In 1999, the Oregon Legislature passed HB 2977, Mandatory Boater Education, requiring operators of motorboats with engines greater than 10 horsepower and youth 12-15 years of age operating any size motorboat, to take a course on basic boating skill and/or pass an equivalency exam to demonstrate basic boating knowledge. The primary reason for passing the law was to reduce accidents, injuries, deaths, property damage, and conflict on Oregon’s waterways. Oregon was the first state west of the Mississippi to enact an education requirement. Today, there are more than 45 states and U.S. territories that require some form of boating safety education.

Back in 1999, the Oregon Legislature gave the agency three years to implement the program, first offering a home-study and mail-in application option between 2000 and 2003. Then in 2003, the age phase-in began and ended in 2009, when all boaters, regardless of age, had to meet the education requirement.

From the beginning, the Marine Board wanted to have plenty of options for boating safety education by offering internet, in-person classroom, and equivalency exams for boaters to choose from. When the age phase-in began in 2003, there were three approved Internet course providers. The Marine Board also partnered with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, US Power Squadrons (America’s Boating Club), and the Red Cross to offer classroom courses around the state. Additionally, the agency developed its own volunteer instructor program with certified instructors teaching the “Boat Oregon” classroom course. The third option available for boaters included equivalency exams, offered through certified Boat Oregon instructors or county Sheriff’s Offices with approved marine patrol proctors. The three options remain today, and approved internet courses have expanded, including courses in Spanish. Virtual classes are also offered throughout the year in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Of note, when the law was passed in 1999, the accident reporting threshold was set at $500. In 2001, the threshold was increased to $2,000 to reduce the number of reports for minor damage and to align with changes in the cost of boat repairs. This reporting change is evident in a significant drop (in the chart below) in 2001. What’s more, the data below for accidents (incidents) and fatalities includes non-motorized boaters per reporting requirements for the U.S. Coast Guard. Since 2010, paddling in Oregon and across the nation has shown exponential growth. Motorized boating incidents and fatalities have been declining on average over the last 15 years.

The inference can be made based on submitted boating incident reports, indicating whether the boat operator did not have a boating safety education card.

Very little has changed in the Marine Board’s administrative rules for the program in reference to ORS 830.082 for the Mandatory Boating Safety Education Program. The program has been self-supporting through boating education card fees with very little agency administration and does not rely on other funding. In the past 25 years, the price of the lifetime card increased once, from $10 in 2000 to $20 in 2020. Replacement cards increased from $8 in 2000 to $16 in 2020. The increase was due to other rising costs in US mail postage, other supplies, and the card printing itself.

Course options remain the same, although approved internet courses have modernized, giving the student an interactive learning experience. Oregon-specific course content and testing are routinely updated to remain relevant to current national standards or changes in state boating laws. The agency now offers a digital Boat Oregon classroom course manual, also available in Vietnamese, Simple Chinese, Russian, and Spanish.

With the popularity and growth in paddling, the agency encourages people who recreate in kayaks, canoes, rafts, and stand up paddleboards to take advantage of FREE online paddling safety courses. They’re fun, interactive, and outline not only Oregon state boating laws, but also other important tips to reduce accidents out on the water.

Currently, over 439,700 education cards have been issued, and Oregon’s boating safety education program continues to be a model for other states and territories.

The BEC is a lifetime card and must be carried by the operator when the boat is in use. The BEC must be shown to a marine law enforcement officer upon request.

Visit Boat.Oregon.gov to learn more about all things recreational boating.

-End-

Safety tips for coastal beach visitors during rainy season

DOUGLAS COUNTY (23 December 2025) – The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is investigating a report of bull elk that was shot and left to waste on Nov. 22, 2025, the opening day of Tioga Second Season. The bull elk was left in the area of the 8400 line near Bear Creek off Hubbard Creek, Umpqua, in Douglas County.

OSP Fish and Wildlife received a report of someone hearing a gun shot on the foggy opening morning around daylight. The next day, the reporting person was hunting in the same area and located the dead bull. The individual noticed three male subjects – possibly a grandfather, father, and son – walking in the area the bull elk was found. The men were all wearing camouflage clothing and were not carrying firearms. However, the bull elk was not recovered from the clear-cut area.

Fish and Wildlife troopers are asking if anyone shot and lost a bull elk in the area, or knows of someone who did, contact the Turn In Poachers (TIP) line at 800-452-7888 or call OSP (677) from a mobile device. Please refer to case number SP25-479764.

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.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SALEM, Ore. — On Monday, Dec. 22, at 5 p.m., the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) downgraded its Emergency Coordination Center (ECC) activation from Level 3 (Regional Response) to a Level 4 (Steady State) following the recent atmospheric river event that caused widespread flooding and landslides across the state. 

Recovery Efforts Continue Statewide 

 While the ECC has returned to a steady‑state posture, OEM remains fully engaged in recovery operations and is actively monitoring incoming weather and hazards. The ECC stands ready to increase activation levels if conditions change.  

“Oregon communities were hit hard by this storm, and our work is far from over,” said OEM Director of Recovery and Response Andrew Jahier. “We’re continuing to coordinate resources for affected areas, and the State Emergency Coordination Center remains ready to support local jurisdictions and coordination efforts to protect lives, property and the environment.” 

OEM is working closely with local jurisdictions and partners to ensure communities receive the assistance they need and is prepared to reactivate if the approaching high wind event over-extends local response resources. State Recovery Functions are active, and OEM is supporting Long-Term Recovery Groups and Community Organizations Active in Disaster to address disaster-related unmet needs. 

As always, OEM encourages anyone driving this week to check TripCheck.com for road hazards or closures, and to have a full tank of gas and fully stocked emergency car kit. Also, if you encounter a downed powerline, leave it alone and call 911. 

For more information on recovery efforts and disaster assistance, visit Oregon.gov/OEM

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Board of Forestry will meet at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 7. The meeting will be held in the Tillamook Room, Building C, at the Oregon Department of Forestry headquarters, located at 2600 State St. in Salem. The meeting is open to the public and will also be livestreamed on the department’s YouTube channel.

The board’s business agenda includes:

• Oregon Forest Resource Institute presentation values and beliefs survey
• 2025 Forest Practices Operator of the Year awards
• Review of Federal executive orders and update on United States wildland fire service

The full agenda is available on the board’s webpage.

Signing up for live testimony is required. Instructions are available online. Written testimony will also be accepted. Written comments can be submitted before or up to two weeks after the meeting day by mail to the Board Support Office, 2600 State St., Salem, OR 97310 or email to oardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov">boardofforestry@odf.oregon.gov. Please include the appropriate agenda item and topic with the submission.

Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling ODF’s Public Affairs Office at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-945-7200 or by email at estryinformation@odf.oregon.gov">forestryinformation@odf.oregon.gov.

The Oregon Board of Forestry consists of seven citizens nominated by the Governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate. Responsibilities include appointing the State Forester, setting management direction for state-owned forests, adopting rules governing timber harvest and other practices on private forestland, and promoting sustainable management of Oregon’s 30-million-acre forestland base. Read more information about the board.

If you live in one of 19 Oregon counties and lost food bought with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits because of recent storms and power outages, you now have more time to ask for replacement benefits.

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) has extended the deadline to 30 days for people whose food was lost or spoiled due to power outages Dec. 17, 2025.

Households in the counties listed below have until Jan. 16, 2026, to report food losses and request replacement SNAP benefits.

Counties included in the extended deadline:

• Benton
• Clackamas
• Clatsop
• Columbia
• Coos
• Douglas
• Hood River
• Jefferson
• Klamath
• Lane
• Lincoln
• Linn
• Marion
• Multnomah
• Polk
• Tillamook
• Wallowa
• Washington
• Yamhill

What if I live in another county?

If you live outside these counties, the usual rule still applies.
You must report food losses within 10 days of the incident. ODHS may ask for proof.

How to request SNAP replacement benefits

If your food was lost because of the storms or power outages, you can request replacement benefits in any of these ways:

• Calling 800-699-9075, relay calls welcome
• Filling out a request form and emailing it to egon.benefits@odhsoha.oregon.gov">oregon.benefits@odhsoha.oregon.gov
• Visiting a local ODHS office
• By mail:
  ONE Customer Service Center
  PO Box 14015
  Salem, OR 97309
  (Mail must arrive by the deadline.)
• Online: Log in to your ONE Online account

Once approved, replacement benefits are added to the household’s existing Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. The maximum replacement amount is the cost of the food lost, not to exceed the household's normal monthly SNAP benefit.

Resources to help meet basic needs

• Find a food pantry: Visit oregonfoodbank.org
• Learn about government programs and community resources for older adults and people with disabilities: Call 1-855-673-2372 or visit adrcoforegon.org.
• Find more resources near you: Dial 211, text your zip code to 898-211, or visit 211info.org

When does the extended deadline end?

The extended deadline ends Jan. 16, 2026.
After that date, the 10-day reporting rule will apply again.

Administered by ODHS, SNAP is a federal program that provides food assistance to approximately 1 in 5 eligible, low-income families and individuals in Oregon, including many older adults and people with disabilities. Individuals in need can apply for benefits, including SNAP, child care, cash assistance and Medicaid. Learn more at benefits.oregon.gov

SALEM, Ore. — Retired U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. Cecil Owens has been appointed Oregon’s new state chair for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense program that helps strengthen relationships between the Guard and Reserve members and their civilian employers.

The ESGR program was established in 1972 to promote cooperation and understanding between service members and employers, educate employers about their responsibilities under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act, and recognize workplaces that support military employees.

Oregon is home to about 8,100 Guard and Reserve members. These Citizen-Soldiers and Airmen regularly deploy overseas and are also activated at home to support a variety of missions, including disaster response.
 

As state chair, Owens will lead a statewide team of volunteers focused on employer outreach, awards, and education programs. The position is the highest volunteer leadership role for ESGR in Oregon and is appointed by the Secretary of Defense.

“After 30 years of military service, ESGR gives me the chance to continue serving Soldiers and Airmen by ensuring they have strong support from their employers,” Owens said. “Supportive employers are essential to readiness and to the well-being of our service members and their families.”

Owens currently serves as director of the Oregon National Guard State ESGR Committee. He has also held leadership roles at both the state and national levels within ESGR.
 

ESGR relies on trained volunteers to help employers and service members navigate military service obligations and workplace responsibilities, resolve conflicts, and highlight employers who go above and beyond in supporting the Guard and Reserve. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Cecil Owens to this vital leadership role,” said John Sampa, national chair for ESGR. “His dedication and experience will be a tremendous asset as we continue to support our nation’s dedicated service members and their civilian employers.”

------------------------------------------

More information about ESGR and employer support resources is available at www.esgr.mil. A video interview with Owens is available at: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/976045/oregon-esgr-honors-cunningham-welcomes-
owens-new-state-chair

-30-

Released Images: 

251110-A-ZJ128-5833.jpg: Oregon Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve State Chair Cecil Owens (left) pauses for a photo with Benton County commissioners and the Benton County sheriff at the Kalapuya Building in Corvallis, Ore., Nov. 10, 2025. (Oregon National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne)

251110-A-ZJ128-6880.jpg: Oregon Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve State Chair Cecil Owens (left) pauses for a photo with Sgt. 1st Class Cory Grogan (center) and Col. Paul Dyer, commander of the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, at the Kalapuya Building in Corvallis, Ore., Nov. 10, 2025. The group gathered after Owens and Dyer presented Benton County Government, Grogan’s employer, with the ESGR Seven Seals Award. (Oregon National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne)

251101-A-FS713-7026: Oregon Employer Support Guard & Reserve Chair Cecil Owens (Oregon National Guard photo by Oregon Army National Guard Sgt. 1st Class Cory Grogan)

On Monday, December 22, 2025, at approximately 10:20 a.m., a fire occurred in the Oregon Corrections Enterprises (OCE) Furniture Factory at Oregon State Penitentiary (OSP). The OCE building was immediately evacuated.

