LEBANON, Ore. - The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) issued this statement following Samaritan Health Services’ announcement that it will continue providing labor and delivery and emergency surgical services at all five of its hospitals. The decision to preserve these critical healthcare services comes after a months-long campaign by ONA nurses, doctors, patients, community members and elected leaders to save family birth centers and surgical services at risk of closing at Samaritan Lebanon Community Hospital and Samaritan North Lincoln Hospital. 

“From the beginning, nurses and families made it clear these birthplaces are irreplaceable and must be saved. Generations of families got their start here, and generations fought together to make sure future families have access to safe, local healthcare. 

This is a victory for our entire community—especially our patients. We are deeply grateful to everyone who wrote letters, signed petitions, attended rallies and marched with us. Your voices made the difference. 

Healthcare providers, patients, and community leaders stood united and ultimately Samaritan listened. 

Keeping our birth centers and emergency surgery services open is lifesaving for moms, babies and local families. We celebrate today’s announcement and look forward to continuing to care and advocate for our patients and communities.” 

ONA members in the Samaritan Health Services system led the community effort to save the family birth centers and emergency surgery services. Nurses, doctors, patients, firefighters, and local and national elected officials including U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden and U.S. Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04) were among those who publicly called on Samaritan Health Services to maintain rural and coastal Oregonians’ full access to labor and delivery services.  

 
Along with leading local rallies and protests, supporters sent more than 21,000 emails to Samaritan executives and board members asking them to save local birth centers and the emergency surgery team.

Closing birth centers has become a dangerous trend in the U.S. More than 500 hospitals in the U.S. have closed their labor and delivery departments since 2010; contributing to rising maternal mortality rates. Since 2019, Oregon health systems closed birth centers at hospitals in Redmond, Baker City, Gresham and most recently at Providence Seaside Hospital. 

ONA nurses led a successful community effort to save the family birth center at Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center in Gresham which was closed and swiftly reopened after public outcry and state intervention in 2023. 

In addition to delivering babies, healthcare providers at Samaritan's hospital birth centers offer specialized pre-and post-birth care including childbirth classes, lactation support, regular testing for moms and babies with significant health risks and care up to a month after delivery. 

Community members have counted on the birth services provided at Lebanon for more than 80 years and can now count on those services continuing into the future. 

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August 27, 2025

Media Contacts:

• Jonathan Modie, OHA, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov
• Tanya Phillips, Jackson County Health & Human Services, phillitf@jacksoncountyor.gov

Jackson County Vector Control District finds Aedes aegypti mosquitoes second year in a row

County’s August 2024 discovery of species was Oregon’s first

PORTLAND, Ore.—Aedes aegypti (Ae. Aegypti) mosquitoes have been discovered again in Jackson County, a year after Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and the county announced the species had been found for the first time in the state.

OHA, Jackson County Vector Control and Jackson County Public Health confirmed the identification of Ae. aegypti as part of routine mosquito surveillance.

Emilio DeBess, D.V.M., state public health veterinarian in OHA’s Public Health Division, said the repeat appearance of Ae. aegypti in Oregon is a concern because the species has been more common in much warmer climates of the United States, Southeast Asia, Africa and the Pacific Islands.

“These mosquitoes have been known carry and transmit diseases that are more typical to warmer climates, such as Zika virus, chikungunya, dengue and yellow fever,” DeBess said. These viruses spread to humans through the bite of an infected Ae. aegypti mosquito, he said.

The mosquitoes become infected when they bite and feed on someone who is infected with the virus. They primarily feed in the daytime and prefer to feed on humans.

However, DeBess emphasized that the risk of these infections to local residents is low. “Acquiring these diseases depends on the presence or arrival of someone who is currently infected with one of the diseases after infection outside the United States,” DeBess said. “As was the case when Ae. aegypti mosquitoes were first found in Oregon in 2024, there have been no reports of anyone having acquired viruses associated with Ae. aegypti from within the state.”

Routine mosquito surveillance monitors different mosquito populations in the county and tests for diseases such as West Nile virus and Western equine encephalitis that are common to the Culex mosquito genus. It also gives Jackson County Vector Control the ability to determine human risk and implement strategies to control these insects and prevent disease spread.

Adult Ae. aegypti mosquitoes are relatively small and have a black-and-white pattern due to the presence of white/silver scale patches against a black background on the legs and other parts of the body. Ae. aegypti mosquitoes most likely originated in Africa. Since then, the species has been transported globally throughout tropical and subtropical regions, and parts of the temperate world, through global trade and shipping activities.

Ae. aegypti cannot fly far—only about 500 feet. These mosquitoes prefer warm and wet weather, and to live in or near homes or in neighboring woods. Changes in climate are allowing Ae. aegypti mosquitoes to expand their range to the western United States. 

Prevention

Invasive Ae. aegypti mosquitoes need only a quarter inch of water to complete their life cycle. The key to preventing these mosquitoes from becoming an established vector in Jackson County will be to eliminate standing water, even small amounts, and moisture from yards and gardens. Common mosquito breeding sources include flowerpot saucers, tires, kiddie pools, rooted plants in water, containers/buckets, and pet water bowls.

“Many prevention methods that work for other types of mosquitoes apply to Aedes aegypti,” said Geoff Taylor, manager of Jackson County Vector Control.

Those methods include:

• Dumping or draining any standing water around the home.
• Removing containers or objects that can hold water from your yard, such as water saucers from under plants, old tires, tarps, buckets, containers, toys, and other equipment.
• Repairing leaky outdoor faucets.
• Keeping rain gutters cleared.
• Covering, screening, or removing rain barrels, trashcans, bins, buckets, or tubs.
• Wearing mosquito repellent outside. Repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, some lemon eucalyptus, and para-menthane-diol products are most effective at preventing mosquito bites.
• Sleeping under a mosquito net when outside or in a room without screens.

