Road name: North Jetty Road

Location: Florence

Closure area: North Jetty Road is closed from Harbor Vista Road to the entrance of North Jetty Park

Dates and times: Full closure from Tuesday, May 26, to Friday, September 4

Reason for closure: Lane County is rebuilding the parking lots for North Jetty Park and the dive park along North Jetty Road

Alternative routes: None

###

UPDATE: 

Blackwell Fire UPDATE 5/26/26 8AM - Level 2 Zone JAC-229 Downgraded, Level 1 Zone JAC-231 Canceled

Due to firefighting efforts and cooperation from Mother Nature, the Level 2 Evacuation Zone JAC-229 is downgraded to Level 1: Be Ready. The Level 1 Evacuation Zone JAC-231 is canceled. 

Do you Know Your Zone? Visit Genasys Protect https://protect.genasys.com/ to find your zone

All road closures have been lifted. Residents who were initially evacuated by first responders may now return home unless they feel unsafe doing so. Please use caution as firefighters continue their work. 

For updates on firefighting efforts, follow Jackson County Fire District 3. 

Previous:

JCSO has issued a LEVEL 2 BE SET to evacuate for zone JAC-229 and a LEVEL 1: BE READY to evacuate for Zone JAC-231 both near the 8000 block of Blackwell Road in Central Point.

Evacuation Map: Genasys Protect

Level 2 - BE SET to evacuate means:

• There is significant danger in your area - be ready to leave at a moment’s notice.   
• Time to act - follow your emergency plan. Grab your go-kit of essential supplies for health, safety, and identification. For more info, visit ReadyJackson
• Stay informed and be alert. Continue to check for updates through local city and county websites, social media, TV, and radio.
• Relocate to a safe place outside of the affected area. Inform loved ones of your plans.
• If you need emergency shelter, call 211 or 1-866-698-6155, visit 211info.org, or text your zip code to 898211. TTY: dial 711 and call 1-866-698-6155. Language interpreters are available by phone. Text is available Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., in Spanish and English.

This may be the only notice you receive. Don’t wait to evacuate if you feel unsafe. Conditions can change rapidly. You do not need to wait for another evacuation notice. Make the best decision for your safety.

Do not call 911 unless experiencing an immediate life safety issue.

Nivel 2 - ESTÉ LISTO para evacuar de las siguientes zonas: JAC-229.

Nivel 2 - ESTÉ LISTO para evacuar significa:

• Hay peligro significativo en su zona -esté listo para partir en cualquier momento.  
• Tiempo de actuar - siga su plan de emergencia Agarre su kit de suministros escenciales para salud, seguridad e identificación. Para mayor información, visiteReadyJackson
• Mantengase informado y esté alerto. Continue consultando los sitios de web locales de la cuidad y del condado, medios sociales, televisión y radio para actualizaciones. 
• Reubíquese a un lugar seguro afuera del área afectada. Informe a sus seres queridos de sus planes.
• Si usted necesita un refugio de emergencia, llame al 211 o al 1-866-698-6155, visite 211info.org, o envié su código postal por texto al 898211. TTY: marque 711 y llame al 1-866-698-6155. Interpretes de idiomas están disponibles por teléfono. Mensajes por texto están disponibles Lunes - Viernes 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., en español e inglés.

Está puede ser la única notificación que reciba. Si usted se siente inseguro, no se espere para evacuar. Las condiciones pueden cambiar rapidamente No necesita esperar a otra notificación de evacuación. Tome la mejor decisión para su seguridad.

Level 1 - BE READY to evacuate means:

• Be aware of danger in your area and stay informed. Check local city and county websites, social media, TV, and radio for updates. 
• Make plans and prepare to evacuate. Gather necessary supplies for health, safety, and identification. For preparedness tips, visitReadyJackson
• Act early if you are older, have children, disabilities, or limited access to transportation. Consider moving pets and livestock early.
• If you can do so safely, check with your neighbors and share information. Ask for help if you need it. Offer help if you can give it.
• If you need emergency shelter, call 211 or 1-866-698-6155, visit 211info.org, or text your zip code to 898211. TTY: dial 711 and call 1-866-698-6155. Language interpreters are available by phone. Text is available Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., in Spanish and English.

This may be the only notice you receive. Don’t wait to evacuate if you feel unsafe. If conditions change, you may receive a Level 2 - BE SET or Level 3 - GO NOW evacuation notice. You do not need to wait for another evacuation notice. Make the best decision for your safety.


Nivel 1 - ESTÉ PREPARADO para evacuar significa:

• Esté consciente del peligro en su zona y manténgase informado. Consulte sitios de web locales de la cuidad y del condado, medios sociales, television y radio para actualizaciones. 
• Haga planes y prepárese para evacuar. Reúna suministros necesarios para salud, seguridad e identificación. Para mayor información, visite ReadyJackson
• Actúe temprano si es mayor de edad, tiene hijos, discapacidades, o acceso limitado a transportación. Considere mover mascotas y ganado temprano.
• Planifique posibles rutas de evacuación. Utilice TripCheck.com o llame al 511 para información de cierres de carretera.
• Si usted necesita un refugio de emergencia, llame al 211 o al 1-866-698-6155, visite 211info.org, o envié su código postal por texto al 898211. TTY: marque 711 y llame al 1-866-698-6155. Interpretes de idiomas están disponibles por teléfono. Mensajes por texto están disponibles Lunes - Viernes 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., en español e inglés. 
• Si puede hacerlo de manera segura, consulte con su vecinos y comparta información. Solicite ayuda si la necesita. Ofrezca ayuda si la puede dar.

Está puede ser la única notificación que reciba. Si usted se siente inseguro, no se espere para evacuar. Si las condiciones cambian, usted podrá recibir una notificación de evacuación Nivel 2 - ESTÉ LISTO o notificación de evacuación Nivel 3 - VAYASE AHORA. No necesita esperar a otra notificación de evacuación. Tome la mejor decisión para su seguridad.

SALEM, Ore. - Oregon National Guard service members participated in ceremonies across Oregon and Southwest Washington to honor individuals who died in defense of the nation on Memorial Day, May 25, 2026. As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, Memorial Day takes on heightened significance, as the country pauses each year to honor those who sacrificed their lives to secure the nation's pursuit of liberty and cherished freedoms.

During the nation’s 200th anniversary in 1976, President Gerald R. Ford’s speech at Arlington National Cemetery on May 31 paused to honor the service members whose sacrifices spanned the nation’s history, linking their courage to the anniversary celebrations.

“As we mark this milestone of our national independence, however, we must not forget the lessons of history. Other nations have risen to great heights only to weaken in their resolve. We must not repeat their error. We must remain strong in our defense and steadfast in our resolve to uphold the principles with which we began two centuries ago.”

Speaking at the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs Memorial Day celebration in Salem, Governor Tina Kotek highlighted that Memorial Day unites Americans in remembrance of the sacrifices made by service members.

"Memorial Day is not simply a tradition, it's a responsibility — a responsibility to remember the human cost of war, to honor those who never came home, and to ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten,” she said.

Following Governor Kotek's remarks, Oregon Army National Guard Col. Russell Gibson, Government and Legislative Affairs Director and Commander, 82nd Brigade Troop Command, represented the Oregon Military Department and the State’s military community. He emphasized that the sacrifices made by Oregon’s sons and daughters should always be remembered.

"The men and women we honor today are not just names on a wall or statistics in a history book — they were sons and daughters, husbands and wives, mothers and fathers," Russell said.  "Their stories are our stories, and it is our sacred duty to preserve their memory and ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten."

Meanwhile, at a Memorial Day event at FirLawn Cemetery in Hillsboro, Oregon, Army National Guard Command Sgt. Maj. Robert Bertilson highlighted that when Oregon Soldiers deploy, "The impact is felt here as the families sacrifice when their loved ones are far from home."

Culminating the day is one of the major Memorial Day events at Willamette National Cemetery. Oregon Army and Air National Guardsmen, along with Navy, Marine Corps, and other military members, served as Color Guard and performed military duties for the ceremony.  A patriotic flyover conducted by the Oregon Air National Guard at the cemetery was one of nearly a dozen flyovers in cities and towns across the region, where the F-15 Eagles from the 142nd Wing flew in support of Memorial Day events.

“We are standing on Hollow ground,” said Wendall Pelham, the Keynote speaker and a Gold Star Father. “Men and women have given their lives so that we could spend this beautiful day together, sharing their legacies. Americans who answered their nation’s call, not because it was easy, not because it was safe, but because they believed there were things greater than themselves worth defending.”  

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Released Images:

260525-Z-ZJ128-1001: Carla Buyes (left), Gold Star mother of Cpl. Adam J. Buyes, U.S. Marine Corps, and Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek stand with a memorial wreath at Oregon Capitol State Park in Salem, Oregon, on May 25, 2026, prior to the Oregon Statewide Memorial Day Ceremony hosted by the Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs. Cpl. Buyes, of Salem, Oregon, was assigned to the 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and died Nov. 26, 2011, in Helmand province, Afghanistan, while conducting combat operations during Operation Enduring Freedom. He was 21. (Oregon National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne)

260525-Z-ZJ128-1002-1005: Oregon National Guardsmen joined Oregon state and community leaders at Oregon Capitol State Park in Salem, Ore., May 25, 2026, for the Oregon Statewide Memorial Day Ceremony hosted by the Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs. The ceremony honored fallen service members through a posting of the colors by North Salem High School JROTC, a reading of "In Flanders Fields," a flyover, and keynote remarks from Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek. Chaplain Col. Jacob Scott, Oregon Army National Guard, delivered the invocation and benediction, and Col. Russell Gibson, commander of the 82nd Troop Command Brigade and government and legislative affairs director for the Oregon Military Department, delivered remarks on behalf of the Guard and the state's military community. The ceremony concluded with the laying of a wreath by Gov. Kotek, ODVA Director Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels, and Carla Buyes, a Gold Star mother. (Oregon National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne)

260525-Z-LM216-1001-1004: A Memorial Day ceremony was held at Fir Lawn Memorial Park & Funeral Home in Hillsboro, Ore., to honor and pay tribute to all U.S. service members who have made the ultimate sacrifice, May 25, 2026. Command Sgt. Maj. Robert Bertilson, Oregon Army National Guard, was the guest speaker during the ceremony. (Oregon National Guard photo by 1st Sgt. Zachary Holden)

260525-Z-CH590-1056: Military members of a Joint Service Honor Guard team post the Colors to begin the Memorial Day Observance held at Willamette National Cemetery, Portland, Oregon, on May 25, 2026. This year marked the 76th annual Memorial Day Observance at Willamette National Cemetery, one of three national cemeteries in Oregon (the others being Roseburg and Eagle Point). (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260525-Z-CH590-1261: Wendall Pelham, a Gold Star Father, delivers the keynote address during the Memorial Day Observance at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Oregon, on May 25, 2026. This year marked the 76th annual Memorial Day Observance at Willamette National Cemetery, one of three national cemeteries in Oregon (the others being Roseburg and Eagle Point). (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260525-Z-CH590-1594: Family, friends, visitors, and other mourners of the fallen move among the thousands of American flags displayed at the gravesites at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Oregon, following the Memorial Day Observances held on May 25, 2026. Memorial Day is dedicated to honoring all those who died in service to the United States during both peacetime and war. This year marked the 76th annual Memorial Day Observance at Willamette National Cemetery, one of three national cemeteries in Oregon (the others being Roseburg and Eagle Point). (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260525-Z-CH590-1379: Military members of a Joint Service Honor Guard team perform a rifle salute during the Memorial Day Observance held at Willamette National Cemetery, Portland, Oregon, on May 25, 2026. This year marked the 76th annual Memorial Day Observance at Willamette National Cemetery, one of three national cemeteries in Oregon (the others being Roseburg and Eagle Point). (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260525-Z-CH590-1402: Oregon Army National Guard Chaplain (Maj.) Wesley Moldogo delivers the Benediction at the conclusion of the Memorial Day Observance at Willamette National Cemetery, Portland, Oregon, on May 25, 2026. This year marked the 76th annual Memorial Day Observance at Willamette National Cemetery, one of three national cemeteries in Oregon (the others being Roseburg and Eagle Point). (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260525-Z-CH590-1329: Two Oregon Air National Guard F-15 Eagle jets assigned to the 142nd Wing at Portland Air National Guard Base conduct a patriotic flyover during the Memorial Day Observance at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Oregon, on May 25, 2026. This year marked the 76th annual Memorial Day Observance at Willamette National Cemetery, one of three national cemeteries in Oregon (the others being Roseburg and Eagle Point). (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