The fire was discovered when smoke was observed near the sawdust collector inside the building. The fire extended into the hopper located outside the building. OSP staff responded using fire extinguishers and contacted emergency services. The Salem Fire Department responded and successfully extinguished the fire. Fire personnel tested the air, conducted thermal imaging, and subsequently released the building back to OSP.

All OCE shops to include Call Center, Laundry, Metal Shop, and Furniture Factory were shut down as a precautionary measure and will resume operations Tuesday morning at 6:00 a.m. No injuries were reported.

OSP is a multi-custody prison located in Salem. Additional information about the Oregon Department of Corrections can be found at www.oregon.gov/doc.

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PR 17-25                                                           

BONNEVILLE POWER ADMINISTRATION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, Dec. 22, 2025
CONTACT: Kevin Wingert, 971-207-8390 or 503-230-5131

BPA set to provide low cost, reliable power for another two decades
More than 130 customer utilities in the Pacific Northwest signed long-term power contracts that enable continued growth and investment in the federal power and transmission systems

Portland, Ore. – Signed, sealed, delivered: Two more decades of reliable and low-cost power for the Pacific Northwest.

After several years of intense effort and collaboration under the Provider of Choice initiative, the Bonneville Power Administration executed new long-term wholesale electric power contracts with more than 130 Northwest public utility customers this fall.

“This is a watershed moment for BPA and our ratepayers,” said John Hairston, the agency’s administrator and CEO. “With these contracts in hand, we have the continuity and certainty necessary to continue building and expanding the value of the federal power and transmission systems that deliver vital, low-cost and reliable electricity to millions of residential, commercial and industrial consumers and serves as a cornerstone of the Pacific Northwest’s economy.”

These contracts provide BPA’s power customers with cost and rate stability, while providing a sturdy financial base for Bonneville as it works to ensure the region is ready to meet the increasing energy demands in the near term and the future.

With the Provider of Choice contracts signed, BPA is entering into a three-year implementation period to put the mechanisms in place to begin power sales in October 2028. The new 16-year power purchase agreements build upon the success of the Regional Dialogue contracts set to close in September 2028. The Regional Dialogue contracts created a foundation for stable, competitively priced and flexible power sales. BPA’s new long-term power contracts will continue to support regional economic stability and ensure public access to low-cost federal power. 

“As a commercial entity, BPA must re-earn its customers’ business each contract cycle to fulfill its mission and recover costs,” said Kim Thompson, vice president for Northwest Requirements Marketing. “My team approached Provider of Choice as a collaborative effort with customers, working hard to balance their needs and desires with sound business principles as well as preserve inter-customer equity. At times, it was challenging work, but I am so proud of BPA’s team and our customers for the success we achieved together.”

BPA began the Provider of Choice contract policy process in 2021 and spent four years engaging with customers and other regional stakeholders on policy and contract language. For the rate period beginning in October 2028, BPA will use the newly adopted Public Rate Design Methodology to establish rates under the forthcoming BP-29 Rate Case expected to launch in fall 2027.

Beyond Provider of Choice, BPA is working on several fronts to prepare for the region’s growing energy demand:

Columbia Generating Station uprate: BPA is working with Washington State’s Energy Northwest to improve the power output of the Columbia Generating Station, a nuclear power plant near Hanford, Washington. Once complete, the improvements will result in an additional plant output of roughly 160 megawatts by 2031 – enough energy to power approximately 125,000 homes.

Incremental hydropower increases: Alongside operating partners at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Bureau of Reclamation, BPA will continue to invest in the reliability, efficiency and capacity of the Federal Columbia River Power System. Investments in seven of the projects through 2050 will provide up to 330 average megawatts of additional energy for Bonneville customers and the region. These enhancements include high-efficiency turbine runners with improved fish passage designs, generator rewinds, and the installation of two new turbines.

Grid Access Transformation: BPA is working to streamline processes that allow power producers quicker access to the grid so they can get their energy to market faster. At the same time, BPA is working to shorten its construction time of new transmission lines from project design to completion. Over the next decade, the agency is investing up to $25 billion in transmission projects and reinforcements across the Northwest.

About BPA: BPA is a federal non-profit power marketing administration that delivers reliable, affordable and carbon-free hydropower produced in the Columbia River Basin to communities across the Northwest. BPA also owns and operates more than 15,000 circuit miles of high-voltage transmission lines and administers one of the largest, most comprehensive fish and wildlife conservation programs in the United States. More information about these and other activities is available on our Media Relations page.

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Bend, Ore. — As the holiday season arrives and winter weather settles in across Central Oregon, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is joining the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign. Drivers will see increased patrols on local roads through New Year’s Eve as part of a nationwide effort to prevent impaired driving and keep communities safe.

Drunk driving is illegal, dangerous, and especially risky during the winter months when road conditions can already be hazardous. With holiday gatherings and celebrations underway, Deschutes County Sheriff’s deputies will be out to ensure drivers are making safe choices behind the wheel.

“We want everyone in Deschutes County to enjoy a safe and joyful holiday season,” said Sheriff Ty Rupert. “That means planning ahead, driving sober, and looking out for one another. Our deputies will be increasing patrols to help prevent tragedies before they happen.”

Why It Matters

• Even one drink can impair your ability to drive safely
• A DUI can cost you $10,000 or more in fines, legal fees, and lost wages
• Alcohol-related crashes cost the U.S. $57 billion annually
• You could lose your license, your vehicle, and even your job
• You risk taking the lives of others and even yourself

Plan Ahead This Holiday Season

• Drive 100% sober. Even one drink is too many
• Designate a sober driver before you start celebrating
• Use a taxi, rideshare, or public transit to get home safely
• Report drunk drivers to law enforcement
• Stop friends from driving impaired — take their keys and help them get home safely

Let’s make this season one to remember for all the right reasons. For more information on impaired driving prevention, visit www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving.

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JOSEPHINE COUNTY, Ore. (22 Dec. 2025) – On Friday, December 19, 2025, at 11:45 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash on Interstate 5 near milepost 70 in Josephine County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a red GMC Jimmy, operated by Jimmy Warren Stanley (82) of Dunsmuir (CA), was traveling northbound on I-5 when it veered off the roadway for an unknown reason onto the gravel shoulder. The vehicle rolled over, and the operator was ejected from the vehicle.

The operator (Stanley) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

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

OSP was assisted by Rural Metro Fire, American Medical Response (AMR) ambulance service, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
 

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit that investigates fatal and critical-injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using 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. (22 Dec. 2025) – On Sunday, December 21, 2025, at 9:55 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a three-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 97 near milepost 181 in Klamath County.

The preliminary investigation indicated that a gold Chevrolet Silverado, operated by Cindy Rose Pearce (59) of Bend, was traveling southbound on Hwy. 97 when it crossed into the northbound lane after the operator lost control due to icy roadway conditions. The Silverado collided head-on with a northbound black Toyota Tacoma, operated by Kristara Leah Lopez (47) of Coos Bay, and then struck a blue Dodge Ram towing a small trailer, operated by Carl Michael Kelley (68) of Oakridge.
 

The operator of the Toyota Tacoma (Lopez) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The Toyota’s passenger, Gilberto Paez Lopez (59) of Coos Bay, was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.
 

The operator of the Chevrolet Silverado (Pearce) was transported to an area hospital with minor injuries.
 

The operator of the Dodge Ram (Kelley) and passenger, Terri Louise Kelley (59) of Oakridge, were transported to an area hospital with minor injuries.
 

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

OSP was assisted by the Crescent Fire District and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit that investigates fatal and critical-injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using 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.

Coverage, savings, peace of mind: Oregon encourages health plan enrollment for 2026

The annual donation will help fund programs supporting the health and education of children and vulnerable families across Oregon and southwest Washington      

PORTLAND, Ore. — OnPoint Community Credit Union and its employees donated $66,253 this year to four United Way chapters serving Oregon and southwest Washington. This contribution marks OnPoint’s 19^th annual employee-led fundraising campaign, benefiting United Way in communities the credit union serves. Employees raised $51,253 through creative fundraisers, which OnPoint matched with an additional $15,000 corporate donation.

“Partnerships like this reflect the power of what we can accomplish for our communities together,” said Rob Stuart, president and chief executive officer, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “Our team is proud to support United Way’s efforts to expand education, health and family support programs throughout Oregon and southwest Washington.”

The campaign invited OnPoint’s more than 1,200 employees to make voluntary individual contributions to United Way through fundraisers such as prize drawings, vacation raffles, and Candy Grams. The donation will help fund health and education programs that provide kids and families with equitable opportunities to build a good quality of life. Examples include:

• United Way of the Columbia-Willamette’s Early Learning Hubs and other educational initiatives, connect parents and caregivers to free or low-cost preschool for their children, plus access to parenting workshops and classes.
• United Way of Linn, Benton and Lincoln Counties’ Linn Can, promotes the safety and well-being of Linn County’s children by raising public awareness about the effects of abuse and neglect.
• United Way of Central Oregon’s KIDS Center, provides no-cost evaluations, family support and therapy to victims of child abuse.
• United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley’s Enrichment Academy, is a before- and after-school program designed to increase student achievement, improve student and family engagement, reduce hunger, and increase wellness.

“We appreciate OnPoint’s continued commitment to our communities,” said Kelly O’Lague, president and CEO of United Way of the Columbia-Willamette. “Their support helps us provide reliable services that make a meaningful difference for families across the region.”

The United Way donation follows another impactful year for OnPoint’s annual giving program, donating more than $4 million to 357 nonprofits in Oregon and southwest Washington in 2025. Learn more about OnPoint’s work to address the most critical needs in the communities it serves.

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 About Onpoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in Oregon, serving more than 631,000 members throughout Oregon and southwest Washington. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and who lives, works, worships, or attends school in one of four Washington counties (Clark, Cowlitz, Lewis, and Skamania), and their immediate family members. OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at onpointcu.com.

About United Way of the Columbia-Willamette
For over 100 years, United Way of the Columbia-Willamette has helped meet the needs of vulnerable families in our region. As part of the United Way Worldwide network, the largest privately funded non-profit in the world, United Way of the Columbia-Willamette is uniquely positioned to connect and support the people, non-profits, businesses and government agencies working hard to address poverty in our region. United Way brings people together to build strong, equitable communities where everyone can thrive. As one of the world's largest privately funded charities, it serves 95% of U.S. communities and 37 countries and territories -- making life better for 48 million people every year. Through United Way, communities tackle tough challenges and work with private, public, and non-profit partners to boost education, economic mobility, and health resources. United Way is the mission of choice for 1.5 million volunteers, 6.8 million donors, and 45,000 corporate partners in more than 1,100 communities worldwide.

SALEM, Oregon— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking public feedback on proposed rules governing unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) takeoff and landing in Oregon’s state parks and along the ocean shore.

The proposed rules establish where and how UAS may take off and land on state park property, to balance recreational opportunities with protection of natural, cultural, scenic and recreational resources.

Public comments on the proposed rule changes will be accepted beginning January 1, 2026 at 8:00 a.m. and can be submitted:

• Online:
  • https://www-auth.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/Pages/PRP-Rule-2025-Drones-Take-off-and-Landing.aspx
• By email:
  • D.PublicComment@oprd.oregon.gov">OPRD.PublicComment@oprd.oregon.gov
• By mail:
  • Oregon Parks and Recreations Department
    Attn: Robert Ellison
    725 Summer St. NE, Suite C
    Salem, OR 97301

A public hearing will be held to allow members of the public to provide testimony.

