UMATILLA COUNTY, Ore. (7 July 2026) – On Sunday, July 5, 2026, at approximately 12:01 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Interstate 82 near milepost 2 in Umatilla County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a black Dodge Ram, operated by Adrian Lopez Clara (28) of Kennewick (WA), was traveling westbound on I-82 near Umatilla when it failed to maintain the lane of travel and left the roadway causing the vehicle to roll several times.

A Dodge passenger, Martin Romulo Diaz (42) of Kennewick (WA) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Dodge (Adrian Lopez Clara) was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.

Another Dodge passenger, Juan Lopez Nazairo (48) of Kennewick (WA), was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries.

Dodge passenger, Jesus Lopez Clara (21) of Kennewick (WA), was transported to an area hospital with minor injuries.

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

Speed and impairment are believed to be contributing factors in the crash.

OSP was assisted by the Umatilla Police Department, the Washington State Patrol, 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 responsible for investigating 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.

GRANT COUNTY, Ore. (6 July 2026) – On Sunday, July 5, 2026, at approximately 2:38 p.m., Oregon State Police responded toa single-vehicle fatal crash on Highway 7 near milepost 7 in Grant County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a gray Dodge van pulling a utility trailer, operated by Fred Lynn Doke (76) of Falls City, was traveling northbound on Hwy. 7 near Prairie City when it left the roadway for an unknown reason. The vehicle and trailer traveled down a rocky embankment where the van landed upside down with the trailer landing on top of the van.

The operator of the Dodge van (Doke) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

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

OSP was assisted by the Grant County Sheriff’s Office 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 responsible for investigating 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.

July 5, 2026-REDMOND, OR- At approximately 7:30pm this evening Redmond Fire & Rescue was alerted to a possible structure fire in the area of NW 4th St and NW Hemlock Ct.

Upon arrival fire crews observed a single story manufactured home with heavy fire coming from the front of the structure and fire threatening other nearby homes. Crews quickly deployed hoselines to keep the fire contained to the one residence.

Crews were able to keep the fire contained to the one residence. No one lives at the residence as it is used as storage by the owner. Due to the amount of items stored within the residence fire crews were only able to fiight the fire from the exterior due to safety concerns.

A fire investigator determined the cause of the fire to be from the use of illegal fireworks within the area that ignited the nearby dry vegetation that then spread to a wooden fence and then to the residence.

As a reminder the use of all fireworks, legal and illegal are not allowed within the City limits of Redmond. You can be held liable for any and all damages caused by the use of fireworks.

Redmond Fire & Rescue was assisted by Bend Fire & Rescue, Cloverdale RFPD and Redmond Police.  

July 4, 2026, REDMOND- At approximately 3:15pm this afternoon a resident located in the 2700 block of NW Greenwood Ave was altered by a passing resident of a fire on the exterior of their home.

Multiple calls to 911 reported thick black smoke and two residential homes on fire. Upon arrival of fire crews heavy fire was observed on two separate structures. With this information, the incident commander upgraded the incident to a second alarm to bring in additional resources. 

Fire crews were able to keep the fire from spreading beyond the two affected properties and limited the damage to both homes.

There were no reported injuries and everyone was able to safety escape their homes.

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. 

Redmond Fire & Rescue was assisted by Bend Fire Rescue, OSP and Redmond Police.

SALEM, Ore. - Members of the Oregon National Guard took part in ceremonies, festivities, and community events across Oregon to commemorate the 250th Anniversary of American Independence on July 4, 2026. Activities included guest speakers, color guard presentations, music performances, static displays, and flyovers. Oregon National Guard service members honored the historic Semiquincentennial, marking the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.

Air National Guard Brigadier General Jenifer E. Pardy, Joint Domestic Operations Commander, addressed attendees at the Star-Spangled Parade and Celebration at Millennium Plaza Park in Lake Oswego. She discussed the legacy of early militiamen and their significant contributions to the American Revolutionary War.

“Two hundred and fifty years ago, a group of farmers, blacksmiths, shopkeepers, and tradesmen stepped out of their homes, picked up their muskets, and changed the course of human history,” Pardy said. “They defended their families and the right to self-governance. That tradition of the Citizen-Soldiers is the oldest military tradition in America.”

The Lake Oswego celebration also featured the Oregon Army National Guard’s 741st Brigade Engineer Battalion Color Guard, who presented the Colors. The event included music, carnival games, a variety of food options, and a traditional pie-eating contest.

Pardy noted that Soldiers and Airmen of the Oregon National Guard, who uphold a tradition of service, are also your neighbors and pointed out that they may be present in this audience, working in civilian careers as “teachers, nurses, welders, or business owners.”

