FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 22, 2026

 

Commissioners Issue Proclamation for National Child Care Provider Appreciation Day

 

(Douglas County, Ore.) – Douglas County Board of Commissioners Tom Kress, Chris Boice, and Tim Freeman were pleased to issue a proclamation in honor of National Child Care Provider Appreciation Day during their weekly business meeting on Wednesday, April 22, 2026.  The proclamation recognized that observing this day offers an important opportunity to express gratitude to childcare educators, teachers, centers, and home-based caregivers in Douglas County, across the United States, and around the world. These professionals are dedicated to creating safe, nurturing, and enriching environments where children can learn, grow, and thrive.  It also highlighted the vital role childcare professionals play in fostering children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development, helping prepare them for success in school and in life. Additionally, they are an essential part of Douglas County’s workforce, economy, and community infrastructure, supporting economic stability by enabling businesses to retain employees and contributing to a productive, resilient local workforce. A copy of the live video from the presentation can be found on the Douglas County Government Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/DouglasCountyeGovernment.

 

Established by the National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) in 1995, National Child Care Provider Appreciation Day is observed annually on the Friday before Mother’s Day to recognize and honor the invaluable contributions of childcare providers, teachers, and early childhood educators.  In 2026, National Child Care Provider Appreciation Day will be celebrated on Friday, May 8.

 

Commissioner Kress opened the proclamation presentation by thanking the full room of attendees for their dedication to supporting children, families, and businesses throughout Douglas County and stated, “On behalf of the Douglas County Board of Commissioners, it is our pleasure to welcome you to this special gathering in recognition of National Child Care Provider Appreciation Day.  Today, we are here to say thank you, not just in words, but in recognition of the lasting impact you have on our community. Your dedication does not go unnoticed, and your contributions truly make Douglas County a stronger, more vibrant place to live and work.  We are honored to celebrate you. Today is about more than recognition—it is about connection. It is about taking a moment, in the midst of busy schedules and long days, to pause and acknowledge the people who make it possible for our families, businesses, and communities to function and thrive. Childcare providers are often the quiet backbone of our local economy—showing up early, staying late, and giving their full attention, care, and heart to the children entrusted to them.”

 

Commissioner Chris Boice read the official proclamation, followed by Commissioner Freeman recognizing the attending guests with National Child Care Provider Appreciation Day proclamation certificates, honoring their unwavering dedication to the children and families of Douglas County.  Attending the proclamation presentation today was Julie Hurley, Douglas ESD; Heather Freilinger, Douglas ESD/Child Care Resource & Referral/Care Connection; Nicole Martin, Douglas ESD/Child Care Resource & Referral; Harrison Bent, Douglas ESD; Danielle McKiddy, Douglas ESD/Child Care Resource & Referral; Cherry Camonayan, Douglas ESD/Child Care Resource & Referral; Robin VanWinkle, Douglas ESD Early Learning/Biz4Kids/Douglas County Childcare Coalition; Sarah Wheelock, Douglas ESD Early Learning/Biz4Kids/Douglas County Childcare Coalition; Michelle Bassett, Douglas ESD/Care Connections & Education; Barbara Lynch, Douglas ESD/Child Care Resource & Referral/ Care Connections & Education; Sarah Pytalski, The Ford Family Foundation; Michelle Martin, The Ford Family Foundation; Kelly Warner, The Ford Family Foundation; Brian Warner, The Ford Family Foundation; Natasha Atchison, Umpqua Homes Inc; Sheila Ullom, CCPT/CPCC/Lily’s Pad Childcare; Rochelle Van Slyke, YMCA of Douglas County; Aimee Tenbrook, UCAN Head Start; Carissa Bent, COBB Children’s Learning Center; Scott Swanson, COBB Children’s Learning Center; Anne-Marie Halloway, Miss Ann’s Kiddie Corner; Dana Garza, Country Kids Christian Learning Academy; Debi Hollander, Umpqua Health Alliance; Joy Whitcomb, Phoenix Early Learning Center; Jennifer Taylor, Phoenix Early Learning Center; Sidnee Hedrick, Adapt Integrated Health Care; Theresa Tucky, Child Care Resource & Referral and Troy Johns, Boys & Girls Club of Umpqua Valley. 

 

Commissioner Kress then invited guests up to the podium and talk about the work they do in our community.  “I have worked in early learning for over 30 years, and I can say with certainty that childcare and early learning are not peripheral to a community, they are foundational.  I am honored to represent the Child Care Resource & Referral Center here in Douglas County and work alongside Robin VanWinkle whose leadership and collaboration continue to strengthen childcare advocacy in our community.  Across all childcare program types, providers nurture children’s growth, ensure their safety, partner with families, meet licensing and training requirements and manage complex operations – often while navigation staffing challenges and limited resources.  Across all settings, early learning does not just happen, it’s intentionally designed, carefully supported and made possible through ongoing training relationships and experience.  We see how essential it is to invest in this workforce, not only through funding but through respect, visibility and partnership.  Children benefit when providers are supported.  Families benefit when childcare is stable and accessible.  And communities benefit when the early learning system is strong.  Today’s proclamation sends an important message, that childcare and early learning matter in Douglas County.  Commissioners, we are grateful for this proclamation and even more grateful for the people it honors.” - Heather Freilinger, Douglas ESD, Child Care Resource & Referral, and Douglas County Child Care Coalition.

 

“Today’s proclamation is a powerful reminder that our community sees the value of early childhood education and the people that make it possible.  When we support childcare providers, we are supporting families, strengthening our workforce, and investing in the future of our community.  To our Commissioners, community leaders and partners, thank you for taking the time to recognize this work and for standing with us.  It is truly an honor to be part of this field and this community.” - Aimee Tenbrook, UCAN Head Start Program.

 

“As a working parent here in Douglas County, childcare isn’t just a convenience for my family, it is essential.  Beyond that, what matters the most to me is not just that care exists, it is the quality of that care.  Every day we bring our son to people that don’t just watch him, they teach him, comfort him, play with him and help him grow.  They are part of his development, his sense of safety, and his early understanding of the world,” – Sidnee Hedrick, ADAPT Integrated Healthcare and the Douglas County Child Care Coalition. 

 

“When I became HR Director, I wanted to do something for our employees regarding childcare.  We have about 500 employees, and I have always had the idea of opening an on campus childcare facility.  I never got any traction with that idea until this present Board of Commissioners.  This is beyond just a proclamation today, beyond just words this is actually an action they put in place.  Not only did they say this was a good idea, but they also said, ”How can we help and how can we make this happen?”  So, we now have an on-campus Child Care Provider that provides great quality childcare that is affordable, accessible and a great advantage to our employees.” - Michael Kurtz, Douglas County Human Resources Director.

 

“Thank you Commissioners.  It is with a lot of gratitude that we get to come here today.  The word unbelievable comes up a lot.  But I think when you meet the people who are involved in providing and supporting childcare in this community the word changes to believable.  The passion and the care that the professionals in this room provide through the Douglas County Child Care Coalition is just really incredible and off the charts.  You recognizing this group and bringing attention to this effort is so important.  It is often the first question that people who want to move to our community ask.” – Troy Johns, Boys & Girls Club of Umpqua Valley. 

 

“When I was leaving the legislature and getting ready to start as a County Commissioner, I had an opportunity to request a State Commission appointment and I requested to be on the State’s Early Learning Council.  I selected that council because I knew that no matter what the importance of the justice system and everything else in our community, if we could not find solutions for families with young children, the rest did not matter.  I was privileged to serve on the Early Learning Council for a while and in that time, I learned a lot, especially the importance of the work you all do every day.  So, I sincerely thank you for doing that work.” – Commissioner Tim Freeman.   

 

The Commissioners proclaimed Friday, May 8, 2026, as National Child Care Providers Day in Douglas County and encourage all residents to recognize and thank childcare providers for their dedication, professionalism, and the vital role they play in supporting children, strengthening families, and building a brighter future for our community.

 

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Media Contact: Tamara Howell, Chief Public Affairs Officer | Douglas County Public Affairs Office | Office: (541) 957-4896 |

Cell: (541) 670-2804 | Email: a.howell@douglascountyor.gov">tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov

 

Proclamation and Photo Collage Attached.  Individual photos are available upon request. Photo © K.Rodriguez/Douglas County

 

PORTLAND, Ore.— Every April, the Justice Department’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) leads communities across the country in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week to honor crime victims, promote their rights, and recognize victim advocates. This year’s observance, the 45th annual commemoration, takes place April 19-25, 2026, with the theme: “Listen. Act. Advocate. Protect victims, serve communities.”

 

The U.S. Attorney’s Office joins its federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement partners in taking this opportunity to highlight the importance of providing necessary services at the earliest possible stages of victimization, investigations, and prosecutions. Early intervention helps prevent further victimization and encourages victim involvement in the criminal justice system, mitigating the cycle of violence and restoring hope for the future.

 

“We remain steadfast in our mission to protect the rights of crime victims,” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “My office will continue to vigorously advocate for crime victims and ensure justice is sought on their behalf.”

 

Over the last several months, the District of Oregon has prosecuted a number of victim-focused cases including:

• United States v. Hugo Gomez-Soto: A federal jury in Portland found Hugo Gomez-Soto guilty for distributing fentanyl that resulted in the fatal overdose death of a Portland, Oregon, man.
• United States v. Javier Francisco Vigil: Javier Francisco Vigil pleaded guilty on the second day of trial to attempted murder of a police officer, robbery, and felon in possession of a firearm (Armed Career Criminal Act) related to an armed robbery of the Wildhorse Resort and Casino on the Umatilla Indian Reservation in 2022.
• United States v. Misael Flores Ramirez: Misael Flores Ramirez was sentenced to over 21 years in federal prison for sexually exploiting multiple minors online and receiving sexually explicit images and videos of the minor victims.
• United States v. Daniel Andrew McGee: Daniel Andrew McGee was sentenced to over 12 years in federal prison for a federal hate crime after assaulting a victim on the basis of their sexual orientation.
• United States v. Eric Lamont Harris: Eric Lamont Harris pleaded guilty on day four of his jury trial and was sentenced to over 24 years in federal prison for sex trafficking three minors.
• United States v. Steven Daniel Griswold: Steven Daniel Griswold was sentenced to over 21 years in federal prison for ordering live-streamed child sexual abuse material from child sex traffickers in the Philippines in exchange for money.
• United States v. Michael Cambalik: Michael Cambalik was sentenced to over 33 years in federal prison for coercion and enticement of a minor after he directed the minor victim to send him child sexual abuse material.
• United States v. Harold Charley: Harold Charley was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for sexually abusing two minors on the Warm Springs Indian Reservation.
• United States v. Kenneth Green: Kenneth Green was sentenced to over 12 years in federal prison for ordering live-streamed child sexual abuse and traveling to the Philippines to engage in illicit sexual activity while working as a firefighter for the Lake Oswego Fire Department.

