As summer heats up and the Fourth of July approaches, the City of Bend, Bend Police Department and Bend Fire & Rescue want to remind everyone about local rules on fireworks—and why they matter.

Fireworks are not allowed anywhere within Bend city limits, per City Ordinance. This ban is in place because even small fireworks can quickly spark fires, putting people, homes, and our surrounding landscape at risk during dry summer conditions.

Each year, fireworks cause injuries, structure fires, and wildfires across the state. In a place like Bend, where wildfire risk is high, one spark can have serious consequences for neighbors, first responders, and the community.

City ordinance prohibits the sale, possession, and use of fireworks. This means fireworks cannot be sold in stores or tents in Bend, and fireworks purchased elsewhere may not be brought into the city for use.

While the use of fireworks is not generally an emergency, if fireworks use is creating an immediate danger to people or property, please call 911.

If you’d like to report fireworks activity in Bend, you can email fireworks@bendoregon.gov. These reports help us understand where activity is occurring but will not prompt an immediate response.

Independence Day is one of the busiest times of year for first responders. We ask the community to help by leaving fireworks out of your plans. Doing so helps reduce preventable emergencies and ensures crews are available when they’re needed most.

Learn more at bendoregon.gov/fireworks.

Thank you for helping protect your neighbors, your community, and Bend’s natural beauty this summer.

This year’s July 4 Pilot Butte public fireworks display presented by Subaru of Bend will commence at approximately 10 p.m. on Saturday, July 4, 2026. Community members will have limited access to Pilot Butte State Park in Bend from July 1-5 as preparations are made for the July 4 public fireworks display.

Bend Fire & Rescue, in collaboration with the Oregon State Parks Department, asks that the community observe the restrictions in place for everyone’s safety:

• The summit and the access road to the summit will close to all visitors beginning at 9:30 p.m. on June 30 through the afternoon of July 5 following clean-up operations.
• All trails and roadways except for the summit, will be accessible to pedestrians only beginning at 10 p.m. on June 30 through July 3.
• Full closure of all trails and roadways begins July 4 through the afternoon of July 5 following clean-up operations.
• The main parking area at the base of Pilot Butte, off Linea Drive, will be open during the fireworks show. Please do not block emergency access roads or public and private streets, as this can delay a response to an emergency.
• Pets are not permitted in the park during the show.

Signs, barricades and security will be placed at the closure points on the butte. For the safety of all, please respect the closed areas and do not attempt entry.

Bend Fire and Oregon State Parks would like to recognize and thank the local Boy Scout Troops that help clean the butte each year after the display. Also, a huge thank you to the local fire crews from the U.S. Forest Service and the Oregon Department of Forestry for assisting with the fire safety on the butte during the display. Without their support each year, this show would not be possible.

For more information about the display and butte preparations, please contact Oregon State Parks at (541) 388-6055 or Bend Fire at (541) 322-6386.

Personal Fireworks Are Not Permitted in Bend

Bend Fire also reminds the community that the use and sale of fireworks is not allowed in Bend. The July 4 public display at Pilot Butte is permitted by the Oregon State Fire Marshal and managed by professionals. For information on fireworks laws, permitting and reporting, please visit bendoregon.gov/fireworks.

ORCHARD COMBAT TRAINING CENTER, Idaho — Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers demonstrated an innovative new approach to one of the Army's most dangerous battlefield tasks during annual training June 22, using a heavy-lift drone to remotely deliver and detonate a live Bangalore torpedo through a wire obstacle.

PR 03-26

BONNEVILLE POWER ADMINISTRATION

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 29, 2026
CONTACT: Kevin Wingert, BPA, 503-230-4140

Kavulla sworn in as BPA’s 17th administrator

PORTLAND – Travis Kavulla was sworn in today as the new administrator and CEO of the Bonneville Power Administration by U.S. Under Secretary of Energy Kyle Haustveit, becoming the 17th administrator in BPA’s 89-year history. Kavulla will oversee BPA’s vital mission of delivering affordable, reliable and secure power to the Northwest. 

“The Northwest is blessed with abundant hydropower as you all know, and it has provided critical power for Americans for decades. And it will continue to do so for decades to come. You all, along with the work you do and the infrastructure you support, are deeply woven into the fabric of the Northwest,” said Hausveit during a ceremony in Portland. “Travis, I look forward to partnering with you and with all of you at BPA… It’s a unique time in history, and I believe Travis is the right person to answer the call and serve our country.”

BPA faces several unique challenges and opportunities, ranging from significantly expanding transmission infrastructure to best position the region for exponential load growth and exploring new energy markets to upholding statutory obligations such as mitigating the impacts of the federal power and transmission system on fish and wildlife.

U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright, who announced Kavulla’s appointment on June 22, noted the pivotal timing of Kavulla’s leadership.

“This Administration is committed to restoring American energy dominance and your leadership is essential in delivering real, measurable results for the American people,” Wright wrote in a welcome letter to Kavulla. “I encourage you to bring your bold ideas forward and help us accelerate and expand energy production. This is a pivotal moment for America and for DOE.”

Kavulla brings more than 15 years of experience as an energy policy expert and state regulator to this role. He has dedicated his career to developing solutions for affordable, reliable energy in a highly complex industry, focusing on streamlining policies to meet growing power and transmission demands while protecting existing customers from the costs of system upgrades.

He most recently served as the Head of Policy for Base Power Company and as the vice president of Regulatory Affairs at NRG Energy. Previously, Kavulla served eight years as a commissioner at the Montana Public Service Commission, including as chairman, and is a former president of the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners.

“I have served nearly a decade previously in public service, on behalf of the people of Montana, and to join the senior executive service of the United States Government to serve the nation and this region feels like a continuation of that vocation, a calling I could not resist,” Kavulla said during the swearing-in ceremony. “In the coming months, I look forward to getting to know Bonneville’s customers, the region’s members of Congress, and our state and tribal partners. I trust you will not be circumspect about your opinions, and as anyone who knows me can attest, I value an open dialogue, a good debate, and even friendly disagreements as we together work to accomplish shared goals.”

“We have hurdles to overcome, and I am clear-eyed about the enormous task ahead of us. But I am also filled with optimism for BPA’s and the region’s future,” Kavulla added. “My confidence stems in large part from BPA’s workforce, which has a strong reputation for being highly skilled and deeply committed—driven intrinsically to succeed on behalf of the millions of people relying on you.”

Throughout his career, Kavulla has advocated for common-sense policies that deliver value for electricity consumers, including major ratemaking and cost-allocation proceedings impacting both small and large utility customers. In addition, he served on several committees and councils providing policy leadership related to transmission planning, governance and reliability.

Kavulla received a bachelor’s degree in history from Harvard University and has a master’s in history from the University of Cambridge. He is also a lecturer at the University of Chicago’s Harris School of Public Policy.

A recording of the swearing-in ceremony can be found at the following link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C0AmLb9_MVQ

A full copy of Travis Kavulla’s remarks can be found here:

https://www.bpa.gov/-/media/Aep/about/who-we-are/20260629-swearing-in-remarks-travis-kavulla.pdf

About BPA The Bonneville Power Administration is a federal non-profit power marketing administration that delivers reliable, low-cost hydropower produced in the Columbia River Basin as well as the output from the region’s only nuclear plant to communities across the Northwest. BPA also owns and operates more than 15,000 circuit miles of high-voltage transmission lines. More information about these and other activities is available on our Media Relations page.

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PORTLAND, Ore. – With national firefighting resources already stretched to their limits, statewide fire restrictions remain in effect for all Bureau of Land Management public lands throughout Oregon and Washington. Local regions have also implemented additional emergency closures.

As the Independence Day holiday weekend approaches, officials warn that individuals responsible for starting wildfires face up to $100,000 in fines, 12 months in prison, and liability for all firefighting suppression costs.

“There are serious consequences for starting a wildfire, including fines and possibly imprisonment, which we hope everyone can avoid through careful choices,” said Josh O’Connor, Northwest Geographic Area Fire Chief for the U.S. Wildland Fire Service. “We have already experienced excruciating loss this season. I cannot stress the gravity of the situation enough. Please help protect our firefighters and communities.”

Visitors should research their destinations in advance, as local restrictions address questions of when visitors can use power tools, what kinds of stoves or campfires are allowed, and what type of safety equipment to have on hand.

The following items remain strictly prohibited on all BLM lands in Oregon and Washington:

• Fireworks and sky lanterns
• Exploding or metallic targets
• Tracer or incendiary devices
• Steel component ammunition (core or jacket)

“Lighting a firework or leaving a smoldering campfire creates significant wildland fire risk. Under the right conditions, they easily start wildfires,” said Kim Prill, BLM Oregon/Washington Acting State Director. “Don’t risk it. Let’s work together to prevent every wildfire possible.”

For more information on seasonal fire restrictions and fire closures, please see www.blm.gov/orwafire.

-BLM-

The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.
 

The U.S. Wildland Fire Service conducts operations in close coordination with the Bureau of Land Management. As a unified federal entity under the Department of the Interior, the USWFS integrates expertise to streamline wildfire prevention, response and recovery under our shared mission to foster fire-resilient landscapes and safeguard communities across America’s public lands.

Repeat Sex Offender Sentenced to 27 years

for Victimizing Minors Online and Possessing Child Sex Abuse Material

Former CEO Pleads Guilty to $24,000,000 Embezzlement Scheme

Repeat Offender Sentenced To 180 Months In Prison For Drug Trafficking

Defendant Sentenced to 78 Months for sourcing Spokane-Area IPO Blood Criminal Street Gang

SALEM – At its June 25-26, 2026 meeting, the Land Conservation and Development Commission (LCDC or commission) recognized the service and contributions of two commissioners whose term had concluded: Commissioner Barbara Boyer and Commissioner Lianne Thompson. Commissioner Boyer served on the commission for a four-year term, bringing expertise in agriculture, working lands, and Oregon’s rural business opportunities. Commissioner Thompson, who also completed a four-year term, shared her enthusiasm and insight about working with diverse communities including Oregon federally recognized Tribes, as well as her broad experience as a coastal county commissioner. Both Boyer and Thompson were key stewards of some of the most relevant and impactful rulemaking in the commission’s recent history; reforming housing planning in the state of Oregon, defining cultural resources as they relate to Oregon’s Tribes, and the Farm Forest Modernization Project among many other accomplishments.

