Coos County, Ore. (Jan. 14, 2026)- Springfield assault suspect taken into custody.

On Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 11:46 a.m., Oregon State Police received information regarding a possible sighting of Marcquis Andrew Lee White (33) who was wanted in connection with an assault that occurred on Monday, January 12, 2026, in Springfield. Bandon Police Chief Cory Dhillon was first to arrive at the location, near milepost 7 on Seven Devils Road, and identified where White had fled down a steep embankment into the brushline. Chief Dhillon was able to direct responding personnel from the Oregon State Police, Bandon Police Deparment, Coos County Sheriff's Office, and Oregon State Police SWAT team, to White's last known location. Oregon State Police SWAT personnel were able to locate White and take him into custody without incident.

White was transported to a medical facility for evaluation and will be transferred to the custody of the Springfield Police Department, and ultimately lodged in the Lane County Jail for crimes associated with Monday's assault.

OSP would like to thank our law enforcement partners in Coos County and the United States Coast Guard for their dedication and persistence over the last 60 hours that led to the successful apprehension of White.

For information related to Monday's assault, contact the Springfield Police Department.

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About the Oregon State Police

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

Update- Oregon State Police Seeking Public Assistance

Oregon State Police is requesting any witnesses to the fatal crash that occurred on January 10, 2026, between 11:30 a.m. and 11:45 a.m., contact investigators to provide any information related to the incident. The pedestrian, who is deceased, was associated with a gray or aluminum Dodge Grand Caravan that was parked at the crash scene. The vehicle involved in the crash was a silver Ford Explorer. Investigators are looking for any information related to the vehicles prior to and at the time of the crash.

Anyone with information is asked to contact OSP’s Northern Command Dispatch Center at 800-442-0776 or by dialing OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP26-010591.

Jefferson County, Ore. (Jan. 12, 2026)- On Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 11:43 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle versus pedestrian crash on Highway 97, near milepost 101, in Jefferson County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a Ford Explorer, operated by James Edwin Legore (63) of Sandy (UT), was on the shoulder of the roadway and began to merge into the northbound lanes when it struck a pedestrian, Jared Elijah Cooper (38) of Madras, while reentering the highway.

The pedestrian (Cooper) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Ford (Legore) was reportedly uninjured.

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

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

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in the documentation, investigation, and analysis of complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in the use of advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

(Salem, Ore.) — The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) is pleased to announce the release of the 2026 Veterans Benefit Magazine, now available online and in print. This annual free publication is one of Oregon’s most widely used resources for veterans and their families, connecting Oregonians with the full range of state and federal benefits they have earned through their military service.
 

What’s New in the 2026 Edition

The 2026 Veterans Benefit Magazine includes comprehensive updates and resources such as:

• Updated contact information for all 36 county Veteran Service Offices, Oregon Tribal Veteran Service Offices and special advocacy
• 2026 VA Disability Compensation Rates
• Updated veteran license plate information including the new motorcycle/moped plates
• Veteran-focused behavioral health and suicide prevention resources, including BeyondTheMilitaryUniform.com
• 2026 ODVA Veteran Home Loan Program rates and program details
• Locations for VA Medical Centers, Community-Based Outpatient Clinics, and Vet Centers
• State and federal resources on health and dental care, transportation, employment, education and more

This magazine is designed for veterans at every stage of life—from those who have recently transitioned out of the military to long-time community members seeking updated benefit information or support. This magazine serves as a trusted starting point and ongoing guide to the state and federal veteran benefits veterans have earned through their service to our nation. It also serves as a helpful reference for families and survivors, caregivers, service providers, and community partners.
 

The 2026 edition is available here: 2026 Digital Veteran Benefit Magazine and can also be accessed on ODVA’s website: www.oregon.gov/odva.

Printed Copies Available: Veterans, service organizations, community partners, and any member of the public can order free printed copies online at: www.surveymonkey.com/r/VeteransBenefitMagazine.

The digital version may be downloaded for offline use and shared freely.

SALEM, Ore. – With below freezing overnight temperatures and recent home fires related to heating, the Oregon State Fire Marshal would like to remind Oregonians about the importance of fire safety. Since January 1, the agency has investigated 10 home fires across the state from various causes.

This past weekend, the Baker City Fire Department responded to two home fires related to fireplaces and chimneys. In Portland, a 64-year-old woman was taken to the hospital after a house fire Monday morning. Portland Fire and Rescue said she later died. Investigators believe the suspected cause of this fire is use of an extension cord on an auxiliary space heater.

“These fires come as a tragic reminder of the importance of home heating fire safety, the second leading cause of home fires every year in Oregon,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “Following fire safety guidance and testing smoke alarms regularly are important steps every Oregonian can take this winter.”

The Oregon State Fire Marshal offers these tips:

• Keep things that burn, like paper, curtains, bedding, or furniture, at least three feet away from all heating equipment, including fireplaces, wood stoves, and pellet stoves.
• Always plug space and portable heaters directly into a wall outlet and never into an extension cord or power strip.
• Have heating equipment and chimneys cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional.
• Keep space heaters out of the way of foot traffic. Never block an exit.
• Remember to turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, nearly half of heating equipment fires (46%) occurred in the three-month period from December through February.

In the first two weeks of 2026, three fire-related deaths were reported to the Oregon State Fire Marshal.
 

For more home heating safety tips, visit the OSFM’s website.

Following a record-setting year for underground utility locate requests in Oregon, a new rule aimed at reducing damage has adjusted the ticket life for excavation projects from 45 days to 30 days.

Oregon set an all-time record in 2025 with 382,441 locate requests. It was fitting to reach this milestone on the 30th anniversary of the Oregon Utility Notification Center, more commonly known as Oregon 811. The Oregon Legislature created the agency back in 1995 to prevent damage to underground utilities and promote safe excavation.

“Each locate request represents a contractor or homeowner doing the right thing and using our free service to know what’s below before digging,” said Josh Thomas, Executive Director for the Oregon Utility Notification Center. “Whether you’re working on a small project or a large one, hitting a utility when digging can range from a minor annoyance to a life changing catastrophe – and in most cases it is avoidable.”

People planning to dig should request locates at least two business days in advance. Whether they call 811, request locates through Oregon811.com or use its free iPhone and Android apps, the service is quick, easy and costs nothing to use. The Oregon 811 system uses no tax dollars and is funded by more than 1,000 utilities statewide.

Starting this month, a new change is being implemented that could impact those working on large and long-term excavation projects. The life of an excavation ticket in Oregon has been reduced from 45 days to 30 days. This new deadline is noted on the dig tickets, and excavators are encouraged to consider this in their project planning.

“By reducing the ticket life from 45 days to 30 days, we’re ensuring that excavation projects are supported by the most accurate and up-to-date information,” said Melanie Lewis, Chairperson of the Oregon Utility Notification Center Board of Directors. “This enhances safety, minimizes risk, encourages communication, and helps protect underground infrastructure and the communities we serve.”

Oregon's previous 45-day ticket life deviated from industry best practices as an outlier compared to most other states. Especially in the winter and spring, rainy weather can cause locate paint marks to fade or wash away. The board approved the change after two years of meetings, testimony, and deliberations, which amended OAR 952-001-0010 (23).

For details on the status of related rule changes, visit digsafelyoregon.com/rulemaking.

# # #

In 1995, the Oregon Legislature created the Oregon Utility Notification Center (OUNC) to establish a statewide notification system to reduce damages to underground facilities and to promote public safety related to excavation issues (ORS 757.547). The free service ensures that operators of underground facilities are notified of proposed excavation so the utilities can be located and marked in advance. For more information about the OUNC or the statewide notification system, go to Oregon811.com.

The Oregon Heritage Commission will meet via zoom at 9:00 a.m. on Jan. 26. Its agenda includes program updates and review and discussion of the draft 2026 Statewide Oregon Heritage Plan.
 

This meeting is open to the public and there is an opportunity at the beginning of the meeting for public comment. Public comment can be made online or by written submission. For online attendance, registration is required. To view the full agenda, register for the virtual meeting, or learn more about public comment options, visit here.
 

The Heritage Commission’s nine Governor appointed members represent a diversity of cultural, geographic, and institutional interests. The Commission’s nine advisory members include representatives from the Oregon State Library, Oregon State Archives, State Historical Records Advisory Board, Higher Education Coordinating Committee, Travel Oregon, Oregon Historical Society, Department of Education, State Historic Preservation Office, and the Department of Land Conservation and Development.

The Commission is the primary agency for coordination of heritage activities in the state. This includes carrying out the Oregon Heritage Plan, increasing efficiency and avoiding duplication among interest groups, developing plans for coordination among agencies and organizations, encouraging tourism related to heritage resources, and coordinating statewide anniversary commemorations.
 

More information about the Oregon Heritage Commission is available online at www.oregonheritage.org and from Commission coordinator Katie Henry at 503-877-8834 or katie.henry@oprd.oregon.gov. 

January 13, 2025

Media Contact: Kim Lippert

erly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Kimberly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov

971-323-3831

Oregon Health Authority seeks new members for Oversight and Accountability Council

Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is seeking applicants to serve on the Oversight and Accountability Council (OAC), a Council established by Ballot Measure 110 in 2020. The OAC is a public body of the state of Oregon that advises the Oregon Health Authority on the grant program described in ORS 430.389

Members of the OAC serve four-year terms. Members may be eligible for a stipend to compensate them for their time engaged official duties of the OAC. OHA is seeking new members in the categories described below:

• An academic researcher specializing in drug use or drug policy
• A representative of a coordinated care organization

To apply, submit an application here by 11:59 pm, January 30, 2026.

A team at OHA will review applications and inform applicants of appointments by Feb 13, 2026.

For questions or more information, email HRN@OHA.oregon.gov" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">BHRN@OHA.oregon.gov or contact Karli Moon at li.moon@oha.oregon.gov" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Karli.moon@oha.oregon.gov or 971-240-8690.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Tuesday, January 13, 2026

BEND, OR — With the new year in full swing, the High Desert Museum invites you to explore, learn and celebrate with an array of new and compelling events and programs in January and February.

On January 31 and February 28, everyone can experience the latest exhibitions, dynamic wildlife encounters and more for free during the Mid Oregon Credit Union Free Family Saturdays.

Along with free admission, Museum visitors can look forward to a special Daily Schedule. Guests can meet a nonreleasable raptor in the Museum’s care during the Bird of Prey Encounters happening every hour between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm. 

