PORTLAND, Ore.— A Portland man pleaded guilty today to arson at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in South Portland.

Trenten Edward Barker, 34, pleaded guilty to Arson of a Federal Building.

According to court documents, on June 11, 2025, a group of individuals began constructing a barricade of large objects and debris against the vehicle gate of the ICE building to prevent law enforcement officers from exiting through the gate. Barker lit a flare from his backpack and threw it onto the pile of debris. The flare ignited the debris, causing a fire to start.

On October 22, 2025, Barker was charged by information with Arson of a Federal Building.

Barker faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a 250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on March 4, 2026, before a U.S. District Court Judge.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Portland Police Bureau. The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

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Portland, OR — Kick off the holiday season on Sunday, December 7 at Holiday Cheer: A Celebration of Oregon Authors. Visit with more than 65 local writers from 12pm to 4pm as you sip on hot cocoa, enjoy festive treats, and get a jump on your holiday shopping! Admission is free and includes access to both the book sale and museum exhibitions.

This year, some of the Pacific Northwest’s most prominent authors will be at OHS selling everything from children’s books to guidebooks to mysteries to histories! Featured authors include Pulitzer Prize–winning cartoonist Jack Ohman, New York Times bestselling historical fiction author Kristina McMorris, Oregon Secretary of State Tobias Read, journalist and podcaster Leah Sottile, and Steve Prefontaine biographer Brendan O’Meara. View a full list of participating authors at ohs.org/holidaycheer.

To add to the festivities, the popular Meier & Frank Santaland display will be back on view! Generations of Oregonians have fond memories of the downtown Portland Meier & Frank department store’s Santaland. A ride on the iconic Monorail and a chance to sit on Santa’s lap became a Christmas tradition for many families. Following the closure of Macy’s downtown store (which purchased Meier & Frank in 2005), a small number of items from Santaland were donated to OHS, which have been displayed annually since 2018. Come share in the holiday cheer with a visit to this nostalgic display, featuring Rudolph, animatronic elves, holiday decor, a model of the beloved monorail. The well-remembered Cinnamon Bear costume from Lipman’s holiday traditions will also be on display.

The museum galleries will be open from 12pm to 5pm. In addition to Santaland, featured exhibitions will include:

• She Flies with Her Own Wings, a look at Oregon’s golden age of aviation in the 1930s that shares how flight reshaped lives and technology.
• June Drake: Preserving the Past to Shape the Future, a retrospective of photographer June D. Drake’s work documenting life in Silverton, Oregon, and surrounding areas and the evolution of rural Oregon over six decades.
• The Yasui Family: An American Story, which shares one Oregon family’s experiences of racism, incarceration, and their unwavering commitment to justice, reflecting broader civil rights struggles in America.
• “We Were All Living a Dream”, a photographic exhibition of Donna Pollach’s intimate portraits of feminist and lesbian communities in 1970s Portland, chronicling their activism, camaraderie, and challenges.

For 56 years, OHS has celebrated the state’s rich literary talents at this annual book signing event. Book sales at Holiday Cheer support the Oregon Historical Society’s mission to preserve our state’s history and make it accessible to everyone in ways that advance knowledge and inspire curiosity about all the people, places, and events that have shaped Oregon.

About the Oregon Historical Society

For more than 125 years, the Oregon Historical Society has served as the state’s collective memory, preserving a vast collection of objects, photographs, maps, manuscript materials, books, films, and oral histories. Our research library, museum, digital platforms, educational programming, and historical journal make Oregon’s history open and accessible to all. We exist because history is powerful, and because a history as deep and complex as Oregon’s cannot be contained within a single story or point of view.

Milton-Freewater, Ore. -- The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Milton-Freewater office plans to move into a new location Monday, December 8. The office will move from its current location at 309 N. Columbia Street to 151 Sykes Boulevard, Suite A.

The new office will include Self-Sufficiency Program (SSP), Oregon Eligibility Partnership, Child Welfare (CW), Aging and People with Disabilities and Vocational Rehabilitation programs. Also, several community partners will be in the new office on select days, including: Oregon Employment Department, Training Employment Consortium and Domestic Violence Services. The office will be open weekdays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The 18 staff members will move in throughout the weekend through Monday morning.

“It will be such a meaningful change, and we’re truly excited about the new office,” Dianna Ilaoa, SSP District Manager, said. “This isn’t just a new building — it’s a space created with care for our staff, our clients and the community we serve. We hope everyone who walks through the doors feels supported, welcomed and valued.” Lidwinner Machado is the CW District Manager.

The new office has an indoor and an outdoor play area for children. The space is designed to be trauma-informed, with calming colors, quite spaces, white noise for privacy in conversations and modern, comfortable furniture for client visits. There will be increased bus service for several weeks in the area for greater convenience to people coming to the new office. ODHS will be leasing half of the 151 Sykes Boulevard building. They had been in their former building for more than 30 years.

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About ODHS

The ODHS programs provide financial supports to families which include SNAP, TANF, Domestic Violence Survivor Benefits, child care and medical benefits. The JOBS program connects families to a Family Coach for an assessment and supports to achieve their goals and create pathways out of poverty. ODHS staff assist individuals and families in navigating resources, including finding and funding childcare, providing gas support, and offering transportation to domestic violence shelters, medical appointments, and other essential visits. ODHS collaborates with various partners to address family needs and connects families to affordable housing, as well as mental health and other needed resources. ODHS works with other providers to provide employment and education opportunities, ensuring access to vital community resources.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
November 19, 2025
 

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Gail Krumenauer, State Employment Economist

(971) 301-3771

Video and Audio available at 10 a.m. PT

David Cooke, Economist (971) 375-5288

Employment Reports Delayed Again After Federal Government Shutdown

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has resumed production of the monthly employment reports for the nation on a delayed schedule after the lapse in federal government appropriations that began on Oct. 1, 2025.