Media Contact: 503-934-3310  |  licinfo@oem.oregon.gov" rel="noopener" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(0, 42, 92);" target="_blank">OEM_Publicinfo@oem.oregon.gov

2026 Wildfire Awareness Month: Have a Plan, Build a Go-bag, Get Insured, Be Ready to Evacuate 

SALEM, Ore. -- Oregon is going to be a tinderbox this wildfire season. With counties across the state already declaring drought emergencies, we are heading into what will be one of the driest seasons in more than a decade. As a result, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is asking you to get ready now: 

1. Pack your go-bags 
2. Know your evacuation routes – have a plan 
3. Sign-up for emergency alerts 
4. Be prepared if cell service goes down 
5. Know the evacuation levels 
6. Make sure you have enough wildfire insurance – have a recovery plan 

Pack Your Go-bags 

A go-bag contains essential items you may need to take with you in a hurry. Each household member (human and animal) should have an easy-to-carry emergency bag:  

In an easy to pack tote: 

• Water: one gallon per person, per day (3-day supply for evacuation) 
• Food:non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items (3-day supply for evacuation) 

In individual backpacks: 

• Large bottle of water 
• Non-perishable snacks or meals ready to eat (MREs) 
• 7-day supply of medications (if possible) 
• A basic first aid kit
• Flashlight (hand-cranked or with extra batteries)  
• Back-up power cell (for charging your phone and electronics) 
• Extra charging cables 
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio(NOAA Weather Radio, if possible) 
• Extra clothing and personal items 
• Digital or printed copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies, etc.) 
• Multi-purpose tool 
• Sanitation and personal hygiene items 
• Printed copy of family and emergency contact information 
• If possible, extra cash 
• Emergency blanket
• Printed map(s) of the area (make sure everyone knows how to read them) 

Know Your Evacuation Routes – Have a Plan 

Create an evacuation plan and make sure everyone in the family knows what it is. Visit OEM’s Be2WeeksReady page to find tips on how to prepare for evacuation or shelter in place. OEM also offers a wildfire evacuation checklist at wildfire.oregon.gov/prepare. 

Your plan should include: 

• A list of emergency contacts (printed and in every go-bag) 
• A safe meeting place in case family members get separated 
• Multiple evacuation routes from home, work, or school. comcan help with this, but everyone should also know how to read a paper map and how to get to safety. 
• Transportation arrangements, including pets and livestock. 
• A discussion with loved ones, friends and neighbors to ensure everyone understands the plan. 

Individuals with disabilities should plan ahead for transportation, equipment and service animal needs. Visit the Red Cross for tailored resources. If you have special medical needs, make sheltering arrangements some place that can accommodate your needs, because not all standard shelters can. 

For pet and livestock evacuation planning, visit Ready.gov/pets. Prepare a pet emergency kit with essentials like food, water, medications, identification and medical records. Livestock owners should arrange transportation and shelter options in advance—resources are available at Oregon Department of Agriculture. 

Sign-up for Emergency Alerts   

Visit ORAlert.gov to sign-up to receive alerts based on your zip code. If you're already registered, take a moment to log in and update your contact information. Also, check your phone settings to ensure wireless emergency alerts are enabled. 

Know where to find local emergency information, such as your county’s emergency management website and TripCheck.com. Follow local emergency services on social media, including the sheriff’s office, fire agencies and city or county pages. 

Be Prepared If Cell Service Goes Down  

Have a back-up plan for how you will communicate if cell towers burn in your area. Developing a family PACE plan (Primary, Alternate, Contingency, Emergency) is key to staying connected during a disaster. Many cell providers offer a Starlink add-on for a nominal fee, which allows your cell phone to access the internet and make web-based phone calls and texts, or send Facebook and WhatsApp messages even if you can’t connect to a cell tower.   

An example of a PACE plan for individuals: 

• Primary: Cell Phones 
• Alternate: Starlink service on your cell phone. 
• Contingency: Satellite communicators, separate from the satellite function on your phone (which prioritizes first-responder traffic) 
• Emergency: Short-range communication radios for talking to family, and a hand-cranked NOAA weather radio to receive alerts. 

Know the Evacuation Levels in Oregon 

Oregon uses a three-level evacuation system to keep residents informed and safe. Be familiar with “Be Ready, Be Set, Go Now!” notifications: 

1. Level One – BE READY (Green): Stay aware of the wildfire threat and get prepared. Pack your go-kit, check emergency contacts, and ensure those in vulnerable situations (older adults, children, individuals with disabilities, and livestock owners) are ready to evacuate if needed. 
2. Level Two – BE SET (Yellow): Be prepared to leave at any moment. This indicates significant wildfire danger. Voluntary evacuation is encouraged—especially for those needing extra time to relocate safely. 
3. Level Three – GO NOW! (Red): Evacuate immediately! This means extreme danger is present, and it is unsafe to remain in place. Emergency responders may not be able to assist further. Leave immediately without gathering belongings and check TripCheck.com or call 511 for evacuation routes. 

After evacuating, do not return until officials declare it safe. You can find additional wildfire preparedness resources at wildfire.oregon.gov. 

Make Sure You’re Insured – Have a Recovery Plan 

Finally, whether you rent or own, now is the time to make sure you have wildfire insurance and enough coverage to replace your house. If the worst happens, you will need to rely on insurance, savings, loans and donations to replace what was lost. Have a plan for how you will recover. Your standard renter’s or homeowners' policy doesn’t cover floods, landslides or wildfires. Talk to your agent to make sure you have the right kind and amount of insurance. 

• Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety – Wildfire Ready
• Division of Financial Regulation – Wildfires Insurance Resources
• Filing a homeowners claim after a fire(English) 
• Filing a homeowners claim after a fire(Spanish) 
• Division of Financial Regulation – Wildfires Messaging Toolkit

Additional Wildfire Preparedness Resources 

• OEM's Wildfire Alert Graphics
• OEM's Evacuation Level Graphics
• How to Talk About Wildfires
• Prevent Wildfires
• Stay Safe While Driving During Smokey Conditions
• Vehicles can cause wildfires so make sure yours doesn't 

Type of Incident:   Structure Fire                                                                                            Date:                 5/24/26                                                                                                           Release Date:  5/24/26                                                                                                                        Contact:                  Battalion Chief’s Office                                                                         Phone:                 541-440-7623 (desk) 541-530-3605 (cell)                                                  E-Mail:          mhernandez@cdfr-or.gov   

At 08:11 am, Sunday, May 24th, Central Douglas Fire & Rescue crews were dispatched to a reported RV on fire on Cobb Street in Dillard.  Initial crews on scene found a fully involved camp trailer; fire also spread to a few nearby trees. Crews extended hose lines and extinguished and contained the fire to that location. Several other recreational vehicles nearby were saved and sustained no fire damage. Overhead power and communication lines were damaged by the fire.  No injuries were reported by the firefighters working the scene. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

CDF&R responded to this incident with 3 engines and one command unit.  Crews at the scene were assisted by DCSO, Avista Gas and PP&L.

Type of Incident:   Structure Fire                                                                                            Date:                 5/23/26                                                                                                           Release Date:  5/24/26                                                                                                                        Contact:                  Battalion Chief’s Office                                                                         Phone:                 541-440-7623 (desk) 541-530-3605 (cell)                                                  E-Mail:          mhernandez@cdfr-or.gov   

At 11:53 am, Saturday, May 23rd, Central Douglas Fire & Rescue crews were dispatched to a reported fire on the second-story balcony of an apartment complex in the 200 Block of Gregory Drive in Winston. The apartment's occupant heard his unit's smoke alarms going off and smelled smoke. The apartment complex residents used several fire extinguishers to control the fire.  Initial crews on scene found a light smoke coming from the second-story balcony. Crews extended one hose line and extinguished the remaining hot spots. The fire was contained to the exterior of the structure on the balcony.  No injuries were reported by the firefighters working the scene.

CDF&R responded to this incident with four engines and one command unit.  Crews at the scene were assisted by Avista Gas and PP&L.

The Friday on May 22nd was extra busy for Sweet Home Fire and Ambulance District as they ran 15 calls for emergency service in a 14 hour period on one shift. The afternoon was interupted by a structure fire on Airport Road at 4:33 PM. Crews arrived to find a barn in a field with the roof on fire and residents attempting to spray water onto the roof with a hose. The primary residence was approximately 100 feet away and in the path of a stiff downwind of the burning barn. The first arriving unit was a command brush rig and used its onboard water to keep the flames at bay as an engine took the last water hydrant on Airport Road and layed in with a full crew to knock down the fire. Working both interior and exterior operations simultaneously, the engine company was able to extinguish the fire quickly and save as much of the contents of the barn as possible while preventing fire spread to the surrounding area. The 100 year old barn was in good condition and the majority of the damage was contained to the roof with minor damage to the interior as the roof had begun to fall in. The fire most likely started from a cast ember from a burn pile upwind approximately 75 feet away. The afternoon winds had picked up and the roof construction was cedar shake with years of moss growth that had dried with the past week of warm weather and steady winds. The Sweet Home Police Department assisted with traffic control during the operation, as the hydrant supply line was across Airport Road at the bottom of 50th Ave. In anticipation of the Memorial Day Weekend, Sweet Home Fire had upstaffed by adding a brush engine crew to the daily roster. This asset, as well as the luck of having no other calls at the time, added to the success of a quick response and extinguishment for crews. Only hours later Sweet Home had all ambulances on calls for service, a brush engine enroute to a fire in Cascadia, and an Albany medic unit responding to another call in our district as Lebanon Fire was also out of units running multiple calls. As this weekend gets in to full swing, we would like to ask the community to please be extra careful and pay close attention to any burning materials as crews may be stretched thin and are doing all that we can to be available to respond to all emergencies. Sweet Home Fire would like to thank the Sweet Home Police Department and Albany Fire for their response and assistance during this eventful shift.

FIRE POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Fire Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Madison Mancuso at (971) 433-7899 or madison.mancuso@dpsst.oregon.gov.

The meeting will be livestreamed on the DPSST YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approval of Minutes of February 25, 2026 Minutes

3. Discretionary Case Review Quick Sheet
    Presented by Brooke Bell-Uribe

4. Gail F. Freer; DPSST No. 28436

Presented by Chantel Goettsch

5. Jakob K. Brandt; DPSST No. 40180

Presented by Chantel Goettsch

6. Logan M. Wigham; DPSST No. 38345

Presented by Chantel Goettsch

7. Fire Certification Review Task Force - Update

Presented by Brooke Bell-Uribe

8. Agency Updates

9. Next Fire Policy Committee Meeting - August 26, 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 Police Policy 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.

GRANT COUNTY, Ore. (22 May 2026) – The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is seeking information regarding the killing of a collared wolf in Grant County.