“Commissioner Boyer shared her vast experience with resource lands when there was an opportunity,” said Commission Chair, Allan Lazo. “And, she spoke with equal acumen to urban issues, including housing, economic development, and transportation.”

“Commissioner Thompson brought such a generous wisdom to LCDC conversations,” said DLCD Director, Brenda Bateman. “From economic development to rural issues, she always considered the impact of commission decisions on all Oregon communities.”

On June 16, the Oregon Senate confirmed Erin Skaar, Angel Falconer, and Stef Kondor to serve as commissioners on the LCDC, and reconfirmed LCDC Chair Allan Lazo to another four-year term as a metro-area representative

Commissioner Erin Skaar will represent Oregon’s coast. She is a seated Tillamook County Commissioner who has worked on housing at the local level with the Housing Commission and Community Development Departments in Tillamook County. Former Executive Director of Community Actions Resources Enterprises and founding member of the Tillamook County Housing Task Force, Commissioner Skaar currently serves as the President of the Association of Oregon Counties (AOC) and leads its executive committee.

“As an advocate for Oregon counties and the president of the Association of Oregon Counties, I’m deeply motivated to elevate the economic, development, infrastructure, and resource needs of counties across Oregon,” stated Commissioner Skaar. “The opportunity to serve on the Land Conservation and Development Commission is a way to access the interconnected nature of our different government, leadership, and industry sectors through the lens of land use planning, which is something that unites all of Oregon.”

Commissioner Angel Falconer serves on the Forest Grove City Council and will represent the northern Willamette Valley. Prior to service on the City Council, Falconer was a Planning Commissioner for Forest Grove. She has held many volunteer and public service positions including on the Clackamas County Water Environment Services Advisory Committee, the board of Housing Land Advocates, and Milwaukie City Council. Her experience with local land use planning and implementation is extensive.  

“I’m focused on promoting abundant and affordable housing, supporting diverse and accessible transportation options, ensuring adequate land for jobs and industry, enhancing and protecting natural resources, and building resilient and sustainable infrastructure in Oregon,” shared Commissioner Falconer. “This position on the commission is both an honor and an opportunity to learn. My goal is to create opportunities for Oregonians to live healthy, connected, and prosperous lives.”

Commissioner Stef Kondor will fill the second of two metro-area positions on the Commission. She is the Executive Vice-President of Development for Related Northwest and has overseen the creation of more than 1,500 affordable housing units in her 13-year career in real estate development. Her work focuses on envisioning and developing affordable housing projects that support underserved communities while incorporating systems designed to help families thrive. She leads development efforts with an emphasis on collaboration and collective input. Previously, Commissioner Kondor served on the Portland Housing Advisory Commissions and the Portland Inclusionary Housing Stakeholder Committee.

“While the work of the commission and the land use goals are diverse, most of the decisions made by this body impact where people live. In this meeting, we learned a lot about coastal protection, natural resources protection, and economic development. Each of these issues has a relationship to housing,” said Commissioner Kondor. “Oregon’s housing and homelessness crisis has been an ongoing and desperate problem. As an affordable housing champion dedicated to building safe communities for families in need, I am excited to bring my experience in local leadership, finance, asset management, and development to these important conversations.”

Each of the incoming commissioners will serve a term that began on June 22, 2026, and will end June 21, 2030. In 2030, all three commissioners will be eligible for reappointment of another full four-year term.

DLCD Director Brenda Bateman is enthusiastic. “The housing expertise our new commissioners bring to the table is irrefutable,” she said. “As an agency, we want to do our part to meet housing needs across the state; I could not be more grateful to these talented commissioners for volunteering their service.”

Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation is warning people about a recently detected fraud ring that is signing up people for life insurance without their knowledge or consent. The fraud, which targets mostly older adults, has been found in multiple states, including Oregon.

Here is how the fraud, which involves licensed insurance agents, works:

Victims receive multiple telemarketing calls in which they tell the telemarketer personal information. The information collected during these telemarketing calls is then shared with the insurance agents participating in the fraud ring. The agents then cold call the victim to obtain any additional personal information needed to complete an application for a life insurance policy, which gets submitted without the victim’s knowledge or consent. The life insurance policy, or in many cases multiple policies,  is issued and the agent is paid a commission for the sale of the policy, even though the policy has not yet been paid for at this point. When the insurance company attempts to collect the first premium payment, the fraud is discovered..

“Because the insurance company is paying upfront commissions to the agents, the companies are experiencing high losses as a result of this fraud ring,” said TK Keen, Oregon insurance commissioner and DFR administrator. “Additionally, the victims of the fraud ring are being targeted for other scams and schemes, putting them at risk for future fraud.”

DFR has a website with tips to help protect yourself from fraud. Among those tips are the following:

• Sign up for the National Do Not Call Registry.​​
• ​​Do not answer the phone if you do not know the caller. If you do answer, hang up if it is a robot, a stranger, or someone pressuring you.
• If you do not know the sender, do not respond to texts, emails, or click on a link.​​
• ​​Question everything. If you do not understand something, do not sign it or agree to it.
• Never give personal identifying information to strangers.
• ​​Ask your credit card company and bank if they can put a fraud alert on your accounts.
• ​​Monitor your financial accounts regularly.
• Consider enlisting a trusted family member or reputable bill-paying service. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging for help with routine payments.
• Execute a power of attorney only if you have someone you trust completely, and only after consulting with an attorney. Be sure to ask about gifting clauses, and limit the power you give your selected person. Only grant authority that is necessary.​​

DFR’s consumer advocates are always there to help with questions or to file a complaint. You can reach them at 1-888-877-4894 (toll-free) or email .InsuranceHelp@dcbs.oregon.gov">DFR.InsuranceHelp@dcbs.oregon.gov for insurance help and .financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov">dfr.financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov for financial services help.

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About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

Tillamook State Forest, Ore. — As the busy summer season gets into high gear this upcoming special 250th July 4th weekend, the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) is encouraging families, hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders and nature lovers of all types to consider exploring Oregon’s less-traveled state forest campgrounds.

Unlike high-traffic destinations across state forests or state parks that book up months in advance, some of ODF’s campgrounds still offer space for summer adventurers. These quieter sites provide a chance to unplug, unwind, and connect with the outdoors—all while supporting sustainable recreation and forest education.

“Oregon’s state forests are special spaces for everyone,” said Ben Burns, ODF’s Recreation, Education, and Interpretation Program Facilities Manager. “Our developed recreation sites provide opportunities for recreationalists of all sorts. Whether you're camping, hiking, mountain biking, riding horses, or just enjoying the trees, you're able to find a place for you in Oregon’s state forests, our common ground.”

Some of the top recommendations:

Morrison Eddy Campground – Camp Among Giants

Nestled beneath towering Douglas-firs along the banks of the Nehalem River, Morrison Eddy Campground offers a quiet forest escape where visitors can relax among some of the Tillamook State Forest's most impressive trees. With easy river access and spacious campsites, it's an ideal destination for campers looking to unwind in a beautiful natural setting.

• Camp Among Giants: Six spacious walk-in campsites nestled beneath mature Douglas-firs that create a peaceful, shaded camping experience.
• River Access: Walk from your campsite to the Nehalem River to fish, swim or just explore.
• Easy Access: A newly constructed parking area provides convenient access to all campsites, with a vault toilet and garbage service nearby.
• Explore More: Morrison Eddy is conveniently located near Spruce Run Campground, Nehalem Falls Campground, and Lost Lake, making it a great basecamp for exploring the area.

"If you love towering trees and flowing water, Morrison Eddy Campground is hard to beat," said Burns. "You can truly camp among giants, surrounded by mature Douglas-firs with the river just steps away. It's one of those places where you can slow down and really enjoy everything the forest has to offer."

A quick reminder about camping in equestrian areas: those sites with corrals and other horse amenities are just for those with horses. However, there are designated tent sites at ODF horse camps and those are the spaces that are often available and open to anyone. Remember that horses are large animals that can be spooked by those who are unfamiliar with them. Always maintain your distance and don’t approach horses without the express permission of their human.

Northrup Creek Horse Camp – A Hidden Gem for Horseback Riders and Campers

Whether you're exploring the forest on horseback or simply looking for a relaxing place to camp, Northrup Creek Horse Camp provides a scenic base for your adventure. Designed primarily for equestrians, the campground includes eight campsites with corrals and trailer parking, as well as three drive-up tent sites. Three of the corral sites are open to campers without horses who want to enjoy the quiet surroundings.

• Equestrian-Friendly: Eight spacious sites with 4-horse corrals and trailer parking.
• Trails to Explore: Trail networks start right at camp, offering scenic forest rides and hikes for all non-motorized users.
• Simple Amenities: Vault toilets, a hand-pump water source, and manure bins maintain the rustic charm of the site.
• Shared Experience: While designed for horseback riders, Northrup—and all ODF-managed equestrian campgrounds—also welcomes hikers, backpackers, trail runners, and families.

Reservations are required for all horse camps, and as of now, sites are still available for July 4th and Labor Day weekend. For full details and to reserve your spot, visit ReserveAmerica then enter the name of the campground.

Other Less Crowded Options:

In addition to Northrup Creek, ODF manages several equestrian campgrounds that typically enjoy lower visitation, even during busy summer weekends. These campgrounds are also primarily designed for equestrian use but like Northrup, some of the corral sites are available for campers without horses:

• Santiam Horse Camp (Santiam State Forest): Incredible views, newly added tent sites and a robust trail system.

• Stagecoach Horse Camp (Tillamook State Forest): This quiet campground is close to excellent trails such as the University Falls Trail and the Wilson Wagon Road Trail.

• Reehers Camp Horse Camp (Tillamook State Forest): With 10 designated equestrian sites and 7 drive-up tent sites, there is something for everyone at Reehers. A beautiful pavilion, access to the river and several trails spanning from the campground and Day Use Area.

Whether you're saddling up, lacing up your hiking boots, or simply seeking peace beneath the trees, these hidden gems offer a chance to enjoy Oregon’s forests without the crowds.

See ODF’s Recreation, Interpretation and Education website for a complete list of state forests recreation areas.

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Jaylynn O’Hara, age 16, who went missing from Eugene near Alton Baker Park on June 29. They are believed to be in danger. 

