NEW YEAR’S SAFETY

Among all the fun and noise of a New Year’s celebration, it’s important to ensure festivities are safe. If alcohol is involved, there should be people in attendance who are designated to stay sober and ensure safety. While laws can help prevent mishaps, people making the right choices and being respectful of each other will help keep people safe while still having fun. The responsibility and much of the liability of a safe party remains with the host. If you are hosting a party, there are safety measures you can implement to keep people safe and reduce liability during New Year celebrations.

Party Safety Tips:

• Use common sense. This includes not driving after drinking or using substances.
• Designate a non-drinking driver before the party.
• Utilize public transportation where available.
• Consider spending the night at the party location.
• If you are hosting a party, ensure that nonalcoholic drinks are also served.
• Communicate with neighbors before the party. Work together to respectfully address noise levels and other potential disturbances.
• Have the courage to refuse serving a friend a drink if they are acting strange or are intoxicated.
• Do not pressure friends to drink if they say no, have a drinking problem, or are already intoxicated.
• Consider the safety and welfare of pets. Loud music, people, and fireworks can result in distress.
• Ensure that pets have ID tags with current information on them and that they are safely secured before the party. Ensure pet licenses and microchips are updated so they can be easily reunited with you.
• Candles, fireworks, kids, and pets don’t mix. Keep them away from each other.

Use Caution When Consuming Alcohol

There can be misconceptions about different types of alcohol and their effects. For instance, beer and wine are just as intoxicating as distilled spirits. A 12-ounce can of beer, a five-ounce glass of wine, a 12-ounce wine cooler, and an ounce and a half of liquor contain nearly the same amount of alcohol.

While it is important to limit alcohol and stay hydrated, juices, sodas, and other mixers won't help dilute alcohol; they just make alcohol tastier. Alcoholic drinks using artificial sweeteners lead to a higher rate of alcohol absorption resulting in a greater blood alcohol concentration compared to drinks made with sugar-based mixers. Carbonated mixers like club soda or tonic water cause alcohol to be absorbed more quickly. Fruit juice and other sweet mixers mask the taste of alcohol and may cause people to drink more. Use caution when mixing drinks or serving sweet beverages, these can lead to accidental over-consumption of alcohol.

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

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COOS COUNTY, Ore. (24 December 2025) – On Monday, Dec. 22, 2025, at 5:19 p.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash involving a pedestrian on Highway 42 near milepost 20 in Coos County.
 

The preliminary investigation indicated a white Ford Ranger, operated by Crystal Leann Joffroy (45) of Coos Bay, was traveling eastbound on Hwy. 42 when it struck a pedestrian, Faith Scarlet Rose Andersen (29) of Myrtle Point, who was standing in the travel lane for an unknown reason.  
 

The pedestrian (Andersen) was pronounced deceased at the scene.
 

The operator of the Ford Ranger (Joffroy) was not injured.
 

The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Myrtle Point Police Department, the Myrtle Point Fire Department, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.     

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

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Stephen Wayne Newell, died the morning of December 24, 2025. Newell was incarcerated at Snake River Correctional Institution (SRCI) in Ontario and passed away in the infirmary while on hospice care. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified, and the State Medical Examiner will determine cause of death.

Newell entered DOC custody on November 14, 2024, from Josephine County with an earliest release date of July 23, 2033. Newell was 47 years old. Next of kin has been notified.

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

SRCI is a multi-custody prison in Ontario. Additional information about the Oregon Department of Corrections can be found at www.oregon.gov/doc.

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DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. – The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the disappearance of a Christmas Valley man whose vehicle was previously located abandoned in the Elliott State Forest, and investigators are again asking for the public’s assistance.

Since the initial report, Douglas County Search and Rescue, along with teams from Josephine, Jackson, Siskiyou, and Klamath Counties have conducted supplemental searches in and around the area where the vehicle was found. Those efforts did not reveal any additional information or result in locating 61-year-old Robert Cotter.

The investigation remains ongoing, and deputies continue to follow up on leads and information related to Cotter’s disappearance. Cotter was last seen on November 2, 2025, and his white 2002 Ford utility pickup was discovered unoccupied on November 30, 2025, on an unmaintained roadway in the Elliott State Forest near Loon Lake.

The Sheriff’s Office is again asking anyone who may have seen Cotter, had contact with him, or observed his vehicle after November 2^nd to come forward. Even information that may seem minor could be helpful to the investigation. Please call (541) 440-4471 and reference Douglas County Sheriff’s Office case #25-4113.

In addition to the agencies listed above, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office has received investigative assistance from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.

December 23, 2025

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

Recreational use advisory lifted for Upper Klamath Lake

Continue to keep pets away as levels detected remain above educational guideline values for animals

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Upper Klamath Lake in Klamath County.

OHA issued the advisory July 24.

Water monitoring has confirmed the level of cyanotoxins in Upper Klamath Lake are below recreational guideline values for people. However, levels detected are still above OHA’s educational guideline values for dogs, and owners should keep their pets away from these areas.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable. Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom, exposures and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

When recreating, people, and especially small children, and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water. If you see these signs, avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities, and keep pets out of the area.

Cyanotoxins can still exist in clear water. When a bloom dies, toxins released may reach into clear water around the bloom. Blooms can be pushed into other areas, leaving toxins behind. There also are species of cyanobacteria that anchor themselves at the bottom of a water body, live in the sediment, or can grow on aquatic plants and release toxins into clear water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

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December 23, 2025

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory lifted for Prineville Reservoir

PORTLAND, Ore. - Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Prineville Reservoir in Crook County.

