TYEE, Ore. – A Drain couple perished in a rollover motor vehicle accident on Weyerhaeuser timber company property west of Tyee sometime in the early morning hours of Saturday, May 24, 2025. Douglas County Search and Rescue volunteers assisted in recovering the remains from the hillside Sunday morning.

Douglas County 9-1-1 was alerted to the accident at about 5 pm Saturday via satellite assisted Text-to-911. The texter, who had been scouting prior to bear hunting season, said two people had been spotted from a distance on a very steep embankment in the Brush Creek area and they both appeared deceased.

Deputies from Douglas County Sheriff’s Office responded to the area and located marks in the roadway consistent with a westbound vehicle leaving BLM road 24-8-35 1 and rolling down the hill.

Using ropes, deputies traversed the embankment and located the bodies of Anthony W. Forbes, 55, and Mandi S. Forbes, 50 about 215 feet down from the roadway. Records indicate the Forbes’ were married and both lived in Drain.

Their vehicle, a 1986 Suzuki Samuri, continued to roll past where the Forbes’ had been ejected. It eventually came to rest, heavily damaged, about 500 feet from the roadway in a small ravine.

Search and Rescue volunteers and members of Central Douglas Fire and Rescue’s Steep Angle Rescue Team were assembled Saturday but determined it was unsafe to recover the bodies until daylight. Several personnel remained in the area overnight and teams regrouped Sunday morning.

According to responders, the slope angle in this area was between 27 and 50 degrees. This was previously clearcut area, had low vegetation growth and very thick brush. Nearly 15 responders worked together to complete the strenuous recovery.

Evidence on scene showed the Forbes’ had a permit to be on Weyerhaeuser property and that alcohol may have been a factor in the crash. Seatbelts were not used. Deputies believe the crash occurred several hours before the bodies were discovered.

MPD Case 24-7153

MEDFORD, Ore. – The Southern Oregon Child Exploitation Team (SOCET) joint inter-agency task force and Medford Police Department (MPD) served a search warrant Thursday, May 29, after discovering images of child exploitation were uploaded from a residence in Medford, Ore. Detectives interviewed possible witnesses and involved parties, and investigations are ongoing.

SOCET, MPD officers, and Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) detectives served the search warrant Thursday morning just before 8 a.m. at a residence in the 3000 block of Edgewood Drive in Medford. SOCET began the investigation after receiving a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children which led to subpoenas, followed by the search warrant at the residence.

The SOCET investigation was assisted by the Southern Oregon High Tech Crimes Task Force (SOHTCTF) and Ashland Police Department. During the warrant investigators seized digital devices which will be forensically examined by SOHTCTF for further evidence of child exploitation.

SOCET is a joint inter-agency task force that started in June of 2020 to combat child exploitation. The task force consists of investigators from JCSO, MPD, Oregon Department of Justice Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and Homeland Security Investigations, as well as prosecutors from our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners in Jackson and Josephine County. SOHTCTF is a joint inter-agency task force that consists of investigators from JCSO, HSI, Oregon State Police, and MPD.

This investigation is active and ongoing with detectives following additional leads. There is no further information available for release.

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Lebanon, Oregon

On Saturday May 24, 2025, at 0920, Lebanon Firefighters responded to multiple cars on fire in the 700 block of W Grant Street. The first unit to arrive was an Albany Fire Department medic unit that was moved up to Lebanon to help cover the District as multiple, simultaneous 911 calls were occurring in the city. The firefighters relayed to dispatch and incoming units of two vehicles fully engulfed and near a structure. Lebanon Fire crews arrived and quickly went to work fighting the blaze when an explosion from inside a vehicle rocked the neighborhood, sending debris into nearby yards and streets. Firefighters continued to advance, extinguishing the blaze and keeping the fire from entering the house. A second engine arrived and went to work, checking the inside of the house for extension of fire and making sure all residents were out. Unfortunately, while firefighters were battling the car fires the remains of a local resident that had been living in one of the cars was discovered.

Firefighters had the incident under control in about 20 minutes with all three cars extinguished while the incident commander contacted the Lebanon Police about the victim, and at that time the street was shut down to process and investigate. Lebanon Fire Investigation Team assisted at the scene with members of the local law enforcement, while two firefighters were evaluated at the local area hospital with minor injuries sustained when the explosion occurred. The cause of the fire remains under investigation and the residents of the structure have been displaced until power can be restored to the home.

The Lebanon Fire District responded to the blaze with 17 personnel on one ladder truck, one engine, one fire/medic from Albany Fire, one fire/medic from Lebanon, one heavy rescue, two chief officers and a Deputy Fire Marshal. Firefighters were assisted at the scene by Lebanon Police and Pacific Power. Albany Fire Department provided an engine to help cover the District while the incident took place.

Be Safe Lebanon…

The Lincoln City Police Department is pleased to announce it was recently awarded its initial law enforcement agency accreditation from the Northwest Accreditation Alliance (NWAA). The accreditation was presented to Chief Dave Broderick by NWAA Executive Director Scott Hayes during an awards ceremony held at the Oregon Association of Chiefs of Police annual conference in Pendleton, Oregon on April 17, 2025.

This achievement marks a significant milestone in LCPD’s commitment to maintaining the highest, best practice, standards in law enforcement and public safety. The accreditation process involved a rigorous independent evaluation of the department’s operations, policies, and practices to ensure compliance with NWAA’s professional standards. It recognizes LCPD’s dedication to professionalism, accountability, and the department’s primary goals of providing a high level of service to the community.

In the early morning of Monday, May 19, 2025, Lincoln City Police Officers responded to a shooting call in the area of SW 51st St and SW Ebb Ave. Upon arrival, they located a victim who had sustained multiple apparent gunshot wounds. The victim in this case has been identified as 52-year-old Scott Church, of Lincoln City. The suspect in the shooting, 43-year-old Justin Schimedel of Lincoln City, was arrested at the scene and initially charged with Assault I, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, and Pointing a Firearm at Another

On Sunday, May 25^th, 2025, Scott Church succumbed to his injuries from the shooting. Mr. Church’s family has been notified of his death.

On May 27^th, 2025, a Lincoln County Grand Jury indicted the suspect, Justin Schimedel on additional charges of Murder in the Second Degree and Manslaughter in the First Degree. He is currently being held without bail at the Lincoln County Jail.

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to please contact Detective “Bud” Lane or Detective John Goodman at 541-994-3636.

Submitted By: Lieutenant Jeffrey Winn

NATIONAL PET PREPAREDNESS MONTH  
 

June is National Pet Preparedness month and is the perfect time to review your emergency plans for your furry, scaley, and feathery family members. Keep your pets and livestock prepared for emergencies by taking these steps:

• Create and practice your emergency plan for pets and livestock.
• Take inventory of and replace expired emergency supplies such as pet food, medications, and water.
• Stay informed of local hazards and emergencies. Take appropriate steps to keep your animals safe and be prepared to evacuate them with your household.

Plan for Pets

• Take animals with you if you need to evacuate. Only as a last resort should animals be left behind.
• Create a plan with neighbors, friends, or relatives to evacuate your pet if you are not able to do so.
• Animals may run away or hide during an emergency. If your area is in a level one or higher evacuation warning, put your pet’s collar or harness on and keep them in a secure room. Doing this will allow you to grab them quickly if you need to evacuate.
• Many emergency shelters cannot accept animals. Before disaster strikes, find out which hotels/shelters allow animals or which friends outside of the area will be able to help.
• Be sure ID tags are on collars and consider a microchip.
• Keep your dog’s license (legally required) and cat’s license (recommended) updated. This helps animals reunite with their families faster.
• Keep your pets’ vaccinations and ID tags up to date. Keep a copy of these documents in your family’s Go Bag.
• Prepare a pet emergency kit with leashes, collars, portable carriers, water, food, medications, sanitation materials, immunization records, first-aid kit, and photos to prove ownership.
• Don’t leave pets in vehicles, tethered, or crated without you.
• If you have to leave your animals at home, keep them inside a secure area. Leave at least a 10-day supply of dry food and water. Put signs on windows and doors indicating the number and type of animals inside and your contact information.
• Be aware that your pet’s behavior may change after a crisis. They may become more aggressive or self-protective.

Plan for Livestock

• If your area is in a level 2 or higher evacuation warning, evacuate with your livestock immediately. Begin preparing your livestock for transport in a level 1 evacuation warning. This will give you more time to safely secure your animals and get trailers or other equipment on the road before it is too late.
• Post emergency contact numbers on barns and/or pasture fences.
• Write your phone number on your stock with a permanent marker if you must release them.
• Have a supply of feed at a separate location.
• Involve family and neighbors in an evacuation plan.
• Make a kit with leads, halters, first aid, quieting hoods, water, photos, and a copy of your ownership papers.

More Resources for Pet and Livestock Emergency Planning can be found:

• Lincoln County Emergency Management: Plan and Prepare - Animals and Pets
• Ready.gov: Prepare Your Pets for Disasters
• Red Cross: Pet Disaster Preparedness

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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On May 26th, 2025, at about 8:30 pm, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a single vehicle crash over an embankment in a remote location on the United States Forest Service 53 Road outside of Waldport, OR. Deputies responded with fire and medics. 45-year-old Calvin Moreschini of Waldport, OR, was contacted at the scene, and 45-year-old David Vargues was injured near where the vehicle came to rest. The vehicle was located approximately 100 feet down a steep, heavily brushed embankment. Rescuers worked quickly to provide medical care for Calvin and David using high-angle rope systems to retrieve David from over the embankment. Both Calvin and David were transported by ambulance to Samaritan Pacific Communities Hospital, however, David died from his injuries. With assistance from the Oregon State Police and the City of Newport Police Department, it was determined that Calvin was impaired by alcohol at the time of the crash, and he was subsequently arrested. Calvin was charged with Manslaughter in the Second Degree, Reckless Driving, and DUII, and was lodged at the Lincoln County Jail. David’s next of kin have been notified.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office would like to express our sincere condolences to David’s friends and family, and our appreciation for the teamwork of Oregon State Police, the City of Newport Police Department, Central Coast Fire & Rescue, Yachats Rural Fire Protection District, Seal Rock Fire District, and Pacific West Ambulance.

####

Jefferson County, Ore. 30 May 2025- On Thursday, May 29, 2025, at 7:01 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 26, at the intersection with Dover Lane, in Jefferson County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Dodge Ram 2500 and trailer, operated by Aaron Christopher Chappel (22) of Bend, began making a left hand turn onto Dover Lane when a southbound Harley Davidson motorcycle, operated by Scott Anthony Pradmore (36) of Madras, attempted a pass on the left side of the Dodge. The Harley Davidson struck the trailer as the Dodge made the left turn onto Dover Lane.

The operator of the Harley Davidson (Pradmore) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Dodge (Chappel) was not injured.

