Oregon Beach News, Wednesday 6/25 – Lincoln County School District Employee Convicted of Raping Student, Lane County Considers Opening Opioid Addiction Clinic in Florence & Other Local and Statewide News…

The latest news stories across the state of Oregon from the digital home of the Oregon coastal cities, OregonBeachMagazine.com

Wednesday, June 25 , 2025

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Lincoln County School District Employee Convicted of Raping Student

On June 24, 2025, Lincoln County Circuit Court Presiding Judge Sheryl Bachart sentenced Angela Schafer (53-year-old) to 18 months in the Department of Corrections for sexually abusing a Taft High School student while Schafer was employed by the school district.  

Schafer was employed by the Lincoln County School District in 2022 as a Health Services Advocate serving at Taft High School, Lincoln City, Oregon. In September 2024, Lincoln City Police Department (LCPD) initiated an investigation after allegations surfaced regarding an inappropriate relationship between Schafer and a student earlier that year. After an extensive investigation by Detective Bud Lane (LCPD), Schafer was officially indicted by the Lincoln County Grand Jury in November 2024.

On June 24, 2025, Schafer entered a guilty plea to one count of Rape in the Third Degree for knowingly engaging in sexual intercourse with a child under the age of sixteen and one count of Furnishing Alcohol to a Minor. Under Oregon sentencing guidelines, Schafer was initially subject to a probationary sentence given her lack of criminal history. However, given the vulnerability of the victim and Schafer’s position of power or trust over the victim, the State planned to seek a prison sentence through enhancement factors after trial.

Ultimately, through plea negotiations, Schafer stipulated to an 18-month prison sentence with an agreement that Judge Bachart would decide whether the prison sentence would be served immediately or held in abeyance while Schafer was supervised locally in the community. At sentencing, DA Wallace advocated for Schafer to be sentenced to an upfront 18-month prison sentence given the role Schafer’s employment played in her crimes and the particular vulnerability of the victim. Defense argued that Schafer should be placed on probation given the viable treatment options in the community.  

Prior to sentencing Schafer, Judge Bachart stated, “You never know who is capable of doing this; it can be anybody. Some people are put in positions with greater access to children and you used your position, the access you had to this child, and his vulnerability to sexually abuse him – the aggravating factors are significant.” Judge Bachart sentenced Schafer to 18 months prison and Schafer was taken into custody and began serving her sentence today. Schafer will also be required to register as a sex offender, complete an alcohol and drug treatment program, and pay a $8,500 fine. — This case was prosecuted by District Attorney Jenna Wallace.

The City of Newport Parks and Recreation · There’s still space in our kitchen for you to join in on the BBQ fun!

Join us Wednesday, June 26th, from 5:30-7:30pm, for a class in quick and easy BBQ sides and desserts. Click here to register: https://secure.rec1.com/OR/newport-or/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTM3Mjc3MDQ=

Lane County Considers Opening Opioid Addiction Clinic in Florence

There are no methadone clinics on the Oregon coast for 200 miles between Seaside and Coos Bay. The distance has led some people to stop taking the treatment entirely.

The county wants to create a satellite of its treatment center in Eugene, which provides drug-assisted care using methadone or buprenorphine, two lower-risk opioids.

According to the county, there are currently no methadone clinics on the Oregon coast between Seaside and Coos Bay—a more than 200-mile stretch.

Lane County Treatment Center’s Clinical Supervisor Carla Ayres said some patients from Florence travel to Eugene frequently, even daily, for their doses. She said the long drive has led some people to stop treatment altogether.

“It’s hard to have a job, it’s hard to take care of kids, go to school, do all the things you normally do if you’re spending a huge amount of time transporting back and forth for medication,” said Ayres.

Earlier this month, Lane County Commissioners approved plans to buy a building in northern Florence along Highway 101 for more than $1.7 million. The County Administrator still has to finalize the purchase.

A county official said there would be a public outreach and feedback process before opening it as a treatment facility.

Terry Fields, the Program Manager for the Lane County Treatment Center, said when they moved to their current location in Eugene, it faced misconceptions and opposition from some community members about living near a treatment clinic.

Ayres, the Clinical Supervisor, said many of the people who receive methadone are working and living like anyone else in the community, and many would never know they rely on the treatment.

“It’s not like we’re going to enter into the community and all these people are going to show up afterwards,” said Ayres. “Florence already has this as an issue, and we want to come in and help create a healthier community, healthier moms and dads, healthier workers, healthier people.”

County staff estimate that the Florence facility would serve up to 30 clients in Lane County immediately, and up to 100 clients in its first year. (SOURCE)

United Way Report Shows Half of Households In Florence Area Earn Below Livable Income

Half, 50%, one in two households in and around Florence, from Mapleton to Dunes City, earn below a livable wage. It is an antiseptic way of describing how many families struggle each month to pay for a place to live, and for food, clothes, medicine, gas for their cars, and childcare for their kids.

The number comes from the United Way’s most recent ALICE report, using data from 2023 (the most recent complete data set available). By comparison, 42% of Oregon households and American households nationally earn below a sustainable income, according to the report. (READ MORE)

**The Department of Housing and Urban Development’s annual point in time count, conducted in January 2024, found 22,875 of Oregon’s roughly 4.2 million residents experienced homelessness. About 62% of those individuals lacked shelter.

First Step Florence focuses on helping families in the Florence, Oregon  area  who are  in  need of safe, stable, transitional housing.  We offer the only transitional housing program in the Florence region.

https://firststepflorence.org/

The City of Newport Announces Upcoming Changes to Utility Billing and Services

On July 1, water, wastewater, and stormwater rates will each see a 6% increase for residential services and a 10% increase for commercial services. These rate increases were included in the City’s adopted 2025-26 budget to help fund critical infrastructure and capital projects for all three services. These adjustments would raise the combined water, wastewater, and stormwater bill of a residential customer using 4,000 gallons of water from $147.23 to $156.07 per month.

Also included in the adopted budget is the elimination of the City’s utility deposit. Currently, the standard residential deposit begins at $375 to start services, and can increase based on the size of the water line. Eligible customers will receive refunds of their previous deposits. The City of Newport is in the process of creating a refund plan and will notify the community regarding eligibility and refunds when the plan is finalized.

The City is also making a change to its online payment vendor. Starting June 25, online payments will be processed through Xpress Bill Pay, the premier local government and service district payment provider. This switch will provide customers with support services, full bill presentation, auto pay, and many other convenient features. Customers may also now make payments using Discover Card along with Visa and Mastercard. There will be no additional fees to customers for using Xpress Bill Pay. Customers wishing to pay online, including those on auto pay, will need to re-register their accounts at XpressBillPay.com, and create a new account with a username and password.

If preferred, utility customers may still pay their bill in person, at the outdoor payment drop box in front of Newport City Hall, by mail, or by phone at (888) 602-8715 or (541) 574-0611.  

As part of the new online payment system, business license holders will now be able to renew their licenses online for the first time. More information will be provided when business license renewal forms are mailed out after July 1. The City plans to announce further enhancements to its online payment offerings throughout the next year.

Face Rock Creamery, based in Bandon, is recalling two specific batches of its Vampire Slayer Garlic Cheddar Curds over a possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.

The recall is for 6 oz. cups with use-by date of 08292025, which were sold at Trader Joe’s locations in Northern California and Northern Nevada.

According to the Food & Drug Administration: The Vampire Slayer Garlic Cheddar Curds was packaged in a clear in a sealed plastic cup with lid and has the UPC 8 51222 00528 7. It has the Lot numbers 20250519VS01 and 20250519VS02, and the Use By date of 08292025.

Listeria can cause serious illness and even death in young, elderly, or groups with weakened immune systems.

“Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women,” the FDA said.

In a stunning reversal, officials say Cannon Beach election results are the opposite of how they appeared

A divisive election in the quaint Oregon Coast town of Cannon Beach just brought the community a renewed wave of upheaval, after county election officials revealed that the unofficial results of two competing ballot measures had been flipped in all previous reporting.