OHA issued the advisory Oct 13.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Prineville Reservoir are below recreational guideline values for people and below safety values for dogs.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable. Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom, exposures and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

When recreating, people, and especially small children, and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water. If you see these signs, avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities, and keep pets out of the area.

Cyanotoxins can still exist in clear water. When a bloom dies, toxins released may reach into clear water around the bloom. Blooms can be pushed into other areas, leaving toxins behind. There also are species of cyanobacteria that anchor themselves at the bottom of a water body, live in the sediment, or can grow on aquatic plants and release toxins into clear water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

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December 23, 2025

Media contact: Timothy Heider, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory lifted for Thief Valley Reservoir

Continue to keep pets away as levels detected remain above educational guideline values for animals

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Thief Valley Reservoir in Baker and Union Counties.

OHA issued the advisory on Aug 20.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Thief Valley Reservoir are below recreational guideline values for people.

However, levels detected are still above OHA’s educational guideline values for dogs, and owners should keep their pets away from these areas.

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable.

Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom. Learn more about potential exposures and symptoms here.

When recreating on, or in the water, people, and especially small children, and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green or blue-green, or if thick brownish-red mats are visible or bright green clumps are suspended in the water.

If you see these signs, avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities, and keep pets out of the area.

Cyanotoxins can still exist in clear water. When a bloom dies, toxins released may reach into clear water around the bloom. Blooms can be pushed into other areas, leaving toxins behind. There also are species of cyanobacteria that anchor themselves at the bottom of a water body, live in the sediment, or can grow on aquatic plants and release toxins into clear water.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 971-673-0482, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

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In 1999, the Oregon Legislature passed HB 2977, Mandatory Boater Education, requiring operators of motorboats with engines greater than 10 horsepower and youth 12-15 years of age operating any size motorboat, to take a course on basic boating skill and/or pass an equivalency exam to demonstrate basic boating knowledge. The primary reason for passing the law was to reduce accidents, injuries, deaths, property damage, and conflict on Oregon’s waterways. Oregon was the first state west of the Mississippi to enact an education requirement. Today, there are more than 45 states and U.S. territories that require some form of boating safety education.

Back in 1999, the Oregon Legislature gave the agency three years to implement the program, first offering a home-study and mail-in application option between 2000 and 2003. Then in 2003, the age phase-in began and ended in 2009, when all boaters, regardless of age, had to meet the education requirement.

From the beginning, the Marine Board wanted to have plenty of options for boating safety education by offering internet, in-person classroom, and equivalency exams for boaters to choose from. When the age phase-in began in 2003, there were three approved Internet course providers. The Marine Board also partnered with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, US Power Squadrons (America’s Boating Club), and the Red Cross to offer classroom courses around the state. Additionally, the agency developed its own volunteer instructor program with certified instructors teaching the “Boat Oregon” classroom course. The third option available for boaters included equivalency exams, offered through certified Boat Oregon instructors or county Sheriff’s Offices with approved marine patrol proctors. The three options remain today, and approved internet courses have expanded, including courses in Spanish. Virtual classes are also offered throughout the year in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Of note, when the law was passed in 1999, the accident reporting threshold was set at $500. In 2001, the threshold was increased to $2,000 to reduce the number of reports for minor damage and to align with changes in the cost of boat repairs. This reporting change is evident in a significant drop (in the chart below) in 2001. What’s more, the data below for accidents (incidents) and fatalities includes non-motorized boaters per reporting requirements for the U.S. Coast Guard. Since 2010, paddling in Oregon and across the nation has shown exponential growth. Motorized boating incidents and fatalities have been declining on average over the last 15 years.

The inference can be made based on submitted boating incident reports, indicating whether the boat operator did not have a boating safety education card.

Very little has changed in the Marine Board’s administrative rules for the program in reference to ORS 830.082 for the Mandatory Boating Safety Education Program. The program has been self-supporting through boating education card fees with very little agency administration and does not rely on other funding. In the past 25 years, the price of the lifetime card increased once, from $10 in 2000 to $20 in 2020. Replacement cards increased from $8 in 2000 to $16 in 2020. The increase was due to other rising costs in US mail postage, other supplies, and the card printing itself.

Course options remain the same, although approved internet courses have modernized, giving the student an interactive learning experience. Oregon-specific course content and testing are routinely updated to remain relevant to current national standards or changes in state boating laws. The agency now offers a digital Boat Oregon classroom course manual, also available in Vietnamese, Simple Chinese, Russian, and Spanish.

With the popularity and growth in paddling, the agency encourages people who recreate in kayaks, canoes, rafts, and stand up paddleboards to take advantage of FREE online paddling safety courses. They’re fun, interactive, and outline not only Oregon state boating laws, but also other important tips to reduce accidents out on the water.

Currently, over 439,700 education cards have been issued, and Oregon’s boating safety education program continues to be a model for other states and territories.

The BEC is a lifetime card and must be carried by the operator when the boat is in use. The BEC must be shown to a marine law enforcement officer upon request.

Visit Boat.Oregon.gov to learn more about all things recreational boating.

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Safety tips for coastal beach visitors during rainy season

Salem, OR – December 23, 2025 – Marion County District Attorney Paige Clarkson supports local public safety professionals in their opposition to Salem City Council’s appointment of convicted murderer, Kyle Hedquist. Hedquist was appointed to serve on the Community Police Review Board and the Civil Service Commission.