• Virtual hearing
  January 20, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.

Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_X3ChSlJkTE-Y3FRh3WIy-Q

The draft rules focus on regulating takeoff and landing locations, which are within the department’s authority, while recognizing that UAS flight is regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Under the proposal, UAS use would generally be limited to designated areas for drone operations, with additional requirements for commercial or research purposes.

The proposed rules were developed in response to Senate Bill 109 (2021), which directed OPRD to create a regulatory framework that provides recreational UAS access while protecting sensitive park resources and minimizing conflicts with other visitors.

OPRD convened a Rule Advisory Committee made up of recreation user groups, conservation organizations, natural resource specialists, commercial operators and other stakeholders. The committee reviewed draft rules and provided recommendations that helped shape the proposal now open for public comment.

Once the public comment period closes, OPRD staff will review all feedback, revise the draft rules as appropriate, and present a final proposal to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission for consideration later in 2026.

If adopted, the rules would be implemented in phases, allowing the department to adapt management strategies over time, based on resource conditions, visitor use and operational experience.

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UPDATE: The suspects in this case have been identified. No further tips are needed at this time. 

Trail Camera Video

Linn County, Ore. (19 Dec. 2025) – The Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Division is asking for the public’s help to identify the persons involved in the unlawful take of an antlerless deer and trespassing near Sweet Home.  

On Dec. 10, 2025, Fish and Wildlife troopers responded to a report of a hunter dragging a deer on private property near Scott Mountain Road. Trail camera video obtained by investigating troopers shows two male subjects dragging the deer.
 

Anyone with information identifying the subjects is encouraged to contact the Turn In Poachers (TIP) line at 1-800-452-7888, call OSP (677) from a mobile phone, or email TIP@osp.oregon.gov. Please reference case number SP25-495415.

Report Wildlife and Habitat Law Violators

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

The TIP program offers preference point rewards for information that leads to an arrest or 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 that leads to an arrest or 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 a 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.

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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. 

Salem, Ore. (Dec. 19, 2025) – The Oregon State Police Salem Patrol Office is asking for the public’s help to identify the suspect who stole a side-by-side vehicle and multiple items from the Oregon School for the Deaf in Salem. The stolen property is valued at approximately $50,000.

On Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025, at approximately 2:30 a.m., a male suspect entered the property and climbed through a building window. The suspect placed items on a side-by-side vehicle and then drove off the property with the stolen items.

The suspect is described as a white male adult in his mid-30s, between 5 ft. 7 in. and 6 ft. tall, weighing approximately 180 to 225 pounds. He has red facial hair and was wearing an orange sweatshirt, green sweatpants with “UO Oregon” on the left leg, and a brown hat.

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 SP25-504177.

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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. 

YAMHILL COUNTY, Ore. (19 Dec. 2025) – On Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 4:44 a.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 99W near milepost 30.5 in Yamhill County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a silver Toyota Camry, operated by Jackie Sue Williams (33) of Dundee, was traveling northbound on Hwy. 99W, passing multiple vehicles. The operator (Williams) lost control of the vehicle, which left the roadway on the right side. The Camry struck several trees before it came to an uncontrolled rest.

The operator (Williams) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The vehicle’s passenger, Skyler Wayne Goodwin (29) of Waldport, was also pronounced deceased at the scene.

The highway was impacted for approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes during the on-scene investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office, Newberg-Dundee Police Department, Amity Fire Department, Lafayette Fire Department, McMinnville Fire Department, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

 

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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 that investigates fatal and critical-injury collisions on Oregon’s highways. The team provides expertise in documenting, investigating, and analyzing complex motor vehicle crashes and crime scenes. They receive specialized training in using 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.

MEDIA AVAILABILITY: Aurora Lake, a critical care nurse practitioner and ONA member who is 8 months pregnant, will be available for interviews at 11:30 a.m. Dec. 19 at the strike line outside Legacy Emanuel Medical Center.

(Portland, Ore.) — Legacy Health is escalating its intimidation campaign against frontline healthcare workers by threatening to terminate health insurance for striking advanced practice providers (APPs) effective January 1, 2026. This retaliatory move—announced just six days before Christmas—puts caregivers and their families at risk and exposes the extreme measures Legacy executives are willing to take to put profits over patients and workers.

For many APPs, the consequences are immediate and severe. Among those affected are pregnant clinicians who rely on continuous healthcare coverage during one of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. 

Aurora Lake, a critical care nurse practitioner who is 8 months pregnant, had this to say: “Legacy does not have to do this, they are choosing to do this. They are choosing to threaten their caregivers, choosing to threaten our families, and even choosing to threaten pregnant employees like me.”

Stripping healthcare from striking workers is a familiar strike-busting tactic—and a particularly cruel one. Legacy’s threat comes as APPs continue to advocate for conditions that allow them to provide safe, ethical, and sustainable care to the community.

“I am eight months pregnant and preparing to bring a child into the world,” Lake continued. “Legacy knows exactly what they’re doing. They are threatening to take away my healthcare at the very moment I need it most—not because they have to, but because they want to scare us. This decision was made by the highest-paid employees at Legacy and no healthcare system that claims to value patients would ever treat caregivers this way—especially someone who could give birth at any moment.”

Legacy’s stated mission is to provide “good health for our people.” It also frequently touts its commitment to “people-centered care” and celebrates its clinicians in public-facing marketing. Yet behind closed doors, decisions are being made by the highest-paid executives to punish the very workers who make patient care possible.

This intimidation tactic is the result of Legacy’s own choices and will likely damage the relationship between frontline caregivers and management long after the strike ends. It will not have the effect Legacy intends. Frontline providers remain united in their commitment to bargain in good faith and secure a fair contract, and in our demand for respect, fair treatment, and a healthcare system that puts patients and caregivers before profits.

Aurora Lake will be available for interviews at 11:30 a.m. at the Legacy Emanuel strike line.

Update on Mediation
Mediation on Thursday, December 18, did not result in any agreement, as Legacy management continues to play games at the bargaining table rather than engage in meaningful negotiations. Despite repeated efforts by ONA APPs to move talks forward and bargain around the clock, Legacy has failed to demonstrate good faith or a genuine commitment to resolving this dispute—delaying progress while escalating pressure tactics outside the mediation room.

The next mediation session is scheduled for Monday, December 22, when APPs once again hope Legacy will abandon delay tactics and come prepared to negotiate seriously.

In response to Legacy’s continued delays and threats against striking workers, solidarity among caregivers is growing. Approximately 80 APPs from Legacy GoHealth and Legacy Pediatrics will be joining the picket lines for solidarity strikes from Sunday, December 20 through Tuesday, December 22. Their participation underscores the deep concern across Legacy facilities about management’s approach and the shared commitment among caregivers to fight for safe, ethical, and sustainable healthcare.

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An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Wesley Leon Williams, died the afternoon of December 18, 2025. Williams was incarcerated at Oregon State Penitentiary (OSP) in Salem and passed away in the infirmary while on hospice care. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified.

Williams entered DOC custody on May 1, 2023, from Yamhill County with an earliest release date of December 13, 2027. Williams was 78 years old. Next of kin has been notified.

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

OSP is a multi-custody prison located in Salem. Additional information about the Oregon Department of Corrections can be found at www.oregon.gov/doc.

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The Oregon Bankers Association (OBA) is proud to announce that Jeff Bailey, president and CEO of Bank of Eastern Oregon in Heppner, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Frank E. Brawner Advocacy Award. The prestigious honor, which recognizes exceptional leadership and dedication to industry advocacy, was presented to Bailey during a banking industry event held Dec. 11 in Portland.

Named in honor of the late Frank E. Brawner, who served as OBA’s CEO from 1977 to 1997, the Advocacy Award celebrates individuals who exemplify Brawner’s legacy as a fierce, effective, and passionate champion for the banking industry. Jeff Bailey embodies these qualities and has distinguished himself as one of Oregon banking’s most trusted and respected advocates.

Bailey is the first two-time recipient of the Frank E. Brawner Advocacy Award, having previously received the honor in 2018. Whether meeting with legislators in his home region of Morrow County, traveling to Salem to testify before legislative committees, or advocating on behalf of Oregon banks in Washington, D.C., Bailey consistently answers the call. He has participated in multiple OBA advocacy trips to meet with Oregon’s congressional delegation and federal regulators, addressing issues ranging from regulatory reform to policies that encourage de novo, or new bank, formation. Bailey also demonstrates his commitment through leadership-level support of OBA’s political advocacy efforts, both personally and through his bank.

A native of Enterprise and a graduate of Eastern Oregon University, Bailey began his banking career with Bank of Eastern Oregon as a commercial loan officer in Gilliam County. Over nearly 30 years with the bank, he has held a variety of leadership roles, including chief credit officer from 2003 to 2009. He was named president in 2008 and assumed the role of CEO the following year.

Bailey is equally recognized for his service to the broader banking industry and to his community. He is a past chair of both the Oregon Bankers Association and the Community Banks of Oregon and currently serves on the OBA board as well as on the board of OBA’s wholly owned subsidiary, Synergy by Association. In 2021, he was inducted into the Oregon Bankers Hall of Fame, the highest peer-bestowed honor in the industry. In Eastern Oregon, Bailey remains deeply involved in civic and economic development efforts, including the Willow Creek Valley Economic Development Group, the Heppner Chamber of Commerce, and numerous nonprofit organizations.

“Jeff brings common sense, integrity, and sincerity to conversations with policymakers, even when those conversations are difficult but necessary,” said OBA Senior Vice President and Government Affairs Director Kevin Christiansen. “He never shies away from standing up for our industry or making sure our voice is heard.”

Established in 2015, the Frank E. Brawner Advocacy Award honors bankers who demonstrate extraordinary support for OBA’s advocacy efforts and a deep commitment to protecting the future of the industry. With this recognition, Jeff Bailey joins a distinguished group of recipients and further cements his legacy as a leading advocate for Oregon banking.

MEDFORD, Ore.— Four Mexican nationals unlawfully residing in the United States made their initial appearance today after allegedly making false statements on their application to purchase firearms and for illegally possessing firearms.

Samuel Rodrigo Melo Santos, 27, Samuel Amador Ortega, 23, Aldo Melo Amador, 23, and Oscar Amador Ortega, 21, have been charged by criminal complaint with alien in possession of a firearm and making false statements on ATF Form 4473.

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

As of July 22, 2025, O. Amador Ortega, has purchased 25 firearms from the FFL in Cave Junction and two other FFLs located in Southern Oregon. Since April 4, 2025, S. Amador Ortega has purchased a total of 16 firearms from this FFL. Melo Amador began purchasing firearms from the FFL in March 2024 and his last purchase was on June 14, 2025. In total, Melo Amador purchased 36 firearms from this FFL, and five other firearms from two other FFLs located in Medford. Since May 2024, Melo Santos has purchased 91 firearms from this FFL.

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

Melo Santos, S. Amador Ortega, Melo Amador, and O. Amador Ortega made their first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. They were ordered detained pending further court proceedings.

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

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

# # #

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Dec. 18, 2025 

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) has expanded statewide flood response capabilities with the distribution of five additional high-capacity sandbagging machines through the State Preparedness and Incident Response Equipment (SPIRE) program. 

With this latest round of SPIRE investments, Oregon now has seven sandbagging machines strategically located across the state, strengthening local and regional capacity to respond quickly to flooding and other water-related emergencies. 

The new recipients include: 

• Malheur County Emergency Management 
• Harney County Emergency Management 
• Crook County Sheriff’s Office 
• North Bend Fire Department 
• City of Portland 

Harney County previously borrowed a sandbagging machine during the 2025 floods. Through this SPIRE allocation, the county now has a machine of its own, improving readiness ahead of future high-water events. 
 