“Our partnership with High Desert Museum continues to be a great value for the credit union, members and the community for over 22 years,” said Kyle Frick, VP of Marketing for Mid Oregon Credit Union. “This is one of the annual high points that we look forward to each year, always getting better as time goes on!”

Free Days are just the beginning of an eventful winter at the Museum. On Saturday, January 24, visitors have a special opportunity to hear from author Linda Meanus (Warm Springs) during an afternoon talk and book signing. Meanus will discuss her recent book My Name is LaMoosh and share stories from her life.

Meanus grew up with her grandmother Flora Thompson and grandfather Chief Tommy Thompson near Celilo Falls and has persevered through life’s challenges to teach broad audiences about Indigenous ways of life and ongoing connections to the Columbia River. Tickets are $5 (20% discount for members) and free for Tribal members. The talk is followed by a book signing. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/linda-meanus-talk.

Then, on Thursday, February 12, a special members-only appreciation night welcomes members and their guests to an interactive, celebratory evening exploring the exhibition Soil Alive! The event includes music, a kid-friendly dinner with non-alcoholic beverages, beer, wine and a themed cocktail for purchase, and down-to-earth fun for all ages. Hands-on activities include soil painting and discovering the tiny wonders of soil through a microscope. The event is free for members and $5 for member guests. Discover more at highdesertmuseum.org/member-appreciation-2026.

Back for another year of 1920s excitement, the annual Prohibition Party returns on Friday, February 20. From 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm, the Museum steps back in time for a night of suede, silk and fringe. This year celebrating the cowboy and the flapper, the theme A Fringe Affair puts the 1920s in the High Desert. Michelle Van Handel and the Swingin’ Doors will provide live music alongside dancing, a costume contest and a pop-up exhibition to explore objects from 1920s Central Oregon. The Prohibition Party also includes food and drinks for purchase, a movie theater, make-n-take art stations for headpieces and bolos, plus two themed photo booths.

The event is 21 and older only, and costumes are encouraged. Tickets are $50 with two drink tickets or $35 with two non-alcoholic drink tickets. Members receive a 20% discount. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/prohibition-party-2026.

Finally, on Thursday, February 26, the quarterly program Museum & Me takes place. Museum & Me invites children and adults who experience physical, intellectual and/or social disabilities to enjoy the Museum after hours from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, providing a quiet space to discover new exhibitions and revisit favorites. Registration is required but tickets are free for individuals, friends and family. Learn more at highdesertmuseum.org/museum-and-me-feb-2026.

Visit highdesertmuseum.org/calendar to explore upcoming programs and events.

ABOUT THE MUSEUM: 

THE HIGH DESERT MUSEUM opened in Bend, Oregon in 1982. It brings together wildlife, cultures, art, history and the natural world to convey the wonder of North America’s High Desert. The Museum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, is a Smithsonian Affiliate, was the 2019 recipient of the Western Museums Association’s Charles Redd Award for Exhibition Excellence and was a 2021 recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service. To learn more, visit highdesertmuseum.org and follow us on TikTok, Facebook and Instagram. 

ABOUT MID OREGON CREDIT UNION:

Mid Oregon Credit Union is a full-service, member-owned financial cooperative headquartered in and serving Central Oregonians since 1957. With almost 49,000 members in Deschutes, Jefferson, Crook, Wheeler, Lake, and North Klamath Counties and almost $759 million in assets, Mid Oregon partners with members to meet their financial needs and to help them achieve their dreams. Mid Oregon was named a Top Workplace in Oregon and Southwest Washington for 2022, 2023, and 2024. It was also ranked the #1 credit union in Oregon by Forbes for 2023 and 2024 and received the Bend Bulletin’s Best of the Best of Bend Community Choice Award in the credit union category for 2023 and 2024. For more information about its services and branch locations in Bend, La Pine, Madras, Prineville, Redmond, and Sisters, please visit midoregon.com.

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HERMISTON, Ore. - The Oregon Army National Guard’s 3rd Battalion, 116th Cavalry Regiment, held a formal Change of Command ceremony at the Hermiston Army National Guard Armory on Jan. 10, 2026, as Lt. Col. Christopher R. Miller relinquished command to Maj. Jorge L. De Anda, who assumed command.

The ceremony marked not only a leadership change but also the beginning of the 3rd Battalion, 116th Cavalry Regiment's transition to an Infantry Battalion, as part of the Army’s Transformation in Contact initiative, designed to reorganize units for modern battlefield needs.

“This unit has a great history and lineage, and as you transition from 3-116 Armor to the 2nd [Battalion] of the 186th Infantry, you will honor the 116th lineage from World War II and the 2nd Battalion of the 186th Infantry Regiment,” said Col. Russell Gibson, 82nd Troop Command Brigade Commander, who presided over the ceremony. “As the 186, this unit was heavily involved in the Battle of Biak, which marked the first tank-versus-tank battle in the Pacific Theater.”

On July 30, 2025, three M1A2SEP tanks from Bravo Company's units participated in a ceremonial last-round event conducted on Range 26 at the Orchard Combat Training Center in Idaho, serving as a symbolic farewell to the units' armored heritage.

Overseeing the last-round event, Lt. Col. Miller wanted to ensure that tank crews had one last chance at tank qualification proficiency.

“I will say it feels a bit strange to be formally passing the colors today, and despite all that, I’m extremely grateful to be here and have the opportunity to officially hand off the baton,” said Miller as he addressed the unit. “Getting the chance to come back here and serve alongside you over the past couple of years has truly been the greatest honor of my life.”

With the shift to an Infantry Unit, Maj. De Anda has risen through the ranks over the years with the 3-116th, from enlisted Soldier to noncommissioned officer, and is now the Battalion Commander.

“I would like to acknowledge the local community members here today… In the National Guard, we have a unique mission to defend our nation and protect our state and local communities, and I am deeply grateful for your ongoing support,” De Anda said. “As we look ahead, I feel both excited and a touch of sadness. I am excited to be the first unit to transition to Mobile Infantry, but I will miss the gunnery… Nevertheless, our readiness to serve our state and country is what defines us, regardless of the equipment and our multiple roles.”

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Released Images: 

260110-Z-CH590-1133: Oregon Army National Guard Col. Russell Gibson, commander of the 82nd Troop Command Brigade, addresses those in attendance at the Change of Command ceremony for the 3rd Battalion, 116th Cavalry Regiment, held at the Hermiston Army National Guard Armory in Hermiston, Oregon, on Jan. 10, 2026. Gibson described the unit's transition from armor to infantry, drawing on the brigade's proud World War II history and lineage. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260110-Z-CH590-1120: (Left to right) Oregon Army National Guard Maj. Jorge L. De Anda, Lt. Col. Christopher R. Miller, and Col. Russell Gibson render a hand salute during the playing of the National Anthem as the Change of Command ceremony begins for the 3rd Battalion, 116th Cavalry Regiment, held at the Hermiston Army National Guard Armory in Hermiston, Oregon, on Jan. 10, 2026. Lt. Col. Miller relinquished command to Maj. De Anda, who will assume command as the unit begins a transition from armor to infantry as part of the Army’s Transformation in Contact initiative. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260110-Z-CH590-1128: (Left to right) Oregon Army National Guard Col. Russell Gibson, Maj. Jorge L. De Anda and Lt. Col. Christopher R. Miller stand at attention during the Change of Command ceremony for the 3rd Battalion, 116th Cavalry Regiment, held at the Hermiston Army National Guard Armory in Hermiston, Oregon, on Jan. 10, 2026. Lt. Col. Miller relinquished command to Maj. De Anda, who will assume command as the unit begins a transition from armor to infantry as part of the Army’s Transformation in Contact initiative. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260110-Z-CH590-1132: Oregon National Guard Lt. Col. Christopher R. Miller (right) receives a leadership gift from Sgt. Maj. Martin (left) and the unit members during the Change of Command Ceremony for the 3rd Battalion, 116th Cavalry Regiment, at the Hermiston Army National Guard Armory in Hermiston, Oregon, on Jan. 10, 2026. Lt. Col. Miller relinquished command to Maj. De Anda, who will assume command as the unit transitions from armor to infantry as part of the Army’s Transformation in Contact initiative. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260110-Z-CH590-1125: Oregon Army National Guard Maj. Jorge L. De Anda delivers his remarks as the incoming commander to those in attendance at the 3rd Battalion, 116th Cavalry Regiment, held at the Hermiston Army National Guard Armory in Hermiston, Oregon, on Jan. 10, 2026. Lt. Col. Christopher Miller relinquished command to Maj. De Anda as the unit transitions from armor to infantry as part of the Army’s Transformation in Contact initiative. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260110-Z-CH590-1139: Oregon National Guard Lt. Col. Christopher R. Miller (left) receives the unit colors from Command Sgt. Maj. Anthony Martin (right) during the Change of Command Ceremony for the 3rd Battalion, 116th Cavalry Regiment, at the Hermiston Army National Guard Armory in Hermiston, Oregon, on Jan. 10, 2026. Lt. Col. Miller relinquished command to Maj. De Anda, who will assume command as the unit transitions from armor to infantry as part of the Army’s Transformation in Contact initiative. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 13, 2026

Oregon Community Foundation Contact

Colin Fogarty, Director of Communications, Oregon Community Foundation

(503) 720-3112 | ty@oregoncf.org">cfogarty@oregoncf.org

Oregon Humanities Contact

Ben Waterhouse, Communications Director, Oregon Humanities

(503) 241-0543 | .waterhouse@oregonhumanities.org">b.waterhouse@oregonhumanities.org

OCF FIELDS FELLOWSHIP INVESTS IN OREGON ARTISTS AND COMMUNITIES

Four Oregon Artists Each Receive $150,000 Over Two Years

PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon Community Foundation, in partnership with Oregon Humanities, has named four Oregonians to the Fields Artist Fellowship, which awards $150,000 over two years to Oregon-based artists working to address issues within their communities through creativity and cultural expression.

• Amber Kay Ball (Portland)
• Yanely Rivas Maldonado (Salem)
• Talilo Marfil (Portland)
• Ernesto Javier Martínez (Eugene)

“These four people are amazing changemakers,” said Jerry Tischleder, Senior Program Officer for Arts and Culture at Oregon Community Foundation. “They have deep connections in their communities and are using creativity in vastly different and incredible ways to spark hope, inspiration and connection, and to raise voices that aren’t always heard. These investments come at times that will open doors for them in ways that wouldn’t be possible otherwise. It’s going to be amazing to see what they do.”