District Attorney Clarkson openly opposed the 2022 sentence commutation by then Governor Brown, expressing her “significant safety concerns surrounding the sudden and ill-planned governor’s commutation” of the Hedquist’s original life sentence. As to the nature of his crimes, Clarkson informed our community that “Hedquist tricked the victim into driving him to a rural Douglas County location where he shot the victim execution-style in the back of the head and dumped her body along the road.” (see the April 22, 2022 Press Release titled Notice Regarding Recent Governor Brown’s Commutation of Convicted Aggravated Murder.)

She stands by her original comments and upon learning of the Salem Police & Fire Unions’ opposition to the Salem City Council vote to place Hedquist on these important public safety oversight boards added,  “Common sense standards should exist for those that serve on key community boards – especially those with direct impact on our public safety professionals who risk their lives every day in service to our community. While I acknowledge there are certainly appropriate ways for those who have completed their full sentences and displayed honest rehabilitation to give back in our County, this is not one of them.  Our police and fire professionals have a right to expect better from city leadership.”

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About Marion County District Attorney’s Office

DOUGLAS COUNTY (23 December 2025) – The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is investigating a report of bull elk that was shot and left to waste on Nov. 22, 2025, the opening day of Tioga Second Season. The bull elk was left in the area of the 8400 line near Bear Creek off Hubbard Creek, Umpqua, in Douglas County.

OSP Fish and Wildlife received a report of someone hearing a gun shot on the foggy opening morning around daylight. The next day, the reporting person was hunting in the same area and located the dead bull. The individual noticed three male subjects – possibly a grandfather, father, and son – walking in the area the bull elk was found. The men were all wearing camouflage clothing and were not carrying firearms. However, the bull elk was not recovered from the clear-cut area.

Fish and Wildlife troopers are asking if anyone shot and lost a bull elk in the area, or knows of someone who did, contact the Turn In Poachers (TIP) line at 800-452-7888 or call OSP (677) from a mobile device. Please refer to case number SP25-479764.

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.

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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.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE    

Media hotline: 503-813-6018  

Pacific Power is prepared to respond to weather-related outages ahead of forecast storm

PORTLAND, Ore., (Dec. 23, 2025) — Pacific Power is monitoring a significant storm system off the coast that could bring high winds to large parts of Oregon and northern California, which could cause power outages.  

Pacific Power’s meteorology team is closely monitoring the approaching storm and crews are ready to respond to any weather-related outages.   

Pacific Power encourages customers to always be prepared for outages and supports state and local emergency management organizations, who recommend Oregonians have an emergency plan for up to 72 hours without essential services.   

Here are some simple steps customers can take to prepare and stay informed:     

• Update your contact information so we can reach you.   
• Sign up to receive outage alerts by text, email or phone.   
• Restock your outage kit.   
• Keep mobile devices charged so that they may be used in an emergency.   
• Track outages, update contact info and do more with our free app.   
• Text OUT to 722797 to report your outage or STAT to check status.    

Visit PacificPower.net/Outages for restoration estimates.   

As a reminder, stay away from all downed power lines and utility lines. Even if the lines are not sparking, they could be energized and extremely dangerous. Customers should avoid both downed trees and powerlines as well as keep pets far away from those areas.    

Call 911 and report the outage to Pacific Power at 1-877-508-5088.    

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About Pacific Power  

Pacific Power provides safe and reliable electric service to more than 800,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. The company supplies customers with electricity from a diverse portfolio of generating plants including hydroelectric, natural gas, coal, wind, geothermal and solar resources. Pacific Power is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, with over two million customers in six western states. For more information, visit PacificPower.net.   

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SALEM, Ore. — On Monday, Dec. 22, at 5 p.m., the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) downgraded its Emergency Coordination Center (ECC) activation from Level 3 (Regional Response) to a Level 4 (Steady State) following the recent atmospheric river event that caused widespread flooding and landslides across the state. 

Recovery Efforts Continue Statewide 

 While the ECC has returned to a steady‑state posture, OEM remains fully engaged in recovery operations and is actively monitoring incoming weather and hazards. The ECC stands ready to increase activation levels if conditions change.  

“Oregon communities were hit hard by this storm, and our work is far from over,” said OEM Director of Recovery and Response Andrew Jahier. “We’re continuing to coordinate resources for affected areas, and the State Emergency Coordination Center remains ready to support local jurisdictions and coordination efforts to protect lives, property and the environment.” 

OEM is working closely with local jurisdictions and partners to ensure communities receive the assistance they need and is prepared to reactivate if the approaching high wind event over-extends local response resources. State Recovery Functions are active, and OEM is supporting Long-Term Recovery Groups and Community Organizations Active in Disaster to address disaster-related unmet needs. 

As always, OEM encourages anyone driving this week to check TripCheck.com for road hazards or closures, and to have a full tank of gas and fully stocked emergency car kit. Also, if you encounter a downed powerline, leave it alone and call 911. 

For more information on recovery efforts and disaster assistance, visit Oregon.gov/OEM

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Board of Forestry will meet at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 7. The meeting will be held in the Tillamook Room, Building C, at the Oregon Department of Forestry headquarters, located at 2600 State St. in Salem. The meeting is open to the public and will also be livestreamed on the department’s YouTube channel.

The board’s business agenda includes:

• Oregon Forest Resource Institute presentation values and beliefs survey
• 2025 Forest Practices Operator of the Year awards
• Review of Federal executive orders and update on United States wildland fire service

The full agenda is available on the board’s webpage.

Signing up for live testimony is required. Instructions are available online. Written testimony will also be accepted. Written comments can be submitted before or up to two weeks after the meeting day by mail to the Board Support Office, 2600 State St., Salem, OR 97310 or email to oardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov">boardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov. Please include the appropriate agenda item and topic with the submission.