High-Capacity, Mobile Flood Mitigation Equipment 

The machines distributed through SPIRE are Sandbagger Model II units with motorized augers, designed for rapid, large-scale sandbag production during emergencies. 

Each unit: 

• Fills four sandbags simultaneously 
• Can produce up to 1,600 sandbags per hour 
• Requires four people to fill bags and one operator to maintain the hopper using a front-end loader 
• Is lightweight and truck-portable, but comes with a trailer for easier deployment 
• Features a hydraulic, bi-directional auger and agitator to keep wet materials flowing 
• Includes four filling stations, safety grid and shield, auger and agitator, gas engine, and hydraulic motor 
• Is manufactured in the United States 

The sandbagging machines were purchased directly from the manufacturer and OEM partnered with the State of Oregon State and Federal Surplus Property warehouse for delivery, ensuring safe unloading and efficient distribution to local jurisdictions. 

Active Coordination and Pre-Positioning Underway 

In addition to expanding inventory, OEM and local partners are actively coordinating equipment movement to support current and potential flood operations across the state.

The Baker County/Halfway sandbagging machine is being deployed to Hood River County to support ongoing flooding operations. To maintain readiness in Eastern Oregon, Malheur County is moving its SPIRE-funded sandbagging machine to Baker County to stage, ensuring capacity remains available should additional resources be needed or units require movement west.

“Pre-positioning resources before impacts occur is one of the most effective ways to protect lives and property,” said Tabetha Daugherty, Eastern Regional Coordinator for Preparedness and Response at the Oregon Department of Emergency Management. “By coordinating equipment movement across regions, we’re ensuring communities have access to critical tools when and where they’re needed most.” 

This coordinated staging demonstrates how SPIRE equipment supports real-time operational needs while maintaining regional coverage. 

“From day one, jurisdictions have been stepping up to help each other — sharing equipment, staff, and expertise,” Malheur County Emergency Manager Rich Harriman, said. “That collaboration is critical when conditions are changing quickly, and communities are facing rising water.” 
 
Partner Engagement and Demonstration 

OEM highlighted the sandbagging machines at a recent Oregon Emergency Response System (OERS) Council meeting on November 20th, giving partners an opportunity to view the equipment, discuss regional coordination, and plan for mutual aid use during flood and severe weather events. 

SPIRE investments are designed to enhance life safety, protect property, and support coordinated response efforts across Oregon. 

For more information about SPIRE or emergency preparedness in Oregon, visit Oregon.gov/OEM. 

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

Tyler Shoop, age 15, is a child who went missing from went missing from Clackamas on Dec. 10. He was found Dec. 17.

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

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

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December 18, 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 

Tips for a safer holiday season

PORTLAND, Ore. - The holidays can be a challenging time for people with substance use disorders. Here are some tips to make the season safer and brighter:

• Plan ahead: Prepare for potential triggers. Schedule healthy activities and avoid social situations that may lead to substance use.  
• Set boundaries: Practice declining substances with a trusted friend. Plan to be around safe and sober friends to avoid unwanted offers of substances.
• Stay connected: Maintain connections with support groups or support people during the holiday season.
• Engage in self-care: Prioritize mental health and well-being. Plan activities that promote relaxation and stress relief.
• Be prepared: Be familiar with your recovery plan and have a backup plan to handle any challenging situations that may arise.

Remember you are not alone - help is available.

Reach out for support:

• 988 Oregon: Call or text 988 or chat online at 988lifeline.org
• Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988 (press 1) or text 838255: Call 800-923-4357
• Alcohol and Drug Helpline: Call 800-923-4357
• SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
• FindSupport.gov
• FindTreatment.gov

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December 18, 2025

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

Recreational use advisory lifted for Brownlee Reservoir

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

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Brownlee Reservoir in Baker County.

OHA issued the advisory Aug 8.

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

OHA advises recreational visitors to continually be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms. This is because blooms can develop and disappear on any water body at any time when bloom conditions are favorable.

Only a fraction of water bodies in Oregon are monitored for blooms and toxins, so it’s important for people to become familiar with signs of a bloom, exposures and symptoms by visiting OHA’s Cyanobacteria (Harmful Algae) Blooms website at http://www.healthoregon.org/hab.

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

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

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

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   

Media hotline: 503-813-6018 

Pacific Power is prepared to respond to weather-related outages ahead of forecast storms

PORTLAND, Ore., (Dec. 18, 2025) — Pacific Power is monitoring stormy weather for parts of Oregon and Washington in the coming days. The forecast indicates the potential for gusty winds and heavy rain, which could cause power outages.   

Pacific Power’s meteorology team is closely monitoring the approaching storms and crews are ready to respond to any weather-related outages.  

Pacific Power encourages customers to always be prepared for outages and supports state and local emergency management organizations, who recommend Oregonians have an emergency plan for up to 72 hours without essential services.  

Here are some simple steps customers can take to prepare and stay informed:    

• Update your contact information so we can reach you.  
• Sign up to receive outage alerts by text, email or phone.  
• Restock your outage kit.  
• Keep mobile devices charged so that they may be used in an emergency.  
• Track outages, update contact info and do more with our free app.  
• Text OUT to 722797 to report your outage or STAT to check status.   

Visit PacificPower.net/Outages for restoration estimates.  

As a reminder, stay away from all downed power lines and utility lines. Even if the lines are not sparking, they could be energized and extremely dangerous. Customers should avoid both downed trees and powerlines as well as keep pets far away from those areas.   

Call 911 and report the outage to Pacific Power at 1-877-508-5088.   

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About Pacific Power 

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

An Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) adult in custody, Shawn Hamilton died the morning of December 18, 2025. Hamilton was incarcerated at Eastern Oregon Correctional Institution (EOCI) in Pendleton and passed away in a local hospital. As with all in-custody deaths, the Oregon State Police have been notified, and the State Medical Examiner will determine cause of death. 

Hamilton entered DOC custody on June 26, 2023, from Multnomah County with an earliest release date of January 4, 2030. Hamilton was 57 years old.

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

EOCI is a medium custody prison located in Pendleton. Additional information about the Oregon Department of Corrections can be found at www.oregon.gov/doc.

PORTLAND, Ore.—Two Romanian nationals unlawfully residing in the United States made their initial appearances yesterday after being indicted by a federal grand jury for their role in a conspiracy to steal more than $160,000 of benefits from low income and food insecure individuals and families.

Alexandru Telescu, 29, and Aramis Manolea, 35, have been charged in a 26-count indictment with conspiracy to defraud the United States, access device fraud, possession, production, and trafficking of device-making equipment, and aggravated identity theft.

“We are deeply grateful to our partners for their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the integrity of essential programs, like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program,” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “Those who steal these sacred funds will be held accountable, and we will ensure that these vital programs continue to serve the communities that rely on them.”

“This scheme effectively took food from the dinner tables of struggling American families,” said Carrie Nordyke, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation’s (IRS-CI) Seattle Field Office. “We’re proud to help our law enforcement partners expose abuse of the SNAP Program and keep government assistance available for those who need it.”

“We thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Oregon Department of Human Services, and IRS-CI for their steadfast work on this impactful investigation,” said Shawn Dionida, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of Inspector General (USDA OIG) Special Agent-in-Charge.

According to court documents, beginning in April 2025, Telescu and Manolea, along with others, conspired to use stolen Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) account information and PINs to fraudulently purchase SNAP-eligible items, like infant formula and energy drinks. The defendants, along with their co-conspirators, also conspired to possess and use electronic devices to steal EBT account information and PINs from point-of-sale terminals in Oregon and elsewhere. The conspiracy used the EBT benefits at grocery stores in Oregon, Washington, and California. The stolen goods were packaged in storage units and loaded into vans and trucks for shipment to California.

For example, from July 4, 2025, through October 13, 2025, Telescu and co-conspirators used a Sam’s Club account in California to conduct approximately 231 fraudulent SNAP transactions using victims’ EBT accounts totaling approximately $102,000. From September 5, 2025, through September 9, 2025, Manolea and a co-conspirator used 10 separate EBT accounts in Oregon retail stores to steal approximately $8,739 in SNAP funds. On September 23, 2025, Telescu and co-defendant Andy Perovici installed a skimming device on a retail point-of-sale terminal in Tigard, Oregon, with the intent to capture EBT card account data and customers’ PINs.

Telescu and Manolea made their initial appearance in federal court yesterday before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. They were arraigned, pleaded not guilty, and ordered detained pending trial.

The USDA OIG and IRS-CI are investigating the case with assistance from the United States Marshals Service for the District of Oregon, Eastern District of California, and the Central District of California, and the Oregon Department of Human Services. Geoffrey A. Barrow and Nicholas D. Meyers, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon, are prosecuting the case.

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

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Donations mark another record-breaking year of giving for OnPoint, which supported more than 350 nonprofits in 2025

PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon’s largest credit union donated an unprecedented amount to 350+ nonprofits across Oregon and southwest Washington. This year’s giving totaled more than $4 million, and focused on food and shelter, youth services, financial education, and environmental stewardship.

“The holiday season reminds us of what communities can accomplish when we come together,” said Rob Stuart, president and CEO of OnPoint Community Credit Union. “These nonprofits are feeding families, helping people stay housed and giving children a safe place to sleep. We are honored to advance their missions.”

The support comes at a critical time, as one in eight people in the region is experiencing food insecurity, according to Feeding America. $110,000 of OnPoint's total 2025 donations were earmarked specifically for food and shelter support services via an annual employee giving campaign.

OnPoint’s Employee Giving Campaign

Every year, OnPoint employees receive $50 each to allocate to the food or shelter nonprofit of their choice. The campaign, now in its ninth year, resulted in just over 1,270 OnPoint employees contributing a combined $53,085 to 225 nonprofits. Eight of those organizations received an additional $60,000 match from OnPoint to further advance their critical missions. The funds will be divided equally among the following groups:

• Centro Cultural: Provides culturally-specific free food to approximately 500-600 families and individuals weekly in Cornelius, Oregon.
• Path Home: With more unsheltered families in Oregon than any state in the nation, Path Home empowers families and children to get back into housing and stay there long-term.
• Marion Polk Food Share: Distributes nutritious food for individuals and families to more than 100 local partners, including food pantries and meal sites. It also delivers Meals on Wheels and operates an urban farm.
• Looking Glass Community Services: Provides comprehensive services to teens in crisis, including emergency shelter for homeless youth.
• J Bar J Youth Services: Provides shelter, transitional living, family mediation, and counseling for homeless youth.
• Council on Aging of Central Oregon: Provides meals for adults ages 60 and older through Meals on Wheels and Community Dining in Central Oregon.
• FISH of Vancouver: Provides emergency food boxes to those in need through its food pantry.
• YWCA of Clark County: Dedicated to empowering women, preventing violence and eliminating racism and other forms of oppression. It is the only Emergency Domestic Violence Shelter in Clark County.              

“At Marion Polk Food Share, $1 donated provides 3 meals in our community, which means that the employees of OnPoint Community Credit Union have provided more than 22,000 meals for the people in Marion and Polk counties this holiday season,” said Rick Gaupo, president & CEO, Marion Polk Food Share. “All we can say is thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you for shortening the distance between families and the nutritious food they need to thrive."  

To learn more about OnPoint’s charitable giving, visit onpointcu.com/community-giving.