ODHS asks the public for help in the effort to find Jaylynn O’Hara and to contact 911 or local law enforcement if they believe they see Jaylynn. 

Jaylynn O’Hara is suspected to be in the Eugene area but may also be in Springfield or Corvallis. 

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. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child. 

Report suspected 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. 

Child Legal Name: Jaylynn O’Hara

Child Preferred Name: Jaylynn

Pronouns: She/her

Age: 16

Height: 5-foot-7

Weight: 220 pounds

Hair color: Dark brown

Eye color: Blue 

Specific Identifying Characteristics: piercings: Industrial left ear, septum, nose both nostrils, upper lip snake bite

Eugene Police Dept. Report #26-09846

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) Report #:  2093355

Date Missing: 6/29/26

Suspected and/or frequented location(s):  Eugene-Station 7, New Roads, Hosea Youth Shelter, 7-11 on 8^th and HWY 99, Skinner’s Butte

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June is Reunification Month, a time to highlight the importance of strengthening families so children can return home after a child welfare intervention.

Child welfare practice has evolved nationally over the past 20 years to reflect a better understanding of trauma prevention and how to improve outcomes for children. The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) has been a leader in this shift, implementing changes to staff trainings, community engagement and child welfare practice that prioritizes keeping families together.

In the past, child welfare systems often emphasized removing children from families, focusing less on stabilizing families for successful reunification. Current child welfare best practice follows research showing better outcomes for children and families when parents experiencing poverty, substance use disorder and other stressors receive supports alongside services to support change and safety in the home. These services can range from economic assistance to substance use treatment and teaching parenting skills.

To better address the causes of family stress and instability, ODHS has improved collaboration between programs. In 2022, Child Welfare and Self-Sufficiency Programs launched the Family Preservation pilot to better serve families with open child welfare cases. To prepare families for reunification, Child Welfare partners with Self-Sufficiency Programs to provide safety planning, respite care and access to substance use disorder treatment or mental health services. They also ensure parents have adequate support networks. Help can also include assistance with housing, food and transportation to address hardships families face and reduce stress.

Having a caring and supportive team in place to advocate for families is an important part of reunification. Self-Sufficiency Programs’ family coaches partner with Child Welfare caseworkers to build relationships through frequent face-to-face visits. Families can rely on this team to encourage them and celebrate their progress. This new approach is a significant change from practices of the past that fostered distrust and left families feeling unsupported.

Amandah was one of those parents.

Amandah first interacted with Child Welfare in 2018 while experiencing substance use disorder. Years of substance use, rooted in family patterns that began early in life, led her to experience some deep losses, including the termination of parental rights to one of her children. Two of her children went on to live with their father, and for years she believed reunification with her oldest child was impossible.

For much of Amandah’s life, she felt as though systems designed to help were working against her. When she reached out for support, she felt that her vulnerability was used as evidence that she was unfit. Amandah’s most recent experience with ODHS Child Welfare and Self-Sufficiency Programs was very different. This time, she experienced staff from both Child Welfare and Self-Sufficiency collaborating with her to be successful in her recovery from addiction. Her caseworker approached her with respect and clarity, telling her, “You don’t have a parenting problem, you have a drug problem.” That simple truth shifted everything. The focus then turned to healing, accountability and remaining connected to her children.

ODHS provided financial and housing supports, including transitional housing for Amandah after she completed inpatient treatment. ODHS also supported the family with baby clothing, a car seat and household cleaning supplies for her new home. Her child welfare case is now closed, and she is living independently.

Amandah’s hope is that every family is given the same chance to change and heal. “A good case manager who truly cares about you and believes in you makes all the difference in the world,” she said.

Amandah is now confident in her role as a mother, and says with her daughter by her side, there is nothing she cannot work through. Today, she is rebuilding her own family and helping others do the same.

When asked about her dreams for the future, Amandah said she would like a house for her kids and grandkids. “I want a home for them to come to when they need support, and a place where we can create new traditions. I want something I can hand down to them and their families.”

Resources

Read about reunification practice (also known as family preservation) in the 2026 First Quarter ODHS Child Welfare Progress Report to the Governor.

More than half of participants who complete Oregon's SNAP Employment and Training program are employed shortly afterward.

Salem, Ore. — More than half of SNAP participants who complete Oregon’s SNAP Employment and Training (STEP) program are employed shortly afterward, according to data reported to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Administration.

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is highlighting the success of these services as more Oregonians seek support navigating federal changes to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) work or activity rules.

"Employment and training services can help people achieve more than compliance with a requirement," said Jessica Amaya Hoffman, Oregon SNAP Director. "They help people build skills, connect with employers and create opportunities that can support them long after they leave SNAP."

Before connecting with WorkSource Oregon, Isla was facing uncertainty after becoming unemployed while caring for a family member. She had long dreamed of continuing her education but wasn't sure how she would make it happen. Through the SNAP Employment and Training (STEP) program, she received support, guidance and resources that helped her move forward. Today, she is continuing her education and working toward her goal of starting her own business.

"It has always been a dream of mine to better myself and show my kids you can always go to school and educate yourself no matter the age," said Isla. "My plans for the future are to have my own company and a great job of my choosing."

Stories like Isla’s are common among participants in Oregon’s STEP program. According to USDA Food and Nutrition Administration data, 57% of Oregon STEP participants are employed shortly after completing the program, one of the highest rates in the nation.

The STEP program connects SNAP participants with free employment and training services through partnerships between ODHS, STEP providers, the Oregon Employment Department, local workforce development boards and other community organizations throughout Oregon.

Services may include:

• Career coaching and employment planning
• Resume development and interview preparation
• Education and training opportunities
• Job search assistance
• Connections to local employers
• Help addressing barriers that can make it hard to find work or complete training

Many participants use these services to gain new skills, complete training programs, increase earnings or enter a new field.

Federal changes to SNAP work rules have increased the number of Oregonians who may need to meet work or activity rules to maintain food benefits. Employment and training services can help participants meet those requirements while building skills that support long-term employment success.

ODHS is also encouraging people to contact the ODHS ABAWD team (1-833-947-1694 or AWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.gov">SNAP.ABAWDTeam@odhsoha.oregon.gov) if they have questions about SNAP work or activity rules. Some people may qualify for an exemption and not realize it. Others may benefit from employment and training services that can help them maintain benefits while working toward their career goals. ODHS provides the referral for people to access these supports.

Since January 2026, more than 25,600 people have lost benefits because they didn’t meet work or activity rules.

"If you think SNAP work or activity rules may apply to you, your best next step is to contact ODHS," said Hoffman. "We can help you understand your options and connect you with services that support your goals."

For more information about SNAP work rules and exemptions:

• English: Oregon.gov/snapworkrules
• Spanish: Oregon.gov/snapnormastrabajo

ODHS ABAWD Team:

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

For more information about SNAP benefits:

• Online: benefits.oregon.gov
• Call the ONE Customer Service Center: 1-800-699-9075
• In person or by phone: at any ODHS office

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, is thankful for the community support to find Armani Andrews.

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. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

Report suspected 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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CORRECTION NOTICE: This alert has been corrected to clarify and accurately report that Armani Andrews went missing on June 17.

(Salem) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Armani Andrews, age 2, who went missing from Portland on June 17. They are believed to be in danger.

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

Armani Andrews is suspected to be in the Portland area.

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. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

Report suspected 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.

Child Legal Name: Armani Andrews

Child Preferred Name: Armani

Pronouns: He/Him

Age: 2

Height: 24’ about

Weight: unknown

Hair color: brown

Eye color: brown

Specific Identifying Characteristics: Black/African American Mixed race

Portland Police Bureau Case #PP185430

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) Report #: 2093182

Date Missing: 6/17/2026

Suspected and/or frequented location(s): Rose Haven, Multnomah County Central Library, SE Portland around 82^nd-103^rd

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Video interviews and b-roll footage can be downloaded from Vimeo.

ALBANY, Ore. — More than 130 Oregon high school students from 17 counties, 28 schools and 24 cities spent the week at Camp Ready2Respond, a hands-on workforce development and disaster preparedness program designed to build skills, confidence and career pathways while strengthening Oregon’s disaster readiness.

The weeklong camp brought together students, educators, industry leaders, emergency management professionals and community partners at the Knife River Training Center in Albany. Students participated in a realistic disaster response and recovery scenario while gaining hands-on experience in construction, culinary arts, medical and safety operations, emergency communications and public information.

Students were organized into six villages: three builder villages, one culinary village, one medical and safety village and one communications village. Together, they worked on real-world response and recovery tasks that mirror the coordination needed after a disaster.

As of noon on Thursday, June 25, students were six hours ahead of schedule and had 10 emergency shelter units under construction. The shelters include four 8-by-8 units and six 8-by-12 units that will support disaster preparedness, temporary housing and community resilience efforts across Oregon.

“Camp Ready2Respond is a tremendous return on investment. For every dollar invested here, we are seeing five, six or seven dollars’ worth of impact in other areas. We are magnifying the taxpayer investment while building a group of young people who are ready to take care of themselves and take care of others,” said Jim Taylor, Production and Development Manager of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at Oregon Housing and Community Services.

Camp Ready2Respond demonstrates how public-private partnerships can prepare Oregon’s future workforce while helping communities become more resilient before, during and after disasters. Students had opportunities to build technical skills, practice teamwork, learn from professionals and explore careers connected to construction, manufacturing, emergency management, health and safety, communications and other fields.

“Many of the people ODHS serves, including older adults, people with disabilities and people living in poverty, are often the most impacted by disasters and fires. Programs like Camp Ready2Respond help Oregon respond more quickly so people can stay connected to their communities and have their functional needs met,” said Liesl Wendt, ODHS Director.

Camp Ready2Respond is supported by Team Oregon Build, the Oregon Department of Human Services, Oregon Housing and Community Services, the Oregon Department of Education, Oregon Department of Forestry, Oregon Department of Emergency Management and 14 partner organizations.

For immediate release: June 30, 2026

Media Contact: communications@employ.oregon.gov

Workers Can Use Paid Leave Oregon to Care for Loved Ones with Alzheimer's

Salem, Ore.  — During Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, Paid Leave Oregon is reminding workers they may qualify for paid family leave when they need time away from work to care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease.