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling ODF’s Public Affairs Office at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-945-7200 or by email at estryinformation@odf.oregon.gov">forestryinformation@odf.oregon.gov.

The Oregon Board of Forestry consists of seven citizens nominated by the Governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate. Responsibilities include appointing the State Forester, setting management direction for state-owned forests, adopting rules governing timber harvest and other practices on private forestland, and promoting sustainable management of Oregon’s 30-million-acre forestland base. Read more information about the board.

If you live in one of 19 Oregon counties and lost food bought with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits because of recent storms and power outages, you now have more time to ask for replacement benefits.

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) has extended the deadline to 30 days for people whose food was lost or spoiled due to power outages Dec. 17, 2025.

Households in the counties listed below have until Jan. 16, 2026, to report food losses and request replacement SNAP benefits.

Counties included in the extended deadline:

• Benton
• Clackamas
• Clatsop
• Columbia
• Coos
• Douglas
• Hood River
• Jefferson
• Klamath
• Lane
• Lincoln
• Linn
• Marion
• Multnomah
• Polk
• Tillamook
• Wallowa
• Washington
• Yamhill

What if I live in another county?

If you live outside these counties, the usual rule still applies.
You must report food losses within 10 days of the incident. ODHS may ask for proof.

How to request SNAP replacement benefits

If your food was lost because of the storms or power outages, you can request replacement benefits in any of these ways:

• Calling 800-699-9075, relay calls welcome
• Filling out a request form and emailing it to egon.benefits@odhsoha.oregon.gov">oregon.benefits@odhsoha.oregon.gov
• Visiting a local ODHS office
• By mail:
  ONE Customer Service Center
  PO Box 14015
  Salem, OR 97309
  (Mail must arrive by the deadline.)
• Online: Log in to your ONE Online account

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

Resources to help meet basic needs

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

When does the extended deadline end?

The extended deadline ends Jan. 16, 2026.
After that date, the 10-day reporting rule will apply again.

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

SALEM, Ore. — Retired U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. Cecil Owens has been appointed Oregon’s new state chair for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense program that helps strengthen relationships between the Guard and Reserve members and their civilian employers.

The ESGR program was established in 1972 to promote cooperation and understanding between service members and employers, educate employers about their responsibilities under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act, and recognize workplaces that support military employees.

Oregon is home to about 8,100 Guard and Reserve members. These Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen regularly deploy overseas and are also activated at home to support a variety of missions, including disaster response.
 

As state chair, Owens will lead a statewide team of volunteers focused on employer outreach, awards, and education programs. The position is the highest volunteer leadership role for ESGR in Oregon and is appointed by the Secretary of Defense.

“After 30 years of military service, ESGR gives me the chance to continue serving Soldiers and Airmen by ensuring they have strong support from their employers,” Owens said. “Supportive employers are essential to readiness and to the well-being of our service members and their families.”

Owens currently serves as director of the Oregon National Guard State ESGR Committee. He has also held leadership roles at both the state and national levels within ESGR.
 

ESGR relies on trained volunteers to help employers and service members navigate military service obligations and workplace responsibilities, resolve conflicts, and highlight employers who go above and beyond in supporting the Guard and Reserve. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Cecil Owens to this vital leadership role,” said John Sampa, national chair for ESGR. “His dedication and experience will be a tremendous asset as we continue to support our nation’s dedicated service members and their civilian employers.”

------------------------------------------

More information about ESGR and employer support resources is available at www.esgr.mil. A video interview with Owens is available at: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/976045/oregon-esgr-honors-cunningham-welcomes-
owens-new-state-chair

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Released Images: 

251110-A-ZJ128-5833.jpg: Oregon Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve State Chair Cecil Owens (left) pauses for a photo with Benton County commissioners and the Benton County sheriff at the Kalapuya Building in Corvallis, Ore., Nov. 10, 2025. (Oregon National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne)

251110-A-ZJ128-6880.jpg: Oregon Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve State Chair Cecil Owens (left) pauses for a photo with Sgt. 1st Class Cory Grogan (center) and Col. Paul Dyer, commander of the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, at the Kalapuya Building in Corvallis, Ore., Nov. 10, 2025. The group gathered after Owens and Dyer presented Benton County Government, Grogan’s employer, with the ESGR Seven Seals Award. (Oregon National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne)

251101-A-FS713-7026: Oregon Employer Support Guard & Reserve Chair Cecil Owens (Oregon National Guard photo by Oregon Army National Guard Sgt. 1st Class Cory Grogan)

On Monday, December 22, 2025, at approximately 10:20 a.m., a fire occurred in the Oregon Corrections Enterprises (OCE) Furniture Factory at Oregon State Penitentiary (OSP). The OCE building was immediately evacuated.

The fire was discovered when smoke was observed near the sawdust collector inside the building. The fire extended into the hopper located outside the building. OSP staff responded using fire extinguishers and contacted emergency services. The Salem Fire Department responded and successfully extinguished the fire. Fire personnel tested the air, conducted thermal imaging, and subsequently released the building back to OSP.

All OCE shops to include Call Center, Laundry, Metal Shop, and Furniture Factory were shut down as a precautionary measure and will resume operations Tuesday morning at 6:00 a.m. No injuries were reported.

OSP is a multi-custody prison located in Salem. Additional information about the Oregon Department of Corrections can be found at www.oregon.gov/doc.

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PR 17-25                                                           

BONNEVILLE POWER ADMINISTRATION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, Dec. 22, 2025
CONTACT: Kevin Wingert, 971-207-8390 or 503-230-5131

BPA set to provide low cost, reliable power for another two decades
More than 130 customer utilities in the Pacific Northwest signed long-term power contracts that enable continued growth and investment in the federal power and transmission systems

Portland, Ore. – Signed, sealed, delivered: Two more decades of reliable and low-cost power for the Pacific Northwest.