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About OnPoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in Oregon, with assets of over $9.5 billion and serving more than 631,000 members throughout Oregon and southwest Washington. Founded in 1932, OnPoint Community Credit Union’s membership is available to anyone who lives or works in one of 28 Oregon counties (Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Crook, Curry, Deschutes, Douglas, Gilliam, Hood River, Jackson, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Morrow, Multnomah, Polk, Sherman, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, Wheeler and Yamhill) and who lives, works, worships, or attends school in one of four Washington counties (Clark, Cowlitz, Lewis, and Skamania), and their immediate family members. OnPoint Community Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA). More information is available at onpointcu.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Dec. 18, 2025 | Audio available at 10:00 AM

CONTACT INFORMATION: ah.E.CUNNINGHAM@employ.oregon.gov">Sarah Cunningham, Projections Economist, (503) 871-0046

Oregon Jobs Projected to Increase 6% by 2034

The Oregon Employment Department projects Oregon’s total employment to grow by 141,000 jobs between 2024 and 2034. These employment projections reflect modest job growth in the economy, although many additional job openings are expected due to the need to replace workers who leave their occupations.

In 2024, there were 2.2 million jobs in Oregon. The projected 6% increase in employment between 2024 and 2034 includes private-sector gains of 125,500 jobs, growth of 7,700 jobs in government, and an additional 7,400 self-employed Oregonians.

All broad sectors in Oregon are expected to add jobs by 2034, except for federal government, which is projected to decline by 3% (-1,000 jobs). The private health care and social assistance sector is projected to increase the fastest, growing by 13%. Private health care and social assistance is also projected to add the largest number of jobs over the next 10 years (+40,400 jobs). This growth is attributed to the aging of the state’s population, longer life expectancies, and an expected rebound in the state’s long-term population growth.

The construction and professional and business services sectors are projected to grow at the second-fastest rate, gaining 10% each. Growth in construction can be attributed to construction of buildings (+11%) and specialty trade contractors (+11%), which includes establishments that perform specific construction-related activities such as site preparation, plumbing, painting, and electrical work.

Growth in professional and business services is expected to be primarily driven by professional and technical services (+15%), which includes architectural and engineering services (+23%), computer systems design and related services (+10%), and legal services (-3%).

Many of the fastest-growing occupations are associated with jobs in the health care industry. Nine of the top 15 fastest-growing occupations by 2034 are in health care. They include nurse practitioners, physician assistants, medical and health services managers, and psychiatric technicians. Computer and mathematical occupations comprise three of the top 15 fastest-growing occupations, as demand increases for workers who can model, interpret, and analyze data in addition to demand for the development of AI solutions and their integration into business practices. They include data scientists, information security analysts, and operations research analysts.

A broad variety of career opportunities will be available across all sectors, as well as all job types. Four out of 10 job openings will require education or training beyond high school, but applicants will require education beyond high school to be competitive in six out of 10 job openings.

Occupations with the most job openings that typically require a high school diploma or less include fast food workers, stockers and order fillers, retail salespersons, cashiers, and home health and personal care aides. Those requiring a postsecondary certification or associate’s degree include bookkeepers, truck drivers, nursing and medical assistants. Occupations with the most job openings requiring at least a bachelor’s degree vary from general and operations managers to registered nurses, other educational instruction and library workers, project management specialists, and all other business operations specialists.

All areas of Oregon are expected to see job opportunities in the coming years due to economic growth and the replacement of workers leaving the labor force. The two areas projected to grow faster than Oregon's rate of 6% are the Portland tri-county area (7%) and Central Oregon (7%). Slower growth is expected in the Columbia Gorge, Northwest, South Central, Southwestern Oregon, and the Eastern Six Oregon counties with 5% growth each.

Additional Information

More information on 2024-2034 industry and occupational projections for Oregon and sub-state areas can be found at www.qualityinfo.org/projections. 

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

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

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Bend, Ore. - The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce that Lt. Nathan Garibay was formally recognized with a Lifetime Achievement award for his outstanding contributions to Emergency Management and Search and Rescue during the Oregon State Sheriffs’ Association (OSSA) Winter Conference, held last week at the Riverhouse in Bend. 

Lt. Garibay received this honor in front of law enforcement leaders and Emergency Managers from across Oregon—an acknowledgment of his reputation as one of the state’s most respected and forward-thinking professionals in the field.

For over a decade, Lt. Garibay has served as a mentor, advisor, and a steady presence in times of crisis. His leadership has shaped emergency response efforts across the region, and his work as the inaugural Chair of the OSSA Emergency Management Command Council laid the groundwork for a successful statewide Incident Management Team (IMT) program.

“Lt. Garibay is the kind of leader every community hopes to have in times of crisis,” said Sheriff Ty Rupert. “He brings not only expertise, but compassion, humility, and a relentless drive to serve. His work has shaped the future of Emergency Management in Oregon, and we are proud to have him on our team.”

Whether responding to wildfires, floods, or large-scale search and rescue missions, Lt. Garibay consistently demonstrates professionalism, empathy, and a deep commitment to public service. His recognition at the OSSA Winter Conference is a testament to the respect he has earned from colleagues statewide.

Lt. Garibay began his law enforcement career in 1996. He has served as a cadet, police officer, sergeant, and lieutenant with the Redmond Police Department, and as a deputy sheriff, sergeant, and now lieutenant with the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office. He was supported at the OSSA Winter Conference by Sheriff Ty Rupert, Cpt. Mike Sundberg, Cpt. Bryan Husband, and Cpt. Michael Shults. All are incredibly proud of the leadership Lt. Garibay brings to the Sheriff’s Office and the example he sets for public service across Oregon.

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The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) is pleased to announce the award of nearly $1 million in grant funding to support a range of robust and innovative local veteran service efforts and key projects to help improve veteran outcomes and provide critical services across Oregon.

The Legislature approved $972,653 for the Veteran Services Grant program for the 2025-27 biennium, which was first established following Oregon voters’ overwhelming support of Measure 96 in 2016 dedicating 1.5 percent of Lottery net proceeds to fund veteran services. ODVA received proposals from across Oregon totaling more than $3.6 million in requested funds. Of these, 16 organizations were selected to receive awards, which range from approximately $10,500 to $145,000 for the one-time grants.

The awards include projects and services focusing on veteran homelessness and housing insecurity, transportation access, education and training, employment opportunities, and other critical services in communities across the state. The grant awards will benefit veterans and their families living in rural, urban and Tribal communities.

The projects were evaluated by a committee composed of members of the Veterans Advisory Committee to the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs, representatives from various veteran service organizations, as well as other provider partners from across the state.

“This grant isn’t just about dollars — it’s about investing in people, communities, and ideas that help veterans build stable, fulfilling lives here in Oregon,” said ODVA Director Dr. Nakeia Council Daniels. “Through the power of these locally driven, community-led solutions, we’re strengthening partnerships and building resilient systems that support the diverse needs of veterans across our state. The work of the Veteran Service Grant Program helps ensure that every Oregon veteran has the opportunity to thrive, no matter where they live.”

The ODVA Veteran Services Grant recipients for the 2025-27 cycle are:

• American Military Encouragement Network (AMEN)
• Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde
• Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians
• Fort Kennedy
• Housing Our Veterans
• Lake County Senior Citizens Association
• Linn County Veterans Services
• Oregon Cascades West Council of Governments
• Paws Assisting Veterans
• Reveille and Retreat Project
• Solid Ground Equine Assisted Activities and Therapy Center
• St. Andrew Legal Clinic
• VetREST
• Wallowa Valley Center for Wellness
• Washington County Disability, Aging and Veteran Services
• Wheeler County Community Transportation

To learn more about the Veteran Services Grant or other grant opportunities available through ODVA, visit https://www.oregon.gov/odva/agency-programs/grants/Pages/Veteran-Services-Grant.aspx.

Veterans and families seeking claims and benefits assistance are encouraged to contact their local county or Tribal veteran services office. To find services near you, visit www.oregon.gov/odva/Services/Pages/default.aspx.

Established in 1945, the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is dedicated to serving Oregon’s diverse veteran community that spans five eras of service members. ODVA administers programs and provides special advocacy and assistance in accessing earned veteran benefits across the state. Learn about veteran benefits and services or locate a local county or Tribal veteran services office online at oregon.gov/odva.
 

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Legacy executives are under fire for refusing to meet and bargain in good faith with frontline healthcare providers. 

(Portland, Ore.) – Oregon elected officials are coming out in support of striking advanced practice providers (APPs) and urging Legacy executives to “work around the clock” to reach a fair agreement that addresses healthcare providers’ concerns and ends Oregon’s first APP strike.

The group of 10 Oregon representatives and a state senator shared their concerns in an open letter to Legacy CEO Dr. George Brown Dec. 17 saying:

“Oregonians cannot afford further delays, disruptions or missteps when it comes to their healthcare. Every day without an agreement adds stress to an already-fragile healthcare system. We are calling on Legacy to act responsibly and sit down with APPs immediately to resolve this dispute and ensure local healthcare is accessible, affordable and delivers on Legacy’s mission ...”

Legislators echoed APPs’ concerns about, “deteriorating working conditions, inequitable compensation, unpaid labor and repeated refusals by Legacy to engage in good faith bargaining” and reiterated the need to restore stability and affordability throughout the healthcare system.

• Click here to read the full letter from Oregon state legislators.

The APPs, including nurse practitioners, physician associates and clinical nurse specialists at Legacy hospitals and clinics, began an open-ended strike Dec. 2 after Legacy executives refused to continue contract negotiations. APPs have offered to meet with Legacy executives every day since Nov. 20 in an effort to reach a fair agreement. But Legacy has refused to bargain until recently.

The only bargaining dates currently scheduled are Dec. 18 and 22.

Oregon’s elected leaders aren’t the only ones siding with striking APPs. Recently, two new groups of Legacy providers voted to join the strike. APPs at Legacy Go Health clinics will hold a two-day strike alongside striking hospital and clinic APPs on Dec. 21 and 22. Legacy Pediatric APPs will also hold a solidarity strike with their APP colleagues Dec. 22 and 23.

The expanding strike and support from elected leaders reflects widespread frustration with Legacy’s bargaining approach and with APPs' working conditions systemwide.

APPs at Legacy’s hospitals and clinics have been working for more than a year and a half to try to reach a contract agreement with Legacy executives. They are demanding a fair contract that raises standards for patients, gives frontline providers a voice in their workplace, and stems turnover through competitive compensation.

The 140 (APPs) at Legacy Health are represented by the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA). ONA represents more than 3,500 frontline healthcare providers at Legacy.

Strike lines are located at Legacy Good Samaritan and Legacy Emanuel hospitals from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Check ONA’s social media feed for the latest schedule updates.  

Community members can visit OregonRN.org/RespectAPPs to learn more about ongoing negotiations, sign a community petition in support of the APPs, and stay informed about the impact of the strike.  

A reminder to patients from APPs:   

If you are sick, please do not delay getting medical care. Patients who need hospital or clinical care immediately should go to receive care. We would prefer to provide your care ourselves, but Legacy executives’ refusal to continue meeting with APPs has forced us to strike to advocate for you, our communities, and our colleagues. Going into a hospital or clinic to get the care you need is NOT crossing our strike line. We invite you to come join us on the strike line after you've received the care you need.  

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The Oregon Department of Revenue (DOR) will open the application period in January 2026 for the Agricultural Employer Overtime Tax Credit.

Paying overtime to agricultural workers became a requirement of employers in Oregon as of January 1, 2023. In 2025, agricultural workers are paid overtime after they work 48 hours in one work week. If an employer paid overtime, they may qualify for a refundable personal or corporate income tax credit, regardless of the size of the business.

The tax credit for employers is a percentage of overtime premium pay paid as wages.

All applications must be submitted no later than February 2, 2026. 

The 2025 filing period marks the third year since eligible employers have been able to apply for the tax credit.

Applications can only be made through the department’s Revenue Online website. Qualifying agricultural employers who have not applied for the tax credit previously need a Revenue Online account to apply during the application period. No paper applications will be accepted. We have published a new video to help customers with their Revenue Online applications.