On the morning of May 18, 2026, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife contacted Fish and Wildlife troopers regarding a mortality signal from a collared wolf from the Desolation Pack. ODFW and OSP responded to the scene and located the deceased male wolf which died from an apparent gunshot wound. The location of the deceased wolf was on public land adjacent to USFS Road 10, at Desolation Meadow. This location is approximately 3.25 miles northwest of Olive Lake. 

The preliminary investigation indicated the wolf was likely shot from the roadway sometime during the late evening of May 14, 2026, through the early morning hours of May 15, 2026.

Anyone with information is asked to contact OSP Fish and Wildlife through the Turn In Poachers (TIP) hotline at 1-800-452-7888 or by calling OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP26-160166. TIP reports may be anonymous.

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. — The Emergency Fire Cost Committee (EFCC) will meet at 10 a.m. on June 2 in the Tillamook Room, Building C, Oregon Department of Forestry at 2600 State Street in Salem. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Financial status of the Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund (OFLPF)
• Weather update
• Executive report
• Administrative Branch report
• Status of large fire cost collection efforts
• Mitigation planning and implementation
• Status reports on EFCC work groups
• Protection Division report
• Administrator report

The meeting is open to the public to attend in-person or virtually via Teams. Public comments will be accepted near the end of the meeting. Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-881-8292 or by email at na.m.hobbs@odf.oregon.gov">lorna.m.hobbs@odf.oregon.gov.

The Emergency Fire Cost Committee (EFCC) oversees the Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund (OFLPF), established by the Oregon Legislature as a fund with the purpose of providing funds for fiscal year budgets of forest protection districts, investments in supplemental fire prevention, detection or suppression resources that enhance fire protection in the state and issuing loans to the Oregon Department of Forestry or forest protection associations that relate to wildfire costs. View more information on the EFCC webpage.

Roseburg, OR —May 22, 2026 —

A Douglas County H.O.P.E. Drug Court graduate phase participant is proud to announce Empowering Employment, a community initiative designed to help individuals overcome barriers to employment by providing professional clothing, job-readiness training, and direct connections to local employers.

Employment plays a critical role in long-term recovery, offering stability, purpose, and opportunities for personal growth. For many individuals rebuilding their lives, securing meaningful employment can be one of the most significant and challenging steps toward success.

"I cannot overstate the importance gainful employment has in one's recovery," said Tracy Fatkin, a H.O.P.E. Drug Court graduate phase participant. "The benefits are limitless—not only to one's own sense of pride, financial stability, and accomplishment—but also to the community as a whole. Having to face barriers to employment is a very difficult thing to overcome when you're starting over and trying to fix the mistakes you've made."

As part of the project, community members are encouraged to donate new or gently used interview-appropriate clothing and shoes. Donations will be distributed throughout the local community through redeemable vouchers at the Roseburg Dream Center located at 2555 NE Diamond Lake Boulevard in Roseburg.

Clothing donations will be accepted through June 1 at the following locations:

• Adapt Integrated Healthcare – 621 W. Madrone Street, Roseburg
• Painted Horse Recovery – 1941 NE Stephens Street, Roseburg
• Prints Charming – 419 SE Main Street, Roseburg

In addition, a Resume Writing and Interview Workshop will be held on May 29 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at WorkSource Oregon, located at 846 SE Pine Street, Roseburg. Participants will have the opportunity to strengthen their resumes, practice interviewing skills through mock interviews, and receive individualized assistance designed to improve their chances of obtaining employment. The workshop is open to anyone seeking additional support in their job search.

The Empowering Employment initiative will conclude with a Community Job Fair on June 5 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Painted Horse Recovery, 1941 NE Stephens Street. The event will connect job seekers facing barriers to employment with local employers, workforce resources, and community organizations dedicated to supporting successful reentry and recovery.  For businesses interested in participating, go to the Eventbrite website at empoweringemploymentdchope.eventbrite.com to register.

H.O.P.E. Drug Court organizers invite local businesses, community partners, and residents to join in supporting the Empowering Employment project by donating professional attire, participating in the job fair, or helping spread awareness about these valuable resources. 

"Employment is one of the strongest predictors of long-term success in recovery and reduced recidivism,” stated Koree Tate, LPSCC Coordinator and Drug Court Team Member, “When individuals have the opportunity to earn a living wage, support their families, and contribute to their community, they gain more than a paycheck—they gain purpose, stability, and hope. The Empowering Employment Project helps remove barriers and creates pathways for people to move forward with confidence and dignity."

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

Due to higher turnout at Lane County drop boxes and the post office on Election Day (currently at 44.26%), Lane County Elections will be counting ballots and providing updated election results today, May 22, by 5pm.

The Notice of Election Results Posting Schedule on the Lane County Elections website has been updated.

Note that election results are unofficial until the election is certified, which is expected to take place by June 15. 

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Lake Oswego, Oregon, man has been charged with sexually exploiting minor victims online and in person across multiple states and distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

Alex Miller Eldridge, 36, has been charged by criminal complaint with sexual exploitation of children and possession and distribution of child pornography.

According to court documents, since May 2025, Eldridge used multiple online accounts to sexually exploit minors in multiple U.S. states and at least one foreign country. In December 2024, Eldridge flew from Hawaii to Pennsylvania to sexually abuse a minor victim he met on the Discord application. Eldridge recorded his sexual abuse of the minor victim and later sent those videos to multiple other minor victims.

Eldridge used the Discord and Session applications to engage in sexually themed chats with additional minor victims in 2025 and 2026. He directed one minor victim in Colorado and another in Greece to send him videos of themselves engaging in sexually explicit conduct, which he then threatened to distribute online. Discord also reported him for distributing multiple files of CSAM in November 2025.

Investigators executed a search warrant at Elridge’s home on May 20 and located additional evidence of sexual exploitation of minors and CSAM activity. Evidence found on Eldridge’s cell phone showed that he distributed CSAM on Discord the day before his arrest.

Eldridge made his first appearance in federal court yesterday before a U.S. magistrate judge, who detained Eldridge pending further court proceedings.

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

Homeland Security Investigations is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mira Chernick is prosecuting the case.

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

Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children is encouraged to contact HSI at (866) 347-2423 or submit a tip online at report.cybertip.org.

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.

# # #

Award includes school donations to support local classrooms

PORTLAND, Ore. — OnPoint Community Credit Union has announced the four winners of the 2026 OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education Educator of the Year awards, who will each have their mortgage or rent paid for a year:

• K-5 Educator of the Year: Ashley Reich, 4th-grade teacher at Holt Elementary School in Eugene, Ore.
• 6-8 Educator of the Year: Mikael Benson, 6th-8th grade Math and Gardening teacher at Harrison Park Middle School in Portland, Ore.
• 9-12 Educator of the Year: Stephanie Fitzgerald, 9th-12th grade Mathematics, Leadership and Education 101 teacher at Colton High School in Colton, Ore.
• Gold Star Educator of the Year: Kali Dalton, Counselor at Coweeman Middle School in Kelso, Wash.

OnPoint will pay the mortgage or rent for a year for each of the four Educators of the Year. They will also each receive $2,500 for their schools. The four runners-up will receive $5,000 each and $1,500 for their schools.

“Great educators do much more than teach lessons. They encourage students to believe in themselves and create meaningful connections that last far beyond the classroom,” said Rob Stuart, president and chief executive officer, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “This year’s honorees demonstrate extraordinary dedication, compassion and leadership, and we are proud to celebrate the lasting impact they have on their students, schools and communities.”

The OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education has awarded more than $1 million in prizes to more than 350 local educators and schools since 2010. The 2026 campaign will award an additional $193,000 to deserving K-12 educators and schools.

2026 Educators of the Year

The four winners of the 2026 OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education Educator of the Year awards are:

K-5 Educator of the Year – Ashley Reich

4th grade, Holt Elementary School, Eugene, Ore.

Reich’s teaching philosophy is rooted in her belief that students learn best when they feel safe, valued and are genuinely excited to be in the classroom. Her 20-year teaching career has included high-needs schools, so she knows each child comes to her with different challenges and experiences. Reich ensures every one of them knows they belong and are accepted by building strong relationships with every student. She is known for celebrating each of their individual cultures, backgrounds and identities.

Reich established the Holt Student Council for 4^th and 5^th-graders, giving students meaningful opportunities to lead and use their voices. And she works with other Holt teachers, counselors and administrators every year to identify students who need winter coats. To date, that effort has delivered nearly 1,000 coats to students in need.

6-8 Educator of the Year – Mikael Benson

6^th-8^th grade Math and Gardening, Harrison Park Middle School, Portland, Ore.

Benson may be best known by his students for his intentionally quirky style. Think shorts with black socks, a math-inspired Hawaiian shirt and a dozen pens dangling from a lanyard. He leans into humor, knowing the laughter and energy it sparks help set a welcoming tone in his classroom. Benson believes that when students feel at ease, they’re more willing to take risks, challenge ideas, make mistakes and learn from them.

While his approach is playful, Benson’s commitment to his students is anything but. He works deliberately to ensure every student feels included and supported. Benson also revitalized the school’s outdoor learning garden, transforming it into a hands-on space where students explore soil science, teamwork, recycling and environmental care. In 2025, he organized a plant sale that raised more than $6,000, the highest amount the school has ever generated in a single year.

9-12 Educator of the Year – Stephanie Fitzgerald

9^th-12^th grade Mathematics, Leadership and Education 101, Colton High School, Colton, Ore.

In Fitzgerald’s classroom, mathematics isn’t taught as a set of procedures. It’s a way of thinking. She emphasizes problem-solving, perseverance and real-world application, helping students see math as something to actively engage with rather than simply complete. Fitzgerald’s students apply what they learn through hands-on experiences, such as making necklaces or simulating the car-buying process, giving them a deeper understanding of math’s relevance beyond the classroom.

She collaborated with another teacher to design an “Education 101” class for Colton students interested in teaching. In 2023, Fitzgerald chose to pursue a second master’s degree to expand dual-credit math opportunities for students. Since then, she has assumed responsibility for nearly every math course offered at the school while also serving as the leadership teacher, drama coach, junior class advisor and a mentor for new teachers.

Gold Star Educator of the Year – Kali Dalton

Counselor, Coweeman Middle School, Kelso, Wash.

Dalton knew she wanted to be an educator from an early age and gave a lot of thought to how she could have the greatest impact as an adult in a school environment. Today, she strives to ensure school is a safe and welcoming space for students, where they feel comfortable sharing their concerns with her and confident exploring what they want to do in life. Dalton says her role as a school counselor is to be that present, consistent adult, filled with compassion.

When Dalton saw a lack of social and emotional learning curriculum at her school, she spoke up and helped develop a scope and lessons now available to all students. She also led a team that created her school’s “Menu of Services,” started “Coffee with the Counselor” for parents and was a key leader in starting a mentorship program at her school.

2026 Educator of the Year Runners-up

OnPoint will also award a $5,000 cash prize to each of the following 2026 runners-up and make a $1,500 donation to their schools for resources and supplies.

K-5 Educator of the Year Runner-up – Sam Wishart

1st Grade, City View Charter School, Hillsboro, Ore.

6-8 Educator of the Year Runner-up – Kristine Napper

6-8^th Grade Social Studies, Whitford Middle School, Beaverton, Ore.

9-12 Educator of the Year Runner-up – Heidi Friesen

9-12^th Grade Chemistry and Physics, Bend Senior High, Bend, Ore.

Gold Star Educator of the Year Runner-up – Yaneira Romero

Social Worker, James John Elementary, Portland, Ore.

