On August 3, 2026 at approximately 7:22pm the Linn County Sheriff’s Office and Oregon State Police responded to a report of a male driver shooting a handgun from his vehicle parked by the entrance to Riverbend Campground in Linn County. It was determined that the suspect, David Duncan, 69 years of age, of Oregon City, Oregon was traveling west on Hwy 20 and had crashed his vehicle and left the roadway. Witnesses reported his truck was on the side of the road and he had exited it and was acting erratically. He was seen urinating and then shooting his handgun across the highway.

Riverbend Campground and Camp Attitude, a free camp for youth who experience physical or cognitive disabilities, were put on lockdown immediately. Oregon State Police Troopers arrived on scene and attempted contact with the driver who was back inside his truck. Duncan then put the truck in drive to continue westbound on Hwy 20.  As the vehicle approached law enforcement, shots were fired by Oregon State Police Troopers.

Duncan sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to an area hospital for medical treatment. No bystanders or law enforcement were injured during the incident.

The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation and no additional information is being released at this time. Anyone who witnessed the incident or may have information regarding the events leading up to the incident is encouraged to contact Detective Sgt. Joe Clausen, Albany Police Department at 541-791-7680. Pursuant to Linn County Use of Deadly Force (SB 111) protocols the Albany Police Department is conducting an independent investigation of the officer involved shooting.  

                                                                                                                                    #   #   #

CORVALLIS, Ore. – On Monday, August 3, 2026, at approximately 3:30 p.m., the Benton County Sheriff’s Office responded to a fatal single-vehicle rollover crash on Highway 20, approximately seven miles west of Philomath.

A preliminary investigation indicates 55-year-old Eric Hillard Lee, of Corvallis, was traveling west in a black 1999 Honda Passport. For unknown reasons, the vehicle crossed the highway and rolled, coming to rest on the eastbound side.

Highway 20 was closed at Priest Road for approximately two hours while investigators processed the scene. Traffic was diverted onto Highway 223.

The Benton County Sheriff’s Office thanks the Philomath Police Department, Philomath Fire and Rescue, Corvallis Regional Communications Center, and the Oregon Department of Transportation for their assistance.

The Benton County Crash Team continues to investigate the cause of the crash.

Anyone who witnessed the crash or has additional information is asked to contact BCSO at entonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov">BentonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov or call their tip line at 541-753-8477. Please reference case No. 2026-01782.

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Supplies gathered will be divided and distributed between five rural schools including Alsea Elementary, Blodgett Elementary, Kings Valley Charter School, Monroe Elementary, and Muddy Creek Charter School, immediately following the event.

“Every student deserves to begin the school year with confidence and the tools they need to succeed,” said Sheriff Van Arsdall. “By working together, we can ease the burden on local families and show students that their community is invested in their future.”

Cash/check or supplies may be dropped off or mailed to the Benton County Sheriff's Office, attention: The Sheriff’s Foundation, 180 NW 5^th St, Corvallis, 97330. Please contact BCSO at entonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov">BentonCoSheriff@bentoncountyor.gov with any questions.
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ROSEBURG, Ore. - On Tuesday, August 4, 2026, shortly after 3:30 p.m., Douglas County 911 dispatchers received multiple calls reporting a person had gone underwater in the North Umpqua River at Whistlers Bend Park and had not resurfaced. 

Deputies along with emergency crews from multiple agencies responded to the scene. Initially, responders had limited information regarding the missing individual, but immediately began searching the area. 

During the search, responders located individuals downstream who had found the victim and were performing CPR on a rock in the river. Despite lifesaving efforts, the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene. 

The victim has been identified as 44-year-old Jeffrey Andrew Kulluson of Roseburg. His next of kin has been notified. 

The Douglas County Medical Examiner's Office is investigating the death. At this time, there is no indication of suspicious circumstances. 

The Douglas County Sheriff's Office extends its condolences to Mr. Kulluson's family and friends during this difficult time. 

Agencies assisting with the incident included the Douglas County Sheriff's Office, Douglas County Search and Rescue, Oregon State Police, Central Douglas Fire & Rescue, Umpqua Valley Ambulance, Glide Rural Fire Protection District, and ADAPT Mobile Crisis Team. 

This incident marks the fifth water related death in Douglas County this summer. The Sheriff's Office urges everyone recreating on local waterways to use caution, wear properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard approved lifejackets, and be aware of changing water conditions, currents, and cold water temperatures. 

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. - The Douglas County Sheriff's Office announces the retirement of K9 Trapper, a highly decorated English Springer Spaniel whose remarkable career spanned 11 years of dedicated law enforcement service. 

Born in Ireland in December 2013, Trapper was selected and trained for narcotics detection before beginning a career that would leave a lasting impact on public safety throughout Douglas County. During his distinguished service, Trapper worked alongside multiple local law enforcement agencies and served as a valued member of the Douglas Interagency Narcotics Team (DINT). 

Throughout his career, Trapper's exceptional detection abilities played a critical role in removing hundreds of pounds of illegal narcotics from our communities, including methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl. His reliable alerts assisted investigators during traffic stops, search warrants, and other criminal investigations, contributing to the disruption of drug trafficking operations and the arrest of hundreds of individuals involved in the distribution of controlled substances. 

"K9 Trapper exemplified the dedication, professionalism, and reliability expected of every member of law enforcement," said Corporal Matt Bird, Trapper's longtime handler. "His work undoubtedly made Douglas County a safer place, and it has been an honor to serve alongside him."

The Douglas County Sheriff's Office extends its sincere gratitude to K9 Trapper for his service, loyalty, and countless contributions to the safety of Douglas County. His legacy will continue to be remembered by the deputies, detectives, law enforcement partners, and community members he served. 

The Sheriff's Office also expresses its appreciation to the Friends of Umpqua Valley Police K9 Programs, Bailey's Veterinary Clinic, and all the other businesses that have supported K9 Trapper throughout his career and for their continued commitment to supporting law enforcement K9 teams throughout the county.

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. - The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office has concluded its participation in the July Speed Enforcement Campaign.  

Utilizing grant dollars administered by the Oregon Department of Transportation, a total of 35 hours of enhanced speed enforcement grant funding was utilized during the enforcement period. During the efforts, deputies made the following contacts:

• 40 Warnings for Speed
• 17 Citations for Speed
• 9 Citations for Driving While Suspended
• 2 Warnings for Equipment Violations
• 3 Citations for Equipment Violations
• 36 Warnings for “Other” Violations
• 13 Citations for “Other” Violations

"Speed limits are established to keep everyone safe," said Sheriff John Hanlin. "Our goal is not simply to write citations, but to encourage drivers to slow down, make responsible decisions behind the wheel, and help prevent crashes that can have lifelong consequences."

The Douglas County Sheriff's Office continues to encourage motorists to obey posted speed limits, eliminate distractions like cellphones, and always drive at a speed appropriate for traffic, weather, and roadway conditions. 

EUGENE, Ore. Eugene-Springfield Fire responded to a fourth-floor apartment fire near downtown Eugene on Saturday evening, August 1.

Fire crews were initially dispatched to an automatic fire alarm just before 7:30 p.m. at an apartment building located at 599 E. Broadway. Immediately after the fire alarm activated, multiple callers contacted Central Lane 911 to report smoke in the building. Based on those reports, dispatchers upgraded the response from an automatic fire alarm to a full first-alarm high life hazard assignment before firefighters arrived.

A first-alarm high life hazard response brings five fire engines, two ladder trucks, two chief officers, and two ambulances to the scene.

Upon arrival, firefighters found numerous residents evacuating the building and received reports of a possible burn victim on the fourth floor. Crews entered the structure while the fire alarm was sounding and encountered moderate smoke conditions on the fourth floor. Firefighters located and contained the fire to a single apartment.

One occupant sustained serious burn injuries and was transported to a local hospital. Five additional residents were evaluated for possible smoke inhalation but ultimately declined transport. Two other individuals experienced unrelated medical issues while firefighters were on scene; both were evaluated, their conditions resolved, and neither required transport.

Due to the number of residents in the building, the smoke conditions, and the number of patients requiring evaluation, incident commanders requested a second alarm, bringing additional firefighters and ambulances to the scene.

The building’s automatic fire sprinkler system helped contain the fire to the apartment of origin while firefighters completed extinguishment and addressed smoke and water impacts throughout the building.

The fire damaged one apartment unit. The building, known as Bridges on Broadway, is a Homes for Good property. Homes for Good staff are assisting displaced residents with temporary housing.

At this time, no additional injuries have been reported, and no firefighters or other emergency responders were injured. The condition of the burn victim is currently unknown.

In total, the response included 11 fire companies, three chief officers, four ambulances, one support unit, one EMS officer, and deputy fire marshals. The incident required more than 50% of Eugene-Springfield Fire’s on-duty resources, which is common for significant emergencies involving large, high life hazard buildings.

While crews remained committed to the incident, fire crews from across Eugene Springfield repositioned throughout the community to maintain timely emergency response coverage for concurrent incidents.

Eugene, OR. Eugene Springfield Fire responded to a structure fire that damaged a home, shed and power pole late Friday night. Just after 11:30 PM on Jujly 31st ESF received multiple calls reporting fire in a detached shed extending to a house with an electrical transformer blown in the backyard in the 2100 block of Marlow Ln. 

Ladder 6 from the Sheldon station responded as part of a full first alarm fire response. Ladder 6 quickly located the fire in the rear shed of the reported address that had extended to a second residential structure on Marlow Ln.  Fire crews performed a primary search of both buildings, located fire, extinguished, then overhauled both of the structures.  There were no injuries reported.

ESF Deputy Fire Marshals are on scene investigating the cause, and Red Cross is in contact with affected residents. In total, 4 engines, 1 ladder truck, 2 chiefs , an ambulance, Logistics Support, EMS supervisor, and two Deputy Fire Marshalls responded.

JCSO Case 26-4017

WHITE CITY, Ore. —Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies responded to a reported grass fire last night in the 8000 block of Highway 62 in White City. Jackson County Fire District 3 and Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) firefighters quickly extinguished the fire before it got out of control and deputies detained a juvenile suspect on scene.

Tuesday, August 4 at 7:22 PM, alert motorists on Highway 62 spotted flames and immediately called ECSO Dispatch 911. Witnesses saw an individual standing near the field watching the fire grow. Upon arrival, deputies located a burned section of grass measuring approximately 40 x 40 feet and contacted a juvenile male standing near the scene.

During the initial contact, the juvenile admitted to starting the fire, and deputies recovered matches from his possession. Deputies also received information the youth was involved in a similar brush fire incident the previous day. He was immediately taken into custody without incident. Due to the suspect’s age, his identity will not be released.  

Thanks to the rapid response by FD3 and ODF personnel, the blaze was quickly contained before it could spread to adjacent commercial buildings or nearby residential neighborhoods.

The investigation remains ongoing, and the case is being referred to the Jackson County Juvenile Department for appropriate criminal charges, including arson.

This News Release is edited due to road block moving.
 

Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies and the Serious Traffic Accident Reconstruction (STAR) Team are investigating a fatal motor vehicle crash on Old Stage Road near Westover Boulevard. 

Old Stage Road is closed at Hillside Drive to Sylvia Road while the STAR Team investigates the cause of the crash.

The STAR Team consists of investigators from Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Medford Police Department. There is no further information available for release at this time.

-Update-

Upon receiving formal notification of the internal investigation to be completed in accordance with Sheriff’s Office general orders and the contractual labor agreement, Dylan Ford resigned from his employment. 

LCSO will still complete the internal labor investigation and submit the completed findings to the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training for board review of his corrections certification.

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On June 29^th, 2026 It was reported to the Lane County Sheriff’s Office that Deputy Dylan Ford was believed to be having an inappropriate online relationship with a minor outside of the country.  LCSO immediately contacted an outside agency so that an independent investigation could be conducted into the allegation.

On July 28^th, 2026, outside agency investigators arrested the involved employee, Dylan Ford.  Ford has been placed on unpaid administrative leave pending conclusion of the criminal investigation.  He has been employed with LCSO for approximately 7 ½ years.

The Lane County Sheriff’s Office does not have additional details available at this time.  Anyone with information about the case is asked to contact the Federal Bureau of Investigation at 1-800-CALL FBI (1-800-225-5324).

The Lane County Sheriff’s Office takes allegations such as these very seriously and is cooperating fully with this investigation.  We would like to thank the Linn County Sheriff’s Office and Federal Bureau of Investigation for their assistance in this investigation.

Lebanon, Or. – August 4, 2026 – Lebanon Fire District experienced an exceptionally busy four-hour period Tuesday evening, responding to multiple simultaneous emergencies that temporarily committed all available personnel and apparatus.

The busy stretch began around 4:00 p.m. when a Lebanon Fire District ambulance transferred a patient from a hospital in Lebanon to one in Corvallis. While that ambulance was out of the district, firefighters responded to an odor investigation on Island Inn Drive and three separate medical emergencies. With all Lebanon ambulances committed, the Albany Fire Department responded under mutual aid and transported one patient to the hospital.

At approximately 5:45 p.m., crews were dispatched to a first-alarm water assist after a woman floating the South Santiam River on an inner tube was reported significantly overdue for arriving at Gill's Landing. The incident required all available Lebanon Fire District apparatus, career personnel, and volunteer firefighters.

Firefighters immediately launched the district's drone to search the river corridor from the air while another team deployed a rescue raft upstream to search the waterway. The Linn County Sheriff's Office responded with its rescue watercraft, personnel, and drone to assist with the extensive search effort.

While the water rescue operation was underway, another call developed when Lebanon Fire District received an emergent interfacility transfer to Corvallis. Fortunately, the ambulance that had completed the earlier transfer had just returned to the district and was immediately dispatched again. An emergent transfer is one in which physicians determine a patient requires rapid transport to a higher level of care, often with the ambulance transporting code 3 using lights and sirens.

Before the water rescue concluded, two additional medical emergencies were dispatched. One patient was transported by Sweet Home Fire and Ambulance District under mutual aid, while Lebanon Fire District crews responded to a serious injury motor vehicle crash.

Approximately 2½ hours after the initial water rescue call, the incident concluded with the best possible outcome when the missing woman was located safe at a friend's residence.

Lebanon Fire District would like to thank our mutual aid partners, the Albany Fire Department and Sweet Home Fire and Ambulance District, for providing ambulance coverage during this exceptionally busy period. We also extend our appreciation to the Linn County Sheriff's Office for providing personnel, a rescue watercraft, and drone resources that were instrumental in the search effort.

As river recreation continues throughout the summer, Lebanon Fire District reminds everyone to develop a clear plan before entering the river. Always know where you will enter and exit, communicate those plans with family or friends, and notify others immediately if those plans change. Most importantly, wear a properly fitted life jacket whenever you are on the water.

To help keep river users safe, Lebanon Fire District provides three life jacket loaner stations- two located at Waterloo Park and one at Gill's Landing- where visitors can borrow life jackets at no cost before heading onto the river. Photo credit goes to Corbin Henderson. 