“Most days of the year they live the same lives you do,” she said. “But when the call comes, when a wildfire threatens a community, when floodwaters rise…and when our nation needs them overseas, they put on the uniform, and they go.”

The 142nd Wing from the Portland Air National Guard Base spent the day flying their F-15EX Eagle II jets over 30 cities in Oregon and Southwest Washington as part of their Patriot flyovers.

“These flyovers are our way of celebrating our nation’s heritage while directly connecting with the communities we serve and protect here in the Pacific Northwest,” said Col. Joshua Havanus, a fighter pilot assigned to the unit.

At the annual St. Paul Rodeo, two Oregon Army National Guard HH-60M Black Hawk helicopters from Company G, 1st Battalion, 189th Aviation Regiment flew over the grandstand right after the national anthem to celebrate the rodeo's 90th anniversary. Soldiers also brought some of their M-ATVs (MRAP All-Terrain Vehicles) for display, giving visitors a chance to meet Oregon Guardsmen and learn more about the armored vehicles.

The Oregon Army National Guard’s "No Brass, No Ammo" brass band brought Riverview Park in Independence to life with their performance. As a dynamic part of the 234th Army Band, they energize both military ceremonies and community gatherings. With lively traditional, jazz, and modern brass pieces, stirring marches, and selections from historical repertoire, "No Brass, No Ammo" shares the Army’s story through its unique musical renditions.

The concert in Independence was not the only venue where members of the 234th Army Band performed. The group “45 Away” played at the 4th of July Family Festival at Happy Valley Park in Happy Valley. This high-energy, 12-member band played family-friendly songs ranging from the 1970s to today's most popular hits. The music had attendees dancing and interacting with many members of the band, as the group was the closing act to the day-long festival.

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Released Images:

260704-Z-CH590-1278: Oregon National Guard Brig. Gen. Jenifer E. Pardy, Joint Domestic Operations Commander, delivered the Fourth of July address at the Star-Spangled Parade & Celebration in Lake Oswego, Oregon, on July 4, 2026. Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers presented the colors to kick off the celebration as attendees celebrated the 250th Anniversary of American Independence with food, music, carnival games, and an old-fashioned Pie Eating Contest. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260704-Z-CH590-1020: Oregon National Guard Brig. Gen. Jenifer E. Pardy, Joint Domestic Operations Commander, pauses for a photo with members of the Oregon Army National Guard 741st Brigade Engineer Battalion Color Guard before the start of the Star-Spangled Parade & Celebration in Lake Oswego, Oregon, on July 4, 2026. Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers presented the colors to kick off the celebration as attendees celebrated the 250th Anniversary of American Independence with food, music, carnival games, and an old-fashioned Pie Eating Contest. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260704-Z-CH590-1065: The Oregon Army National Guard 741st Brigade Engineer Battalion Color Guard conducts the Presentation of Colors to start the Star-Spangled Parade & Celebration in Lake Oswego, Oregon, on July 4, 2026. Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers presented the colors to kick off the celebration as attendees celebrated the 250th Anniversary of American Independence with food, music, carnival games, and an old-fashioned Pie Eating Contest. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260704-Z-CH590-1083: The Oregon Army National Guard 741st Brigade Engineer Battalion Color Guard conducts the Presentation of Colors to start the Star-Spangled Parade & Celebration in Lake Oswego, Oregon, on July 4, 2026. Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers presented the colors to kick off the celebration as attendees celebrated the 250th Anniversary of American Independence with food, music, carnival games, and an old-fashioned Pie Eating Contest. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260704-Z-CH590-1168: A Soldier with the Oregon Army National Guard 741st Brigade Engineer Battalion Color Guard prepares to present the colors to start the Star-Spangled Parade & Celebration in Lake Oswego, Oregon, on July 4, 2026. Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers presented the colors to kick off the celebration as attendees celebrated the 250th Anniversary of American Independence with food, music, carnival games, and an old-fashioned Pie Eating Contest. (Oregon National Guard photo by John Hughel)

260704-Z-CM403-1002: Oregon Army National Guard Sgt. Andrew Magnuson, a bass guitarist with the group "45 Away," performs at the 4th of July Family Festival at Happy Valley Park in Happy Valley, Oregon, on the evening of July 4, 2026. This high-energy, 12-member band plays family-friendly songs ranging from the 1970s to today's most popular hits. They are part of the Oregon Army National Guard's 234th Army Band, which performs at public events throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington. (Oregon National Guard photo by Aaron Perkins)

260704-Z-CM403-1001: Members of the music group "45 Away" perform at the 4th of July Family Festival held at Happy Valley Park in Happy Valley, Oregon, on the evening of July 4, 2026. They are part of the Oregon Army National Guard's 234th Army Band, which performs at public events throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington. (Oregon National Guard photo by Aaron Perkins)

