PORTLAND, Ore. – Fire restrictions remain in effect on all Bureau of Land Management public lands in Oregon and Washington. As wildfire activity continues to impact the region, BLM officials urge visitors to check on additional restrictions and closures and current air quality before heading outdoors.

Active wildfires across the Pacific Northwest continue to produce smoke that can reduce visibility and create unhealthy air quality, even far from an active fire. Recreation conditions can change quickly as new fires emerge, existing fires grow, or smoke shifts with changing winds.

"As wildfire smoke continues to affect communities across the region, we encourage visitors to stay informed and make decisions based on current conditions," said Kim Prill, acting BLM Oregon/Washington State Director. "Conditions can change quickly, so checking air quality and local closures before your trip can help you avoid unnecessary health and safety risks."

The BLM is coordinating closely with the U.S. Wildland Fire Service and federal, state and local partners to share resources, align operations, and ensure the strongest possible response to wildfire activity.

"Preventing a single wildfire can make a real difference for firefighters and for the communities affected by smoke,” said Josh O'Connor, Northwest Geographic Area Fire Chief for the U.S. Wildland Fire Service. “Following fire restrictions and staying aware of current air quality are simple steps everyone can take to protect themselves and help reduce additional impacts during an already busy fire season."

Fire restrictions vary by location based on fire danger, weather conditions and fuel moisture. Before visiting public lands, visitors should check local restrictions. These restrictions address when power tools may be used, whether campfires or portable stoves are allowed, and what fire prevention equipment must be on hand.

The following items remain prohibited on all BLM-administered public lands in Oregon and Washington:

• Fireworks and sky lanterns
• Exploding or metallic targets
• Tracer or incendiary devices
• Steel-core or steel-jacketed ammunition

Individuals responsible for starting wildfires may face fines of up to $100,000, imprisonment for up to 12 months, and liability for the full cost of wildfire suppression.

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.

Okanogan County Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison for

Producing Child Sexual Abuse Material 

TELECOMMUNICATIONS CURRICULUM ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING SCHEDULED

PRIVATE INVESTIGATOR SUB-COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

Notice of Regular Meeting

The Private Investigator Sub-Committee of the Private Security/Investigators Policy Committee for the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., in the Governor Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST or Department) located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167.

The meeting will be live streamed on the DPSST YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery. Click or tap if you trust this link.">https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve the May 19, 2026, Meeting Minutes

3. Round Table

4. Agency Update

5. Next Scheduled Meeting - TBD

Administrative Announcement

This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law and it will be recorded. Deliberation of issues will only be conducted by Private Security/Private Investigations Policy Committee members unless permitted by the Chair. Individuals who engage in disruptive behavior that impedes official business will be asked to stop being disruptive or leave the meeting. Additional measures may be taken to have disruptive individuals removed if their continued presence poses a safety risk to the other persons in the room or makes it impossible to continue the meeting.

DPSST provides reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access for people with disabilities and those with limited English proficiency. To request a sign language interpreter, translation services, or other accommodations, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or at nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

DPSST proporciona acomodaciones rasonables para asegurar el acceso igual para personas con descapacidades y para personas con competencia limitada de inglés. Para pedir un interprete de lengua de señas, servicios de traducción, u otras acomodaciones, por favor de contactar a Juan Lopez marcando al (503) 551-3167, o a nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, al menos de 48 horas antes de la reunión.

PRIVATE SECURITY/INVESTIGATOR POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

Notice of Regular Meeting

The Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 1:30 p.m., in the Governor Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST or Department) located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167.

To view the Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee's live-stream and other recorded videos, please visit DPSST’s official YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery. Click or tap if you trust this link.">https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.

Amended Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve May 19, 2026, Meeting Minutes

3. Darryl Fink, PS No. 058027

   Notice of Intent to Propose Civil Penalty

   Presented by Michael Holsapple

4. Joseph Sanchez Sr., PS No. 086458

   Notice of Intent to Propose Civil Penalty

   Presented by Michael Holsapple

5. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-060-0015, 259-060-0030, and 259-060-0145

   Relating to Interpretation of a Reasonable Request

   Presented by Jennifer Howald

6. Agency Update

7. Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting – November 17, 2026, at 1:30 p.m.

Administrative Announcement

This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law and it will be recorded. Deliberation of issues will only be conducted by Private Security/Private Investigations Policy Committee members unless permitted by the Chair. Individuals who engage in disruptive behavior that impedes official business will be asked to stop being disruptive or leave the meeting. Additional measures may be taken to have disruptive individuals removed if their continued presence poses a safety risk to the other persons in the room or makes it impossible to continue the meeting.

DPSST provides reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access for people with disabilities and those with limited English proficiency. To request a sign language interpreter, translation services, or other accommodations, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or at nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

DPSST proporciona acomodaciones rasonables para asegurar el acceso igual para personas con descapacidades y para personas con competencia limitada de inglés. Para pedir un interprete de lengua de señas, servicios de traducción, u otras acomodaciones, por favor de contactar a Juan Lopez marcando al (503) 551-3167, o a nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, al menos de 48 horas antes de la reunión.

PRIVATE SECURITY/INVESTIGATOR POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

Notice of Regular Meeting

The Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 1:30 p.m., in the Governor Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST or Department) located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167.

To view the Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee's live-stream and other recorded videos, please visit DPSST’s official YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery. Click or tap if you trust this link.">https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve May 19, 2026, Meeting Minutes

3. Darryl Fink, PS No. 058027

   Notice of Intent to Propose Civil Penalty

   Presented by Michael Holsapple

4. Joseph Sanchez Sr., PS No. 086458

   Notice of Intent to Propose Civil Penalty

   Presented by Michael Holsapple

5. Agency Update

6. Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting – November 17, 2026, at 1:30 p.m.

Administrative Announcement

This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law and it will be recorded. Deliberation of issues will only be conducted by Private Security/Private Investigations Policy Committee members unless permitted by the Chair. Individuals who engage in disruptive behavior that impedes official business will be asked to stop being disruptive or leave the meeting. Additional measures may be taken to have disruptive individuals removed if their continued presence poses a safety risk to the other persons in the room or makes it impossible to continue the meeting.

DPSST provides reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access for people with disabilities and those with limited English proficiency. To request a sign language interpreter, translation services, or other accommodations, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or at nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

DPSST proporciona acomodaciones rasonables para asegurar el acceso igual para personas con descapacidades y para personas con competencia limitada de inglés. Para pedir un interprete de lengua de señas, servicios de traducción, u otras acomodaciones, por favor de contactar a Juan Lopez marcando al (503) 551-3167, o a nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, al menos de 48 horas antes de la reunión.

Wildfire smoke rolls over the skies near Warm Springson July 25, 2026 - courtesy of the Oregon Department of Transportation

SALEM, Ore. — As wildfire seasons intensify and air quality fluctuates across Oregon, the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), Oregon Health Authority (OHA), Oregon State University (OSU) Extension Service, and Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) are issuing coordinated guidance for livestock owners and fair exhibitors to safeguard animal health during smoke events.