Five Schools Receive Community Builder Awards

The 2026 OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education also awarded one Oregon school $5,000 and four Oregon and southwest Washington schools $2,000 in Community Builder grants for special projects that enrich their communities:

Grand Prize Winner – $5,000 Community Builder Award

• Cedar Ridge Middle School: Kiln for Kids (Oregon Trail School District, Sandy, Ore.)

$2,000 Community Builder Award Winners

• Carus Elementary: Community Garden Space (Canby School District, Oregon City, Ore.)
• Mapleton School District: Community Makerspace Initiative (Mapleton, Ore.)
• Rex Putnam High School: Indoor Percussion Drum Replacement (North Clackamas School District, Milwaukie, Ore.)
• Woodland High School: Postsecondary Exploration Field Trips (Woodland Public Schools, Woodland, Wash.)

Click here to read more about this year's Community Builder winners, which OnPoint announced on May 6, 2026.

Honoring Founders' Legacy of Excellence in Education

Founded by 16 schoolteachers in 1932, OnPoint continues to honor its legacy today by improving access to quality education for everyone. Click here to learn more.

###

About OnPoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in Oregon, serving more than 648,000 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.

Award includes school donations to support local classrooms

PORTLAND, Ore. — OnPoint Community Credit Union has announced the four winners of the 2026 OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education Educator of the Year awards, who will each have their mortgage or rent paid for a year:

• K-5 Educator of the Year: Ashley Reich, 4th-grade teacher at Holt Elementary School in Eugene, Ore.
• 6-8 Educator of the Year: Mikael Benson, 6th-8th grade Math and Gardening teacher at Harrison Park Middle School in Portland, Ore.
• 9-12 Educator of the Year: Stephanie Fitzgerald, 9th-12th grade Mathematics, Leadership and Education 101 teacher at Colton High School in Colton, Ore.
• Gold Star Educator of the Year: Kali Dalton, Counselor at Coweeman Middle School in Kelso, Wash.

OnPoint will pay the mortgage or rent for a year for each of the four Educators of the Year. They will also each receive $2,500 for their schools. The four runners-up will receive $5,000 each and $1,500 for their schools.

“Great educators do much more than teach lessons. They encourage students to believe in themselves and create meaningful connections that last far beyond the classroom,” said Rob Stuart, president and chief executive officer, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “This year’s honorees demonstrate extraordinary dedication, compassion and leadership, and we are proud to celebrate the lasting impact they have on their students, schools and communities.”

The OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education has awarded more than $1 million in prizes to more than 350 local educators and schools since 2010. The 2026 campaign will award an additional $193,000 to deserving K-12 educators and schools.

2026 Educators of the Year

The four winners of the 2026 OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education Educator of the Year awards are:

K-5 Educator of the Year – Ashley Reich

4th grade, Holt Elementary School, Eugene, Ore.

Reich’s teaching philosophy is rooted in her belief that students learn best when they feel safe, valued and are genuinely excited to be in the classroom. Her 20-year teaching career has included high-needs schools, so she knows each child comes to her with different challenges and experiences. Reich ensures every one of them knows they belong and are accepted by building strong relationships with every student. She is known for celebrating each of their individual cultures, backgrounds and identities.

Reich established the Holt Student Council for 4^th and 5^th-graders, giving students meaningful opportunities to lead and use their voices. And she works with other Holt teachers, counselors and administrators every year to identify students who need winter coats. To date, that effort has delivered nearly 1,000 coats to students in need.

6-8 Educator of the Year – Mikael Benson

6^th-8^th grade Math and Gardening, Harrison Park Middle School, Portland, Ore.

Benson may be best known by his students for his intentionally quirky style. Think shorts with black socks, a math-inspired Hawaiian shirt and a dozen pens dangling from a lanyard. He leans into humor, knowing the laughter and energy it sparks help set a welcoming tone in his classroom. Benson believes that when students feel at ease, they’re more willing to take risks, challenge ideas, make mistakes and learn from them.

While his approach is playful, Benson’s commitment to his students is anything but. He works deliberately to ensure every student feels included and supported. Benson also revitalized the school’s outdoor learning garden, transforming it into a hands-on space where students explore soil science, teamwork, recycling and environmental care. In 2025, he organized a plant sale that raised more than $6,000, the highest amount the school has ever generated in a single year.

9-12 Educator of the Year – Stephanie Fitzgerald

9^th-12^th grade Mathematics, Leadership and Education 101, Colton High School, Colton, Ore.

In Fitzgerald’s classroom, mathematics isn’t taught as a set of procedures. It’s a way of thinking. She emphasizes problem-solving, perseverance and real-world application, helping students see math as something to actively engage with rather than simply complete. Fitzgerald’s students apply what they learn through hands-on experiences, such as making necklaces or simulating the car-buying process, giving them a deeper understanding of math’s relevance beyond the classroom.

She collaborated with another teacher to design an “Education 101” class for Colton students interested in teaching. In 2023, Fitzgerald chose to pursue a second master’s degree to expand dual-credit math opportunities for students. Since then, she has assumed responsibility for nearly every math course offered at the school while also serving as the leadership teacher, drama coach, junior class advisor and a mentor for new teachers.

Gold Star Educator of the Year – Kali Dalton

Counselor, Coweeman Middle School, Kelso, Wash.

Dalton knew she wanted to be an educator from an early age and gave a lot of thought to how she could have the greatest impact as an adult in a school environment. Today, she strives to ensure school is a safe and welcoming space for students, where they feel comfortable sharing their concerns with her and confident exploring what they want to do in life. Dalton says her role as a school counselor is to be that present, consistent adult, filled with compassion.

When Dalton saw a lack of social and emotional learning curriculum at her school, she spoke up and helped develop a scope and lessons now available to all students. She also led a team that created her school’s “Menu of Services,” started “Coffee with the Counselor” for parents and was a key leader in starting a mentorship program at her school.

2026 Educator of the Year Runners-up

OnPoint will also award a $5,000 cash prize to each of the following 2026 runners-up and make a $1,500 donation to their schools for resources and supplies.

K-5 Educator of the Year Runner-up – Sam Wishart

1st Grade, City View Charter School, Hillsboro, Ore.

6-8 Educator of the Year Runner-up – Kristine Napper

6-8^th Grade Social Studies, Whitford Middle School, Beaverton, Ore.

9-12 Educator of the Year Runner-up – Heidi Friesen

9-12^th Grade Chemistry and Physics, Bend Senior High, Bend, Ore.

Gold Star Educator of the Year Runner-up – Yaneira Romero

Social Worker, James John Elementary, Portland, Ore.

Five Schools Receive Community Builder Awards

The 2026 OnPoint Prize for Excellence in Education also awarded one Oregon school $5,000 and four Oregon and southwest Washington schools $2,000 in Community Builder grants for special projects that enrich their communities:

Grand Prize Winner – $5,000 Community Builder Award

• Cedar Ridge Middle School: Kiln for Kids (Oregon Trail School District, Sandy, Ore.)

$2,000 Community Builder Award Winners

• Carus Elementary: Community Garden Space (Canby School District, Oregon City, Ore.)
• Mapleton School District: Community Makerspace Initiative (Mapleton, Ore.)
• Rex Putnam High School: Indoor Percussion Drum Replacement (North Clackamas School District, Milwaukie, Ore.)
• Woodland High School: Postsecondary Exploration Field Trips (Woodland Public Schools, Woodland, Wash.)

Click here to read more about this year's Community Builder winners, which OnPoint announced on May 6, 2026.

Honoring Founders' Legacy of Excellence in Education

Founded by 16 schoolteachers in 1932, OnPoint continues to honor its legacy today by improving access to quality education for everyone. Click here to learn more.

###

About OnPoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in Oregon, serving more than 648,000 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.

Salem, Oregon – Twenty-six Oregon artists will access meaningful career development opportunities through the second round of 2026 Career Opportunity Program grants from the Oregon Arts Commission and The Ford Family Foundation.
 

Over $91,000 was awarded, including $46,665 from the Oregon Arts Commission for all artistic disciplines and $44,338 in supplemental funding for 12 established Oregon visual artists, visual arts writers and curators of visual arts through a partnership with The Ford Family Foundation’s Visual Arts Program. Grant funding received ranges from $1,041 to $7,000.
 

Career Opportunity grants support individual Oregon artists by enabling them to take advantage of timely opportunities that enhance their artistic careers. Most grants support the artists’ participation in residencies, exhibitions or performance opportunities.
 

"The creativity of Oregon artists and makers is so inspiring,” said Commission Vice Chair Jenny Stadler, who served as a panel chair. “I always look forward to learning more about the wonderful opportunities they are invited to participate in around the country and world."
 

“Artists are anchors of Oregon towns and cities,” said Kara Carlisle, president and CEO of The Ford Family Foundation. “By investing in artists’ research, training, dedicated work time and new exhibition opportunities, we’re not just amplifying their careers, we’re reinforcing the cultural fabric of our communities. We’re proud to join the Oregon Arts Commission in this shared commitment to impact.”

FY2026 Career Opportunity Program round two grant award recipients are:

Christian Burchard, Ashland

Oregon Arts Commission $1,664

To support the transportation of Burchard’s sculpture “Never Again II” from Ashland to the Wharton Esherick Museum in Paoli, Pennsylvania, for the exhibition “Breaking Ground.”

David Buckley Borden, Eugene

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $5,000

To support the creation of an immersive art installation about forest ecology for the upcoming exhibition “Lookout Landscape” at the World Forestry Center in Portland, opening in fall 2026.

Adrian Chavez, Medford

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $5,000

To support the creation of a new mural in downtown Phoenix, Oregon, celebrating local people, wildlife, and culture.

Srijon Chowdhury, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $5,000

To support the production and presentation of a new large-scale installation and paintings for Chowdhury’s upcoming exhibition at Converge 45 in Portland.

Teah Cory, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support the development of industry-level skills in stop-motion animation through an online intensive with Aardman, the studio behind “Wallace and Gromit.”

William Cravis, Sisters

The Ford Family Foundation $4,000

To support a 13-week residency at the European Ceramic Work Center in Oisterwijk, Netherlands.

Joel Fisher, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $5,000

To support the production of “Framework,” a solo exhibition in Los Angeles, including preparatory costs for printing, mounting, framing, and shipping.

Kristina Foley, McMinnville

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $4,000

To support Foley’s participation in the 2026 XTANT Leadership Program and Textile Marketplace, a community gathering to celebrate the art of craft in Palma de Mallorca, Spain.

Heather Goodwind, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $1,655

To support a solo exhibition in Seattle, Washington, at LIC Gallery and participation in the Seattle Art Fair.

Marisa Grattan, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support Portland-based post-production finishing, color grading and delivery for Grattan’s approximately 20-minute documentary short film "ho‘oka‘awale / 疏离 (shūlí)."

Garrick Imatani, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $4,050

To support the creation of work for both a group exhibition at the Institute of Contemporary Art at Maine College of Art in Portland, Maine, as well as a monthlong artist residency in Mexico City that concludes with an exhibition.

Emilie Kelly, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $1,041

To support Kelly’s endeavors as a writer, illustrator and comics creator at the Alaska Robotics Comics Camp.

Charlie Kralin, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support the purchase of equipment and software to complete an experimental stop-motion film for a solo exhibition at the Pacific Northwest College of Art’s Cauduro Gallery in Portland.

Shawna Lipton, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support the completion of a nonfiction manuscript of literary criticism at the Literary Journalism Residency at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity.

Alexandra Lewis, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support the wider release of Lewis’s documentary “IROKO: Sacred Roots” through film festivals and in-person presentations.

Karina Lomelin Ripper, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support Mexican-American writer and director Ripper in attending the Latino Film Institute Inclusion Fellowship workshop: LALIFF Connect in Los Angeles.