The highway was impacted for approximately two hours during the on-scene investigation. An unsafe pass is considered the primary cause of the crash.

OSP was assisted by the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office and ODOT.

# # #

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.

WASHINGTON COUNTY, Ore. 29 May 2025 – The Oregon State Police is seeking the public’s help in an investigation into a shooting early this morning in Washington County involving a person shooting at moving vehicles from the side of the highway.
 

The incident occurred May 29, 2025, between 5 and 7 a.m. on southbound Interstate 5 between mileposts 288 and 286, near the Interstate 205 and Elligsen Road exits. Two victims have been identified. A suspect is in custody and there is no active threat to the public.
 

Investigators are looking for possible additional victims and witnesses. Anyone with information is asked to call OSP dispatch at 800-422-0776 and reference case number SP25-179255.

Due to the ongoing investigation, no additional details are available for release.

# # #

  
About the Oregon State Police

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

Clackamas County, Ore. 27 May 2025- On Sunday, May 26, 2025, at 5:16 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to at two-vehicle crash on Highway 224, near milepost 45, in Clackamas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated an eastbound Harley Davidson Softail motorcycle, operated by Niko Daniel Harpham (28) of Oregon City, failed to negiated a corner, slid into the westbound travel lane, and struck a westbound Kia Forte, operated by Gabriela Camacho (21) of Molalla, head-on.

The operator of the Harley Davidson (Harpham) was declared deceased after being transported by Life Flight to an area hospital.

The operator of the Kia  (Camacho) suffered minor injuries.

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

OSP was assisted by the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office and ODOT.

# # #

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.

Tillamook County, Ore. 25 May 2025- On Saturday, May 24, 2025, at 6:07 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 26, near milepost 31, in Tillamook County.

The preliminary investigation indicated westbound Toyota Rav4, operated by Fred Camino (64) of Seattle (WA), crossed the centerline for unknown reasons and stuck an eastbound Nissan Sentra, operated by Bassam Jabra Moussan (62) of Austin (TX), head-on. 

The operator of the Toyota (Camino) and passenger, Ann Martinez (60) of Seattle (WA), suffered serious injuries and were transported to an area hospital.

The operator of the Nissan, Bassam Jabra Moussan, and passengers, Matthew James Moussan (34) of Vancouver (WA) and Whitne Daniel Moussan (30) of Davis (CA), all suffered serious injuries and were transported to an area hospital.

A passenger in Nissan, Michelle Marie Moussan (59) of Vancouver (WA), was delcared deceased at the scene.

The highway was impacted for approximately five hours during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

OSP was assisted by Banks Fire, Elsie Fire, Hillsboro Fire, Washington County Sheriff's Office, and ODOT. 

# # #

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.

Deschutes County, Ore. 25 May 2025- On Friday, May 23, 2025, at 2:22 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 97, near milepost 164, in Deschutes County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a 2003 Ford Taurus, operated by Marvin Lee Cudd Jr. (76) of Sunriver, was stopped on the northbound shoulder of Highway 97 facing westbound, perpendicular to the roadway. The Ford began to cross the highway and was struck by a northbound Chevrolet Silverado 2500, operated by Joshua Dale Musick (43) of Christmas Valley, on the driverside door.

The operator of the Ford (Cudd) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Chevrolet (Musick) suffered minor injuries.

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

OSP was assisted by LaPine Fire, Deschutes County Sheriff's Office, and ODOT.

# # #

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.

SALEM, Ore. - The State Capitol Mall was packed as civilians and service members gathered in honor of Armed Forces Day, May 14, 2025, in Salem, Oregon.

The Oregon National Guard had something for everyone, from the howitzer salute courtesy of 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery, to the F-15 Eagle flyover by the Oregon Air National Guard, music from the 234th Army Band, and military static displays staged around the Mall.

“This Armed Forces Day, we gather to express our profound gratitude for the service and sacrifice of all the remarkable individuals who serve in every branch of our armed forces,” said Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek.

The Oregon National Guard recognized the 20th anniversary of Oregon Soldiers who deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom during this year’s celebration. Personnel from the 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment, headquartered in Springfield, were deployed in 2004 and returned to Oregon in 2005. 

Armed Forces Day was created in 1949 by President Harry S. Truman to honor Americans serving in all military branches, replacing the separate Army, Navy, and Air Force Days. The holiday was officially designated in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy.

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Release B-ROLL: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/962457/2025-oregon-national-guard-hosts-armed-forces-day-celebration

Released photos:

240514-Z-ZJ128-1001 - Soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment, Oregon Army National Guard, fire an M119 105 mm howitzer during a salute at the Armed Forces Day celebration in front of the Oregon State Capitol building in Salem, Ore., May 14, 2025. The celebration featured music from "Oregon's Own" 234th Army Band, static displays of military equipment, local food trucks, and concluded with an F-15 Eagle flyover from the Oregon Air National Guard. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

250514-Z-UZ129-1001 - Attendees tour the Oregon National Guard static displays during the Armed Forces Day event at the State Capitol Mall in Salem, Ore., May 14, 2025. Armed Forces Day recognizes the continued sacrifice of all military members and their families. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Simonson, Oregon National Guard)

250514-Z-UZ129-1002 - The North Salem High School Junior ROTC color guard posts the service flags during the Armed Forces Day event at the State Capitol Mall in Salem, Ore., May 14, 2025. Armed Forces Day recognizes the continued sacrifice of all military members and their families. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Simonson, Oregon National Guard)  

250514-Z-UZ129-1004 - Brig Gen. Alan Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon, addresses attendees during the Armed Forces Day event at the State Capitol Mall in Salem, Ore., May 14, 2025. Armed Forces Day recognizes the continued sacrifice of all military members and their families. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Simonson, Oregon National Guard)  

250514-Z-UZ129-1005 - The Armed Forces Day event concludes with an F-15 Eagle flyover by Oregon Air National Guard's at the State Capitol Mall in Salem, Ore., May 14, 2025. Armed Forces Day recognizes the continued sacrifice of all military members and their families. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Simonson, Oregon National Guard)  

250514-Z-UZ129-1006 - Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek greets retired Command Sgt. Maj. “Vinnie” Jacques, who served in Iraq in 2004-2005 with Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment following the Armed Forces Day event at the State Capitol Mall in Salem, Ore., May 14, 2025. Armed Forces Day recognizes the continued sacrifice of all military members and their families. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Simonson, Oregon National Guard)  

250514-Z-UZ129-1007 - Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek and Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon, pose for a group photo with 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry Regiment members following the Armed Forces Day event at the State Capitol Mall in Salem, Ore., May 14, 2025. Armed Forces Day recognizes the continued sacrifice of all military members and their families. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Simonson, Oregon National Guard) 

SALEM, Ore. - Oregon National Guard Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen participated in several Memorial Day observances across the state on May 26, 2025, a day dedicated to honoring all those who died in service to the United States during both peacetime and war.

At Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon, delivered a Memorial Day address as the keynote speaker to those gathered for the 75th Annual Memorial Day Observance.

“On this solemn occasion of Memorial Day, we gather to honor and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our great nation,” Gronewold said. “They chose to serve willingly, full-heartedly, courageously, and for a greater purpose.”

While describing the loss of service members from Operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, Gronewold said that a portion of Willamette National Cemetery is especially meaningful.  

“It’s a sobering feeling to walk among the headstones here, particularly in sections X and W, where our Soldiers from Operation Iraqi Freedom have been laid to rest,” he said. “Being here allows us all a time for quiet contemplation and an opportunity to gain perspective on life’s passage.”

Elsewhere in Oregon, other Oregon National Guard leaders spoke to those gathered on this significant day of national remembrance. Both the 142nd Wing out of Portland and the 173rd Fighter Wing out of Klamath Falls flew patriotic flyovers at multiple events.

In Salem at the State Capital grounds, Oregon Army National Guard Col. Russell Gibson, 82nd Troop Command Brigade Commander, Oregon Military Department Director of Government and Legislative Affairs, delivered remarks, honoring fallen service members who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation.

During a Memorial Day service held at the Restlawn Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home in Salem, retired Oregon Army National Guard Col. Kevin Dial addressed attendees gathered to remember fallen service members who have given their lives in defense of the nation.

The Oregon National Guard provides the citizens of the State of Oregon and the United States with a ready force of citizen Soldiers and Airmen, equipped and trained to respond to any contingency, natural or man-made. "Always Ready, Always There."

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Release Images:

250526-Z-CH590-1043: Chaplain (Col.) Jacob A. Scott, Oregon National Guard State Chaplain, delivers the Invocation at the start of the Memorial Day Observance at Willamette National Cemetery, Portland, Oregon, on May 26, 2025. This year marked the 75th annual Memorial Day Observance at Willamette National Cemetery, one of three national cemeteries in Oregon (the others being Roseburg and Eagle Point). (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250526-Z-CH590-1254 and 250526-Z-CH590-1262: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon, delivers a Memorial Day address as the keynote speaker to those gathered at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Oregon, on May 26, 2025. This year marked the 75th annual Memorial Day Observance at Willamette National Cemetery, one of three national cemeteries in Oregon (the others being Roseburg and Eagle Point). (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250526-Z-CH590-1072: Military members of a Joint Service Honor Guard team prepare the Posting of Colors to begin the 75th Annual Memorial Day Observance at Willamette National Cemetery, Portland, Oregon, on May 26, 2025. The Honor Guard detail included service members from the Oregon Army and Air National Guard, and Navy and Marine Corps reservists in Oregon. (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250526-Z-CH590-1341: Military members of a Joint Service Honor Guard team perform a rifle salute during the Memorial Day Observance held at Willamette National Cemetery, Portland, Oregon, on May 26, 2025. This year marked the 75th annual Memorial Day Observance at Willamette National Cemetery, one of three national cemeteries in Oregon (the others being Roseburg and Eagle Point). (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250526-Z-CH590-1160: A ceremonial wreath is presented by the Gold Star Wives during the Memorial Day Observance held at Willamette National Cemetery, Portland, Oregon, on May 26, 2025. This year marked the 75th annual Memorial Day Observance at Willamette National Cemetery, one of three national cemeteries in Oregon (the others being Roseburg and Eagle Point). (National Guard photo by John Hughel, Oregon Military Department Public Affairs)

250526-Z-ZJ128-1001: Oregon Army National Guard Color Guard members salute during the presentation of colors at the 2025 ODVA Statewide Memorial Day Ceremony at the Oregon World War II Memorial on the Oregon State Capitol grounds in Salem, Oregon, May 26, 2025. Pictured is Staff Sgt. Jeffrey Cox, Staff Sgt. Steven Olson, Sgt. Wyatt Wampoer and Spc. Peter May. The ceremony honored fallen service members who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

