grant funds, combined with $17,334.00 of applicant match for a total project cost of $69,334.
• Oregon Department of Wildlife: Two access sites on the Klamath River: Moonshine Falls and Pioneer Park West for accessible parking. For Moonshine Falls, the Board approved $25,000 in Waterway Access Grant funds, combined with $50,350 of applicant match for a total project cost is $75,350. For Pioneer Park West, the Board approved $25,000 in Boating Facility Grant funds and $25,000 Waterway Access Grant funds to match $25,350 of applicant match for a total project cost of $75,350.00.
• Oregon Department of Wildlife: Coyote Creek nonmotorized boating access improvements including a floating kayak-canoe launch, gangway, paved parking for single cars and kayak trailer spaces, vault toilet, accessible routes, life jacket loaner station, and gate. The Board approved $260,000 Waterway Access Grant funds, combined with $270,000 in applicant match for a total project cost of $530,000.
• Willow Creek Recreation District: Turner Day Park, to replace the boarding docks. The Board approved $62,500.00 Boating Facility Grant funds, combined with $337,500 in applicant match for a total project cost of $400,000.
• Washington County Parks: Eagle Landing on the Tualatin River for permitting and construction documents for future nonmotorized access site improvements. The Board approved of $180,000 Waterway Access Grant funds, combined with $60,000 in applicant match for a total project cost of $240,000.
• Oregon Parks and Recreation Department: Luckiamute Paddle Access permitting and final design for future nonmotorized boating access site improvements. The Board approved $101,676 in Waterway Access Grant funds, combined with $35,000 in applicant match for a total project cost of $136,676.
• City of Warrenton: Hammond Marina, to replace the center lane of the boarding docks. The Board approved $180,000 in Boating Facility Grant funds, combined with $590,000 in applicant match for a total project cost of $720,000.
• Lane County: Howard Buford Recreation Area, permitting and design for a future new nonmotorized boating access site. The Board approved $114,817 in Waterway Access Grant funds, combined with $55,012 in applicant match for a total project cost of $169,829.00.
• Life Expanding Adventure Program (LEAP): Adaptive Rafting Pilot Program with immersive experiences to serve people with spinal cord injury communities and others with different physical limitations. The Board approved $44,640 in Waterway Access Grant funds, combined with $46,690 in applicant match for a total project cost of $91,330.
• Clatsop County: Carnahan Park on Cullaby Lake for an archaeological survey and wetland delineation for a future nonmotorized access site. The Board approved $48,750.00 in Waterway Access Grant funds, combined with $17,960 in applicant match for a total project cost of $66,710.
• Tillamook County: Netarts Landing to repair and resurface the boat trailer parking area. The Board approved $100,000.00 Boating Facility Grant funds, combined with $146,125 in applicant match as identified for a total project cost of $246,125.

In another agenda item, staff asked for guidance on Clean Vessel Act funding for pumpout, dump stations and floating restrooms and which options to pursue; new, replace, retrofit or modify to keep as many in service as possible with current budget constraints.

For more grant application details including images from the meeting materials, visit https://www.oregon.gov/osmb/info/Pages/Board-and-Public-Meetings.aspx. 

JCSO Case 25-3388

ASHLAND, Ore. – Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies responded to a call for a drowning last night at a swimming hole located off of Dead Indian Memorial Road outside Ashland. Next-of-kin has been notified. Our condolences go out to his family and friends. No suspicious circumstances were observed on scene, we will not be releasing decedent information out of respect for the family’s privacy in this difficult time.  

JCSO deputies responded Thursday, June 26 at 7:19 PM to the rock quarry reservoir in the 500 block of Keno Access Road outside of Ashland. The initial investigation revealed a 19-year-old man reportedly fell from a cliff at the water’s edge and disappeared into the deep water. JCSO Search and Rescue (SAR) responded to recover his remains. JCSO Medical Examiner detectives arrived to investigate. There is no additional information available at this time.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                 

DATE: June 27, 2025

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

Retail theft project results in multiple arrests

Salem, Ore. — Multiple people were arrested yesterday, June 26, during a focused enforcement project at the Willamette Town Center in Salem. Thanks to a grant from the Oregon Department of Justice, this marks the second time detectives from the Salem Police Felony Crimes Unit worked to deter organized retail theft under the grant. The funding covers the overtime costs associated with completing these crime-fighting projects, which are in addition to the team’s normal investigative workload.

The enforcement operation was in collaboration with loss prevention staff from multiple stores located at the Willamette Town Center. During the operation, officers arrested 11 people for varying degrees of theft. Several of those arrested also had existing felony warrants for prior crimes.

Arrested were,

Honee Casterson, 44, Salem
Forrest Dalton, 29, Salem
Sara Dove, 42, Salem
Melissa Holland, 30, Salem
Ashley Hooper, 26, Salem
Juan Irrazary-Rivera, 50, Salem
Stephanie Maestas-Early, 31, Salem
Hilary Mora, 38, Salem
Mikaila Oneill, 30, Salem
Mogan Ryan, 27, Salem
James Wiese, 36, Salem

The previous project, in March 2025, resulted in the arrest of four men and two women, ranging in age from 25 to 46. They were also charged with various degrees of theft.

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(Salem, OR) — The public is invited to a series of free webinars featuring conversations with disabilities advocates, experts and influencers who will share the latest information on educational and employment access, challenging perceptions about disabilities, as well as how to remove barriers.

Topics by date are:

• July 8: Striving for educational access and equity for students with disabilities
• July 15: Working toward equal access employment for people with disabilities
• July 22: Hannah and Shane Burcaw, who host YouTube channel Squirmy and Grubs on changing perceptions about disabilities
• July 29: Oregon’s journey to accessibility: removing barriers

The free weekly webinar series is being hosted by Oregon Disabilities Commission (ODC), Oregon Department of Human Services, Northwest ADA Center and Disability Rights Oregon in recognition and celebration of the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

"The Americans with Disabilities Act was a landmark victory in the fight for civil rights, laying the foundation for greater equity and independence. The anniversary of the Act is an opportunity to reflect on the progress we've made and to reaffirm our commitment to building a more inclusive and accessible Oregon for people with disabilities," said Mark King, Chair of ODC. "We are grateful to our co-hosts for their partnership in presenting the upcoming webinar series. Their collaboration helps ensure we continue to educate, engage and advocate in ways that honor the spirit and impact of the ADA."

The series will take place every Tuesday throughout July, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Pacific Time, beginning July 8. The sessions are open to the public, and registration is now available through the event web page on Zoom.

The series will be accessible to people with disabilities and will be translated into Spanish. Captioning and American Sign Language interpretation will also be provided. For questions about accessibility for the webinar series, or to request an accommodation, contact egonDisabilities.Commission@odhsoha.oregon.gov">OregonDisabilities.Commission@odhsoha.oregon.gov.

More information about the series, including presenter biographies and shareable flyers, will be shared on the Oregon Department of Human Services ADA event web page.

About the Oregon Disabilities Commission:

The Oregon Disabilities Commission is charged by state statute to advise the Oregon Department of Human Services, the Governor, the Legislative Assembly and appropriate state agency administrators on issues related to achieving the full economic, social, legal and political equity of individuals with disabilities. ODC also acts as a coordinating link between and among public and private organizations serving individuals with disabilities.

Jackson County Sheriff’s Office is conducting a Memorial Service for fallen Corrections Deputy KC Merck. The event will start Monday, June 30 at 10 AM at the Jackson County Expo. (1 Peninger Rd. Central Point, OR 97502). There will be media availability onsite for coverage of the event with limited movement in the venue. NOTE: PLEASE DO NOT PUBLISH THE LOCATION AS IT IS NOT OPEN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC. If you would like to attend in person please RSVP with PIO Aaron Lewis at (541) 531-8203 or lewisaj@jacksoncountyor.gov

This will be a full honors active duty death memorial service. A static procession of law enforcement vehicles will be parked at the expo and KC and family will be escorted by LE Motorcycles through the lineup of vehicles. We are expecting many Law Enforcement agencies from throughout the State. There will not be a procession through town as is customary for line of duty death ceremonies.

We will be livestreaming the service for those that cannot attend. Here is the link which will go live Monday Morning 15 minutes before the start of the ceremony: https://youtube.com/live/xg6pPSS5E-4?feature=share. The link can be publicized.

Please call or email with questions. Additional footage will be available for download later on Monday.

In March 2025, Sergeant Caleb Riley and Detective Tracy White began investigating Chad Edward Kastle, 49, of Scio for sexually molesting a minor child over several years in Linn and Marion County.  The minor was known to Kastle.  All crimes were prosecuted in Linn County Circuit Court.  Kastle was convicted of three counts of Rape in the First Degree, four counts of Sexual Abuse in the First Degree, one count of Sodomy in the First Degree, one count of Unlawful Sexual Penetration in the Second Degree, and Attempt to Commit a Class B Felony.

Today, because of Sergeant Riley and Detective White’s investigative efforts and the courage of the victim to speak out, Kastle was sentenced to 102 years in prison.  Sheriff Duncan wants to commend Sergeant Riley and Detective White on their efforts to keep the children in Linn County safe and to find them justice.

JCSO Case 25-3378

MEDFORD, Ore. – Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies and Medford Police Department (MPD) officers arrested a suspect yesterday after she attempted to elude during a traffic stop. The suspect, Whittney Ann Word, 32, a Medford area transient, was booked and lodged in the Jackson County Jail. She is charged with attempting to elude in a vehicle, recklessly endangering, and reckless driving. The passenger in the vehicle, William Clifford Sanders, 51, a Medford area transient, interfered with the arrest and was booked and lodged in the Jail. He is charged with interfering with a peace officer, and resisting arrest.

Thursday, June 26 at 1:04 PM at the intersection of 10^th Street and Fir Street in Medford, a JCSO deputy observed a vehicle run a stop sign and nearly strike a bicyclist. The deputy activated lights and sirens and the suspect vehicle eluded at slow speeds. After observing the vehicle run multiple stop signs and with no traffic in the immediate area, the deputy received permission to perform a Pursuit Intervention Technique (PIT) maneuver to disable the vehicle. A PIT maneuver is a technique utilized to end police pursuits when vehicles are eluding law enforcement.

The PIT maneuver was unsuccessful and the vehicle continued eluding onto Barnett Road. At that point speeds increased to approximately 60 miles per hour. The suspect ran a red light at the intersection of Barnett Road and Riverside Avenue nearly colliding with a vehicle. The suspect vehicle continued eluding until the deputy performed a successful PIT maneuver near the intersection of East Barnett Road and Highland Drive. MPD arrived to assist and helped take the suspect into custody. The passenger interfered with law enforcement during the arrest. Both suspects were transported to the Jail. This case in under further investigation, there is no additional information available for release at this time.  

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Clatsop County, Ore. 27 June 2025- On Thursday, June 26, 2025, at 1:21 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle crash on Highway 101, near milepost 27, in Clatsop County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Toyota Tacoma, operated by Ian Granville Hix (30) of Seaside, crossed into the northbound lane for unknown reasons and struck a northbound Honda CRV, operated by Phyllis J. Harding (76) of San Francisco (CA), head-on. The Honda was pushed to the northbound shoulder while the Toyota continued in the northbound lane and struck a northbound Nissan Rogue, operated by Charles Paul LeBlanc (57) of Albuquerque (NM), head-on. 

The operator of the Toyota (HIX) suffered serious injuries and was transported to an area hospital.

The operator of the Honda (Harding) suffered serious injuries and was transported to an area hospital.

The operator of the Nissan (Charles P. LeBlanc) and passenger, Jennifer Lyria LeBlanc (52) of Albuquerque (NM), suffered serious injuries and were transported to an area hospital.

Two additional passengers of the Nissan, a female juvenile (15) and a female juvenile (12), were declared deceased as a result of injuries sustained during the crash.