After several years of intense effort and collaboration under the Provider of Choice initiative, the Bonneville Power Administration executed new long-term wholesale electric power contracts with more than 130 Northwest public utility customers this fall.

“This is a watershed moment for BPA and our ratepayers,” said John Hairston, the agency’s administrator and CEO. “With these contracts in hand, we have the continuity and certainty necessary to continue building and expanding the value of the federal power and transmission systems that deliver vital, low-cost and reliable electricity to millions of residential, commercial and industrial consumers and serves as a cornerstone of the Pacific Northwest’s economy.”

These contracts provide BPA’s power customers with cost and rate stability, while providing a sturdy financial base for Bonneville as it works to ensure the region is ready to meet the increasing energy demands in the near term and the future.

With the Provider of Choice contracts signed, BPA is entering into a three-year implementation period to put the mechanisms in place to begin power sales in October 2028. The new 16-year power purchase agreements build upon the success of the Regional Dialogue contracts set to close in September 2028. The Regional Dialogue contracts created a foundation for stable, competitively priced and flexible power sales. BPA’s new long-term power contracts will continue to support regional economic stability and ensure public access to low-cost federal power. 

“As a commercial entity, BPA must re-earn its customers’ business each contract cycle to fulfill its mission and recover costs,” said Kim Thompson, vice president for Northwest Requirements Marketing. “My team approached Provider of Choice as a collaborative effort with customers, working hard to balance their needs and desires with sound business principles as well as preserve inter-customer equity. At times, it was challenging work, but I am so proud of BPA’s team and our customers for the success we achieved together.”

BPA began the Provider of Choice contract policy process in 2021 and spent four years engaging with customers and other regional stakeholders on policy and contract language. For the rate period beginning in October 2028, BPA will use the newly adopted Public Rate Design Methodology to establish rates under the forthcoming BP-29 Rate Case expected to launch in fall 2027.

Beyond Provider of Choice, BPA is working on several fronts to prepare for the region’s growing energy demand:

Columbia Generating Station uprate: BPA is working with Washington State’s Energy Northwest to improve the power output of the Columbia Generating Station, a nuclear power plant near Hanford, Washington. Once complete, the improvements will result in an additional plant output of roughly 160 megawatts by 2031 – enough energy to power approximately 125,000 homes.

Incremental hydropower increases: Alongside operating partners at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Bureau of Reclamation, BPA will continue to invest in the reliability, efficiency and capacity of the Federal Columbia River Power System. Investments in seven of the projects through 2050 will provide up to 330 average megawatts of additional energy for Bonneville customers and the region. These enhancements include high-efficiency turbine runners with improved fish passage designs, generator rewinds, and the installation of two new turbines.

Grid Access Transformation: BPA is working to streamline processes that allow power producers quicker access to the grid so they can get their energy to market faster. At the same time, BPA is working to shorten its construction time of new transmission lines from project design to completion. Over the next decade, the agency is investing up to $25 billion in transmission projects and reinforcements across the Northwest.

About BPA: BPA is a federal non-profit power marketing administration that delivers reliable, affordable and carbon-free hydropower produced in the Columbia River Basin to communities across the Northwest. BPA also owns and operates more than 15,000 circuit miles of high-voltage transmission lines and administers one of the largest, most comprehensive fish and wildlife conservation programs in the United States. More information about these and other activities is available on our Media Relations page.

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DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. - This holiday season, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office is partnering with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Oregon Impact (OI) to share the message about the dangers of drunk driving. The Sheriff’s Office, NHTSA and OI want all drivers to remember this lifesaving message: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over. Drivers will see officers working together December 10, 2025, through January 1, 2026, to take drunk drivers off the roads. Deputies will specifically work overtime during the enforcement period with a focus of identifying and stopping impaired drivers. Funding for the enforcement is made possible through DUII enforcement grant dollars.  
 

According to the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), pre-pandemic (2020) an average of 448 deaths and 1,739 serious injury crashes occurred on Oregon roadways. According to a June 2025 update by ODOT, post-pandemic numbers between 2021 and 2023 were alarming. Between the years 2021-2023, there were 1,789 deaths and 9,517 serious injuries reported. That is a 33% and 82% increase, respectively. On average, one person was killed in a drunk driving crash every 45 minutes in 2020. This is why the Sheriff’s Office is working together with NHTSA and OI to remind drivers that drunk driving is not only illegal, but also a matter of life and death. As you head out to the holiday festivities, remember: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.
 

“It’s so important that drivers act responsibly, and that includes refraining from impaired driving,” said Undersheriff Brad O'Dell. “The holidays are a special time of year for many, and we want our community members to enjoy this season. We need commitment from drivers that they’ll keep the roads free of drunk drivers so that everyone can have a safe holiday. This enforcement period allows us to get the message out that drunk driving is illegal and will not be tolerated. Help us put an end to this senseless behavior,” he said. 
 

The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, NHTSA and OI are reminding citizens of the many resources available to get them home safely. “Drunk driving is not acceptable behavior,” said Undersheriff O’Dell. “It is essential to plan a sober ride home before you ever leave for the party. There are too many options to get home safely. There are just no excuses for drunk driving,” he said.