The most recent update from the BLS on Wednesday, Nov. 19 says, “BLS will not publish an October 2025 Employment Situation news release. Establishment survey data from the Current Employment Statistics survey for October 2025 will be published with the November 2025 data. Household survey data from the Current Population Survey could not be collected for the October 2025 reference period due to a lapse in appropriations. The household survey data is not able to be retroactively collected. The collection period for November 2025 data will be extended for both surveys, and extra processing time will be added.”

Currently, Oregon’s monthly nonfarm job estimates and unemployment rate are still not available beyond August 2025 and publication dates for the states and metropolitan areas have not been announced.

As of August, preliminary estimates showed Oregon’s unemployment rate was 5.0%, and employers added 6,900 jobs to nonfarm payrolls. In the absence of these current, principle monthly indicators, the Oregon Employment Department’s Workforce and Economic Research Division continues tracking trends in the department’s other data sources to assess the labor market. These include job vacancies and unemployment insurance claims.

Oregon’s latest quarterly job vacancy survey results show hiring demand remained generally stable over the past year, but did not increase as much as would typically occur mid-year. Oregon’s private employers have reported between about 50,000 and 54,000 job vacancies at any given time from October 2024 to September 2025.

Claims for unemployment insurance (UI) show a partial picture, as only a portion of all unemployed Oregonians are eligible for these benefits. First-time or initial UI claims in recent weeks appeared to be within the typical range for this time of year. Ongoing or continued claims have followed seasonal trends, but at elevated levels compared with recent years. Oregon has averaged 33,600 continued claims per week so far in 2025, about 5,600 (or 20%) higher than the average during the same timeframe in 2024.

Next Press Releases

The BLS will update its revised news release schedule as new information becomes available. The Oregon Employment Department plans to highlight the latest available local labor market news on QualityInfo.org on Tuesday, Nov. 25. The Research Division’s schedule of future releases will be updated as federal partner agencies issue more guidance.

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SALEM, Ore. — The Emergency Fire Cost Committee (EFCC) will meet at 10 a.m. on Nov. 26, 2025, in the Tillamook Room, Building C, Oregon Department of Forestry at 2600 State Street in Salem. This is the first meeting of the new EFCC since the passage of HB 3940 in the 2025 Legislative Session that resulted in changes to committee membership, fiduciary responsibilities and purpose. The new law shifts the committee's focus from large fire costs to preparedness (district and association fiscal budgets) but retains strategic investment authority. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Selection of committee chair
• Fire season report
• Discussion of EFCC’s new role in the statewide protection system under House Bill (HB) 3940
• Decisions on policy and Oregon Administrative Rule changes resulting from HB 3940
• 2026 meeting schedule
• Administrator report

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

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

Economic Resilience Improves State's Financial Stability

Salem, OR – Carl Riccadonna, state chief economist and Michael Kennedy, senior economist of the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) Office of Economic Analysis (OEA), presented the latest economic outlook and revenue forecast to the legislative committee on finance and revenue. The quarterly revenue forecasts serve to open the revenue forecasting process to public review and is the basis for much of the Oregon state government budgeting process.

What is Different About this Forecast?

The Office of Economic Analysis provides quarterly forecasts for the state of Oregon’s major revenue sources, including all sources contributing to the General Fund (Personal and Corporate Income Tax, etc.), Lottery and the Corporate Activity Tax. The Q4-December economic outlook, while complicated by a lack of government economic statistics resulting from the federal government shutdown, reflects continued economic resilience both nationally and within the state. Recession risks appear to be diminishing, and the forecasts for 2026 has improved modestly.

Revenue Forecast

The revenue forecast for 2025-27 has increased $309.5 million, due largely to recent strength in Corporate Income Tax receipts. Corporate Income Tax exhibits significant quarter-to-quarter volatility, making it one of the more difficult revenue streams to forecast. For all other revenues, mild improvement in the economic landscape and outlook translate into a slight uptick in expected receipts for the biennium. The projected General Fund ending balance has improved, from a deficit of $372.7 million to a deficit of $63.1 million from last quarter.

About the Office of Economic Analysis

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

Links: https://www.oregon.gov/das/oea/pages/index.aspx.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Contact: Colin Fogarty 

Director of Communications 

ty@oregoncf.org" target="_blank">Cfogarty@oregoncf.org

Oregon Community Foundation and Donors Commit $1.9 Million to Organizations That Feed Hungry Oregonians

Donations and Grants Support Nonprofits Providing Food and Nutrition Services throughout Oregon

PORTLAND, Ore. — The recent disruption in federal food assistance has generated a wave of generosity from Oregonians. In just six weeks, Oregon Community Foundation and its donors have committed $1.9 million to organizations that help get food to Oregonians who need it. 

The surge in giving between October 1 and November 17, 2025 happened when generous Oregonians stepped up to help through Donor Advised Funds, Corporate and Community Advised Funds and donations to the Stronger Together Fund of OCF. Separately, the OCF Board of Directors has approved a $250,000 special grant from OCF to combat food insecurity in Oregon and 18 grants totaling $300,000 to food-related organizations through the OCF Community Grants program. 

Donors Motivated by Disruption to Federal Food Benefits 

Financial support for food and nutrition services spiked in mid-October when news broke that a federal government shutdown would disrupt federal food benefits known as SNAP for 757,000 Oregonians. In response, donors began making grants to nonprofits that feed Oregonians as visits to those organizations increased sharply. 

“Oregonians help their neighbors in times of need,” said Lisa Mensah, President and CEO of Oregon Community Foundation. Mensah also serves on the board of Feeding America, a nationwide network of 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries and programs.  

“When our food bank system said, ‘We have lines out the door and not enough food on our shelves,’ our donors heard the call and said, ‘Not on our watch,’” she said. “I’m so grateful to our donors, philanthropic partners and the nonprofit partners and volunteers who do the hard work of feeding our communities day after day.” 