The Fellowship will support these creative individuals to advance their artistic practice and honor and sustain their commitment to create social change within their community. In addition to the $150,000 award, fellows will receive professional development, networking and community-building opportunities throughout the two-year term.

Community members across the state reviewed applications and interviewed finalists to select this cohort of fellows. The Fellowship term will begin in May 2026 and run through May 2028.

In addition to the four fellows, these other finalists will also receive a one-time award of $10,000.

• Oluyinka Akinjiola (Portland)
• Micah BlackLight Lael (Ashland)
• Chisao Hata (Portland)
• Anthony Hudson (Portland)
• Jose Antonio Huerta (Springfield)
• Fish Martinez (Siletz)
• Concepcion Samano (Falls City)

Artists of all disciplines and artistic media are eligible for the Fields Artist Fellowship, including writers, filmmakers, visual artists, multimedia artists, culture bearers and performance artists. Eligibility requirements include the following:

• At least five years of professional practice in an artistic discipline or combination of disciplines
• At least three years of residence in Oregon and the intent to reside in Oregon for the majority of the fellowship term (May 2026 to May 2028)
• Demonstrable evidence of artistic practice that can engage with community groups and organizations and/or address community concerns

Oregon Community Foundation, in partnership with Oregon Humanities, administers the program and convenes gatherings for the fellows. Funding is provided by the Fred W. Fields Fund of Oregon Community Foundation. This is the fourth cohort of Fields Artist Fellows, joining twelve previous recipients awarded in 2019, 2021 and 2024.

About the Artists

Amber Kay Ball (she/her) is a Citizen of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. Born in Portland, Oregon, she is a director, playwright, visual artist and community-based advocate. As a contemporary multi-practice artist, Amber uses theater, multimedia and beadwork as mediums for sharing stories, truths, laughter and joy. These mediums allow Amber to critically explore, honor and weave Native pasts, presents and futures in a just and liberated methodology. She is a co-founder of Native Playwrights PDX and works to support multigenerational Native theater-makers in the process of new play creation and direction.

Ball plans to use her Fields Fellowship to invest in time for new play development and creation, as well as share current works around Oregon with community. Her hope is to continue with more playwriting and theater making workshops to support more early career Native theater makers in sharing story and continuing advocating for our communities.

Yanely Rivas Maldonado (she/they) is a working-class printmaker, cultural worker and educator with ancestral roots in the mountains of Michoacán, Mexico — lands traditionally steward by the P'urépecha. Her art practice has been sowed in community and has flourished in the versatile soil of social justice movements and solidarity efforts she’s been a part of over the last decade. Their art is an offering and prayer for a world where we are all beautifully free and interconnected — living in good relationship with the lands, waters and beings that so graciously nourish our hearts. They create artwork to weave us across the continuum of past-present-future and to leave seeds of ancestral memory, resistance, joy and hope along the path back to center — back to home.

Yanely’s primary creative mediums are printmaking, digital illustration and social practice art. Over the last couple of years, she’s been deepening her art practice in traditional cultural arts including basket weaving, natural dyes, beadwork and gourd art.

Yanely plans to use the Fellowship as an opportunity to invest time in foundational arts training and creating a sustainable studio space for printmaking, natural dyeing and traditional crafts. The grant will support her vision to organize art 0fferings in her community and participate in a residency in Oaxaca, Mexico, while strengthening ties with cultural workers and bearers in the U.S. and Mexico.

"Receiving this Fellowship is truly a blessing. It gives me the time and space to go deep into my art practice in a way that I haven't been able to do before and in a way that feels sustainable and life-giving. I'm looking forward to all aspects of the journey and seeing what artistic seeds take root and bloom for me and my community long-term because of this opportunity." ~ Yanely Rivas Maldonado

Talilo Marfil (he/him) is a West Bisayan immigrant, Filipino American hip hop artist and community leader focused on advancing youth voice, cultural preservation and equitable access to creative resources. For over a decade, he has developed and led arts-based programs with marginalized youth, including co-founding Ascending Flow in East Portland and helping develop Keys, Beats, Bars at MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility in partnership with the Oregon Health Authority. He is the founder of Peer Tribe Foundation, which supports artists and leaders creating measurable impact in their communities. Talilo’s work centers storytelling as a tool for healing, self-advocacy and change. In the city of bridges, he serves as a bridge between culture, community and creative opportunity.

Through this Fellowship, Talilo will expand his music career while using his platform to attract and reinvest resources through Peer Tribe Foundation. The grant will support cultural exchange in the Philippines, sustain hip-hop workshops for youth in correctional facilities, and launch a portable recording studio project in Oregon.

“Receiving this Fellowship means I can pour back into the communities that shaped me. I’m looking forward to honoring ancestral knowledge, expanding access to creative resources, and creating spaces where young people see their voices as powerful and necessary.”~ Talilo Marfil

Ernesto Javier Martínez (he/him) is a queer Chicano/Puerto Rican writer, educator and filmmaker. He was born in Oakland, California, raised between Mexico and the United States, and currently lives in Eugene. He studied literature at Stanford and Cornell, becoming a university professor at the age of 28. Ernesto pivoted toward artistic work when he collaborated with illustrator Maya Gonzalez, authoring When We Love Someone, We Sing to Them, the first bilingual children’s book published in North America about a boy who loves a boy. This book earned two International Latino Book Awards and was selected for the American Library Association's “Rainbow Book List." He began working as a screenwriter and filmmaker when he collaborated with Director Adelina Anthony, writing and producing his first short film, La Serenata, winner of 11 best film awards and distributed by HBO Max. He later contributed to beloved children’s television programs such as Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, Sesame Street, and Lyla in the Loop, and co-wrote Daniel Visits a New Neighborhood: The Movie (PBS Kids), introducing a new Latinx family to the Emmy-winning franchise.

Ernesto’s work has earned him the Lambda Literary Award, Imagen Award, Spark Award for Oregon Artists, HBO Latinx Short Film Competition Award, and fellowships from the Ford Foundation, Mellon Foundation, and NALIP.

This support comes at a pivotal moment as Ernesto is finalizing his first live action feature film La Serenata and beginning bold new projects that challenge stereotypes and inspire hope. Ernesto plans to produce an animated TV pilot, The Boy Who Became a River, a fantasy adventure that honors migrant struggles and uplifts queer Latinx youth. The grant will help him create sustainable ways to develop content in Oregon, while building a local creative community.

“Receiving the Fields Artist Fellowship is an incredible honor because it affirms the importance of telling stories that center queer Latinx youth. Too often, these voices are marginalized or erased, and this Fellowship gives me the resources and time to create work that celebrates their resilience, complexity and beauty. I’m excited to use this support to build imaginative worlds that inspire hope and belonging for the next generation.”~ Ernesto Javier Martínez

About Oregon Community Foundation

Since 1973, Oregon Community Foundation has worked to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. Each year, OCF distributes more than $200 million in grants and scholarships in every county in Oregon in partnership with donors and volunteers. 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.

About Oregon Humanities

Oregon Humanities connects people and communities through conversation, storytelling, and participatory programs to inspire understanding and collaborative change. More information about our programs and publications — which include Consider This, Conversation Project, Humanity in Perspective, The Detour podcast, Facilitation Training, and Oregon Humanities magazine — can be found at oregonhumanities.org. Oregon Humanities is an independent, nonprofit affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities and a partner of the Oregon Cultural Trust.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office
Madras, Oregon
January 9, 2026

High-Speed Pursuit Leads to Arrest of Wanted Felon, Second Suspect, and Seizure of Firearms

On January 7, 2026, at 10:56 p.m., a Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office deputy observed a black Chrysler 300 with expired registration at the City Pump gas station in Madras. The passenger was identified as Jasmine Graybael, 35, of Warm Springs, who is known to associate with Edward F. Jones, 32, of Gresham, a fugitive with an active nationwide felony warrant issued by the U.S. Marshals Service.

Prior to the attempted stop, the vehicle accelerated to 90 mph in a 25-mph zone and then failed to yield to the deputies who attempted a stop. The vehicle continued onto U.S. Highway 26, reaching 130+ mph, entering the oncoming lane, and endangering motorists. The pursuit ended when the vehicle crashed at the intersection of SE Lone Pine Road and SE Hwy 26.

Following the crash, Jones fled on foot into nearby sagebrush. A coordinated multi-agency response, including aerial assistance from the Prineville Police Department, led to Jones being located approximately 100 yards from the crash site. He was taken into custody without incident with assistance from the Crook County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, and Madras Police Department.

During the investigation two firearms were recovered, a loaded 9mm magazine, ammunition, a glass pipe with residue, and other items.

Graybael was arrested for Hindering Prosecution and Obliterating a Firearm Serial Number. Both suspects were lodged at the Jefferson County Jail, with Jones held on his federal warrant and additional charges, including Eluding Police, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Reckless Driving, and Reckless Endangering.

No deputies or community members were injured. JCSO thanks Prineville PD, Crook County Sheriff’s Office, Madras Police Department and the Oregon State Police for their assistance in this case. 

Respectfully

Jason Pollock, Sheriff 

Clatsop County, Ore. (Jan. 12, 2026)- On Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 1:46 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 26, near milepost 1, in Clatsop County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Subaru Forester, operated by Smith Ward Humphreys (47) of Warrenton, crossed into the eastbound lanes to pass westbound vehicles and struck an eastbound Toyota Rav4, operated by Daysy Vanesa Camarena (37) of Whittier (CA).

The operator of the Subaru (Humphreys) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Toyota (D. Camarena) and passenger, Joshua Zeke Camarena (33) of Whittier (CA), suffered reported serious injuries and were transported to an area hospital.

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

OSP was assisted by the Seaside Fire Department and ODOT.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in the documentation, investigation, and analysis of complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in the use of advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Klamath County, Ore. (Jan. 12, 2026)- On Friday, January 9, 2026, at 6:20 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 97, near milepost 228, in Klamath County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a Ford F-450, operated by Douglas Alan Fordyce (61) of Caldwell (ID), was stopped westbound on Silver Lake Road at the intersection with Highway 97. The Ford attempted to enter the highway and was struck by a southbound Freightliner commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by Sebastian Mercado Juarez (29) of Fresno (CA), causing a side impact collision.

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

The operator of the Freightliner (S. Juarez) and passenger, Christian Mercado Juarez (31) of Fresno (CA), suffered reported minor injuries.