On July 31, 2026, around 1:00 AM, a concerned citizen witnessed subjects actively cutting Electric Vehicle chargers at the Lincoln City Outlet Mall and immediately notified LCPD. Officers surrounded the Outlet Mall and intercepted the suspects as they were leaving in a blue Honda Ridgeline. Both suspects were taken into custody without further incident. A search warrant was obtained and executed, leading to the recovery of over two dozen heavy-duty electric vehicle charging cables and a list of targets throughout Lincoln and Marion Counties.

The two suspects were lodged on the following charges into the Lincoln County Jail: Criminal Conspiracy, Theft 1^st Degree, Criminal Mischief 1^st Degree, Possession of Burglar Tools, Possession of Methamphetamine, and Possession of Fentanyl.

If you have any information regarding this string of thefts, please contact the Lincoln City Police Department (case number LCP26010692).

ELECTRIC VEHICLE REMINDERS

Our communities have seen an increase in e-bike and e-scooter use. For some, these can be great options for convenient transportation and recreation, but they come with the responsibility of following laws and taking additional precautions to keep everyone safe.

In the last few months, there have been concerns about the safety of pedestrians, local traffic, and the operators themselves due to unsafe navigation of e-bikes throughout Lincoln County. Before your electric adventure begins, there are some things you should know.

• E-bikes
  • Definition: a bicycle equipped with an electric motor and that is a Class 1, 2, or 3 electric assisted bicycle.
    • Class 1: Provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 MPH.
    • Class 2: May be propelled by its motor without a rider pedaling and ceases to provide assistance once the bicycle reaches a speed of 20 MPH.
    • Class 3: Provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 28 MPH, and is equipped with a speedometer.
    • Gas assisted bicycles gas assisted bicycles are considered mopeds, see below for more information.
  • Use requirements:
    • Operators must be at least 16 years old.
    • May not be driven on sidewalks.
    • Approved lighting must be used when operating under limited visibility.
    • Helmets are recommended unless they violate religious beliefs.
       
• Moped:
  • Defined as a vehicle that:
    • Is designed to be operated on the ground with no more than three wheels.
    • Has a seat or saddle for operator use.
    • Is equipped with an independent power source that
      • Maxes out at 30 MPH on level ground, and
      • If gas-powered, has a displacement of 35.01 to 50cc.
    • Has an automatic power drive and does not require clutching or shifting.
    • Note: If the vehicle exceeds either maximum capable speed or engine size, it is a motorcycle.
  • Use requirements:
    • Must have registration and insurance to operate on public roadways and premises open to the public is.
    • Requires a driver license to operate (but not a motorcycle endorsement).
    • Motorcycle helmet required.
    • Headlights required.
    • May operate in a bike lane only if exclusively powered by human power.
    • Passengers are not allowed.
       
• E-scooters:
  • Defined as a vehicle that:         
    • Is designed to be operated on the ground with up to four wheels and has foot support or a seat for the operator’s use.
    • Can be propelled by motor OR human propulsion.
    • Is equipped with a power source that maxes out at 24 MPH on level ground.
    • If gas-powered, has a max displacement of 35 cc.
    • If electric, has a max output of 1,000 watts.
  • Use requirements:
    • Operators must be at least 16 years old.
    • May not exceed 15 MPH.
    • Users must wear protective headgear unless doing so violates religious beliefs.
    • Passengers are not allowed.
    • Approved lighting must be used when operating under limited visibility.
    • Must use bicycle lane or path if bicycle lane or path is near the roadway and use is not prohibited by local laws.
    • May ride on sidewalk to enter or leave adjacent property.
    • Must walk scooter in crosswalk (this does not apply to person with a disability).
    • Use may be restricted by local jurisdictions.

Weather, experience, and traffic can impact the safety of navigating and sharing the road. Using additional caution and patience can help keep our roads safer for everyone involved. Check out this guide from Oregon Department of Transportation for more information: https://www.oregon.gov/odot/forms/dmv/6619.pdf

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On August 3, 2026 at about 12:36pm, a Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputy observed a gray Jeep Wrangler driving southbound in the center lane of Highway 101 near Milepost 143, South Beach, Oregon. The deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop by activating their emergency lights but the Jeep failed to stop and continued southbound on Highway 101. The Jeep continued driving recklessly as deputies pursued the vehicle.

Spike strips were successfully deployed near Milepost 153 but the Jeep continued southbound passing through Waldport. Deputies observed the driver waving a firearm (handgun) out the window at one point and then observed gunshots coming from the vehicle south of Patterson State Park. The driver of the vehicle attempted to turn around in the highway near the intersection of Highway 101 and SW Whitecap Drive (Milepost 158). A deputy struck the Jeep with his patrol vehicle which stopped the vehicle from continuing.

The driver, identified as 32-year-old Waldport resident Demar Jabary Soto, was taken into custody without further incident. Soto was transported to Samaritan Pacific Communities Hospital for a medical evaluation before being lodged in the Lincoln County Jail on charges of Attempted Assault I, Attempted Assault on a Police Officer, Attempting to Elude a Police Officer, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Menacing, Criminal Mischief I, Disorderly Conduct, Reckless Driving, and Recklessly Endangering Another Person. Oregon State Police is assisting with the investigation which is ongoing. None of the involved deputies were injured during the incident and it is not believed any members of the public were harmed.

There is no further risk to the community, however, Highway 101 traffic is currently being diverted to avoid the investigation area. Southbound traffic is being diverted onto SW Range Drive/S Crestline Drive/ SW Wakonda Beach Road to avoid the impacted area. Northbound highway traffic is being diverted onto SW Wakonda Beach Road/S Crestline Drive/SW Range Drive.

A HOT CAR IS NO PLACE FOR YOUR PET

While many of us welcome the warmer weather, we must remember that some of our loved ones may find themselves in an uncomfortable predicament. It could even result in their death.

Pets regularly accompany many people on trips and errands, which often leaves them alone in a vehicle. Pets should not be left unattended in a parked car. On warm days, and even cloudy days, the temperature in a car can rise to dangerous levels in minutes, even with the windows left open.

A brief stop at a store or another errand can quickly turn into 15 minutes or more before we know it. Leaving pets in a car for this time could be a mistake that takes their life. Leaving the windows cracked won't cool the car enough to protect your beloved pet, even if they have water available.

Oregon was the 11th state to pass a Good Samaritan Law, which allows anyone – not just law enforcement – to enter a vehicle (by force or otherwise) to remove an unattended domestic animal without fear of civil or criminal liability. If you come upon a scenario where you believe an animal could perish, please contact our dispatch center at 541-265-0777 before deciding to enter the vehicle. Be ready to convey your location, the vehicle description, and a description of you. Our Animal Service Deputies will make every effort to respond quickly.

If you determine that more immediate life-saving action is necessary, please ensure you do all of the following:

• have a reasonable belief that the animal is in imminent danger
• notify law enforcement or emergency services either before or soon after entering the vehicle
• use only the minimum force necessary to enter the vehicle
• stay with the animal until law enforcement, emergency services, or the owner or operator of the vehicle arrives.

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

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On August 4, 2026, at approximately 8:24 p.m., deputies responded to a report of a possible drowning at Scotts Mills County Park. Upon arrival, the victim was not located.

Early this morning, the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office Dive Team searched Butte Creek at Scotts Mills Falls and recovered the body of a 20-year-old man.

The Sheriff's Office extends its condolences to the victim's family and asks the public to respect their privacy during this difficult time.

No additional details will be released at this time.

We ask the public to avoid Scotts Mills County Park while this investigation continues.

The Marion County Sheriff's Office thanks the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office for the assistance of its Dive Team.

The Marion County Sheriff's Office is conducting an investigation in the area of the Keizer Rapids Boat Ramp.

The public is asked to avoid the area while the investigation is underway and to follow directions from deputies and other law enforcement personnel.

No additional information is available at this time.

UPDATE: Headline updated to reflect crash location of Highway 30. 

CLATSOP COUNTY, Ore. (4 August 2026) – On Saturday, August 1, 2026, at approximately 8:59 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a fatal vehicle‑versus‑motorcycle crash on Highway 30 near milepost 90 in Clatsop County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a black Triumph Daytona motorcycle, operated by Samuel Stephen Clutter (55) of Portland, was traveling eastbound on Highway 30 near Timmerman Road near Astoria when it crossed into the westbound travel lane while attempting to pass in a no‑passing zone. The motorcycle collided head‑on with a yellow Ford Transit van, operated by Matthew James Weatherman (42) of Warrenton.

The operator of the Triumph (Clutter) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Ford van (Weatherman) had reported minor injuries.

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

OSP was assisted by the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office, Knappa Fire District, Medix Ambulance Service, Clatsop County Medical Examiner’s Office, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

# # #

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

JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. (4 August 2026) – On Saturday, August 1, 2026, at approximately 4:42 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a fatal vehicle-versus-elk crash.

The preliminary investigation indicated a white Kia Spectra, operated by Hilver Randolfo Perez Interiano (51) of Grants Pass, was traveling eastbound on Highway 234 near Antioch Road near Eagle Point when it struck a large cow elk in the roadway. After striking the elk, the vehicle continued eastbound until it left the roadway and struck a tree on the westbound shoulder.

The operator of the Kia (Perez Interiano) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The Kia passenger, Eyda Ortiz Perez (42) of Grants Pass, was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.

The highway was closed for approximately four hours during the on‑scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Mercy Flights, 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.

UPDATE: Updated to reflect the motorcycle was traveling eastbound. 

LINN COUNTY, Ore. (3 August 2026) – On Friday, July 31, 2026, at approximately 9:41 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus motorcycle fatal crash on Highway 226 near milepost 11 in Linn County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a blue Ford 350 pickup truck, operated by Arthur Vernon Roberts (77) of Lebanon, was traveling westbound on Hwy. 226 when it slowed to turn south on Richardson Gap Road and turned into the path of an eastbound Harley Davidson motorcycle, operated by Tanner Kolten Henderson (29) of Gates. The motorcycle struck the front end of the pickup truck and the motorcycle and rider landed in the ditch off the roadway. The pickup came to a rest in the roadway blocking the intersection.  

The operator of the Harley Davidson (Henderson) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Ford (Roberts) was reportedly not injured, remained on scene, and cooperated with the investigation.

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

The crash remains under investigation, and no further information is available for release at this time.

OSP was assisted by the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, Lebanon Fire District, 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.

For the remaining days in August through the end of September the Roseburg Police Department will have extra patrols out working traffic enforcement, with a specific focus on safety belt use, distracted driving, speeding and driving under the influence.  These focused patrols are made available due to grants received from Oregon Impact and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

Seat belts have been proven to be one of the best ways to save your life in a crash. Yet many still don’t buckle up. Worse still, not wearing a seat belt is a habit that will pass on to impressionable youth, who in turn will think it’s safe to not buckle up.

Distracted driving is one of the fastest growing safety issues on the roads today. Distracted drivers aren’t just a threat to themselves: they’re a danger to everyone else on the road. The national distracted driving effort focuses on ways to change the behavior of drivers through legislation, enforcement, public awareness, and education.

Be on the lookout for specific enforcement campaigns over the next two months. 

PORTLAND, Ore. (Aug. 4, 2026)— Kaiser Permanente Sunnyside Medical Center has been recognized as the No. 1 hospital in Oregon for Cardiology, Heart & Vascular Surgery by U.S. News & World Report, highlighting its leadership in advanced heart and vascular care. The recognition is especially significant because the specialty ranking is now based primarily on patient outcomes and clinical performance, reflecting how well Sunnyside Medical Center helps patients recover and improve their health after treatment.

“Being recognized as the No. 1 hospital in Oregon for Cardiac Care by U.S. News & World Report is a tremendous honor because it reflects what matters most: the outcomes we achieve for our patients,” said Dr. Leong Koh, executive medical director for Northwest Permanente. “This distinction is a testament to the skill, dedication, and teamwork of our physicians, nurses, technicians, and care teams who are committed to delivering evidence-based, patient-centered cardiovascular care every day. We are proud to help patients across our community live healthier lives through exceptional clinical performance and compassionate care.”

Sunnyside also was named a Best Regional Hospital, and earned high-performing ratings in the following 17 areas: (newly recognized areas bolded) Abdominal aortic aneurysm; Aortic valve surgery; Back surgery (spinal fusion); Colon cancer surgery; Diabetes; Ear, nose & throat surgery; Gynecological cancer surgery; Heart Arrhythmia; Heart attack; Heart bypass surgery; Hip fracture; Leukemia, Lymphoma, & myeloma; Lung cancer surgery; Pacemaker implantation; Pneumonia; Stroke; Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR).

Kaiser Permanente Westside Medical Center also received high performing ratings in Colon cancer surgery; Hip replacement; Pneumonia (newly recognized areas bolded).

This is the highest distinction a hospital can earn as part of U.S. News’ Best Hospitals Procedures & Conditions ratings. Fewer than half of the thousands of hospitals evaluated earned a 'High Performing' designation in the types of care evaluated by U.S. News. 

“Kaiser Permanente Sunnyside Medical Center’s designation as a Best Regional Hospital, along with high-performing ratings for both Sunnyside and Westside medical centers, reflects the outstanding work of our care teams,” said Adam Van Den Avyle, vice president and hospital administrator for Kaiser Permanente Northwest. “This recognition belongs to the clinicians, nurses, staff and teams whose commitment to clinical excellence, innovation and compassionate care makes a meaningful difference for our patients every day.”

“When patients face a major surgery or a chronic medical condition, having access to clear, quality data is vital,” said U.S. News’ Managing Editor and Chief of Health Analysis Ben Harder. “A ‘High Performing’ rating means that Sunnyside and Westside Medical Centers outperformed a national threshold, giving families a reliable starting point as they consult with their doctors to choose the best place for care.” 

U.S. News’ annual Procedures & Conditions ratings are designed to assist patients and their health care providers in making informed decisions about where to receive care for challenging health conditions or elective procedures. For more information, visit U.S. News & World Report. 

About Kaiser Permanente 

Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America’s leading health care providers and not-for-profit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve 12.9 million members in 9 states and the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health. 

PENDLETON, Ore. — Two Oregon Army National Guard CH-47 Chinook helicopters and two HH-60M Black Hawk helicopters began water bucket operations July 29, 2026, in support of wildland firefighting efforts on the Hagen Fire in Umatilla County, part of a broader Oregon National Guard response to the state's 2026 wildfire season.

As of July 29, the Hagen Fire had burned approximately 33,504 acres and was 3% contained, according to the Oregon Department of Forestry. Aircrews completed 44 water bucket drops that day, delivering approximately 50,070 gallons of water on the fire.

The aircraft are flying out of Army Aviation Support Facility #2 in Pendleton, home to the Oregon Army National Guard's CH-47 fleet, after the unit received its State Active Duty activation order and completed Joint Reception, Staging, Onward Movement and Integration July 28.