The disruption to SNAP benefits began November 1. In response, Oregon Community Foundation called on donors to help stabilize and support the network of food banks, food pantries and other organizations that distribute food. Donors responded with contributions flowing into the Stronger Together Fund of Oregon Community Foundation, which is giving all money raised between November 1 and December 5 to food-related nonprofits.  

Hunger Touches Every Community 

A vast network helps feed Oregonians experiencing food insecurity. The Oregon Food Bank partners with 21 regional food banks and more than 1,200 food assistances sites. In addition, many organizations operate food assistance programs outside of the Oregon Food Bank. 

At an Oregon Community Foundation virtual briefing last week, food bank leaders and foundation partners described a system grappling with the twin challenges of a diminished food supply and unprecedented demand.  

Cuts to the federal funding that helps fill food bank shelves reduced the flow of food into Oregon at the same time rising food, housing and energy costs caused more people to visit food banks to make ends meet. The disruption to SNAP benefits put that dynamic, “on steroids,” said Scott Cooper, Executive Director of NeighborImpact. He said his Central Oregon food banks will see nearly 1 million visits this year in a region with soaring housing costs. 

One regional food bank leader described parents parking blocks away from the food bank and arriving with a child on their hip, towing a wagon to fill with food.  

“They need to be fed,” said Lori Garrard, Executive Director of Klamath-Lake Counties Food Bank. 

Marion Polk Food Share President and CEO Rick Gaupo shared about a working mom who lost $500 in food benefits at the start of November. She turned to her local pantry for the first time when she couldn’t get more work.  

Hunger More Common in Rural Areas 

One in eight Oregonians experience hunger, and in rural and remote Oregon, residents face food insecurity rates nearly double those in urban areas. 

Roundhouse Foundation Executive Director Erin Borla shared at the virtual briefing that the private family foundation will give $6 million over the next three years to support rural Oregon food banks. Private foundations including the Ford Family Foundation, Meyer Memorial Trust, the Lora & Martin Kelley Family Foundation and others are also giving generously to food and food-related organizations.  

Borla offered stories of hope from rural communities. 

“I have heard specifically of community dinners in small rural places where they feed 160 people a week. We've got libraries that are showing up with meals on a weekly basis,” Borla said. “There was a high school here locally, and instead of trick-or-treating, the high school students planned and picked up bags of donated food from everybody's porch. People are showing up in a way that really does build community.” 

OCF donors have seen the need up close. 

“Food insecurity doesn’t stop at the city limits,” says Betsy Priddy, an OCF donor. “After visiting Eastern Oregon, I witnessed first-hand the deep relationships forged even in our most remote communities. Local organizations are doing transformative work on modest budgets, proving that impact isn’t measured in dollars alone. For me, it’s simple: I support OCF in deploying resources where they will make the greatest difference.” 

About Oregon Community Foundation 

Since 1973, Oregon Community Foundation has worked to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. In partnership with donors and volunteers, OCF strengthens communities in every county in Oregon through grantmaking, scholarships and research. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, visit oregoncf.org. 

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PORTLAND, Ore.— Three men associated with the Sureño street gang have been charged with felon in possession of a firearm after the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) engaged in multiple undercover purchases of firearms and machine gun conversion devices.

Cesar Daniel Arevalo, 36, of Portland, Oregon and Jose Luis Brown Ceballos, 35, and Jose Luis Diaz Ceballos, 24, of Salem, Oregon, have been charged by criminal complaint with Felon in Possession of a Firearm.

According to court documents, from July 2025 through November 2025, ATF undercover agents engaged in multiple undercover purchase operations involving Arevalo and his associates. Undercover agents purchased a total of 15 firearms (four modified to machineguns), 58 machinegun conversion devices, and cocaine from Arevalo and his associates, including Diaz Ceballos.

On November 13, 2025, Arevalo, Brown Ceballos, Diaz Ceballos, and a juvenile conducted an armed protection of an undercover narcotics transaction in Salem. When the transaction was completed, the armed suspects were arrested by ATF agents. Four firearms were recovered from the scene.

The ATF and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Bockelman is prosecuting the case.

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

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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At 11:46pm, November 17^th, Bend Fire and Rescue crews were dispatched to a structure fire at a single family home behind Three Sisters Adventist Christian School, off of Tumalo road. The resident reported being woken up to what sounded like a “hail storm.” She didn’t notice any fire inside the home but when she went outside, she found flames coming from under the eaves and roof, near the stovepipe of the woodstove. Due to the absence of smoke in the home at that time, smoke alarms did not go off. Because of their quick actions, all 5 residents, including three children and multiple pets, were able to exit the manufactured home safely.  The fire was ignited from the radiant heat of the woodstove pipe that was too close to the wooden facia board of the eaves. The woodstove pipe melted the vinyl rain gutter and ignited the eaves, which spread to the attic. The fire was contained and did not spread to the interior of the home, however, the water and roof damage makes the home unihabitable.  Building loss is estimated at $65,000 and content loss estimated at $25,000.

We want to remind residents that having a home fire escape plan can be crucial in being able to escape quickly and safely from a house fire. Always have a plan for your family and pets. For help information in creating, practicing and implementing a home fire escape plan with your family, please call Bend Fire & Rescue.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  
Nov. 18, 2025

Media Contact: Communications@employ.oregon.gov

Unemployment Insurance tax and Paid Leave Oregon contribution rates hold steady for 2026
 

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Employment Department has announced that the tax schedule for Unemployment Insurance (UI) and the contribution rate for Paid Leave Oregon will not change in 2026. Oregon will remain in Tax Schedule 3 for Unemployment Insurance, and the Paid Leave Oregon contribution rate will remain at 1 percent.