Alzheimer’s and dementia affect thousands of Oregon families. About 79,000 Oregonians age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s, and 188,000 family caregivers provide an estimated 291 million hours of unpaid care across the state each year.

“Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s means going to appointments, helping with daily needs, or stepping in when a care plan suddenly changes,” said Andrew R. Stolfi, director of the Oregon Employment Department. “Paid Leave Oregon helps ensure workers do not have to choose between a paycheck and being there for a loved one who needs care.”

Paid Leave Oregon provides paid time off for eligible workers who need to care for a family member with a serious health condition. Alzheimer’s disease is specifically named in Oregon’s administrative rules as an example of a condition that may involve permanent or long-term incapacity. Eligibility depends on the worker, the need for leave, and verification from a health care provider.

“Paid Leave Oregon recognizes that caregiving is not one-size-fits-all,” said Juan Serratos, director of Paid Leave Oregon. “For some families, care may mean taking full weeks away from work. For others, it may mean taking a day at a time for appointments, safety needs, or changes in care. As the disease progresses, care needs change. Paid Leave is designed to help eligible workers take the time they need when a serious health condition affects someone they love.”

Under Oregon’s rules, care can include physical assistance with basic medical, daily living, safety, or nutritional needs; transportation to a health care provider; comfort or reassurance; administrative tasks; or arranging changes in care.

Workers can take Paid Leave in full weeks or one day at a time, allowing Oregonians to tailor their leave to their loved one’s needs. Paid Leave Oregon’s definition of family member includes many relationships, including spouses and domestic partners, children, parents, siblings, grandparents, grandchildren, and any person connected to the worker like a family member.

Workers who think they may need leave should inform their employer, gather documentation from a health care provider, and apply through Frances Online.

To learn more or apply, visit paidleave.oregon.gov.

About Paid Leave Oregon

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

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For Immediate Release: June 30, 2026

Media Contact: don@employ.oregon.gov">seth.c.gordon@employ.oregon.gov

Work Share gives Oregon employers an alternative to layoffs

SALEM, Ore. — Oregon employers considering layoffs can turn to the Oregon Employment Department’s Work Share program to reduce short-term costs and retain skilled employees. When business slows down, participating employers can reduce staff hours but continue to support their employees with partial Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits to help offset reduced wages.

“Work Share gives employers of all sizes the opportunity to strategize, not downsize,” OED Director Andrew R. Stolfi said. “When times are tough, it offers more options to reduce staffing costs, and that flexibility is a critical tool in any industry. Work Share keeps valuable teams together and helps businesses ramp back up quickly when conditions improve.”

The program protects employees from many of the hardships of a full layoff, including keeping benefits intact despite work hours dropping below full-time. Unlike traditional Unemployment Insurance, Work Share does not require claimants to search for jobs while receiving benefits, but they must remain fully able and available to work for their employer each week.

“Being a specialty surgical practice, we have many ups and downs, and Work Share has helped us avoid multiple layoffs,” said Chelsea Brown of Portland-based Oregon Weight Loss Surgery. “Most of our staff have been here for 10 years or more, so they’re critical to our business. Work Share has helped us keep all of them.”  

There are currently more than 500 employers enrolled. To be eligible, employers must have at least three employees who are paid Oregon wages; however, seasonal and temporary workers may not participate. There are no program fees and no obligation to use the program after signing up for Work Share.

“We recommend applying proactively so employers have a plan in place if they need it,” Unemployment Insurance Division Director Lindsi Leahy said. “When business is slow, being able to access the program’s benefits quickly can bring some peace of mind. We want all Oregon employers to know that Work Share is here to provide a viable alternative to layoffs.”

OED hosts a weekly Work Share informational webinar for employers at 10 a.m. on Tuesdays, or employers can call 503-947-1800 to ask questions or schedule a consultation. Once signed up, employers and claimants can also attend weekly webinars for guidance on navigating the program. More information is available on the Work Share website.

About Unemployment Insurance

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

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July 1, 2026

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

Enjoy outdoors, avoid bites: OHA shares summer mosquito prevention reminder

Simple steps can reduce risk of serious mosquito-borne illnesses

PORTLAND, Ore.—As mosquito activity increases during the summer months, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is reminding residents and visitors to take precautions against mosquito bites and reduce exposure to West Nile virus, the most common mosquito-borne disease in the state.

Mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus are detected in Oregon every year, primarily in eastern and southern parts of the state, though infected mosquitoes have been found throughout the Pacific Northwest. Public health works closely with local vector control districts to identify areas where the virus is circulating in the mosquito population.

West Nile virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. The virus can infect humans, birds, horses and other animals. Mosquitoes become infected after feeding on infected birds and can then spread the virus through subsequent bites.

“Summer is a great time to enjoy Oregon's outdoors, but it's also the time of year when mosquito activity is at its highest,” said Emilio DeBess, D.V.M., public health veterinarian at OHA's Public Health Division. “Most people infected with West Nile virus may not develop symptoms, but some can become seriously ill, especially those over 50. Taking a few simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk.”

About one in five people infected with West Nile virus develop a fever and flu-like illness that can include headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea or rash. Adults 50 and older, people with weakened immune systems, and those with certain underlying health conditions are at greater risk for severe illness. In rare cases, the virus can cause severe neurological disease affecting the brain or nervous system.

People experiencing a high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, muscle weakness, tremors or paralysis should contact a health care provider right away.

Here are tips to reduce breeding sites at home:

• Eliminate standing water around potted plants.
• Empty water from buckets, birdbaths, pet dishes and other containers at least once or twice each week.
• Clean clogged gutters and drainage areas.
• Remove old tires, unused containers and outdoor debris that can collect water.
• Regularly inspect areas under decks and shrubs, and around outbuildings where water may accumulate.

Tips to protect yourself outdoors:

• Use an EPA-registered insect repellent and follow label instructions.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks when mosquito activity is high.
• Consider limiting outdoor activities during dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
• Use mosquito netting over infant carriers and strollers.
• Repair or install window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of homes and buildings.

Additional information about West Nile virus, mosquito prevention and surveillance activities in Oregon is available on OHA's West Nile virus webpage.

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July 1, 2026

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

Recreational use advisory issued for Agency Lake July 1

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory today for Agency Lake due to the presence of cyanotoxins above the recreational use value (RUV).

A recreational use health precaution has been in place since May 21 due to the presence of a visible harmful algae bloom. The lake is in Klamath County.

People should avoid swimming and other water activities with a high risk of swallowing water or inhaling water droplets in areas of the lake where blooms are present. Ingestion or inhalation of water is the exposure route of concern. Toxins are not absorbed through the skin. However, those with skin sensitivities may get a puffy red rash.

OHA’s RUVs are designed to protect the most vulnerable, including children, who have a higher activity level and are more likely to swallow water while recreating.

OHA encourages people to visit Agency Lake and enjoy activities such as fishing, camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, bird watching, canoeing, and kayaking. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray. Sprays could lead to the risk of inhaling cyanotoxins.

Drinking water

Drinking water directly from areas of the lake affected by a bloom is especially dangerous. Toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering or treating water with camping-style filters. Contact campground management or the local health department with questions about water available at nearby campgrounds or day use areas.

Not all private treatment systems are effective at removing cyanotoxins. People who do not use a well or public water system and draw in-home water directly from an affected area are advised to use an alternative water source for drinking and cooking.

Symptoms for people, pets

Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure because of their size, level of activity, and likelihood of swallowing water.

For people, exposure to cyanotoxins can be serious and cause a range of symptoms. Symptoms may be similar to food poisoning such as stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Symptoms may also be more serious, such as numbness, tingling, dizziness and shortness of breath. These symptoms may require medical attention.

Dogs can get extremely ill and even die within minutes to hours of exposure to cyanotoxins by drinking the water, licking their fur, or eating the toxins from floating mats or dried crusts along the shore. This is regardless of whether a recreational use health advisory in place. Symptoms in dogs can include difficulty walking, seizures, lethargy, and loss of appetite, and more.  If a dog exhibits symptoms, veterinary treatment should be sought as quickly as possible. OHA recommends keeping dogs on leashes, away from affected water and mat material, to help reduce the chance of exposure.

Fishing

Fish caught from areas where cyanobacteria blooms are present may pose unknown health risks, so OHA recommends not eating fish from those areas. Those who decide to eat the fish should remove fat, skin and organs, where toxins are more likely to build up, before cooking or freezing. Fillets should also be rinsed with clean water.

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

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July 1, 2026

Contact: Kristen Lambert, isten.lambert@oha.oregon.gov" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Kristen.lambert@oha.oregon.gov

Oregon introduces limited nutrition benefits for OHP members with complex health needs

New benefits will help improve health outcomes and reduce health care costs.

Salem, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is introducing two new nutrition benefits for eligible Oregon Health Plan (OHP) members: a fruit and vegetable benefit and a pantry stocking benefit. These supports will help people with serious health conditions—such as chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and cancer—access the healthy foods they need to help manage their conditions and avoid unnecessary emergency care. More information on eligibility requirements and how to request services is available on OHA’s Nutrition Benefits web page.

“These nutrition benefits give providers another important tool to help people stay healthy,” said OHA Director Dr. Sejal Hathi, MD, MBA. “When people have reliable access to nutritious food, they can better manage their health—which reduces emergency visits, lowers hospital readmissions, and helps bring down medical spending overall.”

What the nutrition benefits include

Starting July 1, 2026, eligible OHP members may receive up to six months of support through the fruit and vegetable benefit or the pantry stocking benefit. To qualify, members must meet all of the following: 

• Have a qualifying health condition, such as a complex physical or behavioral health need 
• Have a qualifying life situation, such as recently being discharged from incarceration or treatment, being pregnant, at-risk of homelessness, or being an OHP member with Young Adult with Special Health Care Needs benefits 
• Have low or very low food security 
• Any benefit-specific requirements 

The fruit and vegetable benefit covers fresh, frozen, canned, or packaged options, including items like applesauce. The pantry stocking benefit includes foods such as meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, bread, cooking oils, and spices. Depending on their health plan, members may receive grocery box deliveries or a preloaded card they can use at participating stores.

A coordinated statewide launch

To help ensure the nutrition benefits reach eligible members who need them most, especially in rural areas of the state where provider availability and nutrition resources can be limited, OHA has been working closely with Oregon’s 15 coordinated care organizations (CCOs) and nutrition providers. Throughout this process, OHA used direct feedback from CCOs and providers to simplify key operational steps, including eligibility requirements and authorization processes. These steps will help reduce administrative burden and make it easier for eligible members to access services quickly.