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

OSP was assisted by Chiloquin Fire and Rescue, Chemult Rural Fire District, and ODOT.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in the documentation, investigation, and analysis of complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in the use of advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

January 12, 2026

Contact: Amy Coven, amy.coven@oha.oregon.gov, 503-943-0164

State Urges People of Oregon to Act Before Open Enrollment Ends and Beware of Health Coverage Scams

Salem, OR — TK Keen, Oregon’s insurance commissioner, is reminding the people of Oregon that open enrollment for health coverage ends Jan. 15, 2026, and is urging residents to act now to avoid gaps in coverage and protect themselves from scam websites and misleading health plans.

“Quality, affordable health coverage is essential to the well-being of every person in Oregon and their families,” Keen said. “As open enrollment comes to a close, I want people to have accurate information so they can enroll with confidence and avoid being taken advantage of by scammers.”

As the enrollment deadline approaches, state officials warn that fake websites, aggressive sales tactics, and so-called ‘junk’ health plans often target consumers searching for coverage. These plans may appear affordable but frequently do not meet federal standards, offer limited or no coverage for essential services, and can leave people with unexpected medical bills.

People looking for health coverage should watch out for warning signs, including:

• Websites or sales calls claiming to offer “free” or “guaranteed” health insurance
• Requests for payment or personal information before confirming eligibility
• Plans that do not cover essential health benefits such as prescriptions, mental health care, or preventive services
• Short-term or limited-benefit plans marketed as comprehensive insurance

State officials emphasize that the only way to be sure you are enrolling in legitimate, comprehensive coverage is to use trusted sources and trained insurance experts.

“People in Oregon deserve coverage that actually works when they need it,” said Keen. “If a plan sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”

Residents who miss the open enrollment deadline may have to wait until the next enrollment period unless they qualify for a special enrollment period due to a major life event, such as losing other coverage, moving, or changes in household size.

Help is available. Free, unbiased assistance is offered to help people compare plans, understand financial assistance options, and enroll before the deadline.

For accurate information and enrollment assistance, visit OregonHealthCare.gov or call 855-268-3767 (all relay calls accepted).

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12 de enero de 2026

Contacto: Amy Coven, amy.coven@oha.oregon.gov, 503-943-0164

El estado insta a la población de Oregon a actuar antes de que termine la inscripción abierta y a tener cuidado con las estafas de cobertura de salud

Salem, OR — TK Keen, comisionado de seguros de Oregon, recuerda a la población de Oregon que la inscripción abierta para la cobertura de salud termina el 15 de enero de 2026, y insta a los habitantes a actuar ahora para evitar interrupciones en la cobertura y protegerse de sitios web fraudulentos y planes de salud engañosos.

"Una cobertura de salud asequible y de calidad es esencial para el bienestar de cada persona en Oregon y sus familias", afirmó Keen. "A medida que la inscripción abierta llega a su fin, quiero que la gente tenga información precisa para poder inscribirse con confianza y evitar que los estafadores se aprovechen de ellos."

A medida que se acerca la fecha límite de inscripción, las autoridades estatales advierten que sitios web falsos, tácticas de venta agresivas y los llamados planes de salud 'basura' suelen dirigirse a los consumidores que buscan cobertura. Estos planes pueden parecer asequibles, pero con frecuencia no cumplen con los estándares federales, ofrecen cobertura limitada o ninguna para servicios esenciales y pueden dejar a las personas con facturas médicas inesperadas.

Las personas que buscan cobertura de salud deben estar atentas a las señales de advertencia, incluyendo:

• Sitios web o llamadas de ventas que afirman ofrecer un seguro médico "gratuito" o "garantizado"
• Solicitudes de pago o información personal antes de confirmar la elegibilidad
• Planes que no cubren beneficios esenciales de salud como recetas, atención de salud mental o servicios preventivos
• Planes a corto plazo o de prestación limitada comercializados como seguro integral

Las autoridades estatales enfatizan que la única forma de asegurarse de que te inscribes en una cobertura legítima y completa es utilizar fuentes de confianza y expertos en seguros capacitados.

"Las personas en Oregon merecen una cobertura que realmente funcione cuando la necesitan", dijo Keen. "Si un plan suena demasiado bueno para ser verdad, probablemente lo sea."

Los habitantes que no alcancen la fecha límite de inscripción abierta pueden tener que esperar hasta el próximo periodo de inscripción, a menos que cumplan los requisitos para un periodo especial debido a un evento importante en su vida, como perder otra cobertura, mudarse o cambios en el tamaño del hogar.

Hay ayuda disponible. Se ofrece asistencia gratuita e imparcial para ayudar a las personas a comparar planes, entender las opciones de asistencia financiera y inscribirse antes de la fecha límite.

Para obtener información precisa y ayuda con la inscripción, visita CuidadoDeSalud.Oregon.gov o llama al 855-268-3767 (se aceptan todas las llamadas de retransmisión).

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CLACKAMAS COUNTY, Ore. (12 January 2026) – The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is seeking the public’s assistance to identify the person(s) responsible for dumping salmon along the shoulder of Highway 224 east of SE Tong Road in Clackamas County.

The salmon were discovered by a nearby property owner around December 19, 2025.

Anyone with any information is asked to call the Turn-In-Poachers (TIP) line at 1-800-452-7888, OSP (677) from a mobile phone, or email TIP@osp.oregon.gov. Please reference case number #SP25-517721.

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators

The Turn In Poachers (TIP) program is a collaboration between the Oregon State Police, Oregon Hunters Association, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Oregon Wildlife Coalition, Oregon Outfitter and Guides Association, and the Oregon State Marine Board.

The TIP program offers preference point rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of big game mammals.  

Preference Point Rewards

5 Points: Bighorn Sheep

5 Points: Rocky Mountain Goat

5 Points: Moose

5 Points: Wolf

4 Points: Elk

4 Points: Deer

4 Points: Pronghorn Antelope

4 Points: Bear

4 Points: Cougar

The TIP program also offers cash rewards for information leading to an arrest or issuance of a citation for the unlawful take/possession or waste of the following fish and wildlife species. Cash rewards can also be awarded for habitat destruction, illegally obtaining hunting or angling license or tag, lending or borrowing big game tags, spotlighting, or snagging.

Cash Rewards

Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) cash rewards:

$2,000 Bighorn Sheep, Mountain Goat, or Moose

$1,000 Elk, Deer, or Antelope

$600 Bear, Cougar, or Wolf
$400 Game Fish & Shellfish
$400 Snagging/Attempt to Snag

$300 Habitat destruction

$200 Illegally obtaining Oregon hunting or angling license or tags

$200 Unlawful lending/borrowing big game tag(s)

$200 Game Birds or Furbearers

$200 Spotlighting

Rewards for Game Fish & Shellfish and Snagging/Attempting to Snag are sponsored, in part, by Northwest Steelheaders Association and Coastal Conservation Association.

Oregon Wildlife Coalition (OWC) Cash Rewards:

$500 Hawk, Falcon, Eagle, Owl, Osprey

$500 Cougar, Bobcat, Beaver (public lands only), Black bears, Bighorn Sheep, Marten, Fisher, Sierra Nevada Red Fox

$1,000 Species listed as “threatened" or “endangered" under state or federal Endangered Species Act (excludes fish)
$10,000 for Wolves east of Highway 395 and $11,500 for Wolves east of Highway 395 and north of Highway 20

Oregon Outfitters & Guides Association (OOGA) Cash Rewards:

$200 Acting as an Outfitter Guide for the Illegal Killing of Wildlife, Illegally Obtaining Oregon Hunting or Angling Licenses or Tags, or Illegally Offering to Act as an Outfitter Guide as defined in ORS 704.010 and 704.020.

How to Report a Wildlife and/or Habitat Law Violation or Suspicious Activity:

TIP Hotline: 1-800-452-7888 or OSP (677)

TIP email: TIP@osp.oregon.gov (monitored Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

For more information visit the Oregon State Police Turn-in-Poachers (TIP) web page.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police

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

January 12, 2025

Media Contact: Kim Lippert

erly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;">Kimberly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov

971-323-3831

Oregon Health Authority, Fora Health expand recovery housing in southeast Portland

PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon Health Authority (OHA) joined Fora Health and community organizations at a groundbreaking ceremony on Jan. 9 for a new supportive housing development made possible by state investments that expand where people can get care. When completed in 2027, the new facility, near Fora Health’s outpatient treatment center, will provide 46 new recovery housing beds in 23 rooms.

Ashley Thirstrup, chief of staff for Oregon Health Authority, delivers remarks during the groundbreaking for Fora Home on Jan. 9 in Portland. OHA provided $4 million in funding for the housing complex, which will support people in recovery from substance use disorder.

“Recovery doesn’t happen in isolation—it requires stability, dignity and a real chance to rebuild,” Governor Tina Kotek said. “This project at Fora Health brings together housing and treatment in a way that meets people where they are and supports long-term recovery. By investing in supportive housing like this, Oregon is strengthening our behavioral health system and helping more people transition from treatment to lasting stability in their lives and in our communities.”

“Stable housing is essential to recovery and to the overall health of our communities,” said OHA’s Behavioral Health Director Ebony Clarke. “This supportive housing facility represents exactly the kind of investment we need—one that expands housing capacity, creates accessible pathways through the behavioral health continuum and supports people at a vulnerable transition point. OHA is proud to support Fora Health on a project that offers hope, dignity and real opportunity for long-term recovery.”

Fora Home, a new supportive housing development will be located near Fora Health’s outpatient center at 10230 SE Cherry Blossom Drive in southeast Portland.

Fora Health Chief Executive Officer Devarshi Bajpai said the project addresses both the addiction and housing crisis at the same time.

“This facility will give people completing treatment a safe, supportive place to live while they continue their recovery journey,” he said. “With stable housing and access to clinical care, peer support and community resources, individuals can build stronger foundations for their futures and successfully reintegrate into the community.”

Ashley Thirstrup, chief of staff for Oregon Health Authority, joins dignitaries for the groundbreaking of Fora Home located in southeast Portland. The facility will give people a supportive place to live while on their recovery journey. The housing facility is expected to open in 2027 and will provide 46 new recovery housing beds.

OHA is providing funds through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and is part of a multi-partner collaboration. The 20,000-square-foot development is supported by a coalition of partners including Multnomah County, OHA, Portland Clean Energy Fund, Centene Foundation, Trillium Community Health Plan and the Maybelle Clark Macdonald Fund, as well as a recovery house developed in partnership with Transcending Hope.