When the dust settled after the May 2025 special election, it looked as if a push to require public votes on all expensive city projects had narrowly won. Instead, the Clatsop County Elections office said Wednesday, it was the status quo which was winning all along.

The former, Measure 04-235, was the result of a citizen petition and would require an election to approve any city project expected to cost over $6.5 million funded by non-emergency finances. This would essentially take that decision-making power away from the elected city council — which supporters argue is the point. They think that the public should have a say in all decisions of that scale.

In response, the city council created an opposing initiative, Measure 04-236, which would clarify the city charter and essentially enshrine the status quo — the elected five-member city council would have the power to approve spending, keeping them eligible for vital grants that generally require a more decisive process.

At the end of May, the unofficial results showed the races for both measures too close to call. However, yes votes had a narrow lead on 4-235 and no votes on 4-236. And with an electorate the size of a small city, it was unlikely that a recount would shift things all that much.

But this week, something happened. The Oregon Secretary of State’s office added a message to the top of the results page for Clatsop County:

“Results for City of Cannon Beach Measure 04-235 and Measure 04-236 were mistakenly reversed. The error is a result of a State administrative user hand-entering two identifying numbers incorrectly. The measure numbers have been corrected, and an audit of all election results concluded.”

Now, following the reversal and the audit, Measure 4-235 (for a public vote) failed by just nine votes, while Measure 4-236 (for the status quo) passed by a 13-vote margin. The error and resulting correction flipped the election’s apparent outcome on its head.

Clatsop County Elections confirmed the issue in a statement issued Wednesday, explaining that the results on the Oregon Secretary of State’s website were incorrectly labeled online, as Measure 04-235 was shown as 04-236 and vice versa. Vote counts were not affected, the agency stressed. 

No other unofficial election results were impacted with similar errors, and the website has corrected the listings, said Clatsop County Elections. The issue didn’t stem from Clatsop County’s own results, which were reported correctly.

“The Secretary of State’s office takes full responsibility for the error that caused the results for two ballot measures in Cannon Beach to be flipped in the unofficial election night reporting website,” Deputy Oregon Secretary of State Michael Kaplan said in a statement.

“We conducted a full review of the unofficial results for every other race in the state and confirmed this was an isolated incident,” Kaplan continued. “We are adding additional controls to prevent errors like this from happening again because we know Oregonians are counting on us to get this right.” (SOURCE)

Clatsop County voters with questions may contact the county clerk at 503-325-8511 or visit the county’s election website.

Judge Extends Temporary Freeze on Trump’s Effort to Eliminate Job Corps

A New York-based federal judge extended until next Wednesday his order temporarily blocking the US Department of Labor from shutting down its Job Corps training program for low-income young adults.

Judge Andrew L. Carter Jr. on Tuesday seemed skeptical of Trump administration arguments that shutting down operations at nearly 100 Job Corps centers nationwide is different from ending the program entirely—something that only Congress can approve.

Students and staff at Job Corps centers nationwide are facing whiplash as the program starts and stops due to Trump’s policy and the ensuing legal challenge. Some participants have even chosen to leave Job Corps entirely.

It’s “interesting” that the Department of Labor’s decision comes at the same that the administration is pushing a budget that would eliminate Job Corps, Carter of the US District Court for the Southern District of New York said at a preliminary injunction hearing.

“How should I consider this coincidence?” he asked attorneys for both sides.

The federal budget request is “just another indication of what the Department of Labor is doing here,” said Hecker Fink LLP’s Max Feldman, arguing on behalf of the plaintiffs challenging the agency’s decision.

Justice Department attorney Jean-David Barnea, however, said it’s not clear the two actions are related. “They have a relationship” but it shouldn’t influence the court’s view, he said.

The DOL initially announced it was directing 99 Job Corps centers throughout the US to shut down operations on May 29. Days later, the National Job Corps Association, several Job Corps contractors, the Transportation Communications Union/IAM, and one Job Corps student, filed a lawsuit against the action and Carter, an Obama appointee, soon put the shutdown on pause.

A preliminary injunction would potentially extend the emergency relief Carter signed off on June 4, which has for now preserved the training program that serves roughly 30,000 people aged 16-24 nationwide.

Barnea noted that 24 centers across 15 states remain unaffected by the contract termination orders, but Carter doubted it can still be considered a national program with so few centers in operation. Neither side could answer in the moment which states still have operational centers.

The dispute seems to be centered on a broader policy issue of closing down the program, Carter said, hinting he disagrees with the Justice Department’s argument that the issue is contractual and thus must be adjudicated by the US Court of Federal Claims.

Carter also expressed concern about the Job Corps participants who will be affected by the center closures. Job Corps, which started in 1964, provides job training, housing, food, and stipends to low-income people across the country. In exchange, participants receive a high school diploma or equivalent training certifications in trades such as nursing, mechanics, and welding.

At least one named plaintiff was homeless before joining the program, but the government argued individual program participants don’t have standing to sue because they’re not parties to the center contracts. Barnea said that the named plaintiff and other participants would be sent back to their previous residence of record when the centers cease operations. “I know some are homeless, but even they had a residence of record” when they applied, he said.

“It seems like more than a minor upheaval,” Carter said. “If she is being removed from her residence and sent back to a homeless shelter, why is that not an injury that establishes standing?”

The groups in their brief argued the closure of the program goes beyond the DOL’s authority and violates the Administrative Procedure Act and separation of powers. Specifically, the DOL’s efforts to end Job Corps run afoul of the Impoundment Control Act and the Anti-Deficiency Act, the plaintiffs say.

In response to the lawsuit, the DOL has argued that the district court isn’t the proper venue to hear the case, and that the Court of Federal Claims has exclusive jurisdiction over federal contract disputes. The agency said it was shuttering the program due to high costs, poor outcomes for students, and safety issues at Job Corps centers.

Amy Jeffress of Hecker Fink LLP also represents the National Job Corps Association. Benjamin White of Bloch & White LLP represents Job Corps student Jocelyn Rivera.

Adams and Associates Inc.’s general counsel Tiffinay Barker Pagni represents the contractor in the case. International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers’ general counsel Carla M. Siegel represents the transportation union.

The case is Nat’l Job Corps Ass’n v. DOL, S.D.N.Y., No. 25-04641, preliminary injunction hearing 6/17/25.

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The Tongue Point Job Corps Center in Astoria notified state officials that it expects to close by June 30 amid cuts to federal workforce program, eliminating 168 jobs.

Then a U.S. judge on temporarily stopped the Trump administration from moving ahead with an effort to eliminate the Job Corps, the largest U.S. job training program for low-income youth.

U.S. District Judge Andrew Carter in Manhattan issued a temporary restraining order in a lawsuit filed by a trade group representing contractors that operate Job Corps centers. Carter ordered the government not to terminate Job Corps contractors or stop work at Job Corps centers until a further ruling in the case, and he ordered the Labor Department to appear at a court hearing on June 17.

Supporters of Job Corps are asking the community to contact their congress members and urge them to help save the program.

While some students at the Tongue Point Job Corps Center in Astoria are rushing to finish their courses, others are scrambling to figure out what comes next.

As the U.S. Department of Labor plans to shut down nearly 100 Job Corps Centers nationwide, including the Astoria facility, many of the students feel their futures are being threatened as the situation remains in limbo.

The closure will mean the elimination of 168 jobs, including instructors, admissions counselors and advisers, according to a new filing with Oregon’s Higher Education Coordinating Commission, which is required when mass layoffs occur.

Job Corps is a free vocational training program funded by the U.S. Department of Labor for people ages 16 to 24. The Labor Department said last month it would “pause” the program.

Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer — who for one term represented Oregon’s 5th Congressional District — said the program “is no longer achieving the intended outcomes that students deserve.”

The contract for the Astoria center was “terminated” as of June 30, according to the state filing. A new operator is not expected to be named.

“The U.S. Department of Labor ordered Tongue Point to send all students home by June 6th,” Oregon U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley said in a May statement to The Oregonian/OregonLive.