260704-Z-ZJ128-1002: A flag rider carries the U.S. Army flag around the arena during a salute to the armed forces at the St. Paul Rodeo in St. Paul, Oregon, July 4, 2026. The rodeo honored each branch of military service by presenting its flag on horseback as the community celebrated the rodeo's 90th anniversary and the nation's 250th anniversary of independence. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

260704-Z-ZJ128-1001: Soldiers assigned to 2nd Battalion, 186th Infantry Regiment, Oregon Army National Guard, display an M-ATV (MRAP All-Terrain Vehicle) during the St. Paul Rodeo in St. Paul, Oregon, July 4, 2026. The static display gave rodeo attendees an opportunity to meet Oregon Guardsmen and learn about the armored vehicle, designed to protect troops from improvised explosive devices, as the rodeo celebrated its 90th anniversary and the nation marked 250 years of American independence. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

260704-Z-ZJ128-1003 & 1004: Two HH-60M Black Hawk helicopters assigned to Company G, 1st Battalion, 189th Aviation Regiment, Oregon Army National Guard, pass over the grandstand at the conclusion of the national anthem during the St. Paul Rodeo in St. Paul, Oregon, July 4, 2026. The flyover honored the rodeo's 90th anniversary and 250 years of American independence. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. W. Chris Clyne, Oregon National Guard Public Affairs)

260704-Z-NJ272-1004: Soldiers with the Oregon Army National Guard's 234th Army Band perform a musical set at Riverview Park, July 4th, 2026, in Independence, Oregon. A smaller subsection or ensemble from the full 40-person band, called "No Brass, No Ammo," performs traditional, jazz, and contemporary brass arrangements at both military functions and public performances. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. Leslie Reed, Oregon Military Department)

260704-Z-NJ272-1003: Oregon Army National Guard Sgt. Bethany Valencia, a baritone saxophone player with the 234th Army Band, performs during a musical set at Riverview Park on July 4th, 2026, in Independence, Oregon. Valencia is part of a smaller music performance team, or ensemble, called "No Brass, No Ammo," a brass band that performs at both military functions and public events. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. Leslie Reed, Oregon Military Department)

260704-Z-NJ272-1001: Oregon Army National Guard Sgt. Michael Rodriguez, a tenor saxophone player with the 234th Army Band, performs during a musical set at Riverview Park on July 4th, 2026, in Independence, Oregon. Rodriguez is part of a smaller music performance team or ensemble called "No Brass, No Ammo," which performs traditional, jazz, and contemporary brass arrangements. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. Leslie Reed, Oregon Military Department)

260704-Z-NJ272-1000: Oregon Army National Guard Spc. Dominic Stub, a trumpet player with the 234th Army Band, performs during a musical set at Riverview Park on July 4th, 2026, in Independence, Oregon. Stub is part of a smaller music performance team or ensemble called "No Brass, No Ammo," a brass band that performs at both military functions and public performances. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Maj. Leslie Reed, Oregon Military Department)

The 142nd Wing out of Portland Air National Guard Base, Portland, Oregon will conduct July 4th flyovers for ceremonies throughout Oregon and southwest Washington.

Col. Joshua Hovanas, a pilot with the 142nd Wing says he's proud to conduct these flyovers.

 “Every time the F-15s fly, it is a demonstration of our commitment to defending this nation,” remarked Hovanas. “These flyovers are our way of celebrating our nation’s heritage while directly connecting with the communities we serve and protect here in the Pacific Northwest. It’s a visual representation of the readiness, dedication, and patriotism of the Oregon Air National Guard.”

Historically, the 142nd Wing has conducted mostly northern Oregon holiday flyovers with the 173rd Fighter Wing out of Klamath Falls, Ore. covering the southern part of the state, but the 173rd recently began a transition to a new airframe and will no longer operate any aircraft until late next year. This Independence Day, the 142nd will cover the southern part of Oregon as well, making this the most flyovers the wing has ever conducted on the 4th of July.

"To honor America’s 250th, the wing developed a unique flight plan specifically designed to maximize community engagement across the Pacific Northwest," explained Hovanas. "Rather than keeping a single, traditional flight path, the pilots made the strategic decision to split the formation into separate elements. This division will allow the F-15s to cover significantly more territory simultaneously, bringing the historic celebration directly to the maximum number of communities across both Oregon and Washington – all this while still maintaining the unit's primary aerospace defense mission."

The F-15EX Eagle II fighter jets are scheduled to conduct flyovers at the following community locations at, or around, the designated times on Saturday, 4 July:

All passes will be approximately 1,000 feet above ground level and about 400 mph airspeed. Flights could be canceled or times changed due to inclement weather or operational contingencies.