As part of a statewide readiness review, each CCO identified nutrition providers in its region and worked to build network capacity to meet expected demand when the benefits launch. This included partnering with community-based organizations—such as Rogue Food Unites—that are already deeply connected to local food systems and community needs.

“Access to food is a fundamental human right. At Rogue Food Unites, our mission has always been to use food as a tool for healing and resilience, especially during times of crisis,” said Amber Ferguson, Executive Director of Rogue Food Unites. “We’re excited to serve as a HRSN nutrition provider and to expand access to food for community members who are economically insecure and living with underlying health conditions. By partnering with locally invested businesses, we’re able to provide fresh, nutritious food that supports individual and community health while also strengthening local economies.”

Reaching communities with the greatest needs

The federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) approved Oregon’s ability to provide these benefits, along with nutrition education and Medically Tailored Meals, under Oregon’s 1115 OHP Demonstration Waiver, which remains in effect through September 30, 2027. Oregon’s 1115 waiver also includes housing benefits and access to devices to keep eligible OHP members healthy during extreme weather, such as air conditioners and air filters.

Recent HRSN data highlight both strong need for and broad reach of HRSN benefits across the state. Several rural counties—including Josephine, Wallowa, Linn, and Columbia—have some of the highest rates of members receiving HRSN benefits. Additionally, more than half of members who have received an HRSN benefit report having one or more disabilities, compared with 24 percent of the overall OHP population, underscoring the importance of these services in supporting members with higher and more complex needs. Additional data can be found on OHA’s Data about Medicaid Health-Related Social Needs Benefits web page.

How OHP members can request benefits

Members can learn more about eligibility and how to request services on OHA’s Nutrition Benefits web page. 

• Members enrolled in a CCO can access CCO request forms from OHA’s HRSN Nutrition web page or can contact their CCO directly.
• Open Card members can contact Acentra at 1‑888‑834‑4304 or email ORHRSN@Acentra.com. 

For general questions, members can call OHP Client Services at 1‑800‑273‑0557.

Additional food resources

The Oregon Department of Human Services’ Food Resources in Oregon web page offers additional resources for people who may not qualify for the nutrition benefits or who need immediate support. 

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June 29, 2026

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

Recreational use advisory downgraded to precaution for Lake Billy Chinook

Pet owners should continue to keep their pets away from areas that appear to have a bloom

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has downgraded the recreational use health advisory to a precaution for Lake Billy Chinook in Jefferson County.

OHA issued the advisory June 12, 2026.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Lake Billy Chinook are below recreational guideline values for people however a bloom is still present and levels detected are still above OHA’s educational guideline values for dogs, and owners should keep their pets away from these areas.

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

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

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

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

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SALEM, Oregon –  Applications open today, July 1, 2026, for heritage organizations statewide to apply for free technical assistance from the Oregon Heritage MentorCorps. Organizations applying to this program will receive support from volunteer professionals to address priority projects or organizational challenges over a nine month period. Mentors have expertise that spans the heritage spectrum including museums and collections management, archives, digitization, oral history work, non-profit management, disaster preparedness, project planning, prioritization, interpretation & education, volunteer & events coordination, and more.

The role of MentorCorps is to help Oregon’s museums, libraries, archives, and cultural institutions navigate unfamiliar endeavors and supplement the expertise of staff and volunteers during one-on-one sessions. Common requests for assistance include:

• grant reviews
• collections assessments
• policy development
• prioritization of work
• project planning
• outreach and public engagement

Mentors are located across the state and services are available in person and/or virtually.

 “Mentors are vital resources that empower small organizations with practical support,” says Cam Amabile, MentorCorps Coordinator for Oregon Heritage. “Capacity building is at our core – where our cadre of professionals seek to share lessons learned, develop local practitioners’ skillsets, and incrementally encourage best practices in Oregon’s heritage preservation institutions one mentorship at a time.”

MentorCorps began as a pilot program over a decade ago funded by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services and is now an ongoing technical assistance program of the Oregon Heritage Commission. This program supports the Oregon Heritage Plan, a statewide plan for heritage preservation efforts to unite around common goals.

This service is offered free to any heritage organization operating within the state of Oregon, but primarily serves museums, libraries, archives, and cultural institutions. Eligible organizations include independent nonprofits as well as those institutions operated by cities, counties, tribal nations, and other government entities.

Applications open July 1, 2026 and close on August 15, 2026 for the 2026-2027 assistance year. Organizations can reach out to Oregon Heritage Technical Resources Coordinator, Cam Amabile with questions about projects or applications at 971-720-8998 or ile@oprd.oregon.gov">cam.amabile@oprd.oregon.gov.

(SALEM, Ore.) – The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking public comment and will hold a hearing on proposed updates to the Local Government Grant Program administrative rules.

The Local Government Grant Program provides financial assistance to eligible local governments for the acquisition, development, rehabilitation and planning of public outdoor recreation areas and facilities throughout Oregon.

The proposed rule updates are limited in scope and are intended to implement the requirements of Senate Bill 1585 (2026) and make a minor administrative clarification. The proposed changes update grant match requirements for eligible cities as required by state law and revise the definition of "local government" to align with state statute.

The proposed updates are intended to ensure the program's administrative rules remain consistent with current law while maintaining existing program administration.

How to submit comments

Public comments on the proposed rule changes will be accepted from July 1, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. through July 31, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. You can submit written comments on the rulemaking web page, by email to lic.comment@oprd.oregon.gov">public.comment@oprd.oregon.gov or by mail to:

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department
Attn: Robert Ellison
725 Summer St. NE, Suite C
Salem, OR 97301

A virtual public hearing will be held on July 21 at 2:00 p.m. to allow members of the public to provide testimony. Register to provide public comment on Zoom. 

What's next

Once the public comment period closes, OPRD staff will review all comments, make revisions as appropriate, and present the proposed rules to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission for consideration.

For more information, visit the Local Government Grant Program rulemaking web page.

(SALEM, Ore.) – The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking public comment and will hold a hearing on proposed updates to the archaeological permit rules.
 

OPRD made substantial updates to the archaeological permit rules in July 2023. Since then, OPRD has been monitoring the effectiveness of the new rule. The agency has determined the rules require better defined steps for the dispute resolution process, including informal negotiations, mediation, and arbitration in the event of a permit dispute.

OPRD is proposing additional minor modifications to the definitions, permit application revision procedures, and Oregon Qualified Archaeologist requirements.

How to submit comments

Public comments on the proposed rule changes will be accepted from July 1, 2026 at 8:00 a.m. through July 31, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. You can submit written comments on the rulemaking web page, by email to lic.comment@oprd.oregon.gov">public.comment@oprd.oregon.gov or by mail to:

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department
Attn: Helena Kesch
725 Summer St. NE, Suite C
Salem, OR 97301

A virtual public hearing will be held on July 21, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. to allow members of the public to provide testimony. Join the hearing via Zoom. Registration is required to provide public comment.

What’s next

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

For more information, visit the rulemaking web page.

Accommodations

Individuals who require special accommodations to view the meetings should contact Helena Kesch at least three days in advance of the meeting at helena.kesch@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-881-4637.

Borrow an Oregon State Parks parking permit for free at 82 libraries statewide.

(SALEM, Ore.) – Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (ORPD) and the State Library of Oregon are partnering to offer free state parks parking permits to Oregon public libraries. There are currently 200 parking permits available at 82 libraries across the state.

“Oregon’s state parks are for everyone,” said OPRD deputy director JR Collier. “As we assess ways to manage our budget responsibly, we also want to uplift equitable access to our parks.”

Each participating library received up to four parking permits. These are the physical hang tags you check out from the library and put in your car. The permit covers parking in all Oregon State Parks day-use areas for one vehicle. Go to the Oregon State Parks website to find participating libraries. All you need to participate is your library card.

“Libraries help make life more affordable for Oregonians. This program leverages the existing borrowing system to help connects folks of all income levels with the beauty and splendor of Oregon’s State Parks,” said Wendy Cornelisen, State Librarian.

Both OPRD and the State Library contributed 100 parking permits to the program to distribute to libraries. The agencies determined how many passes each library would receive based on interest from the library, its proximity to a park charging a day use fee, and the size of the population it serves. The State Library purchased permits with Library Services and Technology Act funds from the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services.

OPRD first distributed parking permits to 28 libraries as part of a year-long pilot program starting in August 2024. Those passes were checked out more than 2,100 times. At the pilot’s conclusion, OPRD evaluated how to best move the program forward in the context of its changing fees. In 2027, OPRD and the State Library will continue to explore options for an expanded long-term program that will serve even more libraries and people in Oregon.

Learn more about the OPRD Library Pass Program.

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved the 2026–2028 Wildfire Mitigation Plans for Idaho Power (UM 2209), Portland General Electric (UM 2208), and Pacific Power (UM 2207). These plans detail how utilities will reduce utility wildfire risk, strengthen system resilience, and protect communities during increasingly severe wildfire seasons as risk models evolve in urban and rural areas to reflect changing conditions.

The Commission also adopted the PUC staff recommendations for additional improvement across the utilities’ programs to support greater transparency, stronger modeling practices, and further demonstration of cost-effective mitigation investments.

Each approved plan includes enhanced vegetation management, inspection and maintenance programs, system hardening, situational awareness tools, increased community outreach, and Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) procedures. PSPS events remain a last resort to reduce the risk of utility equipment igniting wildfires in hazardous weather conditions.

The wildfire mitigation plans are required under Senate Bill 762 (2021), which directs electric utilities in Oregon to identify areas of heightened wildfire risk within their service territories, develop measures to reduce ignition risks, and outline PSPS protocols during dangerous conditions.

“Today’s approval reflects the Commission’s continued commitment to ensuring Oregon’s electric utilities are planning responsibly, transparently, and proactively in the face of escalating wildfire risk,” said PUC Chair Letha Tawney. “These plans help keep communities safer, and we encourage all Oregonians to take steps now to prepare for extreme weather and potential outages.”

