Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) Director Michael Reese today announced the appointment of Kevin Bovenkamp as the new Assistant Director of Health Services. He will join the DOC team August 11, 2025.
Mr. Bovenkamp began his career in corrections in 2005, as the Director of Organizational Development with Washington State Department of Corrections (WA DOC) and more recently served as the Assistant Secretary of WA DOC’s Health Services Division from 2013 to 2019.
Mr. Bovenkamp brings more than 20 years of experience working in corrections and in health care services, with 7 years of that time in correctional health services settings. He is passionate about public service and deeply committed to equity, accountability, and quality care for justice-involved populations.
Before joining DOC, Mr. Bovenkamp served as the Assistant Secretary of Behavioral Health and Habilitation Administration for the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services. There he oversaw statewide healthcare operations, behavioral health services, and habilitative supports. As part of this role, Mr. Bovenkamp directed healthcare staffing initiatives, succession planning, and leadership development that strengthen team performance and built organizational resilience.
In addition to completing his Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice at Seattle University, he has a certificate in Executive Management from University of Washington, and a Master of Science degree in Health/Correctional Health Care Administration from George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences.
“I am excited to welcome Mr. Bovenkamp to the Oregon DOC team. I am confident he will make a significant impact, both for Health Services and for DOC,” stated DOC Director Michael Reese.
The Oregon Department of Corrections Health Services provides health care to adults in custody (AICs) at each institution. State and federal laws ensure that AICs are entitled to health care during incarceration. Healthcare services to AICs must be comparable to health care provided in the community. This means all types and levels of health care must be provided in a clinically appropriate manner by properly credentialed professionals in settings equipped and designed for the delivery of health care. Health care includes medical, dental, psychiatric, and mental health services.
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Video Available for Download: https://vimeo.com/1101683853?share=copy#t=0
JCSO Case 24-0952
EAGLE POINT, Ore. – Illegal Marijuana Enforcement Team (IMET) detectives served a search warrant the morning of Thursday, July 10, at a black-market cannabis grow on a farm in rural Eagle Point. During the search warrant in the 15200 block of Highway 62, IMET detectives seized approximately 988 illegal marijuana plants, 22 lbs. of processed cannabis, and $3000 cash. One suspect was detained on scene and charges of felony marijuana manufacture and possession are being referred to the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office.
There was no licensing for any type of cannabis growing, handling, or processing at this location. IMET was assisted by Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies, and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents.
During the search warrant, Jackson County Code Enforcement responded to the scene and issued a total of $15,000 in fines to the landowner. The fines were issued for violations related to failure to obtain land use approval for marijuana production, utilizing RV’s for dwelling purposes within a marijuana grow site, solid waste, an unpermitted second dwelling, and multiple unsafe and non-permitted electrical, mechanical, plumbing and structural installations.
Oregon Water Resources Department Enforcement section Watermasters also responded to investigate the property’s water usage. Watermasters issued a Notice of Violation (NOV) to the responsible parties for the unlawful use and appropriation of groundwater for the cultivation of an unpermitted crop. This type of water violation is subject to both civil and criminal penalties.
While regulatory agencies investigate permitted cannabis operations, IMET is focusing on the black-market marijuana trade in the Rogue Valley. IMET is a multi-agency task force funded by a grant from the Oregon Criminal Justice Commission. The task force includes personnel from JCSO, Oregon State Police, and the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office.
Investigations are open and ongoing with detectives working additional leads. No further information is currently available for release.
Portland, OR — From July 27–August 9, Oregon and Washington educators are invited to visit the Japanese American Museum of Oregon, Lan Su Chinese Garden, Maryhill Museum of Art, Oregon Historical Society, and Portland Chinatown Museum for free as well as take part in educator-focused events and tours.
Educators can let staff at each institution’s admissions desk know that they are an educator to access free admission (no school identification required).
Local cultural attractions are powerful resources for educators, offering resources and programs to support educators’ work in classrooms. From professional development workshops to state standards-aligned curriculum and lesson plans to digital resources, educators can access a wide range of tools to enhance their teaching at no cost.
Educators are encouraged to take advantage of these free admission weeks to learn about the unique resources available at each institution as well as participate in special events and tours created specifically for teachers.
Participating Institutions & Program Schedule:
Please note that while some institutions request reservations to attend these programs, any educator who would like to attend will be welcomed.
Japanese American Museum of Oregon
411 NW Flanders Street
Portland, OR 97209
Note: Use the entrance around the corner on 4th
Hours: Wednesday–Saturday, 10am–4pm; Sunday, 11am–4pm
239 NW Everett Street
Portland, OR 97209
Hours: Monday–Sunday, 10am–6pm
Immersion School Educator Tour
followed by resource sharing and tea
Friday, August 1, 1pm–2:30pm
Lan Su Chinese Garden Educator Tour
followed by resource sharing and tea
Friday, August 1, 1pm–2:30pm
Please register here if you plan to attend either tour.
35 Maryhill Museum Drive
Goldendale, WA 98620
Hours: Monday–Sunday, 10am–5pm (from March 15–November 15)
Damien Gilley Vista Vista Exhibition Opening
Saturday, August 9, 2pm to 4pm
Damien Gilley Artist Talk
Saturday, August 9, 3pm
Please register here if you plan to attend the artist talk.
1200 SW Park Avenue
Portland, OR 97205
Hours: Monday–Saturday, 10am–5pm; Sunday, 12pm–5pm
Oregon Historical Society Educator Tours and Resources Overview
Wednesday, July 30, 10am–12pm
Thursday, August 7, 10am–12pm
Please register here if you plan to attend one of the tours.
127 NW Third Avenue, Portland
Hours: Thursday–Sunday 11am–3pm
Portland Chinatown Museum Educator Tour
Friday, August 8, 11am–12:30pm
Please RSVP to info@portlandchinatown.org with your first and last name if you plan to attend.
A note from the Portland Art Museum: PAM will be sitting out this year’s Educator Free Weeks as the Museum undergoes a major expansion and renovation project, however, educators are encouraged to visit on the August 7 Free First Thursday. PAM looks forward to welcoming educators to the grand opening celebration November 20–24 and to free professional development programs throughout the school year.
About the Oregon Historical Society
For more than 125 years, the Oregon Historical Society has served as the state’s collective memory, preserving a vast collection of objects, photographs, maps, manuscript materials, books, films, and oral histories. Our research library, museum, digital platforms, educational programming, and historical journal make Oregon’s history open and accessible to all. We exist because history is powerful, and because a history as deep and complex as Oregon’s cannot be contained within a single story or point of view.
Correction: The Oregon State Police learned this morning that Logan James Irwin did not succumb to injuries sustained from being struck by a vehicle on Sunday, July 6, 2025, near Tangent. Mr. Irwin is currently receiving medical care at a local hospital. OSP has contacted Mr. Irwin’s family to express our deep regret for the reporting error and any additional pain it may have caused. We sincerely apologize for this error.
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Correction: Headline corrected to Linn County.
Linn County, Ore. 8 July 2025- On Sunday, July 6, 2025, at 4:09 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian crash on Highway 34, near milepost 6, in Linn County.
The preliminary investigation indicated a pedestrian, Logan James Irwin (24) of Tangent, entered the eastbound lane and was struck by an eastbound Subaru outback, operated by Edward Thomas Peterson.
The pedestrian (Irwin) was declared deceased after being transported to an area hospital.
The Subaru operator (Peterson) was reportedly uninjured and remained at the scene.
The highway was impacted for approximately three hours during the on-scene investigation.
OSP was assisted by the Linn County Sheriff's Office and ODOT.
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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU)
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in the documentation, investigation, and analysis of complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in the use of advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.
An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, William Carl Jordan, died the evening of July 13, 2025. Jordan was incarcerated at Oregon State Penitentiary (OSP) in Salem and passed away in the infirmary while on hospice care. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified.
Jordan entered DOC custody on June 6, 2024, from Washington County with an earliest release date of September 17, 2026. Jordan was 68 years old.
DOC takes all in-custody deaths seriously. The agency is responsible for the care and custody of approximately 12,000 men and women who are incarcerated in 12 institutions across the state. While crime information is public record, DOC elects to disclose only upon request out of respect for any family or victims.
OSP is a multi-custody prison located in Salem that houses approximately 2,000 adults in custody. OSP is surrounded by a 25-foot-high wall with 10 towers. The facility has multiple special housing units including disciplinary segregation, behavioral health, intermediate care housing, and an infirmary (with hospice) with 24-hour nursing care. OSP participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises including the furniture factory, laundry, metal shop, and contact center. It provides a range of correctional programs and services including education, work-based education, work crews, and pre-release services. OSP was established in 1866 and, until 1959, was Oregon’s only prison.
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At 7:03 p.m. on July 14, 2025, firefighters responded to a report of smoke showing in the area of Vine Street and Oakland Avenue. Firefighters arrived on scene to find a single-family residential structure, located on Poplar Street, with flames and smoke showing from the rear portion of the structure. Upon arrival, firefighters found a hot tub that was fully engulfed with flames and was spreading to the rear corner of the nearby residential structure.
Upon arrival, firefighters confirmed residents of the home had already evacuated the structure. Firefighters extinguished the fire, checked for extension to the interior portion of the home, and completed overhaul of the structure. The single-family residence sustained structural, smoke, and water damage. The hot tub was a total loss. The cause of the fire is under investigation. No injuries were sustained due to the fire.
Fifteen firefighters assisted with firefighting operations. Other agencies assisting with the fire included Central Douglas Fire & Rescue, Avista Utilities, and Pacific Power.
SALEM, Ore. – Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) is one of the first housing finance agencies in the country to offer a non-competitive funding process after launching the Oregon Centralized Application (ORCA) a year ago. The affordable housing funding process is an always-open system that accepts applications on a rolling basis. This modern structure enables an ongoing evaluation of projects, allowing those that are ready to move forward without waiting for the next funding opportunity.
Over the past year, 91 affordable housing projects submitted applications—with 42 receiving funding approvals from the Housing Stability Council, totaling 2,797 urgently needed homes.
One of the benefits of the ORCA it that it allows OHCS to track how many affordable housing developments are seeking funding. Currently, more than 15,000 rental homes are in the development pipeline across the state. These homes could potentially get funded and built if OHCS has available resources.
“Being satisfied with the status quo is not enough to address Oregon’s housing needs. Rather than relying on outdated ways of doing business grounded in the past, partners and OHCS came together —under Governor Kotek’s leadership —to build something new and better on different terms,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell. “This new approach is not for the sake of innovation itself, but a means to deliver outcomes that make everyday life better for the people of Oregon.”
The ORCA process was created to eliminate unnecessary barriers and support developers earlier. By finalizing funding after core due diligence is completed, OHCS ensures that projects are more resilient to setbacks and better positioned to break ground quickly.
Developers like Jessy Ledesma of HomeWork Development and Anna Mackay of Sister City—the team behind Portland’s Shortstack Belmont project—say ORCA has made a real difference. The two women, who are developing apartments for moderate-income households, credit the ORCA process for helping them stay on track and access crucial LIFT funding.
“As developers who’ve worked through years of OHCS funding cycles, we really appreciated the updated ORCA process,” Ledesma and Mackay shared. “It’s clear, flexible, and helped us stay on track. We appreciate how we can move projects forward more organically. OHCS staff were super helpful at every stage.”
Matthew Vorderstrasse, executive director of the North Bend City/Coos-Curry Housing Authorities, also welcomed the roll out of the new funding process. "The ORCA process has been a game-changer for the South Coast. Through our collaboration with OHCS, we’ve advanced two much-needed developments—Phase I of North Bend Family Housing and Ellensburg Housing in Gold Beach. It has been decades since housing at this scale has been produced in our region, and we’re deeply grateful for the partnership and resources OHCS has brought to Coos and Curry Counties through ORCA.”
OHCS is preparing to implement further updates to ORCA in the upcoming 2025–2027 biennium, including strategies to better serve rural communities, ensure a more predictable funding pipeline, and support readiness for new legislative investments.
About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS)
OHCS is Oregon's housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of low and moderate income. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs.
Lane County proudly announces a significant step forward in regional economic development with the approval of Sierra Pacific Industries’ (SPI) $253 million Oregon Strategic Investment Program application.
The tax incentive, approved unanimously by the Lane County Board of Commissioners on June 10, is designed to encourage long-term business investment and signal to other companies that Lane County is a prime location for growth and innovation. The Board’s support underscores Lane County’s focus on fostering business growth, supporting jobs, and strengthening the local economy.
The Oregon Business Development Commission, part of Business Oregon, also voted unanimously on July 11 to provide the final necessary approval of the application.
Board of County Commissioners Chair David Loveall emphasized the broader significance of this investment, noting that it sets a precedent for future business development in the region.
“Lane County is open for business,” shared Chair Loveall. “At a time when Oregon communities are facing economic uncertainty, we want to send a strong message to those looking to invest in Oregon: Lane County welcomes you with open arms.”