Additionally, in the past year, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for District of Oregon has collected more than $20 million through criminal and civil actions, much of which is used to pay restitution to victims and to fund federal and state victim compensation and assistance programs.

 

During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, victim advocacy organizations, community groups and state, local, and tribal agencies host rallies, candlelight vigils, and other events to raise awareness of victims’ rights and services.

 

OVC and U.S. Attorney’s Offices encourage widespread participation in the week’s events and in other victim-related observances throughout the year. For additional information about this year’s National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and how to assist victims in your community, please visit OVC’s website at www.ovc.gov. For ongoing updates from OVC and ideas for how you can support crime victims throughout the year, please subscribe to OVC’s email notifications at https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw/subscribe/.

 

If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, please call 911. If you believe you have been the target or victim of a crime, please contact your local law enforcement agency or your nearest FBI field office immediately. The FBI Portland Field Office can be reached at (503) 224-4181 or by submitting tips online at tips.fbi.gov.

 

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ODHS shares how Oregonians can regain SNAP benefits as impacts of federal work rule changes begin to show

CORRECTION:

This news release has been corrected to reflect the accurate numbers of cases and individuals impacted in March and April. We apologize for the confusion.

 

In late March, 13,399 cases closed, affecting 13,898 individual SNAP recipients, after people did not meet work rules or qualify for an exemption. Those cases include 13,898 individual SNAP recipients. As a result, they did not receive April benefits.

 

The initial news release said that 13,898 cases closed at the end of March.

 

In April, 6,948 additional cases are at risk of closing at the end of the month, affecting 6,948 individual SNAP recipients.

 

Note: Most, but not all, individuals with ABAWD status are on single-person SNAP cases, so the number of cases and individuals may differ.

 

Salem, Ore. — As the impacts of recent federally-directed changes to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) work rules begin to show in Oregon, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is sharing information to help people who have lost benefits, or may lose them soon, understand how they may be able to get them back.

 

The federal bill HR1 significantly expanded SNAP work rules, increasing the number of Oregonians subject to time limits. More adults must now meet SNAP work rules to continue receiving benefits. People who do not meet these rules and do not qualify for an exemption can only receive SNAP for three months within a three-year period. These are called countable months.

 

“SNAP plays a critical role in Oregon, helping 757,700 people, or one in six Oregonians, put food on the table,” said Jessica Amaya Hoffman, ODHS SNAP Director. “In some communities, particularly in rural areas, people may not have easy access to jobs, training, transportation, or WorkSource offices, making it harder to meet work rules and increasing the risk of losing reliable access to food.”

 

Many households receiving SNAP have very low incomes, with 35 percent at or below half of the federal poverty level which is $15,960 per year for a single individual. ODHS has been working to connect with people before benefits stop. Of the approximately 20,000 people who were notified in March that their benefits would close, about 6,000 connected with ODHS and were able to either qualify for an exemption or meet work rules to keep their benefits. In late March, 13,399 cases closed, affecting 13,898 individual SNAP recipients, after people did not meet work rules or qualify for an exemption. Those cases include 13,898 individual SNAP recipients. As a result, they did not receive April benefits.

 

In April, 6,948 additional cases are at risk of closing at the end of the month, affecting 6,948 individual SNAP recipients. Additional individuals are at risk of losing benefits in upcoming months as more people reach time limits.

 

ODHS is encouraging people to reach out as soon as possible if they have questions about their benefits or work rules. Many people may not realize they can regain SNAP after benefits stop, or may not know the steps to take.

 

If someone has used their three countable months and lost SNAP benefits, there are several ways they may be able to regain eligibility.

 

People may qualify again if they meet work rules. This usually means completing about 80 hours of approved activities each month. These activities may include paid work, searching for a job, training programs or volunteering. If someone meets the required hours for at least 30 days, they may qualify for SNAP again.

 

People may also regain SNAP if they qualify for an exemption. Exemptions are based on a person’s situation and may include health conditions, caregiving responsibilities or other life circumstances. Some activities, such as receiving unemployment benefits or taking part in certain programs, may also count toward meeting rules.

 

In some cases, changes in a person’s situation may affect whether time limits apply. This may include changes in the household or where someone lives.

 

“If your SNAP benefits have stopped, contact us right away,” said Hoffman. “Benefits do not restart automatically, but we can review your situation and help you understand your next steps.”

 

Even after benefits stop, support is still available. ODHS and the Oregon Employment Department can help people connect to employment and training services and work toward regaining eligibility.

 

ODHS encourages anyone who has questions about their SNAP benefits or work rules to reach out as soon as possible. Contacting ODHS early may help people keep or regain their benefits.

 

For full details about SNAP work rules, exemptions and how to report activities, visit:

• English: Oregon.gov/snapworkrules
• Spanish: achel.currans-henry@oregon.gov/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/FWCTL1VA/oregon.gov/odhs/es/alimentos/Pages/limites-tiempo">Oregon.gov/odhs/es/alimentos/Pages/limites-tiempo

People can also contact the ODHS ABAWD team:

• Call: 1-833-947-1694
• Email: SNAP.ABAWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.gov

For more information about SNAP benefits:

• Online: benefits.oregon.gov
• Call: 1-800-699-9075

State of Oregon v. Eric Tyreak Gordon

Marion County Circuit Court Case 25CR22843, 25CR63097 & 25CR05205

 

Salem, OR – April 22, 2026 –  Today Marion County Circuit Court Judge Jennifer Gardiner sentenced Eric Tyreak Gordon (age 25) to 264 months (22 years) in the Oregon Department of Corrections. He will be required to register as a sex offender. Gordon pled guilty to the following charges:

• Using a Child in Display of Sexually Explicit Conduct
• Sexual Abuse in the Second Degree (2 counts)
• Sodomy in the Third Degree (3 counts)
• Unlawful Delivery of a Marijuana item (2 counts)
• Failure to Report as a Sex Offender
• Rape in the Third Degree

Gordon was arrested and charged in April 2025. The convictions stem from three separate Marion County cases involving victims between the ages of 14 and 15, including two cases of child sexual abuse involving three minor victims. Gordon also pled guilty to related charges in Multnomah County (Sodomy in the Third Degree and Rape in the Third Degree), where the sentence will run concurrent to the Marion County sentence.

 

“These charges reflect deeply troubling conduct,” said District Attorney Paige Clarkson. “I’m grateful for the work done by our community partners at Liberty House and the Salem Police Department. Our office remains committed to prosecuting crimes of this nature and safeguarding the children in our community.”

 

The crime of Using a Child in a Display of Sexually Explicit Conduct is a Ballot Measure 11 crime, which requires a mandatory prison sentence of 5 years 10 months.  

This case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Kylie Kuhns. The Marion County DA’s Office wishes to acknowledge the critical and delicate work of the Liberty House and the thorough investigation by the Salem Police Department, and particularly Detective Fultz with the Special Victims Unit.  

 

Due to the involvement of child victims and the nature of criminal behavior, no additional details will be released.

 

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April 21, 2026, Lincoln County Oregon

 

The final educational event of our Spring into Preparedness series is this Thursday, April 23rd at 6pm at the Lincoln City Recreation Center.

 

Oregon Department of Forestry and Oregon State Extension Service have teamed up to provide a talk on “Wildfire Ready: Mitigation Strategies, Fire Science, Ecology and Hazards”.

 

In addition, Pacific Power will be at the event with information and refreshments for attendees.

 

For more information on wildfire preparedness, please visit the Lincoln County Emergency Management website at Hazards: Wildfire | Lincoln County, OR https://www.co.lincoln.or.us/770/Hazards-Wildfire

 

 

 

EUGENE, Ore.— Anthony D’Montrez Crawford, 30, of Eugene, Oregon, pleaded guilty today to sex trafficking a minor.

 

According to court documents, Crawford began trafficking a 17-year old minor victim from July 2024 to August 2024 in Eugene and Springfield, Oregon. Crawford and his wife posted online commercial sex advertisements for the minor victim and coordinated sex acts through phone and text messages. Crawford also transported the minor victim to Seattle on two occasions to engage in prostitution.

 

On March 5, 2026, Crawford was charged by information with sex trafficking of a child.

 

Crawford faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and five years of supervised release. Crawford will be sentenced on August 19, 2026, before a U.S. district court judge.

 

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

 

The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Huynh is prosecuting the case.

 

If you or someone you know are victims of human trafficking or have information about a potential human trafficking situation, please call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center (NHTRC) at 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733. NHTRC is a national, toll-free hotline, with specialists available to answer calls from anywhere in the country, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also submit a tip on the NHTRC website.

 

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.

 

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TACOMA, Wash., April 22, 2026 — Columbia Bank, a subsidiary of Columbia Banking System (Nasdaq: COLB), today announced it has been recognized by Crisil Coalition Greenwich with two regional Best Bank Awards for excellence in middle market banking. More than 500 banks worldwide were evaluated across small business and middle market categories, with only 47 banks receiving honors.

Crisil Coalition Greenwich recognized Columbia Bank in the following middle market banking categories for the U.S. West region:

• Best Bank – Satisfaction in Cash Management for Middle Market Banking in the U.S. (West)
• Best Bank – Satisfaction with Relationship Manager for Middle Market Banking in the U.S. (West)

Source: Coalition Greenwich Voice of Client - 2025 U.S. Commercial Banking Study

Best Bank Awards are based on extensive client feedback. The 2026 middle market recognitions draw from more than 11,000 interviews with U.S.-based businesses generating $10 million to $500 million in annual sales.