250526-Z-ZJ128-1002 and 250526-Z-ZJ128-1003: Oregon Army National Col. Russell Gibson, 82nd Troop Command Brigade Commander and Oregon Military Department Director of Government and Legislative Affairs, delivers remarks during the 2025 ODVA Statewide Memorial Day Ceremony at the Oregon World War II Memorial on the Oregon State Capitol grounds in Salem, Oregon, May 26, 2025. The ceremony brought together Oregonians from across the state to honor fallen service members who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

250526-Z-ZJ128-1004: Oregon Army National Guard Color Guard members pose with Miss America pageant contestants during the 2025 ODVA Statewide Memorial Day Ceremony at the Oregon World War II Memorial on the Oregon State Capitol grounds in Salem, Oregon, May 26, 2025. The Miss America contestants, who helped with the ceremony by handing out programs, are pictured left to right: Kendra Huntington, Miss Majestic Lakes; Emily Redling, Miss Linn Benton 2025; Mila Pearl, Miss Portland Metro Teen 2025; and Em DeGraness, Miss City Bridges Teen 2025. The ceremony honored fallen service members who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

20250526-Z-UZ129-1001: Retired Oregon Army National Guard Col. Kevin Dial addresses attendees during a Memorial Day ceremony at Restlawn Memory Gardens and Funeral Home in Salem, Ore., May 26, 2025. Attendees gathered to remember fallen service members who have given their lives in defense of the nation. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Simonson, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs Office)

20250526-Z-UZ129-1002: Oregon Army National Guard Funeral Honors Spc. Patrick Ruiz gives a folded flag to Susan Dougherty in honor of her husband, U.S. Army 2nd Lt. Patrick Dougherty, during a Memorial Day ceremony at Restlawn Memory Gardens and Funeral Home in Salem, Ore., May 26, 2025. Attendees gathered to remember fallen service members who have given their lives in defense of the nation. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Simonson, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs Office)

20250526-Z-UZ129-1003: Attendees at a Memorial Day ceremony at Restlawn Memory Gardens and Funeral Home select roses in honor of loved ones who have passed, May 26, 2025, in Salem, Oregon.. Attendees gathered to remember fallen service members who have given their lives in defense of the nation. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Simonson, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs Office)

20250526-Z-UZ129-1004: Attendees at a Memorial Day ceremony at Restlawn Memory Gardens and Funeral Home select roses in honor of loved ones who have passed, May 26, 2025, in Salem, Oregon.. Attendees gathered to remember fallen service members who have given their lives in defense of the nation. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Emily Simonson, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs Office)

Major Tommy Vu completes 1,422 repetitions in one hour at West Salem gym

WEST SALEM, Ore. – Oregon Army National Guard Physician Assistant Major Tommy Vu set a new world record May 23, 2025, for the most hand-release push-ups completed in one hour, achieving 1,422 repetitions at West Coast Strength gym in West Salem.

The record attempt, which required a minimum of 1,250 repetitions to qualify as an official Guinness World Record, marks Vu's seventh world record achievement. Previous records for this category had remained unbroken due to a lack of official attempts to meet the qualifying threshold.

"My goal was to break the record, but when I talked to my commanding officer about it, he said if I didn't get 1,350, that wouldn't be good enough," Vu explained following the grueling hour-long performance. "So I was really happy when I looked over and saw 1,350. I asked them to take a photo to show him I did it."

True to his tradition, Vu dedicated $1 per repetition to charity, with proceeds benefiting cancer research in honor of his friend Ilsa, who recently completed her first marathon while battling brain cancer.

The achievement comes after previous challenges for Vu, including developing rhabdomyolysis from his recent burpee pull-up record attempt and illness that forced the postponement of his initial attempt at this record.

Brig. Gen. Alan Gronewold, the adjutant general of Oregon, said Vu's latest achievement demonstrates the caliber of individuals who serve in the Oregon National Guard.

"Major Vu's ability to excel in his medical profession while pursuing personal challenges at the highest level reflects the multifaceted talent we see throughout our ranks," Gronewold said. "His commitment to giving back through charitable donations with each record attempt embodies the service-oriented mindset that defines our Guard members."

"People always ask when I'm going to stop or when enough is enough,"

Vu said. "There's always going to be charity out there, people to help, and records to break, so I'll just keep going until I run out of steam."

This latest accomplishment adds to Vu's impressive record-setting career, which includes previous world records for burpees and other fitness challenges, all while serving his community and country as a medical officer in the Oregon Army National Guard.

The record is pending official verification by Guinness World Records.'

Released B-Roll Video: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/964035/oregon-national-guard-physician-assistant-sets-new-world-record-hand-release-push-ups

Release Photos:

251223-Z-ZJ128-1001

Oregon Army National Guard Physician Assistant Maj. Tommy Vu performs the hand-release portion of a push-up during his world record attempt for most hand-release push-ups in one hour at West Coast Strength gym in West Salem, Ore., May 23, 2025. Vu's wife, Linda, can be seen in the background, capturing the historic moment. Vu completed 1,422 repetitions, setting a new world record pending official verification by Guinness World Records. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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Oregon Army National Guard member Pedro Velasquez keeps the official count while friends and spectators perform push-ups alongside Maj. Tommy Vu during his world record attempt for most hand-release push-ups in one hour at West Coast Strength gym in West Salem, Ore., May 23, 2025. Vu encourages participants at all his record attempts to complete repetitions with him for additional motivation during the grueling hour-long challenge. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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Oregon Army National Guard Physician Assistant Maj. Tommy Vu grimaces with maximum effort at the apex of a push-up as the counter shows 1,413 repetitions with just 26 seconds remaining in his world record attempt at West Coast Strength gym in West Salem, Ore., May 23, 2025. Vu would complete 1,422 hand-release push-ups in one hour, setting a new world record pending official verification by Guinness World Records. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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A sweat-soaked Oregon Army National Guard Physician Assistant, Maj. Tommy Vu points to the counter displaying 1,422 repetitions after completing his world record attempt for most hand-release push-ups in one hour at West Coast Strength gym in West Salem, Ore., May 23, 2025. Vu's achievement marks his seventh world record and is pending official verification by Guinness World Records. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

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Oregon Army National Guard Physician Assistant Maj. Tommy Vu holds his son Adonis while surrounded by friends and family who came out to support his world record attempt at West Coast Strength gym in West Salem, Ore., May 23, 2025. His wife, Linda, holds a large donation check for $1,422, representing $1 for each repetition completed, which will be donated to cancer research. The counter in the foreground displays Vu's final total of 1,422 hand-release push-ups, setting a new world record pending official verification by Guinness World Records. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs signed a formal agreement with the Coquille Indian Tribe last week that will provide a framework for collaboration and increased resources dedicated to supporting the Tribe’s veterans in accessing their earned federal and state veterans’ benefits.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed Tuesday, May 13, by ODVA Director Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels and Tribal Council Vice Chair Jen Procter Andrews, with Tribal government leaders and representatives, Tribal veterans and ODVA staff gathered to commemorate the historic partnership.

The formal signing was hosted on the Tribe’s sovereign land in North Bend in a ceremony that honored both the significance of the partnership and the traditions of the Coquille Indian Tribe.

The agreement will pave the way for the establishment of the Coquille Indian Tribe’s first Tribal Veterans Service Officer (TVSO), which will be jointly funded by ODVA and the Coquille Indian Tribe to serve Tribal veterans and their families.

“Tribal Veteran Service Officers play a vital role in ensuring Oregon’s Tribal veterans are seen, heard, and supported — not only as veterans, but as members of sovereign nations with deep cultural roots and histories,” said Dr. Daniels.

“This agreement marks a meaningful step forward, creating space for trusted advocates who understand both the federal VA system and the unique needs of their communities. Today isn’t just about a signature — it’s about the shared commitment we’re building together to honor and serve all who have worn the uniform, and we’re proud to mark that step forward in a way that reflects the meaning of ceremony for the Coquille Indian Tribe.”

“Native Americans continue to serve at a higher rate than any other ethnic group and have enlisted to protect their lands as far back as the Revolutionary War,” said Vice Chair Procter Andrews. “This partnership shows Oregon's dedication to ensure that our veterans receive the benefits and respect they deserve, in a way that works for them. We hope this partnership is the first step towards a better relationship with the state and increased services for our vets!”

This Memorandum of Understanding is ODVA’s fifth 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 and the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians.

Oregon’s statewide network of County and Tribal Veteran Service Offices are collaborative partnerships between the state and counties or Tribal governments to provide free, local expertise and assistance to veterans and their families in accessing their earned benefits.

Tribal Veteran Service Officers (TVSOs) are trained by ODVA and then accredited by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. TVSOs assist veterans and their families with access to a wide variety of benefits and services that were earned through military service.

To learn more about veteran benefits, resources and services near you, or to schedule an appointment 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.

About the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs

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.

About the Coquille Indian Tribe

The Coquille Indian Tribe flourished in Oregon’s southwestern corner for thousands of years, cherishing the bountiful forests, rivers and beaches of a homeland encompassing more than 750,000 acres. In 1954, Congress declared the Coquille Tribe “terminated.” 35 years later the Tribe was formally restored to federal recognition in 1989. Today the Tribe numbers more than 1,200 members and it has regained more than 10,000 acres of ancestral homeland, proudly managing the bulk of it as sustainable forest. The Tribe provides education assistance, health care, elder services and (where needed) housing assistance to its people, while contributing substantially to the surrounding community’s economy. Its various enterprises employ approximately 1000 people, and its community fund is the region’s leading local source of charitable grants. For more about the Coquille Indian Tribe, visit coquilletribe.org.

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2025 Board on Public Safety Standards & Training

 and Policy Committee

Open Vacancy – Recruitments

The Board on Public Safety Standards & Training (BPSST) and established Policy Committees have open vacancies looking to be filled before the end of the year! The current vacancies are as follows:

BPSST: All Board applications must be submitted through Workday.com

• One member who is a sheriff recommended to the Governor by the Oregon State Sheriffs’ Association
• One member representing Non-Management Law Enforcement 
• One member who is a representative of the collective bargaining unit that represents the largest number of individual workers in the Department of Corrections
• One member who is a chief of police recommended to the Governor by the Oregon Association of Chiefs of Police
• One individual who is a member of the Oregon State Fire Fighters Council recommended to the Governor by the executive body of the council
• Public Member

Policy Committees: All Policy Committee applications must be submitted by June 20, 2025.