Sierra Pacific Industries’ investment will create substantial economic benefit to Lane County. While the company is projected to save $6 million in property taxes over the 15-year SIP period, it will generate approximately $21.9 million in new property taxes and services revenue. This includes an estimated $19.9 million from new assessed property taxes and $2 million in Community Service Fee (CSF) payments. The company also plans to make a voluntary, one-time $525,000 contribution to Lane County’s rural patrol program.
"This support from Lane County is more than an economic boost—it’s a vote of confidence in Sierra Pacific’s presence in the region and our shared vision for long-term, sustainable growth,” said SPI CEO Mark Emmerson. “The investment we’re making in Eugene will ensure our ability to support family-wage jobs and grow the county economy for years to come."
Beyond economic growth, this investment also strengthens local infrastructure and emergency response capabilities in the area surrounding the project. The CSF paid by SPI will provide new revenues for 75 percent of the surrounding area’s non-education taxing authority. The Lane Fire Authority is expected to receive just over $1 million in CSF payments.
"This investment marks an important milestone for our region,” shared Lane County Community and Economic Development Manager Jason Harris. “This capital commitment by SPI represents economic growth, innovation, and an invitation for partnership in our communities.”
With about 350 people currently employed at the Eugene mill and as a leader in sustainable forestry and manufacturing, SPI has expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to invest in Lane County. Across Lane County, the company also has a sawmill in Noti, nearly 33,000 acres of sustainably managed forests, and a total employment of nearly 500 people. The company’s commitment to responsible business practices and economic development aligns with the County’s vision of a thriving business environment.
The Strategic Investment Program (SIP) was created by the Oregon Legislature in 1993 to support large capital investments by companies that create long-term economic value. The program provides temporary property tax abatement to encourage companies to invest in local operations, retain jobs and strengthen the local tax base over time. Increased tax revenues support critical public infrastructure and community services such as public safety. Urban SIP Projects, like SPI’s project, require a minimum investment of $150 million with companies continuing to pay property taxes on the first $100 million of that investment.
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The Corvallis School District will no longer use FlashAlert for notifications after July 31, 2025.
Notifications about district closures, school cancellations, or delays are shared directly with staff, families, and students through ParentSquare. These updates are also available on our:
District website: www.csd509j.net
Facebook: @csd509j
Instagram: @corvallis.schools
We encourage you to follow these channels to stay informed.
Thank you for staying connected and for your continued support of the Corvallis School District.
Salem, OR – Enterprise Information Services (EIS) has partnered with InnovateUS to launch a series of courses to train state of Oregon employees on the responsible use of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) as part of our commitment to building an informed and capable public service workforce. InnovateUS, a leading provider of no-cost training, has developed courses that are specific to public sector employees and use practical examples and exercises to train on artificial intelligence and responsible use.
“Generative AI is vastly developing, and this training aligns with the work of the State Government Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council that recognized the future of government depends first and foremost on people, supported by technology” said Terrence Woods, Oregon State Chief Information Officer. “This opportunity will provide our workforce with the knowledge and skills to use generative AI in their work responsibly, securely, and effectively.”
The training is a step towards enabling agencies to educate their teams, so they can appropriately utilize the modern capabilities of GenAI, while also mitigating its potential issues. It supports the goal of being more effective stewards of public resources.
Generative AI technology offers several benefits to both employees and the public by enhancing government efficiency, improving customer service, streamlining processes, and empowering the workforce with the skills and tools necessary to improve the lives of Oregonians.
Media Contact: Isabel Anderson
Telephone: (206)640-5388
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Red Cross issues advice to stay safe during extreme heat
Heat can be dangerous for anyone. Stay hydrated, stay cool and stay connected.
[July 15th, 2025] — We’re experiencing some of the hottest temperatures of the year across Oregon and SW Washington. The American Red Cross urges everyone to take three critical actions to stay safe:
“Knowing what to do to protect yourself and loved ones from extreme heat can save lives,” said Priscilla Fuentes, Chief Executive Officer of the Cascades Region. “We’re asking everyone to check on friends and neighbors, especially older adults, people with chronic conditions, outdoor workers and athletes. You could make all the difference by sending a text, making a call or knocking on their door.”
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO Remind everyone to drink water, even if they don’t feel thirsty. Aim for a cup of water every hour and encourage people to avoid sugary, caffeinated or alcoholic drinks. Babies should be breast-fed or bottle-fed often. Fewer wet diapers or darker urine can be signs of dehydration.
Encourage athletes and outdoor workers to take breaks in the shade. They should drink a cup of water — or a sports drink — every 20 minutes.
Help those without air conditioning find a safe place to go like a mall, library or cooling center. They can also take cool showers or baths to help cool off. Remind people to wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothes in light colors.
Never leave a child or pet alone inside a parked car, and make sure pets have access to fresh water and shade.
HEAT ILLNESS SIGNS Anyone can become ill during extreme heat if their body can’t cool down properly. It’s critical to act fast as some types of heat illness can be deadly.
Heat cramps are signaled by heavy sweating and muscle pain. Take action by stopping what you’re doing, resting in a cool place and drinking a cup of water — or a sports drink — every 20 minutes. If you feel sick to your stomach, pause drinking. Get medical help if cramps last more than two hours or you have heart problems.
Heat exhaustion is signaled by heavy sweating, weakness, cool and clammy skin, muscle cramps, dizziness, fainting, nausea or vomiting. Take action by stopping what you’re doing, resting in a cool place and drinking a cup of water — or a sports drink — every 20 minutes. Loosen your clothes and place a cool wet cloth on your body. Get medical help if you’re vomiting, don’t feel better in an hour, or if you have heart or kidney problems.
Heat stroke is a deadly condition signaled by high body temperature, rapid heartbeat, confusion, headache, dizziness, fainting, nausea or vomiting. Call 911. Move to a cooler place, remove extra clothing and use a wet cloth or a cool bath to cool down. If possible, sip a sports drink or water.
IF THE POWER GOES OUT When a heat wave and a power outage happen at the same time, it can be even more dangerous. Stay in air conditioning either at home or at a mall, library or cooling center. Keep an ice-filled cooler stocked with food, water and medicine, so that they don’t spoil. More information is available here.
Finally, download the free Red Cross First Aid app so you’ll know what to do if emergency help is delayed and the free Emergency app for real-time weather alerts and heat safety information. Content is available in English and Spanish with an easy-to-find language selector. Find both apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
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SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon State Fire Marshal is mobilizing resources to a fast-moving wildfire in Jefferson and Wasco counties. The Cram Fire, reported Sunday off Highway 97 at Willowdale, has grown to an estimated 2,000 acres, according to fire managers. On Monday, the Cram Fire was pushed by gusty winds and temperatures in the mid-90s prompting levels 1, 2, and 3 evacuation notices in both counties.
The Oregon State Fire Marshal is sending its Green Incident Management Team and four task forces to provide structure protection and additional help. The task forces are from Lane, Multnomah, Washington, and Yamhill counties.
“The next 24 hours will be extremely challenging for this fire with continued gusty, shifting winds and hot temperatures,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “This is the sixth time the Emergency Conflagration Act has been invoked this summer and comes as a reminder that we need everyone’s help to stay wildfire aware and prevent new fire starts.”
Resources from the Willowdale and Ashwood-Antelope Rural Fire Protection Associations, the Bureau of Land Management, and the Oregon Department of Forestry are actively working to stop the fire.
The Oregon State Fire Marshal Green Incident Management Team will be briefed Monday at 7 p.m.
For evacuation information:
Drivers are asked to slow down and follow all signs from the Oregon Department of Transportation along Highway 97. Fire crews are using the highway for active firefighting, and smoke may reduce visibility.
About the Oregon State Fire Marshal
The Oregon State Fire Marshal became an independent state agency in July 2023. The agency is dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The OSFM works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office.
PORTLAND, Ore.—A West Linn, Oregon man has been charged with illegally possessing machine guns, unregistered short-barreled rifles, and firearm silencers.
Lucas Christopher Perillo, 41, has been charged by criminal complaint with unlawful possession of a machinegun and unlawful possession of an unregistered short-barreled rifle or silencer.
According to court documents, on June 17, 2025, FBI agents executed federal search warrants on Perillo, his residence, and his vehicle. Agents located and seized 36 firearms, including three firearms converted with machine gun switches and 13 unregistered short-barreled rifles, firearm silencers, and other firearm parts.
Machine gun conversion devices, sometimes referred to as switches, are small attachments used to convert firearms from semi-automatic to fully-automatic.
On July 11, 2025, Perillo was arrested in West Linn. He made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge and was ordered detained pending further court proceedings.
This case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the Oregon State Police. It is being prosecuted by Parakram Singh, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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JOINT RELEASE
As temperatures surge across Oregon, the National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Watch, Heat Advisories and Extreme Heat Warnings for parts of Oregon, Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), and the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) are urging all residents to take precautions against the dangerous heat affecting the region. Heat of this intensity poses serious health risks for everyone—particularly older adults, children, people with disabilities, outdoor workers, pregnant people, and those without air conditioning.
Erin McMahon, Director of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management, emphasized that one of the most serious risks during extreme heat is how easily people underestimate its effects over time. “It’s not just about a single hot day,” she said. “The real danger comes from the ongoing impact of several days of high temperatures without a break, which can have deadly consequences.” She noted that during the July 4–7 heatwave last summer, 11 people in Oregon lost their lives—making it one of the most lethal weather events in the state’s history. “Heat is deadly,” she warned, “and we must respond to it with the seriousness it demands.”
Heat-related illnesses can progress rapidly and impair judgment. Understanding the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke is critical:
Condition |
Symptoms |
Action |
Heat Exhaustion |
Heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea |
Move to a cool place and hydrate—use cool towels and ice packs on the neck and feet (do not put a person in cold water – it can cause shock) |
Heat Stroke (Emergency) |
Confusion, high body temp, loss of consciousness, no sweating |
Call 911 immediately |
Learn more at: bit.ly/45XeNlS
For medical emergencies or concerns about someone at risk, call the Police Non-Emergency number in your area for a welfare check—or 911 if immediate care is needed. Your actions can save lives. Stay cool, stay safe and stay connected.
High temperatures heighten the risk of wildfires:
Oregonians are also urged to conserve energy:
Report excessive pricing of essential goods or lodging to the Oregon Department of Justice’s Consumer Protection Services: doj.state.or.us/consumer-protection
Alert Type |
When It's Issued |
Heat Index (East / West of Blue Ridge) |
Excessive Heat Watch |
Possible extreme heat in 24–48 hrs. |
110°+ / 105°+ |
Excessive Heat Warning |
Expected extreme heat in 12–24 hrs. |
110°+ / 105°+ (can be issued earlier or for longer heat waves) |
Heat Advisory |
Expected hot weather in 12–24 hrs. |
105–109° / 100–104° (can also be issued earlier or during prolonged heat) |
East of Blue Ridge: Alerts kick in at slightly higher temperatures
West of Blue Ridge: Thresholds are a bit lower due to cooler climate conditions
Mientras suben las temperaturas en Oregon, el Servicio Nacional de Meteorología (National Weather Service – en inglés) ha emitido una Alerta de calor extremo (en inglés), Avisos de calor (en inglés), y Advertencias de calor extremo (en inglés) para partes de Oregon. El Departamento de Servicios Humanos de Oregon (Oregon Department of Human Services, ODHS por sus siglas en inglés), y el Departamento de Manejo de Emergencias de Oregon (Oregon Department of Emergency Management, OEM) piden a todas las personas que viven en el área que se cuiden por el calor fuerte que hay en la región. El calor de esta intensidad es un riesgo grave para la salud de todos – especialmente los adultos mayores, los niños, las personas con discapacidades, las personas que trabajan al aire libre, las personas embarazadas y las personas que no tienen aire acondicionado.
Erin McMahon, directora del Departamento de Manejo de Emergencias de Oregon, indicó que uno de los riesgos más graves durante el calor extremo es lo fácil que es subestimar sus efectos acumulativos. “No se trata solo de un día caluroso,” dijo. “El verdadero peligro proviene del impacto continuo de varios días de altas temperaturas sin alivio, lo cual puede tener consecuencias mortales.” Señaló que durante la ola de calor del 4 al 7 de julio del verano pasado, 11 personas en Oregón perdieron la vida, convirtiéndola en uno de los eventos meteorológicos más letales en la historia del estado. “El calor es mortal,” advirtió, “y debemos responder con la seriedad que exige.”