"Currently, we're activated on state active duty for forest fires, and we just got the activation yesterday," said Maj. Taylor Fry, operations officer for Army Aviation Support Facility #2. "We have two CH-47s and crews that are out fighting these fires, along with two Black Hawks ... conducting those water bucket drops for those forest fire activities to support our local community, to save land, to save livestock and to save homes."

Fry said coordination with the Oregon Department of Forestry and partner agencies has been close, aided this year by fire management support from California.

"We work very well with them and have for many years," Fry said. "We have a couple of representatives from Cal Fire up here this year, helping us out with our helicopter management and coordination with them ... We get our missions from them. We get our guidance from them, and they use us as best they can to support their mission."

Behind every aircraft in the air is a maintenance team working to keep it there. Staff Sgt. Amanda Hickman, an aircraft systems supervisor at AASF #2, oversees the ground crew responsible for keeping the Chinooks flight-ready, including the water buckets themselves.

"There's a lot that goes into making sure that our buckets are operational," Hickman said. "The mechanics spend a lot of time making sure that all of our faults are minimized the best that we can. I do a little bit of production control, so a lot goes into verifying how much time I have available on each aircraft, and then setting priorities for which aircraft can fly and how many hours each aircraft can fly."

Hickman, who has served in the Oregon Army National Guard for 20 years, said aircraft turnaround time depends heavily on parts availability, and keeping it fast is one of the least visible but most demanding parts of the mission.

"I like that the National Guard is being used for something to help our community, and so if I can play a part in helping the community, that's what I want to do," she said.

Once a Chinook is airborne, its crew chief takes on responsibility for the bucket itself. Sgt. Isaiah Torres, a Chinook crew chief, said the process starts well before the aircraft ever reaches a fire.

"It's almost the same as for any other flight, except you have to get the bucket ready," Torres said. "We get our bucket staged ... inspect the bucket, make sure valves are good. We do an op check before we actually take the bucket to the target site."

In flight, Torres said two crew members work in the back of the aircraft to guide the pilots over the fire and monitor the load.

"Once that bucket's over that fire, I release the trigger on a handle. Water dumps, water's away," Torres said. "We go back to the dip site. We get more water. Simple as that."

Torres, who has served as a crew chief for two years, said the mission carries a sense of purpose that training flights don't.

"It's better than just training flights. I think we're actually doing our job, which I enjoy," Torres said. "I've never been in a helicopter before the Army, so it's a pretty cool experience."

Fry said the biggest challenge of sustaining the mission isn't equipment or coordination, but people, Oregon Army National Guard members balancing the activation with civilian jobs and families during peak summer months.

"It takes our citizen Soldiers away from their full-time jobs and their families," Fry said. "But the best part about this organization is that everybody is willing to do that, and everybody is willing to give up their summers and their time to come and support this mission to support the state."

Fry added that the Guard members flying and maintaining the aircraft are, in many cases, the same people Oregonians see every day.

"These people are your neighbors. They're your friends," Fry said. "They're out here supporting you, supporting the state, and supporting our interests to keep the state safe and beautiful."

Gina Miner, Assistant Area Director for Oregon Department of Forestry's Eastern Oregon Area, said aircraft are expected to continue supporting firefighting efforts as long as they are needed, which will be based on conditions on the ground.

PORTLAND, Ore. – Fire restrictions remain in effect on all Bureau of Land Management public lands in Oregon and Washington. BLM officials urge visitors to research additional restrictions and closures for places they plan to recreate this weekend, as the National Weather Service has issued a “Particularly Dangerous Situation” Red Flag Warning for Saturday afternoon and evening. This rare warning signals exceptionally hazardous fire weather conditions across central and eastern Washington

“We need everyone to work together and take appropriate precautions,” said Kim Prill, acting BLM Oregon/Washington State Director. "Every wildfire that is prevented helps protect lives, communities and the public lands we all value.”

Much of the region is forecast to experience high temperatures, low humidity and strong winds. These critical fire weather conditions can allow new fires to start easily and spread rapidly.

"As fire danger remains high, we ask everyone to stay informed, follow local restrictions and make fire-safe decisions every time they head outdoors," Prill continued.

The BLM, in close coordination with the U.S. Wildland Fire Service and federal, state, and local partners, is aligning operations and sharing resources to ensure the strongest possible response to wildfire activity.

“When people follow fire restrictions and recreate responsibly, firefighters can focus their efforts where they're needed most and respond more effectively to new incidents,” said Josh O'Connor, Northwest Geographic Area Fire Chief for the U.S. Wildland Fire Service. 

Safety Recommendations:

• Use extreme caution with any ignition sources
• Stay alert to the forecast and follow instructions from emergency officials
• Make fire-safe decisions every time you head outdoors
• Review and follow all fire restrictions and prevention requirements

The BLM and U.S. Wildland Fire Service remind everyone:

A PDS Red Flag Warning is not routine; it requires immediate attention and proactive safety actions. By working together, we can protect lives, communities, and the public lands we all value.

Individuals responsible for starting wildfires may face fines of up to $100,000, imprisonment for up to 12 months, and liability for the full cost of wildfire suppression.

For more information on seasonal fire restrictions and fire closures, please see www.blm.gov/orwafire.

-BLM-

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

The U.S. Wildland Fire Service conducts operations in close coordination with the Bureau of Land Management. As a unified federal entity under the Department of the Interior, the USWFS integrates expertise to streamline wildfire prevention, response and recovery under our shared mission to foster fire-resilient landscapes and safeguard communities across America’s public lands.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING CANCELLED

The Telecommunications Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting scheduled for August 5, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., has been cancelled due to lack of quorum.

The next Telecommunications Policy Committee meeting is to be determined.

2026 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. The current vacancies are as follows:

BPSST: All Board applications must be submitted through Workday.com and are reviewed on a rolling basis

• One member who is a representative of corrections personnel recommended to the Governor by the Oregon State Sheriffs’ Association
• One member who is an administrator of a municipality recommended to the Governor by the executive body of the League of Oregon Cities
• One member who is part of a marginalized or historically underrepresented community
• One member who is a representative of the collective bargaining unit that represents the largest number of individual workers in the DOC

Policy Committees: All Policy Committee applications must be submitted by September 18, 2026.

Corrections Policy Committee:

• One non-management corrections officer employed by the DOC
• One public member who has never been employed or utilized as a corrections officer

Police Policy Committee:

• One person recommended by and representing the Oregon State Sheriffs' Association
• One non-management law enforcement officer
• One non-management law enforcement officer

Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee:

• One person representing unarmed private security professionals
• One person representing the manufacturing industry
• One person representing the retail industry
• One person representing the hospitality industry
• One person representing the public who has never been employed or utilized as a private security provider or investigator

Private Investigator Subcommittee:

• Two currently licensed private investigators

Telecommunications Policy Committee:

• One person recommended by and representing a statewide association of public safety communications officers
• One person recommended by and representing the Oregon Association of Chiefs of Police
• One person representing Emergency Medical Services & Trauma 

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

Wildfire smoke rolls over the skies near Warm Springson July 25, 2026 - courtesy of the Oregon Department of Transportation

SALEM, Ore. — As wildfire seasons intensify and air quality fluctuates across Oregon, the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), Oregon Health Authority (OHA), Oregon State University (OSU) Extension Service, and Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) are issuing coordinated guidance for livestock owners and fair exhibitors to safeguard animal health during smoke events.

Air Quality Monitoring and Alerts

DEQ’s statewide monitoring network provides real-time updates on fine particulate matter, ozone, and other pollutants at more than 40 sites throughout Oregon. Daily updates, including wildfire smoke advisories, are available through the DEQ Air Quality Index map and compatible mobile applications.

During severe wildfire periods, DEQ, OHA, and partner agencies implement the Wildfire Smoke Response Protocol, which triggers air quality alerts, public advisories, and technical support.

Protecting Livestock from Smoke Exposure

The OSU Extension Service advises that wildfire smoke contains fine particles that can irritate respiratory systems in animals. During smoke events, livestock owners are encouraged to minimize animal exercise, provide abundant fresh water, and use dust‑free bedding or feed. Misting or sprinkling holding areas can also help reduce airborne particulates.

A recent OSU study found that even short-term smoke exposure can elevate stress markers in calves and activate immune responses before outward symptoms appear. Producers should closely monitor air quality forecasts and adjust livestock activities accordingly.

Livestock intended for exhibition should only be shown on days with favorable air quality and should be monitored for signs of respiratory stress.

Fairground Biosecurity and Exhibitor Safety

ODA requires all livestock exhibitions to register at least 20 days before an event and maintain complete animal records for 90 days afterward. Events must designate isolation areas for animals that show signs of illness and maintain veterinarian oversight throughout their duration.

Influenza‑susceptible species—including dairy cattle, swine, poultry, and waterfowl—must be housed separately from other species. Lactating dairy cattle must be milked in areas inaccessible to the public or protected by a physical barrier.

Human Health Considerations

The Oregon Health Authority notes that fair participants may be exposed to smoke outdoors for prolonged periods. People with heart and lung disease, infants, children, youth, older adults, pregnant women are at higher risk of poor health outcomes than other groups. Outdoor workers and volunteers are at higher risk of exposure. Individuals may have more than one risk factor. It is best to avoid smoke by staying indoors during periods of poor air quality. Participants who must be outdoors should:

• Follow any breathing plan developed with their health care provider. Keep any prescribed rescue medication close.
• Take frequent rest breaks in indoor spaces- preferably in air conditioned buildings with filtered air.
• Consider use of a N95 or better respirator during periods of poor air quality. Those with heart and lung disease should consult with their provider first.
• Take extra care when heat and smoke occur together. The combination can worsen harmful health effects.  

Fair organizers and exhibitors should provide and clearly mark filtered-air indoor spaces, ensure access to handwashing stations, and offer clear messaging about air quality expectations. 

OHA also recognizes agricultural community members affected by wildfires may be under emotional distress. Two helplines offer 24/7 emotional support. 988 is available for anyone who needs support. The Agristress Helpline supports farmers, ranchers and rural community members. Fair organizers are encouraged to share this information as well.  

Recommendations for Upcoming Fairs and Exhibitions

• Monitor official air quality sources regularly and schedule events during favorable conditions.
• Prioritize animal welfare by reducing stressors such as exercise and dust exposure.
• Follow ODA’s exhibition registration, recordkeeping, and isolation-area requirements.
• Enhance human safety by offering filtered-air spaces, sanitation facilities, and clear public communications.
• Provide real-time updates and preparedness guidance to staff, volunteers, exhibitors, and visitors.

Additional Resources

• Oregon Smoke Blog
• OHA Wildfire and Smoke Guidance
• OHA Air Quality Guide for Children and Youth
• OSU Extension livestock smoke exposure resources
• OSU Extension Air quality resources during wildfires
• ODA Exhibition Rules and Biosecurity Guidance

Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) has tips for homeowners and renters who have evacuated or been affected by wildfires, smoke, or ash damage.

“We know this is a hard time for many Oregonians as wildfires affect communities across the state,” said Oregon Insurance Commissioner TK Keen. “We want people to have these tips so they know what their insurance covers and what steps to take if they are affected by a wildfire.”

• If you were evacuated, save your receipts. Your homeowners policy may pay for expenses such as lodging, food, and even pet boarding due to a mandatory evacuation. Be sure to check with your insurance company or agent to confirm your specific coverage. Coverage is typically available for fire, smoke, and ash damage to your home and personal property.

• Additional living expenses (ALE) are typically subject to your deductible, so before you file a claim, be sure it makes sense to do so. It is important to note that a claim can be counted against you for underwriting purposes, even if the insurance company does not make a payment. Most homeowners and renters’ insurance policies help pay for extra expenses such as ALE if you are unable to live in your home. Every company handles these expenses differently. Check with your company or agent for specifics.

• If you have not evacuated and it is safe to do so, make a quick home inventory list by taking photos or video of each room in your home. Pay close attention to what is on the walls and in drawers and closets. Don’t forget storage areas such as the attic and garage. You can also check your insurance company’s website for an app or checklist that will help. Creating that list will help you after a fire or disaster. If your personal belongings are damaged, the insurance company will request a list of items that are damaged or destroyed. Take some time to work on your home inventory list now. Look through your photos and videos to help recall personal items. Be sure to look for smaller items, such as jewelry. To the best of your ability, write down the age, original cost, and replacement cost of each item.

• Ask about your auto coverage, too. You need comprehensive coverage on your auto policy to cover fire, smoke, and ash damage, no matter where your vehicle is located at the time of loss.

Following these tips will help save you money, time, and stress during a wildfire and its aftermath. For more information on preparing for a wildfire, visit DFR’s wildfire page.

If you still have questions or concerns, DFR’s consumer advocates are here to help. Call the team at 888-877-4894 (toll-free), email them at .insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov">dfr.insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov, or visit dfr.oregon.gov.

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About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

Salem – The Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) responded to 2027 health insurance rate requests filed for the individual and small group markets with reductions that could save consumers approximately $30 million for plan year 2027.

In the individual market, DFR decreased the average rate increase from 17.5 percent to 16 percent, while in the small group it reduced insurers’ increase from an average of 17 percent to 15.5 percent, some receiving reductions of up to 8 percent.

While plans and prices change each year, the individual market continues to experience uncertainty, primarily due to the loss of the federal enhanced premium tax credits, which Congress chose not to extend in 2025. Those tax credits helped make health insurance plans more affordable for nearly 120,000 Oregonians. Gov. Tina Kotek previously warned of significant premium increases, in a letter to Congress, along with 17 other governors. Gov. Kotek urged Congress to extend the tax credits to help protect the people of Oregon. Additionally, insurance companies identified the underlying reasons for the rate increases for plan year 2027, which included the loss of two insurance companies in the individual market, heightened medical costs, and tariff pressures on durable medical equipment and pharmaceuticals. Many of the same cost pressures were identified in the small group market.

The Oregon Reinsurance Program continues to help stabilize the market and lower the rate increases. This year the reinsurance program lowered rates by an average of 9.7 percent, minimizing price increases felt by consumers. Reinsurance lowered rates for the ninth straight year. Oregon has resubmitted a renewal request to the federal government to maintain this program. The Oregon Legislature adopted Gov. Kotek’s 2025-27 funding plan, which continued revenue streams that keep the reinsurance program stable. Rates for the individual market in Oregon have come in lower than other states in part because of the reinsurance program.

“Increasing insurance rates are part of the rising cost of living felt by many Oregonians,” said Oregon Insurance Commissioner TK Keen. “Consequently, I’m proud of the work my dedicated team here at DFR has done to protect Oregonians’ pocketbooks by scrutinizing the proposed increases further and appropriately turning the dial downward.”

You can see all the adjusted rate proposals on the DFR website for individual and small group. DFR will announce its final rate decisions for the 2027 plan year in early September.