The highway was impacted for approximately seven hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Cannon Beach Police Department, Gearhart Police Department, Cannon Beach Fire, Seaside Fire, and ODOT.

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

Salem, Ore. — Imagine suddenly losing $250 of your monthly budget. What would you have to give up—meals, medication, peace of mind?

For more than 1,500 families in Oregon, this wasn’t a thought exercise. It happened to them in 2024 when they reported their food or cash benefits were stolen, likely through organized fraud.

This theft of food and cash benefits­­—Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)—are a growing and serious problem nationwide and here in Oregon.

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is working hard to fight this theft. The agency urges everyone who uses SNAP or TANF to protect their EBT card and benefits. Easy ways to protect your EBT card include:

• Freeze the card between uses
• Block out-of-state and online purchases
• Check EBT account regularly

More information is available on the Protect Your EBT Card and Benefits webpage. There is a brochure, flyer and wallet card available in many languages. There are also short videos about using an EBT card, how to replace an EBT card and all the ways to protect your EBT benefits. These are posted in the How-to Videos section of benefits.oregon.gov.

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How to manage your medical, food, cash and child care benefits:

• In your language: Help in Your Language.
• By phone: Call 1-800-699-9075. Some self-service features are available 24/7, such as checking your benefit status or ordering a new EBT card. All relay calls are accepted.
• Online at: benefits.oregon.gov.
• Through the free Oregon ONE Mobile app available on Apple and Android app stores.
• In person at an office near you: Find an office.
• By mail at: ONE Customer Service Center, PO Box 14015, Salem, OR 97309.
• By fax at: 503-378-5628.

 Resources to help meet basic needs

• Find food resources.
• Learn about government programs and community resources for older adults and people with disabilities: Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon at 1-855-673-2372 or adrcoforegon.org.
• Dial 2-1-1, or text your zip code to 898-211, 211info.org

About the Oregon Department of Human Services

The mission of the Oregon Department of Human Services is to help Oregonians in their own communities achieve wellbeing and independence through opportunities that protect, empower, respect choice and preserve dignity.

ROSEBURG, OR – A H.O.P.E. Drug Court participant has started a Hope and Healing Drive to collect needed wound care items for people in the community who utilize the Connecting Point Mobile Navigation Program services and Adapt’s Opiod Treatment Program.

Samuel Denney, RN, MSN, Director of Opioid Treatment Programs – Douglas and Coos County, said, “A vast majority of individuals enrolled in our care are unhoused without immediate access to healthcare. Patients suffer from the societal stigma of homelessness and substance abuse treatment, leading them to not access Urgent Care or Emergency Services. These minor wound kits are crucial for patients to utilize in prevention of treatable ailments becoming secondary or worsening infections. These kits will allow for patients to provide basic first aid without having to access primary, urgent, or emergency services. Kits donated to our program will provide protection for our society’s most vulnerable populations and will be an enormous help in offsetting the lack of healthcare access experienced by our patients.”

Adapt’s Opioid Treatment Program: Restoring Hope and Health

Adapt’s Opioid Treatment Program provides science-based, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) using methadone and buprenorphine—two of the most effective medications available for treating opioid use disorder.

A dedicated team of physicians, nurses, and counselors deliver both stabilizing medications and comprehensive rehabilitative services, helping individuals regain stability, health, and hope as they navigate recovery.

To learn more about the program and how these services support individuals and families, visit:
Opioid Treatment Program – Adapt Oregon.

HOPE Drug Court Participant to Distribute Wound Care Kits at Connecting Point

On Thursday, August 7, 2025, HOPE Drug Court participant Brittany Holmes will be distributing her wound care kits during the Connecting Point mobile navigation program, which runs from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. in front of the Opioid Treatment Center on NE Winchester Street.  Leftovers will be given to the Opioid Treatment Center to distribute at their discretion. Dane Zahner, HIV Alliance and Connecting Point lead contact added, “Wound care kits are amazing. It's our number one item at the Connecting Point when we do Outreach and have supplied 652 kits in 2025. The impact of this project will expand our abilities as we have recently expanded into Reedsport with a monthly event. We are now in six Douglas County communities to help overcome transportation and access to connection to care.”   

To download a Connecting Point flyer and to see other community resources, go to:  Resources | Douglas County, OR.

HOPE Drug Court Participant Launches Community Wound Care Supply Drive

Ms. Brittany Holmes, a participant in the Douglas County H.O.P.E. Drug Court program, is taking initiative to support the local community through the creation and distribution of wound care kits.  “Self-care is a critical role of overcoming the past and healing from the scars of the wounds created. Survival is proof of strength,” said Holmes.

Ms. Holmes is kicking off her project with a two-day carwash at Abby’s Legendary Pizza, 1661 NE Stephens Street, to wash vehicles for money donations and to be a location drop off for items on her list.  The carwash will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on June 28 and 29.

To support this effort, she is seeking donations of the following items:

• Gauze
• Adhesive dressings and tape
• Cotton balls & Q-tips
• Alcohol pads
• Toiletry scissors
• Saline solution
• Instant cold packs
• Travel-size or individually packed ibuprofen
• Burn cream, Neosporin, antibiotic cream
• Small, medium, and large pads
• Medical gloves
• Small hand sanitizers
• Sunscreen
• Liquid IV packs
• Other basic first aid supplies

Community drop-off locations for donations:

• Opioid Treatment Program – 406 NE Winchester Street, Roseburg
• Painted Horse Recovery – 1941 NE Stephens Street, Roseburg

Your contributions will help provide essential care and dignity to individuals in need. Thank you for supporting this powerful example of recovery in action.

Douglas County H.O.P.E. Drug Court to Celebrate 110th Graduation Ceremony

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

Presided over by the Honorable Judge Robert B. Johnson, H.O.P.E. Drug Court operates under the jurisdiction of the Douglas County Circuit Court. The program is structured to reduce recidivism, address substance use disorders, and support participants in redefining their lives beyond their criminal behavior. Its mission is rooted in fostering personal transformation and unlocking future potential.

As a hallmark of the program’s final phase, Graduate Community Projects allow participants to showcase their personal growth, community engagement, and the mindset shift that inspires them to pursue meaningful, long-term success.

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

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

On June 16, 2025, as a culmination of a months-long investigation into 32-year-old Jonathan Blackwood of Lincoln City, the Lincoln City Police Department Narcotics Detective, supported by members of the Toledo Police Department, McMinnville Police Department, and the LCPD patrol division, executed a search warrant at Blackwood’s residence on NE 36^th Drive. The subsequent search led to the discovery of controlled substances including suspected Fentanyl, illegal prescription pills, and substantial quantities of Heroin. In addition to the controlled substances, further evidence of Blackwood’s drug dealing operation, which spanned over several years, was also uncovered.

Due to unforeseen circumstances, Blackwood was not lodged in jail at the time of the operation. 42-year-old, Cody Ravagni of Lincoln City, was lodged at the Lincoln County Jail on a charge of Frequenting a Place where Controlled Substances are Used for knowingly permitting the residence he rented to be used for such activities. The case has been forwarded to the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office.

LCPD would like to thank the Toledo Police Department and McMinnville Police Department for their assistance in this investigation.

During the approximate 6 months in which the LCPD Narcotics Detective has been operating in this position, he has recovered substantial quantities of Methamphetamine, Fentanyl, and Heroin, as well as proceeds from narcotics trafficking approaching nearly $100,000.

The Lincoln City Police Department urges citizens to report suspected drug activity by calling 541-994-3636 or emailing drugtips@lincolncity.org.

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

Julie Winters, 46, of Portland, has been charged by criminal complaint with the felony of attempted assault of a federal officer.

Aziel Chambers, 20, of Merlin, Oregon, has been charged by information with the misdemeanor offenses of assault on a federal officer, creating a hazard on federal property, and failing to obey a lawful order.

Rachel Jean Pope, 28, of Portland, has been charged by information with the misdemeanor offense of assault on a federal officer.

According to court documents and information shared in court, on June 24, 2025, several individuals gathered near an ICE office in South Portland where, for weeks, individuals have repeatedly targeted the building and federal law enforcement officers with threatening statements, discharging pepper spray, and throwing rocks, trash, and bricks. At approximately 11:00pm, two individuals attempted to set a U.S. flag on fire in the driveway of the building.

To clear the driveway, federal officers dispensed less than lethal means, including gas canisters, to disperse the crowd. Pope picked up one of the metal canisters and threw it towards the officers, hitting one of the officers.

At approximately 11:15pm, federal officers observed an individual, later identified as Winters, attempting to light an incendiary device next to the guard shack of the building. As FPS officers engaged with Winters, she pulled a large knife from her backpack and began waiving the blade toward the officers. Winters threw the knife at an officer, but it did not strike the officer. Winters began to flee but an officer deployed a taser, bringing Winters to the ground. As officers attempted to secure Winters, she pulled a second large knife from her waistband. An officer disarmed Winters and arrested her. 

The same evening, Chambers pointed a laser pointer at a federal officer, striking the officer in the eye. Chambers was also charged with failing to comply with an officer’s orders to leave the premises on June 17, 2025, and for throwing an object at federal property on June 20, 2025.  

All three defendants made their first appearances in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. Winters was detained pending future court proceedings. Pope and Chambers were released on conditions pending future court proceedings.

Attempting to assault a federal officer and inflict bodily injury is punishable by up to 20 years’ imprisonment. Misdemeanor assault of a federal officer is punishable by up to one year in federal prison. Failure to obey a lawful order and creating a hazard on federal property are Class C misdemeanors and carry a maximum penalty of 30 days in prison.

These cases were investigated by the FBI, FPS and ICE. They are being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

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

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Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports that on June 23, at 9:06 a.m., Justin Tyler Lima, 36, of Scio, was arrested after a warrant for his arrest was issued stemming from an investigation into multiple sex offenses.

The investigation began in October when an adult female known to Lima, disclosed that she had been sexually abused by Lima from the ages of 11 to 17 years of age. The abuse occurred at multiple locations in both Linn and Marion Counties.

The Linn County District Attorney’s Office and the Marion County District Attorney’s Office worked cooperatively in the charges for Lima.  The investigation was presented to a grand jury where they returned an indictment for Sex Abuse I, Unlawful Sexual Penetration I, Unlawful Sexual Penetration II, two counts of Sodomy II, two counts of Sodomy III, Rape II and two counts of Rape III.

Justin Lima was arrested at his residence without incident and lodged in the Marion County Jail.

Central Douglas Fire & Rescue, Roseburg Fire Department, Sutherlin Fire Department, Lookingglass Rural Fire District, and Umpqua Community College are proud to announce the launch of the First Annual Camp Ignition Point Young Women’s Fire Camp. This exciting new program is designed to empower, educate, and inspire women interested in exploring a career in the fire service.

Scheduled for June 30, July 1, and July 2, the camp will offer participants hands-on experience in firefighting skills, emergency medical services, teamwork exercises, and leadership development. Attendees will work alongside experienced female firefighters and fire officers, gaining valuable insight into the profession's physical, technical, and mental demands.

Open to women ages 15-21, the camp will feature activities including:

• Hose Handling and Fire Streams
• Search and Rescue drills
• Forcible Entry
• Ladders and Truck Company Aerial Demonstration
• Vehicle Extrication and Vehicle Fires
• EMS skills stations and Ambulance Tour
• Rescue Systems
• Career mentoring panels and Q&A with veteran female firefighters

The camp will be held at two locations. Day 1 will be held at Roseburg Fire Department, Station 1, which is located at the Roseburg Public Safety Center, 700 SE Douglas Avenue. Days 2 and 3 will be held at Central Douglas Fire & Rescue's Melrose Station, located at 2830 Melrose Road.

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Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

Portland, OR — The Oregon Geographic Names Board (OGNB) will consider several naming proposals for geographic sites at its June 27 meeting in Buxton, Oregon. The public are invited to attend the meeting via Zoom.