Aprenda a reconocer y actuar a las enfermedades por calor
Las enfermedades causadas por el calor pueden avanzar rápido y afectar el juicio de las personas. Comprender los síntomas del agotamiento de calor y el golpe de calor es muy importante:
Condición |
Síntomas |
Acción |
Agotamiento de calor |
Sudoración intensa, debilidad, mareo, náuseas |
Muévase a un lugar fresco e hidrátese – use toallas frías y bolsas de hielo en el cuello y los pies (no coloque a la persona en agua fría, puede causar un shock) |
Golpe de calor (Emergencia) |
Confusión, temperatura alta del cuerpo, pérdida de conocimiento, no hay sudor |
Llame al 911 inmediatamente |
Obtenga más información (en inglés): bit.ly/45XeNlS
Manténgase fresco y seguro
En caso de emergencias médicas o si le preocupa alguien en riesgo, llame al número de la policía que no es de emergencia en su área para solicitar una visita de bienestar – o llame al 911 si necesita atención inmediata. Sus acciones pueden salvar vidas. Manténgase fresco, manténgase seguro, y manténgase conectado.
Recuerde el aumento del peligro de incendios y la conservación de energía
Las temperaturas altas aumentan el riesgo de incendios forestales:
A las personas de Oregon también se les pide que conserven la energía:
Reporte si ve precios excesivos de bienes esenciales y alojamiento a los Servicios de Protección al Consumidor del Departamento de Justicia de Oregon: doj.state.or.us/consumer-protection (en inglés)
Manténgase informado
Entendiendo las Alertas de Calor
Tipo de alerta |
Cuando se emite |
Índice de calor (Este /Oeste de Blue Ridge) |
Alerta de calor excesivo |
Posible calor extremo dentro de 24 a 48 horas |
110°F o más / 105°F o más (43.3°C o más/40.6°C o más) |
Advertencia de calor excesivo |
Se espera calor extremo dentro de 12 a 24 horas |
110°F o más / 105°F o más (43.3°C o más/40.6°C o más - puede emitirse antes o para olas de calor más largas) |
Aviso de calor |
Se espera calor dentro de 12 a 24 horas. |
105°F –109°F / 100°F –104°F (40.6°C -42.8°C/37.8°C-40.0°C - también puede emitirse antes o durante el calor prolongado) |
On July 10, 2025, at approximately 2:23pm, Albany Fire Department responded to a report of a large field fire reportedly 20 feet away from nearby residences and businesses. Albany Police Department responded to the fire for traffic control, evacuation efforts, and investigation. Upon arrival, several people were trying to fight the fire with garden hoses, and the farmer arrived promptly with their water truck to assist. Despite windy conditions, Albany firefighters were able to quickly extinguish the fire.
After further investigation Albany Police determined the fire resulted from a criminal act. The following day, July 11, 2025, Albany Police detained a 13-year-old male juvenile and lodged him at the Linn Benton Juvenile Detention Center on charges of Arson in the 1st degree and 2nd degree.
According to the farmer, an estimated 5 acres were damaged in the fire. We want to thank the Albany Fire Department and mutual aid partners for their quick response to this incident.
SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has finalized its Annual Operations Plans (AOP). The plans describe projects planned for state forests in the 2026 fiscal year that began July 1 and runs through June 30, 2026. These include:
ODF received 516 written comments during the public comment period that was open from April 18 to June 3.
“Once again, we received many passionate and constructive comments from the public, representing diverse perspectives and demonstrating a high level of interest and engagement in state forests,” said Nick Palazzotto, ODF’s State Forests Division Deputy Chief. “The comments help us in the challenging work of trying to balance ODF’s legal obligation to manage state forests for timber production to meet economic goals as well as social and environmental outcomes—a concept referred to as Greatest Permanent Value.”
State forests provide economic, social and environmental benefits, including:
The majority of timber sales are on Board of Forestry lands, where about two thirds of the resulting revenue is split with the counties. In turn, the counties share those revenues with special districts that support local schools or provide other essential community services. ODF retains one third of the revenue to fund management of state forests. A small portion of the timber sales are located on Common School Forest Lands and generate revenue for the state’s Common School Fund.
Some comments resulted in edits to specific timber sales while others are addressed in a high-level summary of the comments received highlighting the major themes, topics, and agency responses.
“We read and consider every comment,” said Palazzotto. “However, we do not respond individually to each one. Sale-specific comments are considered by the field and technical specialists and changes are documented in the plans. We also develop a summary with broad categories that capture the high- level comments and provides our responses to the public commentary.”
The comment summary document has the following sections:
“Because we manage state forests for the Greatest Permanent Value, we have to consider how our decisions impact all Oregonians, not just a single commenter,” said Palazzotto. “So even though we made changes to some sales, not everyone will be satisfied with those changes. We recognize that and seek to be as transparent as possible in our decisions.
We know Oregonians care about their forests as we received more than 500 comments this year. Given the high interest in how state forests are managed, ODF will continue to work on improving communications with landowners, neighbors and concerned citizens. Our goal is to raise awareness of our AOP process and how people can connect with us to have their concerns heard.”
The Fiscal Year 2026 Annual Operations Plan documents are available for ODF’s Astoria, Forest Grove, Klamath-Lake, North Cascade, Tillamook, West Oregon and Western Lane districts. These are located on the same webpage as the summary of comments and agency response document.
Salem – Student loan borrowers faced significant confusion and frustration this past year in navigating the shifting landscape of loan repayment and forgiveness programs, according to a new report issued by Oregon’s student loan ombuds. Federal student loan repayment and forgiveness options continued to be challenged in court and intermittently available, according to the report.
Lane Thompson, who has served as Oregon’s student loan ombuds since the position’s creation more than three years ago, said the past year has been the most challenging yet.
“Because the rules continue to change, it leads to frustration and confusion for both borrowers and servicers. The ongoing nature of the changes has compounded these sentiments from borrowers,” Thompson said. “Forced collections resumed in May, so many borrowers are feeling the potential consequences of their student loan debt for the first time in five or more years. Another change, announced since the report was published, will also result in additional costs for borrowers.”
Part of the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation, the student loan ombuds is tasked with helping guide borrowers through their options and navigate the confusing student loan landscape. Thompson recently posted the program’s third annual report.
Two major takeaways from the report are:
Going into year four, Thompson said she is hopeful that her work will help keep servicers on track during a time when financial entities have less federal oversight.
“The continuously changing rules result in less clear expectations for servicers, and makes regulatory oversight even more crucial. The chilling effect created by federal changes means state regulators are more important than ever,” Thompson said. “Helping people understand their rights and responsibilities is also key.”
Thompson said the other area where her position is having an effect is in helping student loan borrowers avoid scams.
“Scam attempts increase during times of financial upheaval, and one goal of the licensure structure is to help Oregon’s consumers check the legitimacy of collection attempts,” she added.
Thompson said she has resolved more complaints and participated in more advocacy this past year than previous years.
“Not every state has a student loan ombuds/advocate,” she said. “When there is a lack of clarity at the federal level, state level advocates and regulators can serve as a backstop for borrowers who have issues with the servicing of their student loans. I feel lucky to serve Oregonians in these times.”
If you have questions about your student loans or issues with your loan providers, contact Thompson at 888-877-4894 (toll-free) or .bankingproducthelp@dcbs.oregon.gov">dfr.bankingproducthelp@dcbs.oregon.gov. Check a student loan servicer license at NMLSConsumeraccess.org.
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About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.
GRANTS PASS, Ore. – The steady thrum of rotor blades filled the air as Staff Sgt. James Grow raised his right hand 1,500 feet above southern Oregon, reenlisting for three more years of service while aboard a CH-47 Chinook helicopter during what may have been the most memorable oath ceremony of his military career.
Grow was one of dozens of Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers who participated in MEDEVAC 101 training on Sunday, July 13, at the Grants Pass Armory. This event combined critical medical evacuation instruction with morale-boosting familiarization flights that left lasting impressions on participants.
"It's important, especially in such a large organization, to see what other parts of the organization do, and how the state as a whole utilizes us," said Warrant Officer 1 David Weber, a pilot with Company G, 1st Battalion, 189th Aviation Regiment, who helped conduct the training alongside his Salem-based unit.
The comprehensive training brought together Soldiers from Delta Company and Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment, along with personnel from Headquarters and Headquarters Company for hands-on instruction in medical evacuation procedures. Using an HH-60 Black Hawk helicopter from Company G, 1st Battalion, 189th Aviation Regiment, aviation crew members demonstrated proper litter loading techniques and the intricacies of both cold and hot loading procedures, critical skills that could mean the difference between life and death in emergency situations.
"We do it all the time on the radio and do practical exercises as just infantry, but actually doing it with the helicopter here and doing the hot loading, cold loading, seeing their capabilities is huge to us as infantrymen," said 1st Lt. Ian Namu, who coordinated the training event.
The training extended beyond medical evacuation to showcase the broader mission capabilities of Oregon's aviation assets. Weber's crew covered their diverse mission set, including search and rescue operations and wildland firefighting support roles that directly serve Oregon communities during natural disasters and emergencies.
For many Soldiers, the highlight came during familiarization flights aboard the CH-47 Chinook from Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 168th Aviation Regiment, based in Pendleton. Before the morale flights began, the Chinook crew conducted preflight briefings for all participants. When Namu asked how many had never flown in a Chinook or worked with helicopters, 20 to 30 hands shot up, representing a significant learning opportunity for the ground forces.
"It's an experience that these guys will take and be like, 'Hey, I did something cool this drill weekend,'" Namu said. "I think it shows some form of appreciation for the things that they do, the hard work that these ground pounders do."
The aerial portion of training proved so memorable that two Soldiers chose to conduct their reenlistment ceremonies while airborne, in addition to Grow's three-year commitment, Sgt. Cruz Lopez also reenlisted during the flight, both taking their oaths while soaring over the Oregon landscape.
The event also included members of the Recruit Sustaining Program (RSP), giving future Soldiers who have enlisted but not yet completed basic training and Advanced Individual Training a preview of the opportunities awaiting them in the Oregon National Guard.
Oregon National Guard members serve part-time, typically one weekend a month and two weeks a year, while maintaining civilian careers. They stand ready to respond to state emergencies such as wildfires and floods, while also training to defend the nation when called to federal service. Guard members live and work in the same communities they serve, creating a unique connection between military service and local communities.
"Big thing, I think morale and retention is the biggest thing, hopefully that helps our numbers," Namu said, reflecting on the training's broader impact beyond just technical skills.
The MEDEVAC 101 training exemplified the Oregon National Guard's commitment to preparing Soldiers for diverse missions while fostering the esprit de corps that keeps citizen-Soldiers engaged and ready to serve both state and nation when called upon.
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Released B-Roll video: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/970010/oregon-guard-soldiers-take-flight-during-medevac-training-b-roll
Released Photos:
250713-Z-ZJ128-1001
Sgt. 1st Class Marcus Hickman, a crew chief with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 168th Aviation Regiment, gives a preflight safety briefing to Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers during MEDEVAC 101 training at the Grants Pass Armory in Grants Pass, Oregon, July 13, 2025. The training event brought together Soldiers from Delta Company and Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment, for hands-on medical evacuation instruction and familiarization flights. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)
250713-Z-ZJ128-1002
Recruit Sustaining Program (RSP) personnel walk up the ramp of a CH-47 Chinook helicopter for a familiarization tour of the aircraft during MEDEVAC 101 training at Grants Pass Airport in Grants Pass, Oregon, July 13, 2025. RSP members, who have enlisted in the Oregon Army National Guard but have not yet completed basic training, received instruction on Army rotary-wing operations and airframes as part of the comprehensive training event. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)
250713-Z-ZJ128-1003
1st Lt. Ian Namu administers the oath of reenlistment to Sgt. Cruz Lopez aboard a CH-47 Chinook helicopter with an American flag as the backdrop during MEDEVAC 101 training in Grants Pass, Oregon, July 13, 2025. Lopez reenlisted for three years during the familiarization flight over Medford and Ashland, making for a memorable ceremony at 1,500 feet above southern Oregon. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)
250713-Z-ZJ128-1004
Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers hot load onto a CH-47 Chinook helicopter at Grants Pass Airport before the second familiarization flight during MEDEVAC 101 training on July 13, 2025. The Chinook from Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 168th Aviation Regiment, conducted two morale flights over Medford and Ashland, transporting Soldiers as part of a comprehensive training event held at the Grants Pass Armory. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 14, 2025
Contact:
Board of Forestry to meet on July 16
SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Board of Forestry will hold a special virtual meeting on Wednesday, July 16, starting at 10 a.m. The purpose of the special meeting is to allow the Board to connect with the Governor’s Office natural resources policy advisors regarding the plan for the State Forester recruitment.
The board’s agenda for July 16 includes:
Opening Comments and Introductions
State Forester Recruitment Roles and Responsibilities
Board Discussion
Closing Comments
The full agenda is available on the board’s webpage.
Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling ODF’s Public Affairs Office at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-945-7200 or by email at estryinformation@odf.oregon.gov" rel="noreferrer noopener" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text; -webkit-user-drag: none; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">forestryinformation@odf.oregon.gov.
The Oregon Board of Forestry consists of seven citizens nominated by the Governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate. Responsibilities include appointing the State Forester, setting management direction for state-owned forests, adopting rules governing timber harvest and other practices on private forestland, and promoting sustainable management of Oregon’s 30-million-acre forestland base. Read more information about the board.