DOR encourages employers to prepare in advance to ensure an easier and faster filing experience. DOR’s webpage provides guidance for how to apply, documentation you may need, program information, and frequently asked questions to help employers apply for the tax credit.

For general questions about the Agricultural Employer Overtime Tax Credit, email: time@dor.oregon.gov">Ag.Overtime@dor.oregon.gov.

Tax practitioners with other tax or customer account questions are encouraged to contact a dedicated practitioner specialist by email at ac.revenue@dor.oregon.gov" target="_blank" title="mailto:prac.revenue@dor.oregon.gov">prac.revenue@dor.oregon.gov, or by phone at 503-947-3541.

BEND, Ore. – The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is partnering with America’s State Parks for free guided First Day Hikes in state parks on New Year’s Day, Thursday, Jan. 1.

Information about the hike hosted at Tumalo State Park:

• A 2-mile round-trip hike along the Deschutes River Trail features easy to medium terrain, with little to no elevation gain and scenic views, providing many photo opportunities.
• The hike begins at 1 p.m. Please meet in the back of the day-use parking lot. 64125 OB Reily Road, Bend, OR 97703.
• The trail is narrow, has a dirt surface with occasional protruding rocks, and is not ADA accessible.
• Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times. Please carry bags to pick up pet waste. Bicycles are prohibited on this portion of the Deschutes River Trail.
• Participants should prepare for cold weather and snow, dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water and snacks, as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing. A portable toilet is available.
• For more information, call 541-388-6055.

If you have questions about access or to request any reasonable accommodations needed for your participation, please contact Park Ranger Brian Vaughan, 541-388-6055. Requests must be submitted at least three days prior to January 1.
 

All activities are free, but a day-use parking permit is required. Permits cost $10 per day for Oregon Residents or $12 for non-residents; annual permits are also sold at the park.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via social media by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes.

First Day Hikes is a national initiative to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, promote exercise and encourage connecting with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has participated since 2012.

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CULVER, Ore. – Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is hosting a free guided First Day Hike at The Cove Palisades State Park on New Year’s Day, Thursday, Jan. 1. 

It's part of the annual First Day Hikes event at 25 Oregon State Parks held in partnership with America’s State Parks on New Year’s Day.

Information about the hike hosted at The Cove Palisades State Park is below:

• Join a park ranger for a beautiful 2-mile hike through the Crooked River Wetlands, then continue up the Rim Trail where you will be treated to stunning views of Mt. Jefferson and the Three Sisters. Along the way, we’ll discuss some of The Cove’s fascinating geological history and keep an eye out for any winter wildlife. Refreshments will be served at the overlook.
• The hike starts at 10 a.m. Meet at the top of the hill and turn into the Crooked River Campground overflow parking lot. Look for signs.
• The hike may not be suitable for people with breathing difficulties, trouble with uneven terrain or with strollers. Restrooms will be located in the parking lot and in the camp only.
• Friendly dogs are always welcome on six-foot leashes.
• Participants are encouraged to dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots that can handle getting wet. It is important to bring water and snacks, as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing. Some visitors may also find it helpful to bring a walking stick or pole if there is snow. Additionally, sunglasses may be advisable.
• For more information, call 541-546-3412.

If you have questions about access or to request any reasonable accommodations needed for your participation, please contact Park Ranger Erin Bennet, 541-977-5759. Requests must be submitted at least three days prior to January 1.

All activities are free, but a day-use parking permit is required. Permits cost $10 per day for Oregon Residents or $12 for non-residents; annual permits are also sold at the park.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via social media by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes.

First Day Hikes is a national initiative to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, promote exercise and encourage connecting with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has participated since 2012.

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REDMOND, Ore. – The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is hosting a free guided First Day Hike at Smith Rock State Park on New Year’s Day, Thursday, Jan. 1. 

It's part of the annual First Day Hikes in partnership with America’s State Parks for free guided hikes in state parks on New Year’s Day.

Information about the hike hosted at Smith Rock State Park:

• The approximately 1-mile round trip hike highlights all the unique wonders of Smith Rock and the surrounding ecosystem. Be prepared to learn all about the geology, animals, and plants that make this park truly special.
• Registration is required.
• The hike starts at 10 a.m. Meet in the day-use lawn next to the Welcome Center. 10260 NE Crooked River Drive, Terrebonne, OR 97760.
• The hiking trail is gravel and compacted soil with no elevation gain.
• Friendly dogs are always welcome on six-foot leashes. No drones allowed.
• Participants should dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes appropriate for ice and snow, and bring water and snacks, as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.
• For more information, call 541-548-7501.

If you have questions about access or to request any reasonable accommodations needed for your participation, please contact Park Ranger Alexis Ober, 541-548-7501. Requests must be submitted at least three days prior to January 1.

All activities are free, but a day-use parking permit is required. Permits cost $10 per day for Oregon Residents or $12 for non-residents; annual permits are also sold at the park.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via social media by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes.

First Day Hikes is a national initiative to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, promote exercise and encourage connecting with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has participated since 2012.

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LA PINE, Ore. – The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is hosting a free guided First Day Hike at La Pine State Park on New Year’s Day, Thursday, Jan. 1.

It's part of the annual First Day Hikes in partnership with America’s State Parks for free guided hikes in state parks on New Year’s Day.

Information about the hike hosted at La Pine State Park:

• The approximately 1.5-mile round-trip hike offers scenic views of an oxbow lake and a chance to see the largest ponderosa pine in the world. Beautiful winter conditions.
• Registration is required. 
• The hike starts at 1 p.m. at the Cougar Woods Day-Use Parking Area. 15800 State Recreation Rd.
• The hike is on a dirt trail with 80 feet of elevation gain. Possible ice and snow may limit accessibility on the day of the hike.
• Children’s strollers are not recommended because of the possibility of snow or ice. Dogs are welcome on six-foot leashes. 
• Participants should dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water and snacks, as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing. Snowshoes may be needed depending on conditions.
• For more information, call 541-536-2428.

If you have questions about access or to request any reasonable accommodations needed for your participation, please get in touch with Park Manager Scott Bown, 541-280-4953. Requests must be submitted at least three days before January 1.

All activities are free, but a day-use parking permit is required. Permits cost $10 per day for Oregon Residents or $12 for non-residents; annual permits are also sold at the park.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via social media by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes.

First Day Hikes is a national initiative to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, promote exercise and encourage connecting with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has participated since 2012.

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This year, Oregon Lottery’s holiday Scratch-it tickets are available in five festive designs, ranging from “Make It Merry” to “Sleigh Ride Riches.” The tickets, priced from $2 to $30, make popular stocking stuffers and can be found at Oregon Lottery retailers across the state.  

Scratch-its are a fun, last-minute gift idea since there’s no concern about choosing the right size or color. But there is one important consideration – make sure lottery tickets are only given to those 18 years old and up.  

“Oregon Lottery Scratch-its are an ideal adults-only gift: simple to give, packed with possibility, and guaranteed to add a touch of excitement to every celebration,” said Stacy Shaw, who leads Oregon Lottery’s Safer Play program.

Throughout the year, the Oregon Lottery and lotteries worldwide partner with the National Council on Problem Gambling to promote gifting lottery tickets responsibly. The Oregon Lottery has been part of this annual campaign for over a decade. In addition, Oregon Lottery helps fund free, confidential, and effective counseling and treatment programs statewide. Visit OPGR.org for more information.

For those over 18 picking up Scratch-its, winning tickets range from a few dollars to the “Holiday Wishes” top prize of $200,000. Use the Oregon Lottery mobile app to see if you won and enter non-winning tickets into the free Second Chance drawings. Regardless of the outcome, lottery games help fund programs that Oregonians care about.

Celebrating 40 years of selling games since April 25, 1985, Oregon Lottery has earned more than $16.5 billion for economic development, public education, outdoor school, state parks, veteran services, and watershed enhancements. Since 1992, $155 million in Lottery dollars has been directed to fund problem gambling treatment and awareness in Oregon. For more information on the Oregon Lottery visit www.oregonlottery.org.

SALEM, Oregon— Whether you prefer a moderate hike through a desert landscape or a paved wooded trail inside city limits, Oregon State Parks has a First Day Hike for you on New Year’s Day, Thursday Jan. 1.

Rangers and volunteers will lead guided First Day Hikes at 25 parks around the state with distances ranging from a quarter-mile stroll to a 5-mile trek. Hikes are free, but a day-use parking permit is required at some parks. Permits cost $10 per day for Oregon Residents or $12 for non-residents; annual permits are also sold online or at park offices.

America’s State Parks sponsors the First Day Hikes program nationwide to encourage everyone to start the year outside and connect with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) has participated since 2012.

“Across Oregon, First Day Hikes have grown into a beloved New Year’s tradition for visitors and staff alike. On January 1^st, park rangers and volunteers share stories of park history, geology, wildlife, and plants, as families and friends kick off the year together with an engaging outdoor adventure,” said Lisa Sumption, director of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

Visit the Oregon First Day Hikes web page to see the list of parks hosting hikes. Additional hike information such as hike times, meet-up locations and trail terrain are available via the park links on the web page. A few hikes require registration including Deschutes River, Elijah Bristow, Emigrant Springs, LaPine, Lukiamute, Oswald West, Sitka Sedge, and Smith Rock.

For any questions about accessibility or to request reasonable accommodations needed to participate in a hike, please see the contact information on each hike's webpage.

Remember to plan for winter weather, dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, bring water and carry binoculars for viewing wildlife.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via X and Instagram by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes or tagging “Oregon State Parks” on Facebook.

About America’s State Parks
America’s State Parks is an alliance of state park systems in all 50 states. The National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD) promotes and advocates for the state park systems across America in providing conservation and management of natural and cultural resources, quality outdoor recreation experiences, and connecting children and families to nature and the outdoors. With collectively more than 9,817 park areas covering over 20 million acres of land, and visitation of nearly 900 million people annually, state park systems across the country are an integral part of protecting natural and cultural resources while providing guests amazing access to the outdoors. Learn more about America’s State Parks at stateparks.org.

Media Resources: photos available at this link.

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PORTLAND, Ore.—A Washington man was sentenced to federal prison today for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and endangering the welfare of a minor.

Guadalupe Escamilla, 63, was sentenced to 77 months in federal prison and three years of supervised release for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, and 12 months in custody and one year of supervised release for endangering the welfare of a minor, to be served concurrently.

According to court documents, in December 2023, Escamilla transported a minor victim from Washington to Oregon and checked into a hotel room with her at the Wildhorse Resort and Casino on the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR). On December 4, 2023, the Umatilla Tribal Police Department found drug paraphernalia and methamphetamine on the minor victim. The minor victim reported that Escamilla told her to hold onto the drugs. An additional search of her belongings revealed two small bags of rainbow-colored fentanyl pills, also attributable to Escamilla. Officers also found approximately 95 gross grams of methamphetamine in the hotel room that Escamilla and the minor victim were staying in.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation executed a search warrant on Escamilla’s Facebook account and phone, finding numerous messages involving selling fentanyl and methamphetamine in Eastern Oregon and Washington.

On April 8, 2025, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment charging Escamilla with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

On September 10, 2025, Escamilla pleaded guilty to a superseding information charging him with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and endangering the welfare of a minor.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Umatilla Tribal Police Department with assistance from the CTUIR Department of Children and Family Services and the CTUIR Tribal Prosecutor Victim and Witness Assistance Program. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cassady A. Adams.

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SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) has virtually activated the State Emergency Coordination Center (ECC) to Level 3 – Regional Response as of 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, in response to an incoming atmospheric river expected to bring heavy rainfall, potential flooding, and increased landslide risk across western Oregon. The ECC will be supported with representatives from key state agencies to ensure streamlined communication, coordination, and resource support for impacted communities. 