Meeting Information:

Friday, June 27, 2025

1:30pm to 4pm

Dairy Creek West Meeting Hall

L.L. Stub Stewart State Park

https://pdx.zoom.us/j/85048210451   

OGNB welcomes and will consider public comment on naming proposals. Written comments can be submitted in advance via email to ognb@ohs.org. For comment presented during meetings, OGNB asks that presenters limit their time to three minutes.

The full meeting agenda is available online, with the following proposals under consideration:

Rename Proposals:

Current Names: Balch Canyon, Balch Creek, Multnomah County

Proposed Renames: Kulla Kulla Canyon, Kulla Kulla Creek

Current Name: Dago Spring, Hood River County

Proposed Rename: Rattlesnake Bluff Spring

Current Name: Jew Valley, Lake County

Proposed Rename: Jewish Valley

New Name Proposals:

Coot Creek, Curry County

A new commemorative name proposal to name an unnamed creek Coot Creek to honor Glen Lee ‘Coot’ Wagner (1938–2016).

McLaren Creek, Clatsop County

A new commemorative name proposal to name an unnamed creek McLaren Creek to honor Earnest Irvine McLaren (1910–1985).

Beaver Creek, Jackson County

A new associative name proposal to name an unnamed creek that is a tributary to Bear Creek within the City of Phoenix urban boundary.

Borges Butte, Clackamas County

A new commemorative name proposal to name an unnamed butte near Damascus to honor Carl Christian Frederick Borges (1847–1928), who immigrated to the United States in 1878.

Deardorff Butte, Clackamas County

A new commemorative name proposal to name an unnamed butte near Damascus to honor the Deardorff family, among the region’s earliest settlers. According to the proposal, they arrived in 1851 and benefited from the 1850 Donation Land Claim Act. Christian and Matilda Deardorff (1805–1884 and 1802–1891, respectively) acquired 640 acres in Clackamas County.

Pleasant Butte, Clackamas County

The new associative name Pleasant Butte is proposed for a basalt butte with an elevation of 780 feet located north of the community of Damascus and in the southeastern corner of Pleasant Valley (a name in use since the 1880s) and just outside the City of Happy Valley.

Geographic names have been documented and standardized in the United States since 1890 when President Benjamin Harrison established the United States Board on Geographic Names (USBGN.) Its authority was further extended by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1906 and established in its present form by an act of Congress in 1947.

With the same concerns as the federal government, Governor George Chamberlain established the Oregon Geographic Board by executive order dated October 1, 1908, and it later became known as the Oregon Geographic Names Board (OGNB.) By 1911, the USBGN recognized the OGNB as the official advisor and state geographic names authority of Oregon. In 1959, Governor Mark Hatfield transferred the administration of the OGNB from state government to the Oregon Historical Society.

About the Oregon Geographic Names Board

The Oregon Geographic Names Board is an all-volunteer board of historians, journalists, cartographers, and other professions operating under the auspices of the Oregon Historical Society. Recommendations of the board, which meets twice a year throughout the state, go to the U.S. Board of Geographic Names for a final decision and, if approved, inclusion on the nation’s maps and the Geographic Names Information System, the government’s official list of approved names.

About the Oregon Historical Society

For more than 125 years, the Oregon Historical Society has served as the state’s collective memory, preserving a vast collection of photographs, books, maps, manuscript materials, films, oral histories, objects, and belongings. Our research library, museum, digital platforms, educational programming, and historical journal make Oregon’s history available to all. We preserve our state’s history and make it accessible to everyone in ways that advance knowledge and inspire curiosity about all the people, places, and events that have shaped Oregon. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 26, 2025

Health care and social assistance is a large and steadily growing sector of Oregon’s economy. Although overall job growth slowed recently in Oregon, gains have accelerated in the health care and social assistance sector.  

• In 2024, Oregon employers added 5,700 jobs (+0.3%) to nonfarm payrolls. By comparison, private health care and social assistance added 16,100 jobs (+5.7%) from 2023 to 2024, to reach an all-time high of 301,000 jobs.
• From 2001 to 2024, total nonfarm employment in Oregon grew by 24%. At the same time, private health care and social assistance grew by 92%.

Private health care and social assistance employers reported the largest number of job openings among all sectors of Oregon’s economy for most of the past 12 years. As job growth has accelerated, so has the sector’s share of all job vacancies in Oregon.

• Prior to the pandemic recession, health care and social assistance generally accounted for one out of every five private-sector job openings.
• In 2024, the sector’s share rose to nearly one-third (32%) of all job vacancies. Private health care and social assistance had an average of 18,200 job openings at any given time during the year.
• Personal care aides and registered nurses had the largest number of health care job openings in 2024. They also had the largest number of vacancies reported by employers as difficult to fill.

Health care and social assistance will also lead future job growth in Oregon. Total employment is expected to grow by 170,000 jobs (or 8%) between 2023 and 2033. Health care and social assistance is projected to grow by 13%, adding 37,000 jobs.

• One out of every five new jobs added in Oregon by 2033 will be in health care and social assistance.
• Seven of the 15 fastest-growing occupations in Oregon over the decade are related to health care. They include nurse practitioners, physician assistants, medical health and services managers, veterinarians, and veterinary assistants and technicians.

Employers will also need to replace workers who retire, otherwise leave the labor force, or make major occupational changes away from health care and social assistance. Adding these replacement job openings to projected growth, health care and social assistance will average nearly 38,000 total job openings each year through 2033. Growth expectations in future years could be hindered by increasing retirements, or an insufficient pipeline of workers into the sector. More details are available in the full report at QualityInfo.org.

A podcast version of the report is also available on the OED YouTube page.

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The Oregon Employment Department (OED) is an equal opportunity agency. OED provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken-language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1444. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to communications@employ.oregon.gov.

El Departamento de Empleo de Oregon (OED) es una agencia de igualdad de oportunidades. El OED proporciona ayuda gratuita para que usted pueda utilizar nuestros servicios. Algunos ejemplos son intérpretes de lengua de señas e idiomas hablados, materiales escritos en otros idiomas, letra grande, audio y otros formatos. Para obtener ayuda, por favor llame al 503-947-1444. Usuarios de TTY pueden llamar al 711. También puede enviar un correo electrónico a communications@employ.oregon.gov.

FIREWORK SAFETY

Summer fun is officially here, and the Fourth of July is just around the corner. For many, fireworks are a sign of celebration, however, there are some important safety measures to consider. Fireworks, loud sounds, and bright, sudden flashes can trigger vets, pets, and people with PTSD. If you choose to use fireworks, remember to check for local ordinances and regulations, be considerate of others, consider the time of day and the location, and prioritize safety.

Know the Difference and Consequences

It is important to know the difference between a legal consumer firework and a dangerous explosive device. Illegal items in Oregon include any firework that flies into the air, explodes or behaves in an uncontrolled or unpredicted manner. Some examples include firecrackers, torpedoes, skyrockets, Roman candles, bottle rockets, or other items of similar construction and any item containing explosive or flammable compounds.

Tablets or other devices containing explosive substances or flammable compounds are not legal in Oregon without a permit. Items such as M-80s, M-100s and blockbusters are not fireworks, they are federally banned explosives. They can cause serious injury or even death. Stay away from anything that isn't clearly labeled with the name of the item, the manufacturer's name, and instructions for proper use.

Possession of illegal fireworks in Oregon is a Class B Misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $10,000 and/or six months in jail. If you are aware of anyone selling such devices, contact your local law enforcement agency.

All fireworks are prohibited in all state parks and on ocean beaches. Violations may be punishable by fine.

General Firework Safety

Read and follow all warnings and instructions on fireworks. Be sure that people maintain a safe distance from where fireworks are lit. Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from buildings, dry leaves, and flammable materials -never light and throw any fireworks.  Never try to relight fireworks that have not fully functioned.

Fireworks are not toys. NEVER give fireworks to children. Close adult supervision of all fireworks activities is mandatory, this includes sparklers. 

Pets are more sensitive to loud noises, flashing lights, and strong smells. It is best to leave your pets safely indoors, preferably with a radio or TV turned on to soften sudden noises. If you cannot leave your pet indoors, keep them leashed and under your direct control at all times. Keep your pet’s collar and ID tag on at all times and update your pet’s license with your current contact information in case they get separated from you.

If you are traveling and plan to use fireworks, look up local ordinances that may be in place. Remember to save the address of where you are staying or using the fireworks in case you need to call 911.

Fire Prevention

Be aware of your surroundings and weather conditions. Areas are more prone to fires when the weather is warm and windy. Dry landscape greatly increases the likelihood of fire starting, not just from fireworks, but other activities that create sparks or flame.

If you choose to use fireworks, make sure the area is clear of anything flammable such as debris, furniture, and grass or shrubbery. Keep fireworks pointed away from buildings, greenery, and other areas that may catch fire. Keep a bucket of water and a hose ready to respond if needed.

Whether you are lighting fireworks yourself or watching an organized show, know the address so that you can quickly call 911 if a fire starts.
 

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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Media partners - I forgot to ask that you not publicize the event ahead of time. The parking lot is really tiny and we're saving that space for you! - Devon

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Lane County Parks and the Friends of Buford Park & Mount Pisgah will hold a ribbon cutting celebrating recent improvements to Trail 3E at Howard Buford Recreation Area on Friday, June 27, at 10:00 a.m.

The project improves accessibility on a popular section of trail and re-routes a portion through the woods to provide more space for ground-nesting birds, helping reduce disturbance in sensitive habitat areas. The result is a more welcoming and accessible trail experience for all visitors.

Media are invited to attend the ribbon cutting. Parking is limited; a map to the East Trailhead parking area on Ridgeway Road is available online. The location of the ribbon cutting is approximately 1,500 feet from the parking area on a well-graded gravel path.

The trail work was led by the Friends of Buford Park, who also secured a state grant to cover much of the cost. Lane County Parks contributed funding through the voter-approved Parks Levy, which helps improve safety, accessibility, and infrastructure throughout the park system.

Who: Lane County Parks and Friends of Buford Park
What: Ribbon cutting for Trail 3E improvements
When: Friday, June 27, at 10:00 a.m.
Where: Howard Buford Recreation Area East Trailhead
Why: Celebrate a community partnership improving access and habitat at one of Lane County’s most loved parks

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ROSEBURG, OR – A H.O.P.E. Drug Court participant has partnered with NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) to create the first 5K walk/run in Douglas County called “Together We Heal’ emphasizing the importance of reducing the stigma around mental illness.

Barb Hofford, NAMI Douglas, has introduced Kristy Parhman, an upcoming HOPE Drug Court graduate, and stated, “Her life, and those of some family members, have been majorly impacted by mental health issues.  Those graduating from the program are required to do a community service project that helps a cause they feel strongly about.  We are very fortunate that she chose Mental Health Awareness as her service project and invited NAMI Douglas to partner with her.  We are privileged to help with this very worthwhile project.”  Kristy Parham added, “I am excited about this one.  I want to help reduce stigmas and provide awareness and resources at the event.”

NAMI Douglas is an organization of families, friends, and individuals whose lives have been affected by mental illness. Together, they advocate for better lives for those individuals who have a mental illness.  They offer support groups, resources, education, events and advocacy.  NAMI started as a small group of families in 1979 gathered around a kitchen table.  There are over 650 NAMI State organizations and local affiliates across the country.  To learn more about the program, go to www.namidouglas.org.

Join Us for the Mental Health Awareness 5K!
Location: Stewart Park Pavilion, Roseburg
Date & Time:

• Info Tables Open: 9:00 a.m.
• Ribbon Cutting & Walk/Run Begins: 10:00 a.m.

This community 5K walk/run is open to all! Come show your support for mental health awareness.