“Columbia Bank’s recognition by Crisil Coalition Greenwich as a 2026 Best Bank is especially meaningful since it’s the result of customer testimonials. It reflects the priority we place on supporting middle market companies, as well as the dedication and expertise our bankers bring to the table every day for our customers,” said Tory Nixon, Columbia Bank President. “It’s a privilege to support so many outstanding middle market enterprises across the West, and we will continue to earn their trust and confidence.”

Additional 2026 Accolades

The Coalition Greenwich awards add to a growing list of honors Columbia Bank has received this year, including:

• Forbes: America’s Best Banks
• Global Finance: Best Bank for Small and Midsize Enterprises, West
• Global Finance: Best Trade Finance Partner, West

About Columbia Bank
Columbia Bank is the largest bank headquartered in the Northwest and one of the largest banks headquartered in the West with offices in Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and Washington. Columbia Bank combines the resources, sophistication, and expertise of a national bank with a commitment to deliver superior, personalized service. The bank supports consumers and businesses through a full suite of services, including retail and commercial banking, Small Business Administration lending, institutional and corporate banking, and equipment leasing. Columbia Bank customers also have access to comprehensive investment and wealth management expertise as well as healthcare and private banking through Columbia Wealth Management. Columbia Bank is a subsidiary of Tacoma, Washington-based Columbia Banking System, Inc. (Nasdaq: COLB).

 

 

Each nonprofit will receive $25,000 through OnPoint’s Green Horizons initiative to continue their work restoring nature and conserving wildlife

 

PORTLAND, Ore. — OnPoint Community Credit Union is giving $100,000 to four local environmental nonprofits in celebration of Earth Day 2026. This year’s beneficiaries are The Nature Conservancy in Oregon, SOLVE, Columbia Land Trust and School Garden Project of Lane County. Each will receive $25,000. The donation is part of OnPoint’s Green Horizons initiative that supports organizations dedicated to protecting natural resources, preserving wildlife and strengthening ecosystems across Oregon and southwest Washington.

 

“Meaningful change starts at the community level, with people and organizations working together to make a difference,” said Rob Stuart, president/CEO, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “We’re proud to support local nonprofits who are taking action every day to care for our environment and strengthen the places we all call home.”

 

OnPoint’s Green Horizon initiative has directed more than $600,000 to local nonprofits protecting our region’s natural resources since it began in 2021.

 

Supporting organizations that protect the environment

The Nature Conservancy in Oregon (TNCO) works to conserve the land and waters upon which all life depends. Since 2017, OnPoint’s donations of more than $375,000 to TNCO have helped fund projects across Oregon, from restoration of estuaries and forests to drought-resilient watersheds and community-driven climate solutions.

 

“OnPoint’s steady support through the Green Horizons initiative underpins TNC’s climate and conservation efforts and is helping create a more resilient future for all Oregonians,” said Derek Johnson, Oregon state director of The Nature Conservancy. “This partnership allows us to deepen our impact by protecting natural resources and supporting the communities that depend on them.”

 

SOLVE brings communities together to take care of our environment and enhance our waterways by cleaning and restoring our neighborhoods and natural areas. For the past four years, OnPoint has supported SOLVE with $115,000 in donations and by sending dozens of employee volunteers to participate in SOLVE cleanup projects. These events organize individuals and communities across Oregon and SW Washington to help remove litter from city streets and marine debris from beaches that can endanger wildlife and negatively impact water quality.

 

“Our work is driven by the collective impact of volunteers showing up for their communities,” said Kris Carico, chief executive officer of SOLVE. “OnPoint’s support and employee volunteers help us connect more people to these opportunities and take meaningful steps toward cleaner, healthier spaces in the region.”

 

Columbia Land Trust works alongside farmers, Tribal Nations, foresters and rural and urban communities to conserve and care for lands on both sides of the Columbia River in Oregon and Washington. Together, we achieve meaningful landscape scale conservation so that this place continues to thrive for wildlife, plants and people for generations to come. 

 

“Support from OnPoint plays an important role in advancing our efforts to care for the Columbia River region’s lands and waters,” said David Cook, communications director, Columbia Land Trust. “This investment will help strengthen our ability to keep wildlife corridors intact and restore ecosystems that sustain life.”

 

School Garden Project of Lane County partners with local schools to provide hands-on garden and nutrition education, helping students build lifelong skills in healthy eating and environmental stewardship. Through engaging outdoor learning experiences, the organization connects students to the land, their food and their community while fostering curiosity and well-being.

 

“Our gardens are powerful classrooms where students can explore, learn and build lifelong skills,” said Mindy Bell, executive director of the School Garden Project of Lane County. “With support from partners like OnPoint, we’re able to expand hands-on learning experiences that inspire healthy habits and a lasting appreciation for the environment.”

 

Discounts and incentives for greener choices

In addition to supporting environmental nonprofits, OnPoint’s Green Horizons initiative offers members discounts on green auto loans and solar projects and sustainability incentives for employees.

 

The Green Auto Discount offers 0.25% Annual Percentage Rate (APR) off auto loan rates for new or used electric or hybrid vehicles financed through OnPoint, with additional incentives available through Oregon and Washington programs. Through Green Horizons, homeowners can receive a 0.25% discount off the EquityFlex Fixed Portion APR when using an EquityFlex Line of Credit to finance solar panels, with additional savings available through state and local incentives

 

OnPoint encourages its employees to make sustainable choices through telecommuting programs and environmentally focused employee volunteer opportunities.

 

For more information about OnPoint’s investment in building a greener future, please visit: onpointcu.com/green-horizons.

 

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About OnPoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in Oregon, serving more than 645,000 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 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and 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.

 

Vehicles meeting OnPoint’s Green Auto Discount standards receive a 0.25% discount off stated APR (Annual Percentage Rate). All OnPoint loans are subject to credit terms and approval. Discount does not apply to existing OnPoint auto loans. 

Receive a 0.25% discount off stated EquityFlex Fixed Portion APR when proceeds are used to purchase solar panels. Review of purchase order or invoice required to qualify. Discount applies to invoice/purchase order amount, not to exceed $12,000. 

Beaverton, OR – Valley Catholic Middle School (VCMS) invites you to join them at Rockaway Beach on Thursday, April 23 for a special day of innovation, outdoor learning and hands-on stewardship.

 

Sixth graders from VCMS have designed and constructed tools to remove microplastics from Oregon beaches. Partnering with Sea Turtles are Forever, they will test and adjust their tools in Rockaway while actively cleaning an important section of our local Oregon coastline.

 

Event Highlights:

• Who: VCMS students partnering with Sea Turtles Forever
• Where: Rockaway Beach City Center and Park
• When: Thursday, April 23 at 10 a.m.
• What: Special environmental science service project that is part of Valley Catholic’s outdoor education program. The project integrates the school’s STEM curriculum into real-world stewardship opportunities for its students.
• Bonus: The entire middle school will be participating in the beach cleanup. After the cleanup project, there will be a special themed team sandcastle building contest. The entire event will be complete by 2:30.

Photo and Interview opportunities:

• Students conducting hands-on beach cleanup using tools they specifically engineered for the service day.
• Repair station where students can repair and adjust their tools on-site.
• Interviews with students, faculty, community members and Sea Turtles Forever about the importance of microplastic cleanup, coast line conservation and the VCS outdoor education program.
• Visuals of the themed sandcastle contest.

Media Access:
Journalists and photographers are encouraged to capture students in action, interview faculty and students, and experience firsthand how faith, creation, and community intersect in this immersive program.

 

About Valley Catholic Middle School Outdoor Education:
Valley Catholic Middle School is located on the Sisters of St. Mary campus at 420 SW Saint Mary's Dr. in Beaverton, Oregon, ssmo.org/vcs/schools/middle.

 

The Valley Catholic School legacy began more than 120 years ago by the Sisters of St. Mary of Oregon. Their mission was to give students access to a faith-based, college-prep education. VCMS’s Outdoor Education program is designed to nurture the whole child, mind, body, and spirit, while strengthening communication, emotional balance, and a sense of belonging. Replacing the traditional single-week Outdoor School, the program offers multiple seasonal experiences across grades 6-8. Students participate in grade-specific trips, seasonal modules, and all-school outdoor events that connect classroom learning with real-world environmental and spiritual experiences.

The Civil Service Commission of Winston Dillard Fire District No. 5 will hold a meeting on Thursday April 23, 2026, at 10:00 AM. The meeting will be held at 250 SE Main St. Winston, OR 97496. To comply with House Bill 2560, those that wish to participate can attend through videoconferencing or telephonically. If you plan on attending the meeting, please call the business office at 541-673-5503 during normal business hours prior to 10:00 AM on Thursday April 23, 2026, for instructions.

 

The agenda to include but not limited to:

1. Certify Lieutenant List
2. Discuss Civil Service Commission Appointments
3. Certify Payroll FY2026

 

The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 24 hours before the meeting to WDFD at 541-673-5503.

The Oregon State Marine Board will be conducting its annual marine law enforcement training on Lake Billy Chinook in Jefferson County between April 27 and May 8. This intensive training is designed for new or seasonal marine law enforcement officers to train them in boating laws, boat handling, and water safety fundamentals. 

 

“Oregon has very diverse waterways for boaters to recreate, making it imperative that Oregon’s Marine Law Enforcement Officers are well trained for any situation with varying conditions,” said Edward Persichetti, Marine Law Enforcement Training Coordinator for the Marine Board.

 

Throughout this comprehensive, nine-day marine academy, officers get time behind the wheel to develop maneuvering skills for operating jet and propeller boats, including docking, turning, and emergency maneuvers. They also learn boating safety rules that they will be enforcing to keep everyone safe on the water. Persichetti added, “Lake Billy Chinook is ideal for this level of training and allows for different scenarios to be set up in various locations without impacting other recreators.”

 

The training includes accident investigation, boating under the influence (BUII) detection and apprehension, as well as other types of boater compliance with equipment, motorized boating safety education cards, or waterway access permits for paddlers. Students will apply their boat-handling skills in real-world scenarios that emphasize safety, courtesy, enforcement tactics, and accident prevention.