Flood Watch and Landslide Risk Across Western Oregon 

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch through Thursday night for multiple counties, including Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Tillamook, Washington, and Yamhill. The heaviest rainfall is expected Thursday and Friday, with conditions shifting south over the weekend. Saturated soils and steep terrain, especially in areas recently affected by wildfires, may lead to landslides and debris flows. This will be accompanied by high wind gusts along the coast, in the coastal mountains and some inland areas. 

Stay alert and take precautions: Turn Around, Don’t Drown 

• Be aware of limbs that may have come loose in the windstorm and be cautious of falling branches. Make sure outdoor furniture and decor is secured. 
• Listen for unusual sounds such as cracking trees or rumbling rocks. 
• Watch for sudden changes in water flow or color. 
• Travel cautiously, especially at night. Assume roads may be compromised. 
• Do NOT drive or walk through flood waters. There are unseen hazards like open storm drains and metal debris, and cars can be swept away in even a few inches of water. 
• Understand the additional burn scar risks. 
• The Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office urges you to be careful using alternative power sources during power outages. 

Stay Informed 

OEM also reminds Oregonians to prepare for future flooding and landslide risks: 

• Sign up for emergency alerts at ORAlert.gov and ensure Wireless Emergency Alerts are enabled on mobile devices. 
• Stay alert to changing conditions. Monitor weather updates via radio, TV, or weather.gov/pqr. 
• Create and review your evacuation plan and understand the evacuation levels (1. Be Ready, 2. Be Set, 3. GO NOW!). 
• Stay informed through trusted sources like local emergency managers, county sheriffs’ offices, and public land agencies. 
• Check road conditions at TripCheck.com or by calling 511.  
• Check out OEM’s Real-time Assessment and Planning Tool for Oregon (RAPTOR) and GIS to see up to the minute hazard updates. 
• See flooding inundation maps for your area on the NOAA website. 

Stay Connected 

Sign up to receive the latest updates from OEM and explore preparedness tips, including how to Be 2 Weeks Ready for any disaster, at Oregon.gov/OEM.

MEDFORD, Ore.—An Oregon woman was sentenced to federal prison today for embezzling more than $250,000 from her employer and evading over $50,000 in federal taxes.  

Notja Michelle Brower, 53, was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison and five years of supervised release. She was also ordered to pay $310,106 in restitution to her victims.

According to court documents, in July 2018, Victim Business 1 (VB1) hired Brower as a bookkeeper and office manager. Within one month of her hire, Ms. Brower began defrauding VB1 by issuing herself unauthorized company checks and pocketing thousands of dollars in cash payments. She then altered VB1’s business records to conceal her thefts as business expenses and payroll draws. Brower also fraudulently opened a credit card in the personal name of a VB1 owner and used that card to purchase over $20,000 in travel, casino, restaurant, and exotic car rental expenses. Brower then made payments to that credit card using VB1’s business checking account.

Also, for tax years 2018 and 2019, Brower willfully failed to report the embezzled funds as income, resulting in over $250,000 in unreported income and a total tax due and owing of $57,705.

On April 4, 2024, a federal grand jury in Medford returned a twelve-count indictment charging Brower with bank fraud, wire fraud, unauthorized use of an access device, aggravated identity theft, and tax evasion.  

On March 10, 2025, Brower pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud and one count of tax evasion.

This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation and Medford Police Department. It was prosecuted by John C. Brassell, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.  

# # #

Klamath County, Ore. (Dec. 17, 2025)- On Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at 6:40 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 97, near milepost 255, in Klamath County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Chevrolet Silverado 2500, operated by Gordon Travis Gilmer (37) of Sacramento (CA), lost control, entered the northbound lane, and struck a Toyota Hilux, operated by Triston Charles Morrow (26) of Chiloquin, head-on.

The operator of the Toyota (Morrow) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Chevrolet (Gilmer) and passenger, Christian Octavio Rodriguez (28) of Rosamond (CA), suffered reported minor injuries. A second passenger of the Chevrolet, James Devon Cozart Jr. (19) of Rancho Cordova (CA) was reportedly uninjured.

The highway was impacted for approximately one hour during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

OSP was assisted by Chiloquin Fire 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.

A Tualatin company intentionally kept a faulty system in place for storing raw materials, exposing employees to struck-by and crushing hazards, an inspection by the Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) has found.

Avalon International Aluminum, a maker of metal door and window framing, willfully violated a safety rule by refusing to follow the installation and maintenance requirements set by the manufacturer of its industrial storage racks.

The decision allowed hundreds of pounds of raw materials to sit atop unanchored cantilever storage racks, some with damaged or upside-down baseplates, rising as high as 18 feet. The situation left employees, who reached the raw materials by hand and forklift, exposed to potential bodily harm.

Oregon OSHA issued a citation to the company for two violations: one “willful,” involving the storage racks, and the other “serious,” for failing to guard a belt sander at a nip point where hands and fingers could get mangled or cut off. The violations amounted to a total penalty of $28,478. The company remains under an order by Oregon OSHA to correct the willful violation. During the inspection, the company corrected the belt sander violation.

A willful violation occurs when an employer knowingly violates a workplace safety or health requirement. It is a type of violation rarely cited by Oregon OSHA.

“Under the Oregon Safe Employment Act, employers are responsible for understanding and following the safety and health requirements that apply to their industries,” said Renée Stapleton, administrator for Oregon OSHA. “To knowingly disregard those requirements can only be described one way: inexcusable.”

A complaint prompted Oregon OSHA to open the inspection of Avalon International Aluminum. Oregon OSHA completed its inspection in November. The division’s examination of the company’s operations included interviews with employer representatives and employees, conversations with a manufacturer of the storage racks, walk-throughs of the company’s warehouses, measurements, and photo documentation. Among the findings: an estimated 40 baseplates for the storage racks were unanchored to the concrete floor; an estimated four baseplates were damaged; and an estimated three baseplates were installed upside down.

Employers have 30 calendar days after receiving a citation to file an appeal. Avalon International Aluminum filed an appeal of its citation. Oregon workers have a right to safe and healthy working conditions. They have a right to speak up when those conditions are lacking or absent. Employers must create and maintain safe and healthy workplaces. Oregon OSHA offers nonenforcement resources to employers that want help with improvements or that have questions about requirements:

Consultation services – provides free help with safety and health programs including how to control and eliminate hazards, and hands-on training

• Phone (toll-free in Oregon): 800-922-2689
• Field offices
• Online
• Email: consult.web@dcbs.oregon.gov

Technical staff – helps employers understand requirements and how to apply them to their worksites

• Phone (toll-free in Oregon): 800-922-2689
• Online
• Email: tech.web@dcbs.oregon.gov

Oregon OSHA also offers free online training services and publications in English and Spanish, and key information for workers and employers.

###

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.

Deschutes County, Ore. (Dec. 17, 2025)- On Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at 5:34 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a four-vehicle crash on Highway 97, near milepost 127, in Deschutes County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Chrysler Pacifica, operated by William Longhway Sargent (79) of Bend, crossed into the northbound lanes for unknown reasons and sideswiped a northbound Landrover Range Rover, operated by John Bowman Browning III (18) of Redmond, and a Chevrolet Tahoe, operated by Joseph Anthony Russo (25) of Terrebonne, before striking a northbound Freightliner commercial motor vehilce and trailer, operated by Johnny Edward Jantzen Jr. (61) of Red Bluff (CA), head-on. 

The operator of the Chrysler (Sargent) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Landrover (Browning III), Chevrolet (Russo), and Freightliner (Jantzen Jr.) were reportedly uninjured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office 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.

Josephine County, Ore. (Dec. 17, 2025)- On Monday, December 15, 2025, at 11:53 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 199, near milepost 9, in Josephine County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Ford Econoline, operated by Dakota Mcleod Palmer (27) of Ashland, lost control of the vehicle, left the roadway, and struck a utility pole. 

The operator of the vehicle (Palmer) was transported to an area hospital with reported minor injuries.

A passenger of the vehicle, Kyle Dewayne King (50) of Elgin (TX), was declared deceased after being transported to an area hospital.

The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

OSP was assisted by the Josephine County Sheriff's Office, Rural Metro 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.

PR 16-25                                                           

BONNEVILLE POWER ADMINISTRATION

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025

CONTACT: Kevin Wingert, 971-207-8390

BPA responding to widespread weather-related outages
Region-wide weather system posing challenges on lower-voltage BPA lines, utility distribution lines

Portland, Ore. – Bonneville Power Administration experienced over 40 transmission outages across its service territory due to extreme weather experienced in the early morning of Dec. 17.

Bonneville crews are at various stages of identifying outage causes and making repairs as needed with several points of delivery serving BPA’s utility customers out of service.

On Tuesday night, a strong cold front collided with much warmer than average air, resulting in widespread gusty winds that coupled with already saturated soils and trees.

Impacts to BPA’s electric grid were mostly felt in lower voltage ranges of 115-kilovolt lines and below. BPA crews are responding to outages across our service territory, with a heightened focus on outages impacting communities along the Oregon northern coast and southwestern Washington, including Driscoll, Astoria, Tillamook and Forest Grove. BPA is working in conjunction with PacifiCorp and local impacted utilities such as Wahkiakum Public Utility District, Tillamook People's Utility District, City of Forest Grove, Western Electric Co-op and others.

BPA crews have identified numerous off-right-of-way trees in both transmission and distribution lines across our service territory.

To enable as many resources and crews as possible in response to this event, BPA suspended all non-critical, life-safety related maintenance outages across its service territory. Additionally, any lines that were out of service for routine maintenance were returned to service to ensure transmission capacity and availability to reroute power as needed.

Many of BPA’s customer utilities are experiencing significant impacts on their own distribution systems, and BPA is actively working through mutual assistance aid agreements to provide help where needed.

About BPA: BPA is a federal non-profit power marketing administration that delivers reliable, affordable and carbon-free hydropower produced in the Columbia River Basin to communities across the Northwest. BPA also owns and operates more than 15,000 circuit miles of high-voltage transmission lines and administers one of the largest, most comprehensive fish and wildlife conservation programs in the United States. More information about these and other activities is available on our Media Relations page.

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Columbia County, Ore (Dec. 17, 2025)- On Monday, December 15, 2025, at 11:42 P.M., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 47, near milepost 58, in Columbia County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Dodge Ram, operated by Todd Alan McCarthy (60) of Vernonia, left the roadway for unknown reasons, struck a utility pole and trees before coming to a rest off the roadway.

The operator of the Dodge (McCarthy) was declared deceased at the scene.

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

OSP was assisted by the Vernonia Police Depertment, Columbia County Sheriff's Office, Vernonia 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.

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon fire service, road crews, and power companies are busy cleaning up after a strong windstorm that swept across the Pacific Northwest. The storm knocked out power to thousands of Oregonians. The Oregon State Fire Marshal would like to remind everyone of the danger of carbon monoxide when heating or temporarily powering your home. The deadly gas can build up quickly in your home.

“Carbon monoxide is a deadly odorless and tasteless gas produced by generators, propane heaters, and other carbon burning sources,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “Having working carbon monoxide alarms in your home and taking a few simple steps can mean the difference between life and death.”

Carbon monoxide safety tips:

• Only use heaters intended for indoor use.
• Never use an oven or stovetop to heat your home.
• Always use generators outdoors in a well-ventilated space, at least 20 feet from any building or opening.
• Ensure proper ventilation for all fuel-burning appliances, including fireplaces, water heaters, furnaces, and dryers.
• Keep vents and chimneys clear of debris and check for any gaps, leaks, or rust.
• Never leave a car running in the garage.
• Always use barbecue grills outside away from all doors, windows, vents, and any building openings.

Oregonians should also know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning:

• headache
• dizziness
• nausea
• confusion

If you experience these symptoms, leave the area, get to fresh air, and call 9-1-1.