Highlights of the Event:

• Free event t-shirts while supplies last (available by the NAMI table)
• Two water stations along the route, including bowls for pets
• Friendly, leashed dogs are welcome to join
• Free registration for all participants

Register today: Register on Eventbrite  or scan the QR code on the flyer!

Let’s walk (or run) together for a great cause!

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

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

EUGENE, Ore.— A Eugene man was sentenced to federal prison today for trafficking fentanyl and methamphetamine in Oregon.

David Toedtemeier, 34, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release.

According to court documents, on January 24, 2022, as part of a drug trafficking investigation, officers from the Central Oregon Drug Enforcement (CODE) team conducted a traffic stop on Toedtemeier’s vehicle in Deschutes County, Oregon. Toedtemeier, his wife, and their infant child were in the vehicle at the time of the stop.

The officers searched Toedtemeier’s vehicle and located a safe on the rear passenger floorboard, located just beneath the car seat of the infant child, which contained fentanyl pills, heroin, methamphetamine, and a firearm. Additionally, officers found fentanyl, methamphetamine, a digital scale, Narcan nasal spray, and multiple cell phones in the trunk of the vehicle.

Later the same day, officers searched Toedtemeier’s residence and seized methamphetamine, heroin, and a firearm. When questioned by investigators, Toedtemeier admitted to possessing the drugs and firearms and stated that he intended to sell the drugs in Oregon.  

On February 17, 2022, Toedtemeier was charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

On March 6, 2025, Toedtemeier pleaded guilty to one-count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and one-count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

The case was investigated by the CODE team with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Agency. It was prosecuted by Adam E. Delph, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

The CODE team is a multi-jurisdictional operation, comprised of federal, state, county and city law enforcement agencies that investigate large-scale drug trafficking organizations.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 80 to 100 times more powerful than morphine and 30 to 50 times more powerful than heroin. A 2-milligram dose of fentanyl—a few grains of the substance—is enough to kill an average adult male. The wide availability of illicit fentanyl in Oregon has caused a dramatic increase in overdose deaths throughout the state.

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

If you or someone you know suffers from addiction, please call the Lines for Life substance abuse helpline at 1-800-923-4357 or visit www.linesforlife.org. Phone support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also text “RecoveryNow” to 839863 between 2pm and 6pm Pacific Time daily.

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Earlier this month, https://www.tillamookfiredistrict.com/. Click or tap if you trust this link.">Tillamook Fire District  reached out to South Fork Forest Camp (SCCF) to assist with a backcountry rescue on the Kings Mountain Trail in the Tillamook State Forest. SFFC Security staff and a 10-man crew of adults in custody responded to the call. Upon arriving at the trailhead, they learned a hiker had suffered a broken ankle approximately 1.3 miles up the steep terrain.

The team hiked in and worked alongside Fire/EMS personnel to safely carry the injured hiker back to the trailhead, showcasing teamwork, strength, and a commitment to helping the community.

SFFC is minimum-security work camp that houses approximately 200 adults in custody who are within four years of release. Part of SFFC's mission is to supply a ready work force to combat forest or wildfires throughout the state. Crews provide critical support for statewide fire operations, recreation, and reforestation; as well as provide support for special projects such as sign making, metal fabrication, and tool or equipment repair. SFFC was established in 1951 and is a satellite facility to CRCI and managed jointly with the Oregon Department of Forestry. It is located approximately 28 miles east of Tillamook, just off of Highway 6 along the Wilson River in the Tillamook Forest.

Visit Department of Corrections: Welcome Page: State of Oregon for more information about the Oregon Department of Corrections.

Visit https://www.tillamookfiredistrict.com/. Click or tap if you trust this link.">Tillamook Fire District for more information about the Tillamook Fire District.

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EUGENE, Ore.—A Salem, Oregon man was sentenced to federal prison today for requesting sexually explicit materials from undercover law enforcement officers posing as children online and attempting to persuade the purported children to engage in illicit sexual conduct.

Gary Wade Ronning, 40, was sentenced to 130 months in federal prison and ten years’ supervised release.

According to court documents, in March 2023, Ronning used Facebook Messenger, an online messaging application, to contact an undercover law enforcement officer posing as a 15-year-old girl as part of a broader investigation into online enticement of minors. For months, Ronning engaged in sexually explicit communications with the officer, requested sexually explicit images of the purported child, sent sexually explicit photos and videos of himself, and planned a meeting to engage in illicit sexual conduct. However, when it came time for the meetup, Ronning did not follow through with his plans.

Between October and November 2023, Ronning communicated with two other undercover officers posing as 13-year-old and 15-year-old children online. Ronning again engaged in sexually explicit conversations, sent sexually explicit images and videos of himself, and attempted to arrange meetups to engage in illicit sexual conduct. During these conversations, Ronning expressed awareness that his actions were illegal and repeatedly reminded the fictitious children not to tell anyone about his plans.

On January 18, 2024, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned a five-count indictment charging Ronning with attempted coercion and enticement of a minor, attempting to use a minor to produce a visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct, and attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor.

On January 22, 2025, Ronning pleaded guilty to attempted coercion and enticement of a minor.

This case was investigated by the FBI and the Redmond Police Department, with assistance from the Salem Police Department. It was prosecuted by William M. McLaren, Assistant United States Attorney for the District of Oregon.

Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children are encouraged to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.

The FBI Child Exploitation Task Force (CETF) conducts sexual exploitation investigations, many of them undercover, in coordination with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. CETF is committed to locating and arresting those who prey on children as well as recovering and assisting victims of sex trafficking and child exploitation.

Federal law defines child pornography as any visual depiction of sexually explicit conduct involving a minor. It is important to remember child sexual abuse material depicts actual crimes being committed against children. Not only do these images and videos document the victims’ exploitation and abuse, but when shared across the internet, re-victimize and re-traumatize the child victims each time their abuse is viewed. To learn more, please visit the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Justice Department to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

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North Bend School District Public Meetings – July 2025

Below are North Bend School District public meetings currently scheduled for July:
 

July 1, 2025

Regular Board Meeting

North Bend City Hall Council Chambers at 6:00 p.m.

835 California Ave., North Bend, OR

The schedule is subject to change.

Please email rix@nbend.k12.or.us">mbrix@nbend.k12.or.us or visit the NBSD Website: https://meetings.boardbook.org/Public/Organization/1573 for agenda information

INDEPENDENCE, Oregon— The Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission approved out-of-state fees for parking permits, beach driving restrictions in Manzanita and a small land purchase near Silver Falls at its meeting in Independence June 18.

The beach driving restriction was requested by Manzanita City Council due to concerns about public safety with increased visitation and ecosystem preservation. There was a public comment process, then the closure was reviewed by the commission, Manzanita City Council and Tillamook County Commission.

Previously, the ocean shore near Manzanita was open to vehicles 7 a.m. to noon from October 1 to April 30. The approved closure will eliminate that open period, but individuals who need to launch boats can still access the ocean shore by permit.

In other business, the commission approved:

• Updating (OAR 736-015-0030) to expand the 25% out-of-state surcharge to parking permit fees for visitors who do not live in Oregon. The approved surcharge will increase daily parking permit fees by $2 for out-of-state visitors starting July 1, 2025. The 12-month permit will be $7 more for out-of-state visitors and the 24-month permit will be $12 more for out-of-state visitors.
• Starting rulemaking for implementation prior to House Bill 3190, which reauthorizes the Special Assessment of Historic Properties program as a 10-year benefit for commercial, income-producing historic properties.
• Starting rulemaking to implement changes to procurement and contracting included in SB 838B, which will provide OPRD a limited exemption from the state’s Public Contracting Code— to better serve park visitors and support local businesses based on the agency’s 24/7 operations schedule. The exemption does not apply to surplus property, information technology, photogrammetric mapping or telecommunications.
• Purchasing a 37-acre parcel of property next to Silver Falls State Park for $960,000. The land could provide needed staff housing, emergency response access and is located near the future Visitor Center near North Falls, which would provide easy access for staff.

Outgoing commissioner Vicki Berger was recognized for her eight years of service to Oregon Parks and Recreation Department and the state of Oregon. Retiring Oregon Parks and Recreation Department staff members Chrissy Curran, Rebecca Jasso and Alice Beals also received appreciation for their dedication and contributions. This was the first meeting for new commissioners Stu Spence and Dave Parulo. Their terms expire May 2029.

The full agenda with documents are available on the commission website and a recording of the meeting is available on the OPRD Director’s Office YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eE3ov5VnFKY

The Marine Board, Sheriff’s Offices across the state, and the Oregon State Police will be participating in Operation Dry Water, July 4-6, as part of a nationally coordinated effort to reduce the number of accidents and fatalities related to boating under the influence of intoxicants (BUII).  

Boating under the influence of intoxicants means prescription drugs, alcohol, inhalants, marijuana, or any other substance that impairs a person’s ability to operate a boat safely. The effects of drugs and alcohol are amplified on the water, due to the combined impacts of environmental stressors like sun glare, wind, wave motion and other factors. Alcohol also dehydrates the body, making sudden immersion into cold water an even greater risk of drowning. 

Impaired boaters face serious penalties. The consequences of a BUII conviction include possible jail time, a $6,250 fine and loss of boating privileges. Marine officers can legally obtain blood, breath or urine if a boater fails field sobriety tests.

“Recreational boating is a relatively safe activity when boating sober, wearing life jackets, and staying aware of the surroundings,” says Brian Paulsen, Boating Safety Program Manager for the Marine Board. So far this year, the common denominators for boating fatalities are not wearing a life jacket and hazardous water.

If you see an impaired operator or someone who is operating in a way that threatens others’ safety, call 911 to report it.

For more information about Operation Dry Water, visit www.operationdrywater.org.

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Toketee, Ore. – A California man was severely injured after falling approximately 40 feet while visiting Toketee Falls on Monday, resulting in a hours-long rescue involving multiple agencies.

On Monday, June 23, 2025, shortly after 1:00 p.m., a group of friends from Southern California were visiting Toketee Falls and crossed over the chain link safety fence and proceeded down approximately 200 feet to the beach area at the bottom. While taking turns jumping off a cliff into the water pool, 20-year-old Nicholas Foy of Newbury Park, California slipped and fell approximately 40 feet onto the rocks below, hitting his head.

The Sheriff’s Office along with Douglas County Search & Rescue, Glide Fire Department, Central Douglas Fire & Rescue, Umpqua Valley Ambulance and REACH Air Medical Services were dispatched to the scene and stabilized Foy.

Deputies, coordinating with the Oregon State Search and Rescue Coordinator, requested assistance from the United States Coast Guard to conduct a hoist. However, once the Coast Guard arrived on scene, it was determined they were unable to reach the patient.

Fire personnel were able to establish a rope system to extricate Foy to the trail and into a waiting ambulance around 7:18 pm. He was then transported by ground ambulance to the REACH Air Medical Services helicopter and was airlifted to PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center RiverBend in Springfield.

REEDSPORT, Ore. - Fire officials with the Bureau of Land Management plan to conduct a prescribed burn at the Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area on June 30 and July 1, 2025.

Agency officials will burn approximately 100 acres of grass to improve elk forage and habitat at the popular wildlife viewing area. They will also reduce hazardous fuels in the roadside grasslands. Currently, the area is home to a wild herd of 80 to 100 Roosevelt elk.

The dates of the burn may change based on weather.

“Burning at Dean Creek is one of the best tools we have to encourage nutrient rich grasses to grow,” Glenn Huff, Umpqua Field Manager, said. “Green grasses emerge in as little as a week after the burn. This healthy grass is what keep the elk coming back year after year.”

The controlled burn may result in short traffic delays on Highway 38 between mile marker three and six. The BLM asks motorists to travel cautiously through the area. Traffic controllers will help direct traffic during periods of reduced visibility. The main viewing area, kiosk, and restrooms will remain open during the burn operation.