Air Quality Monitoring and Alerts

DEQ’s statewide monitoring network provides real-time updates on fine particulate matter, ozone, and other pollutants at more than 40 sites throughout Oregon. Daily updates, including wildfire smoke advisories, are available through the DEQ Air Quality Index map and compatible mobile applications.

During severe wildfire periods, DEQ, OHA, and partner agencies implement the Wildfire Smoke Response Protocol, which triggers air quality alerts, public advisories, and technical support.

Protecting Livestock from Smoke Exposure

The OSU Extension Service advises that wildfire smoke contains fine particles that can irritate respiratory systems in animals. During smoke events, livestock owners are encouraged to minimize animal exercise, provide abundant fresh water, and use dust‑free bedding or feed. Misting or sprinkling holding areas can also help reduce airborne particulates.

A recent OSU study found that even short-term smoke exposure can elevate stress markers in calves and activate immune responses before outward symptoms appear. Producers should closely monitor air quality forecasts and adjust livestock activities accordingly.

Livestock intended for exhibition should only be shown on days with favorable air quality and should be monitored for signs of respiratory stress.

Fairground Biosecurity and Exhibitor Safety

ODA requires all livestock exhibitions to register at least 20 days before an event and maintain complete animal records for 90 days afterward. Events must designate isolation areas for animals that show signs of illness and maintain veterinarian oversight throughout their duration.

Influenza‑susceptible species—including dairy cattle, swine, poultry, and waterfowl—must be housed separately from other species. Lactating dairy cattle must be milked in areas inaccessible to the public or protected by a physical barrier.

Human Health Considerations

The Oregon Health Authority notes that fair participants may be exposed to smoke outdoors for prolonged periods. People with heart and lung disease, infants, children, youth, older adults, pregnant women are at higher risk of poor health outcomes than other groups. Outdoor workers and volunteers are at higher risk of exposure. Individuals may have more than one risk factor. It is best to avoid smoke by staying indoors during periods of poor air quality. Participants who must be outdoors should:

• Follow any breathing plan developed with their health care provider. Keep any prescribed rescue medication close.
• Take frequent rest breaks in indoor spaces- preferably in air conditioned buildings with filtered air.
• Consider use of a N95 or better respirator during periods of poor air quality. Those with heart and lung disease should consult with their provider first.
• Take extra care when heat and smoke occur together. The combination can worsen harmful health effects.  

Fair organizers and exhibitors should provide and clearly mark filtered-air indoor spaces, ensure access to handwashing stations, and offer clear messaging about air quality expectations. 

OHA also recognizes agricultural community members affected by wildfires may be under emotional distress. Two helplines offer 24/7 emotional support. 988 is available for anyone who needs support. The Agristress Helpline supports farmers, ranchers and rural community members. Fair organizers are encouraged to share this information as well.  

Recommendations for Upcoming Fairs and Exhibitions

• Monitor official air quality sources regularly and schedule events during favorable conditions.
• Prioritize animal welfare by reducing stressors such as exercise and dust exposure.
• Follow ODA’s exhibition registration, recordkeeping, and isolation-area requirements.
• Enhance human safety by offering filtered-air spaces, sanitation facilities, and clear public communications.
• Provide real-time updates and preparedness guidance to staff, volunteers, exhibitors, and visitors.

Additional Resources

• Oregon Smoke Blog
• OHA Wildfire and Smoke Guidance
• OHA Air Quality Guide for Children and Youth
• OSU Extension livestock smoke exposure resources
• OSU Extension Air quality resources during wildfires
• ODA Exhibition Rules and Biosecurity Guidance

Salem – The Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS) is warning people that a scam targeting Spanish-speaking injured workers is still prevalent in Oregon and around the country and to be wary of anyone claiming that payment must be made before receiving benefits.

In these scams, workers are contacted by phone, email, social media apps such as Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp, or video calls. Scammers try to convince workers to appear at an online workers’ compensation hearing, and at times, this results in an official-appearing order in their favor. Thereafter, workers are told they must pay money to receive the workers’ compensation benefits or the settlement money for their claim. These communications may appear official and the hearings may include a fake judge, attorney, or government representative. The Oregon Workers’ Compensation Division (WCD), part of DCBS, and the Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) will never ask anyone to pay to receive benefits.

Here’s what you should know:

• WCD, WCB, and insurance companies do not ask for payment to release workers’ compensation benefits. Never pay money up front for benefits or settlements.
• WCD and WCB will never ask for payment through gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency. Be skeptical of any requests for payment.
• Official communications from WCD and WCB will not pressure you to act or pay immediately.
• WCB, which conducts workers’ compensation hearings, does not charge or collect fees for hearings or mediation.
• WCB does not use social media or applications such as Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp to communicate with parties about hearings or mediations.

If you are unsure whether a communication is legitimate, do not send money or personal information. Verify before you act by contacting the Ombuds Office for Oregon Workers by phone at 800-927-1271 (toll-free) or email at oow.questions@dcbs.oregon.gov. The office serves as an independent advocate for workers by helping them understand their rights, benefits, protections, and responsibilities within the workers’ compensation system and workplace safety and health laws and rules.

If you believe a scammer has contacted you:

• Report the incident to local law enforcement.
• Report any scams, fraud, or suspicious business activity to the Oregon Department of Justice’s fraud hotline at 877-877-9392 (toll-free).
• Report the scam to the Oregon Department of Justice and the Ombuds Office for Oregon Workers.
• Early reporting helps others from becoming victims.

If someone representing an insurance company is calling and threatening you, contact the consumer advocates with the Oregon Division of Financial Regulation, also part of DCBS, at 888-877-4894 (toll-free).

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About Oregon DCBS: The Department of Consumer and Business Services is Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. The department administers state laws and rules to protect consumers and workers in the areas of workers’ compensation, occupational safety and health, financial services, insurance, and building codes. Visit dcbs.oregon.gov.

Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) has tips for homeowners and renters who have evacuated or been affected by wildfires, smoke, or ash damage.

“We know this is a hard time for many Oregonians as wildfires affect communities across the state,” said Oregon Insurance Commissioner TK Keen. “We want people to have these tips so they know what their insurance covers and what steps to take if they are affected by a wildfire.”

• If you were evacuated, save your receipts. Your homeowners policy may pay for expenses such as lodging, food, and even pet boarding due to a mandatory evacuation. Be sure to check with your insurance company or agent to confirm your specific coverage. Coverage is typically available for fire, smoke, and ash damage to your home and personal property.

• Additional living expenses (ALE) are typically subject to your deductible, so before you file a claim, be sure it makes sense to do so. It is important to note that a claim can be counted against you for underwriting purposes, even if the insurance company does not make a payment. Most homeowners and renters’ insurance policies help pay for extra expenses such as ALE if you are unable to live in your home. Every company handles these expenses differently. Check with your company or agent for specifics.

• If you have not evacuated and it is safe to do so, make a quick home inventory list by taking photos or video of each room in your home. Pay close attention to what is on the walls and in drawers and closets. Don’t forget storage areas such as the attic and garage. You can also check your insurance company’s website for an app or checklist that will help. Creating that list will help you after a fire or disaster. If your personal belongings are damaged, the insurance company will request a list of items that are damaged or destroyed. Take some time to work on your home inventory list now. Look through your photos and videos to help recall personal items. Be sure to look for smaller items, such as jewelry. To the best of your ability, write down the age, original cost, and replacement cost of each item.