“Keeping these rates flat is important for Oregon’s economy, especially as businesses navigate increasing economic uncertainty,” Employment Director Andrew R. Stolfi said. “Both of our trust funds are healthy and stable, and we remain committed to operating these programs as efficiently as possible to minimize the impact on employers.”

Employers can view their specific 2026 rate information in their Frances Online account. The department has also mailed each employer their annual notice of the new rates.

2026 Unemployment Insurance Tax Rate 

The department uses a formula established by Oregon statute to calculate the annual payroll tax rate. Most Oregon employers pay payroll taxes that go into Oregon’s Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund, which is the source of Unemployment Insurance benefits for Oregon workers. Workers do not contribute to this fund or to their unemployment benefits. 

Oregon will remain in Tax Schedule 3 for 2026. The taxable wage base – the maximum amount of wages subject to Unemployment Insurance taxes – is based on the annual average wage in Oregon. OED uses a statutory formula to calculate the annual average wage, which tends to rise annually, largely due to inflation.

Following the increase in Oregon’s annual average wage, the taxable wage base will rise 4.4 percent in 2026, from $54,300 per employee in 2025 to $56,700:

For new employers (those with less than 12 months of reported payroll), the Unemployment Insurance payroll base tax rate will remain at 2.4% for 2026. 

“The fact that we are able to keep the same tax schedule next year, even as the unemployment rate has been rising slowly, is a testament to how well Oregon’s system works compared to other states,” Stolfi added. “As a self-balancing fund, Oregon’s Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund is one of the healthiest in the country.”

The goal of the statutory formula is to reach a balance between revenue and expenditures, where the state takes in about the same amount of money in taxes as it pays out in Unemployment Insurance benefits. The trust fund balance also earns interest, which helps keep employers’ tax rates lower.

2026 Paid Leave Oregon Contribution Rate 

The Paid Leave Oregon contribution rate for 2026 will remain at 1%. The four-year-old trust fund continues to cover benefits as well as the administrative costs to run the program.

Both employers and employees pay contributions to the Paid Leave Oregon Trust Fund, which provides benefits for Oregon workers. Employees pay 60 percent of the rate and employers (with 25 employees or more) pay 40 percent.

The level of subject wages for Paid Leave Oregon contributions, set by the annual Social Security taxable maximum wage amount, will rise 4.7 percent to $184,500 of wages per employee in 2026, also generally due to inflation.

“Local businesses are the heart of Oregon’s economy, so we want to make it as easy as possible to manage their payroll reporting and employee benefit requests,” Stolfi said. “We are here to help employers through every step of this important process.”

The overall UI tax and Paid Leave Contribution rates for 2025 and 2026 are posted on the Employment Department website at employers.oregon.gov.

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About Unemployment Insurance

Oregon’s Unemployment Insurance Program supports people and communities when facing economic uncertainty. For those who are unemployed through no fault of their own, the temporary, partial wage replacement offers financial security while seeking new work. Benefit payments also soften the local economic shock caused by layoffs and help keep skilled workers in their communities. Benefits come from Oregon employers’ payroll taxes, not workers’ paychecks. Learn more at unemployment.oregon.gov.

About Paid Leave Oregon

Paid Leave Oregon provides temporary, paid time away from work so employees can have financial security when experiencing significant life events. Covered events include welcoming a new child, recovering from a serious health condition, caring for a family member with a serious health condition, or addressing issues related to sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, or harassment. Paid leave benefits help Oregonians stay connected to their jobs and maintain financial stability during these major personal events. Learn more at paidleave.orogon.gov.

The Oregon Employment Department (OED) is an equal opportunity agency. OED provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1444. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to communications@employ.oregon.gov.

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

November 18, 2025

Media contact: Timothy Heider,  PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory lifted for Hells Canyon Reservoir

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

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Hells Canyon Reservoir in Baker and Wallowa Counties.

OHA issued the advisory Aug 20.

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Hells Canyon Reservoir are below recreational guideline values for people. However, levels detected may still above OHA’s educational guideline values for dogs. Pet owners should therefore keep their pets away from areas that have the appearance of a cyanobacteria bloom.

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 http://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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PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland, Oregon, man made his initial appearance yesterday in federal court after trespassing on the grounds of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) building, failing to obey a lawful order, and obstructing federal property.

Christopher Griffin, 37, has been charged by information with Failing to Obey a Lawful Order, Obstructing Federal Property, and Trespassing on Federal Property.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 16, 2025, Griffin entered the grounds of the ICE building in Portland. Griffin remained on the grounds, failing to comply with the lawful direction of federal officers and was arrested. Griffin was also charged with failing to comply with an officer’s orders to leave the premises on October 22, 2025, and for obstructing the use and access to federal property on November 14, 2025.

Griffin made his first appearance in federal court yesterday before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was ordered released pending further court proceedings. As part of his release conditions, Griffin was ordered to stay away from the ICE building.

The Federal Protective Service is investigating the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon is prosecuting the case.

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

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  
Nov. 18, 2025

Media Contact: Communications@employ.oregon.gov

MEDIA ADVISORY

Federal shutdown delays Oregon Employment Department’s monthly economic reporting
 

SALEM, Ore. — Although the federal shutdown has ended and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has resumed operations, the Oregon Employment Department (OED) is not able to prepare its monthly statewide employment report this week as originally scheduled due to a continued lack of federal data.OED was also unable to prepare a full report in October for the same reason.

The next monthly report was scheduled to be released on Wednesday, Nov. 19.The Employment Department has also canceled its monthly media briefing on Thursday, Nov. 20.

OED is in close communication with BLS officials and is awaiting information and guidance about federal survey data for the months of September and October that were impacted by the shutdown. OED uses that data to prepare the monthly report, including the state’s unemployment rate and nonfarm payroll employment.

OED hopes to have more information soon and will provide an update on the schedule for releasing payroll and unemployment data when it is available.