Yakima, Wash. – Thirteen people are charged following the return of 12 indictments alleging more than a dozen charges against these defendants for trafficking fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana on the Yakama Nation Reservation.
The arrests follow a long-term joint federal, local, and tribal investigation that began in late 2024, concluding in June 2025, led by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Bureau of Indian Affairs. The investigation targeted violent individuals and armed drug traffickers on the Yakama Nation and in the Yakima Valley with the goal to disrupt drug distributors operation both on and off the reservation.
“In late 2024, escalating drug-related activity—including opioid trafficking, overdose fatalities, and an alarming number of homicides—prompted the DEA to select the Yakama Nation Indian Reservation for a 120-day drug initiative under DEA Operation Overdrive,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “The fentanyl powder and pills that we took off the streets could have yielded about 250-thousand lethal doses, enough to kill everyone living in Yakima County. Enough to kill every member of the Yakama Nation more than eight times over. “
Operation Overdrive is a national, multi-phased program, which targets hot spots where drugs and violent crime are prevalent. The DEA utilizes its full range of data, intelligence, operational resources, and partnerships to combat drug-related violent crime and overdose deaths. The goals of Operation Overdrive are to decrease overdose rates in target areas, decrease gun violence rates, increase community engagement, and remove the drug networks that are causing harm to our communities.
“Fentanyl continues to be one of the most dangerous substances threatening our communities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Stephanie Van Marter. “Thanks to the hard work and tireless dedication of our tribal, state and federal law enforcement partners, working side by side with members of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Yakima, offenders have been removed from our communities and families are safer today.”
To date, agents have seized 7,100 pounds of marijuana, 336 pounds of methamphetamine, nearly 25 pounds of cocaine, 7 pounds of fentanyl power, 4,704 fentanyl laced pills, $22,512 in drug proceeds, and 12 firearms.
According to unsealed charging documents, the following individuals have been charged in connection with the investigation. The United States anticipates bringing additional charges against other individuals identified during this investigation.
Angel Navarro Aleman, age 55, charged with Distribution of 50 Grams and More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine (three counts)
Jose Francisco Aguirre, age 56, pleaded guilty to Distribution of 50 Grams and More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine; sentencing in July 2025.
Jose Caudillo-Ascencio, age 23 charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute a Mixture or Substance Containing Cocaine; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime
Jesus Caudillo, age 31, charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm
Johnny Thomas Axtell, age 54, charged with Distribution of 5 Grams or More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine; Distribution of Fentanyl
Israel Nicolas Castaneda, age 37, charged with Distribution of Fentanyl; Distribution of 40 Grams or More of Fentanyl
Samantha Rasberry-Besa, age 31, charged with Distribution of 40 Grams or More of Fentanyl; Possession of Firearms in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime
Lonzell Hawk Lucei, age 37, charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm
Hollis Marion Woodward, age 70, pleaded guilty to Felon in Possession of a Firearm, sentencing in September 2025.
Miguel Angel Alvarado-Munoz, age 45, charged with Alien in United States After Deportation
Ira Charles Pete, age 39, charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm
Edgar Jovnni Nunez Bocanegra, age 29, charged with Drug User in Possession of a Firearm; Possession with Intent to Distribute 5 Grams or More of Actual (Pure) Methamphetamine; Possession of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime
Fernando Gonzalez, age 38, charged with Possession with the Intent to Distribute 400 Grams or More of Fentanyl, Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Indian Affairs conducted the investigation along with Homeland Security Investigations, FBI, ATF, Yakima Police Department, Wapato Police Department, Yakama Nation Tribal Police Department, and the Yakima County Sheriff’s Office.
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Eugene, OR. Eugene Springfield Fire responded to a series of suspicious brush fires early Monday morning. Between the hours of midnight and 3AM, ESF responded to three separate brush fires along a mile section of the East Bank Bike Path in Eugene.
The first fire was reported on Goodpasture Island Road near the East Bank Bike Path just before 1AM. The fire was quickly handled by Brush 9 and Engine 9 from the Valley River Station.
The second fire was reported by multiple callers just after 2AM, stating there was a large brush fire west of Marist High School. The fire was along the bike path and Brush 9 was the only unit able to access the fire. The crew located a 100’ x 50’ section of the Willamette River bank burning in dense vegetation. While responding to the 2nd fire, Battalion 1 located an additional 30’ x 50’ fire a quarter mile to the north of the Marist incident along the path. The total response to the incident included 3 Engines, two type 6 brush trucks, a Battalion Chief, a Utility ATV, two Deputy Fire Marshall’s, and Eugene Police.
After the fires were brought under control, crews performed extensive mop up. The cause of the fires is suspicious and under investigation by the Fire Marshall’s Office.
At approximately 6:30pm Sunday night, Lebanon Fire District crews were dispatched to a report of a vehicle into power lines with a pole down. On arrival, BC31 assumed command and found a small pickup had struck both a utility pole and a fire hydrant, coming to rest with live power lines draped over the vehicle.
The lone occupant was alert and remained in the vehicle for safety while waiting for Pacific Power to secure the lines. E31 and Lebanon PD established traffic control to maintain scene safety.
Once power was cut, the patient was taken to Lebanon Community Hospital. The cause of the crash is under investigation. E31 and BC31 remained on scene to assist with extended traffic control while Pacific Power conducted repairs. Repairs could take up to 8-10 hours to complete.
At 09:08 on Sunday morning crews from Central Douglas Fire and Rescue and Lookingglass Rural Fire District were dispatched to the report of a structure fire on Circle Drive in the Green district. All of the residents of the home were able to safely exit prior to our arrival. The house was heavily involved in flames and required a second alarm response to fully extinguish.
Thanks to the efficient response of our firefighters, the fire was contained to the single house and did not spread any further. There was significant damage to the structure and the amount of property loss is significant. No injuries were reported by the residents or the firefighters working at the scene.
CDF&R and Lookingglass Rural Fire District responded to this incident with 7 fire engines, an air unit, and a command unit with a total of 22 personnel. The fire is believed to have been caused by an unattended candle in a bedroom. Crews were assisted by Umpqua Valley Ambulance, Avista and PP&L.
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Due to successful firefighting efforts the Level 1 evacuation notice for JAC-325B and JAC-326 has been canceled. These zones are located south of Highway 140.
Know Your Zone https://protect.genasys.com/
Jackson County Sheriff's Office has Canceled the Level 1 evacuation notice for the area of: JAC-325B, JAC-326
Jackson County Sheriff's Office ha Cancelado la alerta de Nivel 1 de Evacuación para: JAC-325B, JAC-326
SALEM, Ore. – On Saturday evening, the Oregon State Fire Marshal mobilized their Blue Incident Management Team and three structural task forces to the Highland Fire in Crook County south of Prineville. One task force was sent earlier on Saturday through Immediate Response.
The wind-driven Highland Fire sparked on Saturday afternoon, and levels 1, 2, and 3 evacuations are in place for those living near the fire.
The Immediate Response task force arrived Saturday evening, and the incident management team and two additional task forces will arrive on Sunday morning before being briefed to begin work protecting structures.
“Fire conditions are affecting much of the state with little relief in the forecast,” said State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple. “We are asking all Oregonians to be aware of the conditions and do everything they can to prevent sparking a wildfire.”
A conflagration was invoked by Governor Kotek on Saturday evening, allowing the state fire marshal to mobilize structural protection resources.
Follow the Crook County Sheriff’s Office for the latest evacuation information. See the evacuation map here.
This is the fifth time the Emergency Conflagration Act has been invoked in 2025.
About the Oregon State Fire Marshal
The Oregon State Fire Marshal became an independent state agency in July 2023. The agency is dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The OSFM works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
UPDATE: July 12, 2025
CONTACT: Salem Police Communications Office | spdmedia@cityofsalem.net
Fourth suspect in custody
A fourth suspect has been taken into custody as part of the ongoing investigation into an incident of gunfire that erupted the evening of June 30 in the parking lot of a south Salem fast food eatery.
A 17-year-old boy was taken into custody without incident on July 11 at approximately 10:00 p.m. at an apartment in the 5900 block of Park CT SE. A loaded handgun was also seized. The boy was transported and lodged at the Marion County Juvenile Detention Center on the following charges:
The incident remains an ongoing investigation, and all media inquiries concerning the case must be directed to the Marion County District Attorney’s Office.
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Originally published July 1, 2025
Three arrested after shots fired in south Salem
Salem, Ore. — Salem Police arrested two adults and one juvenile on the evening of June 30 related to a disturbance ending in shots being fired in the parking lot of McDonald’s 5090 Commercial St SE.
At approximately 10:24 p.m. officers were dispatched to the call of a disturbance. As officers were arriving, vehicles connected to the incident were attempting to flee the scene. Officers stopped one vehicle, contacted three occupants, and ultimately seized a 9mm handgun. Multiple spent shell casings located at the scene were collected as evidence.
Arrested were Rubi Zambrano, 20, Dakoda Clark-Adkins, 18, and a 15-year-old male, all from Salem, on various charges related to the incident. Zambrano and Clark-Adkins were lodged at the Marion County Correctional Facility and will be arraigned today at 2:30pm at the Marion County Court Annex 4000 Aumsville Hwy SE. The juvenile was released to a parent.
While no injuries to persons or significant damage to property was immediately reported, people in the area may have witnessed the incident or have damage to property. Anyone with information is asked to call 503-588-6123 option 1 to make a report.
All further inquiries into this investigation should be directed to the Marion County District Attorney’s Office.
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(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, is thankful for the community support to find Sahara Feldmiller.
Sahara, age 16, is a child who went missing from Oregon City on July 6. She was found on July 11.
Sometimes when a child is missing they may be in significant danger and ODHS may need to locate them to assess and support their safety. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and assess their safety, media alerts will be issued in some circumstances when it is determined necessary. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.
Report child abuse to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233). This toll-free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year.
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Eugene, OR. Eugene Springfield Fire responded to a house fire in Eugene’s South hills Saturday morning. Firefighters were called to a fire in the vicinity of 43rd and Fox Hollow just after 9 AM on July 12th. Engine 15 from 33rd and Donald arrived about 5 minutes after dispatch to find a home on fire in the 4100 block of Alder St. E15 reported heavy fire on the back exterior of the home that had extended to the attic and 2nd floor living room. E15 quickly attacked the exterior fire while additional crews made entry to search for victims and extinguish the interior fire.
On July 11th, 2025, the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office requested assistance with an ongoing investigation at a crash scene along Highway 18 near milepost 11. Grand Ronde Tribal Police were on scene as the vehicle involved had been reported stolen the previous day in their jurisdiction. Oregon State Police and Tillamook County Sheriff’s Office were also involved in this investigation.
One suspect was apprehended on scene hours prior, however investigators were concerned by blood evidence found on scene and a trail of blood leading to the wood line nearby. Officers suspected a second suspect had been involved in the vehicle theft and subsequent crash, and were concerned for his wellbeing. The Lincoln City Police Department was contacted to assist locating the injured suspect and K9 Nix was deployed. With K9 Nix’s assistance the second suspect, 48-year-old Brian Peoples of Gladstone Oregon, was apprehended nearby with serious injuries. Peoples was transported via ambulance for emergent medical care and remained in custody. After medical care was provided, Peoples was released, and will be lodged into the Tillamook County Jail.
During the investigation, evidence of multiple felony property crimes was uncovered including crimes within Lincoln City in the hours preceding the crash. This teamwork by multiple agencies highlights how law enforcement officers work across multiple jurisdictions in pursuit of justice.
Good Job K9 Nix!
(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Sahara Feldmiller, age 16, a child in foster care who went missing from Oregon City on July 6. Sahara is believed to be in danger.
ODHS asks the public for help in the effort to find Sahara and to contact 911 or local law enforcement if they believe they see her.
Sahara was last seen under the 205 Bridge at Marine Drive and is known to frequent Sandy, Oregon and Mt. Hood Area.
Name: Sahara Feldmiller
Pronouns: she/her
Date of birth: October 16, 2008
Height: 5-foot-2
Weight: 98 pounds
Eye color: Blue
Hair color: Dark Blonde
Law Enforcement Agency Case #25-014218
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children #2055501
Sometimes when a child is missing they may be in significant danger and ODHS may need to locate them to assess and support their safety. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and assess their safety, media alerts will be issued in some circumstances when it is determined necessary. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.
Report child abuse to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233). This toll-free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year.
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You're invited to join the Rowena Wildfire Debris Management Task Force for a media tour highlighting household hazardous waste removal of the debris cleanup effort. This is an opportunity to learn more about the coordinated recovery work underway, ask questions of subject matter experts, and gather photos and footage for public awareness.
Location: Mayer State Park, 5865 Rowena River Rd, Rowena, OR 97058
Date: Tuesday, July 15, 2025
Time: 10 a.m.