BLM fire officials coordinate with the Oregon Department of Forestry’s smoke management program to burn during weather conditions that minimize the amount of smoke in local communities. Smoke from the burn may be visible from Reedsport and other nearby locations.

Contractors, Coos Forest Protective Association, and U.S. Forest Service personnel will assist the BLM with the burning operations.

For additional information on the BLM’s wildland fire program, please visit blm.gov/programs/fire-and-aviation. Photos and video of the Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area and past prescribed burns are available on Flickr.

-BLM-

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

Please see attached.

SALEM, Ore. – There are two new faces at ODF’s Urban and Community Forestry Program – Allison O’Sullivan and Miriam ‘Mirms’ Miller.

Allison O’Sullivan is the agency’s newest Community Assistance Forester. O’Sullivan has a bachelor’s degree from Stanford University in Anthropological Sciences and an associate’s degree equivalency from Clackamas Community College in Arboriculture and Horticulture. She is an ISA-Certified Arborist, a Qualified Tree-Risk Assessor, and a Certified Permaculture Designer.

For the past 20 years O’Sullivan  has worked across the environmental sector with community organizations, nonprofits, businesses, and government to connect people with land in a mutually beneficial and ecologically healthy way. She spent the last seven  years working with Portland Parks and Recreation (PP and R) in both the Urban Forestry and Land Stewardship divisions. During this time, she:

• managed tree planting and establishment programs
• implemented sustainable stewardship of hundreds of acres of Portland Parks, including the 200-acre Hoyt Arboretum
• served on the PP and R Diversity and Equity Committee, working to provide equitable and accessible services.

In her free time, O’Sullivan stewards an orchard at her farm in Damascus and loves exploring the outdoors.

Born and raised in the Willamette Valley, Miriam ‘Mirms’ Miller since 2022 has supported Forest Resources events across the state.  In her new position as an Administrative Specialist 2, Mirms will continue to provide customer service and administrative support to the Forest Resources Division but will now also assist ODF’s Urban and Community Forestry team administer its two new Subaward Grant Programs: The Tribal Governments Subaward Program and the All Entities Subaward Program. Miller’s first day in the new position was March 1.

“We are thrilled to have Allison and Mirms on the team and look forward to tapping into their knowledge and experience,” said Scott Altenhoff, Urban and Community Forestry Program Manager.

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OnPoint Community Credit Union Appoints New Chief Risk Officer,

Financial Wellness Manager

PORTLAND, Ore.,  — OnPoint Community Credit Union announced today it has filled two key roles within the organization. Stephen Cantrell, has been promoted to chief risk officer from his position of chief audit officer. Peter Rector has joined OnPoint as financial wellness manager. Rector formerly worked at the Oregon State Treasury.

"Keeping our members’ investments and funds secure is our top priority,” said Rob Stuart, president and CEO, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “Stephen’s extensive expertise and tenure at OnPoint is the ideal person to lead us into the future.”

Leading Risk Management

As chief risk officer, Cantrell will oversee the credit union’s Risk, Bank Security Act, Fraud, and Internal Audit teams. His passion for risk management is personal.

“I’ve seen the incredible impact that OnPoint has on our members and community, and as we scale that impact into the future, the need for risk management is more important than ever,” said Stephen Cantrell, chief risk officer, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “In my new role, I will work to ensure our processes, procedures and policies continue to protect the interests of every member we serve.”

Before joining OnPoint, Cantrell served in audit and operational risk roles at Mechanics Bank, Rabobank, and Umpqua Bank. He also served in the U.S. Army Reserve and spent four years on active duty in the U.S. Army.

Advancing Financial Education

Rector will lead OnPoint’s Financial Wellness team, a key role in fulfilling the organization’s purpose: Making communities stronger through financial well-being.

“Peter’s commitment to excellence, community engagement, and organizational growth will help us find new ways to deliver this critical knowledge to our communities.” said Tim Clevenger, chief marketing officer, OnPoint Community Credit Union.

Before joining OnPoint, Rector held positions at Maps Credit Union and the Oregon State Treasury. He earned an MBA from Willamette University and his Credit Union Development Educator (CUDE) designation from the National Credit Union Foundation in 2022.

# # # 

About OnPoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union in Oregon, serving over 613,000 members and with assets of $9.7 billion. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and two Washington counties (Skamania and Clark) and their immediate family members. OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at onpointcu.com or 503-228-7077; 800-527-3932.

BEND, OR — From canvas to photographs to sculptures, the annual Art in the West exhibition and online auction features the very best of art inspired by the High Desert. On Saturday, July 5, the High Desert Museum will unveil this year’s Art in the West exhibition featuring a captivating blend of traditional and contemporary artworks.

The exhibition celebrates the people, wildlife, landscapes, cultures and history of the region that stretches from the eastern slope of the Cascades and Sierras to the Rockies. 

“We are always in awe of the diverse array of artwork that continues to captivate visitors, and this year was no exception,” said Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. “These works unveil fresh and unique perspectives of the West, helping us better understand and appreciate the region.”

Visitors to the Museum will be awed by the vast array of artworks ranging from landscapes to abstracts. Two artists’ works are recognized each year as part of the exhibition, one as Jury’s Choice and another as Curator’s Choice. 

The 2025 Jury’s Choice winner is Jake Trujillo’s Painted Hills No. 1, an 18” x 24” oil over acrylic panel. Based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Trujillo is known for his oil and acrylic landscape paintings of the Southwest. His paintings feature innovative and dynamic color, blending traditional landscape oil painting with modern design and psychedelia. A featured artist at Sun & Dust Gallery in Santa Fe, Trujillo’s work seeks to emphasize the craft of the artwork as much as the color and theme. As such, each painting is hand framed. Visitors can also view Trujillo’s Moab No. 3 (oil over acrylic on panel, 14” x 11”) in the exhibition.

Frank Buffalo Hyde, who participated in the 2024 Sensing Sasquatch exhibition at the Museum, is this year’s Curator’s Choice award winner. Hyde’s 25” x 34” acrylic on canvas Buffalo Fields Forever invokes a vibrant and unique perspective. Hyde’s paintings examine and elevate an image of contemporary Indigenous life through a pop sensibility and uncompromising satirical eye. His work has been shown at museums including the Wheelright Museum of the American Indian in Santa Fe and the Gilcrease Museum in Tulsa, Okla. Other works by Hyde that will be on display include Agency #8.

Those artists are just the tip of the iceberg. The 2025 exhibition boasts nearly 120 pieces crafted by acclaimed painters, sculptors, photographers and more, hailing from across the country.

Visitors and art enthusiasts can look forward to seeing works by national artists such as David Sherwin Parker and local favorites like Judy Hoiness. Parker’s Impressionist style in his 18” x 24” oil on canvas, A Journey Together, depicts a vibrant return to the West. Hoiness, a fourth-generation Oregonian and Bend resident, will showcase her acrylic on canvas, The Great Basin-A Moment in Time.

Another artist returns to the Museum for Art in the West. Hilary Baker’s Night, a 24” x 24” acrylic on linen, was showcased in a past Museum exhibition, Neighbors: Wildlife Paintings by Hilary Baker.

The entire 2025 collection will be on exhibit at the High Desert Museum and available for viewing through the Museum’s online auction page at highdesertmuseum.org/aiw. Visitors and art enthusiasts can preview the collection using the 2025 Gallery Guide available online. Online bidding will start on July 5 at 9:00 am, with the opportunity to purchase artwork outright. The auction is exclusively online, and shipping is available.  

The bidding concludes and the exhibition closes on Saturday, September 20, at the Art in the West Closing Party at the Museum. Attendees will have the opportunity to mingle with participating artists, watch live demonstrations and enjoy food and libations. The event begins at 6:00 pm and the auction closes at 7:00 pm. Register today at highdesertmuseum.org/aiw-closing-party-2025.  

Art in the West is made possible by Western Art Collector and American Art Collector magazines with support from Campfire Hotel, Central Oregon Radiology Associates and High Desert Frameworks.  

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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Supporting water needs in the community during hot temperatures this summer

Lane County Health & Human Services, in partnership with the Severe Weather Collaborative and First Christian Church, is calling the community to join in helping others to Beat the Heat by donating cases of water to Operation Summer Hydration. Operation Summer Hydration is an effort to collect much needed water supplies to help our unhoused neighbors stay safe during the high and extreme temperatures we continue to experience during the summer months. This water supply can also be accessed by local area cooling spaces who offer short term respite from the heat to both the housed and unhoused, when temperatures reach 90 degrees and above. These water donations can mean the difference between safety and hazardous health risks for those exposed to prolonged extreme heat and dehydration. Your generosity can make a life-saving difference for someone facing the elements this summer.

To kick off Operation Summer Hydration, the Severe Weather Collaborative and First Christian Church will host a one-day donation drive on Friday June 27th from 1pm-4pm where community members can drop off water donations. After the event, water donations will be accepted Monday through Thursday from 10am to 2pm at First Christian Church.

Water donations and other essential outdoor survival items to support those experiencing homelessness can also be purchased from the Amazon Wish List and shipped directly to First Christian Church at 1166 Oak Street, Eugene, OR 97401.

Amazon Wish List: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2XR33GS1ULV8Z?ref_=wl_share

On June 24, 2025, Lincoln County Circuit Court Presiding Judge Sheryl Bachart sentenced Angela Schafer (53-year-old) to 18 months in the Department of Corrections for sexually abusing a Taft High School student while Schafer was employed by the school district.  

Schafer was employed by the Lincoln County School District in 2022 as a Health Services Advocate serving at Taft High School, Lincoln City, Oregon. In September 2024, Lincoln City Police Department (LCPD) initiated an investigation after allegations surfaced regarding an inappropriate relationship between Schafer and a student earlier that year. After an extensive investigation by Detective Bud Lane (LCPD), Schafer was officially indicted by the Lincoln County Grand Jury in November 2024.

On June 24, 2025, Schafer entered a guilty plea to one count of Rape in the Third Degree for knowingly engaging in sexual intercourse with a child under the age of sixteen and one count of Furnishing Alcohol to a Minor. Under Oregon sentencing guidelines, Schafer was initially subject to a probationary sentence given her lack of criminal history. However, given the vulnerability of the victim and Schafer’s position of power or trust over the victim, the State planned to seek a prison sentence through enhancement factors after trial.

Ultimately, through plea negotiations, Schafer stipulated to an 18-month prison sentence with an agreement that Judge Bachart would decide whether the prison sentence would be served immediately or held in abeyance while Schafer was supervised locally in the community. At sentencing, DA Wallace advocated for Schafer to be sentenced to an upfront 18-month prison sentence given the role Schafer’s employment played in her crimes and the particular vulnerability of the victim. Defense argued that Schafer should be placed on probation given the viable treatment options in the community.  

Prior to sentencing Schafer, Judge Bachart stated, “You never know who is capable of doing this; it can be anybody. Some people are put in positions with greater access to children and you used your position, the access you had to this child, and his vulnerability to sexually abuse him – the aggravating factors are significant.” Judge Bachart sentenced Schafer to 18 months prison and Schafer was taken into custody and began serving her sentence today. Schafer will also be required to register as a sex offender, complete an alcohol and drug treatment program, and pay a $8,500 fine.

This case was prosecuted by District Attorney Jenna Wallace.

UMATILLA, Ore. – Deep in the sandy terrain of Rees Training Center, a small owl with bright yellow eyes peers from an artificial burrow that has become home to the most successful burrowing owl colony in the United States.

What began as a desperate conservation effort in 2008 has transformed into a remarkable success story, with the Oregon National Guard training installation now hosting more than 100 nesting pairs of the diminutive raptors – a dramatic increase from just five remaining pairs 17 years ago. Rees Training Center serves as the Oregon Military Department's premier training facility for the Oregon National Guard.

"This has become one of the most successful colonies in the United States right now," said Janet Johnson, Natural Resources Program Manager for the Oregon Military Department, during recent monitoring operations at the site. "Last year was a bumper crop. We had an amazing amount of forage, and the population doubled from 2023 to 2024."