Corrections Policy Committee:

• Public Member

Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee:

• One person representing the retail industry
• One person representing persons who monitor alarms
• One person who is a private investigator licensed under ORS 703.430, and is recommended by the Oregon State Bar (will also serve on the PI Sub-Committee upon appointment)
• One person representing the public who has never been employed or utilized as a private security provider or investigator

Private Investigator Subcommittee:

• Currently licensed private investigator, Oregon State Bar appointed

Telecommunications Policy Committee:

• One person representing recommended by and representing the Oregon State Police
• One member recommended by and representing the Emergency Medical Services and Trauma Systems Program of the Oregon Health Authority

Fire Policy Committee:

• One member who is a member of the Oregon State Fire Fighters Council recommended to the Governor by the executive body of the council

To inquire about a vacancy, please visit Department of Public Safety Standards & Training : Board on Public Safety Standards & Training and Policy Committees : Boards and Committees : State of Oregon.

If interested in applying for a Policy Committee position, please complete and submit the Policy Committee Interest Form found under the ‘Board and Committee Resources’ section of the website listed above.

If interested in applying for a BPSST position, please complete the online application at Workday Board and Commission Opportunities. (Please note that an account may need to be created if not already in Workday)

For further information regarding the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training or its respective Policy Committees, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov.

Thank you,

DPSST Board & Committees Staff

The Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) has fined Hillsboro-based Renner Trucking and Excavating Inc. $80,804 for repeatedly violating rules that protect workers from trenches caving in on them.

A cave-in can trap and kill within seconds.

Oregon OSHA issued a citation to the company on May 12 following an inspection that found two employees working in a trench with no protective system in place. The trench – about 3 feet wide by 12 feet long and more than 5 feet deep – was part of work to build a home in Beaverton.

The division conducted the inspection under a prevention-based emphasis program that focuses enforcement resources on trenching and excavation hazards, which are extremely dangerous to workers.

“Any employer preparing to do this type of work must take the well-known dangers seriously by following safety requirements designed to protect workers,” said Renée Stapleton, administrator for Oregon OSHA. “Workers have a right to hazard-free jobsites. Employers must make that right a reality.”

Altogether, Oregon OSHA cited Renner Trucking and Excavating Inc. for three violations of the Oregon Safe Employment Act. Those violations were:

• Failure to provide a sufficient protective system to protect employees from a trench collapse. It was a first-repeat violation. Penalty: $39,696. 
• Failure to ensure a competent person was available to identify and address existing and predictable trench hazards. It was a first-repeat violation. Penalty: $39,696.  
• Failure to provide adequate protection for employees from loose rock or soil potentially falling from the face of the trench onto their heads. It was a serious violation. Penalty: $1,412.

The total penalty issued to the company included a standard reduction based on the size of the company. Employers have 30 calendar days after receiving a citation to file an appeal.

Oregon OSHA offers free resources – involving no fault, no citations, and no penalties – to help employers address a broad range of workplace safety and health concerns, including trench and excavation hazards. They include a guide to safe excavation practices and a fact sheet about competent person duties.

Moreover, the division offers the following nonenforcement resources:

Consultation services – Provides free help with safety and health programs, including how to control and eliminate hazards, and hands-on training

• Phone (toll-free in Oregon): 800-922-2689
• Field offices
• Online
• Email: consult.web@dcbs.oregon.gov

Technical staff – Helps employers understand requirements and how to apply them to their worksites

• Phone (toll-free in Oregon): 800-922-2689
• Online
• Email: tech.web@dcbs.oregon.gov

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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.

On May 9, 2025, Levi David Gray, a former Coffee Creek Correctional Facility employee, pleaded guilty to two counts of custodial sexual misconduct in the first degree. On May 23, 2025, Gray was sentenced to 20 months in prison and 5 years of probation.

The Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) remains committed to upholding professionalism, integrity, and accountability. The custodial sexual misconduct committed by former Correctional Sergeant Levi Gray is deeply troubling and disappointing. His actions violate the agency’s mission and undermine the trust placed in it by the public, staff, and adults in custody.

Sexual misconduct is unacceptable in any setting, but it is particularly egregious in a correctional environment where power dynamics must never be abused. DOC continues to work diligently to prevent such violations through staff training, reporting mechanisms, and technology.

The agency reaffirms its commitment to transparency, accountability, and justice. The Oregon Department of Corrections has zero tolerance for misconduct, and decisive action will continue to be taken to uphold ethical and legal responsibilities.

DOC Director Michael Reese provided a recorded statement: Director’s Message on Misconduct and Accountability

DOC employs 4,600 staff members at 12 institutions, two community corrections offices, and several centralized support facilities throughout the state. The agency is responsible for the care and custody of over 12,000 adults sentenced to more than 12 months of incarceration, and direct or indirect supervision of 24,000 offenders on felony supervision in the community. DOC is recognized nationally among correctional agencies for providing adults in custody with the cognitive, education, and job skills needed to become productive citizens when they transition back to their communities.

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SALEM, Ore. — May 30, 2025 — Governor Tina Kotek, in coordination with the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), has formally requested Presidential Disaster Declarations to provide federal support for communities across Coos, Curry, Douglas, and Harney counties devastated by the 2025 floods. 

From mid-March to mid-April, Oregon experienced a historic combination of severe storms, rapid snowmelt, and record-level rainfall. The resulting floods caused landslides, infrastructure failure, and widespread displacement, especially in isolated, rural areas. Homes, businesses, bridges, and utility systems were damaged or destroyed, and many residents are still unable to return home. 

“Although this disaster hit some of the most remote and economically vulnerable communities of our state, these folks have each other’s backs – they helped their neighbors to get through the initial emergency. They are resilient and resourceful, but they can’t do recovery alone,” Governor Kotek said. “These communities urgently need federal support to help them recover.” 

The state’s request includes: 

• Public Assistance for Coos, Curry, Douglas, and Harney counties to repair roads, public buildings, and utilities. 
• Individual Assistance for Coos, Curry, and Douglas counties, and separately for Harney County and the Burns Paiute Tribe, to support individuals and families affected by the flooding. 
• Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funding statewide to invest in long-term resilience and flood protection. 

In Harney County, the situation was especially severe. Unseasonably warm temperatures rapidly melted snowpack which was more than double the seasonal average. This overwhelmed the Silvies River, breached levees, and led to the failure of the only wastewater system serving the City of Burns and the Burns Paiute Tribe. Sewage-contaminated floodwaters caused serious public health hazards, damaged more than 100 homes, and forced extended evacuations. 

“This is the second major disaster Harney County has faced in a year, following wildfires in 2024,” said OEM Director Erin McMahon. “With limited local capacity, federal resources are essential to help these communities recover and to prevent future devastation.” 

The requested declarations would open access to federal resources to help eligible individuals and households with uninsured or underinsured expenses and serious needs, support economically and physically impacted small businesses, and support public infrastructure repairs and long-term rebuilding. They would also support hazard mitigation projects like reinforced levees, improved floodplain management, and more resilient infrastructure. For updates and information on available recovery resources, visit www.Oregon.gov/OEM. 

Explore the interactive story map to see the devastating impacts of Oregon’s 2025 floods and the ongoing recovery efforts in Coos, Curry, Douglas, and Harney counties: https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/5b3ecd47075844fe8a1d95f28a8e643b 

# # #

It is the mission of Oregon Emergency Management to proactively develop emergency response, risk reduction and disaster recovery programs to better serve Oregonians during times of disaster. OEM prioritizes an equitable and inclusive culture of preparedness that empowers all Oregonians to thrive in times in crisis. The agency leads collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure the capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters. For more information about the OEM, visit oregon.gov/oem.

You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille, or a format you prefer. For assistance, email licInfo@oem.oregon.gov" rel="noopener" style="text-size-adjust: 100%; color: rgb(59, 116, 181);" target="_blank" title="Email OEM Public Affairs">OEM_PublicInfo@oem.oregon.gov. We accept all relay calls, or you can dial 711. 

IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Media Contact: licInfo@oem.oregon.gov" target="_blank">OEM_PublicInfo@oem.oregon.gov | 503-394-3310 

Plan Ahead for Evacuations During the 2025 Wildfire Awareness Month 

As Wildfire Awareness Month comes to a close the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is urging residents to take action now to prepare for the upcoming wildfire season by being ready to evacuate.  

Last year’s wildfire season was the most destructive in Oregon’s recorded history. The 2025 season is shaping up to be just as formidable. Wildfires can spread rapidly, threatening lives, homes and communities, so it’s vital the Oregonians be prepared ahead of time to receive timely notices and to evacuate if asked.  

OEM has provided resources to help Oregonians take small preparedness steps today can make a life-saving difference tomorrow. For more information about preparing your household and community visit the OEM Be2WeeksReady Community Preparedness webpages. In the meantime, here are some key tips to help you be ready should evacuation be necessary. 

Stay Informed 

Sign up for emergency alerts to receive evacuation notifications. Visit ORAlert.gov to find the local alert system for your city, county, or zip code. If you're already registered, take a moment to log in and update your contact information. Also, check your phone settings to ensure wireless emergency alerts are enabled. 

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

Also, make sure the Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) are enabled on your phone. 

Create a Wildfire Evacuation Plan 

Being prepared starts with a plan. Visit Ready.gov/plan to create a family emergency plan. OEM offers a wildfire evacuation checklist at wildfire.oregon.gov/prepare that can serve as a guide. 

Your plan should include: 

• A list of emergency contacts. 
• A safe meeting place in case family members get separated. 
• Multiple evacuation routes from home, work, or school. TripCheck.com can help with this. 
• Transportation arrangements, including pets and livestock. 
• A discussion with loved ones, friends, and neighbors to ensure everyone understands the plan. 

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

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

Assemble a Wildfire Go-Kit 

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

• Food and water. 
• Medications and medical supplies. 
• Flashlights and phone chargers. 
• Extra clothing and personal items. 
• Copies of vital documents and prescriptions. 

For a comprehensive emergency kit checklist, visit Ready.gov/kit or refer to the American Red Cross recommendations. 

Know Evacuation Levels 

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

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

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

Additional Wildfire Preparedness Resources 

• OEM's Wildfire Alert Graphics 
• OEM's Evacuation Level Graphics 
• 2025 Oregon State Fire Marshall's Wildfire Awareness Month Messaging Toolkit 
• Stay Safe While Driving During Smokey Conditions 
• Vehicles can cause wildfires so make sure yours doesn't 

Getting an insurance check-up. Your insurance policy may not cover floods or wildfires. Talk to your agent to make sure you have the right kind and amount of insurance.  

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

# # #

It is the mission of Oregon Emergency Management to proactively develop emergency response, risk reduction and disaster recovery programs to better serve Oregonians during times of disaster. OEM prioritizes an equitable and inclusive culture of preparedness that empowers all Oregonians to thrive in times in crisis. The agency leads collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure the capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters. For more information about the OEM, visit oregon.gov/oem. You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille, or a format you prefer. For assistance, email licInfo@oem.oregon.gov" target="_blank">OEM_PublicInfo@oem.oregon.gov. We accept all relay calls, or you can dial 711.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Media Contact: licInfo@oem.oregon.gov" target="_blank">OEM_PublicInfo@oem.oregon.gov | 503-394-3310 

Oregon Department of Emergency Management Unveils Comprehensive Homeland Security Strategy 

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) today released the 2025-28 Oregon Homeland Security Strategy (HSS), a three-year roadmap to strengthen the state’s ability to prevent, protect against, respond to and recover from the full spectrum of threats and hazards facing Oregonians. 