DeBess explained that identification of Ae. aegypti demonstrates why mosquito trapping by local vector control agencies is so important. It allows for tracking and monitoring of different types of mosquitoes, and it gives state and local agencies advanced warning on the potential spread of a species so they can take steps to reduce health risks in the population.

For more information:

• Aedes aegypti, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/mosquitoes/about/life-cycle-of-aedes-mosquitoes.html
• Potential range of Aedes mosquitoes, CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/mosquitoes/php/toolkit/potential-range-of-aedes.html
• Aedes aegypti in California: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/pages/Aedes-aegypti-and-Aedes-albopictus-mosquitoes.aspx
• Jackson County Vector Control District: https://jcvcd.org/
• JCVCD’s Aedes aegypti page: https://jcvcd.org/mosquito/aedes-aegypti/

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August 27, 2025

Media contact: Erica Heartquist, 503-871-8843, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory issued for Lake Simtustus

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory today for Lake Simtustus due to the presence of a cyanobacteria bloom. Results of testing will either confirm the advisory or allow us to lift. The lake is in Jefferson County.

People should avoid swimming and high-speed water activities, such as water skiing or power boating, in areas of the reservoir where blooms are present, as the major route of exposure is ingestion of water. Toxins are not absorbed through the skin. However, those with skin sensitivities may get a puffy red rash.

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

Drinking water

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

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

Children and pets

Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure because of their size and level of activity. Dogs can get extremely ill and even die within minutes to hours of exposure to cyanotoxins by drinking the water, licking their fur, or eating the toxins from floating mats or dried crust along the shore. This is regardless of a recreational use health advisory in place.

Dogs can become ill and die from water intoxication after drinking excessive amounts of water while swimming or fetching objects for long periods of time. Intoxication is a potentially fatal disturbance in brain function resulting from an imbalance of electrolytes in the body. Water intoxication and heat stroke can cause similar symptoms as exposure to cyanotoxins.

Symptoms

Exposure to cyanotoxins can be serious and cause a range of symptoms. Symptoms 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.

Fishing

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

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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The City of Richland is moving forward with construction on long-awaited improvements to the intersection of George Washington Way and Aaron Drive/Columbia Point Drive, one of the busiest and most congested intersections in the Tri-Cities. Effective Tuesday, September 2, 2025, contractor Ellison Earthworks will begin construction efforts. The first phase will begin on the west side of George Washington Way with the closure of the parking lane to Benham Street.

For years, this critical corridor has experienced significant congestion, long vehicle queues, and a high number of collisions. In addition, the size and traffic volume of the intersection create barriers for pedestrians and bicyclists. The new improvement project is designed to reduce congestion, improve safety, and enhance access for all users, including drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.

“This intersection is a vital gateway to Richland and our region,” said City Manager, Jon Amundson. “These improvements represent years of planning and collaboration to ensure safer, more efficient travel for our community. In addition, these improvements will play a key role to the success of our upcoming Downtown Loop project.”

The effort to reimagine and improve this intersection began in 2019, following the City’s North-South Travel Capacity Study. That same year, the Benton Franklin Council of Governments (BFCOG), the region’s transportation planning organization, awarded federal grant funds to help launch the project.

The final design incorporates input from regional partners, including the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), Ben Franklin Transit, the BFCOG, as well as public feedback gathered during a Virtual Open House.

Updates to the intersection will include:

• An addition of a southbound lane along George Washington Way
• An additional left turn from westbound Columbia Point Drive to southbound SR240
• New traffic and pedestrian signals
• Removal of crosswalk islands
• New ADA-accessible sidewalk ramps
• Widening of the sidewalk between Benham Street and Aaron Drive
• Sidewalk connection to the Columbia Point neighborhood along the north side of Columbia Point Drive

During construction, the intersection will remain open to traffic, however lane closures will be required to complete the road work.  On street parking will be limited between Comstock Street and Benham Street during construction. Parking will be permanently removed south of Benham Street.

Construction is expected to occur in phases to minimize impacts on local businesses, commuters, and nearby neighborhoods. Traffic detours and lane adjustments will be communicated in advance through the City’s website, social media channels, and project updates.

The project is anticipated to be completed in late November 2025.

For more information and ongoing updates about the South George Washington Way Street Improvements, visit www.ci.richland.wa.us/SouthGWay.

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 August economic outlook assessed past projections, legislatively approved budget and the impact of federal legislation H.R.1 in Oregon. The state legislature concluded the 2025 session with $472.8 million in available funds, intended to buffer against economic risks. However, the passage of H.R.1 is now estimated to reduce state revenues by $888.2 million over the course of the 2025-27 biennium.  

Revenue Forecast

The August revenue forecast projects the 2025-27 General Fund ending balance will be down $621.1 million due to economic changes, the passage of H.R.1 and adjustments to kicker credit. As a result, the projected end balance for the biennium has declined by $845.5 million, a shift from previously projected $472.8 million surplus to a negative balance of $372.7 million.

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

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PARTIES AGREE, STATE REGULATORS APPROVE A LOWER RATE INCREASE FOR AVISTA CUSTOMERS

Average residential customer bill to increase about $1.36 September 1

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) recently approved the all-party stipulation between PUC staff, consumer groups, and Avista agreeing to a general rate increase at a lower level than originally requested.

The amount general rates will increase on September 1, 2025, differs based on customer type and energy usage. Stipulating parties agreed to an annual revenue increase of $4.2 million, or an overall average increase of 3.5 percent across all customer types combined, including residential, commercial, and industrial customers. This is a 46 percent decrease from Avista’s original request to increase annual revenue by $7.8 million. Residential customers using an average of 48 therms per month will experience a bill increase of approximately $1.36 or 2 percent on monthly bills.

Drivers for the increase include capital investments, such as expanding natural gas distribution facilities to meet customer needs and ensure reliability of service, replacement of outdated infrastructure, and maintenance of existing infrastructure and technology.   