“This sudden shutdown of programs at the three Job Corps sites in Oregon is a devastating blow to the hundreds of youth striving to learn a craft and stand on their own feet,” Merkley added. “I’ll do what I can to reverse this brutal decision.” ——— Tongue Point Job Corp Center: https://tonguepoint.jobcorps.gov/

Southern Oregon Coast Pride   ·  We’re Hiring!

Southern Oregon Coast Pride is looking for a passionate, organized, and community-rooted leader to join our team as a Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator! Semi-Remote | Based in Coos, Curry, or Del Norte Counties Full-Time | $55K–$58K + benefits Flexible schedule with evenings/weekends as needed Travel required within Coos & Curry Counties (mileage reimbursed)

You’ll lead event planning for Pride in the Park, support our Gender Affirmation Closet, organize volunteers, and help foster joy and resilience in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Center equity. Build relationships. Uplift community. Review the job description: http://bit.ly/40gCrI2 and send your resume + cover letter to Laura Erceg at pride@unitedwayswo.org.

Gleneden Beach Community Club

· Mark your calendar for the July 4th Pancake Breakfast. Free patriotic bracelets (while quantities last). Take your photo with Uncle Sam.

Cannon Beach Gallery   · Calling all Artists!

Our 2026 submission window is now open. Any interested artists can submit a proposal online to be featured in our main gallery space. All applications should include digital images of artwork and a written description of what the artist is proposing to exhibit, along with any other materials that may help the Gallery Committee make selections.

The Committee reviews artist’s packets during the Month of August. Deadline: July 31, 2025.Link to Application:https://docs.google.com/…/1FAIpQLSdk4S5X7N8…/viewform…

SOLVE Launches Summer with SOLVE Campaign to Take Action and Preserve Outdoor Spaces

– Summer is here, and with it comes more opportunities to enjoy the PNW’s beaches, parks, and rivers. However, the increased outdoor activity also leads to more litter and strain on the environment. To combat this, SOLVE is launching its Summer with SOLVE campaign, designed to take action, connect communities, and celebrate the beauty of our region through environmental action.

“Summer is a time to enjoy the outdoors, but it’s also a time to ensure these spaces remain clean and sustainable for future generations,” said Kris Carico, CEO of SOLVE. “Together, we can create cleaner, more inviting spaces that reflect our pride in our region and our commitment to caring for the environment. By working together, we can make a significant impact and inspire others to join in the effort to protect our natural spaces that we love to enjoy, especially during summer.”

SOLVE kicked off summer with Pick It Up, Portland!, a citywide celebration on World Environment Day, June 5. The event focused on four different locations across Portland: Market Street Downtown, Holladay Park, Sellwood Riverfront Park, and Eastbank Esplanade. This was the first of many volunteer opportunities offered by SOLVE this summer, with more projects planned throughout the season, including the ongoing Waterway Cleanup Series, protecting the health of local rivers, streams and creeks.

What You’ll See This Summer

As outdoor recreation increases, SOLVE volunteers will:

• Remove litter from parks, neighborhoods, beaches, and riverbanks
• Maintain recreation sites and public green spaces
• Mulch around native trees and shrubs
• Remove invasive plant species that thrive in summer months like Japanese knotweed, Himalayan blackberry, and Scotch broom

Key Summer Events:

• Afterglow: Post-4th Cleanups (July 5-6): Volunteers will tackle the debris left behind from holiday celebrations to help restore outdoor spaces and shorelines.
• Willamette River Cleanup (August 9): A focused cleanup of the Willamette River, combating litter both on the water and along the riverbanks.
• Waterway Cleanup Series (ongoing through September): A series of cleanup efforts dedicated to preserving Oregon’s rivers and streams during the peak outdoor season.
• Monthly Detrash Portland Events: Community cleanups in Portland’s business districts, focusing on revitalizing key areas in the city.

Looking ahead, SOLVE is also preparing for its annual Beach & Riverside Cleanup, September 20-28, part of the global International Coastal Cleanup, World Rivers Day and National Public Lands Day initiatives.

Join Summer with SOLVE

This summer, SOLVE invites you to take part in protecting and preserving the natural spaces that make our region special. Whether you’re volunteering at a cleanup event, leading your own group, or taking on a DIY project, there’s a way for everyone to get involved.

Try the Trash Bag Challenge—pick up a bag of litter, then challenge friends or coworkers to do the same. Pass the bag, spread the impact, and inspire others to take action.

Every effort counts. Together, we can keep our neighborhoods, parks, and waterways clean and beautiful for generations to come.

For more information about Summer with SOLVE and how to get involved, visit solveoregon.org/seasons or follow us on social media.

About SOLVE

SOLVE brings communities together to take care of our environment and enhance our waterways. Since 1969, the organization has grown from a small, grassroots initiative to a national model of volunteer action. Today, SOLVE mobilizes and trains thousands of volunteers of all ages across Oregon, and SW Washington, to clean and restore our neighborhoods and natural areas, while empowering a community of environmental stewards for our state. Visit solveoregon.org for more information.

The Lincoln County Fire Defense Board and Oregon Department of Forestry have announced the continuation of their annual debris burn ban, effective June 15, 2025, through October 15, 2025.

This proactive measure comes amidst increasingly dry conditions and aims to mitigate the growing risk of wildfires across the region. Fire danger continues to increase each year, and these consistent dates allow residents to plan accordingly. The established four-month ban specifically targets open yard debris burning, a common cause of uncontrolled fires.

While the ban prohibits yard debris burning, officials clarified that it does not include recreational campfires, propane or patio fireplaces, or charcoal barbecue grills, unless specific fire weather conditions are present or forecasted. Residents are advised to exercise extreme caution with any outdoor flames and to always have a water source and tools readily available to extinguish any embers.

Individual fire districts within Lincoln County retain the authority to adjust ban dates based on localized weather patterns and specific fire risk assessments. Therefore, residents are strongly encouraged to check with their local fire agency for district-specific restrictions and guidance before engaging in any outdoor burning activities.

Safety Message from your local Fire Agencies:

As we head into the drier months, it’s crucial for everyone to play a part in preventing wildfires. Even seemingly small actions can have devastating consequences. Please remember:

• Know before you burn: Always check with your local fire district for the latest burn restrictions and guidance. Conditions can change rapidly.
• Be vigilant with permitted activities: Even with allowed recreational fires or barbecues, never leave them unattended. Ensure all embers are completely extinguished before leaving the area.
• Clear defensible space: Maintain a clear area around your home free of flammable materials. This can significantly improve your property’s chances of surviving a wildfire.
• Have an escape plan: In the event of a wildfire, know your evacuation routes and have a “go kit” ready.
• Report suspicious activity: If you see smoke or suspect an uncontrolled fire, call 911 immediately.

By working together and prioritizing fire safety, we can protect our homes, our communities, and our beautiful natural resources from the devastating impact of wildfires. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and stay safe, Lincoln County.

Clatsop Community College Is Offering a Free Term to Students Affected by Tongue Point Job Corps Closure

Clatsop Community College is offering students impacted by the closure of the Tongue Point Job Corps a free term of classes to assist with their career goals moving forward. Thanks to a generous donation from Hampton Lumber to the CCC Foundation, the College is able to offer a term of free tuition, fees, and books to eligible students.

Students can choose from a wide range of classes starting fall term including Accounting, Automotive, Business, CADD, Criminal Justice, EMT, Fire Science, Historic Preservation & Restoration, Maritime Science, Medical Assistant, CNA, and Welding.

Additionally, general education classes are available for students pursuing transfer degrees. A limited selection of summer term classes is also available beginning in July for those looking to begin sooner.

Students interested in taking advantage of this opportunity are encouraged to contact CCC’s admission team to schedule an appointment at admission@clatsopcc.edu or 503-338-2417.

Friends of Haystack Rock  · We have puffins!