“Oregon’s risks—whether natural, technological, or human-caused—demand a coordinated, data-driven approach,” said Erin McMahon, OEM Director and Oregon Homeland Security Advisor. “This strategy reflects months of collaboration with local, tribal and state partners, and it positions Oregon to share intelligence faster, protect critical infrastructure better, and respond to crises more effectively than ever before.” 

Strategy Highlights  

Approved by the Governor’s multi-agency Oregon Homeland Security Council, in April 2025, the strategy prioritizes seven strategic goals that align with FEMA’s National Preparedness System: 

1. Strengthen Intelligence and Information Sharing Capabilities  
2. Enhance Critical Infrastructure Resilience  
3. Enhance Cybersecurity Resilience  
4. Strengthen Counterterrorism Capabilities  
5. Strengthen Public Health and Medical Emergency Preparedness  
6. Advance Interoperable Emergency Communications  
7. Strengthen an All-Hazards Preparedness and Response Capabilities at the Local, Tribal, and State Level 

Key to all these goals is a 24/7/365 common operating picture. OEM is working with legislators to deploy a next-generation data-management system that fuses threat intelligence while honoring Oregon’s privacy and civil-rights laws.   

OEM will accomplish this through a whole-community approach. The plan leverages councils and workgroups—including the Oregon Homeland Security Council, Cybersecurity Advisory Council, and Homeland Security Advisory Workgroup—to coordinate resources across government, private industry, nonprofits and academia. This collaboration with our partners, and the integration of data tools, will help us track, manage, assess and share threat information while adhering to our state laws regarding civil rights and privacy protection. 

Why Now? 

• Escalating natural disasters. Wildfires, ice storms and earthquakes now occur with greater frequency and intensity. 
• Evolving human-caused risks. Domestic violent extremism, fentanyl trafficking, ransomware and disinformation campaigns all pose growing threats to public safety and economic security. 

This strategy provides a comprehensive framework for Oregon which will identify, unify, guide, and streamline homeland security efforts over the next three years, 2025-2028, with revisions occurring in the spring of 2027 for the next 3-year cycle. 

Some of the Next Steps Include: 

• Developing the disaster preparedness stockpile program. 
• Improving the common operating picture and information sharing across agencies and sectors. 
• Expanding education and awareness efforts through outreach activities including newsletters, community messaging, and webinars.  
• Aligning with the Statewide Communications Interoperability Plan. 
• Strengthening private sector partnerships. 
• Securing funds for infrastructure protection, cybersecurity efforts, and mitigation efforts. 
• Developing a prevention and protection framework through the update of the Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan CEMP Volume II: Preparedness Plan. 

Learn More 

The full Homeland Security Strategy is available here. More information about the Homeland Security Council can be found on the OEM website. 

# # #

It is the mission of Oregon Emergency Management to proactively develop emergency response, risk reduction and disaster recovery programs to better serve Oregonians during times of disaster. OEM prioritizes an equitable and inclusive culture of preparedness that empowers all Oregonians to thrive in times in crisis. The agency leads collaborative statewide efforts, inclusive of all partners and the communities we serve, to ensure the capability to get help in an emergency and to protect, mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies or disasters. For more information about the OEM, visit oregon.gov/oem. You can get this document in other languages, large print, braille, or a format you prefer. For assistance, email licInfo@oem.oregon.gov" target="_blank">OEM_PublicInfo@oem.oregon.gov. We accept all relay calls, or you can dial 711.

SALEM, Ore. – Today, the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) deployed 14 firefighters to Alberta, Canada, four firefighters to Alaska, three to Minnesota, and one to Florida. With fire season beginning in some parts of the state, this will be the agency’s last big out-of-state resource push until the rainy fall returns in Oregon.  

Those being deployed to Alberta and Alaska are going through the Northwest Compact, which is a mutual assistance agreement among six states and five NW Canadian provinces and territories. Those deployed to Minnesota and Florida are going through state-to-state mutual aid agreements. Both agreements are in place for organizations to easily share resources with one another, creating a larger and more comprehensive fire management system.  

“These agreements help bolster Oregon’s complete and coordinated fire protection system and create a cache of reciprocal resources for all of us to call on when needed,” Michael Curran, ODF’s Fire Protection Division Chief, said.

When wildfire activity is low in Oregon, firefighters can be spared to help in places experiencing high levels of wildfire. This two-week rotation with our partners is our firefighters’ chance to enhance existing skills, learn new ones, and build on long-standing relationships.

“Know that we don’t share these resources without appropriate vetting. Before committing to any out-of-state deployment, we make sure that our own fire management system is still adequately staffed and ready to respond to fires here in Oregon. Serving Oregonians is our first and primary priority,” said Curran.

Oregon can and has called on its out-of-state partners to send resources when wildfires here exceeded our local and state response capacity, most recently in 2024 when ODF received firefighters and equipment from about 21 states, provinces and territories.

SALEM, Ore. — The Emergency Fire Cost Committee will meet in the Tillamook Room, Building C, Oregon Department of Forestry, 2600 State St. in Salem on Tuesday, June 3 at 10 a.m. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Financial status of the Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund
• Weather update
• Update on status of large fire cost collection efforts
• Eligibility of firefighting costs for the Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund
• Agency and Business Services/Fire Protection Division/Administrator reports

The meeting is open to the public to attend in person or online via Teams. Public comments will be accepted near the end of the meeting. Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-945-7200 or by email at estryinformation@odf.oregon.gov">forestryinformation@odf.oregon.gov.

The Emergency Fire Cost Committee (EFCC) oversees the Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund (OFLPF), established by the Oregon Legislature as a fund with the purpose of equalizing emergency fire suppression costs among the various Oregon Department of Forestry protection districts and forest protective associations. All districts/associations contribute to the fund so that money will be available to any individual district/association to pay fire suppression costs on eligible emergency fires. View more information on the EFCC webpage.

Portland, OR – The Technical Review Team (TRT) for the Grassy Mountain gold mine project in Malheur County will meet by teleconference on Monday, June 16, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. PST.

The public notice and related documents are available at: https://www.oregon.gov/dogami/mlrr/Pages/Calico-GrassyMtn_projectDocuments.aspx

The public and media can listen to the meeting by joining the Zoom meeting online, or by phone. For online meeting details and call-in instructions, see the meeting agenda in the public notice. For further information, contact the DOGAMI Albany office at (541) 967-2083 or email: mation.grassymtn@dogami.oregon.gov">information.grassymtn@dogami.oregon.gov.

The TRT is an inter-disciplinary team of state agencies that reviews information and concerns related to a proposed mine during all phases of the application process and ultimately develops consolidated permit conditions that conform to Oregon regulations.

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CORRECTION: A previous version of this alert misreported eye and hair color. This has been corrected. We apologize for the confusion. 

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Mia Thomas, age 17, a child in foster care who went missing from Albany on May 27. Mia is believed to be in danger.

ODHS asks the public for help in the effort to find Mia and to contact 911 or local law enforcement if they believe they see her.

Mia is suspected to be in the Albany area and is known to frequent Sunrise Park and Eleanor Hackleman Park.

Name: Mia Angel Nevaeh Thomas 
Pronouns: she/her
Date of birth: January 9, 2008
Height: 5-foot-7
Weight: 215 pounds
Eye color: Brown
Hair color: Dyed dark red
Other identifying information: Mia’s left nostril is pierced and she often wears a fake septum ring.
Albany Police Department Case #25-03027
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children #2052167 

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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Need to know:

• Oregon Summer EBT is a federal benefits program to help families buy food for their school-aged children during the summer.
• Oregon expects to provide up to 370,000 school-aged children with around $40 million in Summer EBT food benefits this year.
• Each eligible child receives a one-time payment of $120 in food benefits.
• About 341,500 eligible children received Summer EBT automatically on May 22, 2025 but some families need to apply.

(Salem, OR) – Oregon Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (Summer EBT) is a food benefits program that helps shrink the hunger gap when children are on summer break and don’t have easy access to healthy meals at school. Summer EBT provides $120 per eligible child to buy food. 

This is the second year of Oregon’s Summer EBT program. On May 22, 2025, about 336,000 children got the benefit on an Oregon EBT card. Families should check their EBT card balance at www.ebtedge.com to confirm receipt.

Families who didn’t automatically get Summer EBT on May 22, 2025 should check program requirements before applying. Families can check requirements at sebt.oregon.gov or by contacting the Summer EBT Call Center at 833-673-7328. The Call Center is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., PDT. Apply online in English and Spanish or with a paper application in multiple languages at sebt.oregon.gov. 

“When school doors close for the summer, the need for regular, healthy meals doesn’t disappear. Last year, the summer EBT program bridged a critical gap for thousands of Oregon families, helping to replace those essential 10 meals per child, per week, that they receive when school is in session,” said Dr. Charlene Williams, Director of the Oregon Department of Education (ODE). “We are proud to continue this partnership with ODHS to not only feed children, but to nurture their potential during crucial developmental months. Our continued commitment ensures that summer can be a season of growth and opportunity for all children, regardless of their economic circumstances.”

In 2024, about 362,000 children participated and received $43 million in Summer EBT food benefits their families spent in their local grocery stores, farmers markets, and other places.

“Summer EBT is one more way we can prevent kids from going hungry when school is out. Summer EBT is an evidence-based program proven to reduce child hunger and support healthier diets,” said Fariborz Pakseresht, ODHS Director. “Child hunger can have lasting impacts on health and academic achievement. Getting every eligible child connected to Summer EBT will help Oregon’s children thrive year-round and as they grow up.”

Who is eligible for Summer EBT food benefits?

Families can find details about Summer EBT at sebt.oregon.gov. 

Your school-age child may be automatically eligible if:

• Your family received Summer EBT benefits through an approved application in 2024.
• Your family gets SNAP, TANF or Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid) and meets income rules.
• Your child gets free or reduced-price school meals and meets income rules.
• Your child is in foster care, in migrant education, in a qualified Head Start, experiencing homelessness, or part of the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR).

Children who are automatically eligible received Summer EBT on May 22, 2025.

Your school-age child may be eligible by application if:

• Your family meets the federal income requirements for free or reduced-price meals at school, and
• Your child attends a school that participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP).

Families must apply by Sept. 3, 2025.

Receiving Summer EBT does not impact participation in other summer meal programs.

Summer EBT benefits are not considered in a public charge test and are available to children regardless of immigration status. 

How will families receive Summer EBT food benefits?