The colony's success stems from an innovative partnership between the Oregon Military Department, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, and wildlife researchers led by conservationist David "DJ" Johnson of the Global Owl Project. When natural badger burrows disappeared due to decades of military development, the team developed an artificial burrow system using repurposed apple juice barrels from a local processing plant.

Each artificial burrow consists of two chambers – one for nesting and another for food storage – connected by irrigation tubing that serves as the entrance tunnel. The system is designed to last 10-15 years and can be relocated when military training requirements change.

"My number one job here is to ensure that the military can continue to train on this parcel into perpetuity," Johnson explained. "In order to do that, they need a healthy ecosystem without restrictions from endangered species or species of concern. Those tend to go together quite nicely."

The collaborative effort has attracted researchers from around the world to study the colony. Solai Le Fay, a master's student in raptor biology at Boise State University, is currently leading field research efforts and using 11 years of data for her thesis work.

"Every single chick and every single adult in 17 years has been banded," Johnson noted. "We know their ancestry, who was their father, who was their mother. We're getting six generations over time."

The program demonstrates how military installations can balance training missions with conservation goals. Lt. Col. Mark Timmons, incoming commander of the 249th Regional Training Institute at Rees Training Center, said his Soldiers frequently train in areas near the owl burrows.

"We walk that ground training, and they do tend to coexist quite well," Johnson said of the relationship between military operations and the owl population.

The research has contributed to nine different scientific discoveries about burrowing owl behavior and biology, with studies ranging from vocalization patterns to migration tracking using GPS transmitters.

Lindsay Chiono, Wildlife Habitat Ecologist for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, leads tribal conservation efforts on adjacent lands where about two-thirds of the colony's burrows are located.

"The tribal side and the Oregon Military Department biologists work together to manage the colony as a whole," Johnson said. "The tribe is doing a tremendous amount of effort on their end and has really dedicated a lot of resources."

The colony's success has made it a model for other military installations across the Department of Defense, proving that conservation and military readiness can advance hand-in-hand.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   -30-

Released B-Roll Video: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/967966/oregon-national-guards-rees-training-center-hosts-nations-most-successful-burrowing-owl-colony

Released Photos:

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A visitor holds a burrowing owl chick during monitoring and banding operations at Rees Training Center, Oregon, June 11, 2025. The installation hosts the most successful burrowing owl colony in the United States, with over 100 nesting pairs supported through artificial burrow systems developed through a collaborative conservation effort between the Oregon Military Department and the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

250611-Z-ZJ128-1002

Solai Le Fay, a master's student in raptor biology at Boise State University, holds an adult burrowing owl during monitoring and banding operations at Rees Training Center, Oregon, June 11, 2025. Le Fay is leading field research efforts for the colony and using 11 years of data for her thesis work as part of the ongoing collaborative conservation effort between the Oregon Military Department and the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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Three burrowing owl chicks sit in a collection bucket during monitoring and banding operations at Rees Training Center, Oregon, June 11, 2025. Researchers use the buckets to safely hold the young owls while conducting measurements, health assessments, and banding procedures as part of the ongoing conservation program that has grown the colony from four pairs in 2008 to over 100 nesting pairs today. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

250611-Z-ZJ128-1004

Janet Johnson, Natural Resources Program Manager for the Oregon Military Department, places a burrowing owl on a digital field scale during monitoring operations at Rees Training Center, Oregon, June 11, 2025. Weight measurements are part of the comprehensive data collection that tracks the health and development of the owls in what has become the most successful burrowing owl colony in the United States. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

250611-Z-ZJ128-1005

Christine Clyne sets a burrowing owl chick on the ground before it returns to its artificial burrow through the irrigation tubing entrance at Rees Training Center, Oregon, June 11, 2025. The artificial burrow system, constructed from repurposed juice barrels and irrigation tubing, has enabled the colony to grow from four remaining pairs in 2008 to become the most successful burrowing owl conservation program in the United States. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

ROWENA, Ore. — June 24, 2025 — On June 18, 2025, Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) Director Erin McMahon visited Wasco County to meet with local officials and community members impacted by the Rowena Fire. The visit included a tour of fire-damaged areas and a stop at the Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC), where displaced residents are receiving critical recovery support.

In addition to the tour, Director McMahon met with Wasco County Emergency Manager Sheridan McClellan to discuss local needs and ongoing coordination efforts. She also joined a fire impact tour led by Mid-Columbia Fire and Rescue Fire Chief David Jensen, where she witnessed firsthand the destruction caused by the Rowena Fire, including destroyed homes, scorched landscapes and community infrastructure loss.

To date, the Rowena Fire has destroyed more than 50 residences, nearly 91 nonresidential commercial properties, and 18 additional minor structures. Director McMahon heard powerful stories from evacuees who shared their experiences of evacuation and loss.

“I was deeply impressed by the coordination and tireless efforts of our first responders, local officials and state agency partners who are working around the clock to support the community impacted by the Rowena Fire. The level of dedication and collaboration on display in Wasco County is a true testament to Oregon’s emergency response system. Hearing stories of how quickly people were able to evacuate thanks to timely OR-Alert notifications was a powerful reminder of how critical preparedness and communication are during an emergency.”

The Oregon Department of Forestry and the Oregon State Fire Marshal have been key partners in providing firefighting support. OEM extends its deepest gratitude to all firefighters, first responders, emergency personnel, and recovery workers who have responded to this devastating event and continue to support the community in the days ahead.

A special thank you to Fire Chief David Jensen and Emergency Manager Sheridan McClellan for their time, leadership, and for providing the tour of the impacted areas. All Oregonians are encouraged to sign up for local emergency notifications at https://oralert.gov/ to receive alerts about evacuations, hazards, and other critical information in their area.

If you would like to support those affected by the Rowena Fire, please consider donating to relief and recovery efforts here: https://uwcg.ejoinme.org/RowenaFireReliefRecoveryFund

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It is the mission of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) to proactively develop emergency response, risk reduction and disaster recovery programs to better serve Oregonians during times of disaster. OEM prioritizes an equitable and inclusive culture of preparedness that empowers all Oregonians to thrive in times in crisis. The agency leads collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure the capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters. For more information about the OEM, visit oregon.gov/oem.

You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille, or a format you prefer. For assistance, email licInfo@oem.oregon.gov" rel="noopener" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(59, 116, 181);" target="_blank" title="Email OEM Public Affairs">OEM_PublicInfo@oem.oregon.gov. We accept all relay calls, or you can dial 711. 

JCSO Case 25-3233

PROSPECT, Ore. – Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies arrested a Prospect man for intentionally starting a fire Wednesday, June 18 in the Red Blanket Road area east of Prospect. JCSO deputies located the man Thursday, June 19 in the 44000 block of Highway 62 in Prospect. The suspect barricaded briefly in a house before deputies arrested him without incident at 12:32 PM. 

The suspect, Allen Lee Bicknell, 51, a Prospect area transient, is charged with first-degree arson and reckless burning. A Jackson County Grand Jury indicted Bicknell on all charges the morning of Tuesday, June 24. He is lodged in the Jackson County Jail. 

Wednesday at 1:57 PM, Oregon Department of Forestry firefighters responded to a fire on Red Blanket Road east of Prospect. During an aggressive initial attack, an ODF firefighter reported observing a suspect, later identified as Bicknell, in the area of the fire acting in a suspicious manner, but he fled on foot. Firefighters reported the sighting to JCSO and were able to stop the original fire at an estimated two acres. JCSO deputies responded to continue the investigation while also assisting in the firefighting efforts. 

This case is open and ongoing with deputies and ODF investigating. There is no further information available for release at this time.

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Road Name: Laura Street

Location: Springfield

Closure Area: From near the north end toward the south to the section of road adjacent to 2095 Laura Street (milepost 0.120 to milepost 0.339)

• Southbound Laura Street will be closed to through traffic. Access from Lindale Drive to Laura Street will be closed as well.
• Laura Street will remain open for northbound traffic.

Dates and Times: 24/7 now through approximately August 31, 2025

Reason for Closure: Utility relocations, storm system upgrades, sidewalks and concrete paving.

Alternate Routes: Southbound traffic should use Pioneer Parkway.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 24, 2025

NOTICE OF HOLIDAY CLOSURE

Observance of Independence Day Holiday

Friday, July 4, 2025

(Douglas County, Ore.) Douglas County Commissioners Tim Freeman, Tom Kress, and Chris Boice would like to remind citizens that government offices in the Douglas County Courthouse, 1036 SE Douglas Avenue in Roseburg, Oregon, as well as the Douglas County Justice Building, Douglas County Courthouse Annex in Reedsport, Douglas County Fairgrounds Office, Douglas County Landfill and Transfer Sites, and All External Douglas County Government Offices will be closed to the public on Friday, July 4, 2025, in observance of the American Independence Day Holiday.

Even when Douglas County government offices are closed, many officials and public employees are still working on special, routine or emergency projects such as our Douglas County Board of Commissioners, Sheriff’s Office, Juvenile Department, Public Works Department, Emergency Management Department, Parks Department, and Salmon Harbor Marina.  In addition, some County Departments may have limited hours or will be lightly staffed on Thursday, July 3, 2025.  Please call ahead of your visit to see if the Department has staff available to assist you with your needs.  You can call (541) 672-3311 for general inquiries and Department extensions.  You can also visit our website at douglascountyor.gov/ to access the direct contact information for each County Department.   

Please note a few other closures and openings for the Fourth of July Holiday:

• The Douglas County Museum of History and Natural History in Roseburg and the Umpqua River Lighthouse Museum in Winchester Bay will be open for visitors on Friday, July 4, 2025, for normal business hours. For more information visit umpquavalleymuseums.org/.
• Douglas County Solid Waste Department: All offices and County operated transfer sites, as well as the landfill will be closed on Friday, July 4, 2025.  They will resume services on the next scheduled regular workday.  For more information visit douglascountyor.gov/396/Solid-Waste.  
• Douglas County Senior Services Department: Douglas County Bistro Sixty Senior Dining Sites and Douglas County Meals on Wheels programs will be closed on Friday, July 4, 2025.  Meals on Wheels delivery customers are asked to request additional meals on their Thursday, July 3, 2025, deliveries to help hold them over until the next regularly scheduled meal delivery.  Senior Dining Site and Meals on Wheels programs will resume service on Tuesday, July 8, 2025.  For more information call Douglas County Senior Services at (541) 440-3677.
• Douglas County Parks Department: All County operated Parks, Campgrounds and Boat Ramps will be open and accessible to the public during the Fourth of July holiday.  For reservation information at Douglas County operated campgrounds, please call (541) 957-7001 or go online to douglascountyor.gov/802/Parks. 
• Salmon Harbor Marina and the Winchester Bay RV Park will continue to be open and accessible to the public.  For harbor or reservation information at Salmon Harbor, please call (541) 271-3407 or go online to douglascountyor.gov/448/Salmon-Harbor-Marina.  As a reminder, the Salmon Harbor Marina Office will be closed on Friday, July 4, 2025.
• Even though the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office lobby entrance will be closed on Friday, July 4, 2025, our Sheriff’s Deputies, 911 communications and DCSO staff will continue to provide law enforcement protection and emergency assistance for our residents.  If you have an emergency, call 9-1-1.  If you need to reach the Douglas County 911 Dispatch Center for a non-emergency, please call (541) 440-4471. 

            This year we celebrate the 249^th Fourth of July, also known as American Independence Day.  It has been a federal holiday in the United States since 1941, but the tradition of Independence Day celebrations goes back to the 18th century with the American Revolution. On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence, and two days later delegates from the 13 colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence, the historic document drafted by Thomas Jefferson. From 1776 to the present day, July 4th has been celebrated as the birth of American independence, with typical festivities ranging from fireworks, parades, and concerts to more casual family gatherings and barbecues. 