Preparing for the 2026 wildfire season and potential PSPS events

• Register for emergency alerts from local and state authorities and sign up for outage notifications from your electric utility.
• Develop a household emergency plan and make sure all family members understand evacuation procedures.
• Create defensible space around your home by reducing vegetation and other fuels.
• Be two-week ready with essential supplies, including food, water, medications, batteries, and pet needs.
• Keep phones and medical devices fully charged ahead of high-risk weather.
• Ensure your utility account information is up to date so you can receive emergency notifications.
• Customers who rely on electricity for medical needs should contact their utility about medical certification programs and consider backup power options.

During an outage or PSPS event:

• Report outages to your utility and stay far away from downed power lines.
• Use flashlights instead of candles and operate generators outdoors and away from buildings.
• Unplug appliances except refrigerators and freezers to protect against power surge damage.
• Check on neighbors, especially older adults or individuals with access or functional needs.
• Stay cool by keeping blinds closed, staying hydrated, and accessing community cooling spaces if needed.

PUC Vegetation Management Program

In addition to reviewing wildfire mitigation plans, the PUC conducts independent inspections of utility infrastructure and vegetation management practices in high fire risk areas. The PUC evaluates whether electric utilities are maintaining proper vegetation clearances, addressing hazards promptly, and meeting statewide and national safety standards. These inspections ensure accountability and contribute to reducing wildfire ignition risk.

Learn more about wildfire preparedness at wildfire.oregon.gov. 

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UM 2207, UM 2208, UM 2209

The Oregon State Marine Board, in partnership with marine law enforcement across the state, will be participating in Operation Dry Water, July 3^rd through July 5^th, as part of a nationally coordinated effort to reduce the number of accidents and fatalities related to boating under the influence of intoxicants (BUII).

BUII includes consumption of prescription drugs, alcohol, inhalants, marijuana, or any combination impairing a person’s ability to operate a boat safely. The effects of drugs and alcohol are amplified on the water due to the combined impacts of environmental stressors like sun glare, wind, wave motion, and other factors. Alcohol also dehydrates the body, making sudden immersion into cold water increase the risk of drowning, particularly if the person is not wearing a life jacket.

Impaired boaters face serious penalties. The consequences of a BUII conviction include possible jail time, a $6,250 fine, and loss of boating privileges. Marine officers can legally obtain blood, breath, or urine if a boater fails field sobriety tests. If a boat driver retrieves a boat from the water onto a boat trailer, they could be charged with Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants (DUII).

“Recreational boating is a relatively safe activity when boating sober, wearing life jackets, and staying aware of the surroundings,” says Brian Paulsen, Boating Safety Program Manager for the Marine Board. So far this year, the common denominators for boating fatalities are not wearing a life jacket, falling overboard, and alcohol consumption.

If you see an impaired operator or someone who is operating in a way that threatens others’ safety, boaters are encouraged to call 911 to file a report. Remember the boat type and characteristics, number of passengers, describe the observed behavior, nearest boat ramp, and, if possible, the boat’s registration number/letters at the bow.

For more information about Operation Dry Water, visit www.operationdrywater.org.

-End-

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Mexican national unlawfully residing in the United States has been indicted after investigators seized over 17.5 pounds of narcotics, firearms, and cash, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon.

Baltazar Plata Bringas, 31, has been charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and unlawful possession of a firearm.

According to court documents, on May 26, 2026, investigators arrested Plata Bringas during a drug deal and found approximately 17 bags of methamphetamine in his car. In total, Plata Bringas had more than 8 kilograms of methamphetamine. Investigators searched Plata Bringas’ residence and found firearms and approximately $25,000.

Plata Bringas was arraigned on June 24, 2026, in federal court, pleaded not guilty, and ordered detained pending further court proceedings.

The Drug Enforcement Administration is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Kerin is prosecuting the case.

This case was investigated and prosecuted by the Oregon Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) as part of Operation Take Back America. HSTFs, which were established by President Trump in Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion, are joint operations led by the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide federal initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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TACOMA, Wash., (June 25, 2026) – Nearly two-thirds of Washington businesses say they are prioritizing investment over cost-cutting, according to new data released today by Columbia Bank. While half of Washington business leaders will continue to monitor inflation, tariffs and broader economic conditions before making major investment decisions, most remain focused on growth opportunities with the expectation that demand, revenue and profitability will increase over the next 12 months.

The findings are from Columbia Bank’s 2026 Business Barometer, an annual study examining the outlook, priorities and decision-making of nearly 1,200 small and midsize enterprises across the United States, including businesses with significant sales, employees and operations in Washington.

Top Regional Priorities: What is Driving Decision-Making for Washington Businesses?

Washington business leaders express a measured but growth-oriented outlook for the year ahead, balancing economic concerns with continued investment in expansion.

• Most Washington businesses are more focused on growth rather than cost-cutting, with 64% saying they are prioritizing investment, compared with 33% who are focused primarily on reducing expenses. At the same time, 54% say they plan to wait at least six months before making major business decisions.
• Despite being less optimistic about revenue expectations (59% compared to 67% nationally), Washington businesses continue to report strong expectations for growth. Nearly eight in 10 businesses (79%) expect demand to increase over the next year, while 59% expect profitability to improve.
• Washington businesses are relatively inclined to invest in their business compared to the national average, with local leaders saying they are very or somewhat likely to borrow to invest in expansion (74%) and acquire another business (52%).
• Washington businesses are less inclined to increase headcount over the next 12 months (37%) than most businesses (51% nationally). 

Recent advances in AI capabilities are in part driving the 12-month outlook. Washington businesses are more optimistic about the impact of AI than most businesses, with 77% saying it will strengthen their business. More than four in five Washington businesses (78%) expect AI to help with employee satisfaction and retention.

While tariff impact has fallen out of as a top concern for many businesses since last year, it still ranks as a top three concern for Washington businesses. Input from business leaders indicates that the unpredictability of tariff implementation has been more challenging than direct tariff costs, as delays, exemptions and shifting percentage amounts have made planning difficult.

• 46% expect trade volatility, tariff impacts to last one to two years.
• 58% will seek tariff refunds.

To download Columbia Bank's 2026 Business Barometer, visit: www.columbiabank.com/business-barometer.

Survey Methodology
The Columbia Bank 2026 Business Barometer, conducted annually, surveyed 1,186 owners, executives and financial decision-makers from U.S. small and middle market businesses. The online survey was conducted in partnership with DHM Research, a public policy and business research firm, and targeted leaders at companies with $500,000 to $500 million in annual revenue. The survey, which did not filter for Columbia Bank customers, has a 2.7% margin of error and was fielded from April 28 to May 7, 2026.

About Columbia Bank
Columbia Bank is an award-winning preeminent regional bank with offices in Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and Washington. It combines the resources, sophistication, and expertise of a national bank with a commitment to deliver superior, personalized service. The bank supports consumers and businesses through a full suite of services, including retail and commercial banking, Small Business Administration lending, institutional and corporate banking, and equipment leasing. Columbia Bank customers also have access to comprehensive investment and wealth management expertise as well as healthcare and private banking through Columbia Wealth Management.

TACOMA, Wash., (June 25, 2026) – Nearly two-thirds of Washington businesses say they are prioritizing investment over cost-cutting, according to new data released today by Columbia Bank. While half of Washington business leaders will continue to monitor inflation, tariffs and broader economic conditions before making major investment decisions, most remain focused on growth opportunities with the expectation that demand, revenue and profitability will increase over the next 12 months.

The findings are from Columbia Bank’s 2026 Business Barometer, an annual study examining the outlook, priorities and decision-making of nearly 1,200 small and midsize enterprises across the United States, including businesses with significant sales, employees and operations in Washington.

Top Regional Priorities: What is Driving Decision-Making for Washington Businesses?

Washington business leaders express a measured but growth-oriented outlook for the year ahead, balancing economic concerns with continued investment in expansion.

• Most Washington businesses are more focused on growth rather than cost-cutting, with 64% saying they are prioritizing investment, compared with 33% who are focused primarily on reducing expenses. At the same time, 54% say they plan to wait at least six months before making major business decisions.
• Despite being less optimistic about revenue expectations (59% compared to 67% nationally), Washington businesses continue to report strong expectations for growth. Nearly eight in 10 businesses (79%) expect demand to increase over the next year, while 59% expect profitability to improve.
• Washington businesses are relatively inclined to invest in their business compared to the national average, with local leaders saying they are very or somewhat likely to borrow to invest in expansion (74%) and acquire another business (52%).
• Washington businesses are less inclined to increase headcount over the next 12 months (37%) than most businesses (51% nationally). 

Recent advances in AI capabilities are in part driving the 12-month outlook. Washington businesses are more optimistic about the impact of AI than most businesses, with 77% saying it will strengthen their business. More than four in five Washington businesses (78%) expect AI to help with employee satisfaction and retention.

While tariff impact has fallen out of as a top concern for many businesses since last year, it still ranks as a top three concern for Washington businesses. Input from business leaders indicates that the unpredictability of tariff implementation has been more challenging than direct tariff costs, as delays, exemptions and shifting percentage amounts have made planning difficult.

• 46% expect trade volatility, tariff impacts to last one to two years.
• 58% will seek tariff refunds.

To download Columbia Bank's 2026 Business Barometer, visit: www.columbiabank.com/business-barometer.

Survey Methodology
The Columbia Bank 2026 Business Barometer, conducted annually, surveyed 1,186 owners, executives and financial decision-makers from U.S. small and middle market businesses. The online survey was conducted in partnership with DHM Research, a public policy and business research firm, and targeted leaders at companies with $500,000 to $500 million in annual revenue. The survey, which did not filter for Columbia Bank customers, has a 2.7% margin of error and was fielded from April 28 to May 7, 2026.

About Columbia Bank
Columbia Bank is an award-winning preeminent regional bank with offices in Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and Washington. It combines the resources, sophistication, and expertise of a national bank with a commitment to deliver superior, personalized service. The bank supports consumers and businesses through a full suite of services, including retail and commercial banking, Small Business Administration lending, institutional and corporate banking, and equipment leasing. Columbia Bank customers also have access to comprehensive investment and wealth management expertise as well as healthcare and private banking through Columbia Wealth Management.

Beginning July 3, 2026, the City of Richland will begin construction on the northern half of the Columbia Playfield parking lot as part of a project to improve safety, accessibility, and the overall condition of the facility.