The Sheriff’s Office recommends these safe alternatives to drinking and driving:

• Remember that it is never okay to drink and drive. Even if you’ve had only one alcoholic beverage. Designate a sober driver or plan to use a ride service, or call a taxi or a sober friend to get home safely. 
• If you see a drunk driver on the road, report them to law enforcement.
  • This behavior could include swerving in the lane, inconsistent speeds, quick braking, excessive speeds, careless driving and many others.
• Take the keys away from friends and family who are about to drive under the influence and make a plan to get them home safely. It may hurt their feelings, but it will likely save a life.

For more information about the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement period, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving. Click or tap if you trust this link.">www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving.

JOSEPHINE COUNTY, Ore. (22 Dec. 2025) – On Friday, December 19, 2025, at 11:45 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash on Interstate 5 near milepost 70 in Josephine County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a red GMC Jimmy, operated by Jimmy Warren Stanley (82) of Dunsmuir (CA), was traveling northbound on I-5 when it veered off the roadway for an unknown reason onto the gravel shoulder. The vehicle rolled over, and the operator was ejected from the vehicle.

The operator (Stanley) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation.
 

OSP was assisted by Rural Metro Fire, American Medical Response (AMR) ambulance service, 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 that investigates 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.

Springfield, Ore. — Bureau of Land Management officials recently began the annual shift to winter operations at Hult Dam. As winter rainfall increases, the BLM increases the amount of water passing through the dam to mitigate the risk of the reservoir overflowing.

“To protect downstream communities, we partially open the valve in the winter so heavy seasonal flows of water can safely pass through the dam,” said Sarah Bickford, Siuslaw Field Manager. “Public safety is our first priority, and we don’t want excess water building up behind the aging dam.”

The BLM partially opened the valve on Dec 17 to bring the water level to the ideal height just above the spillway. Staff further opened the valve the evening of Dec 18 after heavy rain and will make adjustments as needed. BLM engineers work with fisheries and wildlife staff to monitor the dam to reduce the chance of overflowing water and debris from the reservoir while protecting habitat.

While the BLM vigilantly monitors the reservoir, opening the valve during the winter does not fully eliminate the risk of an overflow event if an unusually significant rain or rain-on-snow event causes major flooding. Residents should stay aware of local forecasts and be prepared for extreme weather events.

The BLM plans to safely remove Hult Dam in the future. While the timeline is to be determined, additional details on the planning process can be found in the Hult Reservoir and Dam Safety Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), EIS Summary, and Record of Decision.

-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.

KLAMATH COUNTY, Ore. (22 Dec. 2025) – On Sunday, December 21, 2025, at 9:55 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 97 near milepost 181 in Klamath County.

The preliminary investigation indicated that a gold Chevrolet Silverado, operated by Cindy Rose Pearce (59) of Bend, was traveling southbound on Hwy. 97 when it crossed into the northbound lane after the operator lost control due to icy roadway conditions. The Silverado collided head-on with a northbound black Toyota Tacoma, operated by Kristara Leah Lopez (47) of Coos Bay, and then struck a blue Dodge Ram towing a small trailer, operated by Carl Michael Kelley (68) of Oakridge.
 

The operator of the Toyota Tacoma (Lopez) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The Toyota’s passenger, Gilberto Paez Lopez (59) of Coos Bay, was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.
 

The operator of the Chevrolet Silverado (Pearce) was transported to an area hospital with minor injuries.
 

The operator of the Dodge Ram (Kelley) and passenger, Terri Louise Kelley (59) of Oakridge, were transported to an area hospital with minor injuries.
 

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

OSP was assisted by the Crescent Fire District and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

# # #

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

Salem, OR – December 22, 2025 – In June of this year, Marion County District Attorney Paige Clarkson convened a grand jury inquiry into the conditions and management of the Oregon Youth Authority’s MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility. This inquiry is authorized pursuant to Oregon Revised Statute 132.440. (see below for original release)

At the time, District Attorney Clarkson stated: “I have grown increasingly concerned regarding the safety of youth placed at MacLaren.” “Unfortunately, the more we learn regarding what occurred under OYA’s former leadership, the more that I believe that I should use every tool I have to ensure that both youth and the staff who serve them are safe.” 

Today, the grand jury released its findings, substantiating the need for the inquiry and highlighting systemic challenges within the facility.

During the approximately six-month inquiry, the grand jury: held 13 sessions where they inquired into the conditions and management of MacLaren; heard over 40 hours of testimony from approximately 30 witnesses, which included OYA employees and management, as well as witnesses from Marion County Juvenile Department, juvenile prosecutors, juvenile justice experts, Oregon State Police, community partners, and others; considered hundreds of pages of documentary evidence; toured grounds and facilities at MacLaren on multiple occasions and the Marion County Juvenile Department one time.

The investigation uncovered several issues affecting the safety and well-being of youth and staff at MacLaren. The issues identified fell into the following broad categories: Identity; Staffing, Training and Retention; Youth Population and Behavioral Trends; Security and Control; Contraband and Facility Safety; Gang Activity; Mental Health and Treatment Gaps; Sexual Assault/Misconduct; Case Planning and Parole; Community Partner Impacts.

In addition to the findings and recommendations, the same grand jury issued 10 criminal indictments for behavior it considered while examining the backlog of cases and issues considered. These 10 cases added to the cases already pending from conduct at MacLaren.   

“Youth being served at Oregon’s closed custody facilities deserve to have the opportunity for rehabilitation in a safe and stable environment.  Hopefully, this is the beginning of a new chapter for MacLaren,” Clarkson stated. She added, “This is only a starting point and should serve as a catalyst for policy makers, state leaders, and experts to address these concerns and do better for both our youth and our communities.”