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Aerial b-roll: https://www.dvidshub.net/video/752272/142nd-wing-f-15-flight-gopro-footage

About the 142nd Wing:

The Portland Air National Guard Base employs 1400 Airmen who provide an economic impact of nearly $500 million to the region. The 142nd Wing defends our homeland with F-15 Eagle fighter jets, guarding the Pacific Northwest skies from northern California to the Canadian border through their Aerospace Control Alert mission as part of Air Combat Command and the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD). Their mission is to provide unequalled, mission-ready units to sustain combat aerospace superiority and peacetime tasking any time, any place in service to our nation, state and community.

Photo Caption:

An F-15 EX from the 142nd Wing turns sharply during a fly-by at the Oregon International Air Show at Hillsboro, Ore., on May 17, 2026. The presence of the EX at the semi-annual air show gave Oregonians an up-close look at their hometown Air Force stationed at Portland Air National Guard Base in Portland, Ore. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Alexander Frank)

For more information, contact 142nd Wing Public Affairs at 142.wg.pa@us.af.mil

(Salem) – Young people in Oregon who have experienced homelessness and are pursuing higher education at eligible Oregon schools are eligible for the Oregon Department of Human Services, Youth Experiencing Homelessness Program Tuition and Fee Waiver Program.

“College can feel out of reach for young people who have experienced homelessness, and this program tells them that Oregon knows their future is worth investing in,” said Matthew Rasmussen (he/him), manager of the ODHS Youth Experiencing Homelessness Program.

“The tuition and fee waiver program means opportunity,” said Bell Cambridge (she/her), a recipient of the waiver and member of YEHP's Youth Action Board. “It is an opportunity to pursue a meaningful future and a career that I never thought possible for myself or others like me. For a long time, I believed I wasn't able or worthy enough to get the chance to pursue higher education. This program changes that. It grants youth who have been disproportionately disadvantaged a genuine chance to break the cycle. By providing access to stability and opportunity, it represents an investment in my future and a validation that my abilities and potential are not limited by my circumstances.”

Who can apply

Young people under the age of 25 who experienced unaccompanied homelessness for at least six months between ages 14 and 24, and received services when they were 16 or older from a Youth Experiencing Homelessness Program partner are eligible to apply.

There is no deadline to apply, but applicants must also have completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Oregon Student Aid Application (ORSAA). They must also be enrolled in at least one course credit towards their undergraduate degree at an Oregon public university or community college and be in good academic standing.

How to apply

Visit the ODHS Resources for Youth Experiencing Homelessness webpage for more information about the waiver program and applications. Applications are available in English and Spanish.

Young people can also request help with the application from the ODHS Youth Experiencing Homelessness Program.

How it works

The waiver covers tuition for academic credit courses, mandatory enrollment fees, one-time fees, and course fees for students pursuing a two-year or four-year undergraduate degree at an Oregon public university or community college. It is a waiver of last resort, meaning it waives any tuition and fees remaining after all other federal, state and institutional grants and scholarships have been applied.

Some financial aid sources such as loans, the Chaffee Education and Training Grant, and non-tuition scholarships from sources outside of the college, will not reduce the amount of tuition and fees waived.

More information

More information can be found online at the ODHS Resources for Youth Experiencing Homelessness webpage:

• Program Information in English and Español
• FAQs in English and Español
• Application in English and Español

The ODHS Youth Experiencing Homelessness Program Tuition and Fee Waiver Program is made possible by House Bill 4013 passed during the 2022 Session of the Oregon Legislature.

About the Oregon Department of Human Services

The mission of ODHS is to help Oregonians in their own communities achieve wellbeing and independence through opportunities that protect, empower, respect choice and preserve dignity. 

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This version of the release corrects a typo

July 7, 2026

Media contact: Franny White, anny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov">franny.l.white@oha.oregon.gov, 971-349-3539

$97M awarded across Oregon to improve rural health

OHA announces grants to advance rural healthcare in every Oregon county

SALEM, Ore. – Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is awarding about $97.1 million in additional federal funding to improve the health and well-being of Oregon’s rural communities this year. The grants will collectively support 136 new projects across all counties in the state.

With this announcement, Oregon has so far awarded about $175.3 million total to support health in rural communities this year.

“Overwhelming interest in this program demonstrates the need across Oregon,” Gov. Tina Kotek said. “At a time when Oregon’s healthcare system is facing significant funding shortfalls due to federal policies, I’m pleased to announce this next step in distributing funding to innovative projects that further the state’s goals to support maternal and child health, bolster the behavioral health workforce, and sustain safety net providers. Our goal is to move these funds as quickly as possible to these critical partnerships.”