Check out our website, Friendsofhaystackrock.org to see them live! We have our webcam zoomed in on a couple active burrows. Your best chance to see them is in the morning between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Brooking’s Capella by the Sea Seeks Volunteers

The City of Brookings is calling for volunteers to help keep the Capella by the Sea open to the public beginning May 1st. The chapel was built in 2008 and donated in 2009 by Oscar-winning film producer Elmo Williams as a memorial to his late wife, Lorraine.

Michelle Robidoux is the Public Works and Development Services Administrative Assistant for the City of Brookings. “We like to keep the Capella open to the public May through October, and again during Nature’s Coastal Holiday,” Robidoux said. “But to do that, we rely on volunteers.”

Due to previous volunteers aging out, the city is now facing a shortage and hopes to recruit new faces. Volunteers work two-hour shifts, simply welcoming visitors and enjoying the calm space. “It’s a great way to meet people, build your resume, and give back to the community,” Robidoux said.

The Capella is typically open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday, though hours may vary based on volunteer availability. To get involved, contact Michelle Robidoux at 541-469-1103. — https://www.brookings.or.us/facilities/facility/details/capellabythesea-2

Oregon Dungeness Crab Commission New License Plate To Help Support Oregon’s Dungeness Crab Industry

Oregon’s Dungeness crab fuels families, $68M a year industry — According to the Oregon Dungeness Crab Commission, Dungeness crab fishing typically brings in more money than every other type of fishing in the state.

Right now, the Oregon Dungeness Crab Commission is working on a license plate that would help support Oregon’s Dungeness crab industry.

Celebrate Oregon’s coastal heritage and show your support for one of the state’s most iconic industries with the new Oregon Dungeness Crab license plate! This eye-catching design features a bold, bright orange Oregon Dungeness crab against a light blue sea background, inspired by the Oregon Dungeness Crab Commission logo.

By purchasing this specialty plate, you’re not only adding a unique touch to your vehicle but also supporting vital programs that sustain and promote Oregon’s Dungeness crab fishery.”Get your License Plate Here – https://oregondungeness.org/new-licence-plate/ —- Learn More with Our FAQs

The first round of 2025 Cape Perpetua Collaborative Tidepool Ambassador Tours are just on the horizon! Do you have your spots reserved?Join Jamie, Amber, and Liz during the lowest tides of the season, for educational tours around the marine reserve! Meet a wide variety of local flora and fauna, learn about Oregons Marine Reserves, and discover how you can be a vital steward for protecting these sensitive environments.Swim on over to our site at capeperpetuacollaborative.org and scroll down to our events calendar, or directly on our eventbrite-https://www.eventbrite.com/…/cape-perpetua…

Oregon’s Shore Acres State Park Volunteer Days – Chance to Give Back

Shore Acres State Park will host Garden Volunteer Days once a month April through September to give visitors a chance to volunteer in the garden.

Volunteers can learn how to prune a rose or maintain a 100-year-old-lily pond as they work alongside rangers in caring for the beautiful gardens at 89526 Cape Arago Highway, Coos Bay.

Garden Volunteer Days run 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.:

• July 18: Garden cleanup including weeding, trimming, mowing, mulching, planting, rose pruning and pulling invasive plants. Ages 14 and older.
• Aug. 15: English Ivy pull to help remove this invasive species from the garden. For ages 14 and older.
• Sept. 19: Garden cleanup including weeding, trimming, mowing, mulching, planting, rose pruning and pulling invasive plants. Ages 14 and older.

Participants should be prepared to travel a short distance on uneven ground at the service site. Service will take place outdoors, and volunteers should be comfortable wearing work gloves and using hand tools. Gloves, hand tools and morning snacks are provided. Bring a lunch.

Closed-toed shoes are recommended. Wear something you don’t mind getting dirty. Please contact Park Ranger Jess Hayward with any questions at Jess.hayward@oprd.oregon.gov or 541-888-3732.

Shore Acres features a formal garden with plants and flowers from all over the world. It includes a Japanese-style garden with lily pond and two curated rose gardens that include All-American Rose Selections. Something is in bloom almost every day of the year: the first spring bulbs pop up in late February; rhododendrons and azaleas soon follow; roses bloom through the summer; and dahlias appear August through mid-October.

Respect Nesting Areas to Protect Threatened Snowy Plover on the Oregon Coast Through Sept. 15

 – The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department and Siuslaw National Forest remind visitors to the Oregon coast that it is plover nesting season ­— beachgoers can help recovery efforts for the threatened western snowy plover March 15 to Sept. 15.

Sensitive plover nesting areas are identified on maps for the northern Oregon Coast and southern Oregon Coast. Signs may be present at trailheads with additional rules and limits, such as staying on the wet sand and no dogs even on a leash, to help protect the small shorebirds and their exposed nests during this crucial period. Visitors may also see rope fencing in dry sand areas; this fencing delineates some, but not all, of the critical plover habitat that should be avoided.

Reminders for recreation on designated plover beaches March 15-Sept. 15:

• The following are not permitted: dogs (even on a leash), driving a vehicle, riding a bicycle, operating electric-assisted bicycles, camping, burning wood, flying kites or operating drones.
• Foot and equestrian traffic are permitted below the high-tide line on hard packed sand.
• Respect signs and barriers to protect nesting habitat.

“With the support of the public and improvements to plover habitat, we’re making great strides in reversing the decline of this species,” said Cindy Burns, Siuslaw National Forest wildlife biologist. “Keep doing your part to understand nesting season rules and to share the beach this spring and summer.”

More information on the snowy plover, including detailed maps of nesting sites, can be found on the Oregon State Parks website (oregon.gov/plovers) and on the Siuslaw National Forest website (https://t.ly/AKPAN). Visitors to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area and Sand Lake Recreation Area can review Off-highway Vehicle (OHV) maps to identify unrestricted recreation areas and information on riding motor vehicles on the sand.

Volunteers are being sought to help prepare and serve lunch three times a week at the Florence Senior and Activity Center.  

They serve lunch Monday, Wednesday, and Friday each week. Both programs, the in-house dining known as Cafe 60, and Meals on Wheels, are very important in helping promote socialization and nutrition for older adults in Lane County.  Volunteer drivers for Meals on Wheels use their own vehicles, but they can be reimbursed for their mileage.  The Lane Council of Governments operates the Senior and Disabled Services in Lane County.  Alisa Andrion encourages potential volunteers to give her a call at L-COG, 541-682-1366.

Coos Bay Police Department –  WE’RE HIRING 9-1-1 DISPATCHERS

$4684 – $5972/Month DOQ — We offer:•A dynamic team environment •Alternative schedule benefiting work/life balance •Up to 5 weeks paid time off per year after the first year •The opportunity to serve your community

Our team members have come from a variety of work fields- no experience necessary! For additional information from the North Coos 9-1-1 Recruitment Team or to schedule a ride-along please email: join911@coosbayor.govhttps://www.coosbayor.gov/…/Compon…/JobPosts/Job/126/107

Gleneden Beach Community Club Events

Look what’s coming up soon at the Club… (sign up at glenedenbeach.org)

The Oregon Coast Aquarium New Tufted Puffin Oregon License Plates on Sale

One of Oregon’s most adorably iconic seabirds is coming to the front and back of a car near you. The Oregon Coast Aquarium has opened voucher sales for its new tufted puffin license plates.

The design, featuring a tufted puffin floating in the ocean and gazing down at some fish below, was created by the
aquarium’s graphic design and marketing coordinator, Cam Mullins.

Starring a tufted puffin—one of Oregon’s iconic seabirds–funds from the new license plate will benefit both the Aquarium’s animals and their wild counterparts. You can purchase a voucher now and exchange it at the DMV once the physical plates are available. We need to sell 3,000 vouchers to reach the production stage—meaning the sooner 3,000 vouchers are sold, the sooner production begins, and the sooner you’ll have your puffin plates in-hand. Read the full story at aquarium.org/puffin-plate-debut: photo by OCAq’s Jeremy Burke

Tufted puffins are native to Oregon and nest on the rocky coast. The aquarium has a Seabird Aviary that sustains a flock of these sea birds and the profits from the license plates will go to benefit these puffins and their wild counterparts.