First responders see an increase in calls related to carbon monoxide during the winter months. It is important to practice these carbon monoxide tips as more storms are forecasted over the coming week. For more tips, please check out the fire safety section of our website at oregon.gov/osfm or the National Carbon Monoxide Awareness Association.

About the Oregon State Fire Marshal

The Oregon State Fire Marshal became an independent state agency in July 2023. The agency is dedicated to protecting people, property, and the environment from fire and hazardous materials. The Oregon State Fire Marshal works with local fire agencies, communities, and other partners to strengthen fire prevention, preparedness, and response statewide. Please note: the Oregon State Fire Marshal is no longer an office.  

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE    

Media hotline: 503-813-6018  

Pacific Power crews respond to outages related to overnight storms 

PORTLAND, Ore., (Dec. 17, 2025) — Pacific Power crews are responding to widespread outages across Oregon and Washington related to a storm system that brought high winds and rain to the region, impacting roughly 50,000 customers. 

Field crews are actively working to restore power in several areas, with the most significant impacts in Clatsop County and the mid-Willamette Valley. Due to severe storm damage, some customers in those areas may be without power overnight.  

“Our crews have been working hard around the clock to assess damage and make necessary repairs to get the power back on,” said Erik Brookhouse, vice president of system operations. “We understand losing power can be disruptive and inconvenient and we want to thank customers for their patience as our crews continue their work.” 

Pacific Power encourages customers to always be prepared for outages and supports state and local emergency management organizations, who recommend Oregonians have an emergency plan for up to 72 hours without essential services.   

Here are some simple steps customers can take to prepare and stay informed:     

• Update your contact information so we can reach you.   
• Sign up to receive outage alerts by text, email or phone.   
• Restock your outage kit.   
• Keep mobile devices charged so that they may be used in an emergency.   
• Track outages, update contact info and do more with our free app.   
• Text OUT to 722797 to report your outage or STAT to check status.    

Visit PacificPower.net/Outages for restoration estimates.   

As a reminder, stay away from all downed power lines and utility lines. Even if the lines are not sparking, they could be energized and extremely dangerous. Customers should avoid both downed trees and powerlines and keep pets far away from those areas.    

Call 911 and report the outage to Pacific Power at 1-877-508-5088.    

 ### 

About Pacific Power  

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

December 17, 2025

Media contact: Kim Lippert, erly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov" rel="noopener" style="color: rgb(6, 66, 118); text-decoration-line: none; text-size-adjust: 100%;" target="_blank">Kimberly.l.lippert@oha.oregon.gov, 971-323-3831

Oregon Health Authority responds to Measure 110 audit from the Oregon Secretary of State

PORTLAND, Ore. — Historically, Oregon’s behavioral health system has gone underfunded and overburdened. Today, with renewed focus and broad alignment, the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), is working to change that, reimagining what treatment can look like across the state when accountability meets action. An audit released by the Secretary of State shows that the agency has taken significant steps to strengthen program oversight and ensure responsible, effective use of Measure 110 dollars.

This important work is underway and producing meaningful results. As of today, there are 234 Behavioral Health Resource Network (BHRN) grantees across the state, with one in each county. These services include culturally and regionally specific care that connects or re-connects patients with the communities they call home. With each step taken to improve Oregon’s behavioral health system, lives are saved, bonds are rebuilt, and barriers to care are lowered for those who need it most.

“OHA appreciates the results of this audit and is acting with urgency on the findings,” said OHA’s Behavioral Health Division Director Ebony Clarke. “We are committed to ongoing work to strengthen oversight, responsible stewardship of Measure 110 dollars, and ensuring that every person in Oregon has access to the behavioral health services they need.”

OHA acknowledges initial implementation of Measure 110 was challenged by tight timelines and insufficient staffing. However, in the last year OHA has significantly grown and stabilized the Measure 110 program through improved leadership, management, and staffing.

As noted by the SOS Audits Division, regular legislative changes since 2020 have impacted OHA's ability to establish and stabilize BHRN programming and oversight.

OHA acknowledges past Measure 110 data limitations and has invested in Measure 110 data improvements. The data collected by the 234 grantees and submitted to OHA has increased dramatically. Through implementation of the Strategic Data Plan, OHA is already charting a forward-looking evaluative approach that emphasizes ongoing performance measures and BHRN provider-reported indicators. This method better captures program outcomes through programmatic and client-level metrics collected quarterly. These metrics will be publicly available via the BHRN program quarterly dashboard, which will provide aggregate data on program activities and service level metrics.

History of What Was Audited

Measure 110 was a ballot measure passed by Oregonians in 2020 to expand addiction services and social supports through redirected marijuana tax revenue and law enforcement savings.

As noted by the Secretary of State’s Audits Division, several legislative changes since 2020 have impacted OHA’s ability to establish and stabilize the Behavioral Health Resource Network’s (BHRN) programming and oversight. During its first years, these changes altered timelines, expectations and funding formulas. Most notably, HB 4002 (2024) shifted one of the foundational tenants of the original legal framework by recriminalizing drug possession and changed how people access BHRN services. Declining cannabis tax revenue and criminal justice cost savings have also reduced available funds.

Despite these shifts, OHA remains focused on maintaining statewide access to treatment, harm reduction and recovery services. Even with funding instability for Measure 110’s BHRNs, OHA has ensured available funds are used efficiently and effectively to support essential behavioral health services statewide.

OHA Implementation and Program Improvements

Following two previous audits, OHA continues to take clear action – responding to past findings and addressing key issues raised in the most recent review. From 2022-2025, programs receiving Measure 110 funding reported 3 million encounters with people in need of addiction and social support services. , More than 80% of the funded BHRN providers performed outreach at least once per week and approximately 40% of these providers performed outreach five or more times weekly, resulting in thousands of new clients accessing critical BHRN services.

This work is made possible in part by OHA’s substantial process improvements, including:

Leadership and Structure

• Hiring a dedicated Measure 110 Executive Director (October 2024), program manager (February 2025) and additional leadership staff (2025).
• Expanding the M110 program team from three to 18 full-time positions, providing stability and expertise.
• Embedding project management, grant administration and cross-division coordination into daily operations.

Governance and Oversight

• Reorganizing the program to ensure alignment with the OHA Director, Behavioral Health Division Director and Governor’s Office priorities and strategies.
• Successfully completing the 2025 grant process and incorporating lessons learned for the upcoming funding cycle.
• Preparing for the shift of grant-making authority from the Oversight and Accountability Council (OAC) to OHA in 2026 under Senate Bill 610 (2025).

Data and Accountability

• Launching enhanced Behavioral Health Resource Network (BHRN) grant reporting in 2025, including client-level reporting.
• Implementing standardized expenditure and staffing reporting to ensure the responsible use of every Measure 110 dollar.
• Utilizing a public facing dashboard to ensure robust data is collected and shared, including plans for additional data reporting for the current grant cycle.

Additionally, while the Audits Division recommends OHA conduct a baseline study to determine the impact of Measure 110 funded services, data limitations and the availability of appropriate data comparisons significantly hinder OHA’s ability to conduct such a study, possibly to the point of rendering it impossible. However, OHA has invested in many data improvements that will allow the agency to report out on BHRN program impact and client outcomes by 2027.

Work to Improve Access to Behavioral Health Services Continues

“We have built a responsive high performing team overseeing M110 implementation to help build a system that is coordinated, evidence-based and responsive,” Clarke said. “OHA is committed to collaborating with partners to ensure we are leading with stability, collaboration and compassion.”

OHA continues to advance the equity goals at the heart of Measure 110 by improving culturally specific services, strengthening funding processes and ensuring that communities disproportionately harmed by past drug policies have access to care.

Substance use disorder is a long-term public health challenge. OHA will continue strengthening Measure 110 implementation and ensuring that public funds are used effectively to support treatment and recovery to reduce harm and save lives across Oregon.

###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 17, 2025
MEDIA CONTACTS

• Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office Public Information: LCSheriff@co.lincoln.or.us
• Oregon Department of Emergency Management:
  licinfo@oem.oregon.gov">oem_publicinfo@oem.oregon.gov. 971-304-3310
• Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries: dogami-info@dogami.oregon.gov

___________________________________________________________________________ 

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), the Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD), and the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries (DOGAMI) are urging residents and visitors to remain vigilant as landslide hazards increase across western Oregon, particularly in Lincoln County, where a significant landslide event continues to pose serious safety risks.

The landslide, which began on December 12, has destabilized the terrain in the affected area. The ground remains highly unstable, and the approaching atmospheric river is expected to worsen conditions. Oregon Department of Transportation geologists and engineers have been conducting aerial assessments using LIDAR and drone technology but have not been able to safely enter the site due to ongoing ground movement.

Public Safety Warning for Lincoln County:

• Stay out of the landslide area, including the slope above and surrounding terrain. The ground is still settling and may shift without warning.
• Do not approach or disturb debris washing ashore along the Siletz River, Siletz Bay, or nearby beaches. It may be unstable and dangerous.
• If you find debris of a personal nature, please contact local law enforcement via non-emergency lines:
  • Lincoln City Police Department: 541-994-3636 
  • Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office: 541-265-0777
• Please follow all evacuation alerts (1. Be Ready, 2. Be Set, 3. GO NOW!) and know your evacuation routes.

Emergency Response Updates:

• Lincoln County Emergency Management’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) remains active and is coordinating with local and state partners.
• Highway 229 is closed between Milepost 14 and 15. No detour is available. Travelers should avoid the area and check TripCheck.com for updates.

Flood Watch and Landslide Risk Across Western Oregon: 

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch through Thursday night for multiple counties, including Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Tillamook, Washington, and Yamhill. The heaviest rainfall in Oregon will be Thursday and Friday, then will shift further south during the weekend. Heavy rainfall may trigger landslides and debris flows, especially in steep terrain and areas affected by recent wildfires. 

Debris Flow Safety Tips:

• Stay alert to changing conditions. Monitor weather updates via radio, TV, or weather.gov/pqr.
• Listen for unusual sounds like cracking trees or rumbling rocks.
• Watch water sources for sudden changes in flow or color.
• Travel cautiously, especially at night. Assume roads may be compromised.

Be Prepared: 

Oregon communities can reduce landslide risks through land use planning and hazard mitigation strategies. Property owners in low lying areas in and around the landslide area may wish to consider purchasing flood insurance, as it is not normally a part of standard renters or homeowners insurance. It is important to note flood insurance applies only in limited cases involving certain debris flows. It generally does not cover landslides. 

However, officials do expect the atmospheric river to cause flooding in parts of Oregon, and it is a good time to make sure you have insurance coverage for both flooding and landslides. Contact your insurance agent, or connect with an insurance advocate at the Division for Financial Regulation’s.(DFR) Consumer Hotline 1-888-877-4894 or visit their Disaster Insurance Resources page.

•  Preparing for Landslide Hazards: A Land Use Guide for Oregon Communities
• Quick Reference Sheet
• Homeowners Guide to Landslides for Oregon and Washington
• DOGAMI landslide publications and maps
• Anyone (whether you rent or own) can obtain a National Flood Insurance Program quote
• Contact your local insurance agent or visit FloodSmart.gov for additional information on flood insurance.

Stay Informed:

• Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office
  • Sign up for Lincoln Alerts to receive emergency notifications: 
  • Receive County Media Releases
  • Facebook Pages: https://www.facebook.com/lincolncountysheriff/  or www.facebook.com/lcemergencymanagement/
• Sign up for OEM Press Releases or Alerts in your area at ORAlert.gov
• Stay up to date on road conditions by calling 511 or visiting TripCheck.com.
• Visit DOGAMI’s home page and debris flow page for more information.
• Photos and video of the slide can be found on ODOT’s Flickr Album.