• Ask about your auto coverage, too. You need comprehensive coverage on your auto policy to cover fire, smoke, and ash damage, no matter where your vehicle is located at the time of loss.

Following these tips will help save you money, time, and stress during a wildfire and its aftermath. For more information on preparing for a wildfire, visit DFR’s wildfire page.

If you still have questions or concerns, DFR’s consumer advocates are here to help. Call the team at 888-877-4894 (toll-free), email them at .insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov">dfr.insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov, or visit dfr.oregon.gov.

###

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.

BEAVERTON, Ore. - Emerald ash borer (EAB), an exotic beetle that infests and kills ash, olive, and white fringetrees, has been confirmed for the first time inside Beaverton, Salem, at Bethany Lake Park in the Rockcreek area, as well as at the Oregon Garden in Silverton. EAB was also detected along the Banks-Vernonia State Trail marking the first time EAB has been found in an Oregon state park. Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve in Hillsboro also reports it has likely found EAB there for the first time. That report is awaiting official confirmation from the state.

The beetles were found when traps set out this spring were checked in July.

In addition, EAB was found again in the same school parking lot in east Portland where it showed up last summer, as well as reappearing in Hazeldale Park west of Beaverton.

EAB was first found in Oregon in Forest Grove in Washington County in June 2022. That made Oregon the first state on the West Coast to report an infestation. Since then it has been found in four other counties in the Willamette Valley - Clackamas, Marion, Multnomah, and Yamhill.

Salem 

The City of Salem has been preparing for the arrival of emerald ash borer in the city for several years. An important first step was conducting an inventory of street, park, and natural-area ash trees. Salem identified nearly 4,000 ash trees along streets, in parks, and in over 400 acres of natural areas with a high density of Oregon ash. The City also has:

• Created management plans for identified ash trees on City-owned property
• Created and published an Emerald Ash Borer Readiness and Response Plan (https://www.cityofsalem.net/community/natural-environment-climate/trees-and-plants/emerald-ash-borer)   
• Halted the siting and planting of new ash trees
• Begun pre-emptive removal of ash trees in poor health
• Moved to inject insecticide into around 1,200 ash trees identified to be in good health to protect them from EAB
  • These injections began in summer 2025 with 600 trees in the northern part of the city receiving injections last year, and another 600 trees to be injected next spring. The treatments are highly effective at killing EAB and keeping trees alive through their natural lifespan if treatment is started before infestation damages trees and is continued every 2-3 years.

The City of Salem will continue to carry out other work to mitigate and contain EAB, including: 

• Underplanting in natural areas around ash trees
• Replacing removed ash trees along streets and parks with a wide variety of other species to add resilience and diversity to the urban canopy
• Providing education and outreach about EAB through social and print media and at community events.

Learn more about Salem’s response plans here.

Beaverton’s response

Beaverton’s Urban Forestry team was spurred by EAB detections in places just west of the city over the past few years to start preparing in earnest. Beaverton received a one-year grant from the Tualatin Soil and Water Conservation District in October 2024 to help with EAB mitigation. During the 2025 treatment season the Beaverton Urban Forestry team used the grant’s funds to treat 600 of the 2,000 inventoried ash street trees, with plans to protect a further 600 soon. Beaverton has also planted 60 new street trees with the help of volunteers and Friends of Trees.

“In response to the threat of EAB, in 2026 we have so far treated 22 city-maintained natural area trees 20 inches in diameter and larger and planted over 2,000 native trees and shrubs,” said Beaverton City Arborist and Public Works Supervisor Jered Lane. “We are continuing to monitor ash street trees throughout the city with regular inspections, respond to concerns about possible cases in Beaverton, and educate the public about EAB.”

Advice for cities and homeowners

One immediate step cities should be taking is to stop planting ash and olive trees and if they haven’t already to remove them from their list of approved street and yard trees.  The second is to make sure City staff who work with trees know how to identify an ash or olive tree. A PowerPoint on how to do that can be found at https://www.oregon.gov/odf/forestbenefits/Documents/identifying-ash-trees-march-2023.pdf

If you think you’ve seen an emerald ash borer, the Oregon Dept. of Forestry (ODF) and Oregon Dept. of Agriculture ask that you first make sure it’s not a common look-alike bug.

“Keep in mind that EAB adults are only around from June through September. You can find a good description and photos comparing EAB to other common insects in Oregon that are also green in color at OregonEAB.com,” said ODF EAB Specialist Kat Bethea. “If you can capture the beetle in a jar or other container that’s ideal, but at least try and take a clear, close-up photo. This helps us identify the insect in question much more easily.”

Bethea said people suspecting they’ve found EAB should report it over the phone to 1-866-INVADER or online at https://oregoninvasiveshotline.org/reports/create. Attaching a clear photo is important. Bethea said people who know they have an ash tree and notice a decline should report it the same way.

“Any ash tree can be infested, including native Oregon ash as well as non-native street, park and yard trees. Signs of infestation include thinning and yellowing leaves, bark splitting, D-shaped holes in the tree bark, and shoots from buds on the trunk or branches,” said Bethea.

Matt Mills, who is also an EAB Specialist with ODF, said, “You can find whether or not you’re in an EAB-infested area or close to one by checking an online map we’ve created. It shows the five counties where firewood from hardwood trees cannot be removed. That quarantine also covers any part of ash, olive or white fringetree (Chionanthus virginicus).”

People who want to protect their ash trees before they become infested should consider the same treatment Beaverton, Portland, and Salem are using to protect their high-value public ash trees. “The insecticide is injected at the base of the trunk and gets taken up into the tree canopy and is quite effective at protecting the tree from both adults and larvae,” said Mills.

Mills said treatments must be done before trees are damaged and repeated every two or three years by a licensed pesticide applicator.

“That’s why we recommend only treating high-value trees in good condition,” he said. “Ash trees planted in the wrong place to reach their mature size, such as under powerlines, should be removed as time and funds permit and replaced with species that aren’t susceptible to EAB.” 

Homeowners might also consider replacing young ash trees while they are still small and starting over by planting a species that is not susceptible to EAB.  “This gets new tree canopy jump-started in urban areas where ash trees will be lost if not treated,” Mills said.

America’s most destructive forest pest

Since it was first found in Michigan two decades ago, EAB has become the most destructive forest pest ever seen in North America. Where they spread to, EAB larvae eventually kill almost all ash trees by feeding on the living tissues under the bark. Oregon ash and all other American and European ash species are susceptible. The insect is devastating ash stands from the Atlantic Ocean to the Rocky Mountains. Hundreds of millions of ash trees in the U.S. and Canada have already been killed by EAB.

For more information visit the Oregon Invasive Species Council EAB web site at  www.oregoneab.com

# # #

REDMOND, Ore.—The Central Oregon Interagency Dispatch Center is working hard to catch and put out wildfires while they are small.  They have the responsibility to coordinate the first response to these fires, called “initial attack.”

“The center has been key to suppressing more than 100 fires already this year with their efficient and fast deployment of initial firefighting resources,” said Rick Fletcher, Assistant District Forester for the Oregon Department of Forestry’s (ODF) Central Oregon District.  The center coordinates the physical firefighting resources of ODF, U.S Forest Service and the newly created U.S. Wildland Fire Service.