William Morrow, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $2,500

To support travel and on-the-ground expenses to participate in the International Association of Curators of Contemporary Art Congress in Turin and Milan, Italy.

Andrew Myers, Albany

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support an artist residency at Centrum in Port Townsend, Washington, as well as a solo exhibition at Linfield University.

Celeste Noche, Portland

The Ford Family Foundation $4,000

To support travel and production costs during the Interlude Artist Residency in Livingston, New York– the first major residency dedicated exclusively to supporting artists with families.

Brian Parham, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $1,960

To support a series of live “RISE: The Legacy of Black Guitar Heroes in Rock & Metal” performances.

Aejoo Park, Beaverton

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support Naomi Dixon's opportunity to coach and perform with Ooh La La, a BIPOC and queer all-women improv team, at the London Improv Festival in London, England, May 21-24, 2026.

Sara Parker, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support the premiere of “The House of the Heart,” a full evening-length interdisciplinary dance work at A-WOL Dance Collective, marking the culmination of a three-year research arc.

Ido Radon, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $2,000

To support the production and presentation of a major installation in the 2026 Converge 45 triennial at the Center for Contemporary Art and Culture at the Pacific Northwest College of Art.

Aubrey Sloan, Willamina

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support “A Year and a Day,” a solo exhibition at Stark Street Studios and Gallery in Portland centering American working-class mothers through new ceramic works, invited collaborators, and public dialogue.

Mike Vos, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

The Ford Family Foundation $2,133

To support Vos’s first solo exhibition at Laura Vincent Design & Gallery in Portland of photographs and audio pieces made throughout Iceland.

Amber Whitehall, Portland

Oregon Arts Commission $2,000

To support Whitehall's refinement of the historic dance work “Trio A” by Yvonne Rainer.

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 artscommission.oregon.gov and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

All passes will be approximately 1,000 feet above ground level and about 400 mph airspeed. Flights could be canceled or times changed due to inclement weather or operational contingencies.

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Aerial b-roll: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/752272/142nd-wing-f-15-flight-gopro-footage

About the 142nd Wing:

The Portland Air National Guard Base employs 1400 Airmen who provide an economic impact of nearly $500 million to the region. The 142nd Wing defends our homeland with F-15 Eagle fighter jets, guarding the Pacific Northwest skies from northern California to the Canadian border through their Aerospace Control Alert mission as part of Air Combat Command and the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD). Their mission is to provide unequalled, mission-ready units to sustain combat aerospace superiority and peacetime tasking any time, any place in service to our nation, state and community.

For more information, contact 142nd Wing Public Affairs at 503-335-4347.

Photo caption:

An F-15EX from the 142nd Wing performs a fly-by at the Oregon International Air Show in Hillsboro, Ore. May 17, 2026. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Airman Casey Burruel)

SALEM, Ore. — The Certified Burn Manager Advisory Committee will meet virtually at 1 p.m. on Monday, June 1. To join, please use the Zoom video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Welcome, introductions, new members
• Updated charter review and chair election
• CBM website - Directory
• Public comment
• Training deliveries - Updates and feedback
• Briefing on certified CBMs and trainees
• CBM for cultural burning
• CBM rule revision suggestions
• Updates
  • National CPBM Forum
  • Liability Pilot Program
  • ODF Prescribed Fire Manual

The meeting is open to the public to attend virtually. There will be a period for public comment. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting by contacting y.berry@odf.oregon.gov">Shelby Berry at 503-949-5181.

View more information on the CBMAC webpage.

Oregon's 2021 Legislature passed Senate Bill 762 requiring the Oregon Department of Forestry to establish a Certified Burn Manager Program. It is the duty of the Certified Burn Manager Advisory Committee to advise the Oregon Department of Forestry on the program.

Salem, OR – May 22, 2026 – The Marion County District Attorney’s Office announced today that trial attorneys secured convictions in multiple separate cases this week, reflecting the office’s continued commitment to holding offenders accountable.

25CR35970 – Nicholas Ransom was convicted by a Marion County Jury of multiple offenses, including First-Degree Burglary Constituting Domestic Violence with a Firearm, two counts of Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Fourth-Degree Assault Constituting Domestic Violence, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Fleeing or Attempting to Elude Police, Reckless Driving, and Attempted Second‑Degree Animal Abuse. The conviction stems from a June 29, 2025, incident in which deputies responded to a domestic violence call involving Ransom and Michelle Perez at her Salem residence. Perez reported that Ransom, her ex‑boyfriend, entered her home uninvited, yelled at her and her friend James Esplin, brandished a firearm, assaulted her, threatened to kill both of them, and kicked her dog before fleeing. Deputies later pursued Ransom at speeds exceeding 100 mph until he was arrested on Howell Prairie Road, where a .40‑caliber pistol was recovered. At the time, Ransom was a convicted felon on post‑prison supervision for homicide and had a prior assault conviction involving Perez. His sentencing is scheduled for June 11, 2026.

25CR30879 – A Marion County Jury issued a guilty verdict after a one-day trial, finding Kenneth Raymond guilty of assault in the fourth degree. The incident occurred on April 15, 2025. Deputies responded to the Safeway on Lancaster Dr. NE after Raymond punched Jason Burns in the face approximately four times. The pair, who had attended the same high school, were familiar with one another. The argument stemmed from a dispute over a pool stick. Raymond told the responding Deputy he had tried to “knock-out” Burns but he missed the final punch. Marion County Circuit Court Judge Manuel Perez issued a sentence of 18 months of bench probation.

13C42284 – Paul Rodriguez-Garcia was found guilty by a Marion County Jury of a Felony Driving While Under the Influence of Intoxicants, and he pled guilty to Driving with a Suspended License and Giving False Information to a Police Officer. He had two prior DUII offenses. In March 2013, an officer observed the defendant swerving and weaving into a bike lane. Upon stopping the vehicle, the officer noted that the defendant’s eyes were bloodshot and glassy, and he could smell alcohol in the car. The defendant was unable to provide registration or a driver’s license and gave a false name and date of birth. Several cues of impairment were recorded, and the defendant refused a breathalyzer test. He will be sentenced on May 22, 2026.

“Every day, I’m proud of the work our attorneys and legal staff do for this community,” said Chief Deputy District Attorney Brendan Murphy. “It’s an overwhelming volume, tireless, and vital to public safety in our community.”

The Marion County District Attorney’s Office reviews over 10,000 cases annually and employs approximately 32 lawyers.

CORVALLIS, Ore. – On May 19, 2026, at approximately 2:09 p.m., deputies with the Benton County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a body found in the Willamette River near river mile 159, north of Harrisburg.

A kayaker discovered the body along the west bank of the river and contacted authorities. Deputies responded by Marine Patrol boat after launching from McCartney Park.

The deceased was identified as Wade Felton Lloyd, 62, of Junction City. Lloyd had previously been reported missing to the Junction City Police Department on November 20, 2025.

Investigators identified Lloyd through tattoos. The exact cause and manner of death remain under investigation.

Deputies notified the next of kin.

Out of respect for the family and the integrity of the investigation, additional details are not being released at this time.

Anyone with information related to Lloyd’s death is asked to contact Detective Ware with the Junction City Police Department at 541-998-1245 and reference case number 202506989.
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The following is a Memorial Day message by Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels, Director, Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

Memorial Day is among the most solemn days on our national calendar and in the hearts of millions of veterans and military families, this day is also personal.

It is not simply the beginning of summer or a long weekend. It is a national day earmarked for remembrance and a day for us — as a community, as Oregonians, and as Americans — to pause together and reflect on the extraordinary cost of the freedoms we enjoy every day.

Across generations, millions of men and women have answered the call to serve.

Too many never returned home.

Today, we remember and honor every life given in service to this nation.

Memorial Day grew out of the pain and loss of the Civil War — a conflict that deeply scarred our young nation and forever changed countless families.

In the years that followed, families and communities continued to gather in cemeteries to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers, ribbons, and flags. They came not as part of a national holiday, but as grieving parents, spouses, children, friends, and community determined to ensure those who died for this nation would never be forgotten.

Those humble acts of remembrance became what was first known as Decoration Day - the foundation of what we now observe as Memorial Day.

And nearly 160 years later, we continue that same tradition of honoring and remembering.

We gather to remember those who gave their lives in service to this nation and to honor not only the fallen, but also those still missing in action and the families who continue carrying the enduring weight of that loss.

More than 81,000 Americans remain missing in action from conflicts dating back to World War II. For many families, remembrance carries not only grief, but decades of unanswered questions and enduring hope.

Their absence reminds us that remembrance is not passive.

It requires acts.

And here in Oregon, we continue to demonstrate that commitment in visible and meaningful ways.

In 2015, Oregon law established that the POW/MIA flag be displayed in a place of honor alongside the United States and Oregon state flags at public buildings across our state. Two years later, that commitment was expanded to ensure the POW/MIA flag would continue flying indefinitely at public buildings, including public schools.

The POW/MIA flag serves as a reminder that our nation and our state will never forget those who have died in service to this nation and those who remain missing.

Today, more than 260,000 veterans call Oregon home. Many still carry the visible and invisible burdens of service. Some continue grieving brothers and sisters in arms lost decades ago. And military families across our communities continue carrying the weight of sacrifice every single day.

That is why Memorial Day is still observed today. Not simply as a tradition, but as a civic responsibility. A responsibility to remember the lives behind the names. To preserve their stories. To teach future generations the true cost of freedom.

As communities across Oregon gather this Memorial Day, I hope each of us takes a quiet moment to reflect on those who never returned home and on the families who continue carrying that loss forward.

May we honor them not only with ceremonies and words, but through service to one another, compassion for veterans and military families, and a continued commitment to building a nation worthy of their sacrifice.

Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels is a proud U.S. Army veteran and the Director of the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs (ODVA), overseeing services for more than 260,000 veterans.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 21, 2026

Notice of Virtual Meeting

Douglas County Local Public Safety Coordinating Council (LPSCC)

Behavioral Health and Housing Subcommittee

Tuesday, May 26, 2026

(Douglas County, OR) The next meeting for the Douglas County Local Public Safety Coordinating Council’s (LPSCC) – Behavioral Health and Housing Subcommittee will take place on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at 11:30 am via a virtual conference format.

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

The meeting agenda is attached and can also be found at www.douglascountyor.gov. To view the post meeting recording, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/@douglascountyoregongov.

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Media Contact: Tamara Howell, Chief Public Information Officer | Douglas County Public Affairs Office | Office: (541) 957-4896 | Cell: (541) 670-2804 | Email: a.howell@douglascountyor.gov.">tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov

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

KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORS
 

Take advantage of the summer weather and host a neighborhood BBQ, drop off some summer produce, or find another excuse to connect with your neighbors. Getting to know your neighbors is a great way to foster a sense of community and offers many benefits. One of the most significant advantages of knowing your neighbors is that it helps keep the neighborhood safer. When you have a connection with your neighbors, you become an additional set of eyes and ears in the community. By looking out for one another, you can collectively identify and report suspicious activities, making your neighborhood a less attractive target for criminal activity.

Being familiar with your neighbors enables you to check on each other regularly and recognize when something isn't right. If you notice unusual behavior or potential signs of distress, you can reach out to offer help or alert appropriate authorities. Your early detection of something being off, such as noticing a garage door is unattended and open after dark or noticing a neighbor hasn’t gotten their mail in several days can make all of the difference. In either of these cases, you may be preventing damage to, or theft of, property or you may be able to get help for a neighbor that has fallen or has had another accident that requires attention. When you notice something isn’t right, take a moment to check in with your neighbor (call, text, or knock on their door).