Who will be available for media interviews:
Stephanie Krell, Public Information Officer, Debris Management Task Force
Charles Kennedy, State On-Scene Coordinator, Debris Management Task Force
Sheriff Lane Magill, Deputy Incident Commander, Debris Management Task Force
Closed-toe shoes are required and long pants are recommended. Please bring personal protective equipment, including high-vis vests, safety glasses and N95 masks, as their availability will be limited on-site.
? Registration is required to participate. Please register by 5 p.m., Monday, July 14, 2025.
For more information or special accommodation requests, please contact Stephanie Krell, Public Information Officer, pio@co.wasco.or.us or by phone (541) 993-8173
CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Benton County Planning Commission announces the deadline to submit written testimony in the public hearing on LU-24-027, Republic Services’ application to expand the Coffin Butte Landfill. Reponses to new written evidence that was submitted during the hearings on July 8 and 9 will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Wednesday, July 16.
On July 8, the Benton County Planning Division, consultants and the applicant made presentations to the Planning Commission. The following evening, the Commission heard nearly four hours of verbal testimony from the public. Recordings of both meetings are available on the County’s YouTube channel.
No more presentations or verbal testimony will be heard.
At the conclusion of the meeting on July 9, the Commission recognized requests for a 7-day Responsive Open Record Period. The Responsive Open Record Period is for submission of written evidence, arguments or testimony for the purpose of responding to the new written evidence submitted at the July 8 and 9 hearing. Submissions should not respond to evidence introduced before those dates and should not include evidence that is not limited to responding to the written evidence submitted at the July 8 and 9 hearing.
The schedule of the remaining proceedings is as follows:
On July 11, 2025, Lincoln County Circuit Court Presiding Judge, Sheryl Bachart, sentenced Tucker Todd (47-year-old) to 100 months in the Department of Corrections for raping a 43-year-old woman who had fallen asleep at Don Davis Park the afternoon of July 3, 2024, while visiting Newport for the holiday weekend.
On June 27, 2025, after a three-day trial, a 12-person jury found Todd guilty of Rape in the First Degree and Sexual Abuse in the Second Degree, specifically finding that the victim was unable to consent due to her mental incapacitation and physical helplessness. At trial, evidence demonstrated that Todd, an unhoused individual based out of Corvallis, had taken a bus to Newport, and was camping at Don Davis Park when he found the victim unconscious on the grassy area. At sentencing, the victim stated “Any amount that could be added onto [his sentence] would be a great comfort, slowing his return to the streets. The fact that he showed no compunction in raping me in broad daylight in a public place speaks volumes. He just doesn't care. Maybe prison will change him, but I doubt it. I worry about the next time that he finds some other helpless female and what he might do to her.”
Prior to being sentenced, Todd stated that he could not remember the events of the day in question due to alcohol intoxication and did not agree with the verdict but apologized to the victim for what happened to her. Judge Bachart sentenced Todd to a total of 100 months in the Department of Corrections pursuant to Oregon Ballot Measure 11, which requires mandatory minimum sentences for specific violent crimes including Rape in the First Degree. Todd will not be eligible for any reduction in sentence and will also be required to register as a sex offender upon release from custody. Todd has prior convictions out of Missouri for assault in the third degree, sexual misconduct in the third degree, and failure to register as a sex offender.
This case was prosecuted by District Attorney Jenna Wallace.
On July 10, 2025, Linn County Search and Rescue (SAR) teams located the body of David Winter in the Snow Peak Area after the third continuous day of searching. David was located at the bottom of a 300-foot cliff where SAR personnel were able to retrieve him using a rope system. No foul play is suspected.
Our thoughts are with Mr. Winter’s family during this difficult time. We deeply appreciate the public’s support and the tireless efforts of all the SAR teams, K-9 units, partner agencies, and volunteers who helped in the search.
The following agencies were integral in this operation:
Linn County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue
Lane County Search and Rescue
Albany Police Department
Benton County Sheriff’s Office – Mary’s Peak Search and Rescue
Benton County Sheriff’s Office – Corvallis Mountain Rescue
Marion County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue
Region 3 K9 Search Dogs
Oregon Army National Guard
ROSEBURG, OR – A H.O.P.E. Drug Court participant has partnered with Safe at Home to provide assistance for needed items to help with the family reunification process.
HOPE Drug Court Graduate Supports Family Reunification Through Donation Drive
Rachel Stauffer, a participant in the Douglas County H.O.P.E. Drug Court program, has launched a thoughtful community project aimed at supporting families involved with child welfare reunification. “I chose this project in hope to relieve the burden and help families that are child welfare involved connect during their reunification process. This is important to me because in my experience this process was difficult to navigate. I hope to ease awkwardness and help families bond,” said Stauffer.
Tina Temple, Safe at Home Program Manager, added, “When Family Partner volunteers first meet the families and children they will provide support, it can be uncomfortable for everyone. Family Partners come into the family home and become a part of the Child Welfare journey, and having small toys, games, or other activities helps children connect with the Family Partner. In addition, by providing family games we encourage familial connection where the family can grow together in a healthy and loving way. Safe at Home is thankful, and proud to be supported by Rachel and her HOPE drug court project. Thank you”.
Rachel is collecting items that help create positive, engaging family time, including:
Donation drop-off locations:
Your donations will support families working toward reunification and help children and parents rebuild meaningful connections through play and shared activities.
Support Safe at Home with Red Robin!
Mark your calendars for Tuesday, July 22, 2025 – it’s a special fundraiser day at Red Robin to benefit Safe at Home!
How to Help:
When you do, 20% of your meal proceeds will go directly to Safe at Home, helping provide much-needed program items for those in need.
Red Robin’s local management, long-time supporters of community efforts like the HOPE Drug Court Program, have generously partnered with us once again. Let’s show them how much community support can accomplish!
Eat well, do good — see you at Red Robin on July 22!
About Safe at Home
Safe at Home, located within FARA at 505 SE Main Street, is a local nonprofit dedicated to helping children exit foster care and safely reunify with their families. The program strengthens in-home safety by expanding family support networks during the critical transition period. Typically, families are encouraged to identify friends or relatives who can help monitor the child's safety plan at home. However, many families face challenges such as social isolation, broken relationships, or concerns related to a volunteer’s background check.
That’s where Safe at Home Volunteer Family Partners step in. These trained volunteers monitor in-home child safety plans for families who may not have a strong natural support system. Their role is essential in ensuring that children returning from foster care can thrive in a safe and stable home environment.
To learn more about the program or how to get involved, visit:
www.fara4kids.org/safe-at-home
The Douglas County H.O.P.E. Drug Court is proud to announce its 110th graduation ceremony, taking place on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at 5:15 p.m. at the Douglas County Fairgrounds – Cascade Hall.
Operating under the jurisdiction of the Douglas County Circuit Court and led by the Honorable Judge Robert B. Johnson, the H.O.P.E. Drug Court is a structured, compassionate alternative to traditional incarceration. Its goal is to reduce recidivism, address underlying substance use disorders, and encourage participants to look beyond past criminal behavior to envision a healthier, more promising future.
The program emphasizes personal transformation and long-term recovery, with each phase supporting individuals as they work to rebuild their lives. In the final stage, participants complete Graduate Community Projects—personal initiatives that showcase their growth, social development, and internal shift toward meaningful achievement.
This upcoming graduation marks not only a milestone for the participants but also a celebration of their resilience, accountability, and the power of second chances. Community members are encouraged to attend and show support for those who have worked hard to reclaim their lives.
Graduate flyers are placed on the Douglas County website through the Local Public Safety Coordinating Council (LPSCC) under H.O.P.E. Drug Court, go to https://douglascountyor.gov/851/HOPE-Drug-Court
CORVALLIS, Ore. – A new life jacket loaner station is now available for public use at Irish Bend Park, located northeast of Monroe in Benton County, Oregon, along the Willamette River. This safety initiative was made possible through a partnership between the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Benton County Natural Areas & Parks, and funding support from the Benton Community Foundation.
Life jacket loaner stations like this one are part of a broader effort to improve water safety across Oregon. Stations are located at various parks along the Willamette River and other public waterways through collaborations with the Oregon State Marine Board, Nautical Safety Foundation, local agencies, and nonprofit organizations. In Benton County, stations are located at Michael’s Landing, Crystal Lake Sports Park, and Hyak Park.
Life jackets are required by law for boaters on public waterways and save lives. The loaner program allows community members to borrow a life jacket free of charge and return it after use, helping ensure everyone stays safe while enjoying the water.
Community support keeps this program going. If you would like to contribute, donations of new or gently used life jackets—or monetary donations—are welcome. Checks can be made out to “The Sheriff’s Foundation” (please note “life jackets” in the memo line) and are tax-deductible. Donations can be mailed to, or dropped off at:
Benton County Sheriff’s Office
180 NW 5th Street
Corvallis, OR 97330
Together, we can keep our waterways safer for everyone.
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On Thursday, July 10, at approximately 7:19 p.m., deputies were dispatched to reports of a motor vehicle crash involving a bicyclist near the 2000 block of Delaney Road SE in Salem.
When deputies arrived, they located the involved vehicle, a white Hyundai Accent, and the bicyclist, who had sustained life-threatening injuries. The bicyclist, identified as 46-year-old Jeremy Wanak of Salem, was transported to Salem Hospital, where he later died as a result of his injuries.
The driver of the Hyundai was identified as 28-year-old Damon Johnson of Salem. Following the initial investigation, Johnson was arrested and lodged at the Marion County Jail on the following charges:
Mr. Johnson is scheduled for arraignment today, July 11, at 2:30 p.m. at the Marion County Court Annex.
The roadway was closed for nearly six hours while the Marion County CRASH Team conducted a thorough investigation.
Our hearts go out to the family and loved ones of Jeremy Wanak during this incredibly difficult time.
We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the Marion County CRASH Team, Keizer Police Department, METCOM, WVCC, Marion County Public Works, and Willamette Valley First Responder Chaplaincy Services for their assistance and support during this incident.
On July 1, 2025, Albany Police responded to a report of a missing person. Albany resident, David Winter, age 63, was reported to have left his residence in his vehicle without explanation and had not returned.
On the evening of July 7, 2025, Linn County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle located on Bureau of Land Management land near Snow Peak. The reporting party stated that he had found a vehicle on a secluded logging road and believed it might be associated with a missing person case reported to the Albany Police Department.
Deputies responded and confirmed the vehicle belongs to David Winter. Winter was not with the vehicle when the deputies arrived, and his current whereabouts are unknown. The vehicle has since been returned to the family.
The Linn County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue (SAR) team was activated and has been tirelessly conducting a search operation around the vehicle for the last two days. This is a heavily wooded area, making search efforts difficult. The Linn County SAR team has been assisted by SAR teams from the Lane and Benton County Sheriff’s Offices, Region 3 K9 search units, and the U.S. Army National Guard, which is assisting with aerial searches via helicopter. Unfortunately, Mr. Winter was not located.
Anyone with information about David’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Albany Police Department at 541-917-7680 and reference case number 25-03775.
Albany Police would like to thank the Linn County Sherrif’s Office, the devoted SAR teams, K-9 units and the U.S. Army National Guard for their help in this investigation.
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APPLICANT REVIEW COMMITTEE
MEETING SCHEDULED
The Applicant Review Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez (503) 551-3167.
To view the Applicant Review Committee's live-stream and other recorded videos, please visit DPSST’s official YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.
Amended Agenda Items:
1. Introductions
2. Approve June 25, 2025, Meeting Minutes
3. Cody Ching, DPSST No. 66366; Gresham Police Department
Presented by Cindy Park
4. Manuel Montoya, DPSST No. 66246; DOC/Coffee Creek Correctional Facility
Presented by Cindy Park
5. Inquiry Closure Memos – Information Only
Presented by Cindy Park
6. Next Applicant Review Committee Meeting – August 27, 2025, at 11:00 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 Applicant Review Committee members unless permitted by the Chair. Individuals who engage in disruptive behavior that impedes official business will be asked to stop being disruptive or leave the meeting. Additional measures may be taken to have disruptive individuals removed if their continued presence poses a safety risk to the other persons in the room or makes it impossible to continue the meeting.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 10, 2025
Notice of Virtual Meeting
Douglas County Local Public Safety Coordinating Council (LPSCC)
Monday, July 14, 2025
(Douglas County, Ore.) A special meeting has been called for the Douglas County Local Public Safety Coordinating Council (LPSCC) for Monday, July 14, 2025, at 12:00 pm 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 the meeting via video conference or listen via phone. Members of the public who wish to watch or listen to this meeting can do so by accessing the options listed on the attached agenda. For more information about the LPSCC program click here to access their webpage on the county website at or contact Koree Tate LPSCC Program & Partnership Coordinator 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.