“We appreciate the hard work of PUC staff and stakeholders as well as Avista’s cost-discipline to reach a compromise that significantly reduced the general rate case revenue requirement by over 45 percent from the original request,” said Letha Tawney, Commission Chair. “The approved increase balances the utility’s need to recover the cost of providing safe service with the Commission’s obligation to protect customers—particularly the most vulnerable customers--from unnecessary rate impacts. Thanks to House Bill 3179, customers can be assured their bills moving forward will not increase during the winter heating season, giving families more predictability when they need it most.”

Resources for Customers

To increase energy efficiency and save more on future bills, review Energy Trust of Oregon’s current incentives and opportunities, including income-qualified offers and learn more about  low-cost and no-cost tips to reduce energy consumption. For information about bill payment assistance options, contact Avista at 800-227-9187 or view information online. Customers may also contact their local Community Action agency to request information on what assistance programs they may be eligible for and how to enroll.

Avista serves approximately 106,500 natural gas customers in southwest and northeast Oregon.

# # #

Docket No.: UG 519

August 27, 2025

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

Recreational use advisory issued for Ochoco Lake

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory today for Ochoco Lake due to elevated microcystin levels. The lake is in Crook County.

People should avoid swimming and high-speed water activities, such as water skiing or power boating, in areas of the reservoir where blooms are present, as the major route of exposure is ingestion of water. Toxins are not absorbed through the skin. However, those with skin sensitivities may get a puffy red rash.

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

Drinking water

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

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

Children and pets

Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure because of their size and level of activity. Dogs can get extremely ill and even die within minutes to hours of exposure to cyanotoxins by drinking the water, licking their fur, or eating the toxins from floating mats or dried crust along the shore. This is regardless of a recreational use health advisory in place.

Dogs can become ill and die from water intoxication after drinking excessive amounts of water while swimming or fetching objects for long periods of time. Intoxication is a potentially fatal disturbance in brain function resulting from an imbalance of electrolytes in the body. Water intoxication and heat stroke can cause similar symptoms as exposure to cyanotoxins.

Symptoms

Exposure to cyanotoxins can be serious and cause a range of symptoms. Symptoms 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.

Fishing

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

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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August 26, 2025

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

Recreational use advisory lifted for Odell Lake

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Odell Lake in Klamath County.

OHA issued the advisory Aug. 14

Water monitoring has confirmed that the level of cyanotoxins in Odell Lake are below recreational guideline values for people. However, levels detected are still above OHA’s safety values for dogs, and owners should keep their pets away from the lake.

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.— Antonio Irving Benjamin, age 53 and a resident of Salem, Oregon, was sentenced to 144 months in prison and 5 years of supervised release after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute over 1,000 kilograms of marijuana and conspiracy to launder the proceeds.  He also agreed to forfeit assets worth more than $2 million dollars.
 

According to court documents, Benjamin and a previously convicted co-conspirator named Jered Hayward operated a large-scale illegal THC and psilocybin production and distribution facility headquartered in Salem, Oregon.  Benjamin supervised the operations and managed a number of employees who obtained cereal and candy products and infused or sprayed potent THC oils on them.  They then inserted the edibles into packages which mimicked legitimate consumer food products and sold them throughout the United States and internationally. While there was no evidence Benjamin deliberately targeted minors, the manner in which his organization packaged the edibles posed a risk to children, who are often unable to comprehend the fine print warnings that the packages contained THC products.
 

Benjamin’s organization utilized encrypted communications such as Telegram to market, sell and process orders, and straw businesses to mask money laundering transactions.  Benjamin had no permits or licenses to produce or sell these products; the entire operation was illegal.
 

Benjamin has an extensive criminal record, including two prior federal convictions for cocaine and fentanyl trafficking.  Because of these convictions, he is a career criminal under federal law.
 

Benjamin agreed to forfeit substantial assets which he admitted were related to the drug and money laundering enterprise.  As part of his guilty plea Benjamin and Hayward agreed to forfeit:

• The Salem production facility;
• More than $1 million in cash;
• $640,000 worth of cryptocurrency and bank account funds;
• More than $400,000 worth of gold and silver;
• Jewelry and a Rolex watch; and
• Twelve vehicles, two UTV’s, boats and
• A property located at 879 Railway Avenue NE, Silverton, Oregon.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, Portland Police Bureau, United States Postal Inspection, Oregon State Police, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Salem Police Department and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Kemp Strickland and Christopher Cardani, Assistant United States Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

PORTLAND, Ore.—Tracy Molina, 52, of Portland, Oregon, has been charged by information with failing to obey a lawful order.

According to court documents and information shared in court, on August 21, 2025, Molina entered the grounds of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) building in Portland. Molina failed to comply with the lawful direction of federal officers and was arrested.

Molina made her first appearance in federal court on August 22 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. She was ordered released pending further court proceedings.

Failure to obey a lawful order is a Class C misdemeanor and is punishable by up to 30 days in prison.

The case is being investigated by the Federal Protective Service and is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

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

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In observance of Labor Day on Monday, September 1, 2025, all City of Richland facilities will be closed. Normal business operations will resume on Tuesday, September 2, 2025.

The closures include:

• City Hall / Utility Customer Service Office
• Richland Public Library
• Richland Community Center
• Horn Rapids Landfill

Essential services, such as police, fire, and emergency response, will continue without interruption.  Garbage waste pick up will remain on schedule.

Labor Day is a time to recognize the contributions of American workers and to celebrate the strength, prosperity, and well-being they bring to our communities. The City of Richland wishes all residents a safe and enjoyable holiday.

For more information about City services and schedules, please visit www.ci.richland.wa.us.

Salem, Ore. — As Labor Day Weekend approaches, the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) is encouraging families, horseback riders, hikers, and nature lovers of all types to consider exploring Oregon’s less-traveled state forest campgrounds, including Northrup Creek Horse Camp in the Clatsop State Forest.