Another benefit of knowing your neighbors is the ability to understand each other's needs and resources during emergencies. In times of crisis, such as natural disasters or power outages, having a support system close by can be invaluable. By building relationships with your neighbors, you can collaborate and help each other in times of need, whether it's by sharing supplies, providing shelter, or simply offering moral support.

In addition to increasing safety and security, knowing your neighbors can also provide a sense of belonging. Take time to get to know your neighbors to help build a healthy community.

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

Joint Release: Douglas County Environmental Health Division, Douglas Public Health Network, and Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Division

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 20, 2026

Bat Infected with Rabies Identified in Douglas County

(Douglas County, Oregon) Douglas County Environmental Health Division, working in conjunction with Douglas Public Health Network and the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Division received a report from Oregon Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory confirming that a bat found in Douglas County, Oregon has tested positive for rabies.  This is the first animal to test positive for rabies in Douglas County in 2026, and the fourth positive case reported in Oregon this year. The last time bats tested positive for rabies in Douglas County was in 2021.

In this case our Douglas County Environmental Health Division coordinated with Umpqua Wildlife Rescue and Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Division to test a distressed bat after a concerned resident brought it in for care.   The resident will be encouraged to do post exposure care for handling the bat, as per Oregon Health Authority Investigative Guidelines for Animal Bites and Rabies.

While rabies is transmitted through the bites of an infected animal, and post-exposure vaccination is effective, Phil Kailiuli, Douglas County Environmental Health Supervisor, says the best plan is prevention. “People should avoid any and all contact with bats or other wild animals; make sure your dogs, cats and ferrets are vaccinated against rabies; and if you are bitten by an animal, please contact your doctor or health care provider and seek medical attention immediately.”

“Bats are an important part of our ecosystem, but people should avoid direct contact with them,” Kailiuli said. “Bats that are sick may be found lying on the ground, unable to fly, or displaying unusual behavior. If you encounter a sick bat or other ill wildlife on your property, do not touch the animal. Bring children and pets indoors and contact our local Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) Roseburg Field Office at (541) 440-3353 or Umpqua Wildlife Rescue at (541) 440-6895 for assistance.”

This notice also serves as a reminder to avoid contact with or interactions with unknown animals. Even animals that appear friendly can bite if provoked or startled.

Other Helpful Tips:

• Avoid contact with bats. If you see a bat during daylight hours, it is most likely unhealthy and should definitely NOT be touched.
• Do not approach or touch a wounded animal, leave that for the professionals.
• Do not feed, try to catch, or play with wild animals such as foxes, squirrels, birds, skunks, opossums, bats, beavers, rats, venomous snakes or raccoons.
• It’s very important that you do not disturb or try to touch an animal while it’s feeding or taking care of its young. Never try to pet or remove a baby or young wild animal from its nest, den or habitat.

For additional tips about animal bites and rabies prevention visit here.   To report an animal bite or if you have questions or concerns related to animal bites or rabies, please contact Douglas County Environmental Health Division at (541) 440-4559 or Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Division at (541) 440-4328.   For more resources you can visit DPHN's Animal Bites webpage or Oregon Health Authority or the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. 

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Media Contacts:

a.howell@douglascountyor.gov">Tamara Howell | Chief Public Information Officer | Douglas County Public Affairs Office | Phone: (541) 957-4896 | Cell: (541) 670-2804 | Email: tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov

Vanessa Becker | Public Information Officer & Public Health Modernization | Douglas Public Health Network | Cell: (541) 817-6552 | Email: vanessa@douglaspublichealthnetwork.org

rad.odell@dougalscountyor.gov">Undersheriff Brad O’Dell | Douglas County Sheriff’s Office | Phone: (541) 440-4464 | Email: rad.odell@douglascountyor.gov">brad.odell@douglascountyor.gov

Jonathan Modie | Oregon Health Authority, Public Health Division | Phone: (971) 246-9139 | Email: PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

May 20, 2026 - Today, a Marion County Grand Jury unanimously found that Woodburn Police Officer Jackson Ryan was justified in his use of deadly physical force towards Israel Hernandez-Martinez (DOB 8/9/1988) in Woodburn, Oregon, on May 2, 2026. 

In reaching their conclusion, the Grand Jury convened to hear testimony from 7 witnesses, including members of the Salem Police Department who led the investigation.  The Grand Jury reviewed evidence including body-worn camera, numerous photographs of the scene, 911 calls, dispatch radio traffic, and autopsy conclusions.  A law enforcement use of force expert was also called to testify about human dynamics in critical law enforcement incidents. 

The following is a factual summary of evidence found by the Grand Jury:

On May 2, 2026, at 10:54 p.m., the METCOM received a 911 call from a passenger in a vehicle on Arney Road just north of the Woodburn Outlet mall stating that a pedestrian had just thrown a rock at her car.  

This area of Arney Road runs roughly parallel to Interstate 5; however, it has multiple S bends that change the road’s direction ninety degrees: from north to south immediately north of the Outlet mall, to east west (where the incident occurred), and back to north south again before Arney Road intersects with Crosby Rd NE. 

The driver of the vehicle was driving southbound on Arney Road towards the Woodburn Outlet mall and slowed to navigate the upcoming bend when he saw someone in the trees next to the west side of the road.  The person in the trees, later identified as Hernandez-Martinez, suddenly crossed into the southbound lane, stood near the center line and as the car passed raised a four-prong tire iron[1] above his head as if he were about to hit the car.   The driver turned his head, thinking the tire iron was about to hit the windshield, but it hit the driver’s side door instead causing damage. He drove away and had his wife, the passenger, call 911.   The couple also had their baby daughter in the vehicle.

Due to the late hour and resulting darkness, the driver was unable to provide a good description of the individual although it was later determined that the passengers of the vehicle and Hernandez-Martinez were strangers.

While the driver of the vehicle was still on the phone with 911, another vehicle pulled up to the victim’s car and reported that a male tried to hit them with a crowbar as well.  When law enforcement later interviewed the occupants of the vehicle, they stated that he was driving west on Arney Road traveling south towards the outlet mall when they saw a male, later determined to be Hernandez-Martinez, standing in the middle of the road.  According to the passenger, Hernandez-Martinez appeared angry, and as they approached it appeared that Hernandez-Martinez was going to hit their car with a “X”- shaped crowbar at his car.  The driver did not stop, and as he drove past, Hernandez-Martinez swung at the car, but missed. The family left the location because he had his girlfriend and their children, a six-year-old son and two-year-old daughter, in the backseat of his vehicle.  Again, it was established that there was no prior relationship between Hernandez-Martinez and this second vehicle.

A short while later, another 911 call was made, this caller stated that they could hear property being damaged near 16817 Arney Road.

Finally, yet another call to 911 was made to report there was an individual attempting to destroy a house at 16847 Arney Road. This location is roughly adjacent to where the two vehicles had been attacked. Law enforcement later found that the residence’s front windows had all been smashed, as well as a vehicle’s windshield that was parked at that location. The caller had been inside the residence and awoke to broken glass falling on him. 

Woodburn Police Officer Jackson Ryan heard the multiple dispatch calls over the radio and dispatched himself to the area to begin looking for the individual. 

Woodburn Police Officer Jesse Ponce also responded to the incident.

Officer Ponce responded to the location from the north, turning south on Arney Road from Crosbey Road NE.  Both officers were driving appropriately marked law enforcement vehicles with decals, lights and other markings showing the vehicles were patrol vehicles.

As Officer Ponce traveled west on Arney Road, he observed a male, later identified as Hernandez-Martinez, running down a driveway towards his patrol car.   It appeared the Hernandez-Martinez was yelling, although it could not be determined what was said.   As Hernandez-Martinez approached, Officer Ponce could see that he was holding a tire iron above his head, as if he were about to strike or throw the object.  As he traveled past, Officer Ponce saw Hernandez-Martinez swing the iron at his patrol car, but Hernandez-Martinez ultimately missed.

Officer Ponce accelerated to create some distance, and as he did so he saw law enforcement approaching him from the other lane (eastbound).  However, he could see Hernandez-Martinez was still chasing after his patrol vehicle.  Officer Ponce further accelerated as Officer Ryan, in the other patrol vehicle, passed his location in the opposite lane of travel.

As Officer Ryan  approached Officer Ponce’s vehicle, he heard Officer Ponce say over the radio that the suspect had tried to hit his car with a tire iron. 

At this point, Officer Ponce was traveling westbound with Hernandez-Martinez chasing his patrol vehicle, while Officer Ryan was traveling eastbound towards Hernandez-Martinez.  Officer Ryan stopped his patrol vehicle as Officer Ponce passed his location.

Officer Ryan exited his patrol vehicle and saw Hernandez-Martinez approximately 20-25 feet from his location.  Officer Ryan attempted to turn on his body worn camera (see more detail below) but was unsuccessful.  Officer Ryan positioned himself between Hernandez-Martinez and Officer Ponce’s vehicle, moving backwards, west, towards Officer Ponce’s location.  Hernandez-Martinez continued to move aggressively towards Officer Ryan, and Officer Ryan could see a tire iron in Hernandez-Martinez’s hand above his head.  He also stated that Hernandez-Martinez was gritting his teeth and yelling, although Officer Ryan couldn’t understand what was being said.  In Hernandez-Martinez’s other hand, he appeared to be carrying additional items. 

Officer Ryan gave Hernandez-Martinez multiple commands to “Stop!” and “You’re going to get shot!” By this time, Officer Ponce had also stopped and exited his vehicle. Officer Ryan knew that Officer Ponce was behind him, although he was not sure exactly where.  Hernandez-Martinez continued to advance towards Officer Ryan.[2]

Officer Ryan fired 4 shots from his department-issued Glock 17 handgun.  

At the time of the shooting, or almost immediately thereafter, two additional Woodburn Officers had arrived on scene.  All the officers provided immediate first aid once the scene was secure.  Despite the efforts of the officers and then emergency medical personnel, Hernandez-Martinez was pronounced deceased on scene.

Investigators from the Salem Police Department took over the scene to conduct an officer involved use of deadly force investigation. Pursuant to Marion County’s Officer Use of Deadly Force Protocol, a non-involved police agency must lead any investigation where law enforcement uses deadly physical force.    

The Woodburn Police Department issues body worn cameras to its officers. To be operable, the officers must first manually power on the camera and then manually set the camera to record before each interaction.[3]  Earlier that evening, Officer Ryan powered off his camera while inside the police department but failed to turn his camera back on upon leaving.  Thus, Officer Ryan’s camera failed to record additional interactions subsequent to leaving the station, including this incident.   Thus, there is no body worn camera from Officer Ryan’s body camera for this specific interaction.

Salem investigators confirmed that no other incidents were recorded after Officer Ryan turned off his camera until much later.  Additionally, investigators confirmed with the manufacturer that there were no recordings that could be recovered nor were any videos otherwise manipulated.

However, Officer Ponce did record a portion of the interaction with his body worn camera, capturing the incident immediately upon shots being fired. That recording was provided to the Grand Jury and is attached to this release.[4]  The investigation showed that at the time Officer Ryan fired his weapon, Hernandez-Martinez was approximately 17-20 feet from Officer Ryan.

A Family Service Coordinator from the Marion County District Attorney’s Office, with the assistance of the Salem Police Department, contacted Hernandez-Martinez’s next-of-kin.

No other witnesses, bystanders or officers were injured during this incident.

Overall, the investigation showed that Officer Ryan fired four times.  At the time of firing his weapon, Hernandez-Martinez was approximately 22 feet from Officer Ryan.  Hernandez-Martinez was struck four times, twisting to the ground as he fell.  There was no evidence to suggest that the bullets were fired at close range.