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Program Contact: ee.tate@douglascountyor.gov">Koree Tate | LPSCC Program & Partnership Coordinator | Douglas County Juvenile Department
Phone: (541) 957-7790 | Email: ee.tate@douglascountyor.gov">koree.tate@douglascountyor.gov
Media Contact: Tamara Howell | Douglas County Emergency Communications & Community Engagement Specialist | Public Information Officer | Phone: (541) 957-4896 | Cell: (541) 670-2804 | Email: tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov
Disasters can damage critical infrastructure, leading to temporary outages in cell service, internet, and power. When communication systems go down, it's vital to be prepared with alternate ways to get emergency information and stay connected. Here’s how you can prepare and respond:
If you call 9-1-1 using Wi-Fi calling or a satellite-connected phone (like an iPhone or Android), your location might not be automatically visible to dispatch. Instead, it may rely on the emergency address saved in your phone’s settings.
In rural areas, community bulletin boards or fire stations may serve as local information points.
Support and Restoration in Progress
To help maintain emergency communications during this incident, OEM deployed eight Starlink terminals under the guidance of ESF 2 and the Statewide Interoperability Coordinator (SWIC). A Communications Technician (Jeff Perkins) was also deployed to assess connectivity needs on the ground. These Starlink terminals have been providing service to the Lake County Emergency Operations Center (EOC), Oregon State Police (OSP), Warner Creek Correctional Facility, and will soon support the town of Lakeview, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and the Lakeview Ranger Station. OEM’s Regional Coordinator (Stacey) is also on-site supporting the Lake County EOC. Coordination has been strong across local, state, and private sector partners.
Update: As of 7/10/25 at 1:47 PM, fiber service has been restored.
In an emergency, CALL 9-1-1 to report life-threatening danger, not for general information. Use local non-emergency numbers or go to physical information points if needed. You can find more tips for preparing in OEM’s Be2Weeks Ready toolkit.
ROSEBURG, Ore., July 10, 2025 — Umpqua Community College (UCC) and Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), members of the Oregon Consortium for Nursing Education (OCNE), have announced a new collaboration, establishing a direct-entry pathway to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. The initiative focuses on preparing psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNP) to help address urgent health care clinician shortages in rural Oregon.
Through this streamlined, more cost-effective pathway, students can begin their education at UCC and seamlessly transition to doctoral-level studies through OHSU. Coursework is completed online while clinical learning takes place locally, creating a pathway for licensed, independent practitioners educated to serve within Douglas County.
“This collaboration builds on the OCNE model, removes common barriers like relocation and the associated costs, allowing students to stay local while earning advanced nursing degrees,” said Danielle Haskett, chief academic officer for UCC. “By training future providers who are already rooted in the region, we’re strengthening health care delivery and building a more sustainable workforce for our region.”
Clinician shortages, geographic location and an aging population impact access to care, especially rural communities, and this new pathway aims to help address this challenge. Nurse practitioners, with their nursing and advanced clinical training, are licensed to provide essential primary care services for general medicine and psychiatric care, including diagnosis, treatment, preventive and continuous care treatment plans.
The program expands UCC’s portfolio of health care education options and creates a pathway for students to receive hands-on training on UCC’s campus using the latest advanced training technologies. Students will complete the online baccalaureate in nursing and then be admitted to the PMHNP Distance Program, which is primarily online, with the flexibility to attend a few in-person lab components at an OHSU campus.
“We are excited to collaborate with UCC on this forward-thinking initiative,” said OHSU Executive Vice President and Provost Marie Chisholm-Burns, Pharm.D., Ph.D., M.P.H., M.B.A., FCCP, FASHP, FAST, FNAP, FACHE. “This collaboration reflects OHSU’s commitment to increasing access to high-quality, advanced nursing education across Oregon. By reaching students where they live and enabling them to complete meaningful clinical experiences in their home communities, we are helping grow a local, resilient health care workforce prepared to meet the diverse needs of rural populations.”
About Oregon Health & Science University
Oregon Health & Science University is Oregon's academic health center and is nationally distinguished as a research university dedicated solely to advancing health sciences. This singular purpose allows us to focus on discoveries that prevent and cure disease, on education that prepares physicians, dentists, nurses and other health professionals for the evolving health care environment, and on patient care that incorporates the latest advances. We are one of Oregon’s largest employers, operating top-ranked adult and children’s hospitals, and secure competitive research funding of more than $584 million. As a public organization, we also provide services for the most vulnerable Oregonians and outreach to improve health in communities across the state.
About Umpqua Community College
Nestled in the beautiful North Umpqua River Valley, Umpqua Community College is the regional center for higher education in Douglas County, Oregon. UCC provides high quality college degree programs, workforce development, and community learning opportunities. For more information, please visit us online at www.umpqua.edu
Lincoln County, OR — The Lincoln County Fire Defense Board has mobilized a specialized wildfire Task Force to assist in battling the Elk Fire, currently burning in Klamath County. The deployment was made at the request of the Oregon State Fire Marshal (OSFM) as part of the state’s coordinated wildfire response under the Emergency Conflagration Act.
The Task Force 26 departed Lincoln County late Wednesday afternoon, July 9, expected to arrive at staging by 9:00 PM tonight and, includes personnel and equipment from the following agencies:
• Depoe Bay Fire District
• North Lincoln Fire & Rescue
• Central Oregon Coast Fire & Rescue
• East Lincoln County Fire & Rescue • Siletz Valley Fire District
• Clackamas County Fire District
The Elk Fire, sparked by dry lightning earlier this week, has burned thousands of acres in southern Oregon, prompting multiple evacuation notices and drawing a significant response from state and local fire agencies. Firefighters are working around the clock to protect lives, property, and critical infrastructure.
The Task Force includes a strike team of engines, command personnel, and support staff, with an initial deployment period of up to 14 days, subject to fire conditions and resource needs.
This mobilization is part of Oregon’s Mutual Aid System, which ensures timely support between counties and regions during large-scale incidents.
[Rowena, Ore.] – As residents return to areas impacted by the Rowena Fire, safety remains a top priority. The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), and Wasco County strongly recommend property owners not perform cleanup themselves, because of the serious toxic hazard threats posed by burned homes and outbuildings.
Doing your own cleanup without proper protection puts your health at risk. Burned materials are hazardous and require more than gloves and a mask to protect your health. Buildings constructed before 2004 are likely to contain asbestos, which is carcinogenic.
If residents do decide to do their own clean-up rather than hiring a qualified contractor, they should wear appropriate personal protective equipment.
See Oregon Health Authority’s Long-Term Wildfire Recovery Healthy Home Advice Fact Sheet for more detailed information.
The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is providing technical assistance and coordinating with subject matter experts to support safe debris management. Guidance on proper cleanup procedures and disposal of fire debris can be found at: https://www.oregon.gov/deq
Local recovery and safety resources are also available through Wasco County Emergency Management Long-term Recovery page.
Residents are encouraged to sign up for Wasco County Citizen Alert for the latest updates on recovery, road access, and support services.
For more information on state-led wildfire recovery and preparedness efforts, visit:
wildfire.oregon.gov
Salem, OR – 07/10/2025 – Families enrolling children in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in Oregon can now choose between the Standard English Book Collection and the new Bilingual English/Spanish Book Collection. They can also select their preferred language for communication during the enrollment process.
In June, families already enrolled in the Imagination Library received an email announcing the new Bilingual English/Spanish book collection option, along with instructions on how to make the switch. Books from the new collection are expected to begin arriving in mailboxes in August.
“Regardless of the language a child knows, the joy of reading should be available for every young learner,” Governor Kotek said. “The expansion of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library with a bilingual book collection throws the door open to that opportunity much wider. This will help improve our literacy outcomes and make sure every Oregon student, regardless of where they live or where they come from, has the opportunity to develop a love of reading before they ever step into a classroom."
The introduction of the Bilingual Collection has been eagerly anticipated since the statewide expansion of the Imagination Library launched in May of 2024. Thanks to funding from the State of Oregon, through the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC), and 57 community organizations around the state, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is free for all families with children from birth to age five and available in all counties in Oregon.
“Literacy is not confined to a single language—it is nurtured through the languages children speak at home, the stories they hear, and the books they read with their families,” said Alyssa Chatterjee, DELC Director. “By offering culturally responsive and bilingual books, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Program honors the richness of every child’s linguistic and cultural identity. The addition of a Spanish language book option means more families will have access to stories in the language that connects generations. I’m thrilled knowing that for those who choose this option, bilingual books will soon arrive in their mailbox—opening doors to literacy, learning, and a lifelong love of reading.”
Introducing books to children at an early age not only sets the stage to foster a love of reading, it also prepares them to be successful in school and life. The new bilingual collection will enable the Imagination Library to connect with more children and families across the state, significantly broadening the positive literacy impacts for young Oregonians by helping more children build personal libraries than ever before.
“Every child should grow up with stories that reflect their language, culture, and identity. Multilingual kids have a superpower that we should nurture and celebrate,” emphasized Representative Ben Bowman, Chief Sponsor of the legislation that made the statewide expansion of the Imagination Library in Oregon a reality. “This new bilingual collection shows our state’s commitment to making sure every child has the tools to learn, grow, and thrive.”
The Bilingual Collection was first piloted in California in 2023 and rolled-out to five more states in 2024. Oregon is excited to be among the 16 states added in 2025. States that now have access to the Bilingual Collection include Alabama, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Missouri, Montana, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Tennessee, Washington, and West Virginia. For a full list of the 2025 bilingual book collection visit imaginationlibrary.com/usa/book-list.
The Imagination Library of Oregon is free to families. Children can be registered as early as birth to receive new, high-quality, age-appropriate books addressed to them in the mail each month until their fifth birthday. To learn more or to enroll your child, visit www.imaginationlibrary.com/oregon. For the latest Oregon specific content, follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
About Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
Since launching in 1995, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has become the preeminent early childhood book-gifting program in the world. The flagship program of The Dollywood Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has gifted over 280 million free books in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, and The Republic of Ireland. This is achieved through funding shared by The Dollywood Foundation and Local Community and State Partners. The Imagination Library mails more than 3 million high-quality, age-appropriate books directly to children’s homes each month. Each child enrolled in the program receives one book per month from birth to age five - at no cost to families. Dolly envisioned creating a lifelong love of reading and inspiring children to Dream More, Learn More, Care More, Be More.
The program’s impact has been widely researched, and results demonstrate its positive impact on early childhood development and literacy skills. Penguin Random House is the exclusive publisher of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. For more information, please visit imaginationlibrary.com.
As temperatures rise and the risk of heat illness in the workplace increases, the Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) reminds employers to follow requirements designed to help protect workers from the hazards of extreme heat. The division offers free resources to help employers comply with requirements.
Under Oregon’s heat illness prevention rule, employers must implement protective measures, including adequate water, rest, shade, acclimatization (gradual adaptation to working in the heat), communication and training, and emergency plans. The rule applies to workplaces whenever an employee is working and the heat index equals or exceeds 80 degrees Fahrenheit. More provisions apply when the heat index exceeds 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
“Employers need to take the dangers of high heat seriously by planning ahead, engaging their employees about the hazards, and following the heat rule’s provisions,” said Renée Stapleton, administrator for Oregon OSHA.
The heat illness prevention requirements apply across industries and where employers provide housing as a condition of employment. Under the Oregon Safe Employment Act, workers have a right to a safe and healthy workplace and the right to raise concerns free of retaliation. Under the law, employers must maintain safe and healthy working conditions.
Oregon OSHA urges employers to refresh their knowledge of the requirements:
All heat illness prevention resources are available on Oregon OSHA's A-to-Z topic index page. They include a video training in English and Spanish that satisfies certain training elements of the heat rule.
Oregon OSHA also offers:
Consultation services – provides free and confidential help with safety and health programs, including how to control and eliminate hazards, and hands-on training. The services involve no fault, no citations, and no penalties.
Technical staff – helps employers understand requirements and how to apply them to their worksites
The Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services, which includes Oregon OSHA as a division, maintains the Multicultural Communications Program that provides outreach to communities with limited English proficiency. That outreach encompasses information about on-the-job safety and health.
The Ombuds Office for Oregon Workers provides help with understanding workplace safety and health rights, and workers’ compensation rights.
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About Oregon OSHA: Oregon OSHA enforces the state's workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit osha.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.
SALEM, Oregon—Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is creating a rulemaking advisory committee to discuss possible changes to sound and equipment standards to All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) use on public lands in Oregon.
House Bill 2232 was signed on March 19, 2025 and became effective upon passage. The bill transfers rulemaking responsibility for ATV safety equipment and noise emissions from Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) and Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD).
State parks has temporarily adopted ODOT and DEQ’s rules for 180 days under ORS 183.335(5)(a). OPRD is in the process of reviewing the previous rules and developing permanent rules.
The current rules on noise emissions vary by type of vehicle. Requests have been made for a reduced sound limit in Oregon.
Many states use 96 dBA (decibels measured using the A-weighting scale) tested at 20 inches from the exhaust at a 45-degree angle at half RPM (revolutions per minute).