The voucher is available for purchase on the aquarium’s website. The cost covers the $40 surcharge fee and the money left over after the deduction of the DMV’s fees will go to support the Oregon Coast Aquarium’s
rehabilitation and conservation efforts. The aquarium is building a new marine wildlife rehabilitation center with
hopes of doubling the number of animal patients it can offer care to. FOLLOW on FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/OregonCoastAquarium

Emergency Volunteer Corps of Nehalem Bay

Follow on Facebook: Emergency Volunteer Corps of Nehalem Bay

OHA 2025 Oregon Beach Monitoring Season

Agency lists monitored beaches for May-September

—The Oregon Beach Monitoring Program (OBMP) is kicking off the 2025 season by announcing the coastal recreation areas it will be keeping an eye on for bacteria during summer and early fall.

The OBMP, based at the Oregon Health Authority Public Health Division, monitors some of the most frequently visited beaches in the state.

The list includes beaches where the program has found bacteria present, or beaches for which local partners and the public have requested monitoring due to potential pollution.

• To see a video about Oregon’s beach monitoring effort, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=82GVixgeGsM

The following beaches are being monitored this season, including name, and the city and county in which they are located:

• Seaside Beach – Seaside, Clatsop County
• Cannon Beach – Cannon Beach, Clatsop County
• Tolovana Beach State Park– Cannon Beach, Clatsop County
• Short Sand Beach (Oswald West State Park) – Arch Cape, Tillamook County
• Manzanita Beach – Manzanita, Tillamook County
• Rockaway Beach – Rockaway, Tillamook County
• Twin Rocks Beach – Twin Rocks, Tillamook County
• Oceanside Beach – Oceanside, Tillamook County
• Cape Kiwanda Beach – Pacific City, Tillamook County
• Neskowin Beach – Neskowin, Tillamook County
• D River Beach – Lincoln City, Lincoln County
• Siletz Bay Beach – Lincoln City, Lincoln County
• Beverly Beach – Newport, Lincoln County
• Agate Beach – Newport, Lincoln County
• Nye Beach – Newport, Lincoln City
• Ona Beach (Brian Booth-Beaver Creek State Park) – Seal Rock, Lincoln City
• Seal Rock Beach – Seal Rock, Lincoln County
• Heceta Beach – Florence, Lane County
• Bastendorff Beach – Coos Bay, Coos County
• Sunset Bay State Park Beach – Coos Bay, Coos County
• Hubbard Creek Beach – Port Orford, Curry County
• Harris Beach State Park – Brookings, Curry County
• Mill Beach – Brookings, Curry County
• Crissey Fields State Recreation Site – Brookings, Curry County

The OBMP season runs from mid-May to mid-September.  Advisories are issued for beaches that are actively being monitored within this sampling window. Other beaches will be investigated for inclusion in upcoming seasons.

The OBMP works with the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) to determine beaches that need monitoring based on several criteria. These criteria include pollution hazards present; previous monitoring data that identify water quality concerns; type and amount of beach use; and public input.

As part of an adaptive sampling plan, beaches and sampling locations are routinely re-evaluated to ensure available resources best protect public health. A copy of DEQ’s beach evaluation is available upon request.

For more information and current beach monitoring conditions please visit: www.healthoregon.org/beach — https://www.oregon.gov/oha/ph/healthyenvironments/recreation/beachwaterquality/pages/status.aspx

The Legal Sale of Retail Fireworks in Oregon – June 23rd to July 6th

• Legal fireworks in the State of Oregon include but are not limited to novelty devices, wheels, flitter sparklers, fountains, smoke devices, and ground spinners.  
• The legal sale of retail fireworks in Oregon is from June 23rd to July 6th.  
• There is no regulation pertaining to when consumer legal fireworks may be used. Please be courteous to your neighbors and friends. 
• There are restrictions as to where fireworks can be used, such as beaches and federal lands. Always check with the local jurisdictions. See the fireworks education page. 
• Illegal fireworks include but are not limited to sky lanterns, missiles, rockets, firecrackers, cherry bombs, M-80s, Roman candles, and bottle rockets.  
• Should you wish to report the firing of illegal pyrotechnic devices, please contact your local law enforcement via their non-emergency number.
• If you would like to request information about issued permits on a specific location, please submit a Public Records Request.  
• For assistance in disposing of your leftover or unwanted fireworks, call your local law enforcement via their non-emergency number or the Oregon State Police non-emergency number at 1-800-452-7888. 

Local jurisdictions may further regulate the sale and use of fireworks in their areas.  Always check with your local jurisdiction for the legal use of fireworks in your area.

OHCS seeks public input on Substantial Action Plan Amendment for disaster recovery infrastructure funding — Zoom Meeting June 25th at 6pm

– Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) published a draft Action Plan Amendment for a $422 million disaster recovery grant and is seeking public input on the changes. Funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) is administered through a suite of programs, also known as “ReOregon.” These programs support individuals, households, and communities as they continue to recover from the 2020 Labor Day wildfires and straight-line winds.

The draft Action Plan Amendment would reallocate program funds to support the Gates Wastewater Collection System project in Marion County so it can meet the grant’s timelines and streamline construction. This project is critical for wildfire recovery and increasing housing supply. A short summary of the key elements of the plan and the entire draft Action Plan Amendment is available for review on OHCS’ website at https://re.oregon.gov.

Public comment on the draft Action Plan Amendment will be taken for 30 days through public hearings, online form, email, mail, or telephone. The hearings will include a short presentation by Marion County representatives and OHCS officials, followed by public feedback. Printed copies of the plan will be available by request.

A virtual hearing on Zoom will be held at 6 p.m. Wednesday, June 25. Please register to attend.

Information presented at the public hearings will be available on the ReOregon website at re.oregon.gov. Spanish translation services will be available at all the public hearings. Please email hcs_housinginfo@oregon.gov if you need special accommodations.

In addition to providing comment at the hearings, the public will be able to do so by:

• E-mail: hcs_housinginfo@oregon.gov
• Online form:
  • English: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/01973bb258ac77e3a4fdb47a0bc601f2
  • Spanish: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/01973cd96f8a7b50b47661f3d5c4d016
• Phone: 877-510-6800
• Mail: OHCS, 725 Summer St. NE, Suite B, Salem, OR 97301-1266

All comments must be submitted to OHCS no later than 11:59 p.m. July 9, 2025.

After the 30-day public comment period, feedback will be incorporated into the plan before OHCS submits it to HUD for review and approval, which can take up to 45 days. As required by HUD, OHCS will address all comments received.

To learn more about ReOregon programs, visit re.oregon.gov or sign up to receive e-mail notifications.

About Oregon Housing and Community Services 
OHCS is Oregon’s housing finance agency. The state agency provides financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of low and moderate income. OHCS administers programs that provide housing stabilization. OHCS delivers these programs primarily through grants, contracts, and loan agreements with local partners and community-based providers. For more information, please visit: oregon.gov/ohcs. 

Oregon’s first measles case of 2025 confirmed in Multnomah County

Health officials investigating individual’s recent international travel, potential locations of exposure

Oregon Health Authority and county public health officials are investigating a case of measles in an individual who recently returned to the state following international travel. The individual is not vaccinated against measles.

A commercial laboratory confirmed the measles case June 23. The affected individual is an adult who developed measles symptoms—sore throat, weakness, fatigue, headache and fever—on June 16.

The individual was hospitalized in the Portland metro area with a rash and conjunctivitis June 19 and was discharged June 21. County public health officials and hospital staff believe no patients were exposed. The person is recovering.

Health officials believe the individual acquired the disease while traveling abroad the last four to five weeks. This case is not believed to be connected to measles outbreaks in other U.S. states.

“We’re here to tell you that measles is now in Oregon, and if you’re not vaccinated, you are susceptible,” said Paul R. Cieslak, M.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at OHA’s Public Health Division.