Chief Deputy District Attorney Brendan Murphy, who oversaw the grand jury proceedings, said, “The grand jury uncovered numerous areas for needed improvement at MacLaren.” He went on to say, “some of the issues they identified will need additional conversation and follow through, while others are common sense, reasonable reforms.”

 “I would like to thank the seven Marion County jurors,” Clarkson continued.  “These are seven individuals, chosen from our community by the court, who gave significant time and their best effort to help keep some of Oregon’s most vulnerable safe.” 

The grand jury also provided recommendations to OYA leadership, legislators, and community partners for consideration to restore safety and public confidence in MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility.  “The Marion County DA’s Office looks forward to ongoing conversation regarding how MacLaren can do better, but also for youth before, during, and after OYA custody,” Murphy said.

The Marion County Grand Jury’s 2025 report regarding MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility can be accessed here.

About Marion County District Attorney’s Office

The District Attorney’s Office is responsible for seeking justice through promoting accountability for criminal offenders; interpreting, enforcing, and executing law; responding to the concerns of victims and the public; and working cooperatively with members of the justice system.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Original News Release:

News Release from Marion Co. Dist. Attorney's Office
Posted on FlashAlert: June 16th, 2025 4:32 PM

Today, Marion County District Attorney Paige Clarkson announced that she has convened a grand jury to inquire into the conditions and management of MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility, the Oregon Youth Authority’s (OYA) largest closed custody detention facility, which is located in Woodburn, Marion County, Oregon.  This inquiry is authorized per Oregon Revised Statute 132.440. 

“I have grown increasingly concerned regarding the safety of youth placed at MacLaren.  Communities around this state rely on OYA to rehabilitate youth who have committed offenses that judges find justify detention.  It goes without saying that those same communities as well as judges, prosecutors, youth counsel, and families expect OYA to prioritize safety in that facility.  Unfortunately, the more we learn regarding what occurred under OYA’s former leadership, the more that I believe that I should use every tool I have to ensure that both youth and the staff who serve them are safe.” 

Over the past 12 months, the Marion County District Attorney’s Office has received more than 100 investigations of potential criminal conduct, some dating back several years, occurring at MacLaren.  That number does not include investigations sent to other DA offices1, nor does it include incidents that are merely administrative or incidents that did not rise to criminal investigatory levels.  These investigations do, however, include escapes, contraband possession, physical assaults on both youth and staff, riots, and most concerning, sexual assault.  Most of these investigations have been identified following the discovery of significant backlog in the Oregon Youth Authority’s Professional Standards Office.  That backlog prompted action by the Governor and drew the attention of legislators who have held hearings to oversee OYA administration.    

"I commend District Attorney Clarkson and Attorney General Rayfield for launching this joint inquiry. Maintaining the public’s trust in this state facility—and ensuring the safety and well-being of the youth it serves—are vital for a just and humane Oregon," said Senator Anthony Broadman, Co-Chair of the legislature's Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Public Safety. "We are eager to review the facts in their report this fall, and the committee will be ready to take appropriate action. We will not hesitate to implement reforms, ensure accountability, and make the changes necessary to protect those under the state's supervision,” continued Representative Paul Evans, Co-Chair of the legislature's Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Public Safety. 

“My office doesn’t receive state funds to address criminal behavior in state-run institutions,” District Attorney Clarkson further stated. “While we are accustomed to working with the Oregon State Police to manage cases arising from the numerous correctional facilities within our jurisdiction, the sheer number and seriousness of these MacLaren investigations is almost overwhelming.” 

Given this large volume of investigations combined with the statutory scope of the inquiry, DA Clarkson requested assistance from the Oregon Department of Justice.  Attorney General Dan Rayfield agreed and has assigned a Senior Assistant Attorney General to support the effort.  

Marion County Chief Deputy District Attorney Brendan Murphy, Senior DDA David Wilson, and Senior Assistant Attorney General Kurt Miller will oversee the proceedings.  Chief DDA Murphy has extensive experience with juvenile justice law and policy, is a member of the Oregon Juvenile Justice Policy Commission and was previously a member of the Supreme Court’s Juvenile Justice Mental Health Task Force.  He currently serves on OYA’s safety task force. Senior DDA Wilson has significant juvenile experience and oversees closed-custody prosecutions within the Marion County DAs Office. AAG Kurt Miller is a statewide expert on juvenile law, including waiver proceedings and jurisdictional authority. He has been specially deputized as a Marion County Deputy District Attorney for this purpose.  

Consistent with all matters that come before a grand jury, these proceedings are confidential.  As such, no further information will be released prior to the grand jury’s final report.  The Marion County District Attorney’s Office expects that the report will be completed by the end of the year and will be publicly released at that time.

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Coverage, savings, peace of mind: Oregon encourages health plan enrollment for 2026

The annual donation will help fund programs supporting the health and education of children and vulnerable families across Oregon and southwest Washington      

PORTLAND, Ore. — OnPoint Community Credit Union and its employees donated $66,253 this year to four United Way chapters serving Oregon and southwest Washington. This contribution marks OnPoint’s 19^th annual employee-led fundraising campaign, benefiting United Way in communities the credit union serves. Employees raised $51,253 through creative fundraisers, which OnPoint matched with an additional $15,000 corporate donation.

“Partnerships like this reflect the power of what we can accomplish for our communities together,” said Rob Stuart, president and chief executive officer, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “Our team is proud to support United Way’s efforts to expand education, health and family support programs throughout Oregon and southwest Washington.”