The proposed changes would update definitions for ATVs and look at other safety equipment standards. The committee will meet online 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 16, 2025 to review and discuss the proposed rule changes. The meetings are open to the public and can be viewed at: https://www.youtube.com/@oprddirectorsoffice5783/streams
The meeting agenda will include discussions to review sound levels and flag requirements to be consistent with other states. Committee members, appointed by OPRD, include individuals from around the state who are members of the off-road community, law enforcement, land managers and impacted neighbors.
After the committee reviews the proposed changes and staff make updates based on feedback and recommendations, the proposed rule will be open for public comment in August 2025. More information about this rulemaking is available on the OPRD website: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/pages/PRP-rulemaking.aspx
Individuals who require special accommodations to view the meetings should contact Ian Caldwell, at least three days in advance of a meeting at ian.caldwell@oprd.oregon.gov
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed Friday, June 27, by ODVA Director Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels and Tribal Council Chairman Delores Pigsley, with Tribal government leaders and representatives, Tribal veterans and ODVA staff gathered to commemorate the historic partnership. The formal signing was hosted at ODVA’s headquarters in Salem.
The agreement will pave the way for the establishment of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians’ first Tribal Veterans Service Officer (TVSO), which will be jointly funded by ODVA and the Tribe to serve Siletz veterans and their families.
“Oregon’s Tribal veterans have long served with honor and distinction, and it is our responsibility to ensure they receive the care and recognition they have earned,” said Dr. Daniels. “By partnering with the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, we are committing to a future where Siletz veterans are served in a way that honors their stories, their service, and their sovereign identity. We’re proud to walk alongside the Tribe in building something that will truly make a difference in the lives of their veterans and families.”
“I am excited for the future of our honored Tribal veterans and the opportunity this brings to them,” said Chairman Pigsley. “Not only to support them but to help advocate for them. This memorandum with the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is more than a collaboration or a partnership. It’s a commitment to honoring and empowering those who have served our nation. Their deep-rooted connection to the veteran community and unwavering dedication to their well-being make them a trusted and invaluable partner.”
This Memorandum of Understanding is ODVA’s sixth with Oregon’s nine federally recognized Tribes, including the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians and, most recently, the Coquille Indian Tribe in May.
Oregon’s statewide network of County and Tribal Veteran Service Offices are collaborative partnerships between the state and counties, or Tribal governments and deliver free local access to veteran benefits for veterans and their families.
Tribal Veteran Service Officers (TVSOs) are trained by ODVA and then accredited by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs through a series of regular trainings facilitated by both agencies. TVSOs provide a wide variety of benefits and services to veterans and their family members, including the development and submission of claims to the federal VA for earned veteran benefits.
To learn more about veteran benefits, resources and services near you, or to schedule a session with your local Veteran Service Officer, visit the website of the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs at www.oregon.gov/odva/Services/Pages/Tribal-Veteran-Services.aspx.
Established in 1945, the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is dedicated to serving Oregon’s diverse veteran community that spans five eras of service members. ODVA administers programs and provides special advocacy and assistance in accessing earned veteran benefits across the state. Learn about veteran benefits and services, or locate a local county or tribal veteran service office online at oregon.gov/odva.
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SUMMER CRIME PREVENTION TIPS
Summer brings warmer weather, longer days, outdoor activities and, unfortunately, an increase in theft and burglaries. There are some ways you can help prevent these crimes in your communities.
• Keep vehicles locked with the windows up at all times, even when parked at home. Remove all valuables including purses, cell phones, laptop computers, gym bags, briefcases etc.
• Avoid Home Improvement scams. Beware of anyone offering to perform an unscheduled home repair or asking to gain entry into your home. Ask for identification, contact the company they say they work for to verify employment and ask for authorization for them to be at your property. Never agree to pay for home improvement services until the work has been completed. Don’t sign home improvement contracts without reading the entire contract carefully and discussing anything that isn’t clear with the company and trusted family members or friends.
• Keep doors closed and locked. This includes garages, sheds and patio doors. Burglaries from open garages, sheds and residences are more prevalent in summer months and often occur while the homeowner is outside in the backyard.
• Unattended bicycles should always be locked to something sturdy. Remember when you stop to rest, eat, or use restroom facilities, to take a few moments to secure your bicycle.
• Vacation plans? Have a trusted neighbor or friend pick up your mail. Set inside lights on a timer. Set your home alarm. Use a home security camera so you can check in while you are away. Have a neighbor keep an eye on your house and make sure to leave a contact phone number for them to reach you in case of an emergency.
Taking some simple steps now and throughout the summer months can reduce the risk of crime in your neighborhood.
For more information and tips visit our website at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and like us on Facebook at Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon.
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Last Friday, President Donald Trump signed the federal budget reconciliation bill—H.R. 1— into law. H.R. 1 extends tax cuts that were set to expire at the end of 2025, reduces federal food assistance, cuts funding for state Medicaid programs, and institutes policies that are likely to reduce Medicaid coverage.
The legislation’s deep cuts and profound structural changes to Medicaid will drive new conversations about the future of Oregon’s health care system. In the coming days, weeks, and months, we must move forward together to shape a health care landscape in this state that will be dramatically different from the one we know today.
It is likely that you or someone you know is on Medicaid. One in three Oregonians has Medicaid (called the Oregon Health Plan) as their health insurance. If you aren’t one of those Oregonians, you might think the health care provisions in this bill won’t affect you. But Medicaid policy and budget choices matter to us all, because the health care system is propped up on a shaky foundation that blends private payments with government funding. When Medicaid falters, the structure begins to shake, risking the collapse of the entire system.
Oregon is particularly vulnerable. For years, Oregon has intentionally maximized federal dollars to help fund the Medicaid program and expand insurance coverage. Now, with federal funding slashed, our health care system—already burdened by prescriptive and burdensome regulations, rising expenses, and payment that has not kept up with the cost of care—is at serious risk.
Oregon's health care system cannot absorb the cuts in H.R. 1 without significant disruption, and the results may be painful: service cuts, hospital and facility closures, longer wait times, and reduced access to insurance. As a state, we have hard choices to make. Now is the time for leadership.
Some observations:
The decisions we face are wrenching. But health care stakeholders and policymakers now have an obligation to come together to navigate this new world. That will mean shared commitment and shared sacrifice. But perhaps, in this moment, we can redesign our broken system and find a better path forward.
Last Friday, President Donald Trump signed the federal budget reconciliation bill—H.R. 1— into law. H.R. 1 extends tax cuts that were set to expire at the end of 2025, reduces federal food assistance, cuts funding for state Medicaid programs, and institutes policies that are likely to reduce Medicaid coverage.
The legislation’s deep cuts and profound structural changes to Medicaid will drive new conversations about the future of Oregon’s health care system. In the coming days, weeks, and months, we must move forward together to shape a health care landscape in this state that will be dramatically different from the one we know today.
It is likely that you or someone you know is on Medicaid. One in three Oregonians has Medicaid (called the Oregon Health Plan) as their health insurance. If you aren’t one of those Oregonians, you might think the health care provisions in this bill won’t affect you. But Medicaid policy and budget choices matter to us all, because the health care system is propped up on a shaky foundation that blends private payments with government funding. When Medicaid falters, the structure begins to shake, risking the collapse of the entire system.
Oregon is particularly vulnerable. For years, Oregon has intentionally maximized federal dollars to help fund the Medicaid program and expand insurance coverage. Now, with federal funding slashed, our health care system—already burdened by prescriptive and burdensome regulations, rising expenses, and payment that has not kept up with the cost of care—is at serious risk.
Oregon's health care system cannot absorb the cuts in H.R. 1 without significant disruption, and the results may be painful: service cuts, hospital and facility closures, longer wait times, and reduced access to insurance. As a state, we have hard choices to make. Now is the time for leadership.
Some observations:
The decisions we face are wrenching. But health care stakeholders and policymakers now have an obligation to come together to navigate this new world. That will mean shared commitment and shared sacrifice. But perhaps, in this moment, we can redesign our broken system and find a better path forward.
SALEM, Ore. – A single spark can change everything, and stopping a fire before it has a chance to impact communities can change lives. Community risk reduction through education, prevention, and proactive outreach is at the heart of this work. Many Oregonians rely on their local fire agency or community members to help prevent fires and share life-saving knowledge. Each year, the Oregon State Fire Marshal recognizes two individuals or agencies that champion fire prevention education with the Golden and Silver Sparky Awards.
Golden Sparky Award recipient Charlie Lesiecki, a volunteer firefighter at Central Coast Fire & Rescue District, was recognized for his years of volunteer service and leadership in fire prevention. He leads his district’s smoke alarm program, supports safety inspections, and helps property owners reduce wildfire risk. As safety committee chair, he ensures facilities meet OSHA standards. His creative outreach and hands-on efforts have made a lasting impact across the community.
Silver Sparky Award recipients from the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District Fire Corps consist of a team of nearly 50 dedicated volunteers who have served the communities of Sisters and Camp Sherman with extraordinary energy and care since 2015. The fire corps has set the standard for community risk reduction. Over the past year, they trained 171 people in lifesaving skills, completed 82 smoke alarm calls, conducted 170 wildland home assessments, and supported firefighters during emergencies. They’ve reached hundreds through safety events, school programs, and holiday efforts, building a stronger, safer community every step of the way.
The sparky awards have been given annually since 1977. The golden sparky recognizes a fire service member or fire agency and the silver sparky recognizes a civilian or a civilian agency. This is the highest state fire service honor given by the Oregon State Fire Mashal. To see past award recipients and their work, check out the state fire marshal’s sparky award webpage.
About the Oregon State Fire Marshal
The Oregon State Fire Marshal became an independent state agency in July 2023. The agency is dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The OSFM works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office.
The Oregon Military Museum will host a ribbon cutting ceremony in celebration of the museum’s grand re-opening, July 11, at 9:30 a.m., on Camp Withycombe in Clackamas, Ore.
The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided following the ceremony.
“We are here to honor service members and to educate the public about their service,” said Kathleen Sligar, director and curator for the Oregon Military Museum. “I am so excited to see the looks on people’s faces, I think they’re going to be blown away when they walk into this space.
The exhibit galleries will be open until 12:30 p.m. for a first look at the museum’s four new exhibits:
• We Are Oregon – Explore the people, technology, and actions that define Oregon’s military legacy on the local, national, and global stage
• Small Arms, Big Impact – A curated collection of nearly 200 American, enemy, and ally small arms from the 1600s into the 21st century
• History in Art – Discover artwork by and about the US Armed Forces, their provenance, and the contextual knowledge found within
• Hall of Valor – A commemoration of the thirteen Medal of Honor recipients accredited to Oregon
The Oregon Military Museum has been closed for renovations since 2009 and will officially be open to the public Saturday, July 12.
Starting Wednesday, July 16, the museum will be open year-round, Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The Historic Park will also be open Fridays and Saturdays through September.
The Oregon Military Museum honors, shares, and preserves Oregon’s military heritage and legacy, including the Oregon National Guard, the state’s early militias, and all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, July 10, 2025
BEND, OR — As the sun goes down, creatures begin to stir. Moths begin their nightly pollination journey. Owls glide silently through the trees on the hunt for prey. Stars blink to life as bats dip and dive for insects. On Wednesday, July 16, the High Desert Museum invites visitors to celebrate the transition from day to night in the family-friendly event, Welcome the Night.
From 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm, go on a twilight adventure with community partners, Museum experts and local naturalists to learn about insects and bats, meet an owl and much more. The evening program encourages visitors to explore, experience and celebrate the creatures, both small and large, that thrive in the dark.
As visitors arrive, they are handed an adventure card and map that will navigate them through 17 stations located around the Museum. Visitors can get a stamp at each location before turning the card in for a chance at a raffle prize.
Inside the Museum, visitors begin their journey at the station of their choice. At the Winged Things Crafts station, kids can make moth or bat headbands before heading outside to the Meadow to play a Bat & Moth game. The Twilight Art Station invites visitors young and old to create stenciled twilight art using scratch paper. A local face painter leads a station where visitors can get their faces painted with the twilight creature of their choice.
In the Desertarium, retired entomologist Dr. Jerry Freilich will share with visitors a vast collection of insects and the opportunity to see them magnified.
When it’s time for a bite to eat, the Rimrock Café will be transformed into the Crepuscular Café, featuring food for purchase by Luckey’s Woodsman. A no-host bar will feature alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages.
Just outside the Desertarium, at the Red Light Green Light station, volunteers and Museum staff help visitors transition their flashlights and headlamps into night-friendly lights. The adventure continues outdoors as visitors explore the Museum trails.
At Cheney Pond, experts from the U.S. Forest Service will lead a Bat Detectives station that delves into the mystery of bats and their role in the High Desert ecosystem. Learn why bats dip and dive over water and get a closer look at how bat telemetry helps researchers track the movements and behavior of bats.
Nearby, representatives from Pollinator Pathway Bend will take visitors into the world of nighttime pollinators, such as moths, at the Pollination Station. Discover why moths are often attracted to light sources, artificial or natural, which cause them to become disoriented.