 

The marine academy is hosted by the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, along with highly skilled deputies from around the state, taking an active role as instructors. 

 

Learn more about the Marine Board’s law enforcement partnerships with 30 county Sheriff’s Offices and the Oregon State Police.

 

Pictured: Deputy Dennis Greiner, Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office

-End-

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 21, 2026

Douglas County Commissioners Celebrate National Volunteer Week

 

(Douglas County, Ore.) — In honor of National Volunteer Week (April 19-26), the Douglas County Board of Commissioners proudly recognize and thank the many volunteers who dedicate their time, talent, and compassion to serving Douglas County government and the broader community. 

Thank you to the more than 100 community volunteers who serve on County advisory boards, committees, and councils—including the Planning Advisory Committees, Fair Board, Budget Committee, Seniors Advisory Council, Parks Advisory Board, Veterans Advisory Council, Dog Control Board, Noxious Weed Advisory Board, Local Public Safety Coordinating Council, Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Committee, Property Values Appeals Board, Committee for Citizen Involvement, and Traffic Safety Commission.  These individuals play a vital role in shaping programs, policies, and services that benefit all Douglas County residents.  The Commissioners also extend appreciation to the many hands-on volunteers who provide direct support for county services across Douglas County, including:

• Douglas County Meals on Wheels and Senior Dining Site volunteers, who prepare and deliver over 80,000 meals annually to seniors in need, helping ensure nutrition and connection for some of our most vulnerable residents.
• Douglas County Search & Rescue volunteers, who work with local law enforcement, train extensively, and respond when residents need help the most.
• Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard, the highly trained volunteer honor guard provides dignified recognition and respect for service, sacrifice, and community milestones, especially honoring law enforcement personnel and public service traditions.
• Douglas County Parks Camp Hosts and Adopt-a-Park volunteers, who help maintain and enhance the beauty, safety, and accessibility of our county parks.
• Salmon Harbor - Winchester Bay RV Resort Park Hosts, who help maintain and enhance the beauty, safety, and accessibility of our county assets in Winchester Bay.
• Douglas County Fairgrounds volunteers, who assist with events, judge competitions, and support operations that bring the community together year-round.
• Douglas County Work Crew volunteers help provide structured opportunities for individuals to fulfill their mandated service hours in a meaningful, supervised, and socially beneficial way.
• Douglas County Museum of History and Natural History and Umpqua Lighthouse Museum volunteers, who help preserve, share, and provide tours of the diverse and rich history of our region.
• Douglas County Emergency Management and Disaster Response volunteers, including those serving through CERT (Community Emergency Response Team), ARES (Amateur Radio Emergency Service), 211, American Red Cross, United Way, Salvation Army, 988, and many others who step up in times of crisis to support our community.

The Commissioners similarly offer special recognition to Courthouse Greeter Bill Crenshaw, whose welcoming presence and helpful smile make a lasting impression on everyone who visits the Douglas County Courthouse. In addition to those serving in official County roles, the Commissioners also extend their sincere appreciation to the countless community volunteers who support local nonprofits, service organizations, fire departments, youth sports programs, schools, councils, faith-based groups, veterans, and neighborhood initiatives. These individuals quietly strengthen the fabric of Douglas County every day lending a helping hand, uplifting those in need, and making our communities more connected, resilient, and compassionate.

 

Established in 1974 and observed as part of Global Volunteer Month, National Volunteer Week recognizes the significant contributions of volunteers and the essential role they play in meeting community needs through service, personal responsibility, and local action. Volunteers embody the spirit of self-reliance and neighbor helping neighbor ideologies that strengthen communities and support local solutions.  Their stories serve to inspire others to act, to realize their power to make a difference, and be a force that transforms the world.

The Value of Volunteers:  The impact of volunteerism extends far beyond service—it represents a significant economic contribution. According to Independent Sector, as of April 2025, the estimated value of volunteer time in Oregon is $36.44 per hour, surpassing the 2025 national average of $34.79.  This figure reflects the measurable economic impact of volunteer efforts and is an important tool for nonprofits, government agencies, and community organizations when evaluating programs and pursuing grant funding. Notably, the value of volunteer time in Oregon has steadily increased from $29.75 in 2020 to $36.44 in 2025.

 

A Community Effort: “Volunteers are truly the heart of Douglas County,” stated Commissioner Tim Freeman. “Whether they are serving on advisory boards, delivering meals, responding in emergencies, or supporting community events, their dedication makes a real and lasting difference. We are incredibly grateful for the time, energy, and compassion they give to help keep our communities strong.”

During National Volunteer Week and throughout the year, the Douglas County Board of Commissioners encourages residents to take time to recognize and support local volunteers, and to consider getting involved in the many service opportunities that strengthen our community.  Visit the Douglas County website at douglascountyor.gov or justserve.org for volunteer opportunities in Douglas County.  These efforts help preserve and enhance Douglas County as a great place to live, work, and enjoy life.

 

"Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart." — Elizabeth Andrew, Author.

 

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Media Contact: Tamara Howell, Chief Public Affairs Officer | Douglas County Public Affairs Office | Office: (541) 957-4896 |

Cell: (541) 670-2804 | Email: a.howell@douglascountyor.gov">tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov

 

 

BOARD ON PUBLIC SAFETY STANDARDS AND TRAINING

MEETING SCHEDULED

 

Notice of Regular Meeting

The Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 23, 2026, in the Governor Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov.

 

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

 

Amended Agenda Items:

 

1. Introductions

 

2. Meeting Minutes

Approve the January 22, 2026, Meeting Minutes

 

3. Fire Policy Committee

 

a. Fire Policy Committee Update – Chris Heppel, Chair

 

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

 

A. Clifton Booher, DPSST No. 13925; Albany Fire Department – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the FPC on February 25, 2026.

 

B. Kyle Clark, DPSST No. 44945; Irrigon RFPD – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the FPC on February 25, 2026.

 

C. Steven Eubanks, DPSST No. 41031; Scio RFPD – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the FPC on November 19, 2025.

 

D. Request for Fire Policy Committee Review of Fire Certifications

Adoption of Standards and Issuance of Fire Certifications

 

E. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) 259-009-0005, 259-009-0062, and 259-009-0065

Minimum Standards on Professional Qualifications for NFPA Airport Firefighter

 

F. Committee Appointments

Fire Policy Committee

Ryan Gregor – Central Oregon Community College. Appointment to the FPC, 1st term effective April 23, 2026.

 

4. Criminal Justice Policy Committees

 

a. Police Policy Committee Update – Scotty Nowning, Chair

 

b. Telecommunications Policy Committee Update – Michael Fletcher, Chair

 

c. Corrections Policy Committee Update – Nicholas Hunter, Chair

 

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

 

A. Sefiu Ballam, DPSST No. 59203; Marion County Sheriff's Office – Revoke

Unanimous vote with one (1) recusal to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 10, 2026.

 

B. Robert Bingham, DPSST No. 38928; Washington County Sheriff's Office – No Action

Unanimous vote with one (1) recusal to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 10, 2026.

 

C. Mileena Edwards, DPSST No. 61544; Warm Springs Police Department – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the TPC on February 4, 2026.

 

D. Louis Martin, DPSST No. 45897; DOC/Coffee Creek Correctional Facility – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 10, 2026.

 

E. Alexander Navruzov, DPSST No. 64946; DOC/Columbia River Correctional Institution – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 10, 2026.

 

F. Ryan Reid, DPSST No. 48586; DOC/Snake River Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 10, 2026.

 

G. Austin Wilcox, DPSST No. 64231; DOC/Snake River Correctional Institution – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on February 10, 2026.

 

H. Sabrina Whittaker, DPSST No. 51116; Oregon State Police – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on February 19, 2026.

 

I.  Committee Appointments

Police Policy Committee

• • Gregory Rice – Oregon Sheriff's Jail Command Council. Appointment to the CPC, 1st term effective April 23, 2026.
  • Josh Aldrich – Oregon Sheriff's Jail Command Council. Re-appointment to the CPC, 2nd term effective April 28, 2026.
  • Michael Mays – Non-Management Corrections Officer. Appointment to the CPC, 2nd term effective April 25, 2026.

       e. Emergency Suspension Recommendation

           Presented by Melissa Lang-Bacho

 

5. Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee

 

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

 

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

 

A. Casey Pitney, PS No. 105268

Notice of Intent to Propose Civil Penalty

 

B. Ronald Riebel, PI No. 038063

Notice of Intent to Propose Civil Penalty

 

C. Wayne Yu, PS No. 077282

Notice of Intent to Propose Civil Penalty

 

D. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-060-0125

Adopting Rule Changes for Private Security Professional Applicants with Prior Law Enforcement Experience (House Bill 2183)

 

E. Committee Appointments

 

Private Security/Investigators Policy Committee

• • James Odd – Private Investigator Recommended by the Oregon State Bar. Appointment to the PSIPC, 1st term effective April 23, 2026.

6. DPSST Recommendations (The following items to be ratified by one vote each)

 

a. Imposition of Civil Penalties – House Bill 2527

     Presented by Michael Holsapple

 

b. Imposition of Civil Penalties – House Bill 2527/Senate Bill 300

    Presented by Michael Holsapple

 

7. Annual Director's Evaluation – Chair Codding 

 

8. Agency Updates – Agency Director, Phil Castle

 

9. Next Meeting Date: July 23, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.

 

 

Administrative Announcement

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

SALEM, Ore. – In recognition of National Safe Digging Month, the Oregon Utility Notification Center (OUNC), Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA), and Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) remind Oregonians to contact 811 before starting projects that involves digging.

 

Whether a professional contractor or do-it-yourselfer, all play an important role in preventing damage to underground utilities. Contacting Oregon 811 before you dig helps prevent serious injuries and avoid costly damage to essential utility services. There are three easy steps to safe digging in Oregon:

1. Submit a locate request at least two business days before digging at Oregon811.com or by calling 811
2. Wait for utility crews to mark the underground lines
3. Dig carefully

After a locate request is submitted, the OUNC notifies the utility companies that provide service to the area. Utility crews then visit the site and mark the approximate location of the underground lines, pipes, and cables able to be located, at no cost to the homeowner or contractor.