Unlike high-traffic destinations across state forests or state parks that book up months in advance, many of ODF’s equestrian campgrounds still offer space for late-summer adventurers, even for those without horses. These quieter sites provide a chance to unplug, unwind, and connect with the outdoors—all while supporting sustainable recreation and forest education.

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

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

Tucked into the lush, shaded groves of the Clatsop State Forest, Northrup Creek Horse Camp is a peaceful retreat for equestrians and outdoor lovers alike. Designed with horse users in mind, it features eight campsites with corrals and space for trailers, along with three drive-up tent sites. Of the eight sites with corrals, three are available for non-equestrian campers looking for a quieter forest experience.

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

Reservations are required—and as of now, sites are still available for Labor Day weekend. For full details and to reserve your spot, visit ReserveAmerica – Northrup Creek Horse Camp.

Other Less Crowded Options?

In addition to Northrup Creek, ODF manages several under-the-radar campgrounds that typically enjoy lower visitation, even during busy summer weekends. These campgrounds are open to equestrian and non-equestrian visitors alike:

• Santiam Horse Camp (Santiam State Forest): Welcomes all non-motorized recreationalists with trail access right from camp in the beautiful Santiam Canyon.
• Stagecoach Horse Camp (Tillamook State Forest): Perfect for campers with or without horses, with direct access to Tillamook’s eastern trail system.
• Reehers Camp Horse Camp (Tillamook State Forest): A historic Civilian Conservation Corps site offering trails, rustic amenities, and quiet camping a mere few miles from the town of Timber.

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

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

Yakima, Washington – United States Attorney S. Peter Serrano announced that Jason Alexander Logie, age 36, of Wapato, Washington, was convicted of Second Degree Murder following a jury trial in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Washington. Trial commenced on August 18, 2025 before Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian and the jury returned its verdict on August 20, 2025.  A sentencing hearing has been scheduled for November 18, 2025. 

According to court documents and information presented at trial, while driving under the influence of alcohol, Logie crossed the center line on North Track Road within the Yakama Nation Indian Reservation on the afternoon of September 9, 2023, striking an on-coming vehicle in its own lane of travel. The driver of the vehicle died as a result of the collision.

United States Attorney Pete Serrano stated, “One of my top priorities as U.S. Attorney will be to strengthen our relationship with state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. Partnering with these agencies strengthens our prosecution of cases like this, where a repeat offender will be held accountable for his careless actions that costs an innocent victim their life. I’d like to offer my thanks to our partner agencies on this case.”

This case was investigated and presented for prosecution by the Yakama Nation Police Department and the investigation was assisted by the Yakima County Sheriff’s Department and the Washington State Patrol. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Michael D. Murphy and Courtney R. Pratten.

 1:24-cr-02059-SAB  

FIRE POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

Salem, Ore. –  Oregonians with a dream of “hitting the big one” have a chance to win a Powerball jackpot worth an estimated $815 million in Wednesday’s drawing. It’s the first time the Powerball has climbed this high since the $1.3 billion jackpot was won in Portland on April 6, 2024.  

The Powerball jackpot has been hit 11 times since the $1.3 billion dollar win in Oregon, with winning jackpots all under $700 million. Since the current jackpot run up began on June 1, Oregon has seen 546,633 winners and more than $7.6 million in total Powerball game winnings. Four Powerball jackpots have been won this year, including the $328.5 million prize won by a Beaverton man on January 18.

"With Oregon's two recent Powerball jackpot wins, the excitement for our players extends to their community and our retailers,” said Heidi Quiring, Oregon Lottery’s manager of player services. “A win of this size can have a significant ripple effect." 

A $50,000 winning Powerball ticket was purchased in Salem for the August 25 drawing, but the game’s top prize went unclaimed.

Oregon Lottery retailers who sell lottery tickets also earn commissions from the boost in ticket sales and bonus payments for lower tier wins. For instance, a retail location that sells a $1 million ticket would earn a $10,000 bonus.

Powerball is a multi-state jackpot operated by 44 states, plus the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.

The Oregon Lottery recommends that you always sign the back of your ticket to ensure you can claim your prize. In the event of winning a jackpot, players should consult with a trusted financial planner or similar professional to develop a plan for their winnings. Players have one year from the date of the drawing to claim their prize.

Celebrating 40 years of selling games since April 25, 1985, Oregon Lottery has earned more than $16.5 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org.

SALEM, Oregon— Tours of the historic building will be offered eight times a day Thursday through Monday starting this week and running through October when the building closes for the season.

Previously, the tours were offered three days a week due to low staffing levels this year. Now both the historic building and the Interpretive Center will be open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Monday. Access to the Kam Wah Chung building is only available during guided tours.

The Kam Wah Chung building is a National Historic Landmark that preserves the home and businesses of two Chinese immigrants, Ing "Doc" Hay and Lung On. For more than 60 years the building was a social, medical and religious center for Oregon's Chinese community.

Tours of the historic building will run at the top of every hour, the last one beginning at 4 p.m. The free, 45-minute historic building tour begins at the Interpretive Center at 125 NW Canton Street in John Day. Space is limited to 8 people per tour.  

For more information or questions about booking tours and operating hours, please call the park office at 541-575-2800.

If you don’t have the opportunity to visit this heritage site, you can learn more about the site and Chinese American history in Oregon through these online resources:

• Oregon Chinese Diaspora Project
• National Historic Landmark Nomination: Kam Wah Chung Company Building
• Oregon Encyclopedia: Chinese Americans in Oregon and Kam Wah Chung and Co.
• Oregon Historical Society: Beyond Chinatown: Uncovering Oregon’s Rural Chinese History and Centering Chinese History in Oregon and Herbs & Roots: A History of Chinese Doctors in the American Medical Marketplace

RICHLAND, Wash. – Washington State University Tri-Cities’ Cougar Tracks program will host a new professional development workshop to help regional professionals use artificial intelligence strategically and ethically in the workplace.