The project includes full reconstruction of the existing pavement surface, stormwater drainage improvements, new parking lot striping, and the installation of parking lot lighting.

During construction, the northern section of the parking lot will be closed to the public. Access to the Columbia Playfields will remain available off Stevens Drive through the Mansfield Street entrance.

As part of the project, improvements to the ADA and maintenance access serving George Prout Pool will take place during the first two weeks of July. To safely accommodate this work, George Prout Pool will be closed to all users from July 3 through July 12. The pool is scheduled to reopen for public use on July 13.

The parking lot west of the pool will remain open throughout construction. Temporary ADA accommodations will be provided from the western section of the parking lot to maintain accessible access to the facility while work is underway. Additional parking will be available in the Columbia Playfield south parking lot and along Swift Blvd.

Construction of the northern parking lot is expected to be completed in early fall 2026. The northern parking lot will remain closed for the duration of the project. Residents and visitors are asked to obey all posted construction signs, barricades, and detours to help ensure the safety of both the public and construction crews.

The City appreciates the community's patience during construction as these improvements are completed.

The City of Richland reminds residents that several City facilities will be closed in observance of the Independence Day holiday.

Friday, July 3 (Independence Day Observed)

• Richland City Hall – Closed
• Richland Public Library – Closed
• Richland Community Center – Closed
• George Prout Pool – Closed
• Horn Rapids Landfill – Open
• Curbside garbage, recycling, and yard waste collection – Regular schedule

Saturday, July 4 (Independence Day)

• Richland Public Library – Closed
• Richland Community Center – Closed
• George Prout Pool - Closed
• Horn Rapids Landfill – Closed

Sunday, July 5

• Richland Public Library – Open
• Richland Community Center – Open
• George Prout Pool - Closed
• Horn Rapids Landfill – Closed

Please note: George Prout Pool will be closed from July 3 – 12^th to accommodate parking lot paving at Columbia Playfields.

All other City facilities will reopen during their regular business hours on Monday, July 6, 2026.

Emergency police, fire, and medical services will operate as normal throughout the holiday weekend. Residents should call 911 only for emergencies.

To report the illegal use of fireworks, residents are asked to call the non-emergency dispatch line at 509-628-0333. Using the non-emergency number for fireworks complaints helps keep 911 lines available for emergencies requiring an immediate response.

The City also encourages residents to celebrate responsibly by following local fireworks regulations and practicing safe handling. Before lighting fireworks, know the rules where you live, keep a water source nearby, and never leave fireworks unattended. Additional information about fireworks regulations and safety tips is available at richlandwa.gov/fireworks.

The City of Richland wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable Independence Day weekend.

The City of Richland is continuing efforts to improve safety in residential neighborhoods through its Neighborhood Traffic Safety (NTS) Program, with construction of new traffic calming improvements scheduled this summer on Long Avenue, Forest Avenue, and Queensgate Drive.

The Neighborhood Traffic Safety Program is designed to improve safety and quality of life in residential areas by reducing vehicle speeds, discouraging cut-through traffic, and addressing transportation safety concerns identified by residents and evaluated by City staff. The program supports the City's Vision Zero initiative, which aims to eliminate serious injury and fatal traffic crashes through a comprehensive approach focused on education, enforcement, engineering, emergency services, and equity.

"This program allows the City to make targeted improvements in neighborhoods where traffic safety concerns have been identified and evaluated," said Carlo D'Alessandro, Public Works Director. "These projects help create safer streets for everyone, including people walking, biking, driving, and accessing neighborhood destinations."

Construction is planned at the following locations:

• Forest Avenue north of McMurray Street – Installation of speed humps
• Long Avenue between Stevens Drive and Swift Boulevard – Installation of speed humps
• Queensgate Drive between Shockley Road and Summit Street – Installation of choker curbs designed to narrow the roadway and encourage slower vehicle speeds

Work at all three locations is expected to occur between now and August 31, 2026, with schedules subject to weather and contractor availability.

Residents can expect temporary traffic impacts during construction, including lane restrictions, reduced speeds, and short-term access adjustments near active work zones. The City encourages motorists to use caution, follow posted signage, and watch for construction crews working in the area.

The project is being completed by Allstar Construction Group, Inc.

The Neighborhood Traffic Safety Program uses a data-driven evaluation process to identify and prioritize projects based on factors such as vehicle speeds, traffic volumes, roadway characteristics, crash history, and available funding. The program focuses on existing residential local and collector streets throughout Richland.

For more information about the Neighborhood Citywide Traffic Calming Enhancements, visit richlandwa.gov/Projects or contact the Public Works Department at 509-942-7500.

WALLA WALLA — Walla Walla Public Schools has been awarded a $1,066,000 interim federal grant to continue operating its Head Start program for 116 low-income children at the Walla Walla Center for Children and Families through December.

The six-month award is part of the Office of Head Start’s effort to prevent service disruptions during the transition period from July 1 through December 31, while longer-term grant applications are being released.

The district typically receives about $2 million annually in federal Head Start funding. These grants are renewed on a five-year cycle and include an allowable extension period that ensures programs can continue operating while new applications are under review. This year, the district expected a new five-year competitive application to open, but the application was not released. To allow services to continue, a six-month grant was awarded.

District officials say they will continue working closely with the Office of Head Start in the coming months to complete the reapplication process for the next five-year funding cycle.

“We are grateful to receive this critical interim funding, but the timing and communication process with our federal partner has been challenging which has caused unnecessary stress and hardship for the program,” said Director of Fiscal Services Janette Jeffris. “We hope future processes are more predictable so we can better support and communicate with our staff and families.”

Head Start programs provide early learning, health, nutrition, and family support services at no cost to eligible children from ages three to five.

Jeffris said she will continue to advocate that the district receive full funding for the 2026–2027 school year and prepare for the upcoming five-year federal grant cycle. She noted that delays in processing Head Start renewals have been increasingly common nationwide. 

“These are our youngest learners, and these programs help ensure they get a strong start in school,” Jeffris said. “We are proud of our early learning programs and remain committed to supporting families through this work.”

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Bend, Oregon, June 29, 2026 – As thousands gather in Washington, D.C. in celebration of the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary, they can experience the High Desert Museum through a featured video at the Smithsonian Institution’s Arts and Industries Building. Central Oregon’s cultural gem has its own video in the special exhibition “Voices and Votes: Exploring Democracy Across America,” at the Arts and Industries Building. The nearly four-minute video highlights the Museum’s mission, its work supporting local communities, and its collaborations with Smithsonian programs and resources.

"The High Desert Museum is proud to be a Smithsonian Affiliate,” said Dana Whitelaw, Executive Director of the High Desert Museum. “Being featured in the ‘Voices and Votes’ exhibition and having the opportunity to share our story through this video reflects the strong collaboration and partnership between the institutions.”

In the video, visitors will see the Museum’s award-winning exhibition spaces as well as Timber, the bobcat, and the Museum’s bald eagles. They will also hear from Museum Executive Director Dana Whitelaw, Senior Curator of Exhibitions and Collections Dustin Cockerham, and Community Engagement Coordinator Martha Campbell. The video highlights the Museum’s participation in the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art’s “Artful Movement” program, which helps children combine mindfulness techniques with art. The High Desert Museum is one of five sites selected for this section for the exhibition.

“Hosting ‘Voices and Votes’ on the National Mall in conjunction with the nation's 250^th offers an opportunity to show visitors the depth of engagement that results from collaborations between the Smithsonian and its partners across the country. We are delighted to feature the important work of Smithsonian Affiliates, like the High Desert Museum, in their communities to create local civic and cultural impacts,” said Kara Blond, Director, SITES | Smithsonian Affiliations.

“Voices and Votes” explores the ongoing work of democracy, from the American Revolution and the suffrage movement to civil rights and modern voting. The exhibition features sections on the origins of U.S. democracy, the struggle for voting rights, campaigning and elections, civic participation and the responsibilities of citizenship. It includes historical and contemporary photographs, video, multimedia interactives and artifacts such as campaign materials, voter memorabilia and protest items. Visitors to Washington, DC, can view the exhibition at the Arts and Industries Building through September 7, 2026.

About the High Desert Museum

The High Desert Museum is the only institution in the nation dedicated to the study of the High Desert region and the largest cultural institution in central and eastern Oregon. Since opening in 1982, the Museum has evolved into a place that annually serves almost 225,000 visitors from across the nation and cares for a collection of over 28,000 objects and 170 animals. Located in Bend, Oregon, the Museum encompasses 135 forested acres, two permanent cultural exhibitions, three changing exhibition galleries, a bird of prey center, otter exhibit, and the High Desert Ranch and Sawmill, and offers learning experiences uniquely rooted in the surrounding landscape.

The Museum was a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. In 2025, it was awarded the 2025 Autry Public History Prize for its original exhibition, Sensing Sasquatch.

About Voices and Votes: Exploring Democracy Across America
“Voices and Votes: Exploring Democracy Across America” received funding from the Smithsonian's Our Shared Future: 250, a Smithsonian-wide initiative supported by private philanthropy and created to commemorate the nation's 250th anniversary and advance the Smithsonian vision for the next 250 years.

About SITES | Affiliations

SITES | Affiliations deepens the impact of the Smithsonian beyond Washington, D.C., by bringing its high-quality content, resources and expertise to people across the nation in collaboration with museums and cultural organizations. SITES | Affiliations is home to traveling exhibitions, a vast network of Smithsonian Affiliate organizations and the MoMs program that brings the Smithsonian to rural communities across the United States and beyond. Visit nationalengagement.si.edu for more information. 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Colin Fogarty

Director of Communications

Oregon Community Foundation

ty@oregoncf.org">cfogarty@oregoncf.org

Oregon Foundations, Les Schwab Tire Centers Partner to Provide At Least $1 Million in Wildfire Preparedness Support for Rural Communities

Tires and quick-response grants going to rural fire services and the organizations working to prepare communities for wildfire season

TROUTDALE, Ore. – As Oregon heads into the July 4 holiday weekend and what is forecast to be a severe fire season, a coalition of philanthropic and business partners is helping rural fire services, government agencies and nonprofits to get ready and respond. Oregon Community Foundation, The Ford Family Foundation, the Marie Lamfrom Charitable Foundation and Les Schwab Tire Centers today announced a coordinated package of support totaling at least $1 million in grants, alongside a statewide tire donation program to strengthen rural fire agencies before fire season takes hold.