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The Oregon Employment Department (OED) is an equal opportunity agency. OED provides free help so you can use our services. Some examples are sign language and spoken language interpreters, written materials in other languages, large print, audio, and other formats. To get help, please call 503-947-1444. TTY users call 711. You can also send an email to communications@employ.oregon.gov.

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

This Saturday, November 22, the Bend Firefighters will host their annual Moustache Bash – a fundraiser supporting the Bend Firefighter’s Community Assistance Program. The fundraiser will take place from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at 10 Barrel Brewing – East (62950 NE 18^th Street, Bend).

Community members are invited to dress up as their favorite action hero and join in on the fun while supporting a good cause.

Bash-goers will have opportunities to win prizes throughout the evening. Activities include:

• Costume Contest - This year’s theme is action heroes – suit up and have a chance to win!
• Moustache Contest - Featuring categories for everyone – including fake moustaches.
• Raffle – Raffle tickets are available for purchase. Enter to win one of many prizes donated by local businesses.

The Bend Firefighter’s Community Assistance Program is a nonprofit started by Bend firefighters to help meet identified needs and respond to crises in the Bend community. Firefighters often encounter difficult situations where families require help beyond traditional fire department services.

Learn more about the Bend Fire Community Assistance Program or donate today at bendcommunityassistance.org. 

At 1136 hours on Friday, November 14 2025, Bend Fire & Rescue was dispatched to a reported garage fire on River Bend Drive in the Deschutes River Woods area.  First arriving crews found a working fire on the back side of the garage that was beginning to extend toward the residence.  The occupant had evacuated the home with her dog and was a safe distance from structures.  Crews were able to knock down the fire quickly, limiting damage to the residence to some charring on the exterior porch railing.  The garage sustained moderate fire damage, with radiant heat and smoke damage to the contents of the garage.  A lean-to structure attached to the back of the garage was a complete loss.  

Upon investigation, it was found that ashes and char from a previous debris burn had been placed into a plastic bag and set at the edge of the lean-to structure, which was used to store firewood.  Ashes can remain hot for several days, particularly if there are larger pieces present within the ash.  Bend Fire & Rescue recommends that ash, whether from a debris burn, the fireplace, or the woodstove, be placed into a metal container with a lid (never a paper or plastic bag) and put outdoors onto a non-combustible surface such as concrete, metal, or bare dirt.  Fill the bucket with water, and wait at least 24-48 hours before disposing of the material.  For more home fire safety information, visit Informational Videos and Virtual Tours | City of Bend.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

YAKIMA, WA (November 18, 2025) – The Yakima School District (YSD) is thrilled to announce it has been awarded a $200,000 preliminary planning grant through the privately funded Ballmer Summer Discovery initiative. This significant early-stage investment will support YSD's efforts to design and launch a comprehensive, high-quality, no-cost summer learning program for students beginning in Summer 2026.

The preliminary funds will be used to develop detailed plans for the "Summer Discovery" program, which is designed to elevate enrichment access, reduce summer learning loss, and extend strategic educational goals into year-round opportunities. The total grant award is intended to support the comprehensive expenses of operating the summer learning program.

The Summer Discovery program will be offered free of charge to families and is aimed at rising 1st through 9th grade students (current kindergarten through 8th grade), and YSD has 20 eligible elementary and middle schools that could potentially benefit from the program. The initiative emphasizes full-day programs that advance educational outcomes and keep children safe and engaged in learning over the summer.

“We are grateful for the confidence this grant reflects in the Yakima School District’s ability to deliver high-impact programming,” said Dr. Trevor Greene, Superintendent of Yakima School District. “This $200,000 grant provides a runway to design a Summer Discovery program that is not only academically rigorous, but deeply enriching, culturally responsive, and engaging for students and families. Our goal is simple: eliminate summer learning loss and expand opportunity—because our students’ potential should never take a break.”

The district is partnering with the Association of Educational Service Districts (AESD) on the grant administration.

About Yakima School District (YSD):

The Yakima School District is dedicated to providing a high-quality education and a safe, supportive learning environment for every student. Located in Eastern Washington, YSD is committed to innovation, equity, and fostering opportunities that prepare students for success in college, career, and life.

Toppenish High School students are in for a unique opportunity on Tuesday, November 18, 2025 from 9:30-11:00 a.m., as Hacer International, in partnership with McDonald’s and CoolSpeak, brings its national Educational Tour to the Toppenish School District.

The 1.5-hour assembly will feature nationally recognized CoolSpeak motivational speakers who will share powerful messages about college, scholarships, and perseverance. The event also introduces students to the McDonald’s HACER National Scholarship and includes engaging, gamified activities designed to inspire and empower students to reach their goals.

As part of the tour, two Toppenish educators will be recognized with a $500 award for their innovation and positive impact on students. Toppenish High School is one of only twelve schools across the nation selected to host this first-class experience.

“This event is an incredible opportunity for our students to hear motivating stories from people who have overcome challenges and achieved success,” said Erica Macias Tait, Assistant Principal of Toppenish High School. “We’re grateful to Hacer International and McDonald’s for recognizing Toppenish and for supporting our students’ postsecondary dreams.”

Members of the media are invited to attend and capture photos and video footage of the event. If you would like to attend, please confirm with our district’s Director of Public Relations prior to the event. 

The Toppenish School District is proud to host events that connect students to opportunities for growth, leadership, and learning beyond the classroom.

For more information about the HACER Educational Tour, visit www.mcdonalds.com/hacer.