Supported by the federal Rural Health Transformation Program, the new grants will enable community-driven projects that collectively: improve rural people’s healthcare access; increase the number of health professionals who work in rural areas; expand the use of data and technology to improve rural healthcare; and help rural communities build regional partnerships that can sustain long-term healthcare improvements.

"These awards support practical, community-driven efforts to improve access to health in rural Oregon," OHA Director Dr. Sejal Hathi said. “Rural communities know their needs best, and this funding is intended to help them strengthen local services, expand workforce capacity, and address barriers that make it harder for people to get care close to home.”

The awards are being offered through two funding pools that OHA established for Oregon’s Rural Health Transformation Program efforts. The largest – competitive Catalyst Award grants – will provide about $80.1 million to 85 organizations that will lead 103 projects addressing either maternal and child health, co-occurring mental health conditions and substance use disorder, aging in place, or chronic disease. The selected organizations will support rural health in every Oregon county.

Another $17 million will go toward Immediate Impact Awards to fund 33 new ready-to-go projects this year. These direct grants are in addition to OHA’s April announcement that it would give $6.5 million in Immediate Impact Awards to support 12 other shovel-ready projects this year. The new Immediate Impact Award projects address a broad variety of rural health needs, including: expanding mobile health units that serve areas with limited healthcare infrastructure; creating a new family medicine residency training program to grow the rural healthcare workforce; and connecting patients with nutritious food to address diet-related conditions.

“OHA is quickly distributing grants through this unique federal funding source and looks forward to supporting Oregon’s rural communities as they improve their own health for years to come,” OHA Health Policy & Analytics Director Clare Pierce-Wrobel said. “While the total funding Oregon is receiving through the Rural Health Transformation Program is relatively small when you consider the full impact of recent federal Medicaid cuts, these awards can make a huge difference for individual organizations that are doing much-needed work in rural Oregon.”

Today’s Catalyst Awards announcement includes the names of organizations that have been selected and the maximum award amounts that are available to those organizations. Exact grant amounts and other details will be finalized when award negotiations are completed this summer. More information about Catalyst Award and Immediate Impact Award recipients can be found by clicking “awards” in the top right corner on the OHA Rural Health Transformation Program homepage.

This marks the largest round of awards OHA has announced since the federal government launched the Rural Health Transformation Program in late 2025. Other rural health awards that Oregon has made to date include: $35 million in direct funding for rural hospitals; $21.7 million for the Tribal Initiative, which aims to improve healthcare access and health outcomes in rural Tribal communities based on the Nine Federally Recognized Tribes of Oregon’s needs; $10 million in direct funding for rural health clinics; and $5 million in direct funding for local public health authorities.

A federal-state partnership

The Rural Health Transformation Program was created by U.S. House Resolution 1, a federal tax and spending bill that became law in July 2025. While the law will cut an estimated $15 billion in federal funding for Oregon programs that provide health insurance, food benefits and more, it also created this federal program. The U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services will distribute a total of $50 billion nationwide between 2026 and 2031 through this program.

Oregon is receiving a total of $197.3 million in 2026 and could receive more in the following four years. If Oregon is awarded similar amounts in future years, the state could receive an estimated total of $1 billion through the program. The federal government will determine 2027 funding after it reviews Oregon’s first annual progress report, which is due by the end of August.

Through this federal program, OHA is investing in community-driven projects that improve healthcare access, boost chronic disease management and prevention, grow and sustain the healthcare workforce, and expand the use of health technology and data in Oregon’s rural and remote communities.

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The Oregon Rural Health Transformation Program is supported by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $197,271,577.67, with 100 percent funded by CMS/HHS. The contents of this release are those of OHA and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, CMS/HHS or the U.S. Government.

July 2, 2026

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

Recreational use advisory issued for Thief Valley Reservoir July 2

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory today for Thief Valley Reservoir due to laboratory results from recently-collected water samples that showed cyanotoxins above recreational use value (RUV).

A recreational use health precaution has been in place since June 12 due to the presence of a visible bloom. The lake is in Baker and Union Counties.

People should avoid swimming and other water activities with a high risk of swallowing water or inhaling water droplets in areas of the lake where blooms are present. Ingestion or inhalation of water is the exposure route of concern. Toxins are not absorbed through the skin. However, those with skin sensitivities may get a puffy red rash.

OHA’s RUVs are designed to protect the most vulnerable, including children, who have a higher activity level and are more likely to swallow water while recreating.

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

Drinking water

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

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

Symptoms for people, pets

Children and pets are at increased risk for exposure because of their size, level of activity, and likelihood of swallowing water.

For people, exposure to cyanotoxins can be serious and cause a range of symptoms. Symptoms may be similar to food poisoning such as stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Symptoms may also be more serious, such as numbness, tingling, dizziness and shortness of breath. These symptoms may require medical attention.