Consumers seeking information and assistance with individual market plans can reach out to the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace at oregonhealthcare.gov or by phone at 855‑268‑3767 (toll‑free).

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About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

REDMOND, Ore.—The Central Oregon Interagency Dispatch Center is working hard to catch and put out wildfires while they are small.  They have the responsibility to coordinate the first response to these fires, called “initial attack.”

“The center has been key to suppressing more than 100 fires already this year with their efficient and fast deployment of initial firefighting resources,” said Rick Fletcher, Assistant District Forester for the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Central Oregon District.  The center coordinates the physical firefighting resources of ODF, U.S Forest Service and the newly created U.S. Wildland Fire Service.

“Most importantly the center brings together hundreds of years of state and federal firefighting experience to manage those resources to protect the people and property of central Oregon no matter who owns the land,” said Fletcher.

This close cooperation between state and federal agencies didn’t always happen historically.

“It was crazy 20-years ago, Forest Service trucks would pass ODF trucks on the same road going opposite directions to different fires because both agencies would only do initial attack on their lands,” said Jason Gibb, U.S. Forest Service Deputy Fire Staff for Central Oregon Fire Management Service.  “Now under our jointly funded and jointly staffed center, we use the closest forces concept. The firefighting resources closest to the fire get dispatched no matter the landowner.”

According to Fletcher, there are two major advantages to this joint approach to dispatching: “We get to fires quicker and safety is improved since we are moving resources shorter distances.”  

That quick response is also extremely efficient, especially during intense thunderstorm activity.  For example, on July 22, the central Oregon area received an estimated 2,000 lightning strikes from a storm. Firefighters responded to more than 35 reported wildfires.   Several of those fires had an interagency response, including Incident #551, that was burning three miles northeast of Terrebonne on the north side of the Crooked River east of Smith Rock State Park.

“The fire was on federal land but responding resources include municipal, state and federal engines and crews,” said Fletcher.  “Because of the fast joint response, we stopped the forward progress that night.  It was a great catch.”   Fletcher has firsthand knowledge of that quick response since he was one of the closest resources and was the incident commander for the fire.

The center’s job doesn’t stop with a successful allocation of resources nor when the lightening stops. 

“Lightening that strikes trees or vegetation can sometimes smolder for several days without producing significant smoke,” said Matt Noble, who monitors ODF smoke cameras and other detection resources for the central Oregon area. “Sometimes we see a little smoke for a few minutes then it’s gone because of the rain with the thunderstorm. That makes monitoring that area critical for the next several days in case it flares up.”

Those found fires’ locations are pushed to the center’s other staff for quick coordinated action. Then ground or air resources are sent to the fire starts to catch them before they can grow.

The center also tracks all firefighting resources in the area. The numbers change daily, and even hourly, there are a lot of fires in central Oregon. Currently, there are 32 large fires in Oregon with more than 11,700 people assigned to them, and nearly all of those fires and resources are on the east side of the state. This year, wildfires have burned more than 2 million acres statewide, with much of that in central and eastern Oregon.

“The challenge for the center is to have resources available for initial attack when these lightning storms hit, while not hampering the efforts to control the current large fires,” said Fletcher. 

The center does this though a jointly agreed upon priority list, but center staff still have to use their expertise to make that final decision on what firefighting resources go to which fire when.

“It’s not necessarily first come first served during the height of fire season, said Gibbs. “We look at (fire) fuels, weather, terrain, distances to those priorities, prior thinning and treatment like prescribed fire, and more—just many factors we take into consideration before we make our dispatch decisions.  And, all this must be done quickly and efficiently.”

The central Oregon area is so large—encompassing land from The Dalles down past Prineville and across to John Day—that one interagency center is not enough to coordinate all the firefighting resources to protect Oregonians, their communities, and the state’s natural resources. “We have three primary interagency centers we coordinate and staff that support central Oregon,” said Fletcher. Those centers are in Redmond, Vancouver, and John Day. Relevant and timely information is shared between the centers based on fire locations and available resources.

“I’ve worked firefighting jobs all over the state and this interagency model of centers is the most efficient and most effective,” said Fletcher.  “It’s the best way to protect people and property.”

For more on the Central Oregon Interagency Dispatch Center see: Central Oregon Interagency Dispatch Center

For the latest update on central Oregon wildfire activity see: Wildfire Updates | Air Quality | Central Oregon Fire Information

Two Corvallis businesses will be recognized for supporting employees with disabilities at the State Rehabilitation Council’s quarterly meeting on Aug. 6.

Chateau Home Furnishings and Fred Meyer will receive the council’s Business Partner award, given to businesses that have hired or provided work experiences for participants of Vocational Rehabilitation (VR), a program of the Oregon Department of Human Services.

Council chair Ed Cortez said the council selected these businesses because of their efforts to open doors for job seekers with disabilities — not only through supportive hiring practices, but also by creating meaningful work experiences that help people explore careers and build confidence.

“We want to celebrate businesses that have created an environment where people with disabilities can thrive,” he said.

The council serves as an advisor to VR, which provides employment services for people with disabilities. VR also supports Oregon businesses —  helping them recruit, train, retain and promote employees with disabilities, all at no cost.

Chateau Home Furnishings

Ed Dasteur’s store, Chateau Home Furnishings, has been part of the Corvallis community since the 1980s. The store on NW Ninth Street sells beds, mattresses, sofas, dining sets, couches and home furnishings. It is known for the giant orange rocking chair out front.

“People take pictures of it every day,” Dasteur said.

Over the past decade, Dasteur has hired five VR participants and currently has one on staff who handles the store’s social media advertising and some light cleaning. Dasteur has also assisted about 15 others with career exploration in areas such as sales, computer work and furniture assembly.

He is quick to provide accommodations when needed, said Jesse Taylor, owner of JBT Vocational Advocacy, who nominated Dasteur for the award. The current employee hired through VR has lifting restrictions, which the store easily accommodates.

“He doesn’t have to lift couches,” Dasteur said. “It’s up to him what he wants to lift.”

Dasteur coordinates with Taylor to fill openings and host work experiences for people with disabilities who want to get job skills and explore what working is like. As a contracted vendor of the VR program, Taylor helps match VR participants and businesses looking to hire. He has seen first-hand Dasteur’s commitment to helping VR participants get work experience.

“Ed Dasteur believes everybody deserves a chance,” said Taylor. “He is kind and patient with our clientele through Vocational Rehabilitation and has provided jobs when he was able to.”

Dasteur said supporting the community is important to him. “If anybody needs help, I don’t hesitate. I even give furniture free to people who are totally broke.”

Fred Meyer

Fred Meyer’s stated core values of honesty, integrity, respect, diversity, safety, and inclusion show through its actions: currently four people from the VR program work at the store on Kings Boulevard. They work in a mix of freight, parcel, customer service, and store readiness roles that help keep the location running smoothly throughout the day, said Tim McKay, Human Resources Assistant Store Leader.

“Fred Meyer has an ongoing dedication to our communities and a longstanding commitment to hiring adults with disabilities,” McKay said.

These values also align with McKay’s beliefs, which stem from the personal experience of having a family member with a disability.

“I learned from watching this family member: let’s not put any restrictions on someone and see what they can do,” he said.

McKay said the best part of his job is hiring someone with raw potential and seeing them move up the job ladder. He puts into practice the philosophy of his father: “‘The world doesn’t owe you a living, but it does owe you an opportunity.’”

For example, he once hired a teenager with a disability who came in the store with his mother looking for a new job with more hours. McKay immediately hired him, and soon promoted him.

“I put him on night crew, then put him on as a courtesy clerk. I’m always in dialogue and work on cross-training. Everybody deserves a chance,” he said.

Taylor, of JBT Vocational Advocacy, nominated McKay for the award. He has seen firsthand how McKay’s leadership and commitment impact job seekers.

“Tim McKay has been an exceptional partner with Vocational Rehabilitation and my organization, providing a very kind, supportive, and professional service approach during each onboarding experience,” Taylor said. “His communication, understanding, and acceptance of accommodations have far exceeded my expectations. He has shown time and time again that every individual deserves a fair shot at employment and success.”
 

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About the State Rehabilitation Council

Oregon's State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) is an advisory partner to Vocational Rehabilitation (VR). Its role is to listen to VR participants about their VR experience and advise the VR program on how to improve services. 

About Vocational Rehabilitation

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) is a program of the Oregon Department of Human Services. VR helps people with all kinds of disabilities find careers that fit their skills, interests, and abilities. The program is also a resource for Oregon businesses regarding disability in the workplace. 

If you live in one of 12 Oregon counties and lost food bought with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits because of recent fires and evacuations, you now have more time to ask for replacement benefits.

Two additional counties, Baker and Harney, have been added to the list of eligible counties since July 30.

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) has extended the deadline for people whose food was lost or spoiled due to the wildfires in July.

Households in the counties listed below have until Aug. 14, to report food losses and request replacement SNAP benefits.

Counties included in the extended deadline:

• Baker
• Crook
• Deschutes
• Gilliam
• Harney
• Jackson
• Jefferson
• Sherman
• Umatilla
• Union
• Wasco
• Wheeler

What if I live in another county?

If you live outside these counties, the usual rule still applies.
 

You must report food losses within 10 days of the incident. ODHS may ask for proof.

How to request SNAP replacement benefits

You can request replacement benefits in any of these ways:

• Call 800-699-9075, relay calls welcome
• Visit a local ODHS office
• Fill out a https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/food/pages/snap-replacement.aspxreplacement request form
• Online: Log in to your ONE Online account
• By mail:
  ONE Customer Service Center
  PO Box 14015
  Salem, OR 97309
  (Mail must arrive by the deadline.)

Once approved, replacement benefits are added to the household’s existing Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. The maximum replacement amount is the cost of the food lost, not to exceed the household's normal monthly SNAP benefit.

When does the extended deadline end?

The extended deadline ends Aug. 14, 2026.

After that date, the 10-day reporting rule will apply again.

Resources to help meet basic needs

• Find a food pantry: Visit oregonfoodbank.org
• Learn about government programs and community resources for older adults and people with disabilities: Call 1-855-673-2372 or visit adrcoforegon.org.
• Find more resources near you: Dial 211, text your zip code to 898-211, or visit 211info.org

Administered by ODHS, SNAP is a federal program that provides food assistance to approximately 1 in 5 eligible, low-income families and individuals in Oregon, including many older adults and people with disabilities. Individuals in need can apply for benefits, including SNAP, child care, cash assistance and Medicaid. Learn more at benefits.oregon.gov

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

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

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

(Salem, OR) People anywhere in Oregon who have been affected by wildfires or wildfire-related air quality can call 1-833-699-0554 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The statewide hotline is available to people experiencing any wildfire-related impact, including those who:

• Lost a home or property
• Evacuated and have ongoing needs
• Are sheltering in place and have wildfire-related needs
• Are affected by wildfire smoke or poor air quality
• Have another need or concern caused by a wildfire

"During this difficult wildfire season, Oregonians impacted by fires deserve immediate and reliable access to the help they need," said Governor Tina Kotek. "That's why we've established a dedicated, 24/7 hotline - so that no Oregonian has to navigate this wildfire season alone or wonder where to turn to for help."

The hotline is staffed by 211info. If a call is not answered, callers can leave a message and will receive a return call within one business day.

This hotline does not provide emergency evacuation assistance or help people locate immediate shelter. People who are in immediate danger, have a medical emergency, or need emergency help evacuating should call 911. People looking for information about shelters or other immediate resources can call 2-1-1. For current 211info operating hours, visit 211info.org.

People can also enter their contact information and describe their wildfire-related needs using the Oregon Wildfire Assistance web form. An ODHS staff member will review the information and follow up with them.

“This wildfire season is already affecting a growing number of Oregon Tribes and communities,” said Ed Flick, Director, ODHS Office of Resilience and Emergency Management. “Wildfires can affect people in many ways, even when their homes have not burned. We want people to know there is one place they can call to share what they are experiencing and learn what resources may be available.”

In previous years the hotline has been used to connect people who lost homes in disasters with recovery support. This year, the Oregon Department of Human Services is expanding it to people experiencing a broader range of wildfire impacts.

ODHS has informally coordinated individual assistance following Oregon disasters since 2020. This year, Governor Tina Kotek directed ODHS to be ready to formally activate individual assistance when needed as the state prepares to establish a formal program in 2027 under House Bill 4121.

211info and ODHS will work with local communities to connect people with existing programs and local resources. If those resources are not enough to meet the level of need, ODHS will work with state leaders to identify additional support and funding options.

The hotline does not guarantee financial assistance or eligibility for a particular program. Staff will listen to each caller’s experience, document their needs and help identify available resources and next steps.

Hotline information

• Call: 1-833-699-0554
• Available: 24 hours a day, seven days a week
• Missed calls: Leave a message and your call will be returned within one business day
• Shelter and other immediate resource questions: call 211
• Emergencies or emergency evacuation help: call 911

If you live in one of 10 Oregon counties and lost food bought with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits because of recent fires and evacuations, you now have more time to ask for replacement benefits.

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) has extended the deadline for people whose food was lost or spoiled due to the wildfires in July.

Households in the counties listed below have until Aug. 14, to report food losses and request replacement SNAP benefits.

Counties included in the extended deadline:

• Crook
• Deschutes
• Gilliam
• Jackson
• Jefferson
• Sherman
• Umatilla
• Union
• Wasco
• Wheeler

What if I live in another county?

If you live outside these counties, the usual rule still applies.
 

You must report food losses within 10 days of the incident. ODHS may ask for proof.

How to request SNAP replacement benefits

You can request replacement benefits in any of these ways:

• Call 800-699-9075, relay calls welcome
• Visit a local ODHS office
• Fill out a replacement request form
• Online: Log in to your ONE Online account
• By mail:
  ONE Customer Service Center
  PO Box 14015
  Salem, OR 97309
  (Mail must arrive by the deadline.)

Once approved, replacement benefits are added to the household’s existing Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. The maximum replacement amount is the cost of the food lost, not to exceed the household's normal monthly SNAP benefit.

When does the extended deadline end?

The extended deadline ends Aug. 14, 2026.

After that date, the 10-day reporting rule will apply again.

Resources to help meet basic needs

• Find a food pantry: Visit oregonfoodbank.org
• Learn about government programs and community resources for older adults and people with disabilities: Call 1-855-673-2372 or visit adrcoforegon.org.
• Find more resources near you: Dial 211, text your zip code to 898-211, or visit 211info.org

Administered by ODHS, SNAP is a federal program that provides food assistance to approximately 1 in 5 eligible, low-income families and individuals in Oregon, including many older adults and people with disabilities. Individuals in need can apply for benefits, including SNAP, child care, cash assistance and Medicaid. Learn more at benefits.oregon.gov.

The Oregon Department of Revenue has released the 2026 edition of its annual, Oregon Personal Income Tax Statistics report covering Tax Year 2024. Personal Income Tax is the state’s largest source of tax revenue and is forecast to provide about 84 percent of the General Fund for the 2025–27 biennium.