Good afternoon,

We are happy to be through the shutdown so we can again share newsworthy cases being handled by our office.  Since we were not able to share these during the shutdown, we have compiled group press releases on noteworthy cases with links to the full press releases if you would like to review additional details on any given case.  There are three categories of press releases highlighting a total of 19 separate cases/investigations: (1) Transnational Drug Trafficking and Weapons Offenses; (2) Violent Crime and Child Exploitation cases; and (3) Fraud, Waste and Abuse cases.  Like many federal employees across the Nation, the dedicated public servants at the United States Attorney’s Office continued to work without pay throughout the shutdown to ensure the ongoing protection of the community.  As these cases show, the USAO has continued to obtain excellent results that have kept people safe from drugs and guns, child exploitation, and fraud, among other offenses.  Please feel free to reach out with any questions.  Thank you. 

As the South George Washington Way Improvements Project nears completion, The City of Richland advises motorists of several traffic impacts occurring over the next two weeks. Drivers should plan for delays, use alternate routes when possible, and follow all posted signage and flagger instructions.

Daily Northbound Lane Closures

Beginning immediately and continuing over the next two weeks, periodic northbound right lane closures will occur each day, starting at 9:00 a.m. or later.

Wednesday, November 19 – All-Day Closures

• George Washington Way northbound left-turn lane to Aaron Drive closed all day.
• George Washington Way Southbound far left through lane closed south of the Aaron Drive Intersection.
  These closures accommodate patching in the previously removed dual-faced curb area.

Overnight Work: November 19–20

Wednesday, November 19 at 9:00 p.m. to Thursday, November 20 at 5:00 a.m.
The George Washington Way / Columbia Point Drive intersection will be periodically controlled by flaggers to support the safe removal of the existing traffic signal and transition to the new signal. Additional striping installation and removal will occur to align new traffic lanes.

Southbound Lane Closures Near Aaron Drive

• November 21
• November 24–26
  Southbound right lane closures will take place to support the demolition of old signal equipment and roadway patching.

Columbia Point Drive Closure — Wednesday, November 26

Beginning Wednesday, November 26 at 9:00 a.m., Columbia Point Drive will be closed at George Washington Way to allow for final roadway patching.

• The southbound left-turn lane onto Columbia Point Drive will also be closed.
• A detour will be in place via Comstock Street and Bradley Boulevard.

Plan Ahead and Expect Delays

These traffic modifications are necessary to support signal upgrades, pavement patching, and lane alignment as part of this multi-phase project. Motorists are encouraged to slow down, stay alert, and use caution when traveling through construction areas.

For project updates, visit: richlandwa.gov/SouthGWay.

November 17, 2025

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

Extremely high microcystin levels detected in the Barnes Unit of the Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge

OHA urges caution for dog owners and waterfowl hunters

KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. - Oregon Health Authority (OHA) urges caution for dog owns and waterfowl hunters after extremely high microcystin levels were detected in the Barnes Unit of the Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge.

The sample was taken from an area currently open for waterfowl hunting during the 2025–2026 season. The Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge has been under a recreational advisory since July 9.

Microcystin is a cyanotoxin produced by certain harmful algal blooms. Exposure can cause acute liver damage in people and is often fatal to dogs. Hunters should avoid using contaminated water for cleaning gear or handling harvested birds.

Dogs are at increased risk for exposure because of their size and level of activity. They can become extremely ill and die from water intoxication after drinking excessive amounts of water while swimming or fetching objects for long periods of time.

Symptoms

Symptoms of microcystin exposure may be similar to food poisoning such as stomach cramping, 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 experience weakness, difficulty walking, seizures, lethargy, loss of appetite and more. If a dog exhibits symptoms, veterinary treatment should be sought as quickly as possible.

For more information about the advisory issued for waterfowl hunting in the Barnes Unit of the Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge, visit the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) news website.

For health information or to report an illness, contact OHA at 1-877-290-6767, or visit OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website.

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CORRECTION: This news release has been reissued to correct a typo.

November 17, 2025

Media contact: Franny White, anny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">franny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov, 971-349-3539 

Seeking health care affordability, OHA finds five organizations didn't meet acceptable cost growth standards in 2023 

WorkSource Columbia Basin invites businesses and job seekers to our first ever Monthly Career Connection event, reviving the energy and purpose of pre-COVID career fairs.

Employers are encouraged to come ready to hire or provide a realistic timeline for hiring. This event is designed to foster meaningful connections that lead to employment, not just collect resumes. Laptops and computers will be available on-site so job seekers can apply immediately.

Space is limited to 10 employers, and registration is required by Tuesday, November 11, 2025. Businesses can register using the QR code on the flyer or by emailing wscbemployers@esd.wa.gov to receive a registration link.

Job seekers are invited to attend a Job Prep Day on Monday, November 17, 2025, to get ready for the Career Connection event. Resume assistance will be available at 10:00 AM, followed by job search and application support at 1:00 PM. These workshops help participants strengthen their resumes and apply to jobs ahead of time so they can walk into the career event prepared and confident. Pre-registration is encouraged on WorkSourceWA.com.

The Monthly Career Connection event will take place on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at WorkSource Columbia Basin. In lieu of business attendance, WorkSource staff will be available to assist job seekers with resume support, job search guidance, and other employment services.

Let’s reignite hiring momentum; one month, one connection at a time. Join us, connect, and make it count.

Questions about the event? Contact us at 509.734.5900 Option 7 or at WSColumbiaBasin@esd.wa.gov

WorkSource and the Benton-Franklin Workforce Development Council are an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Washington Relay 711.

WorkSource Columbia Basin programs receive support and funding from US Department of Labor grants. Read more about USDOL grant funding at Stevens Amendment | Benton-Franklin WDC (bentonfranklinwdc.com)

FOREST GROVE, Ore. – The Oregon National Guard formally welcomed home Soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment during a demobilization ceremony on Nov. 16, 2025, held at Neil Armstrong Middle School in Forest Grove, Oregon.

The 2-218th mobilized approximately 230 members in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, bearing the designation Task Force Defender, while conducting Short Range Air Defense operations at eight separate geographically dispersed sites in the Middle East countries of Jordan, Iraq, and Syria during their year-long deployment.