“Nocturnal wildlife thrive in a dark habitat free from light pollution,” said Donald M. Kerr Curator of Natural History Hayley Brazier, Ph.D. “Conserving dark skies is critical for nocturnal and crepuscular wildlife who depend on a dark nighttime habitat to survive.”
As soon as the light dims and the sun hides behind the ponderosas, experts from Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory will open the telescopes. At this station, you can learn about the planets and galaxy as you gaze up into the twilight waiting for that first star to blink to life. DarkSky Oregon continues with a closer look at how light pollution affects not only our view of the stars but also the health and wellbeing of nocturnal wildlife.
Two owl encounters will take place at the E. L. Wiegand Pavilion in the Donald M. Kerr Birds of Prey Center. During the 15-minute encounters, visitors will learn from Museum wildlife staff how an owl hunts in the daytime and at night, using its large eyes and keen sense of hearing to surprise prey.
Another stop on the adventure is the Forest at Night exhibition. Located within the Changing Forest pavilion, visitors will encounter animated representations of the High Desert’s nocturnal inhabitants on a large screen. Discover how animals with reflective eyes utilize moonlight to navigate and hunt. Gaze up at an interactive star map and explore the constellations that guide migratory birds. Learn more about the exhibition at highdesertmuseum.org/forest-at-night.
Tickets for Welcome the Night are $10 for adults and children ages 3 and older, with a 20% discount for members. Children 2 and younger are free. Visitors are encouraged to bring headlamps or flashlights as the outdoor trails are unlit.
Learn more about and get tickets for Welcome the Night at highdesertmuseum.org/welcome-the-night-2025.
ABOUT THE MUSEUM:
THE HIGH DESERT MUSEUM opened in Bend, Oregon in 1982. It brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate, was the 2019 recipient of the Western Museums Association’s Charles Redd Award for Exhibition Excellence and was a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. To learn more, visit highdesertmuseum.org and follow us on TikTok, Facebook and Instagram.
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Salem, OR— With the halfway point of the income tax filing extension period approaching, the Oregon Department of Revenue wants to remind taxpayers who haven’t yet filed their 2024 tax return to do so as soon as they can.
“July 15 may be just the halfway point of the extension period, but for most people who haven’t yet filed their tax year 2024 return there’s no reason not to file now,” said Department of Revenue Director David Gerstenfeld.
Some people may not have filed because they didn’t have money to pay what they owe, but an extension to file is not an extension to pay any tax owed. Those who didn’t file and haven’t paid are only racking up additional late payment penalties and interest by waiting.
“Even if they can’t pay the full amount they owe, they should pay what they can as soon as they can to help lower penalties and interest,” the director said. “For those who can’t pay all they owe, filing a return offers them the opportunity to set up a payment plan with the state.”
Besides not being able to pay, people file for an extension for all kinds of reasons. Some are waiting on additional information or documents. Others are experiencing hardship in the days before the deadline and have to direct their attention elsewhere. Some people just put it off or forget.
“Whatever the reason, as soon as they have what they need, they should file,” Gerstenfeld said.
For some taxpayers, filing can mean receiving a refund.
Several free filing options and in-person tax assistance options remain available during the summer months.
One of those options is Direct File Oregon. More than 13,000 Oregon taxpayers filed their state returns with Direct File Oregon this year. Nearly 4,700 of those filers connected to Direct File Oregon after first filing their federal returns through IRS Direct File, which is still available through the end of the filing season.
So far in 2025, the department has processed more than 2.05 million of an expected 2.2 million returns. That leaves approximately 150,000 Oregon taxpayers who still need to file their tax year 2024 returns.
“Some tax situations are complex and require extra time—even months—to prepare, but most aren’t,” he said. “Filing as soon as you can makes good sense. It can save money and provide some peace of mind.”
Taxpayers with questions can call 800-356-4222 toll-free from an Oregon prefix (English or Spanish) or 503-378-4988 in Salem and outside Oregon. For TTY (hearing or speech impaired), the department accepts all relay calls.
The Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries (OCHC) will meet in Grand Ronde at the Chachalu Museum and Cultural Center, and via online meeting on July 24 at 9:00 a.m. The agenda includes discussion of the National Register of Historic Places and a presentation on the 2024 historic cemeteries grant projects. The meeting is open to the public and the agenda includes an opportunity for public comment. Meeting information is on the agenda or you can follow this link to register for online access information.
State law established the seven-member Commission to maintain a listing of all historic cemeteries and gravesites in Oregon; promote public education on the significance of historic cemeteries; and help obtain financial and technical assistance for restoring, improving and maintaining their appearances. For more information about commission activities, contact coordinator Kuri Gill at 503-986-0685 or by e-mail at i.gill@oprd.oregon.gov">kuri.gill@oprd.oregon.gov.
Special accommodations for the meeting – including translation services – may be made by calling (503) 986‐0609 or erly.Spivey@oprd.oregon.gov">Kimberly.Spivey@oprd.oregon.gov at least 72 hours prior to the start of the meeting. For call-in details and the agenda or more information about the commission, visit www.oregonheritage.org.
Waste Wise Lane County, a part of Lane County Waste Management, is excited to announce a new initiative to bring free repair services to rural communities through “Fix-It Booths.”
Residents near Cottage Grove, Florence, and Oakridge can now bring their broken household items to scheduled events and work with volunteer fixers to get them repaired—free of charge.
The booths will run from now through early fall.
Unlike larger Fix-It Fairs, which feature multiple repair experts at a single event, the Fix-It Booth model will offer a single fixer at a time, allowing for more frequent repair opportunities. This approach ensures rural communities have ongoing access to repair services, reducing waste and saving residents money.
Event Details
Since 2023, Lane County has hosted five Fix-It Fairs, serving hundreds of residents and diverting countless items from landfills. However, rural communities have expressed a need for more frequent repair opportunities. The new Rural Fix-It Booth Project addresses this gap by providing consistent, accessible repair services where they’re needed most.
“We’re thrilled to expand our repair services through this innovative model,” said Jeff Orlandini, Waste Management Division manager. “By setting up at local markets and events, we can help more people fix instead of replace, keeping usable items out of the waste stream and supporting sustainable habits.”
In addition to the Fix-It Booths, Lane County will also host a traditional Fix-It Fair in Springfield later this year on September 21.
For more information, visit FixItLaneCounty.org/calendar or follow Waste Wise Lane County on social media.
About Waste Wise Lane County
Waste Wise Lane County—a part of the Lane County Waste Management Division—empowers residents, schools, and businesses with education, tools, and resources that can be used to reduce waste, conserve resources, and live more sustainably. For more information, visit lanecountyor.gov/wastewise.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 9, 2025
(Douglas County, Ore.) Douglas County Commissioners Tim Freeman, Tom Kress, and Chris Boice issued a proclamation today at their Weekly Business Meeting calling upon all citizens of Douglas County to observe July 7-13, 2025, as "Firefighter Appreciation Week" in Douglas County. The proclamation was presented by Commissioner Boice, on behalf of the Board and acknowledged that, “We recognize that firefighters are dedicated public servants who place themselves in harm’s way to protect the lives, property, and wellbeing of our communities. These brave men and women respond to emergencies with courage and professionalism, facing dangers such as fire, hazardous materials, medical crises, and natural disasters. Firefighters not only respond to emergencies but also work tirelessly to prevent them through education, training, community outreach, and fire safety programs. We recognize the physical, mental, and emotional demands of this honorable profession, and express deep gratitude for the commitment and sacrifice of every firefighter, past and present.” A copy of the live video presentation can be found on the Douglas County Government Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/DouglasCountyeGovernment.
This week the Commissioners celebrated the men and women of Douglas County that have chosen to serve others in the firefighting profession, whether they are career, volunteer, wildland, or structural firefighters or chief officers, company officers, battalion chiefs, engineers, lieutenants, captains, fire marshals, public information officers, those cross-trained as EMTs and paramedics, or fire office personnel. Following the reading of the proclamation, Commissioner Freeman asked to take a few minutes to honor our fallen firefighters.
“We also dedicate today to the memory of our fallen firefighters who selflessly gave their lives for our communities. We do this to honor them and make sure that they are never forgotten! We researched lists of fallen firefighters from local agencies, as well as from state and national archives. We were able to locate the names and respective agencies for 19 fallen firefighters from Douglas County dating back to 1951.” – CommissionerFreeman
Chief Michael Lane from Sutherlin Fire Department and Chief Tyler Christopherson from Roseburg Fire Department were invited to the podium to present the Fireman’s Prayer, recite the names of our 19 fallen firefighters from Douglas County and present the “Last Alarm” poem followed by a 200-year-old tradition of sounding a bell. Chief Christopherson read the Fireman’s Prayer, followed by an emotional reading of the 19 fallen firefighter’s names, agencies and year of passing by Chief Lane. As firefighter tradition notes, it is customary that the ‘Last Alarm’ be sounded for our firefighting brothers and sisters who paid the supreme sacrifice. For having selflessly given their lives for the good of their fellow man, their tasks completed, their duties well done, to signify, they are “returning to quarters.” Following the reading of the “Last Alarm,” Chief Christopherson ceremoniously rang the bell five rings, three times each in honor of our local fallen firefighters. The “Last Alarm” was written by Jim Martinez. He was a long-time member of the International Association of Fire Fighters. We would like to thank Chief Lane and Chief Christopherson for helping us honor our fallen fire heroes. Commissioner Freeman then asked for a moment of silence to remember the 19 fallen firefighters.
Douglas County Fallen Firefighters:
Jerry Bain - Douglas Forest Protective Association - 1951
Roy W. McFarland - Roseburg Fire Department, Roseburg - 1959
John J. Richards - Douglas Forest Protective Association - 1961
Richard Underhill - Douglas Forest Protective Association - 1979
Elwin I. King - Fair Oaks Fire Department, Sutherlin - 1984
Mark Giles - Douglas Forest Protective Association - 1987
James Moore - Douglas Forest Protective Association - 1987
Russell Brine - Elkton Rural Fire District, Elkton - 1987
Julius C. Starr - USDA Forest Service, Roseburg Office - 1990
Clark N. Gilkison - Fair Oaks Fire Department, Sutherlin - 1991
Rob Johnson - Prineville Hot Shots (South Canyon Fire, Colorado) - 1994
Paul E. Gibson - First Strike Environmental, Roseburg - ODF Contractor - 2003
David Kelly Hammer - First Strike Environmental, Roseburg - ODF Contractor - 2003
Jeffrey D. Hengel - First Strike Environmental, Roseburg - ODF Contractor - 2003
Jesse D. James - First Strike Environmental, Roseburg - ODF Contractor - 2003
Richard Burt Moore II - First Strike Environmental, Roseburg – ODF Contractor - 2003
Leland ‘David’ Price Jr. - First Strike Environmental, Roseburg – ODF Contractor - 2003
Mark Robert Ransdell - First Strike Environmental, Roseburg – ODF Contractor - 2003
Ricardo M. Ruiz - First Strike Environmental, Roseburg – ODF Contractor - 2003
Commissioner Tim Freeman presented Firefighter Appreciation Weekproclamation certificates to firefighters and fire personnel from:
In 2017, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation created Light the Night for Fallen Firefighters, to recognize Fallen Firefighters. As a gesture of support and honor we have asked that the exterior lights of the Douglas County Courthouse be turned RED from July 1-13, as a tribute to the 19 fallen Douglas County firefighters, their families, and ALL fallen fire heroes across our great nation.
This proclamation is a reminder to our citizens to take the time to thank ourfire heroes, past and present, who, by their faithful and loyal devotion to their profession, have rendered immeasurable service to their communities.
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Media Contact:Tamara Howell, Emergency Communications & Community Engagement Specialist, Douglas County Public Affairs Office | Office: (541) 957-4896 | Cell: (541) 670-2804 | Email: a.howell@douglascountyor.gov">tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov
Photo Credit: K.Tate/Douglas County
On Wednesday, July 9, at approximately 1:50 p.m., deputies received several 911 calls reporting a brush fire near Gath Road and Barcelona Road, just off Turner Road. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
The fire quickly spread through a field and reached a nearby building. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) was notified at 1:51 p.m. and responded to assist with road closures as the fire grew. Turner Road at Gath Road and Gath Road at Witzel Road were both shut down. The roads remain closed, and emergency personnel will remain on scene until it is safe to leave.
Level 2 and Level 3 evacuation notices were issued to nearby properties. As of 6:55 p.m. this evening, fire personnel are still on scene mopping up the fire. The Level 3 evacuation remains in effect from Turner Road to Rising Iris Lane and from Turner Road to Barcelona Drive. The Level 2 evacuation notice has been lifted.
One firefighter was injured during the response; their condition is unknown at this time.
We would like to thank Emery & Sons Construction for their assistance in managing the brush and fire line. We also extend our gratitude to the Salem Fire Department, Salem Police Department, Oregon State Police, Marion County Fire District, Turner Fire District, and other supporting agencies for their swift and coordinated response. Special thanks as well to WVCC and METCOM for their support.