“Most importantly the center brings together hundreds of years of state and federal firefighting experience to manage those resources to protect the people and property of central Oregon no matter who owns the land,” said Fletcher.

This close cooperation between state and federal agencies didn’t always happen historically.

“It was crazy 20-years ago, Forest Service trucks would pass ODF trucks on the same road going opposite directions to different fires because both agencies would only do initial attack on their lands,” said Jason Gibb, U.S. Forest Service Deputy Fire Staff for Central Oregon Fire Management Service.  “Now under our jointly funded and jointly staffed center, we use the closest forces concept. The firefighting resources closest to the fire get dispatched no matter the landowner.”

According to Fletcher, there are two major advantages to this joint approach to dispatching: “We get to fires quicker and safety is improved since we are moving resources shorter distances.”  

That quick response is also extremely efficient, especially during intense thunderstorm activity.  For example, on July 22, the central Oregon area received an estimated 2,000 lightning strikes from a storm. Firefighters responded to more than 35 reported wildfires.   Several of those fires had an interagency response, including Incident #551, that was burning three miles northeast of Terrebonne on the north side of the Crooked River east of Smith Rock State Park.

“The fire was on federal land but responding resources include municipal, state and federal engines and crews,” said Fletcher.  “Because of the fast joint response, we stopped the forward progress that night.  It was a great catch.”   Fletcher has firsthand knowledge of that quick response since he was one of the closest resources and was the incident commander for the fire.

The center’s job doesn’t stop with a successful allocation of resources nor when the lightening stops. 

“Lightening that strikes trees or vegetation can sometimes smolder for several days without producing significant smoke,” said Matt Noble, who monitors ODF smoke cameras and other detection resources for the central Oregon area. “Sometimes we see a little smoke for a few minutes then it’s gone because of the rain with the thunderstorm. That makes monitoring that area critical for the next several days in case it flares up.”

Those found fires’ locations are pushed to the center’s other staff for quick coordinated action. Then ground or air resources are sent to the fire starts to catch them before they can grow.

The center also tracks all firefighting resources in the area. The numbers change daily, and even hourly, there are a lot of fires in central Oregon. Currently, there are 32 large fires in Oregon with more than 11,700 people assigned to them, and nearly all of those fires and resources are on the east side of the state. This year, wildfires have burned more than 2 million acres statewide, with much of that in central and eastern Oregon.

“The challenge for the center is to have resources available for initial attack when these lightning storms hit, while not hampering the efforts to control the current large fires,” said Fletcher. 

The center does this though a jointly agreed upon priority list, but center staff still have to use their expertise to make that final decision on what firefighting resources go to which fire when.

“It’s not necessarily first come first served during the height of fire season, said Gibbs. “We look at (fire) fuels, weather, terrain, distances to those priorities, prior thinning and treatment like prescribed fire, and more—just many factors we take into consideration before we make our dispatch decisions.  And, all this must be done quickly and efficiently.”

The central Oregon area is so large—encompassing land from The Dalles down past Prineville and across to John Day—that one interagency center is not enough to coordinate all the firefighting resources to protect Oregonians, their communities, and the state’s natural resources. “We have three primary interagency centers we coordinate and staff that support central Oregon,” said Fletcher. Those centers are in Redmond, Vancouver, and John Day. Relevant and timely information is shared between the centers based on fire locations and available resources.

“I’ve worked firefighting jobs all over the state and this interagency model of centers is the most efficient and most effective,” said Fletcher.  “It’s the best way to protect people and property.”

For more on the Central Oregon Interagency Dispatch Center see: Central Oregon Interagency Dispatch Center

For the latest update on central Oregon wildfire activity see: Wildfire Updates | Air Quality | Central Oregon Fire Information

Families have until Sept. 1, 2026, to apply for essential food assistance through the Summer EBT program. The program offers $120 per eligible child to help cover grocery costs while school is out.

Thousands of families may be unaware that they qualify for this essential benefit. With the application deadline approaching, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) and the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) urge families to check their eligibility and to apply before the deadline. Benefits must be used within 122 days.

“We want to make sure children have enough to eat throughout the summer and that all families know about the help available,” said ODHS Director Liesl Wendt. “We don’t want families to think it’s too late to apply. Reach out to ODHS today so we can check your eligibility and connect your family with food benefits.”

ODE Director Dr. Charlene Williams added, “We’re asking community organizations, schools, and summer meal providers to help spread the word by posting flyers and sharing information with families. We want every eligible child to receive this food benefit.”

Most eligible children received their benefits automatically on June 5, 2026, including children in foster care. Other children are automatically eligible if their households:

• Participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
• Participate in Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
• Are Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid) members in households with incomes under 185 percent of the Federal Poverty Level

Families who did not receive benefits automatically may still be eligible if:

• Their household meets income requirements​ for free or reduced-price school meals
• Their child attends​ a school or Headstart program that participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP)​ or School Breakfast Program (SBP)

Families are encouraged to visit sebt.oregon.gov. For information in Spanish, visit ebtv.oregon.gov.or contact the Summer EBT Call Center at 833-673-7328 to verify eligibility and apply.

Since June 5, 2026, more than 331,844 eligible school-aged children have been issued $39.8 million in Summer EBT food benefits.

To learn more:

• Call 833-ORE-SEBT (833-673-7328). The call center is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time.
• Visit sebt.oregon.gov or for information in Spanish visit ebtv.oregon.gov

Resources
 

Summer EBT overview video

Other downloadable videos available upon request. Contact istine.L.Decker@odhs.oregon.gov">Christine.L.Decker@odhs.oregon.gov or odhs-media@odhs.oregon.gov.

• Video interview with ODHS Summer EBT Program Manager Christine Doody
• Video scenes from farmers market

Two Corvallis businesses will be recognized for supporting employees with disabilities at the State Rehabilitation Council’s quarterly meeting on Aug. 6.

Chateau Home Furnishings and Fred Meyer will receive the council’s Business Partner award, given to businesses that have hired or provided work experiences for participants of Vocational Rehabilitation (VR), a program of the Oregon Department of Human Services.

Council chair Ed Cortez said the council selected these businesses because of their efforts to open doors for job seekers with disabilities — not only through supportive hiring practices, but also by creating meaningful work experiences that help people explore careers and build confidence.

“We want to celebrate businesses that have created an environment where people with disabilities can thrive,” he said.

The council serves as an advisor to VR, which provides employment services for people with disabilities. VR also supports Oregon businesses —  helping them recruit, train, retain and promote employees with disabilities, all at no cost.

Chateau Home Furnishings

Ed Dasteur’s store, Chateau Home Furnishings, has been part of the Corvallis community since the 1980s. The store on NW Ninth Street sells beds, mattresses, sofas, dining sets, couches and home furnishings. It is known for the giant orange rocking chair out front.

“People take pictures of it every day,” Dasteur said.

Over the past decade, Dasteur has hired five VR participants and currently has one on staff who handles the store’s social media advertising and some light cleaning. Dasteur has also assisted about 15 others with career exploration in areas such as sales, computer work and furniture assembly.