“You could get measles if you’re exposed to someone who is contagious, which can be from four days before their rash starts until four days after. After exposure, it can take up to three weeks before you show the characteristic measles rash. So, someone could not even know they have measles and be transmitting it for several days. That’s why it’s extremely important that all adults and children in their household be up to date on vaccinations.” 

People might have been exposed if they were in any of these areas during these times: 

• Flight UA1832/SN8869 (Brussels Air Operated by United Airlines) on Tuesday, June 17 (economy cabin); departed Chicago O’Hare International Airport at 4:01 p.m. CDT, arrived at Portland International Airport at 6:29 p.m. PDT.
• Portland International Airport arrivals and baggage claim between 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 17.
• Safeway, located at 401 A Ave., Lake Oswego, in Clackamas County, between 1 p.m. and 3:20 p.m., on Sunday, June 22

How measles spreads and symptoms

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

Measles typically starts with a fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. A rash usually follows, beginning on the face and spreading to the rest of the body. Symptoms begin seven to 21 days after exposure to a person with measles. Common complications of measles include ear infection, lung infection and diarrhea. Swelling of the brain is a rare but much more serious complication. In developed countries in recent years, one or two out of every 1,000 measles cases have been fatal. 

Determining your risk of measles

Most people in Oregon have been vaccinated to prevent measles, usually as children. Anyone who received a measles vaccination at any time in their life has a very low risk of getting measles. But the disease is highly contagious, and the risk is high for anyone who has not received measles vaccination and has been exposed to the disease.

Measles poses the highest risk to: 

1. Unvaccinated pregnant people.
2. Infants younger than 1 year old.
3. People with weakened immune systems.

You are considered immune to measles if any of the following apply: 

• You were born before 1957.
• You’ve been diagnosed with measles at any point in your life.
• A blood test proves that you are immune.
• You have had two doses of measles vaccine. 

Traveling internationally

Individuals traveling to places known to have measles should get vaccinated in advance. It is also important to vaccinate infants 6-12 months old who are planning to travel internationally to places where measles is common.

What to do if you suspect measles in your household

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

1. Have a measles-like rash (see CDC link here for an example: https://www.cdc.gov/measles/signs-symptoms/photos.html).
2. Have been exposed to measles within the previous 21 days, AND have any other symptom of measles (such as fever, cough or red eyes). 

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

Learn more about measles at https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/DISEASESCONDITIONS/DISEASESAZ/Pages/measles.aspx, and on OHA’s blog at https://oregonhealthnews.oregon.gov/measles-what-you-should-know/.

Some lawmakers in Oregon are working to limit when and how the Oregon National Guard can be deployed, following President Donald Trump’s federalization of the National Guard in California to respond to protests in Los Angeles.

Three representatives have introduced a bill that would strengthen state oversight.

The bill would prohibit any deployment that compromises the National Guard’s ability to respond to in-state emergencies, like wildfires and earthquakes. It would also specify what duties National Guard personnel may and may not be called to perform.

Advocates said the bill would help protect state resources, reinforce state sovereignty and community safety.

“Deploying the military against our country’s citizens is an affront to our democratic principles,” Rep. Dacia Grayber, D-Southwest Portland, and one of the chief sponsors of the bill, said in a news release. “Ensuring that the Guard can only be mobilized in keeping with their congressionally-authorized functions is a common-sense safeguard to ensure separation of responsibility between our military and our local law enforcement.”

Lawmakers passed the bill out of the House Rules Committee on Tuesday. The top Republican in the House, Christine Drazan voted no, saying she wanted to discuss with the caucus first.

“Deploying the military against our country’s citizens is an affront to our democratic principles,” Rep. Dacia Grayber, D-Southwest Portland, and one of the chief sponsors of the bill, said in a news release. “Ensuring that the Guard can only be mobilized in keeping with their congressionally-authorized functions is a common-sense safeguard to ensure separation of responsibility between our military and our local law enforcement.”

Lawmakers passed the bill out of the House Rules Committee on Tuesday. The top Republican in the House, Christine Drazan voted no, saying she wanted to discuss with the caucus first.

Report finds Oregon hepatitis C death rates are among the country’s worst

Oregon has clocked in at the top of a nationwide database for rates of hepatitis C, prompting state health officials to call for increased resources aimed at stemming the disease’s impact on Oregon’s most vulnerable communities.

People in Oregon are 2.7 times more likely to die from hepatitis C compared to those who live in other states, according to two annual reports on hepatitis C released by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in April. The most recent data in those reports is from 2023.

That puts Oregon behind only the District of Columbia and Oklahoma, according to the center. The average rate of hepatitis C-related deaths in Oregon stands at 6.76 per 100,000 people, the data shows.

“Hepatitis C is common, causes serious illness and leads to a lot of hospitalizations and deaths,” said Dr. Paul Cieslak, medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at the Oregon Health Authority’s public health division, in a Monday news release. “The good news is that we can now treat it and spare people a lot of suffering.”

The viral disease involves liver inflammation, hampering the body’s ability to fight infections and filter its blood after an infection takes hold. Symptoms of hepatitis C include yellow skin, lack of appetite, pain in the stomach or dark urine, which can progress into chronic pain or cancer in extreme cases.

While alcohol use and certain medications can cause the condition, it can also be transmitted through the sharing of drug-injection equipment, unprotected sexual activity and sharing other personal, non-sterile equipment in health care settings or businesses like tattoo parlors.

Who’s most affected? – Health officials’ analysis of the CDC’s data for Oregon found that those who use illicit drugs are  most likely to develop an infection. They also pegged those aged 20 to 29 years old as most likely to acquire the disease, with Black and Native American communities around twice as likely to contract the virus “due to systemic challenges.” 

The rise of the infection has also been particularly acute in rural areas of Oregon, with a March 2025 study from Oregon Health & Science University finding that peer support and easy access to telemedicine care led to a 63% cure rate, nearly four times higher than those served by their local providers. No such program exists statewide in Oregon. 

“My hope is that public health can play the important role of linking people with hepatitis C to appropriate care,” Cieslak said in the release. “We’d love to be able to implement peer support services and telehealth for hepatitis C systematically across the state.”

Efforts to increase access to care and interventions against the disease are underway as part of OHA 2024-27 Strategic Plan, which aims to expand access to vaccines and other health resources for communities throughout Oregon. Vaccines are not available for preventing hepatitis C, but the disease can be cured with treatment and medication, often within eight to 12 weeks, according to the CDC. 

The health authority is calling for additional resources to improve local responses to hepatitis C screening, such as more peer-supported services, additional streamlined pathways to life-saving care and monitoring systems for tracking testing and curing rates. (SOURCE)

North Entrance to Crater Lake National Park Reopens

The North Entrance to Crater Lake National Park has reopened in time for the summer season.

The following roads are now open:

• Highway 62
• Munson Valley Road
• West Rim Drive
• North Entrance Road
• East Rim from North Junction to Skell Head

The National Park Service is reminding the public that open roads in the park may still have icy areas, even with the sun out. Drivers are asked to take care.

East Rim Drive from Skell Head to Park Headquarters is still closed as plow operators continue to move rocks, snow and debris.  https://www.nps.gov/crla/planyourvisit/hours.htm

Sheriff’s Deputies Arrest Arson Suspect for Lighting Fire Near 2-Acre Red Blanket Road Fire in Prospect

Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) deputies arrested a Prospect man for intentionally starting a fire Wednesday, June 18 in the Red Blanket Road area east of Prospect. JCSO deputies located the man Thursday, June 19 in the 44000 block of Highway 62 in Prospect.

The suspect barricaded briefly in a house before deputies arrested him without incident at 12:32 PM. The suspect, Allen Lee Bicknell, 51, a Prospect area transient, is charged with first-degree arson and reckless burning. A Jackson County Grand Jury indicted Bicknell on all charges the morning of Tuesday, June 24. He is lodged in the Jackson County Jail.