The new facility is at 10230 SE Cherry Blossom Drive in southeast Portland.

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The ISOR-PH Regular board meeting has been scheduled for January 15th, 2025 @11:30.

Insight School of Oregon Painted Hills Board Members are hereby notified that a Meeting of the Board is scheduled for January 15th, 2026 @11:30am. 

The meeting will take place on January 15th, 2026 @11:30am.

Insight School of Oregon Painted Hills Board Members are hereby notified that the Meeting of the Board will be held at:

1.Via Teleconference - using any of the following US phone numbers

+1 253 215 8782

+1 346 248 7799

+1 669 900 9128

+1 301 715 8592

+1 312 626 6799

+1 646 558 8656

Meeting ID is: 915 0788 7277

And

2. Via Zoom Meeting Link:

https://onlineoregon-org.zoom.us/j/91507887277

The Public has been invited to the Board Meeting with notices posted at the following locations:

A. FlashNet Newswire

http://flashalertbend.net/press-releases.html

B. Insight School of Oregon Painted Hills Office

603 NW 3rd Street

Prineville, OR 97754

A pilot program that provides cash and other supports to Oregon youth experiencing homelessness made a significant contribution to their ability to secure stable housing. The supports also enabled youth to achieve independence, according to a report issued by researcher Young People to the Front.  

The Direct Cash Transfer Plus (DCT+) pilot program operates through a partnership between Point Source Youth and the Youth Experiencing Homelessness Program (YEHP) within the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS). It pairs cash support with housing navigation, education on managing personal finances and other supportive services that are provided through three community partners   ̶   the Native American Youth and Family Center (NAYA), Antfarm and JBarJ Youth Services.

The study by Young People to the Front included 63 of the pilot program’s first 120 participants who completed a series of surveys during the two years they received support. Of those, 94 percent self-reported that they were housed at the end of the program. 

“We are very encouraged by the early results showing that Direct Cash Transfers help youth move beyond survival mode and toward building more stable, independent lives,” said YEHP Program Manager Matthew Rasmussen. “By creating space for emotional stability, financial skills, and rental history, this approach significantly reduces the likelihood of chronic adult homelessness."

The cash support is essential as it helps youth overcome common barriers to stable housing such as a lack of credit history and sufficient income, Rasmussen added. It can be used for rent, deposits, furniture and transportation.

“Oregon’s results confirm what we saw in New York: When you cover the real cost of shared housing directly for two years—and pair it with support—young people stay housed,” said Larry Cohen, co-founder and executive director at Point Source Youth. “This isn’t complicated. Stability takes time, and flexible cash gives young people the breathing room to build it.”

Other findings from the first two years of the pilot program include:

• 72 percent of participants were working or enrolled in school. 
• The number of youth achieving high school diplomas increased by 8.1 percent over the course of the program.
• Participation in financial literacy workshops increased by 23 percent. 

Combined, the supports offer youth an opportunity to change the trajectory of their lives.

“DCT helped me move from survival mode into a place where I could heal, grow, and plan for a sustainable future,” said Gabrielle Huffman of Bend, who participated in the program. “Just one year after completing DCT, I’m in my own place, halfway through a business degree, focused on building a stable, secure foundation for my daughter and myself, and working toward becoming a nonprofit leader who supports her community.”

Direct Cash Transfer Plus operated in Multnomah, Clackamas and Deschutes counties during the initial pilot. Jackson County has since been added for the second group of 120 participants.  Participants must be between the ages of 18 and 24 when they apply for support for a two-year period.  The second group of 120 participants have been selected and the pilot program is not currently accepting new applications. 

Youth in the program work with a case manager to establish self-directed goals that contribute to their long-term housing stability and overall well-being needs. Cash support is provided for up to two years to help meet their ongoing needs as they work to establish stable housing.

Funding for the initial pilot program was provided through an interagency agreement between ODHS and Oregon Housing and Community Services. To help support the second group of participants who are in the current pilot, YEHP received a $1 million philanthropic donation and some funding through Senate Bill 5526.  

Direct Cash Transfer Plus is just one of a variety of services offered through YEHP. 

YEHP is committed to helping young people, ages 14–24, who are experiencing homelessness through a network of community partnerships. These partnerships connect youth to critical resources and services, build trusted relationships, provide access to everyday essentials such as showers, laundry facilities, and academic and employment support, and offer temporary shelter and housing opportunities.

YEHP’s tuition and fee waiver assistance support is also delivering results. From fall of 2023 to current, YEHP has approved 267 tuition and fee waivers for eligible youth experiencing homelessness through partnerships with Oregon’s public universities and community colleges. The universities and colleges agree to waive the tuition and fees for qualifying youth. 

YEHP continues to expand its focus on prevention strategies and housing stability initiatives. The program’s goal is to help youth avoid entering homelessness in the first place and to secure and maintain stable housing, reducing the likelihood of future homelessness as adults.

Learn more about YEHP and other programs and services for youth in Oregon.

Additional resources:

Two-page summary of the Direct Cash Transfer Plus program

Contact ODHS Communications (see above contact) for photos of:

Matt Rasmussen, Youth Experiencing Homelessness Program Manager with the Oregon Department of Human Services

Larry Cohen, co-founder and executive director at Point Source Youth

Gabrielle Huffman, Direct Cash Transfer Plus participant in the initial pilot 

Other quotes from youth in the Direct Cash Transfer Plus program:

“The DCT program is how I'm still alive. If I did not have such support in the beginning of the program I would still be stuck in a homeless pit. DCT gave me a very reliable resource it was the reason I could eat … and had a slice of freedom at the end of the night.”

“I have been able to completely change my life, graduate college, support my family, buy a car, build savings habits and financial literacy.” 

“I left sex work and I was able to focus on healing myself, pay for school expenses, and begin putting the work in starting a small beaded earring and art business.” 

“Without this program I would still be a homeless single parent, struggling to provide even the basics for myself and my child.” 

“Honestly, it just gave me valuable time to be able to figure out my life as a young adult. I don’t know how else to put it. DCT has been a tremendous help.”

Quotes from youth who received tuition assistance through YEHP partnerships:

“I want to thank you again for your help with registering me for the YEHP. I’m excited to share that I’m currently maintaining an A average in both of my property management classes and am hoping to secure an internship by winter to apply what I’ve learned in a real-world setting. [This] support has given me access to academic opportunities I wouldn’t have been able to afford on my own, and I’m truly grateful for that.”

"I am currently facing a lot of positive change. My job promoted me to case manager for my county. I am super honored and excited for this opportunity, and with it I will be having a larger workload. Along with my promotion, I am attending community college to get my associate [degree] in general studies then transfer to a university to obtain a political science degree. The YEHP Tuition and Fee Waiver helped me with this path."

PUBLIC SAFETY MEMORIAL FUND BOARD

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Public Safety Memorial Fund Board will hold a regular meeting on January 22, 2026, directly following the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting that begins at 9:00 am. at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE Salem. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167.

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve October 23, 2025, Meeting Minutes

3. Budget Update

   Presented by Marie Atwood

4. Officer John Christopher Kilcullen (DPSST #35147); Eugene Police Department; Supplemental Application for Discretionary PSMF Benefits

   Presented by Marie Atwood

5. Battalion Chief Michael Merlino (DPSST #08324); Sutherlin Fire Department; Supplemental Application for Discretionary PSMF Benefits

    Presented by Marie Atwood

6. Next meeting – April 23, 2026, directly following the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training meeting at 9:00 a.m.

Administrative Announcement

This is a public meeting, subject to the public meeting law and it will be recorded. 

Información en español

Workers and consumers in Oregon now have a new guide for understanding and using their rights to work safely and to protect against fraud thanks to the Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) and its partners.

The free publication – “Your Safety and Rights: A Guide for Oregon Workers” – is available online in Spanish and English, with more languages planned. Printed copies may be ordered by email: esource@dcbs.oregon.gov">osha.resource@dcbs.oregon.gov. Oregon OSHA is working with its partners to distribute the guide in communities across the state.

The guide shows workers and consumers the common workplace safety and health hazards, and fraudulent schemes they may face; explains what their employers must do to protect them; illustrates how they can take action to protect themselves; and provides more resources, including a directory of community organizations, regulatory agencies, and services.
 

“We created this guide to be evergreen, available to workers and consumers whenever they need it,” said Renée Stapleton, administrator for Oregon OSHA. “It includes everything from how to protect yourself from workplace hazards and tips shielding you from financial harm to resources that connect workers and consumers to helpful programs and services.”

Oregon OSHA is a division of the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services (DCBS). The department’s mission is to equitably protect and empower consumers and workers while maintaining a predictable yet innovative regulatory environment for the businesses we regulate. The department’s divisions and programs include the Building Codes Division, Division of Financial Regulation, Multicultural Communications Program, Ombuds Office for Oregon Workers, Small Business Ombudsman, Workers’ Compensation Division, and Workers’ Compensation Board.

The guide enhances public education and training efforts by DCBS and its partners in labor, government, business, and insurance.

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About Oregon OSHA: Oregon OSHA enforces the state's workplace safety and health rules and works to improve workplace safety and health for all Oregon workers. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit osha.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

Terrebonne, OR – The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is reminding residents about this week’s community Town Hall meeting on Wednesday, January 14, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Terrebonne Community School.

These Town Halls offer residents the opportunity to connect directly with their Sheriff’s Office, ask questions, share concerns, and provide ideas to help shape the future of public safety in Deschutes County.

Sheriff Rupert’s next Town Hall will make a stop in Sisters on Wednesday, January 21, at Sisters Elementary School from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Additional Town Halls are in the works, including several in Bend.

Sheriff’s Town Hall Meeting Schedule

Terrebonne

• Date: Wednesday, January 14, 2026
• Time: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
• Location: Terrebonne Community School, 1199 B Ave., Terrebonne, OR

Sisters

• Date: Wednesday, January 21, 2026
• Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
• Location: Sisters Elementary School, 2155 McKinney Butte Rd, Sisters, OR 

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PORTLAND, Ore.—Today, the Justice Department announced criminal charges against Luis Nino-Moncada, an illegal alien and known Tren de Aragua (TdA) associate living in the Portland, Oregon area for violently striking a federal law enforcement vehicle. During a targeted enforcement operation, Nino-Moncada is alleged to have repeatedly struck a federal law enforcement vehicle, placing Border Patrol agents in harm’s way and resulting in significant damage to federal property. Nino-Moncada is in the country illegally, having previously been ordered removed by an immigration judge in 2024.