He is quick to provide accommodations when needed, said Jesse Taylor, owner of JBT Vocational Advocacy, who nominated Dasteur for the award. The current employee hired through VR has lifting restrictions, which the store easily accommodates.

“He doesn’t have to lift couches,” Dasteur said. “It’s up to him what he wants to lift.”

Dasteur coordinates with Taylor to fill openings and host work experiences for people with disabilities who want to get job skills and explore what working is like. As a contracted vendor of the VR program, Taylor helps match VR participants and businesses looking to hire. He has seen first-hand Dasteur’s commitment to helping VR participants get work experience.

“Ed Dasteur believes everybody deserves a chance,” said Taylor. “He is kind and patient with our clientele through Vocational Rehabilitation and has provided jobs when he was able to.”

Dasteur said supporting the community is important to him. “If anybody needs help, I don’t hesitate. I even give furniture free to people who are totally broke.”

Fred Meyer

Fred Meyer’s stated core values of honesty, integrity, respect, diversity, safety, and inclusion show through its actions: currently four people from the VR program work at the store on Kings Boulevard. They work in a mix of freight, parcel, customer service, and store readiness roles that help keep the location running smoothly throughout the day, said Tim McKay, Human Resources Assistant Store Leader.

“Fred Meyer has an ongoing dedication to our communities and a longstanding commitment to hiring adults with disabilities,” McKay said.

These values also align with McKay’s beliefs, which stem from the personal experience of having a family member with a disability.

“I learned from watching this family member: let’s not put any restrictions on someone and see what they can do,” he said.

McKay said the best part of his job is hiring someone with raw potential and seeing them move up the job ladder. He puts into practice the philosophy of his father: “‘The world doesn’t owe you a living, but it does owe you an opportunity.’”

For example, he once hired a teenager with a disability who came in the store with his mother looking for a new job with more hours. McKay immediately hired him, and soon promoted him.

“I put him on night crew, then put him on as a courtesy clerk. I’m always in dialogue and work on cross-training. Everybody deserves a chance,” he said.

Taylor, of JBT Vocational Advocacy, nominated McKay for the award. He has seen firsthand how McKay’s leadership and commitment impact job seekers.

“Tim McKay has been an exceptional partner with Vocational Rehabilitation and my organization, providing a very kind, supportive, and professional service approach during each onboarding experience,” Taylor said. “His communication, understanding, and acceptance of accommodations have far exceeded my expectations. He has shown time and time again that every individual deserves a fair shot at employment and success.”
 

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About the State Rehabilitation Council

Oregon's State Rehabilitation Council (SRC) is an advisory partner to Vocational Rehabilitation (VR). Its role is to listen to VR participants about their VR experience and advise the VR program on how to improve services. 

About Vocational Rehabilitation

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) is a program of the Oregon Department of Human Services. VR helps people with all kinds of disabilities find careers that fit their skills, interests, and abilities. The program is also a resource for Oregon businesses regarding disability in the workplace. 

Salem, OR— Are you looking for a way to both save money on your taxes and support the production of movies and TV shows in Oregon? The Oregon Department of Revenue and the Oregon Film and Video Office may have just what you need.

Revenue and Oregon Film will be offering tax credit certificates worth $500 at auction where taxpayers can get them at a discount.

A total of 42,400 income tax credit certificates worth $500 each will be auctioned off August 10-14. The auction proceeds will benefit the Oregon Production Investment Fund.

The auction allows taxpayers to bid on the $500 certificates at a discount. When tax time comes, each certificate is worth $500 toward a taxpayer’s tax bill even though the taxpayer potentially paid less than that for the certificate. Taxpayers can bid as little as $450 per tax credit certificate, possibly saving up to $50 on their tax bill for every credit purchased.

The online auction will begin on Monday, August 10, 2026, at 9 a.m. PDT and will end on Friday, August 14 at 5 p.m. PDT.

To find out more information, go to the Department of Revenue website.

Expanding financing opportunities to help build more affordable homes across Oregon

SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) just launched its Permanent Loan Program, a new and improved financing tool designed to help affordable housing developments move from construction to completion. By offering competitive, fixed-rate loans, the program fills a critical financing gap, helping developers advance affordable housing projects more efficiently and deliver more homes across Oregon faster. 

“If you were to ask most people across the country what their top concerns are, most would define them by the cost of living,” said OHCS Executive Director Andrea Bell. “For too many, it’s keeping them up at night – a home they can afford alongside groceries, gas, and childcare. This program is another way we deliver advanced housing solutions that help make life better.” 

Permanent loans are a unique and mission-driven financing tool, offering fixed-rate, first-lien permanent mortgages for affordable housing at lower interest rates and more flexible terms. Unlike construction financing, these loans fund long-term mortgages with proceeds from tax-exempt bonds once a property is stable and operational. The program includes two products: Elderly and Disabled (E&D) bonds, which serve older adults and people with disabilities, and Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Risk Share, which supports households with low incomes.  

"There are some good loan products with intentional lenders out there, but it's just not enough at this moment. Interest rates remain high and more capital in the system is needed. When the market cannot support affordable housing access for everyone, public funders have a responsibility to step up and step in,” comments Northwest Housing Alternatives Executive Director, Trell Anderson. “This principle is at the heart of gap financing and applies broadly across affordable housing development and asset management.” 

The launch of this reimagined program, which provides direct loans from the state, marks the first time in almost two decades the agency will directly finance long-term mortgages for affordable rental housing development. The program represents the governor’s broader effort to pursue innovative financing solutions and strengthen the state’s ability to address Oregon’s housing needs amid an uncertain federal landscape. 

“As President Trump continues to cut services and makes daily needs less affordable, my administration is prioritizing increasing housing production and expanding ways to finance new housing for Oregonians in every corner of the state,” Gov. Tina Kotek said. “Too many families view stable housing as out of reach—I’m working to change that.” 

OHCS previously issued $589 million in E&D bonds, supporting 355 developments and more than 7,000 units before pausing permanent lending around 2007 due to market conditions and low interest rates. With growing financing gaps in the market and new legislative direction via Senate Bill 684 (2025), the agency has modernized the program by aligning charges with conduits, enhancing underwriting, and forming a specialized credit committee.  

With fixed interest rates lower than comparable private alternatives, the permanent loan program lowers financing costs and boosts project feasibility. By offering flexible prepayment options and allowing mixed-income units, OHCS aims to streamline capital financing for affordable rental housing development and is designed to adapt alongside market shifts.  

Watch this video to see how Oregon is meeting this moment by increasing access to affordable housing through programs including the Permanent Loan Program. 

About Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) 

OHCS is Oregon's housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians with low and moderate incomes. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs. 

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

OPRD was exempted from procurement and printing requirements during the 2025 legislative session (SB 838). OPRD adopted initial rules implementing this change in September 2025. The agency adopted additional temporary rules in April 2026 to ensure clarity on construction contracts for public improvement projects and architectural and engineering agreements.

The proposed rules make permanent previously adopted temporary rules and add additional clarity around construction contracting requirements included in Oregon Department of Justice model rules for procurement.