The initial commitment of at least $1 million from partner foundations and additional anonymous funders will provide quick-response grants to support the nonprofits working to prepare communities and responding when needed.

“Philanthropy doesn’t replace first responders — we work right behind them,” said Kim Koenig, OCF’s Director of Community Programs and Disaster Response.

“When a fire breaks out in a rural community, the volunteers who respond deserve equipment that works and a support system that can move quickly. We know from experience that the road to recovery after a disaster is longer than anyone wants — our Disaster Readiness and Response Fund is built to be there for the long haul, from preparation through the long period of rebuilding.”

Les Schwab Tires in-kind tire donation addresses critical need

Les Schwab Tires will donate $100,000 worth of tires from its Tires for Purpose program to Rangeland Fire Protection Associations statewide, addressing a critical and often overlooked need: fire truck tires are subject to extreme wear and heat stress during wildfire response, and replacing them is a significant operational expense for volunteer departments.

“We are excited to use our Tires for Purpose program to help make sure our Rangeland Fire Protection Associations are well equipped for safety on and off the road ahead of fire season,” said Bill Tester, Les Schwab store manager in Sandy, Oregon. “We’ve grown as a company to more than 600 stores across 15 states, but Oregon is our home. A safe and thriving Oregon matters to us. Our first responders deserve our support.”

The partners made the announcement at Gresham Fire Station #75 in Troutdale at the gateway to the Columbia River Gorge, the site of a massive wildfire in 2017.

Preparing first responders before disaster strikes

Oregon’s rural communities rely heavily on volunteer firefighters and local fire districts that operate with limited budgets and equipment. City departments like Gresham’s must be ready to fight wildfires in the places where rural and urban areas meet.

“Wildfires don’t wait until we’re ready,” said Mike Traeger, Assistant Chief of the Gresham Fire Department. “Every tire, every piece of equipment and every hour of training makes a difference when the call comes. Resources like these mean firefighters can respond faster, work more safely and stay on the fire line longer.”

The July 4 holiday weekend historically marks one of the most dangerous periods of fire season, with dry conditions, wind and human activity combining to heighten risk across the state. Add to that this year’s drought, a record-tying warm winter and low snowpack, and officials are deeply concerned about the coming fire season.

“This year is shaping up to be a bad fire year,” said John Bailey, Professor of Silviculture and Wildland Fire at the Oregon State University College of Forestry. “We can act now to prevent destructive wildfires, and that’s why this investment is so important.”

Supporting communities before, during and long after disaster

OCF’s Disaster Readiness and Response Fund brings donations starting at $25 from across the state into a single funding pool, enabling OCF to quickly deploy grants when disaster strikes. The fund supports emergency response as well as preparation — including fire mitigation, specialized equipment, training and emergency supplies — and long-term recovery.

The foundation partners are members of the Oregon Disaster Funders Network, a partnership of mission-driven organizations working to build a stronger and more resilient Oregon.

“The Marie Lamfrom Charitable Foundation is proud to stand alongside members of the Oregon Disaster Funders Network to support Oregon communities ahead of wildfire season,” said Meghan Campbell, Program Officer at the Marie Lamfrom Charitable Foundation. “Coordinated regional philanthropy has an important role to play in meeting urgent needs before and after disasters, and we are deeply grateful to the first responders who bravely care for and protect our communities.”

“Rural communities often face the greatest risks with the fewest resources, and the impacts of wildfire can last long after the flames are out,” said Kara Inae Carlisle, President and CEO of The Ford Family Foundation. “That’s why we’re coordinating with partners from the Oregon Disaster Funders Network to support rural communities as wildfire season approaches, so we can mobilize resources quickly and stand ready to respond.”
 

Apply for quick response funds.

Apply for tires.

Donate to the Disaster Readiness and Response Fund at OCF.

About Oregon Community Foundation

Oregon Community Foundation was founded in 1973 with a mission to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. In partnership with donors and volunteers, OCF works to strengthen communities in every county in Oregon through research, grantmaking and scholarships. Each year, OCF distributes more than $200 million in grants and scholarships. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, please visit oregoncf.org.

About Les Schwab Tire Centers

Les Schwab Tire Centers (www.lesschwab.com) started in 1952 with just one small tire shop in Prineville, Oregon. After more than 70 years of building on our founder’s belief in honesty, service and hard work, Les Schwab Tires is one of the leading independent tire dealers in the United States and the nation’s top-ranked tire retailer by Consumer Reports for 2026. Now, more than 9,000 employees in more than 600 locations across 15 states take pride in doing the right thing every day. That shows up in our unique tires–those we crafted specifically for the roads our customers drive on. It’s in the best tire warranty in America. It’s in how we stand behind the promise to do more for customers and communities, every step of the way.

To view the full 2026 ratings and learn more about this recommendation, visit: https://www.lesschwab.com/consumer-reports

About The Ford Family Foundation

The Ford Family Foundation believes in the power of rural communities. It is a private, nonprofit foundation proudly headquartered in Roseburg, Oregon, serving rural Oregon and Siskiyou County, California. Its investments through grants, scholarships and community building create the conditions so that children have the family, educational and community supports they need to succeed in life.

About Marie Lamfrom Charitable Foundation

The Marie Lamfrom Charitable Foundation honors the life and legacy of Marie Lamfrom by directing strategic philanthropic support — in education, community, arts, creativity, health, and well-being — to those who need it most in Oregon. Guided by values of authenticity, equity, and optimism, the Foundation partners with nonprofits to empower underserved communities, alleviate human suffering, and foster lasting, positive change across the region.

About Oregon Disaster Funders Network
 

Oregon Disaster Funders Network (ODFN) is a network of PNW grantmakers coordinating across and beyond the philanthropic sector to minimize the economic, social, and environmental impacts of disasters, especially on underserved populations and in disinvested communities. ODFN provides a single entry “starting point” platform for community needs, reaches disaster-impacted communities with resource navigation, and elevates funding requests, opportunities and obstacles to the Network’s 40+ grantmakers. ODFN shares resources, strengthens relationships and mobilizes funding. Learn more at OregonDisasterFundersNetwork.org

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PRESS RELEASE

July 1, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wildlife Crossing Projects Gain Momentum Across Oregon

Oregon Wildlife Foundation helps advance wildlife passage initiatives statewide through partnerships, fundraising, and project coordination.

(PORTLAND, Ore.) –  Every year, thousands of deer, elk, bear, and other wildlife attempt to cross busy roadways in search of food, water, and mates. Too often, those crossings end in tragedy for wildlife and sometimes for motorists.

Improving habitat connectivity is one of Oregon Wildlife Foundation's conservation priorities. Proceeds from the sale and renewal of the Watch for Wildlife specialty license plate are allocated to habitat connectivity and wildlife passage projects throughout Oregon. The Foundation also serves as the fiscal sponsor for multiple passage projects - providing fiscal administration and fundraising support to these initiatives throughout their development.

“Our participation in wildlife passage work began in 2017 with an undercrossing on Highway 97 in Central Oregon” said Tim Greseth, Executive Director of the Oregon Wildlife Foundation. “This experience deepened our understanding of the impact that wildlife-vehicle collisions are having on many different species and led us to adopt habitat connectivity as an organizational priority.”

Recent project milestones include:

Bend to Suttle Lake Wildlife Passage Initiative (Central Oregon)

This section of Highway 20 experiences the highest frequency of deer and elk collisions in Oregon. The Bend to Suttle Lake Wildlife Passage coalition has completed a Phase I wildlife crossing mitigation study and developed conceptual crossing designs for multiple locations along the corridor. 

Following that work, four wildlife overcrossings were identified as the highest priorities for Phase II design and engineering. The coalition has raised more than $850,000 in non-federal matching funds in preparation for the Federal Highway Administration’s Wildlife Crossing Pilot Program, which is slated to open for applications sometime in July or August.

Wallowa County Wildlife Crossing Project (Northeast Oregon)

The Wallowa County Wildlife Crossing Coalition has completed a Phase I study of Highway 82 between Enterprise and Wallowa to determine priority crossing locations and develop conceptual designs to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions and improve habitat connectivity within this high-risk corridor.

Interstate 84 Wildlife Crossing Project (Northeast Oregon)

Interstate 84 is an almost permanent barrier to wildlife movement. The focus of this project is the completion of a wildlife crossing study and conceptual design for the highest priority locations on I-84 between Pendleton and La Grande. The funding needed to begin this project has been raised, marking an important step in its development.

Wanaket Wildlife Area Wildlife Crossing Project (Northeast Oregon)

In partnership with the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla, Oregon Wildlife Foundation is providing funding support and serving as the fiscal sponsor for a wildlife crossing study on the Wanaket Wildlife area, which is located along the Columbia River, just east of McNary in northeast Oregon. The wildlife area is bisected by  Highway 730 and the incidence of vehicle strikes is high within this section of road. 

Assessing Existing Bridges and Culverts Across Oregon (Statewide)

Oregon Wildlife Foundation has retained a consulting team to evaluate existing bridges and culverts throughout Oregon that may already be in use by wildlife or, with modifications, can be improved or made ready for wildlife to use - all in service of keeping animals off busy roads by providing them with safe alternatives. 

The consulting team is evaluating existing conditions at culverts and bridges large enough to accommodate deer and elk, documenting evidence of wildlife activity, and recommending cost-effective modifications that may increase use by wildlife.

“Building new wildlife overcrossings and undercrossings can be expensive, so we’re enthusiastic for opportunities to provide safe passage for animals through simpler modifications to the areas around existing bridges and culverts wherever and whenever possible,” said Greseth.

To learn more about Oregon Wildlife Foundation's wildlife crossing initiatives or to support this work through the Wildlife Movement and Migration fund, visit www.myOWF.org/wildlifemoves. Or donate directly via https://secure.givelively.org/donate/oregon-wildlife-foundation/wildlife-migration-and-movement-fund-formerly-known-as-watch-for-wildlife-fund

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About Oregon Wildlife Foundation

Oregon Wildlife Foundation is an operating charitable foundation dedicated to increasing private and public funding for wildlife conservation throughout Oregon. Since 1981, the Foundation has directed tens of millions of dollars toward projects that conserve fish, wildlife, and their habitats across the state. Learn more at www.myOWF.org.