What is the Oregon Personal Income Tax Statistics report?

This publication tells the story of how personal income tax is calculated for individual taxpayers, provides demographic information describing who Oregon’s taxpayers are, and compares the most recent characteristics of taxpayers with data from previous years dating back to 2013. The statistics presented are based on tax year 2024 income tax returns received by the Oregon Department of Revenue in the 2025 calendar year.

Who uses the Oregon Personal Income Tax Statistics report?

The report provides information valuable to businesses, government officials, policymakers, taxpayers, the general public, and media reporting on tax and revenue issues.

Where can you get the Oregon Personal Income Tax Statistics report?

The report can be accessed online at https://www.oregon.gov/dor/gov-research and is presented in PDF format so that pages, sections, or the entire report can be easily printed. Detailed tables, and additional information about Oregon’s personal income tax, such as publications and forms, can be found on the Oregon Department of Revenue statistics webpage.

July 30, 2026

Contact: Amy Bacher, 503.405.5403, acher2@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">amy.bacher2@oha.oregon.gov (media inquiries)

Spencer Rosenau, 541-975-3759, HITOC.INFO@odhsoha.oregon.gov (meeting information or accommodation)

Health Information Technology Oversight Council to meet August 6

What: The regular public meeting of Health Information Technology Oversight Council.

When: August 6, 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm

Where: By webinar and conference line only. The public may join remotely through a webinar and conference line:

• Join the webinar here
• Conference line: +1 971-277-2343, Phone Conference ID: 935 906 401#

Agenda:

• Welcome, Introductions and HITOC Business (12:30 - 12:45)
  • Action on June 2026 Minutes
  • Recruitment update
  • Thank you departing members
• Update on Artificial Intelligence in Health IT (12:45-1:15)
• Small Group Discussion: AI in Health IT (1:15-1:45)
• Federal Rules and Upcoming Changes to Oregon Health Plan (1:45-2:00)
• 10 Minute Break (2:00-2:10)
• Hot Topics in Health IT: Open Member Discussion (2:10-2:30)
• Rural Health Transformation Program: Update (2:30-2:45)
• Upcoming Committee Priorities (2:45-3:20)
  • 2026 Workplan midyear progress check
  • Interoperability position paper planning
• Health IT Policy and Program Updates (3:20-3:25)
  • Health IT and Behavioral Health Update
• Public Comment, Closing Remarks, and Meeting Adjourn (3:25 – 3:30)

For more information, please visit the committee's website.

# # #

Public comment is an important part of OHA’s committee work and is an opportunity for members of the public to provide input and feedback to HITOC.

• If you know before a meeting that you’d like to provide public comment at a HITOC meeting, you can email HITOC.INFO@odhsoha.oregon.gov to sign up.
• If you’d like to provide public comment during the meeting, please type a message in the meeting chat requesting to sign-up for public comment. If you are unable to message, please speak up during the open public comment period.
• Members of the public are asked to comment or post in the chat only during this period, and to keep verbal comments to about 2 minutes.
• Committee members are unlikely to ask questions or respond to public comment directly but give consideration to public comments during committee work.

You can also send written public comment to HITOC.INFO@odhsoha.oregon.gov at any time. To be included in a meeting please submit the comment no less than 2 business days before the intended meeting. Written comment is emailed out and posted as part of meeting materials.

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• CART (live captions)
• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Spencer Rosenau at 541-975-3759, or HITOC.INFO@odhsoha.oregon.gov at least 48 hours before the meeting. OHA will make every effort to provide services for requests made closer to the meeting.

July 30, 2026

Contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Stroke Subcommittee meets Aug. 10

What: The Stroke Subcommittee, one of the three specialty subcommittees of the Oregon Time-Sensitive Medical Emergencies Advisory Committee, is holding its quarterly public meeting. A public comment period is offered at the end of the meeting.

Oregon public meetings law and requirements information

Agenda: Review status of proposed patient definition; discuss regulatory frameworks for stroke hospital categorization; hear regional updates from members.

When: Monday, Aug. 10, 1-3 p.m.

Where: Zoom.

Vacancies: Stroke neurologist supporting a primary stroke center; rehabilitation specialist.

Those interested in filling a vacant position should complete the application form. Applicants from central and southern Oregon are especially encouraged to apply. Questions about the positions and application process can be sent to ogram@odhsoha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">ems.program@odhsoha.oregon.gov.

Background: The Oregon Time-Sensitive Medical Emergencies Advisory Committee was established under the 2024 EMS Modernization Act (HB 4081 | 2024, ORS 682.512) to advise Oregon Health Authority’s Emergency Medical Services Program on regionalization and improvement of care, analysis of time-sensitive emergency data, and identification and resolution of inequities. It convenes three permanent specialty subcommittees on cardiac, stroke, and trauma care.

Contact: Nicole Perkins, EMS operations analyst, OHA Public Health Division, 971-469-2899 or kins@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">nicole.m.perkins@oha.oregon.gov.

###

For people who speak a language other than English or people with disabilities, OHA provides free help to attend the meeting. Some examples include:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• CART captioning
• Braille
• Large print
• Transcripts
• Virtual platform change

If you need help with these or other related services, please contact Stella Rausch-Scott at 503-490-3717 (voice/text) or ausch-scott@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">stella.m.rausch-scott@oha.oregon.gov at least 48 business hours before the meeting. All relay calls are accepted.

To best ensure our ability to provide an accommodation, please contact us even if you are only considering attending the meeting. The earlier you make a request, the more likely we can meet the need.

July 30, 2026

Contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Emergency Medical Services Advisory Committee meets Aug. 12

What: The Oregon Emergency Medical Services Advisory Committee will be holding its quarterly public meeting. A public comment period will be offered at the end of the meeting.

Oregon public meetings law and requirements information

When: Wednesday, Aug. 12, 9 a.m. to noon.

Where: Zoom.

Agenda: Presentations on heated high-flow oxygen for pediatric patient interfacility transports and Emergency Medical Responder renewal data; updates on medical direction; discussion on developing regionalized EMS systems.

Vacancies: None at this time. Those interested in filling future vacancies should complete the application form. Questions about the positions and application process can be sent to ogram@odhsoha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">ems.program@odhsoha.oregon.gov.

Background: The Oregon Emergency Medical Services Advisory Committee was established under the 2024 EMS Modernization Act (HB 4081 | 2024, ORS 682.515) to oversee emergency medical service provision statewide. The Emergency Medical Services Advisory Committee advises Oregon Health Authority’s Emergency Medical Services Program on regionalization and improvement of EMS, including coordination and planning of emergency medical services efforts, and on adoption of rules related to emergency medical services.

Contact: Nicole Perkins, EMS operations analyst, OHA Public Health Division, 971-469-2899 or kins@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">nicole.m.perkins@oha.oregon.gov.

###

For people who speak a language other than English or people with disabilities, OHA provides free help to attend the meeting. Some examples include:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• CART captioning
• Braille
• Large print
• Transcripts
• Virtual platform change

If you need help with these or other related services, please contact Stella Rausch-Scott at 503-490-3717 (voice/text) or ausch-scott@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">stella.m.rausch-scott@oha.oregon.gov at least 48 business hours before the meeting.

All relay calls are accepted.

To best ensure our ability to provide an accommodation, please contact us even if you are only considering attending the meeting. The earlier you make a request, the more likely we can meet the need.

July 30, 2026

Contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Emergency Medical Services for Children Advisory Committee meets Aug. 13

What: The Emergency Medical Services for Children Advisory Committee is holding its quarterly public meeting. A public comment period is offered at the end of the meeting.

Agenda: Stories from the Field; Workgroups: Behavioral Health and Heated High Flow; HERO Kids Informational Interviews: Next Steps; EMSC Program: 2026 National Pediatric Readiness Project Assessment, Peds Ready EMS, HRSA EMSC State Partnership Grant, and NASEMSO Pediatric Emergency Care Council; Grief Resources.

When: Thursday, Aug. 13, 9 a.m. to noon.

Where: Virtual via Zoom.

Join the meeting from your computer, tablet, or smartphone:

https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1609162420?pwd=lxm0DbXbf2XOMElAKiueAhSO98KXK4.1

Meeting ID: 160 916 2420

Passcode: 031557

One tap mobile: +16692545252,,1609162420#

Background: The Emergency Medical Services for Children Advisory Committee provides recommendations to the Oregon Emergency Medical Services for Children Program. For more information, see the Emergency Medical Services for Children Program website at www.oregonemsc.org.

###

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services.  OHA provides free help.  Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Rachel Ford at 971-673-0564, 711 TTY or achel.l.ford@state.or.us" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">rachel.l.ford@oha.oregon.gov at least 48 hours before the meeting.

July 30, 2026

Contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Food Service Advisory Committee to meet Aug. 6

What: The quarterly public meeting of the State Food Service Advisory Committee.

Agenda: Agenda is subject to change and is posted with meeting materials on the Food Service Advisory Committee website at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/HEALTHYENVIRONMENTS/FOODSAFETY/Pages/fsac.aspx prior to the meeting.

There is no public comment period during this meeting.

When: Thursday, Aug. 6, 1-3 p.m. 

Where: Virtual meeting only. All meeting participants, including the public, may join remotely via Teams.

Microsoft Teams meeting

Join on your computer or mobile app

Click here to join the meeting

Meeting ID: 290 075 824 982 Passcode: 4tV5Br

Download Teams | Join on the web

Or call in (audio only)

+1 971-277-2343,,106852255#   United States, Portland

Phone Conference ID: 106 852 255#

Background: The mission of the Food Service Advisory Committee (FSAC) is to assist and advise the Foodborne Illness Prevention Program in achieving its goals; represent the committee’s constituencies; and ensure food safety and the protection of Oregon’s citizens under ORS 624.121.

Are you interested in becoming a member of our Food Service Advisory Committee?  You can find more information and an application on our webpage: https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/HEALTHYENVIRONMENTS/FOODSAFETY/Pages/fsac.aspx

# # #

For people who speak or use a language other than English, people with disabilities or people who need additional support, we can provide free help.  Some examples are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages or transcript
• Braille
• Real-time captioning (CART)
• Large print
• Virtual platform change
• Audio and other formats

This meeting will be virtual only.  This meeting will screen share and use Word documents, PDFs, and PowerPoint presentations. If you need help or have questions, please contact Erica Van Ess at 971-732-6035 or food.safety@oha.oregon.gov.

July 30, 2026

Contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Oregon Psilocybin Advisory Board meets Aug. 7

What: A public meeting of the Oregon Psilocybin Advisory Board

Agenda: TBD

When: Friday, August 7, 9 a.m. to noon.

Where: Via Zoom Meeting:

https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1608015547?pwd=asjh20exc1RllFHGVlYlLN1IBLY76Z.1

Call in: 1-669-254-5252 (US)​

Meeting ID: 160 801 5547

Passcode: 002358

Background: Established by Ballot Measure 109 (2020), the Oregon Psilocybin Advisory Board makes recommendations to OHA on available scientific studies, and research on the safety and efficacy of psilocybin in treating mental health conditions. The Board makes recommendations on the requirements, specifications and guidelines for providing psilocybin services in Oregon.

The Board will also develop a long-term strategic plan for ensuring that psilocybin services will become and remain a safe, accessible and affordable therapeutic option for all persons 21 years of age and older in this state for whom psilocybin may be appropriate; and monitor and study federal laws, regulations and policies regarding psilocybin.

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters.
• Written materials in other languages.
• Braille
• Large print.
• Audio and other formats.

If you need help or have questions, please contact the Oregon Psilocybin Services team at 971-341-1713, 711 TTY, or in@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">OHA.Psilocybin@oha.oregon.gov, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

July 30, 2026

Contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Conference of Local Health Officials, Access to Clinical & Preventative Service Committee meets Aug. 10

What: The monthly public meeting of the Conference of Local Health Officials (CLHO) Access to Clinical & Preventative Service (A2CPS) Committee meeting. 

Agenda: Welcome, roll call; minutes review, approval; A2CPS 2026 workplan review; TCM rate review; committee updates, discussion.

Agenda is subject to change and is posted with meeting materials on the CLHO website at http://www.oregonclho.org/ prior to meeting.

There is no public comment period during this meeting.

When: Monday, Aug. 10, 1-2:30 p.m. 

Where:  This meeting will be a virtual meeting via Teams.

Join on your computer, mobile app or room device

Click here to join the meeting

Meeting ID: 274 495 077 997 Passcode: wZb3x6

Download Teams | Join on the web

Or call in (audio only)

+1 971-277-2343,,777691595#   United States, Portland

Phone Conference ID: 777 691 595#

Find a local number | Reset PIN

For technical assistance, DHS and OHA employees please contact the OIS Service Desk; guests, please click the "Learn more about Teams" link.

Learn More | Meeting options

Background: The Conference of Local Health Officials provides recommendations to Oregon Health Authority on the foundational capabilities and programs and any other public health program or activity under ORS 431.340.

Program contact: Liz Hunt, 503-756-5678, liz.a.hunt@oha.oregon.gov

For people who speak or use a language other than English, people with disabilities or people who need additional support, we can provide free help.  Some examples are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages or transcript
• Braille
• Real-time captioning (CART)
• Large print
• Virtual platform change
• Audio and other formats

This meeting will be virtual only.  This meeting will screen share and use Word documents, PDFs, and PowerPoint presentations.

Please contact Liz Hunt at 503-756-5678 (voice or text) or liz.a.hunt@oha.oregon.gov by Aug. 6 to request an accommodation. We will make every effort to provide services to requests after Aug. 6.  We accept all relay calls. If you need accommodation, please contact us right away even if you are only considering attending. The earlier you make a request the more likely we can meet the need.

July 30, 2026

Contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Public Health Advisory Board Planning Workgroup meets Aug. 6

What: The Public Health Advisory Board Planning Workgroup will hold a meeting.

Agenda: Review PHAB’s existing tools, discuss what shared learning and onboarding supports are needed around equity, review Health System Roles Table, and Public Health Scope Tool.  

When: Thursday, Aug. 6, 2-3 p.m.

The meeting is open to the public. A public comment period will be held at the end of the meeting. Public comments may also be sent in writing to lichealth.policy@odhsoha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">publichealth.policy@odhsoha.oregon.gov.

Where: Microsoft Teams meeting. Join: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/289121913571847?p=09RwZDC6HbDkVVxLhb

Meeting ID: 289 121 913 571 847

Passcode: 2mm6wd23

Background: Oregon’s Public Health Advisory Board provides guidance for Oregon’s governmental public health system and oversees the implementation of public health modernization and Oregon’s State Health Improvement Plan.

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters.
• Written materials in other languages.
• Braille
• Large print.
• Audio and other formats.

If you need help or have questions, please contact Sara Beaudrault at 971-645-5766, 711 TTY, or lichealth.policy@odhsoha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">publichealth.policy@odhsoha.oregon.gov, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

July 30, 2026

Contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Advance Directive Advisory Committee meets Aug. 3

What: The Oregon Advance Directive Advisory Committee will hold a meeting.