Wednesday at 1:57 PM, Oregon Department of Forestry ODF Southwest Oregon District firefighters responded to a fire on Red Blanket Road east of Prospect. During an aggressive initial attack, an ODF firefighter reported observing a suspect, later identified as Bicknell, in the area of the fire acting in a suspicious manner, but he fled on foot.

Firefighters reported the sighting to JCSO and were able to stop the original fire at an estimated two acres. JCSO deputies responded to continue the investigation while also assisting in the firefighting efforts. This case is open and ongoing with deputies and ODF investigating. There is no further information available for release at this time.

 F𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗳𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗲𝘅𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘂𝗶𝘀𝗵 𝟭𝟭 𝘀𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗥𝗼𝗰𝗸 𝗥𝗼𝗮𝗱 Near Central Point

Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) firefighters are investigating following 11 roadside fires that were reported along Table Rock Road outside of Central Point, three in the morning and eight in the evening of June 23. All fires have been extinguished at small sizes with the largest being half an acre.

Just after 11 a.m., Jackson County Fire District 3 and ODF Southwest Oregon District firefighters were dispatched to a report of fire along the 13000-block of Table Rock Road near the intersection of Highway 234. Upon arrival, two additional fires were located in the area. An aggressive initial attack from both agencies resulted in all three fires being quickly extinguished, the largest at half an acre. A preliminary investigation found all three fires to likely be vehicle-related.

Around 6:30 p.m., a new fire in the same area was reported. Both agencies responded once again and found eight small fires between the 11000 and 13000 blocks of Table Rock Road. All eight fires were stopped at 1/10th of an acre or less.

Following a continued investigation, the cause of the fires has been determined to be vehicle-related and all fires remain under investigation. Investigators have ruled out chip sealing conducted by Jackson County Roads in the area as a potential cause at this time.

Vehicle-related fires are common along roadways, especially in areas with dry grass. Fire causes related to cars include faulty catalytic converters; when not maintained, sparks and metal pieces can shoot out tailpipes and ignite dry vegetation near the roadway. Another common car-related fire cause is tow chains dragging on the road. If chains aren’t properly secured, they can hit the pavement and throw sparks into dry grass. Additionally, off-roading in areas of dry vegetation or even parking a hot car over dry grass can cause a fire.

Help prevent human-caused fires this summer by keeping these common vehicle-related fire causes in mind and mitigate risks where possible: ensure your car is regularly serviced by a mechanic, check tow chains and ensure they’re secure, and park in areas clear of dry vegetation.

During fire season, ODF regulates activities that commonly cause wildfires. By following local regulations, fires can be prevented. A complete list is available here: https://swofire.com/public-fire-restrictions — For more fire information, visit our Facebook page, @ODFSouthwest or our website, www.swofire.com

Oregon’s House of Representatives has approved a reform package aimed at tackling the increasing threats and costs associated with wildfires

According to the Oregon House, House Bill 3940 modernizes wildfire mitigation funding and introduces a new tax on oral nicotine products.

The bill is designed to enhance Oregon’s wildfire finance and response systems. It establishes new funding mechanisms for wildfire mitigation and links them directly to taxes on emerging nicotine products.

Rep. Pam Marsh of Ashland emphasized the need for “21st-century solutions” to prioritize wildfire mitigation and community safety.

“This bill is about prioritizing wildfire mitigation, making our communities safer, and building a funding system that is more sustainable. We’re investing in resilience and taking real steps to reduce the long-term human and economic toll of wildfire,” Marsh said.

One component of the bill is the introduction of a per-unit tax on oral nicotine products, like nicotine pouches, with the revenue directed to the Landscape Resiliency Fund and Community Risk Reduction Fund. House Bill 3940 passed with bipartisan support and now advances to the Oregon Senate for further consideration.

2025 Chi-Town Family Festival – Chiloquin, Oregon

Friday & Saturday – June 27 & June 28, 2025 Chiloquin Rodeo Event Grounds

Free activities for the entire family ——  Kick-off a summer of fun at the Chi-Town Family Festival! Free admission, free parking, free fun for all!

The City of Chiloquin is excited to extend an invitation to both residents and visitors for the 4th Annual Chi-Town Family Festival, taking place on Friday, June 27 (2–6 PM) and Saturday, June 28 (10 AM–6 PM) at the Chiloquin Rodeo and Event Grounds.

With no admission fee, this family-oriented festival provides entertainment for all—join in the celebration of summer with your community All proceeds will support Chiloquin Visions in Progress (CVIP) and its various community initiatives, including the Chiloquin Community Center and youth programs such as the new Chiloquin Teen Adventure Camp launching this July — MORE INFO: https://chi-townfamilyfestival.com

Oregon Star Party Coming to Prineville: June 24 – June 29 2025

This year’s Oregon Star Party is set to take place June 24th through the 29th on the Big Summit Prairie east of Prineville. This party is not about celebrities. It’s all about looking at the stars, galaxies and nebulas in one of the darkest places in North America.

Barring forest fires and pandemics, some 500 people will trek 50 miles east of Prineville onto the Big Summit Prairie with RVs, tents and telescopes and sit up all night looking at the heavens.

“If you love the night sky and are interested in learning about it, yes, you can definitely come here,” said Marianne Ramona, Oregon Star Party vice president. “You may not want to come for five days. This area, this is just a fraction of the telescopes that we personally bring to the event, and we love to share. We love to teach. We have people that give talks about different things, some that are basic, some that are very complicated. We try to cover that whole realm. We definitely welcome new people.”

People come from all across the country to participate in the Star Party because this remote part of Oregon has some of the darkest night skies in the lower 48 states. Held at Indian Springs on the Big Summit Prairie, it is 5,000 feet above sea level which means less atmosphere and better viewing. MORE INFO: https://oregonstarparty.org

Oregon Lottery Unveils State Parks Adventures Themed Scratch-its

– For the fourth year in a row, Oregon Lottery is highlighting the natural beauty of Oregon State Parks with new “Adventures” themed Scratch-its. The $5 tickets feature three designs of Oregon State Park landscapes with a top prize of $50,000. The tickets are available at Oregon Lottery retailers statewide.

Lottery game play helps ensure that our state parks are continuously maintained and improved, with Oregon State Parks receiving more than $1 billion in Lottery funds since 1999.

The tickets were designed by Oregon Lottery staff and highlight the diversity of the region through scenes featuring the coast, high desert, and the forest and mountain ranges. On the back of each ticket, players will find facts and tidbits about parks and natural areas that correspond to each scene.

“Oregon’s state parks offer everyone the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors – whether that’s exploring a challenging trail or a relaxing picnic with a scenic view,” said Oregon Lottery Director Mike Wells. “We are proud to support Oregon’s park system, which showcases Oregon’s natural beauty.”

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

PUC Approves Customer Protections to Avoid Disconnection of Utility Service When Extreme Heat Warning in Effect

– The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) recently approved temporary rules to protect residential customers—especially vulnerable households—from disconnection of electric utility services during extreme high temperatures.

Under the new rules, which will remain in effect through October 24, 2025, all regulated investor-owned utilities including Portland General Electric, PacifiCorp, and Idaho Power, are required to:

• Not disconnect service during peak heat – Utilities are prohibited from disconnecting electric service for 48-hours following a qualifying heat event, such as a heat advisory from the National Weather Service, ensuring households can safely cope with and recover from extreme temperatures.
• Reconnect service required during heat event – Customers whose utility services were disconnected up to 7 days before a heat event can request to be reconnected without delay once the heat event begins to help prevent risk to health and safety of residents.
• Waive reconnection fees – Although previous rules approved by the Commission waive select reconnection fees for any low-income customer, these temporary rules expand to waive all reconnection fees for medical certificate account holders or discount program participants earning less than 10 percent of state median income.
• Improve outreach and communication – The new rules require utilities to improve customer notifications to help ensure eligible customers are informed of their rights and can quickly access reconnection when needed.

“The Commission approved these rules to help ensure customers of the utilities we regulate will not lose power during dangerous heat events,” said Letha Tawney, PUC Chair. “These are critical steps to protect our most vulnerable neighbors and are timely as Oregon is already experiencing the first heat events of the summer.”