The Generative AI Essentials: Workplace Applications & Ethical Use workshop is scheduled for 9 a.m. to noon on Thursday, Sept. 18, in the Elson S. Floyd Building, Room 145, on the WSU Tri-Cities campus.

The three-hour, in-person session will provide hands-on training in selecting AI tools, applying prompt engineering, addressing ethical considerations and creating organizational AI codes of conduct. Participants will also work directly with tools such as Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT.

“Tri-Cities is on the cusp of transformative growth,” said Michelle Hrycauk Nassif, director of Cougar Tracks. “As industries adopt AI, our workforce must be ready to use these tools and use them wisely. By building AI fluency, we strengthen the region’s economic competitiveness.”

The workshop will be led by Neelam Chahlia, Ph.D., senior technical project manager at T-Mobile. Chahlia has extensive experience in software development, agile methodologies and large-scale technology implementation, including projects handling $5 billion to $6 billion in monthly transactions and global cybersecurity initiatives. A recipient of India’s National Young Scientist Award, she is also a frequent STEM keynote speaker and advocate for women in technology.

“AI is no longer a future skill, it’s a now skill,” Chahlia said. “Professionals who integrate AI strategically and ethically will be the ones driving innovation in the coming decade.”

The workshop is open to professionals in business, education, human resources, compliance, marketing, project management and other sectors. Registration is $149, with limited seats available.

Workshop details:

• Date: Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025
• Time: 9 a.m. to noon
• Location: WSU Tri-Cities, Elson S. Floyd Building, Room 145, 2710 Crimson Way, Richland, WA 99354
• Registration: Register here

About Cougar Tracks
Cougar Tracks is the continuing education and workforce training division of WSU Tri-Cities. The program develops responsive, industry-informed training that strengthens the regional workforce and supports economic growth.

PORTLAND, Ore.— Three Honduran defendants unlawfully residing in Oregon made their first appearances in federal court on Monday after being arrested and charged for trafficking fentanyl in downtown Portland last Thursday on National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day.

Antoni Yahir Pavon-Rosales, 18, has been charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

Cristian Ravolales, 27, has been charged by criminal complaint with distribution and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

Kevin Concepcion Ramos-Espinoza, 34, has been charged by criminal complaint with distribution and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

According to court documents, on August 21, 2025, investigators with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Portland Police Bureau (PPB) Central Neighborhood Response Team (NRT) and Bike Squad, PPB Narcotics and Organized Crime Unit (NOC), the Clackamas County Interagency Task Force (CCITF), and the United States Attorney’s Office (USAO) conducted a fentanyl enforcement mission in downtown Portland.  Investigators observed defendant Pavon-Rosales attempting to sell fentanyl and arrested him, seizing 22.5 grams of fentanyl and $795.  The same evening, investigators observed defendant Ravolales engage in drug trafficking and arrested him, seizing 45.9 grams of fentanyl and $579.  Investigators also observed Ramos-Espinoza engaged in multiple acts of drug trafficking and arrested him, seizing 14.7 grams of fentanyl and $2,461. Defendant Ramos-Espinoza has two pending delivery of controlled substance cases in Multnomah County Circuit Court.

All three defendants made their first appearances in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge.  All three defendants were ordered detained pending further court proceedings.  Arraignments have been scheduled for September 24, 2025.

These cases were investigated by the FBI, PPB Central NRT and Bike Squad, PPB NOC, and the CCITF.  They are being prosecuted by AUSA Scott Kerin, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

CCITF is supported by the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Program (HIDTA) and is composed of members from the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, Canby Police Department, Oregon State Police, Clackamas County Parole and Probation, and the FBI.

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

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

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

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Aug. 25, 2025

Contact:

Denise Johnson, 503-302-6344, oardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov" rel="noreferrer noopener" style="font-size: 12px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; user-select: text; -webkit-user-drag: none; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; font-family: "Segoe UI", "Segoe UI Web", Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; white-space-collapse: preserve; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">boardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Board of Forestry will meet in person from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 3 and Thursday, Sept. 4 at Peavy Hall, PFSC 315, at Oregon State University College of Forestry, 1500 S.W. Jefferson Ave., Corvallis, OR 97331.  The Thurs. Sept. 4 meeting will be an off-site field tour to observe tethered logging in practice and discuss next steps.Both meetings are open to the public.  

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Edward Lawrence Nelson, died the morning of August 25, 2025. Nelson was incarcerated at Snake River Correctional Institution (SRCI) in Ontario and passed away at an area hospital. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified, and the State Medical Examiner will determine cause of death.

Nelson entered DOC custody on December 17, 2013, from Coos County with no parole date. Nelson was 77 years old.

DOC takes all in-custody deaths seriously. The agency is responsible for the care and custody of approximately 12,000 individuals who are incarcerated in 12 institutions across the state. While crime information is public record, DOC elects to disclose only upon request out of respect for any family or victims.

SRCI is a multi-custody prison in Ontario that houses approximately 3,000 adults in custody. SRCI has multiple special housing units including disciplinary segregation, intensive management, infirmary (with hospice) with 24-hour nursing care, and an administrative segregation unit. SRCI participates in prison industries with Oregon Corrections Enterprises including a contact center, laundry, and sign shop. SRCI specializes in incentive housing, specialized housing, individuals with mental health/medical vulnerabilities, education and trades programs, cognitive and parenting programs, and institution work programs. SRCI opened in 1991 and is the largest correctional institution in the state.

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SALEM, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking two volunteers to serve on the ATV Advisory Committee and ATV Grant Subcommittee starting Jan. 1, 2026.

The openings are four-year terms and include one representative for Class II (4wd/sand rails) and one representative for Class III (dirt bikes).

The seventeen-member ATV Committee meets once or twice a year. Duties include reviewing accidents and fatalities resulting from ATV recreation; reviewing changes to statutory vehicle classifications as necessary for safety considerations; reviewing safety features of all classes of ATVs; and recommending appropriate safety requirements to protect child and adult ATV operators.