 

Meanwhile, employers must follow Oregon OSHA requirements to protect workers against the potential hazards of underground utilities. Those requirements include:

1. Notifying OUNC of the proposed area of excavations at least two working days before starting an excavation.
2. Estimating the location of utilities before opening or extending an excavation.
3. Determining by safe and acceptable means the exact location of the estimated utility installations when excavation activities approach them.
4. While excavations are open, underground installations must be protected, supported, or removed as necessary to safeguard employees.

Oregon OSHA offers employers free consultations – no fault, no citations, no penalties – to improve workplace health and safety programs and practices. It also offers free technical help with understanding and applying workplace safety rules.

 

Most utility line strikes happen during the warmer months, when construction and landscaping activity increases. National data shows that in 2024, an estimated 196,977 instances of damage occurred across the country, and 17 percent were caused by failing to contact 811.

 

For more information or to submit a locate request, visit Oregon811.com or call 811.

 

# # #

UPDATE 04/21/2026 10:30 AM 

REEDSPORT, Ore. - Detectives have identified the two victims of the April 16, 2026, fatal house fire on Lower Smith River Road as 65-year-old Bodie Bren Dye of Reedsport and 67-year-old Gregory Scott Henning, also of Reedsport. Next of kin notifications have been made. 

 

The Douglas County Major Crimes Team continues to investigate the incident as a homicide. No further updates are expected at this time.

 

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ORIGINAL RELEASE 04/17/2026 4:00 PM

REEDSPORT, Ore. – A Reedsport woman is in custody on murder charges following a residential house fire Thursday night.

 

On Thursday, April 16, 2026, shortly before 11:00 p.m., Douglas County 911 received a report of a structure fire in the 27000‑block of Lower Smith River Road. Callers reported individuals were unaccounted for and possibly still inside the residence.

 

Deputies and firefighters responded to the scene. Upon arrival, deputies attempted rescue and located one individual who was pulled from the house. Despite lifesaving efforts, the 65‑year‑old victim was pronounced deceased. A second victim, aged 67, was also located inside and declared deceased. A third individual was able to escape the residence and was uninjured. Identification of the victims is being withheld pending next‑of‑kin notification.

 

Deputies contacted a female at the scene, identified as 41‑year‑old Pamela Anne Westfall of Reedsport, who was detained. Westfall admitted to intentionally starting the fire inside the residence. Early indications suggest the fire began following a disturbance.

 

Westfall was arrested and lodged at the Douglas County Jail on the following charges:

• Murder in the First Degree (2 counts)
• Attempted Murder
• Arson in the First Degree
• Warrant Arrest

 

The Douglas County Major Crimes Team is continuing to investigate the incident. The Sheriff’s Office is the lead investigative agency. The Major Crimes Team consists of investigators from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Roseburg Police Department, and Oregon State Police, working in consultation with the Douglas County District Attorney’s Office.

 

Additional assistance was provided by the Winchester Bay Fire Department, Reedsport Fire Department, Gardiner Fire Department, Oregon State Police Arson Investigation, Oregon State Police Crime Laboratory, Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office, and Reedsport Police Department.

 

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information that may assist the case is asked to contact investigators at 541‑440‑4471, referencing Case #26‑1212.

Portland, OR — On July 4, 2026, America250 will bury the Semiquincentennial Time Capsule within Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, PA. The stainless-steel cylinder, designed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, is designed to safely store commemorative objects for 250 years until the capsule’s opening in 2276.

 

Each state was asked to contribute a submission that represents its people, stories, and values at this historic moment. In February, the America 250 Oregon Commission invited the public to share their ideas for what Oregon should submit to the time capsule, with suggestions ranging from creative works, written reflections, and symbolic objects. Each state’s submission must fit within a 6" x 5" x 2" archival storage box or consist of a single page of archival paper no larger than 8.5" x 11".

 

The Commission is pleased to announce that Oregon’s chosen submission is a pin handcrafted by acclaimed Native American artist Lillian Pitt (Warm Springs, Wasco, and Yakama). She is widely known for her sculpting and mixed media artistry, which focuses on 12,000 years of Native American history and traditions of the Columbia River region. Her works have been exhibited globally and can be found in Oregon at the Oregon Convention Center, Portland State University, and the Museum at Warm Springs.

 

The pin that was selected is She Who Watches, Pitt’s depiction of a famous petroglyph and pictograph that is perched high on a mountain visible from her ancestral village. Under the oral traditions of tribes of the Columbia River region, She Who Watches represents Tsagaglalal, a wise and powerful chief who was transformed to stone, where she continues to keep vigil over her people and the Columbia River.

 

“The inclusion of this pin from one of Oregon’s most celebrated Indigenous artists reminds us that Oregon’s history and America’s history is much longer than 250 or 500 years,” said America 250 Oregon Commission Chair Kerry Tymchuk. 

 

“I am honored that my work will be included in this time capsule and am heartened to know that when it is opened in 250 years, people will be reminded of those who have made this land their home since time immemorial,” said Lillian Pitt.

 

Lillian Pitt was born on the Warm Springs Reservation in 1944 and moved to Portland in the early 1960s, where she resides today. She has received many honors, including the Oregon History Makers Award from the Oregon Historical Society. The Ford Family Foundation recently named Pitt as the inaugural recipient of the 1905 Legacy Award, which will be presented every five years to an active Oregon artist who has been producing art for at least 20 years.

About the America 250 Oregon Commission

 

The America 250 Oregon Commission was created through Senate Bill 1531, which was signed into law by Governor Tina Kotek on March 27, 2024. Chaired by the Oregon Historical Society’s executive director, Kerry Tymchuk, the mission of the America 250 Oregon Commission is to coordinate, provide guidance, and ensure that Oregon’s official observance of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States is inclusive and shares the histories of Oregon’s diverse populations, including the histories of the Indigenous peoples who have resided here since time immemorial. Learn more at oregon250.org.

Paused since the pandemic in 2020, Oregon’s Art in the Governor’s Office relaunches with an exhibition featuring distinguished photographer Harrison Branch
 

SALEM, Oregon — The Office of the Governor, in partnership with the Oregon Arts Commission, is proud to relaunch Art in the Governor’s Office. This program brings the works of some of Oregon’s most distinguished artists to the state Capitol to be displayed in the Governor’s Gallery (formerly the Reception Room).

 

This longstanding tradition, which began in 1975 and celebrates the diverse creativity of Oregon’s professional visual artists, returns this year after a pause due to the pandemic and the restoration of the Capitol building. It will feature a series of three exhibitions of renowned practitioners of photography and painting.

 

The 2026 series begins with an exhibition by Harrison Branch, an accomplished photographer and Oregon State University Professor Emeritus. Branch’s “Palladotypes: Unpublished Images” will be on display April 24 through July 16.

 

“With construction nearly completed, it’s so meaningful to be back in the Capitol – and restart the sharing of art in the Governor’s Office,” said Oregon First Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson. “Oregonian artist Marie Watt so perfectly described the importance of art: ‘Art is a living, breathing part of our community. Art belongs to everyone, and it has the power to transform the way we see each other and ourselves.’ I encourage everyone who visits or works in the Capitol to stop by the Governor’s Office to view these beautiful pieces of art and photography.”

 

Featured Artist: Harrison Branch

Born in New York City and educated at the San Francisco Art Institute and Yale University, Harrison Branch has spent more than four decades at the forefront of photographic education and artistry. Joining Oregon State University faculty in 1972, Branch was instrumental in developing the university’s photography program.

 

Branch, who lives in Corvallis, is celebrated for his technical expertise with bellows cameras—large, intricate instruments that allow for extreme precision. His work deeply explores the “natural environment,” specifically focusing on the tonal relationships between silver and the superior platinum-palladium printing process.

 

“In the age of digital photography,” Branch said, “I prefer the traditional methods, which could also be called classical. To me this hands-on method brings the most joy and excitement. Watching an image materialize in the developing tray is still magical.”

 

His photographs, which often feature undeveloped natural areas, have been exhibited internationally, including at the Bibliothèque Nationale in Paris and the George Eastman House.

 

Upcoming 2026 Exhibitions

Following the exhibition by Harrison Branch, the Governor’s Office will host two additional prominent Oregon artists:

• Erik Sandgren (July 17 – Oct. 8): Sandgren’s work probes the figured landscape through the lenses of myth and history. He works in many media. His large-scale murals, paintings and prints are in private and public collections as diverse as the Maryhill Museum of Art and the Yale University Art Gallery.



• Nancy Watterson Scharf (Oct. 9 – Dec. 31): Scharf is based in the Southern Oregon coast range, and her acrylic paintings provide a “voice for nature,” investigating the complex relationship between humans, animals and the ecosystems they share.

 

Public Access

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

 

BEND, OR — The clock is ticking for desert-inspired nonfiction writers! The High Desert Museum is calling for entries for the 12th annual Waterston Desert Writing Prize. Writers dedicated to exploring the ecological and cultural narratives of arid landscapes have until May 1, 2026, at 11:59 pm to submit their proposals for a chance at the $3,000 award and a creative writing residency at PLAYA in Summer Lake, Oregon.

 

This prestigious award, a program of the High Desert Museum, celebrates proposals for outstanding literary nonfiction dedicated to the literal and figurative exploration of desert landscapes. This year’s winner will also be recognized with a reception and reading at the Museum in Bend, Oregon, on September 17, 2026. Tickets are available now at highdesertmuseum.org/waterston-ceremony-2026.

 

“Now in its 12th year, the Waterston Desert Writing Prize continues to elevate stories that honor the complexity of arid landscapes,” said Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Ph.D. “We are eager to discover new, eloquent voices that challenge and expand our understanding of these vital ecosystems.”

 

Charles Hood, winner of the Obsidian Award in 2025 and a five-time finalist for the Waterston Desert Writing Prize, will serve as the 2026 guest judge. A poet and essayist with more than a dozen books to his name, Hood has been a factory worker, a ski instructor, and a birding guide in Africa. His recent books include Nocturnalia, an appreciation of nature after dark, and the essay collection A Salad Only the Devil Would Eat: The Joys of Ugly Nature, which was named the Nonfiction Book of the Year by Foreword book review. A lover of wildlife and travel, Hood has been to all 50 states and about 70 countries – from the high Arctic to the South Pole and from Tibet to West Africa to the Amazon. He has been a guest lecturer at Cambridge University and the Getty Art Museum.