How to submit comments

Public comments on the proposed rule changes will be accepted until Aug. 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: Katie Gauthier
725 Summer St. NE, Suite C
Salem, OR 97301

A virtual public hearing will be held on Aug. 24, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. to allow members of the public to provide testimony. Join the hearing via Zoom.

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 Procurement and Public Contracting rulemaking website.

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) has approved Lumen Technologies’ revised Safety Audit Compliance Workplan, which lays out the company’s plan to fix outstanding safety issues and meet PUC requirements for safe and reliable telecommunications service.

In approving the plan, commissioners noted Lumen’s repeated delays and inconsistent follow-through on past safety findings. Those slow responses have created a backlog of unresolved violations across the company’s system.

Earlier this year, the Commission directed Lumen to submit a corrective plan after identifying major delays in the company’s response to safety audit report findings from PUC staff. State law requires telecommunications companies to maintain their systems in a condition that ensures safe and reliable service and Commission rules set deadlines for fixing safety concerns.

Lumen submitted an initial plan in May, but staff found it did not meet Commission expectations. Since then, Lumen and PUC staff worked together to improve the plan. The revised version includes specific timelines for correcting National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) violations identified by PUC staff during field audits and finishing outstanding pole transfer work by December 31, 2026.

During the public meeting, utilities that host Lumen attachments on their poles said they continue to see slow responses from Lumen on joint-use safety issues, including work needed on shared poles. Many of the concerns raised go beyond the scope of the PUC’s field audits and raise public safety concerns. Because of this, the Commission directed PUC staff to gather more information on these additional issues and provide a recommendation to address any issues identified.

“This revised plan provides a clear path forward and sets firm expectations for Lumen,” said PUC Chair Letha Tawney. “If Lumen doesn’t follow through and meet the requirements set in the workplan, the Commission will pursue financial penalties. Oregonians deserve safe, reliable service, and we will hold the company accountable.”

By approving the plan, the Commission confirms that the revised plan meets expectations set in the April 14, meeting and outlines the steps needed to resolve the backlog of outstanding issues identified in audits. The Commission will continue monitoring Lumen’s efforts to ensure continued compliance.

Customers who have questions about telecommunications service issues or need help understanding their rights can contact the PUC’s Consumer Services Team at 503-378-6600 or 800-522-2404, TTY or dial 711, or email puc.consumer@puc.oregon.gov.

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Media Resources

Select comments made by Commission Chair Letha Tawney at the public meeting

Link to the full public meeting recording

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) is reminding residential and small commercial customers that Oregon’s regulated electric and natural gas utilities are required to pause service disconnections for non-payment during certain summer weather or air quality conditions, and when customers are under a Level 2 or Level 3 wildfire evacuation notice.

These protections apply to the investor-owned utilities regulated by the PUC, including Portland General Electric (PGE), Pacific Power, Idaho Power, NW Natural, Avista Natural Gas, and Cascade Natural Gas.

The PUC requires these utilities to activate a disconnection moratorium for the following events in the areas they serve:

• Severe air quality events (electric and natural gas):

A moratorium on disconnection for non-payment is required on any day when the Department of Environmental Quality issues an air-quality advisory or when the Air Quality Index (AQI) is forecast to reach 100 or higher. Both electric and natural gas utilities may not disconnect residential or small commercial customers for nonpayment during these conditions.

• Extreme heat events (electric only):

Electric utilities may not disconnect residential customers for non-payment starting 24 hours before an extreme heat warning, extreme heat watch, or heat advisory is forecast. If the heat notice is issued with less than 24 hours’ notice, utilities must immediately pause disconnections once the alert is posted.

• Level 2 or Level 3 wildfire evacuations (electric and natural gas):

Electric and natural gas utilities will make best efforts to avoid disconnecting customers for non-payment when customers are under a Level 2 or Level 3 wildfire evacuation notice by the Oregon Department of Emergency Management. The moratorium begins when the evacuation notice is issued.

Moratoriums generally remain in effect for 48 hours after a qualifying event ends. Customers who were disconnected shortly before a moratorium began may be eligible for no-cost reconnection. Utilities must make best efforts to complete reconnections upon request, and reconnection fees may apply.

PUC Chair Letha Tawney emphasizes the importance of these protections. “The PUC has worked hard to ensure Oregonians are protected during potentially dangerous air quality and heat events or during wildfire evacuations,” she said. “Service disconnections for non-payment during hazardous conditions can put lives at risk. Pausing shutoffs along with Commission required utility assistance programs help keep customers connected when they need it most.”

“As Oregon continues to be challenged by this unprecedented wildfire season, it’s important that services remain connected,” Governor Tina Kotek said. “No Oregonian affected by wildfire should have to face the loss of power during this emergency. My focus continues to remain on protecting lives, supporting communities, and ensuring families can stay safe.”

Utilities may still need to disconnect power to a high risk area during extreme fire weather to prevent ignitions. In those cases, the utility is carefully weighing the risk of a damaging fire against the difficult impacts of an outage on vulnerable communities. The utility will restore power as quickly as is safe to do so.

Customers can contact their utility to learn more about these protections, or to discuss payment plans, discounts for customers with lower incomes and assistance programs if they are behind on their bill. For help connecting with your utility or understanding your rights, contact the PUC’s Consumer Services Team at 503-378-6600 or 800-522-2404, TTY or dial 711, or email puc.consumer@puc.oregon.gov.

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Salem, OR — The State of Oregon announced today that it has hired attorney Eric Andalman as a Special Assistant Attorney General to advise the Oregon Department of Administrative Services on the renovation project at the Moda Center in Portland. Andalman’s work will focus on the creation of the Moda Center joint authority and the state’s participation in the arena renovation project.

Andalman is a partner at King & Spalding and a highly experienced legal and strategic advisor whose practice concentrates on complex transactions and large-scale infrastructure development, particularly in the sports and entertainment sector. He has advised on mergers, acquisitions, financing, and investments involving major professional sports leagues and teams, while also leading the negotiation and structuring of architectural, construction, engineering, and development agreements for more than $25 billion in stadium, arena, training center, and mixed-use venue projects across the NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, MLS, UEFA, and NCAA landscapes. His work includes contributions to more than 25 arenas, stadiums, and training centers.

“We are excited to have Eric on board as we negotiate the state’s participation in the Moda Center project,” said Betsy Imholt, Director of the Oregon Department of Administrative Services. “Eric and his specialized expertise will help the state as we work to ensure public dollars are invested in a way that delivers for taxpayers while also protecting their investment in the Moda Center.”

“I am honored to serve as Special Assistant Attorney General for the state of Oregon at such a pivotal moment,” said Andalman. “The Portland Trail Blazers are more than a professional basketball team. They are a cornerstone of Oregon’s identity, economic vitality, and civic pride. We recognize that we have a unique opportunity, which we do not take lightly. We are committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to identify a durable, long-term solution that keeps the Trail Blazers in Oregon, maximizes its positive impact in the region, and strengthens its role as a catalyst for community engagement and impact, economic growth, investment, and regional development in Oregon for generations to come.

MEDFORD, Ore.—A Mexican National unlawfully residing in the United States, Samuel Rodrigo Melo Santos, 27, pleaded guilty to alien in possession of a firearm, and making false statements in acquisition of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon.