The ATV Grant Subcommittee is responsible for reviewing and recommending grant funding in support of ATV recreational activities throughout the state. The grants support operations and maintenance, law enforcement, emergency medical services, land acquisition, safety/education, planning and development.

The Grant Subcommittee holds up to four public meetings per year that may be conducted either in-person or remotely. Computer access and experience is mandatory.

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

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

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

To apply for one of the open positions, go to the ATV-AC webpage and click the “Committee Interest Form” link at the bottom of the section. Applications will be accepted until 5 p.m. September 12, 2025.

For more information, contact Jeff Trejo, OPRD ATV Safety Education Coordinator, at ejo@oprd.oregon.gov">jeff.trejo@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-586-9622.

Yakima, Washington – United States Attorney Pete Serrano announced that Kevin Lee Towner, age 61, of Selah, Washington, was sentenced to 60 months (5 years) in prison to be followed by 10 years of supervised release by United States District Judge Rebecca L. Pennell on August 21, 2025. Towner pled guilty to the charge of Possession of Child Pornography on April 10, 2025. 

According to court documents, after a search warrant was executed on October 6, 2020, at Towner’s residence he was found to have electronic storage media containing images of children engaging in sexually explicit conduct. He admitted to using peer-to-peer file sharing to obtain images of child pornography. Towner was found to possess over 3,000 images of child pornography.  In addition to 60 months of imprisonment and ten years of supervised release, Judge Pennell imposed $45,000 in restitution to victims depicted in the child pornography files Towner possessed. Judge Pennell also required Towner to pay $17,000 pursuant to the Amy, Vicky, and Andy Child Pornography Victim Assistance Act of 2018 (“AVAA”).  Special penalty assessments imposed pursuant to that Act go to a fund from which child pornography victims can draw a one-time payment depending on the amount of restitution they have already received. In addition, Judge Pennell imposed a special penalty assessment of $5,000 pursuant to the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act of 2015, which imposes an assessment on any non-indigent person or entity convicted of an offense involving: (1) peonage, slavery, and trafficking in persons; (2) sexual abuse; (3) sexual exploitation and other abuse of children; (4) transportation for illegal sexual activity; or (5) human smuggling in violation of the Immigration and Nationality Act. The money assessed shall be directed into a fund and used to support the Internet Crimes Against Children task forces as well as programs providing services to victims of human trafficking and child abuse.

“This sentence sends a powerful reminder to Mr. Towner and others like him: Crimes that exploit children cannot, and will not be tolerated,” stated U.S. Attorney Serrano. “Thanks to the dedicated work of the FBI and prosecutors from my office, we were able to hold Mr. Towner accountable and protect the most vulnerable among us.”

W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office stated, “Child sexual abuse material is extremely damaging to young people, especially because it is often repeatedly shared and can be nearly impossible to remove from the Internet. Mr. Towner was found to possess not just some but thousands of these graphic images, including of very young children, and he will now face the consequences of that conduct. The FBI is committed to protecting child victims by holding these kinds of predators accountable and showing them they cannot hide their illegal online activity.”

This case was brought as part of 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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael D. Murphy.

 1:24-cr-02059-SAB  

Seattle – Over the last three weeks, federal, state, and local law enforcement have been working to dismantle a cartel-connected drug trafficking ring distributing fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin throughout western Washington.

What: Press briefing on takedown of Sinaloa- affiliated drug trafficking ring

When: Monday, August 25, 2025, 11:00 AM PT

Broadcast media, please plan to arrive by about 10:30 AM PT to clear security and set up.

Where: Drug Enforcement Administration Seattle Field Division, 300 5^th Avenue, Suite 1300, Seattle, WA 98104

Who:

• David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division
• Teal Luthy Miller, Acting United States Attorney, Western District of Washington
• Colin W. Jackson, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Homeland Security Investigations

There will not be a call-in line. Reporters may livestream the event if desired.

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

Christopher Brayton, age 11, is a child who went missing from Redmond on Aug. 18. He was found Aug. 24.

Sometimes when a child is missing, they may be in significant danger and ODHS may need to locate them to assess and support their safety. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and assess their safety, media alerts will be issued in some circumstances when it is determined necessary. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

Report child abuse to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).  This toll-free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 

Contact: Colin Fogarty 

Director of Communications 

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

Oregon Community Foundation Invests $1 Million

in Bold Arts and Culture Projects

Creative Heights Projects Celebrate Creativity and Elevate Cultural Voices

PORTLAND, Ore. — An audio archive that celebrates people who stutter. An independent film with a TV/VCR as its central character. A video series about the Albina neighborhood’s historic Black music scene. These are just a few of the 14 thought-provoking arts and culture projects included in the latest round of Creative Heights grants from Oregon Community Foundation.

OCF announced today it will invest more than $1 million in projects that celebrate bold creativity, elevate cultural voices and explore community issues across Oregon. Grants ranging from $24,000 to $100,000 are designed to stretch the creative capacity of artists and culture bearers.

For example, Portland-based composer and interdisciplinary artist Luke Wyland, who is also a person who stutters, said his project “centers my commitment to the stuttering community by expanding the Library of Dysfluent Voices, an audio archive of people with speech differences, through in-person interviews collected in partnership with SPACE, a stuttering nonprofit. Contributors share reflections on life and their relationship to their speech, which are then transformed into immersive ‘voice portraits.’ These portraits will form the foundation for a multimedia installation and performance series that celebrates the richness and complexity of dysfluency.”

Artist and curator Steph Littlebird will use her grant to expand a Contemporary Indigenous Art Biennial exhibit with the Salem Art Association that showcases the artistic talents of Indigenous artists and fosters cross-cultural engagement.

“We are so thrilled to showcase the deep well of Indigenous talent in the Pacific Northwest,” said Littlebird. “We cannot wait for everyone to learn more about the Native creatives and innovators carrying culture forward through contemporary art.”