 

The Prize was established in 2014, inspired by author and Oregon Poet Laureate Ellen Waterston’s love of the High Desert — a region that has been her muse for more than 50 years. The Waterston Desert Writing Prize celebrates writers whose nonfiction book proposal reflects a similar connection to a desert anywhere in the world.

 

“The Waterston Desert Writing Prize serves as a catalyst for discovery, the writers’ and, ultimately, the readers’,” said Waterston. “It brings to the fore new perspectives on everything from the ‘desertification’ of our oceans to the ingenuity of desert flora and fauna to the human narratives that are inscribed across these landscapes. Most of all, it celebrates the wisdom and generosity of deserts ready to teach what we need to know if we’d but listen.”

 

Emerging, mid-career and established nonfiction writers who illustrate artistic excellence, sensitivity to place and desert literacy with the desert as both subject and setting are invited to apply. The award supports literary nonfiction writers who are completing, proposing or considering the creation of a book-length manuscript. It is recommended that the writing sample submitted is part of the proposed project or closely represents it in content and style.

 

Past winners of the Prize include Heather Quinn (2025), Leath Tonino (2024), Anna Welch (2023) and Caroline Tracey (2022). A nonfiction writer and photographer, Quinn’s submission This is How You Disappear proposed a book-length essay blending personal narrative, reportage and historical research to explore trauma, ecological collapse and memory in the California desert, particularly around the Salton Sea. They were joined by keynote speaker Dan Flores, Ph.D., and guest judge Beth Piatote, Ph.D.

 

To learn more about the Waterston Desert Writing Prize and how to submit an entry, visit highdesertmuseum.org/waterston-prize.

 

 

ABOUT THE MUSEUM: 

The HIGH DESERT MUSEUM opened in Bend, Oregon in 1982. It brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate, was the 2025 recipient of the Autry Public History Prize from the Western History Association and was a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. To learn more, visit highdesertmuseum.org and follow us on TikTok, Facebook and Instagram. 

 

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Clatsop County, Ore. (20 April 2026) - The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the individual suspected of killing an elk in Cannon Beach.

 

In the early morning hours of Monday, April 20, 2026, a deceased cow elk was located on the edge of the roadway near the intersection of South Spruce Street and East Adams.  A witness reported seeing a vehicle leaving the area at a high rate of speed before the elk was discovered. 

 

OSP is asking residents of the area around where the elk was killed to review any security camera or doorbell camera footage for any suspicious activity between the hours of 4:00 a.m. and 5:30 a.m. 

 

Anyone with information may email a tip to TIP@osp.oregon.gov​ or contact OSP Dispatch at 800-442-0776 or by calling OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP26-128609.

 

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators

The Turn In Poachers (TIP) program is a collaboration between the Oregon State Police, Oregon Hunters Association, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon Wildlife Coalition, Oregon Outfitter and Guides Association, and the Oregon State Marine Board.

 

The TIP program offers preference point rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of big game mammals.  

 

Preference Point Rewards

5 Points: Bighorn Sheep

5 Points: Rocky Mountain Goat

5 Points: Moose

5 Points: Wolf

4 Points: Elk

4 Points: Deer

4 Points: Pronghorn Antelope

4 Points: Bear

4 Points: Cougar

 

The TIP program also offers cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of the following fish and wildlife species. Cash rewards can also be awarded for habitat destruction, illegally obtaining hunting or angling license or tag, lending or borrowing big game tags, spotlighting, or snagging.

 

Cash Rewards

Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) cash rewards:

$2,000 Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat, or Moose

$1,000 Elk, Deer, or Antelope

$600 Bear, Cougar, or Wolf
$400 Game Fish & Shellfish
$400 Snagging/Attempt to Snag

$300 Habitat destruction

$200 Illegally obtaining Oregon hunting or angling license or tags

$200 Unlawful lending/borrowing big game tag(s)

$200 Game Birds or Furbearers

$200 Spotlighting

 

Rewards for Game Fish & Shellfish and Snagging/Attempting to Snag are sponsored, in part, by Northwest Steelheaders Association and Coastal Conservation Association.

 

Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:

$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey

$500 Cougar, Bobcat, Beaver (public lands only), Black bears, Bighorn Sheep, Marten, Fisher, Sierra Nevada Red Fox

$1,000 Species listed as “threatened" or “endangered" under state or federal Endangered Species Act (excludes fish)
$10,000 for Wolves east of Highway 395 and $11,500 for Wolves east of Highway 395 and north of Highway 20

Oregon Outfitters & Guides Association (OOGA) Cash Rewards:

$200 Acting as an Outfitter Guide for the Illegal Killing of Wildlife, Illegally Obtaining Oregon Hunting or Angling Licenses or Tags, or Illegally Offering to Act as an Outfitter Guide as defined in ORS 704.010 and 704.020.

 

How to Report a Wildlife and/or Habitat Law Violation or Suspicious Activity:

TIP Hotline: 1-800-452-7888 or OSP (677)

TIP email: TIP@osp.oregon.gov (monitored Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

For more information visit the Oregon State Police Turn-in-Poachers (TIP) web page.

 

# # #

 

About the Oregon State Police

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

SALEM, Ore. – Eight members of the 150th Test, Measurement and Diagnostic Equipment (TMDE) Support Detachment were recognized during a mobilization ceremony at Camp Withycombe in Happy Valley, Oregon, on April 15, 2026, as they prepare to deploy to the Middle East in support of the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) operations.

 

The 150th TMDE is a key sustainment asset for the Army National Guard, maintaining accurate diagnostic equipment, ensuring compliance with Army calibration standards, and supporting unit readiness for all missions.

 

“I want everyone in the room to understand something. That number (eight) does not reflect the mission's importance or the impact this unit will have downrange. Some of the most critical work in any military operation is accomplished by a small team,” said Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General for the Oregon National Guard and the Presiding Officer for the ceremony.

 

These soldiers calibrate and repair the diagnostic testing equipment that all other units rely on. They support aviation, communications, medical, CBRN, and weapons systems. Their work ensures instruments measure correctly, so diagnostic tools give reliable readings. This helps keep the equipment that soldiers trust with their lives safe and dependable.

 

“To the members of the 150th TMDE, you carry Oregon with you and carry over 25 years of history from the Balkans, to Iraq, to Europe, and now the Middle East,” Gronewold said. “That’s a legacy worth honoring, and you are adding to it today.”

 

The origins of the unit date to 1999, when it was established as Detachment 4, 1241st Ordnance Team, to provide precision calibration support for Army systems. Currently, the 150th TMDE Support Detachment remains a critical contributor to Army readiness, supporting both domestic and overseas missions.

 

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Released Imagery:

 

260415-Z-CH590-1056: Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers of the 150th Test, Measurement, and Diagnostic Equipment Support Detachment stand in formation during their mobilization ceremony held at Camp Withycombe, in Happy Valley, Oregon, on April 15, 2026, to support U.S. Central Command in the Middle East. The 150th TMDE is a key sustainment asset for the Army National Guard, maintaining accurate diagnostic equipment, ensuring compliance with Army calibration standards, and supporting unit readiness for all missions. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

 

260415-Z-CH590-1123: Oregon Army National Guard Lt. Col. Rocky Kumlin, 821st Troop Command Battalion, delivers remarks to Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers and family members assigned to the 150th Test, Measurement and Diagnostic Equipment Support Detachment as they are mobilized on April 15, 2026, for assignment in the Middle East. The 150th TMDE is a key sustainment asset for the Army National Guard, maintaining accurate diagnostic equipment, ensuring compliance with Army calibration standards, and supporting unit readiness for all missions. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

 

260415-Z-CH590-1083: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General for the Oregon National Guard, delivers remarks to Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers and family members assigned to the 150th Test, Measurement and Diagnostic Equipment Support Detachment as they are mobilized on April 15, 2026, for assignment in the Middle East. The 150th TMDE is a key sustainment asset for the Army National Guard, maintaining accurate diagnostic equipment, ensuring compliance with Army calibration standards, and supporting unit readiness for all missions. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

 

260415-Z-CH590-1046: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General for the Oregon National Guard (right), greets Soldiers assigned to the 150th Test, Measurement and Diagnostic Equipment Support Detachment, at the conclusion of the unit’s formal mobilization ceremony held at Camp Withycombe, in Happy Valley, Oregon, on April 15, 2026, to support U.S. Central Command in the Middle East. The 150th TMDE is a key sustainment asset for the Army National Guard, maintaining accurate diagnostic equipment, ensuring compliance with Army calibration standards, and supporting unit readiness for all missions. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

 

260415-Z-CH590-1013: Members of the 150th Test, Measurement, and Diagnostic Equipment Support Detachment and members of the official party stand for the playing of the National Anthem during their mobilization ceremony held at Camp Withycombe, in Happy Valley, Oregon, on April 15, 2026, to support U.S. Central Command in the Middle East. The 150th TMDE is a key sustainment asset for the Army National Guard, maintaining accurate diagnostic equipment, ensuring compliance with Army calibration standards, and supporting unit readiness for all missions. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

 

260415-Z-CH590-1019: The unit Guidon for the 150th Test, Measurement, and Diagnostic Equipment Support Detachment is presented to those in attendance at the unit's formal mobilization ceremony on April 15, 2026, at Camp Withycombe in Happy Valley, Oregon. The 150th TMDE is a key sustainment asset for the Army National Guard, maintaining accurate diagnostic equipment, ensuring compliance with Army calibration standards, and supporting unit readiness for all missions. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

 

VIDEO B-roll of ceremony: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/1002748/150th-tmde-mobilization-ceremony

Office of the Douglas County Clerk - Daniel J. Loomis

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 20, 2026

 

Party Affiliation & Voter Registration deadline for the 2026 Primary Election

 

(Douglas County, Ore.) Tuesday, April 28, 2026, is the last day for anyone who wishes to participate in the 2026 Primary Election to register to vote.  Douglas County residents may securely check their party affiliation, voter registration, and/or register to vote by visiting https://sos.oregon.gov/voting-elections/. Voters may also print the downloadable pdf found at https://sos.oregon.gov/elections/Documents/SEL500.pdf, and return their completed forms to the Douglas County Clerk’s Office by utilizing one of the methods listed below:

 

1. Email – Voters may email their completed voter registration forms to our office at

elections@douglascountyor.gov.