“Anyone who crosses the red line of assaulting law enforcement will be met with the full force of this Justice Department,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This man — an illegal alien with ties to a foreign terrorist organization — should NEVER have been in our country to begin with, and we will ensure he NEVER walks free in America again.”

Nino-Moncada has been charged with aggravated assault of a federal officer with a deadly or dangerous weapon and depredation of federal property in excess of $1,000. Nino-Moncada is scheduled to make his Initial Appearance today at 1:30 PM PST.

According to the complaint, Border Patrol agents initiated a targeted immigration enforcement operation on a vehicle believed to belong to a female involved in a TdA prostitution ring. The female was sitting in the passenger-side seat of the vehicle at the time of the enforcement operation. This female had previously been arrested by Border Patrol in El Paso, Texas and later failed to report to immigration authorities. According to law enforcement reports, the female is believed to have been involved in a shooting stemming from a bad prostitution deal.

After commanding Nino-Moncada to exit the vehicle, Nino-Moncada is alleged to have placed his vehicle in reverse, colliding with an unoccupied Border Patrol vehicle with enough speed and force to cause significant damage. Nino-Moncada continued the forward and reverse maneuver multiple times, striking the Border Patrol vehicle multiple times. A Border Patrol agent interviewed by FBI special agents described being fearful that Nino-Moncada could strike them and other Border Patrol agents with the target vehicle. After the attack, Nino-Moncada and the female passenger fled the scene in the target vehicle.

Damage to the border patrol vehicle was significant. Serious damage was sustained to the front bumper, resulting in the bumper being torn from the vehicle, both headlights being destroyed, the front driver-side quarter panel being dented, including the fender liner being detached, and the driver side rear-passenger door and quarter panel being dented.

In an interview following the incident, Nino-Moncada admitted to intentionally ramming the Border Patrol vehicle in an attempt to flee and stated that he knew it was an immigration enforcement vehicle.

Español a continuación

Chris McFarland stands outside his office at the Benton Health Center in Corvallis, Ore. McFarland works as a counselor, supporting individuals with serious mental illness through community-based care. (Photo courtesy of Benton County)

 

Chris McFarland’s path to public service was shaped by hardship, resilience and a deep understanding of what it means to live on the margins. 

 

Today, McFarland is a certified alcohol and drug counselor I and qualified mental health professional with the Benton County Health Department, Behavioral Health Division. He serves on the Assertive Community Treatment team, providing intensive, community-based behavioral health and substance use disorder services to individuals with serious mental illness—many of whom are experiencing homelessness and repeated contact with crisis and emergency systems. 

 

The work is demanding and deeply personal. For McFarland, it hits close to home. 

 

Clients allow ACT team members into the most vulnerable parts of their lives, McFarland said, sharing fears, losses and hopes that are often hidden from the rest of the world. He said one of the things he is most proud of is when clients tell him they finally feel heard, respected and treated like a person, not a diagnosis or a case file. Hearing that, he said, is a reminder that showing up consistently and leading with empathy are what truly matters. 

 

McFarland joined the U.S. Army in 1986 as a “homeless 17-year-old high school dropout”, hoping to find direction and stability. With limited options, he served as a light infantry soldier with the 1st Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division. He completed basic and advanced infantry training at Fort Benning, Georgia, and was stationed at Fort Drum, New York which is known for some of the Army’s toughest training conditions.

 

McFarland said it left a lasting impact. 

 

“The military taught me how far I can push myself, physically and mentally,” he said. “It taught me discipline, how to focus, how to take care of the person next to you, and that ‘no’ or ‘I can’t’ isn’t an option when something needs to get done.” 

 

After leaving the Army, McFarland’s life took a difficult turn. He spent more than a decade cycling through homelessness, substance use, incarceration and violence, ultimately serving time in prison from 1997 to 2000. Those experiences, he said, now inform how he approaches his work on the ACT team. 

 

“I’ve lived the chaos that many of our clients are living,” he said. “I know what it’s like to be stigmatized, discarded and forgotten. Those experiences didn’t break me—they shaped me.” 

McFarland initially pursued a degree in psychology, later shifting to public health, believing he did not want to work as a counselor. That changed during an internship at a residential drug and alcohol treatment facility for adolescents. 

 

“That experience changed everything,” he said. “I realized I didn’t just enjoy counseling. I was good at it. More importantly, I realized I could use my lived experience to support people who felt invisible.” 

 

On the ACT team, McFarland works where clients are, be that in shelters, on the street, in hospitals or navigating court and crisis systems. The model emphasizes relationship-based care, harm reduction and long-term engagement. 

 

Meghan Carlson, a qualified mental health professional with the ACT team, said McFarland’s lived experience and openness about his journey have had a lasting impact not only on clients, but on the team itself. 

 

“Chris’s willingness to share his lived experience with us as clinicians has really changed how many of us approach client care,” Carlson said. “He has helped reshape how our ACT team functions, and in my 12 years working with this team, I can honestly say it’s been for the better.” 

 

That impact is reflected in how he works with clients day to day. 

 

“Chris meets people exactly where they are,” said Carlson. “He listens without judgment, shows up consistently and never loses sight of the person behind the diagnosis.” 

 

County Administrator Rachel McEneny, who has spent time in the field observing McFarland as he worked directly with clients, said his approach reflects the values Benton County strives to uphold. 

 

“Spending the day riding along with Chris and his colleagues in the field was a powerful and important experience for me as county administrator,” said McEneny. “Their work takes them everywhere from the correctional facility to city parks, the hospital and the Corvallis Daytime Drop-In Center. The experience underscored the difficulty and complexity of the roles Chris has to juggle. It requires unique skills, compassion and understanding.” 

 

McFarland said working for Benton County feels like a culmination of everything his life has taught him. 

 

“After living so many years in survival mode, being able to serve my community and help people find stability and dignity is incredibly meaningful,” he said. “This work feeds my soul. I honestly believe this is exactly where I’m supposed to be.” 

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De la supervivencia al servicio: Chris McFarland aporta su experiencia personal al equipo ACT del Condado de Benton 

Chris McFarland posa frente a su oficina en el Centro de Salud de Benton en Corvallis, Oregón. McFarland trabaja como consejero, dando apoyo a personas con enfermedades mentales graves a través de servicios de atención comunitaria. (Foto cortesía del Condado de Benton) 

 

La trayectoria de Chris McFarland en el servicio público ha estado marcada por las dificultades, la resiliencia y una profunda comprensión de lo que significa vivir al margen de la sociedad.

 

Actualmente, McFarland es profesional de salud mental y consejero certificado en alcoholismo y drogadicción de nivel I en la División de Salud Mental del Departamento de Salud del Condado de Benton. Forma parte del equipo de Tratamiento Asertivo Comunitario (ACT por sus siglas en inglés), que brinda servicios intensivos de salud mental y tratamiento de trastornos por consumo de sustancias en la comunidad a personas con enfermedades mentales graves, muchas de las cuales se encuentran sin hogar y tienen contacto frecuente con los sistemas de crisis y emergencia. 

El trabajo es exigente y profundamente personal. Para McFarland, definitivamente es algo personal. 

 

Los clientes permiten que los miembros del equipo de ACT conozcan los aspectos más vulnerables de sus vidas, explicó McFarland, compartiendo miedos, pérdidas y esperanzas que a menudo ocultan al resto del mundo. Dijo que una de las cosas que más le enorgullecen es cuando los clientes le dicen que por fin se sienten escuchados, respetados y tratados como personas, no como un diagnóstico o un expediente. Escuchar eso le recuerda que estar presente de forma constante y actuar con empatía es lo que realmente importa para él. 

 

McFarland se enlistó al Ejército de los Estados Unidos en 1986, cuando era “un joven de 17 años sin hogar que había abandonado la escuela preparatoria”, con la esperanza de encontrar rumbo y estabilidad. Con pocas opciones, sirvió como soldado de infantería ligera en el 1er Batallón del 87º Regimiento de Infantería, de la 10ª División de Montaña. Completó el entrenamiento básico y avanzado de infantería en Fort Benning, Georgia y fue destinado a Fort Drum en Nueva York, un lugar conocido por tener algunas de las condiciones de entrenamiento más exigentes del Ejército. 

 

McFarland dijo que esta experiencia le dejó una huella imborrable. 

 

“El ejército me enseñó hasta dónde puedo llegar, física y mentalmente”, dijo. “Me enseñó disciplina, a concentrarme, a cuidar de la persona que está a mi lado y que ‘no’ o ‘no puedo’ no son opciones cuando hay que hacer algo”. 

 

Después de dejar el ejército, la vida de McFarland enfrentó una etapa difícil de su vida. Pasó más de una década por períodos de falta de vivienda, consumo de sustancias, encarcelamiento y violencia y finalmente cumplió condena en prisión de 1997 a 2000. Esas experiencias ahora influyen en la manera en que hace su trabajo en el equipo ACT. 

 

“He vivido el caos que viven muchos de nuestros clientes”, dijo McFarland. “Sé lo que se siente el ser estigmatizado, marginado y olvidado. Esas experiencias no me destruyeron, me moldearon”. 

 

Inicialmente, McFarland estudió psicología, pero luego se cambió a salud pública, creyendo que no quería trabajar como consejero. Eso cambió cuando trabajó como pasante estudiantil en un centro residencial de tratamiento de drogas y alcohol para adolescentes. 

 

“Esa experiencia lo cambió todo”, dijo.“Me di cuenta de que no solo disfrutaba de la consejería, sino que era bueno en ello. Y lo que es más importante, me di cuenta de que podía usar mi experiencia para apoyar a personas que se sentían invisibles”. 

 

En el equipo ACT, McFarland trabaja donde se encuentran los clientes, ya sea en refugios, en la calle, en hospitales o navegando por los sistemas judiciales y de atención de crisis. El modelo enfatiza la atención basada en las relaciones, la reducción de riesgos y el compromiso a largo plazo.

 

Meghan Carlson, profesional de salud mental cualificada del equipo ACT, afirmó que la experiencia personal de McFarland y su franqueza al compartir su historia han tenido un impacto duradero no solo en los clientes, sino también en el propio equipo. 