The benefits will be placed on an Oregon EBT card and can be used at most grocery stores, farmers markets, and more.

Families that need a new card should call 855-328-6715, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (PDT).

Families that think their children may be eligible and didn’t get benefits on May 22 must apply by September 3. If approved, they will receive an Oregon EBT card by mail.

Stolen Summer EBT benefits can’t be replaced.

You can protect your Oregon EBT card and benefits from electronic theft by following a few simple tips.

Where can families get more information?

To learn more, or to apply, visit sebt.oregon.gov.

Call the Oregon Summer EBT Call Center at 1-833-673-7328 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (PDT) on weekdays. All relay calls accepted.

More about Summer EBT

Summer EBT became a permanent program for states and certain Indian Tribal Organizations through the federal Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023. Most states began providing Summer EBT in June 2024. Oregon’s participation was made possible through an investment from the Oregon State Legislature of $12 million. That investment will draw $83 million in federal funding to Oregon, mostly in the form of food benefits families will spend in their communities. 

Additional resources to help meet basic needs

• Find a food pantry: foodfinder.oregonfoodbank.org
• Find summer meal sites:  https://www.fns.usda.gov/summer/sitefinder
• Learn about government programs and community resources for older adults and people with disabilities: Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon at 1-855-673-2372 or https://www.adrcoforegon.org.
• Dial 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898-211, www.211info.org
• Find local resources and support by contacting your local Community Action Agency: https://www.caporegon.org/find-help

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UPDATED at 4:42 p.m. on 5/28/25: Release updated with NOAA Fisheries approval of the research forest habitat conservation plan and issuance of a incidental take permit for threatened Oregon Coast coho salmon. 

State Secures Habitat Conservation Plan, Permits for the Elliott State Research Forest

The HCP is Oregon’s first for public forest lands, and key as research forest operations begin
 

SALEM, Ore. – Oregon’s Elliott State Research Forest has achieved another major milestone and first for Oregon.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and NOAA Fisheries today announced approval of the habitat conservation plan for the research forest and issuance of Endangered Species Act permits for implementing the plan over the next 80 years.

The HCP is the state’s first for public forest lands, and key as the Elliott begins actively operating in 2025 as Oregon’s first state research forest.

“Oregon’s Elliott State Research Forest is continuing to lead the way,” said Governor Tina Kotek. “With this habitat conservation plan comes certainty that innovative research, economic and environmental benefits, and wildlife protection can all be achieved on the Elliott for decades to come.”

"The habitat conservation plan supports our state partners in innovative forest research and timber production compatible with species conservation,” said Bridget Fahey, Acting Regional Director for the Pacific Region of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. “We're looking forward to working with the state for another 80 years of conservation."
 

HCPs ensure compliance with the federal Endangered Species Act, mapping out both specific management activities that may impact protected species and conservation commitments that protect those species and their habitat over time. Timber harvest and habitat restoration projects are among the activities covered by the approved HCP, which supports operation of the Elliott as a working research forest.
 

A 2012 lawsuit over protected species halted timber harvest on the Elliott, and ultimately led to the State Land Board’s vision of a publicly owned research forest that would contribute multiple benefits to Oregon.
 

 “The future of the Elliott has always been about Oregonians coming together to chart a course that represents what’s best about our state – fulfilling our obligations to school kids, protecting public lands, research that benefits our rural communities, and providing predictable access to timber off this forest. This HCP is foundational to that effort, and its approval is a vote of confidence from our federal partners,” said Secretary of State Tobias Read.
 

The Department of State Lands, guided by a public Elliott State Research Forest Board of Directors, will now oversee the 83,000-acre Elliott as a national center for forest science and management. In October 2024, the State Land Board approved the initial research forest management plan, which calls for benefits that include protecting and restoring habitat, supporting local economies by resuming timber harvest, enhancing opportunities for recreation and education, and promoting opportunities for Indigenous forest stewardship and research.
 

As a research forest, the Elliott will advance a business model and social, economic, and ecological research of national and international relevance to how forest management can support many public benefits. Integrating an HCP and voluntary carbon project on public land, as the research forest will, also represents a first for the nation.

Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner said, “the Elliot State Research Forest embodies the values that make Oregon unique: people working together to safeguard our children’s future and the forests that we depend on. The habitat conservation plan shows what we can do when we work together to advance these values.”

DSL is currently finalizing the initial Elliott operations plan, which outlines timber harvest, restoration projects, road maintenance, and other anticipated activities over the next two years. The operations plan implements the approved forest management plan and includes activities allowed under the HCP. The permit issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service covers incidental take of the threatened marbled murrelet and northern spotted owl. The permit issued by NOAA Fisheries covers incidental take of threatened Oregon Coast coho salmon.

Keith Tymchuk, who serves as chair of the Elliott State Research Forest Board of Directors, said ongoing collaboration by many has been essential to the success of the research forest.
 

“The Elliott is a treasure, and for over seven years now, Oregonians representing many different walks of life have been working to craft a future that fits it. The HCP has always been a huge part of completing our move past the gridlock and standing up the transformation to a research forest,” Tymchuk said. “I’d like to thank Gov. Kotek and the Land Board, Director Walker, ESRF Manager Goodding and the terrific DSL staff, and our collaborative partners from all circles—past and present—for their vision, dedication, persistence and hard work to get us to this point.”

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Video and photos of the Elliott State Research Forest are available here: https://oregonstatelands.app.box.com/s/vo4t0ww2nisjz98qfj3xfjulav3bzggd

OHA kicks off 2025 Oregon beach monitoring season

May 28, 2025

Media Contact: Amber Shoebridge er.shoebridge@oha.oregon.gov" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">amber.shoebridge@oha.oregon.gov 503-931-9586

Oregon Health Authority hires interim Oregon State Hospital superintendent

Salem, Ore. Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has hired James Diegel as the interim superintendent for Oregon State Hospital (OSH). His first day will be June 4. Diegel will take over from Acting Superintendent Dave Baden, OHA deputy director of policy and programs, who has served in the interim role since April 14.

“Jim brings years of expertise, skill and compassion as a hospital administrator in Oregon, Hawaii and Washington, D.C., and has valued experience working with regulatory agencies like The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and The Joint Commission,” said OHA Interim Director Kris Kautz. “I am confident he will lead the hospital through the ongoing CMS survey process with successful results, as well as continue to build off the work plan Dave has started and continue to help the OSH team ensure that all patients receive the care they deserve in a safe environment.”

The recruitment process for a permanent superintendent is ongoing. Diegel’s role as interim director will enable the hospital and its staff to continue executing steps laid out by Acting Superintendent Dave Baden. Baden will continue his role as OHA deputy director.

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SALEM, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking a volunteer to serve a three-year term as the Equestrian Representative on the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Grants Advisory Committee starting in 2026.

The ten-member committee evaluates grant proposals for statewide trail projects. The committee meets once or twice a year, virtually or at locations throughout the state.

The time commitment varies and includes reviewing and evaluating 25 to 40 grant applications per year. Committee members serve three-year terms and are eligible to serve a second term.

Ideal candidates representing the interest of equestrian trail users can live anywhere in Oregon with experience in at least one of the following areas:

• Land management
• Recreation planning
• Trail planning or design
• Recreation related volunteerism, or
• A trail enthusiast who is uniquely qualified to evaluate statewide project proposals through other experience and involvement.

Strong candidates may also demonstrate an awareness of statewide recreational trail needs, other broad recreational issues and the importance of providing equitable, inclusive and accessible recreational opportunities.

Those interested in serving must submit an RTP advisory committee interest form by June 30, 2025. The form is available online and includes more detailed information about serving on the committee: https://form.jotform.com/232364818278162

The competitive grant program is funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration and administered by OPRD. Grants are awarded to non-profits and government entities for motorized and non-motorized trail projects, including building new trails, improving existing trails and developing or improving trail facilities.

For more information about the advisory committee or application process, contact Jodi Bellefeuille, program coordinator, at ellefeuille@oprd.oregon.gov">Jodi.bellefeuille@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-856-6316.

CORVALLIS, Ore. – Benton County and Republic Services are partnering to host a webinar about statewide changes to recycling guidelines and access set to take effect on July 1. Anyone can register through Zoom to watch the virtual presentation scheduled for Tuesday, June 10 from 6-7 p.m.

All community members are invited to participate and learn how Oregon’s recycling system is changing, why it is changing and what residents need to know to recycle right moving forward. Time will be provided for questions about the new recycling rules and how they are being implemented in Benton County.

The July 1 changes are results of Oregon's Plastic Pollution and Recycling Modernization Act (RMA) passed in 2021. The RMA aims to reduce plastic pollution, improve access to recycling and create more sustainable waste management practices across the state.

“With the RMA, Oregon is a leader in creating a more efficient, equitable and effective recycling system,” says Bailey Payne, solid waste program coordinator for the County. “Working together with Republic Services, we can reach more people through outreach and education, thereby increasing the impact of these changes.”

The RMA is intended to modernize the state’s recycling system and make it more robust. Key components include:

• Incentives for producers to use more recyclable materials in packaging.
• A single, statewide list of recyclable materials to reduce confusion and expand what can be recycled in many parts of the state.
• Access to recycling in all communities, including multifamily housing units and rural areas.
• New performance standards and accountability practices for recycling facilities.

Those who wish to view the webinar can register online. A recording of the webinar will be posted to Benton County’s YouTube channel.

CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Benton County Planning Division announces several additional dates for the continuation of the public hearing on LU-24-027, Republic Services’ proposed expansion of the Coffin Butte Landfill.

The initial timeline for the public hearing before the Planning Commission included three days for presentations and public testimony on April 29 and May 1 and 6. A fourth day was added on May 8 to accommodate the volume of public verbal testimony. At the conclusion of that meeting, the hearing was continued to June 17, which had initially been intended as the date for deliberations and a decision.

The following dates have now been set to continue the proceedings. This is the expected schedule; dates are subject to change as necessary with prior notice. With the exception of the June 17 date, meetings will take place at the County’s Kalapuya Building at 4500 SW Research Way in Corvallis.

Tuesday, June 17, 6 p.m. – virtual (Zoom)
Planning Commission meets to continue hearing to July 8.

Tuesday, June 24
Supplemental staff report issued. This report will include analysis of public testimony and supplemental material submitted by the applicant.

Thursday, July 3, 4 p.m.
Deadline to submit written testimony through online form and email (liccomment@bentoncountyor.gov">publiccomment@bentoncountyor.gov). Written evidence can still be submitted in person at the public hearing or at the Community Development office: 4500 SW Research Way in Corvallis, second floor.

Tuesday, July 8, 6-9 p.m.
Public hearing before the Planning Commission continues with presentation of revised staff report and presentation of applicant update. If time permits, begin public verbal testimony on new evidence only. Attestants can submit written testimony on new evidence during the meeting.