Agenda: Review plan language edits and report to legislators.

When: Monday, Aug. 3, 5-7 p.m.

Where: This meeting will be held remotely. An opportunity for public comment is also scheduled.

Join ZoomGov Meeting

Conference call: 16692545252, Meeting ID: 165 378 2565

Passcode: 546765

Background: The Advance Directive Advisory Committee provides guidance to Oregon Health Authority on necessary revisions to Oregon’s Advance Directive form.

# # #

Everyone has a right to know about and use Oregon Health Authority (OHA) programs and services. OHA provides free help. Some examples of the free help OHA can provide are:

• Sign language and spoken language interpreters
• Written materials in other languages
• Braille
• Large print
• Audio and other formats

If you need help or have questions, please contact Charina Walker at 503-314-8605, 711 TTY or ina.walker@oha.oregon.gov" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(6, 66, 118);">charina.walker@oha.oregon.gov at least 48 hours before the meeting.

Expanding financing opportunities to help build more affordable homes across Oregon

SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) just launched its Permanent Loan Program, a new and improved financing tool designed to help affordable housing developments move from construction to completion. By offering competitive, fixed-rate loans, the program fills a critical financing gap, helping developers advance affordable housing projects more efficiently and deliver more homes across Oregon faster. 

“If you were to ask most people across the country what their top concerns are, most would define them by the cost of living,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell. “For too many, it’s keeping them up at night – a home they can afford alongside groceries, gas, and childcare. This program is another way we deliver advanced housing solutions that help make life better.” 

Permanent loans are a unique and mission-driven financing tool, offering fixed-rate, first-lien permanent mortgages for affordable housing at lower interest rates and more flexible terms. Unlike construction financing, these loans fund long-term mortgages with proceeds from tax-exempt bonds once a property is stable and operational. The program includes two products: Elderly and Disabled (E&D) bonds, which serve older adults and people with disabilities, and Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Risk Share, which supports households with low incomes.  

"There are some good loan products with intentional lenders out there, but it's just not enough at this moment. Interest rates remain high and more capital in the system is needed. When the market cannot support affordable housing access for everyone, public funders have a responsibility to step up and step in,” comments Northwest Housing Alternatives Executive Director, Trell Anderson. “This principle is at the heart of gap financing and applies broadly across affordable housing development and asset management.” 

The launch of this reimagined program, which provides direct loans from the state, marks the first time in almost two decades the agency will directly finance long-term mortgages for affordable rental housing development. The program represents the governor’s broader effort to pursue innovative financing solutions and strengthen the state’s ability to address Oregon’s housing needs amid an uncertain federal landscape. 

“As President Trump continues to cut services and makes daily needs less affordable, my administration is prioritizing increasing housing production and expanding ways to finance new housing for Oregonians in every corner of the state,” Gov. Tina Kotek said. “Too many families view stable housing as out of reach—I’m working to change that.” 

OHCS previously issued $589 million in E&D bonds, supporting 355 developments and more than 7,000 units before pausing permanent lending around 2007 due to market conditions and low interest rates. With growing financing gaps in the market and new legislative direction via Senate Bill 684 (2025), the agency has modernized the program by aligning charges with conduits, enhancing underwriting, and forming a specialized credit committee.  

With fixed interest rates lower than comparable private alternatives, the permanent loan program lowers financing costs and boosts project feasibility. By offering flexible prepayment options and allowing mixed-income units, OHCS aims to streamline capital financing for affordable rental housing development and is designed to adapt alongside market shifts.  

Watch this video to see how Oregon is meeting this moment by increasing access to affordable housing through programs including the Permanent Loan Program. 

About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) 

OHCS is Oregon's housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians with low and moderate incomes. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs. 

(SALEM, Ore.) –The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking public comment and will hold a hearing on proposed updates to procurement and contracting rules.

OPRD was exempted from procurement and printing requirements during the 2025 legislative session (SB 838). OPRD adopted initial rules implementing this change in September 2025. The agency adopted additional temporary rules in April 2026 to ensure clarity on construction contracts for public improvement projects and architectural and engineering agreements.

The proposed rules make permanent previously adopted temporary rules and add additional clarity around construction contracting requirements included in Oregon Department of Justice model rules for procurement.

How to submit comments

Public comments on the proposed rule changes will be accepted until Aug. 31, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. You can submit written comments on the rulemaking web page, by email to lic.comment@oprd.oregon.gov">public.comment@oprd.oregon.gov or by mail to:

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department
Attn: Katie Gauthier
725 Summer St. NE, Suite C
Salem, OR 97301

A virtual public hearing will be held on Aug. 24, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. to allow members of the public to provide testimony. Join the hearing via Zoom.

What’s next

Once the public comment period closes, OPRD staff will review all comments, revise the draft rules as appropriate, and present a final proposal to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission for consideration.

For more information, visit the Procurement and Public Contracting rulemaking website.

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is extending its public comment period for proposed updates to the archaeological permit rules until Friday, Aug. 14 at 5 p.m.

The extension is in response to a request from a tribal government, due to the current impacts of wildfires across the state. OPRD first announced the rulemaking on July 1.

How to submit comments

Public comments on the proposed rule changes will be accepted from July 1, 2026 at 8:00 a.m. through Aug. 14, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. You can submit written comments on the rulemaking web page, by email to lic.comment@oprd.oregon.gov">public.comment@oprd.oregon.gov or by mail to:

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department
Attn: Helena Kesch
725 Summer St. NE, Suite C
Salem, OR 97301

What’s next

Once the public comment period closes, OPRD staff will review all comments, revise the draft rules as appropriate, and present a final proposal to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission for consideration.

For more information, visit the rulemaking web page.

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) has approved Lumen Technologies’ revised Safety Audit Compliance Workplan, which lays out the company’s plan to fix outstanding safety issues and meet PUC requirements for safe and reliable telecommunications service.

In approving the plan, commissioners noted Lumen’s repeated delays and inconsistent follow-through on past safety findings. Those slow responses have created a backlog of unresolved violations across the company’s system.

Earlier this year, the Commission directed Lumen to submit a corrective plan after identifying major delays in the company’s response to safety audit report findings from PUC staff. State law requires telecommunications companies to maintain their systems in a condition that ensures safe and reliable service and Commission rules set deadlines for fixing safety concerns.

Lumen submitted an initial plan in May, but staff found it did not meet Commission expectations. Since then, Lumen and PUC staff worked together to improve the plan. The revised version includes specific timelines for correcting National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) violations identified by PUC staff during field audits and finishing outstanding pole transfer work by December 31, 2026.

During the public meeting, utilities that host Lumen attachments on their poles said they continue to see slow responses from Lumen on joint-use safety issues, including work needed on shared poles. Many of the concerns raised go beyond the scope of the PUC’s field audits and raise public safety concerns. Because of this, the Commission directed PUC staff to gather more information on these additional issues and provide a recommendation to address any issues identified.

“This revised plan provides a clear path forward and sets firm expectations for Lumen,” said PUC Chair Letha Tawney. “If Lumen doesn’t follow through and meet the requirements set in the workplan, the Commission will pursue financial penalties. Oregonians deserve safe, reliable service, and we will hold the company accountable.”

By approving the plan, the Commission confirms that the revised plan meets expectations set in the April 14, meeting and outlines the steps needed to resolve the backlog of outstanding issues identified in audits. The Commission will continue monitoring Lumen’s efforts to ensure continued compliance.

Customers who have questions about telecommunications service issues or need help understanding their rights can contact the PUC’s Consumer Services Team at 503-378-6600 or 800-522-2404, TTY or dial 711, or email puc.consumer@puc.oregon.gov.

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Media Resources

Select comments made by Commission Chair Letha Tawney at the public meeting

Link to the full public meeting recording

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) is reminding residential and small commercial customers that Oregon’s regulated electric and natural gas utilities are required to pause service disconnections for non-payment during certain summer weather or air quality conditions, and when customers are under a Level 2 or Level 3 wildfire evacuation notice.

These protections apply to the investor-owned utilities regulated by the PUC, including Portland General Electric (PGE), Pacific Power, Idaho Power, NW Natural, Avista Natural Gas, and Cascade Natural Gas.

The PUC requires these utilities to activate a disconnection moratorium for the following events in the areas they serve:

• Severe air quality events (electric and natural gas):

A moratorium on disconnection for non-payment is required on any day when the Department of Environmental Quality issues an air-quality advisory or when the Air Quality Index (AQI) is forecast to reach 100 or higher. Both electric and natural gas utilities may not disconnect residential or small commercial customers for nonpayment during these conditions.

• Extreme heat events (electric only):

Electric utilities may not disconnect residential customers for non-payment starting 24 hours before an extreme heat warning, extreme heat watch, or heat advisory is forecast. If the heat notice is issued with less than 24 hours’ notice, utilities must immediately pause disconnections once the alert is posted.

• Level 2 or Level 3 wildfire evacuations (electric and natural gas):

Electric and natural gas utilities will make best efforts to avoid disconnecting customers for non-payment when customers are under a Level 2 or Level 3 wildfire evacuation notice by the Oregon Department of Emergency Management. The moratorium begins when the evacuation notice is issued.

Moratoriums generally remain in effect for 48 hours after a qualifying event ends. Customers who were disconnected shortly before a moratorium began may be eligible for no-cost reconnection. Utilities must make best efforts to complete reconnections upon request, and reconnection fees may apply.

PUC Chair Letha Tawney emphasizes the importance of these protections. “The PUC has worked hard to ensure Oregonians are protected during potentially dangerous air quality and heat events or during wildfire evacuations,” she said. “Service disconnections for non-payment during hazardous conditions can put lives at risk. Pausing shutoffs along with Commission required utility assistance programs help keep customers connected when they need it most.”

“As Oregon continues to be challenged by this unprecedented wildfire season, it’s important that services remain connected,” Governor Tina Kotek said. “No Oregonian affected by wildfire should have to face the loss of power during this emergency. My focus continues to remain on protecting lives, supporting communities, and ensuring families can stay safe.”

Utilities may still need to disconnect power to a high risk area during extreme fire weather to prevent ignitions. In those cases, the utility is carefully weighing the risk of a damaging fire against the difficult impacts of an outage on vulnerable communities. The utility will restore power as quickly as is safe to do so.

Customers can contact their utility to learn more about these protections, or to discuss payment plans, discounts for customers with lower incomes and assistance programs if they are behind on their bill. For help connecting with your utility or understanding your rights, contact the PUC’s Consumer Services Team at 503-378-6600 or 800-522-2404, TTY or dial 711, or email puc.consumer@puc.oregon.gov.

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The Oregon State Marine Board held its quarterly hybrid-style board meeting on July 30, in Madras.

In its first agenda item for a vote, the Board approved the following rule language for the Siletz River in Lincoln County:

(6) Siletz River: 

a) No person shall use a motor in excess of 15 horsepower and in excess of slow-no wake speed to propel a boat between Jack Morgan Park boat ramp and Old Mill Park boat ramp. 

b) All motor use is prohibited upstream of Old Mill Park boat ramp. 

c) All motor use is prohibited on all Siletz River tributaries upstream of Jack Morgan's Park boat ramp.

The Board added a fourth component for a smoother rule implementation to avoid negatively impacting anglers and the local community for scheduled angling opportunities this fall and winter: (d) Rule becomes effective on March 31, 2027.

The Board also directed staff to promptly work with the City of Siletz on permitting and facility design improvements at Old Mill Park. Improvements include the parking areas, replacing the boat ramp and adding a new vault toilet. The Board agreed to delegate out-of-cycle funding authority to Director Warren for Old Mill Park’s improvements, with a not-to-exceed amount of $500,000 in boating facility grants. Staff was also directed to develop educational and safety signage in advance of the rule's implementation and to conduct a standard one-year review in 2028 to determine the rule’s effectiveness.

The Board also opened rulemaking for two agenda items:

• Amending personal flotation device (PFD) definitions in Marine Board administrative rules to align with U.S. Coast Guard terminology; and
• Creating a reciprocity rule between Oregon and Idaho Outfitter Guides operating on the Snake River, which intersects both states. The purpose of the rule is to ensure uniformity of laws between Oregon and Idaho, clarifying registration, license, or permit requirements. A reciprocity rule already exists between Oregon and Washington’s border waters.

The Marine Board will issue news releases soliciting written public comments for each item once the Notices of Rulemaking are filed with the Secretary of State’s Office.

The proposed rulemaking language for both items can be found in the Board Book on the Public Meetings page with other materials presented during the meeting.  

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Español a continuación

BENTON COUNTY, Ore.— During Overdose Awareness Month, Benton County Health Department will hold free community events to increase awareness and prevention of drug overdose.

The events coincide with International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD), the world’s largest campaign to end overdose by raising awareness and reducing stigma. International Overdose Awareness Day occurs every year on August 31. This year’s theme, “25 years on. Still needed.", honors the dedication of those who have carried this work over the past 25 years while inviting more people into the conversation. Overdose continues to affect people from all walks of life. The Health Department encourages community members to keep learning, to speak openly, and to act with compassion. 

“Death from drug overdose impacts not only the family and friends of the person lost, but also the broader community,” said Sara Hartstein, Public Health Division Director at Benton County. “This month serves as a reminder that we all have a role to play in preventing overdose deaths. By showing up, working together, and taking action, we can help save lives and support a healthier, more connected community.”

Community members are invited to attend a vigil in Monroe or Corvallis to remember those who have died from overdose and acknowledge the grief of families and friends left behind. The Health Department’s Risk Reduction Program will also offer free trainings in Monroe and Corvallis on how to recognize and respond to an overdose. Free naloxone with be distributed at each event. All four events are open to the public. Details can be found below.

• Corvallis Overdose Recognition and Response Training: August 12, 5:30-7:00 p.m. at 4500 SW Research Way
• Monroe Overdose Awareness Vigil: August 20, 5:30-6:30 p.m. at 648 Orchard Street
• Monroe Overdose Recognition and Response Training: August 21, 5:30-7:00 p.m. at 648 Orchard Street
• Corvallis Overdose Awareness Vigil: August 31, 5:30-6:30 p.m. at 602 SW Madison Avenue

All events will be held in English. For language interpretation services, please email healthdeptcommunications@bentoncountyor.gov.

The Risk Reduction program has been providing free naloxone since March 2020 and recently celebrated six years of community naloxone distribution. Since the program began, staff have given out over 25,000 doses of the life-saving opioid overdose reversal medication.

“There are many scenarios where someone could overdose on opioids,” said Blue Valentine, Risk Reduction Program Coordinator. “For example, accidental overdoses can happen when young people are experimenting with drugs, when someone is using a rapidly changing street supply, or when a person taking prescribed pain medication takes their dose too early.”

“A successful overdose reversal depends on a bystander recognizing the overdose and acting quickly,” said Valentine. “We make sure people have naloxone on hand and know how to use it.”