 

“La disposición de Chris a compartir su experiencia personal con nosotros, los profesionales clínicos, ha cambiado la forma en que muchos de nosotros manejamos la atención al cliente”, dijo Carlson. “Ha contribuido a transformar el funcionamiento de nuestro equipo ACT y en mis 12 años trabajando con este equipo, puedo decir con toda sinceridad que ha sido para mejorar”. 

 

Ese impacto se refleja en la forma en que trabaja con los clientes a diario. 

 

“Chris se relaciona con las personas tal como son”, dijo Carlson. “Escucha sin juzgar, está presente de forma constante y nunca pierde de vista a la persona que hay detrás del diagnóstico”. 

La Administradora del Condado, Rachel McEneny, quien ha pasado tiempo en el campo observando a McFarland mientras trabajaba directamente con los clientes, dijo que su enfoque refleja los valores que el Condado de Benton se esfuerza por mantener. “Pasar el día acompañando a Chris y sus colegas en el campo fue una experiencia poderosa e importante para mí como Administradora del Condado”, dijo McEneny. “Su trabajo los lleva a todas partes, desde la cárcel hasta los parques de la ciudad, el hospital y el Corvallis Daytime Drop-In Center. La experiencia reveló la dificultad y la complejidad de las funciones que Chris debe desempeñar. Se necesitan habilidades únicas, compasión y comprensión”. 

 

McFarland dijo que trabajar para el Condado de Benton se siente como la culminación de todo lo que la vida le ha enseñado. 

 

“Después de vivir tantos años en modo de supervivencia, poder servir a mi comunidad y ayudar a las personas a encontrar estabilidad y dignidad es increíblemente significativo”, dijo. “Este trabajo alimenta mi alma. Sinceramente, creo que este es exactamente el lugar donde debo estar”. 

Health officials warn public about two locations where affected individuals spent time

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and Linn County public health officials are investigating two cases of measles and want people to know about locations where they may have been exposed to the highly infectious virus.

The affected individuals developed measles symptoms—rash, fever, cough and runny nose—on Jan. 5. OHA is not identifying the individuals’ gender, age or county of residence.

People might have been exposed if they were at the following locations during these dates and times:

• Lebanon Community Hospital Emergency Department, between 8:53 p.m. Jan. 6 and 7 a.m. Jan. 7.
• Albany General Hospital Emergency Department, between 4:59 a.m. and 8:15 a.m. Jan. 7.

People who were at these locations during these dates and times should immediately contact their health care provider and let them know they may have been exposed to someone who has measles. The health care provider can determine whether they are immune to measles based on their vaccination record, age, or laboratory evidence of prior infection.

“Measles is here in Oregon and rates are increasing nationally, which is why we encourage everyone to make sure they’re protected by talking with their providers about being up to date on vaccinations,” said Howard Chiou, M.D., Ph.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at OHA’s Public Health Division.

Facts about measles

Measles spreads through the air after a person with measles coughs or sneezes. People are contagious with measles for four days before a rash appears and up to four days afterward. The virus particles also can linger in the air for up to two hours after someone who is infectious has left the area.

Measles typically starts with a fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. A rash usually follows, beginning on the face and spreading to the rest of the body. Symptoms begin seven to 21 days after exposure to a person with measles. Common complications of measles include ear infection, lung infection and diarrhea. Swelling of the brain is a rare but much more serious complication.

Measles can be dangerous, especially among infants and children younger than 5, adults older than 20, pregnant people, and people with weakened immune systems. In developed countries in recent years, one or two out of every 1,000 measles cases has been fatal.

The measles vaccine is highly effective at providing protection, as two doses of the MMR vaccine is 97% effective at preventing measles. The risk of severe disease from measles for people who are up to date on their vaccines is very low.

What to do if you suspect measles in your household

Public health officials urge people experiencing symptoms of measles not to arrive unannounced at a medical office if they:

1. Have a measles-like rash, or
2. Have been exposed to measles within the previous 21 days, and have any other symptom of measles (such as fever, cough or red eyes).

Individuals planning to seek medical care should first call a health care provider or urgent care center by telephone to create an entry plan to avoid exposing others in waiting rooms.

Learn more about measles at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DISEASESCONDITIONS/DISEASESAZ/Pages/measles.aspx.

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PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland woman pleaded guilty yesterday for engaging in sexual contact of an unaccompanied minor under the custody of the Office of Refugee Resettlement.

Teresa Valdovinos-Godinez, 34, pleaded guilty to abusive sexual contact.

According to court documents, between September 12, 2023, and October 8, 2023, Valdovinos-Godinez engaged in abusive sexual contact with an individual in federal custody while she was working as a counselor at Morrison Mi Futuro, a residential facility for unaccompanied minors in Portland.

On August 12, 2025, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment charging Valdovinos-Godinez with abusive sexual contact.

Valdovinos-Godinez faces a maximum sentence of two years in prison, a $250,000 fine and one year of supervised release. She will be sentenced on April 2, 2026, before a U.S. District Court Judge.

As part of the plea agreement, Valdovinos-Godinez has agreed to pay restitution in full to the victim.

The Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kate Rochat and Pamela Paaso are prosecuting the case.

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

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Clackamas County, Ore. (Jan. 9, 2026)- On Thursday, January 8, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 26, near milepost 35, in Clackamas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Ford Escape, operated by Jacob Robert Brugman (29) of Vancouver (WA), was passing a Ford F-250, operated by Gary James Beebe (55) of Prineville, in a passing lane when the F-250 merged into the Escape as it passed. The contact caused the F-250 to lose control, crash through a guardrail, and roll down an embankement into trees. The Escape was able to stop after the vehicular contact.

The operator of the F-250 (Beebe) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Escape and passenger, Kassidy Brugman (27), were reportedly uninjured.

The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Hoodland Fire Department and ODOT.

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in the documentation, investigation, and analysis of complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in the use of advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Clackamas County, Ore. (Jan. 9, 2026)- On Thursday, January 8, 2026, at 12:46 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Interstate 205, near milepost 15, in Clackamas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a northbound Ford Aspire, operated by Jack Jay Lewis (64) of Molalla, left the roadway for unknown reasons, struck an ODOT sign, and rolled. 

The operator for the Ford (Lewis), who was not wearing a seatbelt, was declared deceased at the scene.

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

OSP was assisted by Clackamas County Fire and ODOT.

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in the documentation, investigation, and analysis of complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in the use of advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Bend, Ore. – On January 7, 2026, at 2:58 a.m., deputies with the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of suspicious circumstances at a property near Bowery Lane and Grandview Drive just north of Bend. Upon arrival, the body of Christi Mitchell, 42, was discovered. Deputies contacted Stephen Mitchell, 45, who was still on scene and took him into custody.

Following an initial interview and investigation, Stephen Mitchell was lodged at the Deschutes County Adult Jail and is facing several charges, including Murder in the Second Degree, Physical Tampering with Evidence, Reckless Burning, and Abuse of a Corpse.

The public may notice police presence near Deschutes Memorial Gardens on the north end of Bend as the investigation continues.

The Sheriff’s Office is being assisted by Oregon State Police, Bend Police Department, Redmond Police Department, Prineville Police Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bend Fire Marshal’s Office.

Further inquiries regarding this case should be addressed to the Deschutes County District Attorney’s Office.

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Josephine County, Ore. (Jan. 8, 2026)- On Tuesday, January 7, 2026, at 8:50 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Highway 199, near milepost 10, in Josephine County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a northbound Toyota Tundra, operated by Marisha Lynn Trainor (52) of Eugene, reportedly swerved to miss a deer in the roadway, lost control, and rolled multiple times along the shoulder of the highway. The vehicle came to rest on it's roof.

The operator of the Toyota (Trainor) suffered reported minor injuries and was transported to an area hospital.

A passenger in the Toyota, Teddie Dianne Tibbets (47) of Selma, was declared deceased at the scene.

The highway was impacted for approximately one hour during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by Grants Pass Fire, Rural Metro, and ODOT.

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in the documentation, investigation, and analysis of complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in the use of advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

Lake County, Ore. (Jan. 8, 2026)- On Monday, January 5, 2026, at 4:17 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 140, near milepost 88, in Lake County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a westbound Ford F-250, operated by Destiny Elizabeth Canaday (30) of Bly, lost control and rolled multiple times in the ditch after passing another vehicle. The operator was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected from the vehicle.

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

The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation. Speed and roadway conditions are considered primary factors in the cause of the crash.

OSP was assisted by Thomas Creek Fire, Lake County Sheriff's Office, and ODOT.

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About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit responsible for investigating fatal and critical injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in the documentation, investigation, and analysis of complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in the use of advanced measuring techniques and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) for on-scene investigations. The CRU team includes ACTAR accredited collision reconstructionists and technical collision investigators deployed across the state.

UPDATE: Oregon State Police arrest James Mason Liggett (52) in connection with an explosive device placed in the public restroom at Sunset Beach State Park.

Liggett was wanted in Clatsop County for the following charges:

• Attempted Murder
• Attempted Assault I
• Attempted Assault II
• Arson I
• Possession of a Destructive Device
• Manufacture of a Destructive Device

Liggett was arrested on Sunday, January 4, 2026, in Grants Pass by OSP SWAT, with the assistance of the OSP Explosives unit, and OSP Major Crimes. 

OSP was assisted in the investigation by Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office, Salem Police Department, Oregon Parks Department, Warrenton Fire Department, Astoria Fire Department, Astoria Police Department, and Seaside Police Department.

At this time, additional details are not available for release during the adjudication process.

CLATSOP COUNTY, Ore. (Sept. 16, 2025) – On Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at 10:21 a.m., Oregon State Parks notified the Oregon State Police of a suspicious backpack in a public bathroom at Sunset Beach State Recreation Site in Clatsop County.
 

Oregon State Police located the backpack and requested explosives experts respond and investigate the incident. Bomb technicians from the Oregon State Police and Salem Police Department responded to the scene and rendered the device safe. No injuries were associated with this incident.
 

State Parks and Oregon State Police checked multiple locations throughout the day and did not locate any additional suspicious devices. While this is believed to be an isolated incident, the public should remain vigilant and report any suspicious objects to local law enforcement by calling 911 and remaining at a safe distance from the object.
 

Oregon State Police is asking any person with information related to the incident to contact investigators at OSP (677) or 1 (800) 442-0776 and reference case number SP25406805.

The criminal investigation is ongoing, and no further information is available for release at this time.
 