Wednesday, July 9, 6 p.m.
Continue public testimony if needed.

Tuesday, July 22, 6 p.m.
Deliberations by Planning Commission. Open to the public, but no public comment will be heard.

Tuesday, Jul 29, 6 p.m.
Meeting to adopt final written decision and findings.

The deadline to reach a decision on the application has been extended from August 11 to September 27. Republic Services requested and was granted a 47-day extension of the 150-day timeline. This is the second extension that has been granted.

According to Benton County Code, the timeline for making land use decisions is 150 days. Applicants are allowed to request up to 215 additional days for the process, for a total of 365 days. This can come as multiple requests throughout the process, each one changing the end date. Republic Services’ first extension request was granted in January, extending the time prior to the start of the public hearing by 58 days.

For more information and access to documents related to LU-24-027, visit bentoncountyor.gov/coffin-butte-landfill.

Annually on the last Wednesday of January, Lane County Human Services Division, in partnership with numerous agencies and groups, conduct the annual one-night county-wide Point-in-Time (PIT) Count. As a known undercount, the PIT count is most valuable to track trends among the number of people who are experiencing homelessness in the region, including those who are unsheltered and sheltered. The PIT Count is comprised of surveys, coupled with data from the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) collected when people who are unhoused engage for assistance. The 2025 PIT Count was conducted the night of January 29, 2025.

The Point-In-Time Count (PIT) is a useful tool for understanding year-over-year trends among those who are unhoused in Lane County. PIT Counts are required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and Oregon Housing and Community Services (State of Oregon) which provides funding for outreach, shelters, housing and supportive services related to homelessness. The PIT Count data and trends are used year-round by planning boards, nonprofits, community organizations, and policy makers on local, state, and federal levels to inform their work on this issue.

Trends

The number of people who are unhoused in Lane County continues to grow. This was particularly apparent during the very cold 2025 PIT count night where nearly 500 cold weather shelter beds were provided with a focus on saving lives. As a result, many people who may not have typically sought out shelter may have accessed shelter because there were additional shelter beds to be found and transportation was available to and from the facilities. This reality created the opportunity to more accurately count the number of people who are unhoused across the region and was the primary driver for the PIT count increase.

While each household likely had a different path to homelessness, the increase in homelessness can be directly attributed to the scarcity of housing in the region, particularly for those with low incomes. Based on the PIT Count only 35% of those counted were also counted in 2024 and only an additional 15% (50% total) were counted in the last five counts (2020-2024). This is similar to the local 2024 By Name List, which indicates 5,161 households moved into homelessness throughout the year, joining 5,704 people who were already unhoused in the region. With the assistance of supportive housing programs, housing navigators, diversion assistance and self-determination, 5,160 of those households exited the homeless services system.

In the cities of Springfield and Eugene, 33,210 units of housing are needed in the next 20 years to accommodate the current and predicted population of people who are housed and unhoused in the community.1 Coupled with Eugene/Springfield regional rental vacancy rates of 3.5%2 currently the lowest in Oregon among large metropolitan areas,3 identifying new housing is a challenge for anyone. This is especially true for those who face steeper challenges to obtaining housing, like no or poor credit, conviction histories, criminal justice involvement and/or low incomes. Those with housing challenges face far fewer housing options and higher move-in costs.

In alignment with the January 10, 2023, Governor’s Executive Order Due to the Crisis of Homelessness, from January 10, 2024, through May 12, 2025, Lane County in partnership with a robust group of service providers supported 650 households to transition from homelessness to permanent housing. This includes providing street outreach, short-term supports like help with move-in costs, or long-term supports like rent assistance and case management. In addition, 787 households were prevented from falling into homelessness through the payment of rent arrears and supportive services. Track progress toward outcomes on the regularly updated ALL IN dashboard.

Key Takeaways of the Count

The night of January 29, 2025:

· 3,509 were experiencing homelessness in Lane County. Based on previous PIT Counts, this is a 14% (3,085 people) increase from 2024 and a 24% (2,824 people) increase from the 2023 count.

· 52 percent more people were sheltered and slightly fewer were unsheltered than during the 2024 count. The majority of the increase is a result of 495 additional cold weather shelter beds being available due to the extremely cold temperature. The beds include the St. Vincent DePaul Egan severe weather sites and Catholic Community Services motel vouchers for families.

· 209 people were provided alternative shelter accommodations. This means an individual slept in a program that provided a roof over their head but that did not meet the technical definition of “emergency shelter.” These are mostly safe parking locations and sites that do not provide electricity and/or heat to individual units.

Of the 3,509 people counted during one night:

· 914 individuals were staying in formal Emergency Shelters.

o The number of Emergency Shelter beds remained similar to last year thanks in part to the Governor’s continuation of the Executive Order funding, having created 304 additional emergency shelter beds in 2024.

· 96 individuals were living in Transitional Housing, which is a program that offers temporary housing (up to 24 months) with supportive services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness with the goal of interim stability and support to successfully move to and maintain permanent housing. Transitional Housing beds increased by 27 due to additional Veteran Affairs investments.

· 2,004 individuals were without formal shelter

o 209 of these individuals were staying in alternative shelter programs like Rest Stops, Microsites, and sanctioned vehicle camping. While these provide much-needed safe places to sleep, they do not meet the HUD definition of emergency shelter.

· The percentage of individuals who are chronically homeless and sheltered increased from 2020 to 2024, from 25% to 46%. In Lane County, we are seeing people remain unhoused for a longer period of time.

o There has been a greater focus across emergency and alternative shelter providers to reduce barriers to access and lower shelter requirements in order to effectively support people who are chronically homeless and have greater vulnerabilities.

Point In Time Counts 2024-2025

2024 PIT 2025 PIT

Chronically homeless 1500 1630

Individuals in households with children 425 419

Veterans 151 210

Unaccompanied youth 198 237

Individuals Aged 65 or older 301 264

Domestic Violence Survivors 681 3404

Total Sheltered 989 1505

Total Unsheltered 2096 2004

Total Count 3085 3509

System Context

Information about the Count:

The 2025 PIT unsheltered count was primarily conducted by generating a report from Lane County’s Homeless Management Information System (HMIS). The report, a version of Homelessness By-Name Lists utilized across the nation, was used, which identifies the number of people who are unhoused in any HMIS-participating program. The over 110 programs that enter data include emergency shelters, street outreach, day access centers, food pantries, and other services for people experiencing homelessness. This is the fifth year Lane County has been approved by HUD to use this method, which results in a more accurate count.

Recognizing there are people who do not access homeless services for many reasons, trained outreach staff collected surveys in areas where it was most likely that people who are unsheltered are not engaged in other services. Youth under 25 who are unhoused are also less apt to access mainstream supports, so many youth providers came together on January 29, and held a resource connection event. Over 30 youth were counted as a result of this event. In addition, a small number of specialized providers who do not participate in HMIS, like domestic violence service providers, sent their own anonymous sheltered counts to be included in the Point-in-Time Count.

The Homelessness By-Name List

Each month, Lane County uses HMIS data to publish an estimate of the number of people experiencing homelessness in the county at some point during the month. This is published on the Homelessness in Lane County, OR Tableau page. The criteria for this report is more expansive than what is used for the HUD PIT Count, because it looks at all services and data collected during the month rather than on one night.

On May 29, 2025, Lincoln County Circuit Court Senior Judge Thomas Branford sentenced Danny Hicks (59-year-old Polk County resident) for eleven counts of felony sex crimes that were discovered during several undercover law enforcement child luring investigations. During these investigations, officers used online social media platforms to pose as 5 different underage children to investigate online crimes involving children.

A Lincoln County jury listened to evidence presented during a three-day trial and on May 16, 2025, found Danny Hicks guilty of five counts of Online Sexual Corruption of a Child in the Second Degree, five counts of Luring a Minor, and one count of Purchasing Sex with a Minor. The jury also found the conduct included five separate incidents or criminal episodes which occurred over the course of three months. This case was prosecuted by District Attorney Jenna Wallace. Following the guilty verdict, Senior Judge Branford held Danny Hicks in custody pending sentencing.

Hicks was previously convicted in 2021 of Online Sexual Corruption in the Second Degree and Luring a Minor (Lane County) and was placed on three years of supervised probation. Hicks’ probation ended in July 2024 and he began chatting with the Lincoln County undercover law enforcement profiles in September 2024. Through the course of the communications, Hicks repeatedly expressed his desire to meet up and engage in sexual conduct with individuals he believed were children under the age of 16. Hicks also sent sexually explicit photos and videos, including videos of others engaged in sexual acts, bestiality, and home-made masturbation videos. In one chat thread, Hicks offered to pay the minor to engage in group sex with Hicks and two of his friends at a local hotel. Ultimately, the evidence showed that Hicks communicated sexually with five different undercover law enforcement profiles in Lincoln County, and he was arrested in November 2024.

At sentencing, DA Wallace emphasized the need to hold Hicks accountable with a significant prison sentence given his prior conviction for similar conduct and his persistent sexualized engagement with five separate purported children. Defendant asked the Court to sentence him to the minimum sentence of 2 years, arguing that because the accounts were controlled by law enforcement and not real children, the harm was not as great.

Senior Judge Branford disagreed stating, “Yes, it wasn’t a 14-year-old-girl, but [you] thought it was and [you] thought it was on five different occasions.” Senior Judge Branford went on to state, “Children need to be protected from this type of behavior because it is terribly harmful to children…You knew there were police stings out there, you alluded to that in your statements to police, but this behavior was enticing enough to you that disregarded that because you needed the thrill”. He then sentenced Hicks to a total of 12.6 years in prison. Hicks will not be eligible for any alternative incarceration program and will have to register as a sex offender upon his release.

These crimes were investigated by Lincoln City Police Sergeant Hayden Tolzman, as well as Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Detective Christopher Marks and Deputy Garret Brawdy. The Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office would like to acknowledge and thank both agencies for recognizing the importance of these undercover operations in protecting our children from online predators and dedicating already limited resources to proactively fighting crime. 

The Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office encourages parents to monitor their children's social media activity and discuss with them the possible dangers of communicating with strangers online. These investigations are conducted in a continuing effort to protect our children from predators who target children for sexual exploitation and to reduce crime and further enhance the safety of our community.

Any questions can be directed to DA Jenna Wallace at jwallace@co.lincoln.or.us.

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Salem, Oregon man was sentenced to federal prison Friday for possessing and trafficking more than 40 pounds of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and heroin.

Rico Anthony Russell Rigutto, 46, was sentenced to 108 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release.

According to court documents, on December 14, 2021, as part of a drug trafficking investigation, investigators arranged a controlled buy of counterfeit oxycodone pills from Rigutto. Investigators observed him arrive and depart the meeting location, after which they conducted a traffic stop on Rigutto.  