On May 3^rd, 2026, Deputy State Medical Examiner Phillip Bennett conducted an autopsy and determined that Hernandez-Martinez died from multiple gunshot wounds. Based on Hernandez-Martinez’s twisting motion, the Grand Jury found that Hernandez-Martinez was first struck in the front and side of his torso and then two bullets entered his back, one through the shoulder and another closer to his back’s midline.  There was no immediate indication of intoxicating substances, however formal toxicology results remain pending.

In addition, law enforcement later recovered Hernandez-Martinez’s vehicle several hundred yards north of the incident, abandoned at another residence.  The vehicle’s windows had been smashed and the tire irons had been removed from the vehicle.

Hernandez-Martinez had four prior arrests. He had an active warrant for his arrest for a failure to appear in court for Strangulation-Domestic Violence probation violation[5], and had previously been convicted of Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants[6], Driving While Suspended[7], and Assault in the Fourth Degree and Disorderly Conduct[8].  None of his prior criminal history was presented to the Grand Jury.

Oregon Revised Statute 161.242 describes when a peace officer may use deadly physical force.  The Grand Jury applied the facts of this case to the legal principles dictating circumstances when deadly physical force can be used.  Specifically, the Grand Jury unanimously found that, under the totality of the circumstances known to Officer Ryan, he reasonably determined that the use of deadly physical force was necessary as:

• Israel Hernandez-Martinez had committed and attempted to commit the violent felony of Unlawful Use of a Weapon; and/or that,
• deadly physical force was necessary to defend a peace officer or another person from the use or threatened imminent use of deadly physical force;

and that

• under the totality of the circumstances existing at the time and place, the use of such force was justified.

The Grand Jury further found that all reasonable alternatives, such as verbal de-escalation, waiting, or using other available techniques or resources, weren’t feasible as Hernandez-Martinez was not responding to law enforcement’s attempts with a reasonable opportunity to comply. 

The Grand Jury's decision required reviewing all the facts and evidence available and applying them to the legal principles above.  Overall, the Grand Jury concluded that the actions of Officer Ryan were justified and lawful. 

After the Grand Jury’s determination, representatives from the Marion County District Attorney’s Office, including their Family Service Coordinator, met with representatives of Hernandez-Martinez’s family to explain the legal determination and answer any questions that they had.

Marion County Chief Deputy District Attorney Brendan Murphy stated, "I would like to thank the Grand Jury for their review of this dangerous situation. These incidents are often traumatic and difficult, so I appreciate the grand jury’s thorough examination.”

Marion County District Attorney Paige Clarkson added that, “This incident shows how quickly a routine police response can become deadly. I am thankful that Officers Ryan and Ponce are unharmed and were there to protect our community that day. To all our Law Enforcement in Marion County: We are grateful that you continue to protect and serve." She continued, “I further extend my condolences to Hernandez-Martinez’s family.”

Chief Deputy DA Brendan Murphy additionally stated that: “Despite having several incidents in the recent months, Marion County continues to fulfill the important requirements of the Marion County Use of Force Protocol with skill, integrity, and transparency.  Marion County’s process for community oversight into these challenging events remains an ideal model.”

The Marion County District Attorney’s Office would like to especially thank the Salem Police Department for their excellent investigation.  Additionally, the DA’s Office would like to thank all the law enforcement agencies who assisted in the resolution and investigation of this incident. 

The following items from the investigation can be located from the Google Drive link below:

• 911 calls of the incident (3)
• Photograph of Hernandez-Martinez’s tire iron(s) on his person;
• Radio traffic of the incident.
• Woodburn Police Officer Jesse Ponce’s body worn camera, redacted.
• Frame-by-frame exhibit of the body worn camera
• Redacted scene Overhead photo

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1JHvWHTrChqQOPjoWQEcPhhpsXJZXDFJl?usp=drive_link

Chief Deputy District Attorney Brendan Murphy and Deputy District Attorney Braden Wolf presented the investigation to the Grand Jury.  Questions can be directed to BPMurphy@co.marion.or.us

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 20, 2026

Commissioners Celebrate National Search & Rescue Week

(Douglas County, Ore.) – Douglas County Commissioners celebrated National Search & Rescue Week by issuing a proclamation to our Douglas County Search and Rescue (SAR) coordinators and volunteers at their weekly business meeting on Wednesday, May 20, 2026.  The proclamation recognizes the incredible dedication of volunteer rescuers and rescue personnel in Douglas County and across the nation. 

“Our volunteers in Search and Rescue provide a critical role in the Sheriff’s Office response to lost and missing persons, natural disasters, and sometimes we depend on them to help us with criminal investigations.  I want to thank the Douglas County Board of Commissioners for your constant and full support of our Search & Rescue program over the years. You have always recognized the importance of Search & Rescue and always provided us with the resources we need.  Most importantly, I want to thank our volunteers for your commitment and dedication to our Search & Rescue Program,” commented Douglas County Sheriff John Hanlin. 

Commissioner Kress provided a background on Douglas County Search and Rescue program, Commissioner Boice read the National Search & Rescue Week proclamation on behalf of all three Commissioners, and then Commissioner Boice presented proclamation certificates to Douglas County Sheriff John Hanlin, Douglas County Undersheriff Brad O’Dell, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) SAR Deputy Larissa May, DCSO SAR Deputy Derek Sweeden, DCSO Marine Deputy Todd Wingfield, DCSO USFS/Pacific Power Deputy Jayson Forte, Private Timber Deputy Kevin Webb, Special Services Lieutenant Tarun Tillet, as well as the following Douglas County Search & Rescue Volunteers: Margaret Avila, Wendy Lang, Diane McKillop, Mary Malone (K9 Sabina), Representative Virgle Osborne, Kevin Freeto, Joel Lemke, Wendy Hagberg, and Holly O’Dell.

“Thank you Commissioners.  I just want to say that the success of our Search and Rescue Program is completely because of the volunteers in our community who give selflessly every time they are called upon no matter the capacity.  Whether it be a search for someone or a recovery when we know the person is deceased and ultimately have to leave their families and bring that person home to theirs.  The people in our community who step up and decide to be search and rescue volunteers are dedicating hundreds of hours to obtain the training that’s required to reach their Oregon State Sheriff’s Office certification and then continue to selflessly give back to in our community.  It is really all their effort and hard work that makes us so successful.  I want to thank them and their families that support them and allow them to give back,” added Douglas County Sheriff’s Deputy and SAR Coordinator Larissa May. 

The volunteers within Douglas County SAR operate under the direction of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO), with the support of the Douglas County Board of Commissioners.  SAR members donate their time, skills, and expertise to help those in need.  Douglas County SAR volunteers completed 97 missions in 2025, utilizing 85 adult volunteers who donated 5,745 hours of their time.  They also participated in 48 outreach/education events and conducted 108 training exercises. The Douglas County SAR Dive Team made up of 8 members, logged 19.5 mission and 64 dive training hours.  Douglas County SAR is made up of over 75 dedicated volunteers who on their own time rigorously and regularly train and complete required certifications for the following SAR units in Douglas County: Communications Team, Mounted Team, Ground Team, 4x4 Team, Snow Cat Team, Dive Team, K-9 Team, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Team, Logistics Team, Mountain Rescue Team, and Tracking Team.  They provide comprehensive search and rescue services across the county and also assist DCSO with wildfire evacuations, emergency events, and criminal investigations. 

“Thank you to all of the Board of Commissioners for your support.  I’ve been on a number of search and rescue missions, and we have an amazing group of Search & Rescue volunteers here in Douglas County.  I’ve seen some people give it their all.  We don’t get paid for this job, but it’s nice to know that we have the support of the County and the Sheriff’s Office and know that when we are out there, we have that with us.  It makes our job safer and helps us do what we need to do. I am proud to be part of Search & Rescue and I plan to always be part of it,” commented Representative Virgle Osborne. 

National Search & Rescue Week: First observed in May of 2010, National Search & Rescue Week was established when the United States Senate passed a resolution designating the fourth week in May each year to honor our nation’s Search and Rescue personnel and volunteers.  Search and rescue organizations are composed of mainly volunteer experts in search and rescue and disaster response.  They come from a wide range of skilled backgrounds, including pilots, mountaineers, divers, urban technicians, dog handlers, backcountry horsemen, snowmobilers, and ATVers. 

“What Search & Rescue is, is people who spend a tremendous amount of time training to help others.  They train all on their own, voluntarily and train in specialized areas like ground search, how to read a compass, GPS and road maps, first aid, tracking and using specialized equipment,” remarked Commissioner Chris Boice.  “It’s important for people to understand that these people who are going out volunteering their time and at times risking their own lives, are highly trained and very dedicated.  And I truly appreciate that.  The work you do matters, even when the outcome is not what we want - it is important to the public and to the families.  We could not do this work without you volunteers.  Our county is much better off because of your dedication and commitment to training.  Thank you!”

Additionally, to show their support to all SAR volunteers and personnel the Commissioners have instructed our Facilities Department to Turn the Night Orange, as they have changed the exterior lights on the Douglas County Courthouse to Orange lights from May 18-24.  A copy of the live video presentation can be found on the Douglas County Government Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/DouglasCountyeGovernment.

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

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

The Douglas County Board of Commissioners, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and the Douglas County Search and Rescue program are all functions and divisions of Douglas County Government. 

Oregon’s waterways are therapeutic, no matter the activity. For mental health, physical fitness, angling, and spending time with friends and family. That is why recreational boating is one of the best ways to create memories. The Oregon State Marine Board advocates that all boaters be aware of their surroundings while on the water, have all the required safety gear, and ensure others know their recreation plans in case of an incident.
 

“Part of the boating experience is planning ahead, preparation of all the necessary gear, and ensuring your boat is ready for the water,” says Brian Paulsen, Boating Safety Manager for the Oregon State Marine Board. “And most importantly, wearing a properly fitted life jacket while boating should be at the top of everyone’s minds.”

The Marine Board has many resources to help boaters have a safe and enjoyable experience on all of Oregon’s waterways. The agency advises boaters to take the time to plan, including learning how to use the Marine Board’s interactive Boat Oregon Online Map. The map displays public boat ramps, local rules for boat operations and other information about a facility, like the facility owner and amenities. Make sure to check the weather forecast, water levels, and tides. Additionally, see if there are any reported waterway obstructions using the agency’s obstructions dashboard map. Boaters can also check the Marine Board’s website to find out what equipment is required based on the size and type of boat.

The Marine Board would like to remind ALL boaters and their passengers to:

• Boat Sober. Abstain from consuming marijuana, drugs, or alcohol, which impair judgment, reaction time, and coordination and contribute to dehydration. Boating demands sharp situational awareness. Pay attention to your surroundings and enlist the help of passengers to keep a lookout as well.
   
• All children 12 and under are required to wear a life jacket when underway on all boats (motorized and non-motorized). All boaters operating in Class III and higher-rated whitewater rivers are required to wear a life jacket.
   
• Be courteous to other boaters and share the waterway. Stage your gear in the parking lot or staging area regardless of your boat type. This makes launching faster and everyone around you happier.
   
• In Oregon, all motorboat operators with propulsion greater than 10 horsepower must take a boating safety course and carry a boating safety education card when operating the boat. Paddlers of non-motorized boats (kayaks, canoes, rafts, stand up paddleboards and their inflatable versions) are required to purchase a Waterway Access Permit. The Marine Board also offers a free, online Paddling Course (also available in Spanish) for boaters new to paddling activities.
   
• Fill out a float plan and leave it with friends and family. This way, they can call for help if you are overdue.

This information and more can be found at Boat.Oregon.gov. Use the search bar for the fastest content results.

May is traditionally the month recreational boating starts to pick up. Governor Kotek acknowledges how vital boating safety outreach is for educating visitors and Oregonians about safe boating and water recreation practices, aiming to decrease preventable deaths. May 16-22, 2026, has officially been proclaimed National Safe Boating Week.