Oregon State Police were assisted by the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office, Salem Police Department, Oregon Parks Department, Warrenton Fire Department, and Astoria Fire Department.

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About the Oregon State Police

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

EUGENE, Ore.—The owner of three businesses pleaded guilty yesterday for stealing more than $487,386.75 in federal funds intended to help small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Jodi Aliece Jennings, 50, of Junction City, Oregon, pleaded guilty to wire fraud.

According to court documents, between April 2020 and January 2022, Jennings applied for and obtained six Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) loans and one Economic Injury Disaster Loan (“EIDL”) Advance and submitted three fraudulent forgiveness applications for Meridian Redevelopment, J Jenn Enterprises Inc., and J2 Investments. Jennings falsely claimed each company was in business and paid payroll prior to and during the pandemic. Jennings used these loans on personal expenses.

In total, Jennings stole no less than $487,386.75, including the EIDL advance and principal, interest, and SBA paid lender fees on the PPPs.

On June 15, 2023, a federal grand jury in Eugene returned an indictment charging Jennings with nine counts of wire fraud.

Jennings faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. She will be sentenced on April 22, 2026, before a U.S. District Court Judge.

As part of the plea agreement, Jennings has agreed to pay restitution to the SBA.

This case was investigated by the SBA Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon is prosecuting the case.

Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

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Salem, OR— For taxpayers wanting to claim their share of Oregon’s $1.41 billion kicker  as soon as possible, filing electronically has never been more important.

On average, taxpayers who e-file their returns and request their refund via direct deposit receive their refund within two weeks. Those who file paper returns will experience a significantly longer wait in 2026 due to processing delays.

“The good news is that nobody has to wait,” said Megan Denison, administrator of the Personal Tax and Compliance Division at the Department of Revenue. “There’s a simple solution. File electronically.”

Oregon will begin processing electronically-filed returns Monday, January 26, the same day as the IRS.

The department will begin issuing refunds for e-filed returns February 15. For paper filed returns, refunds will not start being issued until early April.

In the closing months of 2025, the IRS was late providing necessary tax forms and information to the Oregon Department of Revenue. As a result, the state’s processing of paper-filed Oregon personal income tax returns can’t begin until the end of March.

Taxpayers may be eager to receive their tax refund this year due to the kicker. Oregon’s unique kicker is a refundable tax credit that either reduces the amount of tax owed or increases the amount of a taxpayer’s refund.

“To get your kicker, you must file a return. This year, if you file a paper return, you’re going to face a significant delay in receiving your refund,” Denison said. “Taxpayers who file electronically can avoid the extra wait.”

Chris Wytoski, manager of the Department of Revenue’s processing center, where paper forms and checks are processed, explained why the delay in receiving forms and information from the IRS will push back paper return processing.

“Using scanners, our front-end system captures the data reported on paper tax returns and checks. It then records the data in a digital format in our core accounting system,” Wytoski said. “We have to tell the system what data to capture and where to find it on each page of the return. Until the federal returns were finalized, we weren’t able to finalize Oregon’s returns and, ultimately, configure our system.”

The result is a delay for Oregon taxpayers filing paper returns this year.

Taxpayers who choose to file a paper return, should be sure to mail it early. Due to changes at the U.S. Postal Service, returns mailed in after April 9 may not receive a postmark on time. Taxpayers who still want to mail their paper returns can take them to a local USPS office and request a postmark no later than April 15, 2026. 

Paper returns can also be physically deposited in drop boxes available on both the east and west sides of the Department of Revenue Building in Salem, or outside the DOR offices in Portland, Eugene, Medford, and Bend. A drop box at DOR’s Gresham office is available during business hours.

The delay in paper return processing will mean that the department won’t be able to tell taxpayers who file paper returns that their return has been received until paper return processing starts at the end of March and their specific return enters processing. That also means information on paper-filed returns won’t be available in the “Where’s My Refund?” tool until that time.

Statewide, electronic filing rates have been steadily increasing in the last decade. In 2016, 86 percent of taxpayers filed electronically. That number edged above 90 percent in 2020 and last year, nearly 95 percent of Oregon personal income tax returns were filed electronically.

The state expects to receive more than 2.2 million Oregon personal income tax returns for tax year 2025, Denison said, and approximately 95 percent are again expected to be filed electronically. That still leaves a significant number of taxpayers who could wind up waiting longer than they’d like for their refund and kicker.

For tax year 2023, nearly 123,000 Oregon personal income tax returns were paper filed. More than 100,000 – or five out of every six paper filers – claimed a refund. Choosing to file electronically this year will help those taxpayers to get their refund sooner.

Denison said Oregon taxpayers have multiple free options to file their state returns electronically.

Now in its third year, Direct File Oregon is an interview-based program similar to commercial software and allows taxpayers the convenience and security of filing directly with the state of Oregon through Revenue Online for free. More than 14,000 taxpayers filed their Oregon personal income tax returns with Direct File Oregon in 2025.

Information about filing electronically, including a list of free tax preparation software products and other ways to get help filing your tax return for free, can be found on the Get Free Help with Your Taxes page of the department’s website.

A full list of approved commercial e-filing software is available on our Electronic filing webpage.

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Note to editors and news directors (not for publication):

Video b-roll of Department of Revenue scanners capturing

information from tax forms is available for download from Vimeo.

January 8, 2025

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

OHA urges screening during Cervical Cancer Awareness Month 

PORTLAND, Ore. – Oregon Health Authority is marking this year’s Cervical Cancer Awareness Month with a reminder that cervical cancer is preventable and treatable, and vaccinations and screenings—including free screenings for people without insurance—protect against this deadly cancer.

OHA encourages people to get screened for cervical cancer, which includes Pap tests and human papillomavirus (HPV) tests that can find precancerous cell changes and detect cervical cancer early.

As many as 93% of cervical cancers could be prevented by cervical cancer screening and HPV vaccination.

When found early, cervical cancer is highly treatable and associated with long survival and good quality of life. But people should get screened for cervical cancer regularly, even if you received an HPV vaccine.

OHA also urges people to get the HPV vaccine. It can prevent new HPV infections, but it does not treat existing infections or diseases.

That’s why the vaccine works best when given before any exposure to HPV. The vaccine is recommended for all people through age 26, including boys and men.

Oregon’s Screenwise Program helps to alleviate the burden cancer can cause and reduce health inequities in Oregon through education, screening, early detection, evidence-based care and access to medical treatment. 

The program offers cervical cancer screening free of charge for people without insurance. OHA urges people to schedule screenings with their providers. People without a provider should call 211 for assistance.    

To learn more about Screenwise, and for more resources, go to the program’s web page, or call 877-255-7070. 

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BOARD ON PUBLIC SAFETY STANDARDS AND TRAINING

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 22, 2026, in the Governor Victor G. Atiyeh Boardroom at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov.

To view the Board's live-stream and other recorded videos, please visit DPSST’s official YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Meeting Minutes

Approve the October 23, 2025, Meeting Minutes

3. Fire Policy Committee

a. Fire Policy Committee Update – Chris Heppel, Chair

b. Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote)

A. Christopher Wade, DPSST No. 30403; Christmas Valley RFPD – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the FPC on November 19, 2025.

4. Criminal Justice Policy Committees

a. Police Policy Committee Update – Scotty Nowning, Chair

b. Telecommunications Policy Committee Update – Michael Fletcher, Chair

c. Corrections Policy Committee Update – Jennifer Cameron, Vice-Chair

d. Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote)

A. Shane Bond, DPSST No. 59946; DOC/Union County Sheriff's Office – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on December 16, 2025.

B. John Deardorff, DPSST No. 42771; DOC/Oregon State Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on November 12, 2025.

C. Mark Farmer, DPSST No. 55203; Multnomah County Sheriff's Office – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on November 20, 2025.

D. Emily Fisk, DPSST No. 61817; DOC/Deer Ridge Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on November 12, 2025.

E. Jesus Gutierrez, Sr., DPSST No. 61908; DOC/Snake River Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on November 12, 2025.

F. Michelle Hubbard, DPSST No. 31820; DOC/Oregon State Correctional Institution – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on November 12, 2025.

G. Erica Hurley, DPSST No. 29900; Portland Police Bureau – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on November 20, 2025.

H. Bonnie Kessell, DPSST No. 46671; Umatilla County Community Corrections – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on November 12, 2025.

I. August Lowthian, DPSST No. 61677; Washington County Sheriff's Office – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the CPC on November 12, 2025.

J. Jonathan McNichols, DPSST No. 60995; Salem Police Department – Revoke

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on November 20, 2025.

K. James McQueen, DPSST No. 55471; Hillsboro Police Department – Revoke

Seven (7) to two (2) vote to recommend to the Board by the PPC on November 20, 2025.

L. Kathleen Williams, DPSST No. 43028; Bureau of Emergency Communications – No Action

Unanimous vote to recommend to the Board by the TPC on August 12, 2025.

M. Committee Appointments

Police Policy Committee

• • Anel Ceric – Non-Management Law Enforcement. Re-appointment to the PPC, 2nd term effective January 25, 2026.
  • Michelle Duncan – Oregon State Sheriffs' Association. Re-appointment to the PPC, 2nd term effective January 25, 2026.
  • Warren Hensman – Oregon Association of Chiefs of Police. Appointment to the PPC, 1st term effective January 22, 2026.

5. Private Security/Investigator Policy Committee

a. Private Security Investigator Policy Committee Update – Dan Lenzen, Chair

b. Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote).

A. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 259-060-0120, 259-060-0135, 259-060-0136, 259-060-0300, 259-060-0310, 259-060-0320, and 259-060-0380

Related to Emergency Suspension

6. DPSST Recommendations (The following items to be ratified by one vote each)

a. Advisory Discussion of Upcoming Changes to the Basic Police Program

b. Approval to Study Implementation of Fee Schedule for Registration to Regional Training Courses

c. Approval to Study Implementation of Fee Schedule for Use of DPSST Facilities

d. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) 259-008-0001

     Recommended Repeal

e. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) 259-030-0005

    Relating to the Authority of the Director of the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training

f. Workgroup/Rules Advisory Committee Request

    Related to Law Enforcement Officer Certification Maintenance Requirements Per OAR 259-008-0065

g. Imposition of Civil Penalties – House Bill 2527

h. Imposition of Civil Penalties – House Bill 2527/Senate Bill 300

7. Agency Updates – Agency Director, Phil Castle 

8. Next Meeting Date: April 23, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.

Administrative Announcement

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