The Douglas County Board of Commissioners would like to wish everyone a safe, happy, and healthy Fourth of July holiday.  They encourage citizens to safely and responsibly participate in Independence Day celebrations that honor our great nation, celebrate our freedoms, and demonstrate patriotism for the land that we love.  Happy Birthday, America!

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Media Contact:     Tamara Howell, Douglas County 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

SALEM, Ore. — June 24, 2025 — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS) Bulletin warning of a heightened threat environment in the United States through September 22, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. ET, due to geopolitical tensions linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran.
 

As Oregon’s Homeland Security Advisor, Director Erin McMahon, of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), encourages Oregonians to stay informed, report suspicious activity, and understand the evolving threat landscape.

According to the DHS bulletin, pro-Iranian cyber actors and extremist sympathizers may exploit current tensions to conduct cyberattacks, spread violent rhetoric, or attempt physical acts of violence targeting U.S. interests, including government officials, Jewish or pro-Israel communities, and critical infrastructure.
 

“We all have a role in keeping our communities safe,” said Director McMahon. “Awareness, vigilance, and timely reporting of suspicious activity are key to preventing threats from escalating into harm.”

Key Concerns Highlighted in the NTAS Bulletin Include:

• Cyber-attacks by pro-Iranian hacktivists or state-affiliated actors
• Potential retaliatory violence following religious or political calls to action
• Risk of violence motivated by anti-Semitic or anti-Israel sentiment
• Threats to government personnel and critical infrastructure

The full DHS bulletin can be read at DHS.gov/Advisories

Report Suspicious Activity

If you observe suspicious behavior or threats of violence—online or in person—report it immediately to local law enforcement, the FBI. In emergencies, always call 911.

Report Cyber Incidents to CISA 

If you experience or suspect a cyber incident—such as phishing, ransomware, data breaches, or other malicious activity—you can report it directly to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). Prompt reporting helps protect critical infrastructure and allows federal partners to respond quickly to threats.

To report a cyber incident, visit: www.cisa.gov/reporting-cyber-incident

Stay Connected

OEM shares updates, preparedness tips, and situational awareness through the Oregon Newsroom and social media channels. Visit: OEM Newsroom

# # #

It is the mission of Oregon Emergency Management to proactively develop emergency response, risk reduction and disaster recovery programs to better serve Oregonians during times of disaster. OEM prioritizes an equitable and inclusive culture of preparedness that empowers all Oregonians to thrive in times in crisis. The agency leads collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure the capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters. For more information about the OEM, visit oregon.gov/oem.

You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille, or a format you prefer. For assistance, email licInfo@oem.oregon.gov" rel="noopener" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(59, 116, 181);" target="_blank" title="Email OEM Public Affairs">OEM_PublicInfo@oem.oregon.gov. We accept all relay calls, or you can dial 711. 

2025 Board on Public Safety Standards & Training

 and Policy Committee

Open Vacancy – Recruitments

The Board on Public Safety Standards & Training (BPSST) and established Policy Committees have open vacancies looking to be filled before the end of the year! The current vacancies are as follows:

BPSST: All Board applications must be submitted through Workday.com by July 7, 2025.

• One member who is a sheriff recommended to the Governor by the Oregon State Sheriffs’ Association
• One member representing Non-Management Law Enforcement 
• One member who is a representative of the collective bargaining unit that represents the largest number of individual workers in the DOC
• One member of the Oregon State Fire Fighters Council recommended to the Governor by the executive body of the council
• Public Member

Policy Committees: All Policy Committee applications must be submitted by June 20, 2025.

Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee:

• One person representing the retail industry
• One person representing persons who monitor alarms
• One person who is a private investigator licensed under ORS 703.430, and is recommended by the Oregon State Bar (will also serve on the PI Sub-Committee upon appointment)
• One person representing the public who has never been employed or utilized as a private security provider or investigator

Telecommunications Policy Committee:

• One person representing recommended by and representing the Oregon State Police

Private Investigator Subcommittee:

• Currently licensed private investigator

To inquire about a vacancy, please visit Department of Public Safety Standards & Training : Board on Public Safety Standards & Training and Policy Committees : Boards and Committees : State of Oregon.

If interested in applying for a Policy Committee position, please complete and submit the Policy Committee Interest Form found under the ‘Board and Committee Resources’ section of the website listed above.

If interested in applying for a BPSST position, please complete the online application at Workday Board and Commission Opportunities. (Please note that an account may need to be created if not already in Workday)

For further information regarding the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training or its respective Policy Committees, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov.

Thank you,

DPSST Board & Committees Staff

LANE COUNTY, Ore. (June 24, 2025) — On Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at about 3:41 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a four-vehicle crash on Highway 99 in Lane County. OSP later received notification that one of the vehicle operators had died from injuries sustained in the crash.

The preliminary investigation indicated a white Chevrolet Silverado dually pickup, operated by Sheldon Bryce Moore (46) of Creswell, was traveling southbound on Highway 99 near milepost 10 when it slowed to negotiate a turn. A southbound blue Mazda Tribute, operated by Joseph M. Peters (35) of Cottage Grove, rear-ended a white Chevrolet Tahoe, operated by Tenielle Lynette Long-Piccolo (35) of Cottage Grove, which was directly behind the Chevrolet Silverado. The Mazda then veered into the northbound lane and collided with a white Ford F-350 pickup, operated by Marcelo Analco Garcia (34) of Eugene, which was towing a dump trailer loaded with dirt and rocks.

The operator of the Mazda (Peters) was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries. OSP was later notified that Peters died from his injuries on June 20, 2025.

The operator of the Chevrolet Tahoe (Long-Piccolo), a female juvenile (14), and a second female juvenile (9) were transported to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The operator of the Ford F-350 (Analco Garcia) had reported minor injuries but was not transported.

The operator of the Chevrolet Silverado (Moore) was not injured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Cottage Grove Police Department and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
 

# # #

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

Salem, Ore. – The Oregon State Fire Marshal and the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) are teaming up for a live fire demonstration to show how defensible space and home hardening can protect your home and property during a wildfire. The demonstration will compare fire behavior between two homes, one that is prepared for wildfire resilience and one that is not.

You'll see firsthand how simple steps can make a big difference, especially when it comes to stopping embers, which are the number one cause of homes catching on fire during wildfires. This live burn will highlight the importance of creating and maintaining a five-foot area free of things that can burn around a home.

Those interested in attending, please RSVP here.

What:

The Oregon State Fire Marshal and IBHS wildfire researchers will provide practical tips Oregonians can use to improve their home's chance of surviving a wildfire. These include creating a noncombustible zone in the first five feet, using fire-resistant building materials, and preparing the property to be ready for wildfire. During the demonstration, experts will narrate and show the progression, from embers landing to total loss of the building that isn’t prepared for wildfire. They will also explain why certain materials and landscaping choices, based on IBHS’s Wildfire Prepared Home program, make a difference.

Who:

• Oregon State Fire Marshal: Mariana Ruiz-Temple, state fire marshal
• Department of Consumer & Business Services: TK Keen, interim insurance commissioner
• Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS): Roy Wright, CEO
• Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS): Dr. Anne Cope, chief engineer
• Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS): Steve Hawks, senior director for wildfire

When:

Wednesday, June 25, 2025, 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Where:

Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) 
4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, OR 97317

Details:

Closed-toe shoes are required. No weapons, including pocketknives, are allowed in DPSST’s training areas. No check-in is required when entering DPSST. Please proceed straight into the Hall of Heroes from the main lobby. The burn location is roughly 1/3 of a mile (10-minute walk) from the Hall of Heroes. There will be a van available for those who need it.

Those interested in attending, please RSVP here.

SALEM, Ore. – The State Land Board will meet virtually in executive session on Tuesday, June 24 at 4:30 p.m. to consider employment of the Department of State Lands Director, as authorized by ORS 192.660(2)(a).
 

During a future meeting open to the public, the Land Board will consider appointing a Director and accept comment. This meeting will be scheduled and noticed at a later date.

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

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www.oregon.gov/dsl

(CASCADE LOCKS, Ore.) – Oregon Wildlife Foundation (OWF) and the Fish & Wildlife Division of the Oregon State Police (OSP) are giving new meaning to the phrase “dog days of summer'' by inviting you to meet the OSP Wildlife Conservation K-9 teams between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Sunday, June 29, at the OWF Gift Shop at Bonneville Fish Hatchery in the Columbia River Gorge.

Visitors will meet Senior Trooper Josh Wolcott and his K-9 partner Buck and Trooper Shae Ross and his K-9 partner, Scout. This is an opportunity to meet the teams and learn more about how they fight poaching in Oregon. While there, consider having a Buck and Scout Drink Special and or picking up a Buck or a Scout stuffie. All donations at checkout during the month of July are dedicated to the Foundation’s OSP Conservation K-9 Team Fund. 

OWF, in partnership with OSP, launched Oregon’s first Wildlife Conservation K-9 team in 2019. Senior Trooper Wolcott and Buck have conducted numerous poaching investigations and logged hundreds of hours in the field since the program’s beginning. Senior Trooper Wolcott and Buck work from OSP’s Springfield Area Command but have worked multiple regions in Oregon.

The effectiveness of the first K-9 team led OSP leadership to approve a second team in January of 2023. The newest team works from OSP Area Command in Bend but have also been deployed to other regions at various times. OWF and its donors financed most of the costs of the program’s first two teams. Ongoing K-9 expenses, primarily veterinary care, are funded by donations from the public to the OSP Conservation K-9 Team Fund. To learn more or to make a supporting donation, visit the Team webpage at https://myowf.org/osp-conservation-k9-team.

Poaching in Oregon

Oregon and all other states adhere to the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, which operates on seven interdependent  principles, including ‘wildlife resources are conserved and held in trust for all citizens’ and ‘wildlife may only be killed for a legitimate, non-frivolous purpose.’ Our wildlife laws, including those that make poaching illegal, are rooted in this model of conservation.

Poaching is the illegal taking of birds, wildlife and fish. Poaching also includes habitat destruction. 

According to the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife’s (ODFW) Stop Poaching webpage, “Poaching can take many forms. Shooting a raptor. Keeping fish out of season. Sharing tags. Exceeding bag limits. People working the system to get resident licenses or tags when they aren’t residents are also poaching.”

ODFW partners with OSP to enforce our wildlife laws. Only the states of Oregon and Alaska work in this way; all other state wildlife agencies employ their own game wardens. The OSP Wildlife Conservation K-9 teams are an essential tool in our fight against poaching. Hundreds of poached animals and fish are recovered each year, which represents only a fraction of the total lost to poaching in Oregon.

Fish and wildlife managers and law enforcement officials rely on assistance from the public to report poaching and suspicious activities. To report crimes against fish, wildlife or habitat, please use the Turn In Poachers (TIP) line, 1-800-452-7888 or OSP (677) from a mobile phone. You can also provide information via email: TIP@osp.oregon.gov.

Oregon Wildlife Foundation

Oregon Wildlife Foundation is an apolitical operating charitable foundation dedicated to increasing private and public funding support for wildlife conservation projects in Oregon. Since their founding in 1981, OWF has directed tens of millions of dollars in private and public support to a broad range of projects throughout Oregon. For more information visit www.myowf.org.

###

Interviews:  Contact OWF Executive Director Tim Greseth at tim@myowf.org or External Communications Manager Mo Montgomery at mo@myowf.org

For questions about poaching and poaching statistics, we recommend contacting the following individuals: 

Captain Kyle Kennedy

Public Information Officer,

Oregon State Police

Email: OSP.OSPPIO@osp.oregon.gov

Yvonne Shaw

Stop Poaching Campaign Coordinator

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife

(503) 947-6037 office / (503)383-6859 mobile

Email:Yvonne.L.SHAW@odfw.oregon.gov

SALEM, Oregon— Oregon State Parks welcomes Fourth of July celebrations, but fireworks and explosives are strictly prohibited within Oregon State Parks and the entire ocean shore.