1. Fax – Voters may fax completed voter registration forms to our office at (541) 440-4408.
2. Mail – Voters may also mail completed voter registration forms to our office.

 

Additionally, voters can also register in-person at the Douglas County Clerk’s Office located at:

Douglas County Courthouse

1036 SE Douglas Ave, Room CH 124

Roseburg, OR 97470

 

Douglas County Clerk Dan Loomis offered, “I recommend checking and updating your party affiliation and voter registration early to avoid delays.”

 

Both major political parties have chosen to hold closed primaries, in May. This means that partisan candidates for the two major parties (generally for state offices or higher) are only seen on a voter’s ballot if you are affiliated with one of the two major political parties.  All registered voters who are registered by the deadline, will receive a ballot for the 2026 Primary Election based on their residence address and political party affiliation. You must be a registered Oregon voter and registered with a major political party to be eligible to vote for that party’s nominees for partisan offices that will later be decided during the November General Election. If you are registered with a minor party or not affiliated with any political party, you will only be eligible to vote on nonpartisan offices and measures.

 

For more information, please visit the Douglas County Clerk’s Office, in Room CH 124 of the Douglas County Courthouse, 1036 SE Douglas Avenue, Roseburg, Oregon, or call (541) 440-4252, or visit our website at https://douglascountyor.gov/elections.

 

Please note: State Voters’ Pamphlets are compiled and distributed by the Oregon Secretary of State’s office. Once available, an electronic and audio version can be found on the State’s website at: http://sos.oregon.gov/voting/Pages/current-election.aspx.  The Douglas County Clerk’s is a division of Douglas County Government. 

 

###

 

Contact: Dan Loomis, County Clerk, Douglas County Clerk’s Office - (541) 440-4325 - dan.loomis@douglascountyor.gov

Salem, OR – April 20, 2026 –  On April 17, 2026, The Honorable Marion County Circuit Court Judge Tracy Prall sentenced defendant Christopher Atkinson, age 34, to 192 months in the Oregon Department of Corrections. Atkinson pled guilty to Manslaughter in the First Degree, Sexual Abuse in the Second Degree, Assault in the Third Degree, two counts of Assault in the Fourth Degree, and Driving Under the Influence.

 

The conviction stems from two separate incidents that occurred in March 2025.  On March 10, 2025 Atkinson secured a hotel room for himself, and three juveniles.  He provided BuzzBallz “Biggies” to the juveniles.  The defendant and a 16-year-old victim engaged in inappropriate sexual conduct while she was under the influence of alcohol.

 

Later that month, on March 23, the defendant was driving in his vehicle with four passengers, including the victim from the previous event, between the ages of 12-16 of age.  While speeding east on Fern Ridge Road SE, the defendant lost control of his vehicle, a white Mercedes sedan.  The car skidded off the road and flipped upside down, ejecting the passenger (age 16) riding in the back seat on the right side of the vehicle which resulted in her death. The 12-year-old in the vehicle was intubated at Salem Hospital and then flown via life flight to OHSU with significant injuries. The defendant initially tried to walk away from the scene but returned.

 

The defendant admitted that he had been driving with the juveniles for a few hours, and everyone was smoking and drinking.  Atkinson provided alcohol, nicotine, and marijuana to the juveniles.  He admitted to driving at speeds near 100mph during the evening.  A bong, commonly used for smoking marijuana, was found in the vehicle.

 

“This was a heartbreaking and entirely preventable tragedy,” said Chief Deputy DA Brendan Murphy. “The defendant’s decisions resulted in the loss of a young life, and our office will continue to hold offenders accountable for devastating choices like this.”

 

Deputy District Attorney Shannon Sullivan represented the state in this case. The Marion County DA’s Office wishes to thank the community partners who helped in the investigations in both cases. Our community is made better because of the work of Liberty House, the Salem Police Department and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.

APPLICANT REVIEW COMMITTEE

MEETING CANCELLED

 

The Applicant Review Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting scheduled for April 22, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., has been cancelled due to a lack of agenda items.

 

The next Applicant Review Committee meeting is scheduled for May 20, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.

At approximately 9:36 am the Albany Police Department responded to a wanted subject identified as Alan William Dude, 43 years of age, of Albany in front of the Linn County Courthouse.  Dude was parked in a vehicle in the 300 block of SW 4TH Avenue, Albany, Oregon after failing to show up for a Linn County Circuit Court trial that was scheduled to begin today.  Upon contact with Dude, responding officers saw what appeared to be a firearm in his hand.  Officers immediately established a secure perimeter and initiated safety protocols to protect the public.  Surrounding streets were closed and the Linn County Courthouse, Albany City Hall and surrounding businesses were restricted and locked down while the Linn Benton Regional SWAT Team responded to the scene. 

 

Crisis negotiators engaged in conversation with Dude in an effort to bring the incident to a peaceful resolution.  After an extended unsuccessful negotiation, Dude began to reach for a firearm and the Linn Benton Regional SWAT Team used less than lethal munitions to subdue him.  He was taken into custody at 1:27 pm without injury to the public, law enforcement personnel.  Dude was treated for minor injuries at the scene by the Albany Fire Department. 

 

The streets, businesses and public buildings were reopened for normal traffic at approximately 1:50 pm.

 

The Albany Police Department would like to thank the Linn Benton Regional SWAT Team, the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, the Oregon State Police, and the Albany Fire Department for their immediate response and assistance. We would also like to acknowledge our incredible community that acted with composure during a very serious situation.

For Immediate Release: April 13, 2026

Media Contact:  Communications@employ.oregon.gov;

 

Juan Serratos Named director of Paid Leave Oregon

 

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Employment Department (OED) has named Juan Serratos as the new Director of Paid Leave Oregon. Serratos has served as acting director of Paid Leave since July 2025 and has been part of the program’s leadership team since 2022. He has played an integral role in helping Paid Leave become a reliable source of support for workers and families across Oregon and a model for paid family and medical leave programs nationwide.

 

“Juan has a unique skill set and proven experience building and leading one of Oregon’s most important public service programs,” said Oregon Employment Department Director Andrew R. Stolfi. “He brings deep operational knowledge, strong leadership, and a commitment to serving Oregonians. Paid Leave Oregon is in good hands under Juan’s leadership.”

 

Serratos joined Paid Leave Oregon in January 2022 as deputy director after leading the Unemployment Insurance Benefits Services section beginning in 2019. He brings more than 17 years of public service experience, including work at Human Solutions, the Oregon Department of Human Services, and the Oregon Department of Justice. At OED, he helped rapidly build up the Benefits Services team during the pandemic response and has been a key leader in building Paid Leave Oregon from the ground up.

 

Since launching benefits in 2023, the program has become an essential part of Oregon’s support system for workers and families across the state. In 2025, the program served 103,000 people and their families and paid out more than $783 million in benefits.

 

“I’m proud of what this team has built,” said Serratos. “We’ve created a program that Oregonians can count on during some of the most important moments in their lives. I’m honored to continue leading this work as we strengthen customer service, keep the program running well, and make sure it remains sustainable and dependable for the people who rely on it.”

 

Paid Leave Oregon provides benefits to workers who need time away from work for some of life’s most important and difficult moments. The program supports employees who need to care for themselves or a family member with a serious medical condition, bond with a new child after birth, adoption, or foster placement, or take safe leave related to domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, or harassment.

 

Through partial wage replacement, Paid Leave Oregon helps workers take needed time off without losing all of their income, and it helps employers retain experienced employees who might otherwise be forced to leave the workforce. Eligible employees can receive up to 12 weeks of benefits per year, helping reduce the pressure to choose between a paycheck, a job, and caring for themselves or their families. Learn more at paidleave.oregon.gov.

 

###

 

The Oregon Employment Department (OED) provides economic stability to Oregon communities by providing vital services to both businesses and workers.  OED supports businesses with finding qualified job candidates, labor market information, tax incentives and support, and retaining talent through economic downturns. OED promotes employment through wage replacement benefits during unemployment and significant life events, job placement, training, and useful career information. Learn more at employment.oregon.gov. 

 

Paid Leave Oregon provides temporary, paid time away from work so employees can have financial security when experiencing significant life events. Covered events include welcoming a new child, recovering from a serious health condition, caring for a family member with a serious health condition, or addressing issues related to sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, or harassment. Paid leave benefits help Oregonians stay connected to their jobs and maintain financial stability during these major personal events. Learn more at paidleave.orogon.gov.

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

 

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

BAKER CITY, Ore. – The Bureau of Land Management invites the public to explore Oregon’s living cultural traditions through a new interpretive folklife series at the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center beginning this week.

 

The series aligns with America’s 250th anniversary by highlighting the people, traditions, and cultural knowledge that have shaped the nation over time. Visitors can experience firsthand how traditional arts connect past and present while supporting the BLM’s mission.

 

From April through October, visitors will have interactive opportunities that represent Native American, ranching, and rural lifeways. Presentations will take place daily at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. Pacific Time, offering deeper insight into each artist’s craft and cultural background.

 

April 23-25, Sara Barton, traditional basket maker of Mono Lake Paiute and Yosemite Miwuk ancestry works closely with Burns Paiute weavers

May 7-9, Kathy Moss, cowboy poet, buckaroo, horse trainer, and rancher from Prairie City

June 18-20, Roberta Kirk, regalia maker, food gatherer, and bead and dentalium artist from Warm Springs, Tenino and Wasq’u

July 9-11, Cheryl Newhouse, spinner and weaver from Richland

August 13-15, Mildred Quaempts, dentalium artist from the Confederated Tribes of Umatilla

September 24-26, Clair Kehrberg, saddle and gear maker and leatherworker from John Day

October 15-17, Katie Harris Murphy and Mary Harris, regalia and beadwork artists from the Wallowa Band Nimiipuu, Cayuse, Umatilla, and Karuk Tribes

 

“This interpretive outreach brings people face-to-face with the traditions that continue to shape communities across Oregon,” said Robert Reis, acting manager for the Interpretive Center. “These demonstrations create a meaningful connection to the past through the skills and knowledge that are still practiced today.”