The agency also invites boating and water enthusiasts to check out its “Welcome to the Water” flagship video, showing Oregon’s abundance and diversity of boating opportunities around the state.

-End-

EUGENE, Ore.— A Coos Bay, Oregon, man pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court for causing a child to produce child sexual abuse material (CSAM), attempting to cause an adult to produce CSAM with his minor child, and distributing CSAM to others.

Thomas Owen Barnett, 40, pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual exploitation of a child. 

According to court documents, between September and December 2023, Barnett encouraged a minor victim to create and send him CSAM.  In September 2024, Barnett distributed CSAM of that minor victim on Kik, an online chat platform, and sought money in exchange. The same month, Barnett posed as the minor victim online and asked a man in a foreign nation to make and send him CSAM depicting the man’s very young child.

On February 20, 2025, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned a four-count indictment charging Barnett with sexual exploitation of a child, attempted sexual exploitation of a child, as well as possession and distribution of child pornography.

Barnett faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison and a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and a supervised release term of five years to life. He will be sentenced on September 1, 2026, before a U.S. District Court judge. Additionally, Barnett has agreed to pay restitution to the victim and forfeit certain property. 

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

This case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the North Bend Police Department and the Coos County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by William M. McLaren, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

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

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

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

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EUGENE, Ore.— Two Colombian nationals unlawfully residing in the United States pleaded guilty in federal court for their roles in a multi-state burglary conspiracy that targeted Asian American small business owners in Oregon and Washington.

Derinson Martinez-Grandas, 34, and Steven Alexander Quiroga-Solano, 27, each pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit interstate transportation of stolen goods.

According to court documents, in early October 2025, Martinez-Grandas, Quiroga-Solano, and their co-conspirators burglarized four homes belonging to victims in multiple states, including Oregon and Washington.

Martinez-Grandas, Quiroga-Solano, and their co-conspirators traveled state to state and targeted homes for burglary by performing internet research on potential Asian American targets. They stayed in short-term rentals and identified and surveilled potential burglary victims, all Asian American small business owners, and then performed reconnaissance on the victims’ residences.

When they carried out the burglaries, the defendants employed signal jamming technology, perimeter countersurveillance, and communicated on seven-way group calls. They entered their victims’ homes by shattering glass doors. Once inside, they ransacked residences, stealing United States and foreign currency, jewelry, designer handbags, purses, wallets, travel documents, and other valuables. After the burglaries, the crew returned to their short-term rental to package the proceeds for transport, transfer, or transmittal.

Following a burglary in Salem, detectives learned that the defendants returned to their rental in Eugene and executed a search warrant at the rental that night. Investigators recovered money and property, believed to be stolen from the various residences, more than a dozen cell phones, believed to be used by the burglary crew, evidence of money wires to Bogota, Colombia, and various Colombian travel documentation, including passports. They also located commercial-grade Wi-Fi signal jammers that were plugged in and charging following their suspected use during the burglary that day.

A search of their devices revealed additional evidence of the conspiracy, including sending and receiving coordinates for the houses they burglarized, surveillance communications, and shared messages highlighting the burglary targets from the preceding days.

For instance, Quiroga-Solano researched Chinese restaurants two days before the burglary crew victimized a family owning a Chinese restaurant. He was in the vicinity of a victim’s home in Gresham the night before it was burglarized, which authorities believe was in preparation for the following day’s burglary. Martinez-Grandas secured short term rentals for the crew in Auburn and Eugene and mapped the address of the Salem home on the day of that burglary. Both Martinez-Grandas and Quiroga-Solano returned to the Eugene rental to package stolen property the night of the Salem burglary.

Martinez-Grandas and Quiroga-Solano each face a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. They will be sentenced on July 14, 2026, before a U.S. district court judge.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Eugene Police Department with assistance from the Salem Police Department, the Auburn Police Department, and the Gresham Police Department.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William M. McLaren.

# # #

Salem, OR – State Chief Economist Carl Riccadonna and Senior Economist Michael Kennedy presented the latest economic outlook and revenue forecast to the Senate Interim Committee on Finance and Revenue, and House Interim Committee on Revenue on Wednesday, May 20. 

What is different about this forecast?

At the beginning of the year, many economists forecasted the U.S. economy to grow faster in 2026 than it did in 2025. Stronger growth was expected to help improve a stagnant national labor market. However, tensions in the Middle East resulted in a severe energy price increase that is putting strain on consumers and businesses. As a result, economic growth forecasts for 2026 have been downgraded.

From a revenue perspective, ongoing financial market gains and resilient corporate profit trends are offsetting employment-related weakness.

Revenue Forecast

This quarter’s General Fund revenue forecast is now projected to be $345 million higher than the prior forecast. The increase is due to the Legislature’s action during the 2026 legislative session, which includes disconnecting from various provisions of the 2025 federal tax cuts (H.R. 1). These actions made up for some unexpected weakness in the economy and tax receipts to date. Without these actions, the forecast would have been down by $23 million.

About the Office of Economic Analysis

The state chief economist oversees the Office of Economic Analysis, within the Department of Administrative Services, and provides objective forecasts of the state’s economy, revenue, populations, corrections population and Youth Authority population. These forecasts are used across state government, and by the public for a variety of reasons, notably to inform the state budgeting process. For more information about the Office of Economic Analysis (OEA) and recent forecasts, visit the OEA website. 

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For Immediate Release: May 20, 2026

Media Contacts: 

umenauer@employ.oregon.gov">Gail Krumenauer, State Employment Economist, (971) 301-3771

Video and Audio available at 10 a.m. PT

David Cooke, Economist, (971) 375-5288

Oregon’s Unemployment Rate Was Unchanged at 5.2% in April

Oregon’s unemployment rate was 5.2% in each of the first four months of 2026. The U.S. unemployment rate was 4.3% in both March and April.

In April, Oregon’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment rose by 500 jobs, following a loss of 4,300 jobs, as revised, in March. April’s gains were largest in health care and social assistance (+1,900 jobs) and construction (+800). Losses were largest in professional and business services (-1,000 jobs); financial activities (-900); and retail trade (-800).

Health care and social assistance grew rapidly in the past 12 months, adding 12,500 jobs, or 4.0%. During the past four years, the sector grew rapidly and consistently, adding a total of 58,100 jobs, or 21.7%, since April 2022. In the past 12 months, each of its component industries grew quickly: social assistance (+5,500 jobs, or 6.6%); nursing and residential care facilities (+2,800 jobs, or 4.7%); ambulatory health care services (+2,500 jobs, or 2.3%); and hospitals (+800 jobs, or 1.2%).

Professional and business services continued to shed jobs at a pace similar to the past three years. This major industry cut 9,300 jobs, or 3.6%, in the past 12 months. Losses were large in each of its three component industries: administrative and waste services (-4,300 jobs, or -4.4%); professional and technical services (-3,200 jobs, or -2.9%); and management of companies and enterprises (-1,800 jobs, or -3.7%).

Manufacturing employment dropped 400 jobs in April, following steep losses over the prior three years. In the past 12 months, durable goods manufacturing cut 5,500 jobs, or 4.4%, while nondurable goods manufacturing cut 1,500 jobs, or 2.7%.

Next Press Releases

The Oregon Employment Department plans to release the April county and metropolitan area unemployment and jobs data on Wednesday, May 27, and the next statewide unemployment rate and employment survey data for May on Wednesday, June 17. 

About Workforce and Economic Research

The Workforce and Economic Research Division of the Oregon Employment Department develops and distributes quality economic and workforce information to help Oregonians make informed decisions and support a thriving economy. Staff collect data from state and federal records and surveys; analyze the available information; and share insights with the public in a variety of ways, including regular reports, publications, and the website, QualityInfo.org.

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.

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SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Board of Forestry will meet at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 3. 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:

• Western Oregon State Forests Management Plan
• Forest Protection Association Budget
• Rangeland Fire Protection Association Budget

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 at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-302-6344 or by email at oardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov" target="_blank">boardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov. 

The Oregon Board of Forestry consists of seven citizens nominated by the Governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate. Responsibilities include 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. Learn more about the board.

(SALEM, Ore.) – Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (ORPD) is offering digital 12-month parking permits starting May 21. For the same price as a physical parking permit – $60 for in-state residents and $75 for out-of-state residents – you can always have your parking permit with you.

“The digital parking permit check one more item off your packing list,” said Deputy Director JR Collier. “This is a modern, convenient and accessible way to visit Oregon’s state parks.”

Both daily and 12-month digital parking permits will be available on the Oregon State Parks website starting May 21. Some parks also have signs with QR codes that link to the website. Digital permits can also be ordered by phone at 1-800-452-5687. The phone line is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST.

You can register up to two license plates under your 12-month digital parking permit. No proof of permit is required to park; your registered license plate is your permit. These permits are good for 365 days from the purchase date at all Oregon State Park day-use parking lots. You will get a reminder by email 30 days before the permit expires.

If you’ve already purchased a physical 12-month parking permit, it is still valid until it expires. You cannot exchange a physical permit for a digital one.

Learn more about getting a digital parking permit online.

About OPRD

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department’s mission is to provide and protect outstanding natural, scenic, cultural, historic and recreational sites for the enjoyment and education of present and future generations. The department houses the State Historic Preservation Office and manages Heritage Programs, the state’s ATV Program, Recreation Grants and Community Programs, and Oregon State Parks.

What:

The Bureau of Land Management invites the public to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence through three public events across Oregon in 2026. The events foster a deeper appreciation of our nation’s past, the beauty and value of public lands, and the work it takes to sustain the health and productivity of these lands for the use and enjoyment of generations to come.

The events are part of the national Freedom 250 commemoration and also recognize the BLM’s 80th anniversary of public land stewardship.

Media interviews and on-site visuals will be available at all three events.

Featured Freedom 250 Events:

1. Oregon Trail Days – Baker City, Ore.

When: Saturday, June 13, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT

Where: Geiser-Pollman Park, Baker City, Ore.

The signature Freedom 250 event for BLM Oregon/Washington, Oregon Trail Days transforms Geiser-Pollman Park into an immersive Oregon Trail experience featuring wagon rides, storytelling, live demonstrations, music, crafts, and games.
 

The free, family-friendly celebration highlights the role public lands play in preserving the landscapes and stories tied to America’s westward expansion. Additional programming will also take place at the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center throughout the weekend.

2. Wood River Wetland Volunteer Day – Near Klamath Falls, Ore.

When: Saturday, June 20, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. PT

Where: Wood River Wetland, approximately 30 miles north of Klamath Falls, Ore.

This Freedom 250 volunteer event invites the community to assist with invasive weed removal and restoration work on public lands.

The event highlights the continued role Americans play in caring for public lands through volunteerism and stewardship.

3. Victorian Holiday Celebration – Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area

When: Saturday, Dec. 12, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT

Where: Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, near Newport, Ore.

This coastal Freedom 250 event connects visitors to Oregon’s maritime history through a Victorian-themed holiday celebration at the Yaquina Head Lighthouse.

Activities may include caroling, historical parlor games, ornament crafts, interpretive storytelling, and live music.

Why:

As a dedicated custodian of America’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage, the Bureau of Land Management in Oregon and Washington proudly celebrates the 250th anniversary of American independence with the nation.

From iconic landmarks like Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area to the historic Oregon Trail, BLM-administered public lands represent the spirit of the nation’s foundational principles. These events honor stories of exploration, resilience, stewardship, and public service woven throughout America’s history.

RSVP:

Media interested in attending any Freedom 250 event should contact Samantha Ducker at LM_OR_WA_Press@blm.gov">BLM_OR_WA_Press@blm.gov 

-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.