Dogs can get extremely ill and even die within minutes to hours of exposure to cyanotoxins by drinking the water, licking their fur, or eating the toxins from floating mats or dried crusts along the shore. This is regardless of whether a recreational use health advisory in place. Symptoms in dogs can include difficulty walking, seizures, lethargy, and loss of appetite, and more.  If a dog exhibits symptoms, veterinary treatment should be sought as quickly as possible. OHA recommends keeping dogs on leashes, away from affected water and mat material, to help reduce the chance of exposure.

Fishing

Fish caught from areas where cyanobacteria blooms are present may pose unknown health risks, so OHA recommends not eating fish from those areas. Those who decide to eat the fish should remove fat, skin and organs, where toxins are more likely to build up, before cooking or freezing. Fillets should also be rinsed with clean 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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LA GRANDE, Oregon - The La Grande Carnegie Library in downtown La Grande is among Oregon’s newest entries in the National Register of Historic Places. Oregon’s State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation (SACHP) recommended the nomination at its February 2026 meeting for the property’s significance in advancing public educational opportunities in La Grande and as a fine example of Classical Revival architecture. The National Park Service, which maintains the National Register, accepted the nomination in late June 2026.
 

Constructed in 1913 with funding from the Carnegie Corporation, the La Grande Carnegie Library reflects the city’s early twentieth‑century commitment to expanding public access to information and educational opportunity. The library served as an educational hub for the community from its construction in 1913, supporting the work of La Grande’s public schools while also providing essential self‑education resources for adults. Library staff collaborated with teachers, offered children’s story times and summer reading programs, and maintained branch collections in remote schools. In the 1920s, the library briefly held the fifth‑highest circulation of any public library in Oregon. Its sustained use for educational purposes--as a public library through 2005 and currently as an arts and cultural center--underscores its historic role as a cornerstone of community learning and intellectual life.
 

Architecturally, the La Grande Carnegie Library is an excellent and well‑preserved example of Classical Revival design and an outstanding representative of the Carnegie Library Program’s recommended building typology. Designed by the La Grande firm Bunting & Block, the building features hallmark characteristics of Carnegie‑funded libraries, including a rectangular plan, a prominent central staircase leading to an elevated entrance, and an interior layout that emphasized efficiency and librarian supervision. Its symmetrical façade, brick construction, hipped roof, molded cornice with decorative modillions, and pedimented main entrance reflect the classically inspired style that defined several of the civic and government buildings constructed in La Grande during the 1910s. Today, the library retains a high degree of integrity and continues to convey both its architectural character and its historic function as an important public educational institution in La Grande.
 

The National Register of Historic Places

The National Register of Historic Places is maintained by the National Park Service under the authority of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. Properties listed in the National Register are:

• Recognized as significant to the nation, state, or community;
• Considered in the planning of federal or federally assisted projects;
• Eligible for certain federal and state tax benefits;
• Qualified for historic preservation grants when funds are available;
• Eligible for leniency in meeting certain building code requirements;
• Subject to local laws pertaining to the conservation and protection of historic resources.

State law in Oregon requires local governments to offer a minimal level of protection for properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places; decisions about how to accomplish that goal reside with local governments, which also have the authority to create and regulate local historic districts and landmarks.
 

Interested in learning more about the National Register of Historic Places? Visit the National Register program webpage at https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/OH/pages/national-register.aspx to explore listed properties, review eligibility criteria and the nomination timeline, access research tools, and—if you are curious whether your property might qualify—submit a Historic Resource Record (HRR) form to receive preliminary feedback from State Historic Preservation Office staff.

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The Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries (OCHC) will meet in Hood River at the Rockford Grange Hall,4262 Barrett Drive in Hood River, and via online meeting on July 16 at 1:00 p.m. The agenda includes presentations on living history in historic cemeteries, cemetery landscape, and the 2025 historic cemeteries grant projects. The meeting is open to the public and the agenda includes an opportunity for public comment. Meeting information is on the agenda or you can follow this link to register for online access information.
 

State law established the seven-member Commission to maintain a listing of all historic cemeteries and gravesites in Oregon; promote public education on the significance of historic cemeteries; and help obtain financial and technical assistance for restoring, improving and maintaining their appearances. For more information about commission activities, contact coordinator Koren Tippett at 503-304-4737 or by e-mail at en.tippett@oprd.oregon.gov">koren.tippett@oprd.oregon.gov.
 

Special accommodations for the meeting – including translation services – may be made by calling (503) 986‐0609 or erly.Spivey@oprd.oregon.gov">Kimberly.Spivey@oprd.oregon.gov at least 72 hours prior to the start of the meeting. For call-in details and the agenda or more information about the commission, visit www.oregonheritage.org.