The campaign invited OnPoint’s more than 1,200 employees to make voluntary individual contributions to United Way through fundraisers such as prize drawings, vacation raffles, and Candy Grams. The donation will help fund health and education programs that provide kids and families with equitable opportunities to build a good quality of life. Examples include:

• United Way of the Columbia-Willamette’s Early Learning Hubs and other educational initiatives, connect parents and caregivers to free or low-cost preschool for their children, plus access to parenting workshops and classes.
• United Way of Linn, Benton and Lincoln Counties’ Linn Can, promotes the safety and well-being of Linn County’s children by raising public awareness about the effects of abuse and neglect.
• United Way of Central Oregon’s KIDS Center, provides no-cost evaluations, family support and therapy to victims of child abuse.
• United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley’s Enrichment Academy, is a before- and after-school program designed to increase student achievement, improve student and family engagement, reduce hunger, and increase wellness.

“We appreciate OnPoint’s continued commitment to our communities,” said Kelly O’Lague, president and CEO of United Way of the Columbia-Willamette. “Their support helps us provide reliable services that make a meaningful difference for families across the region.”

The United Way donation follows another impactful year for OnPoint’s annual giving program, donating more than $4 million to 357 nonprofits in Oregon and southwest Washington in 2025. Learn more about OnPoint’s work to address the most critical needs in the communities it serves.

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 About Onpoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in Oregon, serving more than 631,000 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.

About United Way of the Columbia-Willamette
For over 100 years, United Way of the Columbia-Willamette has helped meet the needs of vulnerable families in our region. As part of the United Way Worldwide network, the largest privately funded non-profit in the world, United Way of the Columbia-Willamette is uniquely positioned to connect and support the people, non-profits, businesses and government agencies working hard to address poverty in our region. United Way brings people together to build strong, equitable communities where everyone can thrive. As one of the world's largest privately funded charities, it serves 95% of U.S. communities and 37 countries and territories -- making life better for 48 million people every year. Through United Way, communities tackle tough challenges and work with private, public, and non-profit partners to boost education, economic mobility, and health resources. United Way is the mission of choice for 1.5 million volunteers, 6.8 million donors, and 45,000 corporate partners in more than 1,100 communities worldwide.

SALEM, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking public feedback on proposed rules governing unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) takeoff and landing in Oregon’s state parks and along the ocean shore.

The proposed rules establish where and how UAS may take off and land on state park property, to balance recreational opportunities with protection of natural, cultural, scenic and recreational resources.

Public comments on the proposed rule changes will be accepted beginning January 1, 2026 at 8:00 a.m. and can be submitted:

• Online:
  • https://www-auth.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/Pages/PRP-Rule-2025-Drones-Take-off-and-Landing.aspx
• By email:
  • D.PublicComment@oprd.oregon.gov">OPRD.PublicComment@oprd.oregon.gov
• By mail:
  • Oregon Parks and Recreations Department
    Attn: Robert Ellison
    725 Summer St. NE, Suite C
    Salem, OR 97301

A public hearing will be held to allow members of the public to provide testimony.

• Virtual hearing
  January 20, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.

Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_X3ChSlJkTE-Y3FRh3WIy-Q

The draft rules focus on regulating takeoff and landing locations, which are within the department’s authority, while recognizing that UAS flight is regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Under the proposal, UAS use would generally be limited to designated areas for drone operations, with additional requirements for commercial or research purposes.

The proposed rules were developed in response to Senate Bill 109 (2021), which directed OPRD to create a regulatory framework that provides recreational UAS access while protecting sensitive park resources and minimizing conflicts with other visitors.

OPRD convened a Rule Advisory Committee made up of recreation user groups, conservation organizations, natural resource specialists, commercial operators and other stakeholders. The committee reviewed draft rules and provided recommendations that helped shape the proposal now open for public comment.

Once the public comment period closes, OPRD staff will review all feedback, revise the draft rules as appropriate, and present a final proposal to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission for consideration later in 2026.

If adopted, the rules would be implemented in phases, allowing the department to adapt management strategies over time, based on resource conditions, visitor use and operational experience.

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LOOSE SEAL FOUND NEAR HIGHWAY

December 20, 2025 – Newport, OR

On December 20, 2025, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputies located a seal which had wandered up to Highway 101, near Milepost 146, and was moving on the shoulder of the roadway.  Out of concern for the safety of the animal and the individuals on the highway, Deputies swiftly took action and utilized a rope as a lead to prevent the seal from entering the highway. With the assistance of community members, a staff member from the Oregon Coast Aquarium was promptly notified and responded to the scene to secure our flippered friend.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Oregon State Police and the Oregon Coast Aquarium for their assistance in safely returning the seal to its home. We wish our new Pinniped pal all the best on his journey!

Traveling on the roads and highways of Lincoln County offer many wonderful sightseeing opportunities. However, we must also be mindful that this area is the natural habitat of several species of wildlife. It's important to be alert and aware of wildlife while commuting.  You may come across deer, elk, birds...and occasionally a seal. In the unfortunate event that someone is unable to avoid a collision with wildlife, the following steps are recommended:

• If you are on a State Highway, in a State Park, on the beaches, or if the animal is protected under Oregon Revised Statute (such as anything hunted or fished in Lincoln County), please contact the Oregon State Police at 541-265-5353 or dial 677 from a mobile phone.
   
• If you’re in the cities of Lincoln City, Newport, or Toledo; Contact the city police department: 
  • Lincoln City Police Department Dispatch (non-emergency) – 541-994-3636 
  • Newport Police Department Dispatch (non-emergency – 541-574-5807 
  • Toledo Police Department Dispatch (non-emergency) – 541-336-5555 
     
• If you’re in any other part of Lincoln County or if the animal involved is a pet or livestock; Contact the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office at 541-265-0777 

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