Park staff encourage visitors to celebrate responsibly this Fourth of July and leave fireworks at home when visiting Oregon State Parks and Oregon beaches. These items pose a significant danger to visitors, wildlife, structures and the natural landscape particularly in crowded areas where high winds and flammable vegetation increase the inherent risks of fireworks. Parks are often in remote locations that are challenging to evacuate and might take emergency responders time to reach.

The wildfire season has already begun in Oregon, and three state parks have been closed or evacuated due to wildfires nearby in the last few weeks. Fireworks and explosives would increase the risk of additional fires.

Fireworks also impact sensitive habitat like federally protected Western snowy plover nesting grounds and other coastal birds and marine wildlife.

“The lights and noise from fireworks can cause birds and other wildlife to startle and flee in panic. On the coast this can result in the abandonment of nests, leaving eggs or young vulnerable to predators like crows, ravens or gulls,” said Dawn Harris, visitor services manager with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

“Litter from firecrackers, bottle rockets and other explosives spread debris on beaches, which can be choking hazards for wildlife and may be toxic if ingested.”

After last year’s Fourth of July celebrations, volunteers collected nearly 1,000 pounds of trash from the beaches around Lincoln City alone. Fireworks debris was the third most collected item. Another 640 pounds of trash was collected in barrels.

“That debris directly impacts the ecological resilience of our beaches, oceans and wildlife,” said Laurel Hillman, ocean shore resource coordinator at Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

“We ask that visitors respect the restrictions on fireworks and explosives to protect Oregon State Parks and the ocean shore.”

While education remains the primary focus for rule enforcement at Oregon State Parks, enforcement rangers do have the authority to issue Class A violations, which carry a presumptive fine of up to $400, for significant or repeated violations of park rules. Staff at Oregon State Parks ask that visitors enjoy the holiday responsibly and leave fireworks and explosives at home.

For events at Oregon State Parks including several Fourth of July celebrations, find the event calendar at https://stateparks.oregon.gov. We also encourage visitors to know before they go when it comes to campfire restrictions and any closures during this wildfire season. Learn more on our website.

ROSEBURG, OR – Multiple H.O.P.E. Drug Court graduate phase participants schedule car washes to raise money for their community projects.

The Douglas County H.O.P.E. Drug Court program is preparing for their 110^th graduation on August 26, 2025 at 5:15 p.m. at the Douglas County Fairgrounds in the Cascade Hall building.  Four of the graduate phase participants are taking advantage of the summer weather by holding car washes to benefit each of their community projects. 

The first scheduled car wash will be on June 28 and 29 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Abby’s Legendary Pizza located at 1661 NE Stephens Street in Roseburg.  This event benefits the Connecting Point mobile navigation program and the Adapt Opioid Treatment Program to collect items to make wound care kits. 

The second scheduled car wash will be on July 4 and 5 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at NAPA Auto Parts located at 137 W B Avenue in Drain.  This event benefits Adapts Crossroads inpatient treatment program where individuals are willing to begin a recovery path from substance abuse and is collecting personal hygiene items, shower shoes, and hiking/tennis shoes. 

The third scheduled car wash will be on July 12 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Abby’s Legendary Pizza located at 1661 NE Stephens Street in Roseburg.  This event benefits the Douglas County Juvenile Detention Center and the River Rock and Rising Light inpatient programs for youth to collect sporting equipment items, board games, card games, hiking shoes, and swimwear.

The fourth scheduled car wash will also be on July 12 from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Sherm’s Thunderbird located at 2333 NW Stewart Parkway in Rosburg.  This event benefits the Child Welfare Program to collect children games, books, toys, and other small items to help during visits between parent(s) and child(ren) when going through the reunification process.

Douglas County H.O.P.E. Drug Court, with Honorable Judge Robert B. Johnson, operates under the jurisdiction of Douglas County Circuit Court. The structure is designed to reduce recidivism, address substance use disorders, and provide the opportunity to look beyond the criminal act to consider the larger context of their life and future.  Graduate Community projects take place during the final phase of the program and are a time for participants to show their personal growth, societal development, and an internal shift that pushes them to reach a higher potential.

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.  

NEHALEM BAY, Oregon— Nehalem Bay State Park will reopen most of its campground July 1 after a seven-month construction closure. Reservations will be available starting 6 a.m. Friday.

“We’re excited to welcome visitors back to the campground in time for the Fourth of July holiday,’ said Park Manager Ben Cox.

The park closed reservations through December to create a buffer for any delays in construction. The day-use area opened in May, and most of the campground will open July 1, including Loops D, E, F, hiker/biker and horse camp. Loops A, B, C will open in about a month to give crews enough time to finish a roof and accessibility improvements for the yurts.

Visitors will notice a few of the improvements when they return to the campgrounds, but most of upgrades, like new electrical and water lines, enhance the visitor experience behind the scenes.

The work included:

• Upgrading water and electrical lines within the camp loops
• Adding a restroom/shower building to serve increasing visitation and provide more accessible facilities (adult changing table for visitors with disabilities)
• Adding an accessible restroom and accessible campsites to the horse camp.
• Adding hose bibs to horse camp sites.
• Renovating and adding additional accessible campsites and paths
• Repaving the main entrance road
• Adding traffic calming features to the park entry road from the Garey Street entrance to the airport intersection.
• Adding a new day-use fee station near the airport intersection

The work at Nehalem Bay was made possible by GO Bonds, a $50 million investment approved by the Oregon State Legislature in 2021. It’s one of nine projects at eight parks focused on building capacity, increasing accessibility and maintaining aging park infrastructure. Visit the Go Bond website for a complete list of projects.

NEHALEM BAY, Oregon— Nehalem Bay State Park will reopen most of its campground July 1 after a seven-month construction closure. Reservations will be available starting 6 a.m. Friday.

“We’re excited to welcome visitors back to the campground in time for the Fourth of July holiday,’ said Park Manager Ben Cox.

The park closed reservations through December to create a buffer for any delays in construction. The day-use area opened in May, and most of the campground will open July 1, including Loops D, E, F, hiker/biker and horse camp. Loops A, B, C will open in about a month to give crews enough time to finish a roof and accessibility improvements for the yurts.

Visitors will notice a few of the improvements when they return to the campgrounds, but most of upgrades, like new electrical and water lines, enhance the visitor experience behind the scenes.

The work included:

• Upgrading water and electrical lines within the camp loops
• Adding a restroom/shower building to serve increasing visitation and provide more accessible facilities (adult changing table for visitors with disabilities)
• Adding an accessible restroom and accessible campsites to the horse camp.
• Adding hose bibs to horse camp sites.
• Renovating and adding additional accessible campsites and paths
• Repaving the main entrance road
• Adding traffic calming features to the park entry road from the Garey Street entrance to the airport intersection.
• Adding a new day-use fee station near the airport intersection

The work at Nehalem Bay was made possible by GO Bonds, a $50 million investment approved by the Oregon State Legislature in 2021. It’s one of nine projects at eight parks focused on building capacity, increasing accessibility and maintaining aging park infrastructure. Visit the Go Bond website for a complete list of projects.

SALEM, Ore. – With fireworks sales beginning today, the Oregon State Fire Marshal is reminding people to celebrate the Fourth of July responsibly and legally. The 2025 fireworks retail sales season in Oregon runs from June 23 through July 6, and the agency’s message is clear: “Keep it legal. Keep it safe.” 

As Oregonians make plans for the holiday, they’re urged to check local rules and restrictions on both the sale and use of fireworks—whether celebrating at home or traveling.

“Before lighting any fireworks, make sure you know what’s allowed where you are,” Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “We want everyone to enjoy the holiday, but it’s critical to follow the law and avoid actions that could cause a fire or injury.”

Local governments across Oregon may set additional restrictions on the sale or use of fireworks, especially in areas at higher risk of wildfires. It’s the responsibility of those using fireworks to understand and follow local laws.

Fireworks safety and legal reminders

Consumer-legal fireworks may be purchased only from permitted retailers and stands. These fireworks may not be used on:

• Public lands and parks
• National parks and forests
• Bureau of Land Management lands
• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service properties
• Oregon state beaches, parks, and campgrounds
• Private lands protected by the Oregon Department of Forestry

To help reduce the risk of fire and injury, fire officials urge Oregonians to follow the four Bs of safe fireworks use:

• Be prepared: Have a bucket of water or a hose nearby.
• Be safe: Keep children and pets at a safe distance. Never use fireworks near dry grass or other flammable materials.
• Be responsible: Do not relight duds. Soak used fireworks in water before disposal.
• Be aware: Use only legal fireworks and only where they are allowed.

Illegal fireworks and consequences

Oregon law prohibits the possession, use, or sale of any fireworks that fly into the air, explode, or travel more than 12 feet horizontally on the ground without a permit from the state fire marshal. This includes items such as bottle rockets, Roman candles, and firecrackers.

Violations are a Class B misdemeanor, with a maximum fine of $2,500. Those who misuse fireworks or are found to be responsible for them causing damage may be held financially responsible for fire suppression and other costs. Parents can also be held liable for damage caused by their children.

Learn more

The Oregon State Fire Marshal offers resources on fireworks laws, retail sale permits, and safety tips on its fireworks webpage.

For a safe celebration this Fourth of July, know the law, check local restrictions, and always keep it legal and safe.

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. 

Salem, Oregon-The Electronic Government Portal Advisory Board (EPAB) will meet at 10 a.m. on Thursday, June 26, 2025. The meeting will take place remotely via the internet on Microsoft Teams and is open to the public. The agenda and handouts will be posted on the advisory board’s website: (https://www.oregon.gov/epab/Pages/Meeting-Documents.aspx)

What:        Meeting of the Electronic Government Portal Advisory Board 

When:       Thursday, June 26, 2025, 10 – 11:30 a.m.

Where:      Microsoft Teams (Click here to join the meeting)

Call Toll free: 1-503-446-4951 | Participant pin code: 714054549#

Who:         Members of the Electronic Government Portal Advisory Board 

The Legislature established the advisory board with enactment of ORS 276A.270-276. The board will advise the State Chief Information Officer (CIO) on key decisions and strategic choices about how the state CIO manages and operates the state’s web portal services.

The Oregon.gov portal is the connection point for citizens to access state agency services and information on the internet. The board provides oversight to specific websites, services and online payments where agencies choose to utilize the State Chief Information Officer’s E-Government Program as their service provider.

With the board’s advice, the state CIO wants to make the Oregon web portal services and their operation as effective as they can be for Oregonians to interact with state government. 

Firework sales can begin today, June 23, and the Oregon State Fire Marshal is hosting a press event to highlight fireworks safety, legal use, and the risk of wildfire and injury during the Fourth of July holiday. The event will include short remarks from the OSFM and partner agencies and a live fireworks demonstration explaining safe and unsafe use. 

WHEN: 
Monday, June 23, 10 a.m. 

WHERE: 
Oregon State Fire Marshal Headquarters, 3991 Fairview Industrial Dr SE, Salem, OR 97302 

WHO: 

• Mariana Ruiz-Temple, State Fire Marshal, Oregon State Fire Marshal 
• Mark Johnston, Assistant Chief Deputy, Oregon State Fire Marshal 
• Mike Blank, Detective, Oregon State Police Explosives Unit 
• Stefanie Knowlton, Public Information Officer, Oregon Parks & Recreation 
• TNT Fireworks 

WHY: 
With fire season underway, it’s more important than ever to follow firework laws and practice safe behavior. This event will offer visuals and interviews for media covering fireworks safety. 

VISUALS: 

• Live demonstration explaining the difference between safe and unsafe fireworks use 
• Fire officials and subject matter experts available for interviews