OCF’s Creative Heights initiative has invested roughly $1 million per year since 2014 — supporting 151 projects across visual art, performance, folk and traditional arts, film and media, literary arts, museum exhibitions, humanities, music, theater, dance, opera, history, cultural heritage, and multidisciplinary works.

“We want to support bold creative visions — not just to advance the careers of these artists, but also to enrich Oregon’s creative landscape. These projects give communities access to groundbreaking arts and cultural experiences,” said Jerry Tischleder, Senior Program Officer, Arts and Culture, Oregon Community Foundation. “Opportunities like these are rare. We have found that when given the resources they need to reach for the stars, Oregon's creatives deliver.”

Other grantees include:

enTaiko | $66,000
To support a multisensory taiko performance that creates an inclusive experience for deaf, blind, neurodivergent and physically disabled artists and audiences.

"Echoes of Inclusion reimagines Japanese taiko drumming as a shared language of rhythm and movement, where disabled, non-disabled, Deaf and Hard of Hearing, blind, and neurodivergent artists and audiences create together," said Kazuyo Ito, Artistic Director of enTaiko.

Jason Hill with Albina Music Trust | $100,000
To produce an episodic docuseries exploring the history and amplifying the legacy of Black music and culture in Portland's Albina neighborhood.

“The history of Portland’s Black music scene is pretty amazing and yet most know little about it. This series with the Albina Music Trust is an effort to honor these amazing artists and their legacies,” said filmmaker Jason Hill. “Plus, we have the opportunity to do this when many of them are still here, and we can capture their stories in their own words.”

Masami Kawai with Portland Art Museum | $100,000
For Valley of the Tall Grass, an independent feature film that follows the life of a TV/VCR and explores identity and cinema’s language through an Indigenous worldview.

“With my film Valley of the Tall Grass, I'm telling a story of Indigenous people who lost ties to their land and found themselves in Oregon, a place I call home,” said filmmaker Masami Kawai. “We don't always have our traditional ways intact and sometimes we've lost our language. But we carry connections to family and value ways to sustain life and forgotten objects, like the TV/VCR at the center of the film. The grant will help bring this story to life.”

Nez Perce Wallowa Homeland with Oregon East Symphony | $100,000
For Rhythms of a Homeland, an original performance to be staged outdoor on Nez Perce ancestral land, blending the symphonic works of Native composer Jerod Tate with Indigenous drumming, dance, and visual storytelling.

"When I sit in the Arbor on the Homeland grounds, I feel a powerful connection to the land and its history,” said Nancy Crenshaw, longtime board member for Nez Perce Wallowa Homeland. “When the drums beat, and the spirits come to life, I am overwhelmed. To see this project underway is like a dream, and I'm excited knowing that through the gift of music we will bring people and cultures together and offer hope for the future."

Find a full list of the new Creative Heights grantees here.

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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Unlock Your Entrepreneurial Potential!

Ever wondered what it takes to start your own business and become your own boss? WorkSource Columbia Basin invites you to a Small Business Info Session designed for future entrepreneurs on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at 815 N. Kellogg St., Suite D, Kennewick, WA 99336.

This session will be led by a seasoned entrepreneur who has successfully owned multiple businesses, this dynamic session will provide:

• Tools and resources to kickstart your business
• Real-world insights from someone who’s been there
• Networking opportunities with like-minded individuals

All job seekers are welcome, though the session will primarily focus on resources for veterans and military spouses. Don’t miss this chance to gain valuable knowledge and take the first step toward your entrepreneurial journey. We look forward to seeing you!

For questions, contact Jose Sandoval at Jose.Sandoval@esd.wa.gov or call (509) 734-5298.

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)

Bend Fire & Rescue responded to a residential structure fire at 12:52 PM on Saturday, August 23 at 66135 White Rock Loop.  No one was at home at the start of the fire and upon returning the Home Owner heard smoke alarms and saw smoke coming from various openings in the structure and proceeded to call 911.

On arrival Bend Fire & Rescue extinguished the fire containing it to a small closest on the second story of the structure.  The fire cause has been determined to be a failure in the closet fluorescent lighting, spreading hot debris to combustibles below the light fixture.  No injuries were reported at the scene.

Bend Fire & Rescue would like to remind everyone of the importance of working smoke alarms.  Smoke alarms should be place on every level of your home (including the basement), inside each bedroom, and in the hallway outside each bedroom.  Some newer style smoke alarms contain lithium-ion batteries and can be effective for up to 10 years.  Additional information can be found on Bend Fire & Rescue website under “Community Programs”. 

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has deployed Complex Incident Management Team 3 (CIMT 3) to manage the Flat Fire north of Sisters and near Lake Billy Chinook.   

The fire started yesterday (Aug. 21) and is now estimated at 9,000 acres. The fire has exceeded the span of control of the local Type 3 Team, so the larger IMT was activated and will take command of the fire tomorrow (Aug. 23).

“This extreme heat and dry fuels have made control efforts hard,” said Ron Graham, Deputy Chief of ODF’s Protection Division.  “On the positive side, given the lower number of current fires state-wide there are a lot of resources available to send to the fire.”

The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is overseeing evacuations in the affected area. Community members are urged to stay informed about evacuation levels and be prepared to act quickly. For the latest evacuation information go to the Jefferson County Sherrif’s Office evacuation zones page and the Deschutes County Sherrif’s Office Emergency Info page.

“This is tough for local community members,” said Graham.  “Earlier this summer they had to endure the Alder Springs Fires, now this one is adjacent to that burned area impacting many of the same folks.”

Earlier today Governor Tina Kotek determined that a threat to life, safety, and property exists due to the fire, and the threat exceeds the firefighting capabilities of local firefighting personnel and equipment, so she invoked the Conflagration Act for the Flat Fire.  That allows for more resources to be deployed to the fires to protect life and property.  See the news release here.