Investigators searched Rigutto’s vehicle and seized approximately 3,000 counterfeit pills containing fentanyl and a firearm with a machine gun conversion switch. Machine gun switches, sometimes referred to as “Glock switches,” are small attachments used to convert firearms from semi-automatic to fully-automatic.

Later the same day, investigators obtained and executed a search warrant on Rigutto’s residence. During the search, investigators located and seized 20,000 counterfeit pills containing fentanyl, 28 pounds of methamphetamine, six pounds of heroin, approximately $100,000 in cash, and fifteen firearms, including an AR-15 rifle and another handgun with a conversion switch.

On January 19, 2022, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a four-count indictment charging Rigutto with possessing fentanyl, methamphetamine, and heroin with the intent to distribute and possessing a machinegun in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

On April 18, 2023, Rigutto pleaded guilty to possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute. However, on March 5, 2024, Rigutto failed to appear for his sentencing and an arrest warrant was issued.

On August 2, 2024, the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) located and arrested Rigutto for failing to appear. USMS also found a firearm during the arrest.

This case was investigated by the FBI and the Salem Police Department. It was prosecuted by Scott M. Kerin, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 80 to 100 times more powerful than morphine and 30 to 50 times more powerful than heroin. A 2-milligram dose of fentanyl—a few grains of the substance—is enough to kill an average adult male. The wide availability of illicit fentanyl in Oregon has caused a dramatic increase in overdose deaths throughout the state.

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

If you or someone you know suffers from addiction, please call the Lines for Life substance abuse helpline at 1-800-923-4357 or visit www.linesforlife.org. Phone support is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also text “RecoveryNow” to 839863 between 2pm and 6pm Pacific Time daily.

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PORTLAND, Ore.— An Estacada, Oregon, man is facing federal charges today after he was caught transporting 270 pounds of methamphetamine from Southern California to Oregon.

Anthony Barrera, 29, has been charged by criminal complaint with possessing methamphetamine and cocaine with the intent to distribute.

According to court documents, during an investigation of an alleged drug trafficker, later identified as Barrera, investigators learned Barrera rented a vehicle and traveled to California to pick up large quantities of drugs to distribute and sell in Oregon.

On May 24, 2025, officers located Barrera driving the rental vehicle northbound on Interstate 5 and followed him to a rest area near Roseberg, Oregon, where Barrera was arrested without incident. Agents executed a federal search warrant on the rental vehicle and seized 270 pounds of methamphetamine and two pounds of cocaine, which were concealed in the backseat and cargo area of the vehicle. Later the same day, investigators executed a federal search warrant on Barrera’s residence where they seized two firearms hidden under the floor of a closet.

Barrera made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was ordered detained pending further court proceedings.

The case is being investigated by the FBI and the Multnomah County Dangerous Drug Team (DDT). It is being prosecuted by Charlotte Kelley, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. 

The Multnomah County DDT is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) and is composed of members from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Multnomah County Parole and Probation, Gresham Police Department, the FBI and U.S. Marshals Service (USMS). 

The Oregon-Idaho HIDTA program is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives.

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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ROSEBURG, Ore., May 27, 2025 — Umpqua Community College Performing and Visual Arts presents “Moment's Notice in Concert” on June 26 at 7:00 p.m. at Whipple Fine Arts Center on the UCC campus. The concert will feature trumpeter John Gronberg, pianist Louis Faro, bassist Jason Heald, and percussionist Clint Newell performing a wide range of jazz styles from well-known standards to high-energy fusion.

The concert is a fundraiser for the UCC Music program.

Admission is available at the door or at umpqua.edu/community, $15.00 for general admission, $10.00 for seniors, and students are free. For more information, contact 541-440-4691 or music@umpqua.edu.

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 umpqua.edu.

Medford, OR – Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Oregon in conjunction with the United Rotary Clubs of Southern Oregon and Jackson County Library Services hosted a special read-along event featuring the First Lady of Oregon at the Jackson County Public Library in Medford. On May 21st, families with young children attended a special morning of storytelling and celebration of early literacy. The First Lady read “The Rabbit Listened,” written and illustrated by Cori Doerrfeld.

"Reading aloud to children is one of the most powerful ways to nurture a love of books and build essential literacy skills," says Oregon's First Lady. "I'm thrilled to participate in this special event at Jackson County Public Library and support Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, which is making such a meaningful difference for Oregon's children and families. When we invest in early literacy, we're investing in our state's future."

The program provides free, high-quality books mailed directly to children from birth until their fifth birthday and is now available to children in every county and zip code across Oregon. The United Rotary Clubs of Southern Oregon, in partnership with the Jackson County Library Services, have been instrumental in bringing the Imagination Library to local families. The event featured interactive storytelling led by the First Lady, followed by information for families on how to register their children for the book gifting program.

"We were honored to welcome the First Lady to our library for this special read-along event," says Kari May, Jackson County Library Services Library Director. "The partnership between our library and Dolly Parton's Imagination Library perfectly aligns with our goal to inspire curiosity and nurture learning at every age. This program has already touched the lives of so many children in our community, and we're excited to help more families discover this wonderful resource."

"Events like this highlight the power of community partnerships in promoting early literacy," says Kaylee Chrystal, Community Engagement Coordinator, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Oregon. "The Imagination Library is about more than just delivering books—it's about creating joyful moments between children and their caregivers that inspire a lifelong love of reading. We're grateful to the First Lady for her support and to the Jackson County Public Library and United Rotary Clubs of Southern Oregon for their dedication to reaching every child in their community."

Currently, over 66,000 Oregon children—approximately 30% of all children under age five in the state—receive books through Dolly Parton's Imagination Library each month. The program is completely free for families, with costs covered through a partnership between local program partners, The Dollywood Foundation, and the State of Oregon through the Department of Early Learning and Care.

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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 270 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 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 and 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.

Today, the Oregon Senate passed HB 2385-B, helping protect Oregonian’s ability to get 340B program medications at community pharmacies close to home. The hospital association is grateful for the Senate’s support, especially Sen. Patterson, Sen. Reynolds, and Sen. Campos, who played a key role in securing the bill’s passage.

“Today, Oregon policymakers took action to protect care for vulnerable Oregonians—whether they are served by a federally qualified health center or their community hospital—and make sure that Oregonians in every corner of our state can get the medications they need close to home,” said Sean Kolmer, executive vice president of external affairs at the Hospital Association of Oregon.

Though the 340B program has been in place for more than 30 years, it has recently come under attack from drug companies. HB 2385-B protects a health care organization’s ability to contract with pharmacies to improve access for patients, especially in rural areas.

"The 340B program is a vital lifeline for rural hospitals like Columbia Memorial, allowing us to stretch limited resources and provide essential care to vulnerable populations," said Chris Laman, a pharmacist and vice president of strategy at Columbia Memorial Hospital in Astoria. "Thanks to 340B, we're able to reinvest savings into critical community services that would otherwise be unsustainable—such as dental care for Medicaid or uninsured patients, maternity services, and mental health programs."

Oregon is ranked second in the country for the fewest pharmacies per capita, making it difficult for Oregonians to get the medications they need. Restricting use of community pharmacies means people would need to travel to their local hospital, creating additional barriers to care.

Oregon community hospitals and federally qualified health centers aren’t the only ones facing attacks by drug companies. Several other states like Arkansas, Maryland, and Louisiana have passed legislation. Additionally, 27 states are considering legislation in 2025 that would enshrine protections for the use of community pharmacies.

“Oregonians should be able to get the prescriptions they need from a federally qualified health center or community hospital or other 340B participating organization,” said Kolmer. “HB 2385-B is an opportunity for lawmakers to make it easier for everyday Oregonians to access the care they need.”

The bill now heads to the House for a concurrence vote.

The Oregon Bankers Association (OBA) is proud to announce Tracy Curtis, former regional president for Wells Fargo in Oregon and Southwest Washington, as the recipient of the 2025 Linda W. Navarro Trailblazer Award.

The Linda W. Navarro Trailblazer Award, named after OBA’s former longtime CEO, was established in 2024 to honor extraordinary women in banking who have not only achieved remarkable success in their careers but who lead with courage, elevate others, and have left lasting contributions to the banking industry. Curtis exemplifies all of this and more.

A native of England, Curtis began her Wells Fargo career in 1988 as a teller. With humility, determination, and an unwavering commitment to people, over the next 37 years she rose through the ranks to become a respected regional bank president. In that role, she oversaw the customer service, sales, and community involvement activities of nearly 800 team members across 74 branches in northern Oregon and Southwest Washington.

Curtis has guided her teams and organization through pivotal moments in the industry — from the financial crisis to the pandemic — always with clarity, resilience, and grace. She is recognized as much for her strategic acumen as for her deep compassion and personal leadership style. Known among colleagues as “the calm in the storm,” she is celebrated for her ability to inspire confidence, nurture talent, and foster resilience in every team she leads.

“She lifts others as she climbs,” said one colleague. “Especially women. She challenges the status quo, pushes for inclusion, and ensures every voice is heard.”

Her influence extends well beyond the workplace. A dedicated community advocate, Curtis has served on numerous boards, including Cascade AIDS Project, Self Enhancement Inc., Portland Trail Blazers Foundation, Raphael House, The Mighty Endeavor, and the Oregon Bankers Association. Her work supports causes ranging from LGBTQ+ health and domestic violence prevention to youth empowerment and veteran engagement. Within Portland’s LGBTQ+ community, she is not only respected — she is cherished.

Curtis’s legacy is one of transformational leadership and unwavering commitment to lifting others. She is admired not only as a trailblazer in banking, but as a mentor, community champion, and role model for the next generation.

The award’s inaugural recipient, Linda Navarro, had the honor of presenting the 2025 Trailblazer Award to Curtis.

“Tracy is a trailblazer in every sense of the word, and she has achieved it all with a style that is uniquely her own,” said Navarro during the luncheon ceremony.

Tracy Curtis’s career is a testament to the power of purpose-driven leadership. Her impact on the banking industry, her teams, and the broader community will continue to inspire for years to come.

The Oregon Bankers Association extends its heartfelt congratulations to Tracy Curtis on this well-deserved recognition.

MEDIA ADVISORY: TUESDAY, MAY 27

Nurses and community members are rallying to win fair contracts at two Samaritan hospitals and protect local residents’ access to healthcare as Samaritan considers cuts. 

WHAT: Rally for a fair contract and to defend residents’ access to healthcare at Samaritan hospitals from the Mid-Valley to the coast.

WHERE: Samaritan Health Services corporate headquarters (815 NW 9th St. Corvallis, OR)

WHEN: Tuesday, May 27 from 4 - 6 p.m. Speeches at approximately 4:45 p.m.

• Community members can email Samaritan decisionmakers here to ask them to save local birth centers and preserve access to essential care.