For those who are unable to attend the upcoming events, free naloxone is still available through the program’s large purple “Naloxone Barney” kiosks. Anyone can take a kit with zero barriers.

Naloxone kiosks are located at:

• Health Services Building in the vestibule near the back parking lot
• Barbara Ross Building on the first floor near the elevators
• Crisis Center Building in the vestibule near the entrance

Community members can also contact the Benton County Risk Reduction Program message line at 541-766-6314 or email iskreduction@bentoncountyor.gov">riskreduction@bentoncountyor.gov for free naloxone and more information.

For more information and resources on overdose prevention visit bit.ly/BentonRiskReduction.

Learn more about International Overdose Awareness Day overdoseday.com.

Benton County Health Department

The Benton County Health Department is committed to protecting the health and well-being of everyone who lives in, works in, or visits Benton County. The Benton County Health Department focuses on preventing health problems before they occur. Their programs strive to create community conditions that help reduce health disparities, so all people have an equal chance for a long and healthy life.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 3, 2026

     MEETING NOTICE

Douglas County Local Public Safety Coordinating Council (LPSCC) Tuesday, August 4, 2026  

(Douglas County, Ore.) The next meeting for the Douglas County Local Public Safety Coordinating Council (LPSCC) will take place on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at 12:00 PM in Room 310 of the Douglas County Courthouse located at 1036 SE Douglas Avenue in Roseburg, Oregon.  

In compliance with ORS 192.610 to 192.690, we will accommodate any member of the public who wishes to watch or listen to the meeting via video or by phone. For information on how you can watch or listen to this meeting, please see the agenda, or contact Koree Tate at koree.tate@douglascountyor.gov or call (541) 957-7790.

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

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

Program Contact: Koree Tate, Programs and Partnership Coordinator | Douglas County Juvenile Department | Phone: (541) 957-7790 | Email: koree.tate@douglascountyor.gov  

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 31, 2026

Commissioners Issue Proclamations for National Coast Guard Day and National Lighthouse Day

(Douglas County, Ore.) Douglas County Commissioners Tom Kress and Tim Freeman were on location in Winchester Bay, Oregon on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, for a special presentation for National Coast Guard Day and National Lighthouse Day.  They issued proclamations and called upon all citizens of Douglas County to honor National Coast Guard Day and National Lighthouse Day in Douglas County.  A copy of the live video presentation can be found on the Douglas County Government Facebook page: //www.facebook.com/DouglasCountyeGovernment.

“On behalf of the Douglas County Board of Commissioners, I want to express our sincere gratitude to the dedicated men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard serving in North Bend, Coos Bay, and at Umpqua River. Your professionalism, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to protecting our waterways and coastal communities do not go unnoticed. We are honored to recognize your service and celebrate alongside you each year,” said Commissioner Kress. “I also want to thank our museum staff, and the many volunteers at the Umpqua River Lighthouse and Coastal History Museum for preserving and sharing the rich maritime history of our region. This incredible facility is a true gem for Douglas County, and it continues to grow as a destination that educates, inspires, and connects visitors to our coastal heritage. We appreciate everyone who helps make Winchester Bay such a special place and look forward to the continued success of this treasured landmark and the surrounding community.”

History celebrates August 4, 1790, as the official birthday of the United States Coast Guard (USCG). On that day President George Washington signed the ‘Tariff Act’, which authorized the Secretary of the Treasury, Alexander Hamilton, to build the first ten cutter vessels to protect the new nation's revenue. Following the Act, the U.S. Revenue Cutter Service, U.S. Life Saving Service, U.S. Bureau of Lighthouses, and Bureau of Marine Inspection and Navigation were created and eventually came together to form the USCG. President Woodrow Wilson signed the “Coast Guard Act” into law on January 28, 1915.  Commissioners recognized the brave men and women of our USCG who protect the personal safety and security of our people; the marine transportation system and infrastructure; our natural and economic resources; the territorial integrity of our nation–from both internal and external threats, natural and man-made and the interests of our navigable waters including U.S. ports, inland waterways, coastlines and international waters.  Commissioner Freeman presented National Coast Guard Day proclamation certificates to USCG Station Umpqua River, USCG Aids to Navigation Team (ANT) in Coos Bay and retired USCG personnel.  Guests at the presentation were treated to a special ‘flyby’ from a MH-65 Short Range Coast Guard Recovery Helicopter that joined us as a part of a training mission from USCG Air Station North Bend.  Thank you, USCG North Bend!

In attendance representing the United States Coast Guard were USCG Station Umpqua River Boatswain's Mate Senior Chief Petty Officer Jared Merloro, Executive Petty Officer and Boatswain's Mate Chief Petty Officer Jonathan Corcoran and several crew members from USCG Station Umpqua River.  Additionally, we recognized USCG Aids to Navigation Team (ANT) Coos Bay Chief Boatswain's Mate Jeremy Bossinger, Officer in Charge and Machinery Technician First Class Donavan Carley.  USCG operates under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and locally they are part of the U.S. Coast Guard Northwest (formerly District 13).  The headquarters of USCG Air Station North Bend and USCG Base North Bend are in North Bend, Oregon and support 153 Active-Duty Personnel, 9 Reserve Personnel, and 5 Civilian Personnel.  USCG Station Umpqua River is located in the fishing community of Winchester Bay and boasts 43 Active-Duty Personnel & 5 Reserve Personnel.  USCG Aids to Navigation Team (ANT) in Coos Bay support 9 Active-Duty Personnel and 1 Reserve Personnel.  If you are interested in learning more about a career in the USCG and perhaps a tour of the facilities, contact Station Umpqua River at (541) 271-2138 or Base North Bend at (541) 756-9220. 

Commissioners also recognized National Lighthouse Day and Week.  National Lighthouse Week and National Lighthouse Day are celebrated in August each year during the week of August 3-7, and on August 7.  237 years ago on August 7, 1789, Congress approved an Act for the establishment and support of lighthouse, beacons, buoys and public piers in the United States.  We are honored to have the 130-year-old, 65-foot-tall Umpqua River Lighthouse, with its first-order, rare and iconic, red and white Fresnel lens, handcrafted in 1890 by Barbier & Cie of Paris, France with twenty-four bullseye panels, consisting of 616 glass prisms proudly shining as a beacon above the coastal shores of Douglas County in Winchester Bay.  The Umpqua River Lighthouse is one of 11 historical lighthouses that have guided ships to safe passage along the Oregon Coast for over 100 years.  The Umpqua River Lighthouse and corresponding lighthouse grounds stand as a testament to the commitment of our community members, County Commissioners, museum employees, foundation members and volunteers, who have all worked painstakingly and passionately over the years to preserve our lighthouse and coastal history.  Commissioner Freeman presented National Lighthouse Day and Week proclamation certificates to staff and volunteers that work to keep our Umpqua River Lighthouse, Coastal History Museum, Gift Shop & Café, Art Gallery and Whale Watching Station open, preserved, and beautiful. 

In attendance representing the Umpqua River Lighthouse were Douglas County Museum Director James Davis; Lighthouse Museum Gift Shop Lead, Ethan VanSyoc; Lighthouse Museum Kitchen Lead, Molly Hottel; Lighthouse Museum Gift Shop, Joshua Adkins; Lighthouse Museum Operations, Dave Carver; Lighthouse Museum Manager, Terry Carver; Gallery Lead, David Marshal; Volunteer Gaylyn Bradley, Volunteer Zena Rilzeff; and Lighthouse Tour Guides - Misty & Larry, Matt & Lori, Joe & Deb, Don & Annita, Cheryl & Ryan, and Dudley & Jenny.  Volunteers are the backbone of our museum operations, for more information about  how you can volunteer at our museums check out our website at https://umpquavalleymuseums.org/ or call the Douglas County Museum at (541) 957-7007.  Also in attendance at the event were City of Reedsport Mayor Linda McCollum, Reedsport City Counciler Cindy Wegner, Douglas County’s Salmon Harbor Marina, Jody Morrow, and Douglas County Facilities, Robert Diaz.  

We were honored to have Gaylin Bradley join us for this special presentation. A longtime volunteer at the Umpqua River Lighthouse, Coastal History Museum, and Douglas County Museum, and former Douglas County employee, Gaylin has played an instrumental role in shaping our museums into the treasured destinations they are today. Her many contributions include designing museum exhibits, researching and developing the lighthouse tours, enhancing the museum grounds through landscaping, leading restoration projects, and serving as a passionate ambassador for our  Coastal History Museum, Umpqua River Lighthouse and Douglas County Museum.  “I happened to be working for the Douglas County Parks Department when the last of the Coast Guard lighthouse keepers left.  I was recruited to help establish the Museum, programs, and grounds.  It was a wonderful time in my life and I thoroughly enjoyed it – and still do to this day,” stated Gaylyn.

Joining us again this year was the Fox Family.  They returned for a family reunion this year.  Last year Melanie Smiley-Ybarra stopped and donated a special quilt honoring her family’s long-standing connection with the U.S. Coast Guard. The quilt, lovingly crafted by her mother, Lira Fox Hibbon-Owen, with help from other Fox family members, has been passed down through generations. They felt the museum was a fitting final home for this heirloom. Melanie’s grandfather, Myron L. Fox, was stationed at USCG Umpqua River during the 1940s–50s. Her mother, Lira, grew up in the nearby Coast Guard barracks and recalled helping to clean the red and white glass prisms of the lighthouse. The family's service continued through Myron’s grandson, Petter Hibbon, and nephew, Norn Chapman, who also served in the USCG. The quilt displayed at the museum stands as a heartfelt tribute to their legacy.

The proclamations presented in Winchester Bay are a reminder to our residents to thank the brave men and women of our United States Coast Guard for their valued service to our country and our citizens, and to ask that you check out our “gem” on the coast, the Umpqua River Lighthouse, Coastal History Museum, Gift Shop & Café, Art Gallery and Whale Watching Station in beautiful Winchester Bay.

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Media Contact: Tamara Howell, Chief Public Information Officer | Douglas County Public Affairs Office | Office: (541) 957-4896 | Email: a.howell@douglascountyor.gov">tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov

Proclamations and Photo Collages Attached.  Photos ©K.Rodriguez/Douglas County. Individual photos available upon request

Lane County Land Management has been made aware of a scam email targeting people involved in active land use applications. The email (attached) asks for additional fees to be paid via wire transfer to finalize approval of a special use permit.

“These scammers are particularly good at mimicking a lot of the language and terms we use when communicating with applicants and others involved in a land use process,” said Lane County Land Management Division Manager Keir Miller. “Please remember that we will never ask for a wire transfer of funds and that it is okay to call us first to confirm something is legitimate. Trust your gut.”

The email references specific permit numbers and attempts to impersonate a real Lane County employee, but there are portions that should cause a reader to question the email’s legitimacy, including:

• the originating email shows up as “UnileverServices@mail.com” rather than a real Lane County email.
• asking for payment via a non-refundable and unusual method (wire transfers).
• demanding all communication be conducted via email.

Lane County NEVER accepts payment via wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or gift cards. Lane County NEVER asks you for financial information such as bank account numbers, PIN numbers, investment accounts, or access codes.

Although the current scam is targeting residents that have applied for land use permits, other jurisdictions have reported similar scams involving building and sanitation permits. Remember – when in doubt, reach out and confirm the request is legitimate.  

Other signs of a scam from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau include:

• Asking you to pay money or taxes upfront to receive a prize or a gift.
• Pressuring you to act right away by telling you the deal won’t last or doesn’t give you time to ask questions.
• Creating a sense of urgency or emergency to play on your emotions to get you to act quickly.

People can protect themselves by slowing down and verifying requests. Do not click on links, scan QR codes or download attachments in messages you don’t recognize, weren’t expecting or do not trust. Do not use the contact information provided by the possible scammer; call the organization using their official phone number or website.

If others have been targeted by this scam, please consider contacting Lane County Land Management at 541-682-4065 to help build an understanding of how active this scam is in our community.

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EUGENE, Ore.—A Springfield, Oregon man was sentenced to federal prison today for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford.

Robert Eugene Josh Jr, 65, was sentenced to 51 months in federal prison and 3 years’ supervised release. 25 months of the sentence was ordered to be served consecutively to a separate case.

According to court documents, in January 2024, Josh Jr. possessed almost three pounds of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it. In late January 2024, as part of a larger federal and state investigation, Eugene Police Department officers stopped Josh Jr.’s vehicle and located almost three pounds of methamphetamine. Josh Jr. told the officers he purchased the methamphetamine, was acting as a middleman, and was going to sell it to somebody else for a profit. Josh Jr. was also arrested for a shooting as part of a drug deal gone bad. Josh Jr. was convicted in Marion County Circuit Court of attempted assault I and unlawful use of a weapon. He was sentenced to 60 months in prison related to the shooting.

On May 5, 2026, Josh Jr. pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

On June 20, 2024, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned an indictment charging Josh Jr. with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the Eugene Police Department and the Springfield Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeff Sweet.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

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PORTLAND, Ore.—A Carlton, Oregon man was sentenced to federal prison today for 8 counts of production of child sexual abuse material announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford.

Robert Koester, 59, was sentenced to 40 years in federal prison and lifetime supervised release.

“Koester’s crimes against children are among the worst this district has seen. His violent abuse of these girls created scars they will carry their entire lives, and the images of that abuse will haunt them. I hope today’s sentence brings a measure of justice and healing for the victims. I am grateful for the work of the many investigative agencies that worked tirelessly to bring this terror against these teens to an end. The sentence of 40 years provides safety to Oregon and California and is emblematic of the violent crimes he committed,” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

“Today’s sentence underscores how seriously the FBI and our partners take crimes against children,” said FBI Portland Special Agent in Charge Doug Olson. “Koester used his role as a photographer to gain the trust of young people who were simply looking for a chance to pursue their dreams, and he exploited that trust. The courage these victims showed in coming forward made this outcome possible, and we stand with them as they continue to heal. We’re grateful for the work of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon in bringing this case to the finish line. What happened here caused real harm, and there is no place for this behavior in our community.”

According to court documents, Koester used his professional position as a photographer to meet and earn the trust of teenage girls who were pursuing careers in modeling. He exploited that trust by drugging, molesting, strangling, and raping the victims. He recorded much of this abuse and sold the child sexual abuse material (CSAM) to others.

Koester was a professional photographer who took photographs of aspiring models and did photography work for modeling agencies. Over the course of four years, from early 2015 through late 2018, Koester lured numerous teenage girls to his residence and other locations across California and Oregon. He enticed the girls with the promise of a career in the fashion industry through his modeling agency, Frank Model Management. He encouraged them to travel to his residence in Oregon, even paying for their flights. The children would stay in his residence for multiple days and participate in photo shoots.