As firefighters continue to work to suppress fires around the state, ODF urges community members to help reduce the strain on firefighters by preventing new human-caused fires. Follow fire prevention guidelines and know the local fire restrictions currently in place: https://www.oregon.gov/odf/fire/pages/restrictions.aspx.

PORTLAND, Ore.—A Warm Springs, Oregon, man pleaded guilty today for assaulting his girlfriend with a pistol on the Warm Springs Indian Reservation.

Henry Jonathan Andrews, 29, pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon.

According to court documents, in October 2024, Andrews was driving with the victim on the Warm Springs Indian Reservation. Andrews became angry and pulled out a pistol. He struck the victim multiple times in the head with the pistol. Fearing for her life, the victim jumped from the moving car to escape him. She suffered extensive and life-threatening injuries as a result of the assault.

On November 20, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a two-count indictment charging Andrews with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury.

Andrews faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on November 13, 2025, before a U.S. District Judge.

This case was investigated by the FBI and the Warm Springs Tribal Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Pamela Paaso and Charlotte Kelley, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

Domestic violence is a serious crime that can include both physical and emotional abuse, and it is frequently hidden from public view. Many survivors suffer in silence, afraid to seek help or not knowing where to turn. The traumatic effects of domestic violence also extend beyond the abused person, impacting family members, friends, and communities.

If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, please call 911.

If you need assistance or know someone who needs help, please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Many communities throughout the country have also created support networks to assist survivors in the process of recovery.

The StrongHearts Native Helpline offers culturally specific support and advocacy for American Indian and Alaska Native survivors of domestic violence. Please call 1-844-762-8483 or visit www.strongheartshelpline.org for more information.

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore.—A federal jury in Portland found Peter Igwacho, 64, a Cameroonian national residing in Anchorage, Alaska, guilty Thursday for wire fraud.

According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, between April 2020 and October 2021, during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, Igwacho filed at least five fraudulent applications for pandemic stimulus funds through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury and Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. The information on those forms, in support of his request for stimulus funds, was fraudulent. The applications submitted by Igwacho were filed on behalf of a sole proprietorship that did not, in fact, have actual business operations, payrolled employees, or the reported gross revenues. 

Further, upon receipt of the stimulus funds, Igwacho did not spend those funds on approved pandemic-related expenses but instead spent the money on personal expenses. The PPP and EIDL programs were designed to help small businesses facing financial difficulties during the Covid-19 pandemic.

On July 23, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a three-count superseding indictment charging Igwacho with wire fraud.

Igwacho faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on November 18, 2025, before a U.S. District Judge.

This case was investigated by the Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General and Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. It was prosecuted by Robert Trisotto and Meredith Bateman, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon.

# # #

(Salem) – Christopher Brayton (child), age 11, went missing with his father Christopher Brayton (father) from Redmond on Aug. 18. The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division believes that Christopher Brayton (child) may be at risk and is searching for him to assess his safety.

ODHS asks the public to help in the effort to find Christopher Brayton (child). Anyone who suspects they have information about the location of him or his father should call 911 or the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline at 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).

They are believed to be traveling in a maroon Toyota truck with license plate 335NEC. They may be traveling towards Disneyland.  

Name: Christopher Brayton
Pronouns: He/him
Date of birth: Feb. 1, 2014
Height: 5-foot-8
Weight: 184 pounds
Hair: Brown
Eye color: Brown
Redmond Police Department Case #25-25538
National Center for Missing and Exploited Children #2059189

Sometimes when a child is missing they may be in significant danger and ODHS may need to locate them to assess and support their safety. As ODHS works to do everything it can to find these missing children and assess their safety, media alerts will be issued in some circumstances when it is determined necessary. Sometimes, in these situations, a child may go missing repeatedly, resulting in more than one media alert for the same child.

Report child abuse to the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline by calling 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).  This toll-free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services, 24 hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   

Media hotline: 503-813-6018 

Pacific Power urges customers to conserve energy now

Extreme weather across the region is causing higher than normal demand for electricity, and Pacific Power is encouraging our customers to reduce electricity consumption now. Pacific Power is asking all customers to voluntarily take steps to reduce energy use to help reduce strain on the electrical grid. 

Customers can take the following steps to help reduce the strain on the grid:

• Switch energy use to off-peak hours (from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m.) whenever possible. 
• Limit use of appliances that generate heat – including dishwashers, ovens and clothes dryers – to the evening or early morning. 
• Turn off lights, computers, televisions and appliances when not in use. 
• Use fans to keep air moving inside your home. 

For more information about energy conservation, visit PacificPower.net/SummerCooling .

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About Pacific Power 

Pacific Power provides safe and reliable electric service to more than 800,000 customers in Oregon, Washington and California. The company supplies customers with electricity from a diverse portfolio of generating plants including hydroelectric, natural gas, coal, wind, geothermal and solar resources. Pacific Power is part of PacifiCorp, one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States, with over two million customers in six western states. For more information, visit PacificPower.net.  

Salem, OR—The Oregon Department of Revenue is encouraging Oregon taxpayers to participate in an anonymous IRS feedback survey on tax preparation and filing options, which will run through September 2, 2025.

Oregon is one of 25 states that partnered with the IRS to provide a free option for taxpayers to file tax year 2024 returns electronically directly with the IRS and the state. More than 13,000 taxpayers filed their 2024 Oregon state income tax returns with Direct File Oregon, including almost 4,700 who first filed their federal returns with IRS Direct File.

“It’s important for Oregon taxpayers to take this opportunity to provide their valuable feedback to the IRS on free tax filing options,” said Oregon Department of Revenue director David Gerstenfeld. “Oregon counts on us to create a clear and easy experience for our customers and free tax filing options help us meet that mission.”

The Oregon Department of Revenue, the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the IRS encourage taxpayers to share their perspectives and help inform this important congressional report.

To participate, visit the Free Online Tax Preparation Feedback Survey or the IRS.gov landing page. Participation is anonymous.

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