 

This series is designed to build long-term, high-quality cultural programming at the Interpretive Center, ensuring visitors can engage with authentic traditions and perspectives for years to come.

 

The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is located at 22267 Highway 86 in Baker City and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT. Admission fees apply. For more information, visit the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center website or call 541-523-1843.

-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.

 

HAPPY VALLEY, Ore. – Six Oregon military veterans were inducted into the 2026 Oregon Military Hall of Honor during a formal ceremony held at Camp Withycombe in Happy Valley, Oregon, on April 18, 2026, in recognition of their acts of heroism and exceptional service to the nation.

 

The six inductees, all of whom served in the U.S. Army or the Oregon Army National Guard, are Specialist 5th Class Carston R. “Bud” Calkin, Sergeant First Class Riley E. Lott, Jr., Command Sergeant Major Brunk Conley, Major Charles “Larry” Diebert, Lieutenant Colonel Leonard DeWitt, and General Daniel R. Hokanson.

 

“The men chosen for this year's Oregon Military Hall of Honor have shown acts of valor ‘above and beyond the call of duty,’ as well as exceptional post-service contribution in the community or state,” said Daniel Lacy, a member of the Forward Assist Board of Directors and the Master of Ceremonies for the event.

 

Both Command Sgt. Maj. Conley and Gen. Hokanson began their careers on active duty before joining the Oregon National Guard. They addressed the audience, describing the military careers that took them to the highest levels of service at the Pentagon. Spc. 5 Carston, Sgt. 1st Class Lott, Maj. Diebert and Lt. Col. DeWitt were honored posthumously by friends, family members, and fellow veterans.

 

“This story is about the Oregon National Guard, and the organization that learned to love,” Conley said. “I became a team leader as I focused on being a guardsman and citizen-soldier.”

 

As the last of the six inductees to address the audience, Hokanson acknowledged both veterans who have worn the nation's uniform and those currently serving.

 

“I look at the example that each of us sets. I go back to whether someone served or not; that's important in how we conduct ourselves," Hokanson said. "We also need to tell our story to the next generation. That's why today's event is important.”

 

-30-

 

Released Imagery:

 

260418-Z-CH590-1124: Oregon Army National Guard Gen. (ret.) Daniel R. Hokanson, former Adjutant General of the Oregon National Guard and Chief of the National Guard Bureau (left), receives his Hall of Honors citation from Daniel Lacy (right) during the 2026 Hall of Honors ceremony at Camp Withycombe in Happy Valley, Oregon, on April 18, 2026. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

 

260418-Z-CH590-1115: Oregon Army National Guard (ret.) Command Sgt. Maj. Brunk Conley, 10th Command Sergeant Major of the Army National Guard (left), receives his Hall of Honors citation from Daniel Lacy (right) during the 2026 Hall of Honors ceremony at Camp Withycombe in Happy Valley, Oregon, on April 18, 2026. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

 

260418-Z-CH590-1126: Oregon Army National Guard Maj. Gen. (ret.) Raymond F. Rees, former Adjutant General of the Oregon National Guard, presents the Hall of Honors induction citation to Suzanne Diebert, the wife of Maj. Charles “Larry” Diebert was posthumously awarded during the 2026 Hall of Honors ceremony at Camp Withycombe in Happy Valley, Oregon, on April 18, 2026. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

 

260418-Z-CH590-1104: An Oregon Army National Guard Color Guard presents the nation's colors during the playing of the National Anthem to open the 2026 Hall of Honors ceremony at Camp Withycombe in Happy Valley, Oregon, on April 18, 2026. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

 

Video B-Roll:  https://www.dvidshub.net/video/1003024/2026-oregon-military-hall-honors-induction-ceremony

 

 

State of Oregon v. Elijah G. Arce

Marion County Circuit Court Case 25CR43807

Jury Conviction Leads to Prison Sentence in Child Kidnapping Case

 

Salem, OR – April 17, 2026 –  On April 17, 2026 Marion County Circuit Court Judge Jodie Bureta sentenced Elija G. Arce (age 49) to 300 months (25 years) in the Oregon Department of Corrections, and a life-time of post-prison supervision. He will be required to register as a sex offender.

 

Arce’s conviction is the result of a missing child incident that occurred on August 5, 2025.  The parents of the victim, a minor, reported her missing from their Northeast Salem home.  The defendant had lured the victim away and escorted her several blocks to a secluded area concealed by fencing and shrubbery.  Officers canvassed the neighborhood, and a bloodhound from Salem Police Department, named Trusty, was deployed.  A neighbor heard about the missing child and to help, began searching the area near the fairgrounds. He came upon where the defendant had hidden and saw the defendant with his arms around the child. He flagged down police officers and directed them to the hidden location. Officers climbed through a nearby cut in the fence, secured the child, and arrested the defendant.

 

The conviction followed unanimous guilty verdicts issued by a Marion County jury. Arce was convicted of Kidnapping in the First Degree, Kidnapping in the Second Degree, Sexual Abuse in the First Degree, Attempted Rape in the First Degree, and Attempted Unlawful Delivery of Methamphetamine.

 

This case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Katharine Semple. She referred to it as “a parent’s worst nightmare.”

 

“DDA Semple is correct- this is every parent’s worst nightmare.  That’s why I’m grateful for community members who have so much care for the well-being of our children,” said Chief Deputy District Attorney Brendan Murphy. “This type of criminal behavior is intolerable. We will continue to aggressively prosecute these types of crimes, and Judge Bureta’s sentence speaks to that violation.”

 

The Marion County DA’s Office wishes to acknowledge the swift and thorough investigation of the Salem Police Department, and particularly the actions of Detective Court Kirksey.  Additional gratitude is extended to the Keizer Police Department and the Oregon State Police for their respective roles in the search and for covering Salem Police calls for service while the search took place. 

 

Due to the involvement of a child victim, no additional details will be released.

####

DPSST WILDLAND FIRE CERTIFICATION TASK FORCE

MEETING SCHEDULED

 

 

The Wildland Fire Cerifitation Task Force will hold a regular meeting at 0900 on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. This meeting will be held in Room E-113C. For further information, please contact Brooke Bell-Uribe (503) 569-8260.

 

To view the Wildland Fire Certification Task Force live-stream and other recorded videos, please visit DPSST’s official YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.

Agenda Items:

 

This agenda is a guidline. Depending on the decisions and directions of the Task Force, this agenda is subject to change at the discretion of the Chair and Task Force Members. 

 

1. Meeting called to order at 0900

 

2. Rules of Engagement

 

3. Establish the Chair and Vice Chair of the committee

 

4. Discussion identifying various updates to PMS 310-1 that will impact DPSST Fire Certification

 

5. Discuss Wildland Training that goes towards certification 

 

6. Discuss Adoption or removal of levels of certification

 

7. Discuss the Wildland Application for Certification

 

8. Discuss Wildland Task Book

 

9. Discuss Wildland Guide to Certification

 

10. Discuss OAR as related to Wildland levels 

 

Administrative Announcement

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

CLACKAMAS COUNTY, Ore. (17 April 2026) – An Oregon State Police Internet Crimes Against Children operation recently led to the arrest of a Clackamas County man.

 

On March 31, 2026, an Oregon State Police detective portraying a 16-year-old female was contacted through an online application by Levi F. Wallace (44). Wallace carried on a weeklong sexually explicit conversation with the detective and sent sexually explicit photos.

 

On April 16, 2026, with the help of the U.S. Marshals Task Force, Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, Portland Police Bureau, Molalla Police Department, and Milwaukie Police Department, Wallace was arrested at his home in Colton.

Wallace was lodged at the Clackamas County Jail on four felony warrants, including child luring, online sexual corruption of a minor, and encouraging child sex abuse in the second degree for a similar operation that occurred in 2024. Wallace was also lodged in Clackamas County on additional charges for the current case of luring a minor, online sexual corruption of a minor in the second degree, and failing to register as a sex offender.  

 

Anyone with additional information is asked to contact OSP’s Northern Command Center dispatch at 800-442-0779 or by calling OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP26-108600.

 

Oregon State Police reminds parents to help keep their children safe by monitoring online activity, setting strict privacy settings, and ensuring personal photos are not shared online. 

 

# # #

 

About the Oregon State Police

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

LINCOLN COUNTY, Ore. (17 April 2026) – On Thursday, April 16, 2026, at 1:16 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 20 near milepost 1 in Lincoln County.

 

The preliminary investigation indicated a silver Chrysler Town & County van, operated by Rosalea Ann Engelbrecht (77) of Waldport, was traveling westbound on Hwy. 20 near Newport when it began to veer into the oncoming lane for an unknown reason. An eastbound gray Toyota Highlander, operated by John Sterling Daigle (82) of Newport, attempted to avoid the Chrysler van; however, the van continued across the eastbound lane and collided head-on with the Toyota Highlander.

 

The operator of the Chrysler (Engelbrecht) was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries and was later pronounced deceased at the hospital.

 

The operator of the Toyota (Daigle) was transported to an area hospital with minor injuries.

 

A Toyota passenger, Vicki Ray Bock (77) of Newport, was transported to an area hospital with minor injuries.

 

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

 

OSP was assisted by the Newport Police Department, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Newport Fire Department, Pacific West Ambulance, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
 

# # #

 

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

April 17, 2026

 

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

 

REMINDER: Virtual measles briefing today

 

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Health & Science University physicians will discuss measles and answer reporter questions during a virtual media briefing at 1 p.m. today (Friday, April 17).

 

Reporters can join via Zoom at this link. A livestream for the public is available via YouTube at this link.

 

Speakers include:

• Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed., health officer and state epidemiologist at OHA’s Public Health Division.
• Dawn Nolt, M.D., MPH, professor of pediatric infectious diseases at OHSU’s Doernbecher Children’s Hospital.

 

For more information about measles, visit OHA’s measles page.

 

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