According to court documents, in July 2025, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) investigators, as part of a compliance inspection, began reviewing ATF Form 4473, known as the Firearms Transaction Records, of a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) in Cave Junction, Oregon. ATF Form 4473 must be completed by the person who is purchasing a firearm. During the inspection, investigators observed repeated sales of the same make and model of firearm by a group of individuals sharing the same address in O’Brien and Medford, Oregon, indicative of firearms trafficking.

On ATF Form 4473, defendants wrote “Mexico” for place of birth and checked the box next to the United States for country of citizenship. An immigration query into Melo Santos, and his co-defendants, concluded they have no legal status and are residing unlawfully in the United States.

Melo Santos told law enforcement that he bought firearms and sold them to anyone, including people who couldn’t legally buy them. Melo Santos purchased 91 firearms for $56,448 between May 2024 and July 2025 and 40,000 rounds of ammunition. One of these firearms was later found in Mexico. As part of the plea agreement, Melo Santos agreed to forfeit any criminally derived proceeds and property used to facilitate his crimes identified by the government prior to sentencing

Melo Santos faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and 3 years of supervised release. Melo Santos will be sentenced on October 9, 2026, before U.S. District Court Judge Michael McShane.

On December 18, 2025, Melo Santos, and three co-defendants made their first appearance in federal court before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. Co-defendants Samuel Amador Ortega, Aldo Melo Amador, and Oscar Amador Ortega are awaiting trial.

ATF is investigating the case with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Judith Harper is prosecuting the case.

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.

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PORTLAND, Ore.— Iranian National residing in Coos Bay pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud.

Mehrdad Gerami, Age 67, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud.

According to court documents, from 2021 to the present, Gerami was the owner and operator of Coastal Diagnostic Testing Group (CDTG).  CDTG operates out of Coos Bay, Brookings, Reedsport, Florence, and Roseburg, Oregon.  He and his employees overcharged the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Veteran’s Health Administration (VA), and numerous private insurance companies for intensive, in-office sleep studies.  CDTG billed for the more expensive in-office sleep studies when more inexpensive at-home sleep studies were actually conducted. Additionally, to generate more revenue in certain offices during months of low productivity, defendant instructed staff to falsely bill for sleep studies using patient information despite the studies never occurring on those dates. Gerami oversaw all aspects of the company’s operation and conspired with and directed employees to bill fraudulently.  The estimated loss is $2,124,363.41.

On June 22, 2026, Gerami was charged by Information with conspiracy to commit health care fraud.

Gerami faces a maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, and 3 years of supervised release. 

Gerami will be sentenced on January 26, 2027, before a U.S. district court judge.

As part of the plea agreement, Gerami has agreed to pay restitution in full to his victims.

This case was investigated by Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General and Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph Huynh and Julia Jarrett are prosecuting the case.

On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars.  Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.

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EUGENE, Ore.—A Springfield, Oregon man was sentenced to federal prison today for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford.

Robert Eugene Josh Jr, 65, was sentenced to 51 months in federal prison and 3 years’ supervised release. 25 months of the sentence was ordered to be served consecutively to a separate case.

According to court documents, in January 2024, Josh Jr. possessed almost three pounds of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it. In late January 2024, as part of a larger federal and state investigation, Eugene Police Department officers stopped Josh Jr.’s vehicle and located almost three pounds of methamphetamine. Josh Jr. told the officers he purchased the methamphetamine, was acting as a middleman, and was going to sell it to somebody else for a profit. Josh Jr. was also arrested for a shooting as part of a drug deal gone bad. Josh Jr. was convicted in Marion County Circuit Court of attempted assault I and unlawful use of a weapon. He was sentenced to 60 months in prison related to the shooting.

On May 5, 2026, Josh Jr. pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

On June 20, 2024, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned an indictment charging Josh Jr. with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the Eugene Police Department and the Springfield Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeff Sweet.

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.

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PORTLAND, Ore.—A Carlton, Oregon man was sentenced to federal prison today for 8 counts of production of child sexual abuse material announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford.

Robert Koester, 59, was sentenced to 40 years in federal prison and lifetime supervised release.

“Koester’s crimes against children are among the worst this district has seen. His violent abuse of these girls created scars they will carry their entire lives, and the images of that abuse will haunt them. I hope today’s sentence brings a measure of justice and healing for the victims. I am grateful for the work of the many investigative agencies that worked tirelessly to bring this terror against these teens to an end. The sentence of 40 years provides safety to Oregon and California and is emblematic of the violent crimes he committed,” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

“Today’s sentence underscores how seriously the FBI and our partners take crimes against children,” said FBI Portland Special Agent in Charge Doug Olson. “Koester used his role as a photographer to gain the trust of young people who were simply looking for a chance to pursue their dreams, and he exploited that trust. The courage these victims showed in coming forward made this outcome possible, and we stand with them as they continue to heal. We’re grateful for the work of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon in bringing this case to the finish line. What happened here caused real harm, and there is no place for this behavior in our community.”

According to court documents, Koester used his professional position as a photographer to meet and earn the trust of teenage girls who were pursuing careers in modeling. He exploited that trust by drugging, molesting, strangling, and raping the victims. He recorded much of this abuse and sold the child sexual abuse material (CSAM) to others.

Koester was a professional photographer who took photographs of aspiring models and did photography work for modeling agencies. Over the course of four years, from early 2015 through late 2018, Koester lured numerous teenage girls to his residence and other locations across California and Oregon. He enticed the girls with the promise of a career in the fashion industry through his modeling agency, Frank Model Management. He encouraged them to travel to his residence in Oregon, even paying for their flights. The children would stay in his residence for multiple days and participate in photo shoots.

During this time, Koester offered the victims alcohol and drugs, including marijuana and cocaine. He coerced them to do nude photo shoots by first showing them images of naked models, then convincing them to remove their clothes. He photographed the victims in revealing positions, sometimes using hidden cameras to capture more explicit angles without the victims’ knowledge. Koester further used GHB and other intoxicants to drug the girls, rendering them unconscious. He then abused the unconscious children sexually and physically and recorded the assaults. Koester often became violent in these assaults, strangling and slapping the girls. After the drugged assaults, he left the victims to wake up alone. Some of the victims were also coerced into engaging in sexual acts with him while awake. He recorded this abuse as well. Koester maintained a large collection of this self-produced CSAM, which included thousands of images. Koester was in his late forties and early fifties when these crimes occurred, and the girls were as young as fifteen.

Multiple children reported that Koester showed them the images of their own abuse and laugh while displaying the images of the abusive acts to them.  

In addition to criminally prosecuting Koester, the U.S. Attorney’s Office forfeited his Oregon residence in a civil forfeiture case, netting $750,000 in the sale. The criminal case also forfeited a large amount of photographic and digital equipment.

On November 13, 2018, Koester was arrested by California authorities.

Koester has pleaded guilty to related conduct in San Diego, California, and was sentenced to 25 years in prison. 

Koester also pleaded guilty to related conduct in Yamhill County, Oregon, and was sentenced to 50 years in prison.  He will serve those sentences concurrently with the federal sentence imposed today.

On July 16, 2019, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a 6-count indictment charging Koester with production of child sexual abuse material.