“On behalf of Governor Kotek and the entire Oregon National Guard, it is my honor and privilege to officially say, ‘Welcome Home,’” said Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon National Guard. “During Task Force Defender, you took on one of the most demanding and technically complex missions in modern warfare. Every single day, American forces, coalition partners, and local populations relied on you for their protection.”

The unit's mission was to provide capabilities for countering rockets, artillery, and mortars, as well as combating unmanned aerial systems using both kinetic and non-kinetic methods, all while offering warnings of incoming threats.

Before deploying overseas, the Soldiers underwent specialized training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. This training aimed to enhance their skills in operating the equipment and systems essential for their role as primary air defenders, which American and Coalition partners rely on for force protection.

The 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment has a long history of answering the State and Nation’s call for service. In the post 9/11 era, they have deployed to the Middle East to support Operations Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, Spartan Shield, and now Task Force Defender.

"Hey team Oregon, it's still us and we will always have your back, whether it's aboard or at home, we're still your home team," said Lt. Col. Stephan Bomar, Director of Public Affairs, Oregon Military Department.

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Released Images:

251116-Z-CH590-1039 and 251116-Z-CH590-1198: Oregon Army National Guard soldiers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment render a hand salute during their formal demobilization ceremony held in their honor on Nov. 16, 2025, at Neil Armstrong Middle School in Forest Grove, Oregon. Approximately 230 members of the unit deployed to support Operation Inherent Resolve at eight separate geographically dispersed sites in Jordan, Iraq, and Syria during their year-long mobilization. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

251116-Z-CH590-1062 and 251116-Z-CH590-1092: Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon National Guard, addresses the Soldiers of the 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment, along with their families, during their formal demobilization ceremony held on Nov. 16, 2025, at Neil Armstrong Middle School in Forest Grove, Oregon. Approximately 230 members of the unit deployed to support Operation Inherent Resolve at eight separate geographically dispersed sites in Jordan, Iraq, and Syria during their year-long mobilization. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

251116-Z-CH590-1118: Oregon Army National Guard Col. Paul Dyer, the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team Commander, delivers remarks during the Soldiers of the 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment, along with their families, during their formal demobilization ceremony held on Nov. 16, 2025, at Neil Armstrong Middle School in Forest Grove, Oregon. Approximately 230 members of the unit deployed to support Operation Inherent Resolve at eight separate geographically dispersed sites in Jordan, Iraq, and Syria during their year-long mobilization. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

251116-Z-CH590-1163: Oregon National Guard Col. Paul Dyer, the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team Commander (left), and Brig. Gen. Alan R. Gronewold, Adjutant General, Oregon National Guard (right), greets and congratulates members of the 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment following their formal demobilization ceremony on Nov. 16, 2025, held at Neil Armstrong Middle School in Forest Grove. Approximately 230 members of the unit deployed to support Operation Inherent Resolve at eight separate geographically dispersed sites in Jordan, Iraq, and Syria during their year-long mobilization. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

251116-Z-CH590-1220: Oregon Army National Guard Lt. Col. Manuel Robledo, commander of the 2nd Battalion, 218th Field Artillery Regiment (left), with assistance, uncases the unit colors during the demobilization ceremony held for the unit on Nov. 16, 2025, at Neil Armstrong Middle School in Forest Grove.  Approximately 230 members of the unit deployed to support Operation Inherent Resolve at eight separate geographically dispersed sites in Jordan, Iraq, and Syria during their year-long mobilization. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

DOC reiterates commitment to community safety and transparency as it reevaluates judgments and alerts victims to potential changes in release dates. 

Today the Oregon Supreme Court issued further clarification concerning credit for time served if specified by the judicial system that the Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) must consider during sentence calculation that began following the July 10, 2025, Torres-Lopez v. Fahrion decision.

Oregon Department of Corrections Director Michael Reese commented, “We are aware of the continued impact this Supreme Court decision has on victims, survivors of crime, and their families. The Department of Corrections is firmly committed to public safety, accountability, and transparency as we implement this mandate from the Oregon Supreme Court.”

To protect communities, DOC’s role in sentence calculation is to take the judgments from the courts and ensure adults in custody (AICs) serve their full sentences.

Today’s clarification will require another round of reviews of court judgments by DOC. It is unclear how many sentences will be affected at this time. To ensure clarity and support for everyone impacted, DOC has established multiple ways for affected parties to ask questions about changes to sentences.

Crime victims who want to receive updates about an offender's recalculated release date should subscribe to VISOR (Victim Information System in Oregon) if they haven’t already. Visit https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fvisor.oregon.gov%2F%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_name=%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0101019a85b753a5-79ae8793-623c-41c1-b11b-016bebc0d443-000000/v1PNCVLB6AAUwldKtv5GMFRkUgDPNeOrFdhtcfNF4Wc=431. Click or tap if you trust this link.">https://visor.oregon.gov/ to receive alerts about changes to an offender's current location, custody status, and release date. This system is the only way DOC can send updates to victims.

A website with examples of the sentences is available at: https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fengage.doc.oregon.gov%2Fsentence-recalculation%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_name=%26utm_source=govdelivery/1/0101019a85b753a5-79ae8793-623c-41c1-b11b-016bebc0d443-000000/q4wNQN2Z6lIKXiUrBskzKtFGztDi-2lkuz3fpUZQ5kA=431. Click or tap if you trust this link.">DOC Sentence Recalculation

As DOC assesses the impacts of today’s clarification, the agency remains committed to communicating decisions and impacts with victims and other public safety stakeholders. Additionally, DOC has recommended District Attorneys and Defense Attorneys review judgments with the court if they believe a change is in order.

Since the implications of the Torrez-Lopez v. Fahrion decision became clear, DOC has worked diligently to implement the sentence recalculation order and alert affected parties.