During this time, Koester offered the victims alcohol and drugs, including marijuana and cocaine. He coerced them to do nude photo shoots by first showing them images of naked models, then convincing them to remove their clothes. He photographed the victims in revealing positions, sometimes using hidden cameras to capture more explicit angles without the victims’ knowledge. Koester further used GHB and other intoxicants to drug the girls, rendering them unconscious. He then abused the unconscious children sexually and physically and recorded the assaults. Koester often became violent in these assaults, strangling and slapping the girls. After the drugged assaults, he left the victims to wake up alone. Some of the victims were also coerced into engaging in sexual acts with him while awake. He recorded this abuse as well. Koester maintained a large collection of this self-produced CSAM, which included thousands of images. Koester was in his late forties and early fifties when these crimes occurred, and the girls were as young as fifteen.

Multiple children reported that Koester showed them the images of their own abuse and laugh while displaying the images of the abusive acts to them.  

In addition to criminally prosecuting Koester, the U.S. Attorney’s Office forfeited his Oregon residence in a civil forfeiture case, netting $750,000 in the sale. The criminal case also forfeited a large amount of photographic and digital equipment.

On November 13, 2018, Koester was arrested by California authorities.

Koester has pleaded guilty to related conduct in San Diego, California, and was sentenced to 25 years in prison. 

Koester also pleaded guilty to related conduct in Yamhill County, Oregon, and was sentenced to 50 years in prison.  He will serve those sentences concurrently with the federal sentence imposed today.

On July 16, 2019, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a 6-count indictment charging Koester with production of child sexual abuse material.

On August 19, 2020, Oregon adopted, from the District of Southern California, a 2-count information charging Koester with production of child sexual abuse material.

On March 10, 2026, Koester pleaded guilty to all 8 counts of production of child sexual abuse material in the two federal cases.

This case was investigated by FBI San Diego, FBI Portland, Carlsbad Police Department, and Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gary Sussman, Kate Rochat, Mira Chernick, and Julia Jarett.

This case was brought in collaboration with Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

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.

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.

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PORTLAND, Ore.—A Umatilla County man was sentenced to federal prison today for interference with commerce by robbery, felon in possession of a firearm with an armed career criminal enhancement, and attempt to commit murder.

Javier Vigil, 55, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison and 5 years’ supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $2,040.71 in restitution to the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Reservation.

“Vigil gambled and lost when he chose to rob this casino with a gun. His violent actions endangered innocent employees, patrons, and a law enforcement officer. He deserved and received the full consequences under federal law. Our tribal communities are incredibly important to me, and I will use every available federal resource to protect them and pursue justice on their behalf. I am also extremely grateful to the law enforcement officer, who risked his life that day to stop this defendant from harming anyone else.” Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney

According to court documents, on August 17, 2022, Javier Vigil went to the Wildhorse Resort and Casino on the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, in Pendleton, Oregon and passed a note demanding $1,000,000 from the cash cage teller. He then drew a pistol and pointed it at the teller. While the tellers gathered cash, he made threatening statements.

After he received over $69,000, he walked out of the casino.

Upon seeing a tribal police officer Vigil raised his firearm and shot at the officer.

Vigil and the officer exchanged gunfire, which resulted in Vigil being shot and falling to the ground. Vigil was then arrested on federal charges for this crime. A bystander outside the casino was also injured from a stray bullet.

Investigators learned that Vigil acquired the firearm around August 3, 2022, about two weeks prior to the robbery and shooting.

On December 19, 2023, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a 6-count superseding indictment charging Vigil with interference with commerce by robbery, two counts of use and carry of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, felon in possession of a firearm with an armed career criminal enhancement, attempt to commit murder, and assault with a dangerous weapon.

On April 7, 2026, on the second day of trial, Vigil pleaded guilty to interference with commerce by robbery, felon in possession of a firearm with an armed career criminal enhancement, and attempt to commit murder.

This case was investigated by the FBI and the Umatilla Tribal Police Department, with the assistance of ATF, the Hermiston Police Department, the Pendleton Police Department, Oregon State Police, Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office, and Morrow County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cassady Adams and Arin Heinz prosecuted the case.

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PORTLAND, Ore. - A federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment charging an Oregon Department of Corrections Officer with cyberstalking his ex-girlfriend from January 2024 to October 2024.

According to court documents, following a breakup with the victim, Jack Daniel Rowlett, 46, created fake social media profiles on Facebook, posing as other men. Using the fake profiles, Rowlett posted offensive and degrading claims about the victim, including false claims about the victim’s sexual history with the men depicted in the fake accounts. The posts caused the victim significant emotional distress and reputational harm. When the victim sought a protective order in state court against Rowlett for making the harassing posts, Rowlett fought the protective order and denied responsibility for the conduct. Through the federal investigation Rowlett has now been linked to the posts he denied responsibility for.

Rowlett made his initial appearance in federal court today before a U.S. magistrate judge. He was arraigned, pleaded not guilty, and ordered released pending further court proceedings.

If convicted, Rowlett faces a maximum of five years in federal prison, one year of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000.

The FBI investigated the case. The Oregon Department of Corrections cooperated in the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Arin C. Heinz and Natasha M. Geiling are prosecuting the case.

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OnPoint is matching donations during the KGW School Supply Drive, helping provide essential supplies to students and classrooms across Oregon and Southwest Washington

PORTLAND, Ore. – OnPoint Community Credit Union will begin accepting school supply donations during the month of August to help local teachers and students. The credit union will distribute donations with the help of Schoolhouse Supplies, a local nonprofit that provides free school supplies to under-resourced students and classrooms across the Portland area. OnPoint will also give an additional $5 for every $1 donated to the KGW School Supply Drive at any OnPoint branch between August 1-7, 2026.

The drive, which runs from August 1-31, 2026, aims to send 15,000 students across Oregon and Southwest Washington back to school with the tools they need to succeed in the classroom. All donations will stay in the community in which they are made.   

"Every student deserves to walk into the classroom feeling prepared for the year ahead," said Rob Stuart, president and chief executive officer, OnPoint Community Credit Union. "When our community comes together for this annual drive, we're helping remove barriers to learning and giving students the opportunity to focus on what matters most. By partnering with Schoolhouse Supplies, we can reach even more local students and teachers. We encourage our members and neighbors to join us in making a difference."

As part of this year's drive, OnPoint will host a collection event where the community can drop off new school supplies and cash donations at its Reed’s Crossing Branch (7833 SE Blanton Street, Hillsboro, OR 97129). To learn more or review other drop-off locations, please visit KGW.com/School.

OnPoint Collection Event:

• Friday, August 14, 2026
• 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
• Drop-off location: Reed’s Crossing Branch
• Look for the Schoolhouse Supplies/OnPoint table in the parking lot outside the branch.

"We’ve seen how much of a burden purchasing school supplies can be for some families," said Alice Forbes, executive director, Schoolhouse Supplies. "Community support through this drive helps ease that burden and gives students the opportunity to begin the school year feeling prepared and confident. We are thankful for OnPoint’s ongoing partnership and for bringing our community together to support local students."

Learn more about Schoolhouse Supplies and its mission to equip as many local families as possible with the school supplies they need to succeed.

OnPoint donation up to $20,000.

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About OnPoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in Oregon, serving more than 656,000 members throughout Oregon and southwest Washington. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 33 Oregon counties (Baker, Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Malheur, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Umatilla, Union, Wallowa, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and who lives, works, worships, or attends school in one of four Washington counties (Clark, Cowlitz, Lewis, and Skamania), 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.

Federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Opportunity.

ROSEBURG, Ore., July 31, 2026 — Rogue Credit Union is expanding its support of Umpqua Community College’s efforts to create opportunities for students, families and residents throughout Douglas County through a new five-year partnership.

Established July 14, 2026, the partnership will support UCC’s new track and field facility and further the college’s work to provide welcoming spaces where students and community members can learn, compete, connect and thrive. The track will be recognized as the UCC Track & Field Complex Sponsored by Rogue Credit Union.

The agreement builds on a long-standing relationship between the two organizations and reflects their shared commitment to education, student success, community well-being and expanding access to opportunities that improve quality of life throughout the region.

“Rogue Credit Union has been a valued partner to UCC and our students for many years,” said UCC President Rachel Pokrandt. “This expanded partnership reflects a shared investment in Douglas County. While the track will provide an outstanding venue for our student-athletes, its greatest impact will be felt across the community as a welcoming space for youth programs, local events, recreation and opportunities that bring people together for years to come. We are grateful for Rogue’s continued commitment to youth, families, and education.”

Rogue Credit Union’s support of UCC extends across the student experience. Its long-standing relationship with the college includes an on-campus student branch, classroom-based financial education and a co-branded student debit card discount program. Rogue has also supported UCC Athletics through game-day activities and promotional giveaways and has been a consistent sponsor of the UCC Foundation’s annual Legacy Ball.

The expanded partnership will help UCC establish a community asset that serves far more than collegiate athletics. The new facility will offer opportunities for K-12 competitions, youth programming, community recreation, campus events and regional gatherings, helping residents of all ages stay active, build connections and celebrate together.

“Rogue Credit Union is proud to expand our partnership with Umpqua Community College,” said President/CEO Matt Stephenson. “Supporting the UCC Track aligns with our commitment to strengthening the communities we serve. We’re excited to help create a space that will inspire students, welcome families and provide opportunities for people throughout Douglas County to gather, compete and stay active.”

UCC will celebrate the grand opening of the track and field facility on Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026. The celebration will feature activities for all ages, a community ribbon-cutting ceremony and opportunities for visitors to experience the new facility firsthand. Additional event details will be announced soon.

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

About Rogue Credit Union
Rogue Credit Union is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative with an asset base of over $4.3 billion and a loan portfolio of over $2.6 billion. At Rogue, membership is about more than an auto loan or checking account. It’s about offering a higher level of service to over 245,000 members. Rogue is committed to helping its members along the way and making local communities better for everyone. Membership with Rogue is open to anyone who lives, works, worships or attends school in select Oregon, Idaho and California counties. Visit any branch or go to roguecu.org to become a part of something bigger. 

North Bend School District Public Meetings – August 2026

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

August 6, 2026

Executive Session

Technology Building at 5:00 p.m.

2525 Pacific Street, North Bend, OR

To review and evaluate the employment - related performance of the chief executive officer of any public body, a public officer, employee or staff member who does not request an open hearing. ORS 192.660 (2)(i)

Representatives of the news media and designated staff shall/shall not be allowed to attend. All other members of the audience are asked to leave the room. Representatives of the news media are specifically directed to not report on any of the deliberations during the executive session, except to state the general subject of the session as previously announced. No decision may be made in executive session, except for a student expulsion. At the end of the executive session, we will return to open session.

"Shall not" refers to the four exceptions: student expulsions, consultation with labor negotiators, discussing student medical or educational records, and cases in which they or their media organization are involved in litigation with the district that will be discussed during the executive session.

August 6, 2026

Regular Board Meeting

Technology Building at 6:00 p.m.

2525 Pacific Street, North Bend, OR

DOORS WILL OPEN AT 5:45PM

H.O.P.E. Drug Court Participant Hosts Community Car Wash Fundraisers

Donations will support first aid kits for local businesses and community members in need

ROSEBURG, Ore. — August 3, 2026 — A participant in the Douglas County H.O.P.E. Drug Court program will host two donation-based car washes to raise funds for first aid kits that will be distributed to local businesses. The kits will be kept on hand to assist customers, community members and others who may need basic first aid supplies.

The car washes will be held:

Sunday, August 9, 2026
 

Sunday, August 30, 2026
 

11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Big O Tires
2545 NW Stewart Parkway
Roseburg, Oregon

There is no set charge for a vehicle wash, and donations of any amount will be gratefully accepted.

The fundraisers are part of a participant-led community service project connected to a Resource Day event planned for September 15. The project provides the participant with an opportunity to give back to the community while helping local businesses become better prepared to respond when someone needs basic first aid assistance.

Community members are also invited to attend the 114th H.O.P.E. Drug Court Graduation on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 5:15 p.m. The ceremony will be held at the Douglas County Fairgrounds in Cascade Hall.

The graduation ceremony recognizes participants who have worked diligently to overcome challenges, maintain their recovery and successfully complete the requirements of the H.O.P.E. Drug Court program. The community is encouraged to attend, celebrate the graduates and hear about the accomplishments, perseverance and hard work that brought them to this important milestone.

For more information or to contribute, community members are encouraged to participate in the listed event.  Graduate flyers and additional information about the H.O.P.E. Drug Court program are available through the Douglas County website via the Local Public Safety Coordinating Council (LPSCC) at: https://douglascountyor.gov/851/HOPE-Drug-Court

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Award-Winning Capital City Retro Fest Returns to Salem Aug. 14-16

Three-night, all-ages music festival returns to Riverfront Park following Oregon Festivals & Events Association Music Festival of the Year honor.

SALEM, Ore. – August 4, 2026 — After earning the Oregon Festivals & Events Association's Music Festival of the Year award following its inaugural season, Capital City Retro Fest returns to the Gerry Frank | Salem Rotary Amphitheater Aug. 14-16 for three nights of live music, food and family-friendly entertainment.

The festival features nine tribute bands celebrating the music of artists including the Fleetwood Mac, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Def Leppard, Foo Fighters, Tom Petty, Alanis Morissette, Duran Duran, U2, Hall & Oates and the Doobie Brothers.

Presented by Harefest, LLC, the festival offers an affordable outdoor concert experience in the scenic setting of Salem's Riverfront Park, bringing together music fans of all ages for a weekend celebrating some of the most recognizable songs in rock history.

Beyond the music, attendees can enjoy local food vendors, alcoholic beverages for guests 21 and over, misting tents, free water refill stations, family-friendly activities, and the festival's interactive photo stage, where fans can grab an instrument and capture their own rock star moment.

"There's something special about hearing thousands of people sing along to songs they've loved for decades," said Jason Fellman, co-founder of Harefest, LLC. "Capital City Retro Fest brings generations together through music that's stood the test of time, all in one of the most beautiful outdoor settings in Oregon."

The festival was created to provide an accessible, high-quality live music experience in downtown Salem while contributing to the city's growing lineup of summer events. Organizers expect attendees from throughout the Willamette Valley and beyond to gather at Riverfront Park for the second annual celebration.

Festival gates open Friday and Saturday at 6:00 p.m. with music beginning at 7:00 p.m. Sunday's gates open at 4:00 p.m. with music beginning at 5:00 p.m.

Tickets are on sale now. Single-day and three-day passes are available, and children 12 and under are admitted free with a paid adult.

For tickets and complete festival information, visit CapCityRetro.com.  

About Harefest, LLC

Harefest, LLC produces live music festivals and entertainment experiences throughout the Pacific Northwest, including HAREFEST: The Mother of All Tribute Festivals, Capital City Retro Fest, Legends Reloaded, 90's Flannel Fest, and Seattle Retro Fest. The company is dedicated to creating memorable live music experiences that bring communities together through the music they love.

Media Contact

Jason Fellman
Harefest, LLC
canbyharefest@gmail.com