On August 19, 2020, Oregon adopted, from the District of Southern California, a 2-count information charging Koester with production of child sexual abuse material.

On March 10, 2026, Koester pleaded guilty to all 8 counts of production of child sexual abuse material in the two federal cases.

This case was investigated by FBI San Diego, FBI Portland, Carlsbad Police Department, and Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gary Sussman, Kate Rochat, Mira Chernick, and Julia Jarett.

This case was brought in collaboration with Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

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

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

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PORTLAND, Ore.—A Umatilla County man was sentenced to federal prison today for interference with commerce by robbery, felon in possession of a firearm with an armed career criminal enhancement, and attempt to commit murder.

Javier Vigil, 55, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison and 5 years’ supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $2,040.71 in restitution to the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Reservation.

“Vigil gambled and lost when he chose to rob this casino with a gun. His violent actions endangered innocent employees, patrons, and a law enforcement officer. He deserved and received the full consequences under federal law. Our tribal communities are incredibly important to me, and I will use every available federal resource to protect them and pursue justice on their behalf. I am also extremely grateful to the law enforcement officer, who risked his life that day to stop this defendant from harming anyone else.” Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney

According to court documents, on August 17, 2022, Javier Vigil went to the Wildhorse Resort and Casino on the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, in Pendleton, Oregon and passed a note demanding $1,000,000 from the cash cage teller. He then drew a pistol and pointed it at the teller. While the tellers gathered cash, he made threatening statements.

After he received over $69,000, he walked out of the casino.

Upon seeing a tribal police officer Vigil raised his firearm and shot at the officer.

Vigil and the officer exchanged gunfire, which resulted in Vigil being shot and falling to the ground. Vigil was then arrested on federal charges for this crime. A bystander outside the casino was also injured from a stray bullet.

Investigators learned that Vigil acquired the firearm around August 3, 2022, about two weeks prior to the robbery and shooting.

On December 19, 2023, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a 6-count superseding indictment charging Vigil with interference with commerce by robbery, two counts of use and carry of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, felon in possession of a firearm with an armed career criminal enhancement, attempt to commit murder, and assault with a dangerous weapon.

On April 7, 2026, on the second day of trial, Vigil pleaded guilty to interference with commerce by robbery, felon in possession of a firearm with an armed career criminal enhancement, and attempt to commit murder.

This case was investigated by the FBI and the Umatilla Tribal Police Department, with the assistance of ATF, the Hermiston Police Department, the Pendleton Police Department, Oregon State Police, Umatilla County Sheriff’s Office, and Morrow County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cassady Adams and Arin Heinz prosecuted the case.

# # #

The City of Richland has postponed the National Night Out & City Fair, scheduled for Tuesday, August 4, due to forecasted unhealthy air quality resulting from smoke from surrounding wildfires across the Pacific Northwest. 

Out of an abundance of caution, City leadership, in consultation with surrounding jurisdictions, and with information provided by the WA State Department of Ecology and the Benton Clean Air Agency, determined that postponing the event is the best decision to protect the health and safety of community members, volunteers, vendors, public safety personnel, and City staff. 

The City has rescheduled National Night Out & City Fair for Thursday, August 20, 5:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at Howard Amon Park.   

National Night Out & City Fair is one of Richland's signature community events, bringing together thousands of residents, families, and public safety partners for an evening focused on neighborhood connections, public safety, and community engagement. With current air quality conditions expected to create unhealthy outdoor conditions, the City believes postponement is the most responsible course of action. 

"We know many families, community partners, sponsors, and staff have been looking forward to this event," said City Manager Jon Amundson. "While we are disappointed to postpone, the health and safety of our community must come first. We appreciate everyone's understanding and look forward to bringing the community together as soon as conditions allow." 

The City of Richland appreciates the support of its many sponsors, community organizations, volunteers, and public safety partners whose contributions make this event possible each year. 

For updates, visit RichlandWA.gov/NNO. 

Drivers should plan for an overnight closure of Steptoe Street between Canyon Street and the Columbia Park Trail/WSDOT roundabout on Friday, August 7, from 7:00 p.m. to Saturday, August 8, at 7:00 a.m.

The closure is necessary to allow crews to complete work associated with the reconstruction and realignment of the Steptoe Street and Tapteal Drive intersection.

During the closure, Steptoe Street will be closed to through traffic between Canyon Street and the roundabout. Drivers should follow posted detour routes and allow extra travel time.

This work marks another significant milestone in the project, which is expected to continue through mid-August. Once complete, the improvements will enhance traffic flow, safety, and infrastructure in one of Richland's busiest transportation corridors.

The City appreciates the public's patience as crews work to complete the project safely and efficiently.

For more information regarding this project, visit richlandwa.gov/SteptoeTapteal

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- MEDIA ADVISORY -- AUGUST 6, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Award-Winning Capital City Retro Fest Returns to Salem Aug. 14-16

Three-night, all-ages music festival returns to Riverfront Park following Oregon Festivals & Events Association Music Festival of the Year honor.

SALEM, Ore. – August 4, 2026 — After earning the Oregon Festivals & Events Association's Music Festival of the Year award following its inaugural season, Capital City Retro Fest returns to the Gerry Frank | Salem Rotary Amphitheater Aug. 14-16 for three nights of live music, food and family-friendly entertainment.

The festival features nine tribute bands celebrating the music of artists including the Fleetwood Mac, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Def Leppard, Foo Fighters, Tom Petty, Alanis Morissette, Duran Duran, U2, Hall & Oates and the Doobie Brothers.

Presented by Harefest, LLC, the festival offers an affordable outdoor concert experience in the scenic setting of Salem's Riverfront Park, bringing together music fans of all ages for a weekend celebrating some of the most recognizable songs in rock history.

Beyond the music, attendees can enjoy local food vendors, alcoholic beverages for guests 21 and over, misting tents, free water refill stations, family-friendly activities, and the festival's interactive photo stage, where fans can grab an instrument and capture their own rock star moment.

"There's something special about hearing thousands of people sing along to songs they've loved for decades," said Jason Fellman, co-founder of Harefest, LLC. "Capital City Retro Fest brings generations together through music that's stood the test of time, all in one of the most beautiful outdoor settings in Oregon."

The festival was created to provide an accessible, high-quality live music experience in downtown Salem while contributing to the city's growing lineup of summer events. Organizers expect attendees from throughout the Willamette Valley and beyond to gather at Riverfront Park for the second annual celebration.

Festival gates open Friday and Saturday at 6:00 p.m. with music beginning at 7:00 p.m. Sunday's gates open at 4:00 p.m. with music beginning at 5:00 p.m.

Tickets are on sale now. Single-day and three-day passes are available, and children 12 and under are admitted free with a paid adult.

For tickets and complete festival information, visit CapCityRetro.com.  

About Harefest, LLC

Harefest, LLC produces live music festivals and entertainment experiences throughout the Pacific Northwest, including HAREFEST: The Mother of All Tribute Festivals, Capital City Retro Fest, Legends Reloaded, 90's Flannel Fest, and Seattle Retro Fest. The company is dedicated to creating memorable live music experiences that bring communities together through the music they love.

Media Contact

Jason Fellman
Harefest, LLC
canbyharefest@gmail.com