• The sentences of over 11,000 AICs have been reviewed.
• Crime victims who are registered with the Victim Information Services in Oregon (VISOR) alert system have been notified if changes have been made to sentences.
• DOC has been responsive to information requests from District Attorneys and State Legislators seeking to understand more about the Torres-Lopez v. Fahrion decision and its impacts to both victims and AICs.
• DOC has shared the full list of AICs who have had their sentences recalculated with District Attorneys.

For updated information subscribe to https://links-2.govdelivery.com/CL0/https:%2F%2Fengage.doc.oregon.gov%2Fsentence-recalculation%3Futm_medium=email%26utm_name=%26utm_source=govdelivery/2/0101019a85b753a5-79ae8793-623c-41c1-b11b-016bebc0d443-000000/uH6f23SRZa9UZIZy8yRUaDKvMcofIvJhY58wL1dE7tY=431. Click or tap if you trust this link.">DOC Sentence Recalculation.

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Supporting documents are available via the following link:  https://meetings.boardbook.org/Public/Organization/997

Board of Directors Meeting Schedule & Information:  https://www.wwps.org/district/information/school-board/board-meeting-schedule

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Guatemalan national unlawfully residing in the United States made his initial appearance today after being charged with assaulting federal officers.

Alvaro Carrillo, 32, has been charged by criminal complaint with Assaulting a Federal Officer.

According to court documents, on November 11, 2025, federal border patrol agents assisting Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers initiated a traffic stop on a silver Saturn sedan. Law enforcement officers approached the vehicle, identified themselves to Carrillo, and attempted to remove him from the vehicle when he did not comply with their commands. Carillo put the car in drive and fled the scene. Carrillo intentionally struck the border patrol agents’ vehicle during the pursuit. After more than ten minutes, Carrillo lost control of his vehicle and collided with a concrete curb. Carrillo exited the vehicle and assumed a fighting position. Carrillo attempted to escape and ran approximately thirty yards before an officer was able to take Carrillo into custody. Carrillo resisted the officers during the arrest.

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

Homeland Security Investigations is investigating the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon is prosecuting the case.

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

# # #

2025 Board on Public Safety Standards & Training

 and Policy Committee

Open Vacancy – Recruitments

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

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

• One member who is a representative of the collective bargaining unit that represents the largest number of individual workers in the DOC
• One member of the Oregon State Fire Fighters Council recommended to the Governor by the executive body of the council
• One member who is a representative of nonmanagement law enforcement
• One member recommended by and representing the private security industry
• Public Member

Policy Committees: All Policy Committee applications must be submitted by December 18, 2025.

Corrections Policy Committee:

• One person representing the public who has never been employed or utilized as a corrections officer

Police Policy Committee:

• One person recommended by and representing the Oregon State Sheriff's Association
• One member who is a representative of nonmanagement law enforcement

Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee:

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

Private Investigator Subcommittee:

• Currently licensed private investigator

Telecommunications Policy Committee:

• One person representing Emergency Medical Services & Trauma 

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

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

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

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

Thank you,

DPSST Board & Committees Staff

EUGENE, Ore.— Two Mexican nationals illegally in the United States have been charged with trafficking 72 pounds of methamphetamine.

Alejandra Diaz-Alcantar, 45, and Juan Alberto Alvarado-Gonzalez, 41, have been charged by criminal complaint with conspiracy to distribute and possession with the intent to distribute over 500 grams of a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine.

According to court documents, an Oregon State Police K9 trooper stopped the white Chevrolet pickup on Interstate 5 in Lane County as part of an ongoing investigation. A search of the vehicle pursuant to a warrant revealed two duffel bags under the rear passenger seat. They contained 56 plastic bags and bindles of suspected methamphetamine, collectively weighing approximately 72 pounds.

The Drug Enforcement Administration is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Huynh is prosecuting the case.

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

# # #

November 14, 2025

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

Families urged to stop ByHeart formula use to reduce infant botulism risk as national outbreak investigation continues 

SALEM, Oregon— The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is now seeking four new committee members to serve on the Oregon Outdoor Recreation Committee for four-year volunteer terms starting Jan. 1, 2026.

The nine-member committee evaluates grant proposals for public outdoor recreation projects seeking funding assistance from the Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant Program, a grant program funded by the National Park Service and administered by OPRD.

Open positions include:

• Member representing people with disabilities
• Member representing the public-at-large
• Member representing a historically underrepresented community, or a member representing Tribal Government
• Member representing Cities over 15,000 population (Must be employed by a city or professionally associated with a city and have a recommendation from the Oregon Recreation and Park Association or the League of Oregon Cities.)

Those interested in serving must submit a committee interest form by November 24, 2025 at https://oregonstateparks.jotformgov.com/232894854468171

OPRD will review the interest forms and follow up with potential members for interviews. Committee appointments are subject to confirmation by the OPRD Director.

Committee members serve four-year terms and may be eligible to serve a second term.

The committee generally meets once a year, virtually or at locations throughout the state. Time commitment varies and includes reviewing and evaluating an average of 15 to 20 grant applications each annual funding cycle.

Ideal candidates can live anywhere in Oregon with experience in at least one of the following areas: outdoor recreation planning or design, recreation related volunteerism, or an outdoor recreation enthusiast who is uniquely qualified to evaluate project proposals through other experience and involvement.

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

The Land and Water Conservation Fund Program is a competitive grant program funded by the National Park Service and administered by the Oregon Parks and

Recreation Department. Grants are awarded to local governments, federally recognized tribal governments and eligible state agencies for land acquisition, development and rehabilitation projects for public outdoor recreation areas and facilities.

For more information about the advisory committee or application process, contact Nohemi Enciso, LWCF Program Coordinator, at nohemi.enciso@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-480-9092.