PORTLAND, Ore.—Terell Wayne Overton, 51, of Portland, Oregon, has been charged by criminal complaint with felon in possession of a firearm and theft of a firearm after multiple victims reported firearms stolen at the Portland International Airport.

According to court documents, in June 2026, the Port of Portland Police began receiving a series of calls from airline passengers traveling through Portland International Airport reporting that their firearms did not arrive at their destinations and were missing. On June 28, 2026, a victim called to report their firearm was stolen, which had an Apple AirTag inside the locked case. Police used the AirTag information, which led them to Overton and a black backpack.

Pursuant to a search warrant, investigators searched the backpack and found a locked handgun case containing the handgun the victim had reported stolen.

Overton made his first appearance in federal court yesterday before a U.S. magistrate judge. He was ordered released pending further court proceedings.

U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon made the announcement.

The FBI, Port of Portland Police, and PDX Task Force are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Kerin 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.

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PORTLAND, Ore.—A Warm Springs, Oregon, man, was sentenced to federal prison Monday after sexually exploiting a minor victim, recording it, and uploading it online, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon.

Odysseus Japeth Tewee, 20, was sentenced to 180 months in federal prison and 10 years of supervised release.

According to court documents, on September 23, 2024, Portland Police Bureau (PPB) received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children regarding a video containing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) from Warm Springs. PPB identified Tewee as the suspect and contacted the Warm Springs Police Department (WSPD). Within hours, WSPD and the FBI identified the minor victim, located Tewee, and placed him in custody. Pursuant to a search warrant, the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) found over 100 images and 9 videos of CSAM on Tewee’s phone.

On October 16, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a four-count indictment charging Tewee with sexual exploitation of a child, possession and transportation of child pornography, and sexual abusive contact.

On January 5, 2026, Tewee pleaded guilty to sexual exploitation of a child.

Federal and local law enforcement partners across the state assisted in identifying and apprehending Tewee. This case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from WSPD, PPB, and DCSO. Assistant U.S. Attorney Pam Paaso prosecuted this case.

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

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Funding supports summer camp scholarships, foster youth mentorship, childhood literacy, housing stability and food security programs across the region

PORTLAND, Ore. — OnPoint Community Credit Union has awarded more than $500,000 in grants to 59 nonprofit organizations across Oregon and Southwest Washington through its bi-annual Community Grants & Giving program. The funding supports programs focused on education, foster youth, food security, housing stability, workforce development and access to summer camp for underserved kids.

“Support from community partners like OnPoint couldn’t come at a better time as summer camp season gets underway and families look for affordable opportunities for their children,” said Dani Thompson of the Willamalane Park Foundation, which received $15,000 for summer camp scholarships. “OnPoint’s generosity helps ensure local kids have access to safe, enriching summer experiences while providing families with childcare support. We’re honored to be part of this round of grant recipients and grateful for OnPoint’s investment in local youth and families.”

Bi-annual grant program supports local nonprofits year-round

OnPoint’s Community Grants & Giving program is part of the credit union’s mission to build strong communities. The initiative awards grants to community-based organizations whose work aligns with the credit union’s core impact values, including education, financial wellness, housing stability, food security and youth development.

“Investing in the well-being of our communities is central to who we are,” said Rob Stuart, president and chief executive officer, OnPoint Community Credit Union. “These organizations are doing critical work to create opportunity, stability and connection for people across our region, and we’re proud to help support their missions.”

Eligible nonprofit organizations can apply for programmatic or general operating support during two annual application periods held each spring and fall. Funding decisions are made by OnPoint’s Community Relations Committee within 90 days of each application cycle closing. Apply for a grant here.

Below is a selection of this year’s spring grant recipients:

• $15,000 for Dream for Life Outreach to expand community meal and outreach programs serving people facing food insecurity in Southwest Washington. Rising food costs have made it even more difficult for vulnerable populations to meet basic needs. The donation will help sustain and expand these efforts by covering the costs of food, meal-preparation supplies, serving equipment and outreach materials. Funding will also support Dream for Life Outreach’s ability to host larger community meal events and continue providing free meals, including its annual holiday community meal.
• SMART Reading received $20,000 to support literacy programming and the distribution of inclusive books for children in Title I schools in Marion, Polk and other counties across the state. The funding will help recruit and train volunteers, expand access to diverse books and strengthen family literacy engagement efforts. The support comes at a critical time, as only 40% of Oregon third graders met or exceeded reading standards in 2025. Research shows children who are not reading proficiently by third grade are significantly less likely to graduate high school and more likely to experience poverty and housing insecurity later in life.
• $10,000 to Willamalane Park Foundation to provide scholarships for kids in Springfield to attend summer camp, regardless of financial barriers. The donation also helps working families access reliable childcare and recreation opportunities during the summer months. Willamalane Park & Recreation District serves more than 300 children across 15 camps and more than 100 weeks of programming.
• $5,000 to Salem Angels to support mentorship and relationship-building programs for local foster youth and families experiencing foster care. The funding comes as Oregon continues facing significant foster care challenges. Nearly 6,800 children experienced foster care statewide last year, including nearly 570 in Marion and Polk counties. Marion County has seen a 72% decrease in the number of available general foster homes since 2012. Salem Angels works to reverse this trend, providing personalized care packages and resources for foster families, as well as mentorship opportunities for youth. Salem Angels also provides relationship-building support designed to help children build confidence, stability and community connections.
• $3,500 to BendNEXT to fund leadership development scholarships for 10 emerging leaders in Central Oregon. The program includes skills-development workshops, networking opportunities and year-round mentorship circles designed to help strengthen the region’s workforce pipeline. The support comes as Central Oregon employers continue facing workforce challenges tied to high housing costs and childcare shortages, which can create barriers to professional development and long-term talent retention. This grant funding helps grow tomorrow’s leaders and help them further engage in Central Oregon’s long-term vitality.

A 94-year legacy of building strong communities

In addition to its quarterly grant program, OnPoint supports communities year-round through event sponsorships, employee volunteerism, financial education initiatives and nonprofit partnerships across Oregon and Southwest Washington. Since its founding by schoolteachers in 1932, community investment has remained central to OnPoint’s mission. In 2025, OnPoint donated more than $4 million to more than 350 nonprofit organizations throughout the region.

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About OnPoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in Oregon, serving more than 648,000 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.

Federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Opportunity.

OnPoint says financial preparation remains essential as homebuyers gain more negotiating power

PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon's housing market is giving buyers more opportunities than it has in recent years, with inventory up, asking prices moderating and homes taking longer to sell.

"The focal point of your mortgage journey should always be about the home; the loan is just a tool to achieve the home,” said Dustin Johnsen, Mortgage Loan Officer at OnPoint Community Credit Union. “Find a lender you can trust, that communicates thoroughly and is flexible and creative. Do what you can to get into your first home and build your life forward with that momentum.”

Oregon's housing market is more balanced, but local trends vary

According to Realtor.com's June 2026 housing data, active housing inventory across Oregon is up 47.59% from three years ago and 6.59% from a year ago. Homes now spend a median of 52 days on the market, giving buyers more time to compare properties and make informed decisions. While affordability remains a challenge as mortgage rates stay elevated, increased inventory and a slower pace of sales are giving buyers advantages and new opportunities.

Trends are playing out differently across Oregon's housing markets. Bend continues to see strong inventory growth despite higher home prices. Portland’s listing prices have softened, making way for buyer opportunities and negotiating leverage, especially for first-time buyers. Eugene remains an active market, with homes selling quickly and buyers still benefiting from more inventory than they had just a few years ago.

Making the most of today’s housing market

Today's market offers buyers more opportunities, but preparation remains key. OnPoint recommends the following strategies to help buyers make informed financial decisions and navigate their local housing market with confidence:

1. Let your budget, not the market, guide your decision. While inventory has improved across much of Oregon, affordability remains a challenge. Before making an offer, look beyond the mortgage payment and consider property taxes, homeowners' insurance, utilities, maintenance, and other ongoing costs to determine what comfortably fits within your monthly budget.
2. Choose a mortgage lender early and get pre-approved. Connecting with a trusted mortgage lender before you begin your home search can help you understand your budget, compare loan options and secure a pre-approval. It also positions you to move quickly when you find the right home and gives you a knowledgeable resource to guide you through the process.
3. Understand your local market. Housing conditions can vary significantly from one Oregon community to another. Understanding inventory levels, pricing trends and how quickly homes are selling in the neighborhoods you're considering can help you set realistic expectations and identify opportunities to negotiate.
4. Focus on your long-term goals, not short-term market movements. No one can predict exactly where mortgage rates or home prices will go next. Rather than trying to perfectly time the market, focus on purchasing a home you can comfortably afford that supports your long-term financial goals. If interest rates decline in the future, refinancing may become an option.

“Life is full of uncertainties, so focus on maximizing and controlling the present,” Johnsen said. “Being a homeowner gives you control over your daily living experiences and overall happiness, as well as financial security. And remember that you have the option to move money around later through a refinance is the rate market changes, or one’s personal situation changes.”

For more information about mortgage options, pre-approval tools and homebuying resources, visit www.onpointcu.com/home-loans or call 971.231.0090 to speak with an OnPoint mortgage loan officer.

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About OnPoint Community Credit Union

OnPoint Community Credit Union is the largest credit union headquartered in Oregon, serving more than 648,000 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.

Federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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