# # # The PUC regulates customer rates and services of the state’s investor-owned electric and natural gas utilities, including Portland General Electric, Idaho Power, Pacific Power, Avista, Cascade Natural, and NW Natural. The PUC also regulates landline telephone providers and select water companies. The PUC’s mission is to ensure Oregonians have access to safe, reliable, and fairly priced utility services that advance state policy and promote the public interest. We use an inclusive process to evaluate differing viewpoints and visions of the public interest and arrive at balanced, well-reasoned, independent decisions supported by fact and law. For more information about the PUC, visit oregon.gov/puc.    

Victims of child sexual abuse or sexual assault will have an unlimited timeframe to file lawsuits against their abusers, as well as against institutions that facilitated the abuse, according to a bill that received overwhelming and often emotional support in the Oregon House on Thursday.

House Bill 3582 aims to align Oregon with a growing number of states that are either expanding or abolishing statutes of limitations for civil actions related to sexual assault or child sexual abuse.  Currently, under existing law, individuals who experienced sexual abuse during childhood must file claims by the age of 40, or within five years of when they establish a link between the abuse and the harms they have endured, whichever period is longer.

Adult victims of sexual assault have a five-year window from the time they recognize a connection between the assault and the harms they have faced.

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking a volunteer to serve a three-year term as the Equestrian Representative on the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Grants Advisory Committee starting in 2026.

The ten-member committee evaluates grant proposals for statewide trail projects. The committee meets once or twice a year, virtually or at locations throughout the state.

The time commitment varies and includes reviewing and evaluating 25 to 40 grant applications per year. Committee members serve three-year terms and are eligible to serve a second term.

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

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

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

Those interested in serving must submit an RTP advisory committee interest form by June 30, 2025. The form is available online and includes more detailed information about serving on the committee: https://form.jotform.com/232364818278162

The competitive grant program is funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration and administered by OPRD. Grants are awarded to non-profits and government entities for motorized and non-motorized trail projects, including building new trails, improving existing trails and developing or improving trail facilities.

For more information about the advisory committee or application process, contact Jodi Bellefeuille, program coordinator, at Jodi.bellefeuille@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-856-6316.

Kyron Horman disappearance investigation continues 15 years later as police digitize case files

Law enforcement is scanning and documenting thousands of pages of reports, photos and evidence to be digitized, 15 years after Kyron’s disappearance.

As the 15th anniversary of Kyron Horman’s disappearance approaches, the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) says its investigation into his disappearance remains ongoing, announcing that case files will be digitized.

The MCSO and Gresham Police detectives are scanning and documenting thousands of pages of reports, photos and evidence to be digitized. When the case is digitized, the file will be reexamined by the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit, laying out the foundation “for a fresh and comprehensive review of the entire investigation,” according to MCSO.

MCSO detectives in the coming months will meet with Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez and his team to further evaluate.

Kyron was last seen on the morning of June 4, 2010, at a science fair at Skyline Elementary School in Portland.

A $50,000 reward remains available for information leading to the resolution of Kyron’s disappearance. Anyone with information is asked to call MCSO’s tipline at 503-988-0560, email tips@mcso.us or reach out to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) via 1-800-THE-LOST or online at the NCMEC CyberTipLine. (SOURCE)

Summer EBT for school-aged children returns for second year

Need to know:

• Oregon Summer EBT is a federal benefits program to help families buy food for their school-aged children during the summer.
• Oregon expects to provide up to 370,000 school-aged children with around $40 million in Summer EBT food benefits this year.
• Each eligible child receives a one-time payment of $120 in food benefits.
• About 341,500 eligible children received Summer EBT automatically on May 22, 2025 but some families need to apply.

(Salem, OR) – Oregon Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (Summer EBT) is a food benefits program that helps shrink the hunger gap when children are on summer break and don’t have easy access to healthy meals at school. Summer EBT provides $120 per eligible child to buy food.

This is the second year of Oregon’s Summer EBT program. On May 22, 2025, about 336,000 children got the benefit on an Oregon EBT card. Families should check their EBT card balance at www.ebtedge.com to confirm receipt.

Families who didn’t automatically get Summer EBT on May 22, 2025 should check program requirements before applying. Families can check requirements at sebt.oregon.gov or by contacting the Summer EBT Call Center at 833-673-7328. The Call Center is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., PDT. Apply online in English and Spanish or with a paper application in multiple languages at sebt.oregon.gov.

“When school doors close for the summer, the need for regular, healthy meals doesn’t disappear. Last year, the summer EBT program bridged a critical gap for thousands of Oregon families, helping to replace those essential 10 meals per child, per week, that they receive when school is in session,” said Dr. Charlene Williams, Director of the Oregon Department of Education (ODE). “We are proud to continue this partnership with ODHS to not only feed children, but to nurture their potential during crucial developmental months. Our continued commitment ensures that summer can be a season of growth and opportunity for all children, regardless of their economic circumstances.”

In 2024, about 362,000 children participated and received $43 million in Summer EBT food benefits their families spent in their local grocery stores, farmers markets, and other places.

“Summer EBT is one more way we can prevent kids from going hungry when school is out. Summer EBT is an evidence-based program proven to reduce child hunger and support healthier diets,” said Fariborz Pakseresht, ODHS Director. “Child hunger can have lasting impacts on health and academic achievement. Getting every eligible child connected to Summer EBT will help Oregon’s children thrive year-round and as they grow up.”

Who is eligible for Summer EBT food benefits? Families can find details about Summer EBT at sebt.oregon.gov.

Your school-age child may be automatically eligible if:

• Your family received Summer EBT benefits through an approved application in 2024.
• Your family gets SNAP, TANF or Oregon Health Plan (Medicaid) and meets income rules.
• Your child gets free or reduced-price school meals and meets income rules.
• Your child is in foster care, in migrant education, in a qualified Head Start, experiencing homelessness, or part of the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR).

Children who are automatically eligible received Summer EBT on May 22, 2025.

Your school-age child may be eligible by application if:

• Your family meets the federal income requirements for free or reduced-price meals at school, and
• Your child attends a school that participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP).

Families must apply by Sept. 3, 2025.

Receiving Summer EBT does not impact participation in other summer meal programs.

Summer EBT benefits are not considered in a public charge test and are available to children regardless of immigration status.

How will families receive Summer EBT food benefits?

The benefits will be placed on an Oregon EBT card and can be used at most grocery stores, farmers markets, and more.

Families that need a new card should call 855-328-6715, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (PDT).

Families that think their children may be eligible and didn’t get benefits on May 22 must apply by September 3. If approved, they will receive an Oregon EBT card by mail.

Stolen Summer EBT benefits can’t be replaced.

You can protect your Oregon EBT card and benefits from electronic theft by following a few simple tips.

Where can families get more information? To learn more, or to apply, visit sebt.oregon.gov.

Call the Oregon Summer EBT Call Center at 1-833-673-7328 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (PDT) on weekdays. All relay calls accepted.

More about Summer EBT – Summer EBT became a permanent program for states and certain Indian Tribal Organizations through the federal Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023. Most states began providing Summer EBT in June 2024. Oregon’s participation was made possible through an investment from the Oregon State Legislature of $12 million. That investment will draw $83 million in federal funding to Oregon, mostly in the form of food benefits families will spend in their communities.

Additional resources to help meet basic needs

• Find a food pantry: foodfinder.oregonfoodbank.org
• Find summer meal sites:  https://www.fns.usda.gov/summer/sitefinder
• Learn about government programs and community resources for older adults and people with disabilities: Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon at 1-855-673-2372 or https://www.adrcoforegon.org.
• Dial 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898-211, www.211info.org
• Find local resources and support by contacting your local Community Action Agency: https://www.caporegon.org/find-help

OHA to issue algae warnings when dog deaths reported 

As summer approaches, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) reminds people heading outdoors to enjoy the state’s lakes, rivers and reservoirs to be on the look-out for potentially toxic cyanobacteria blooms.

To help, OHA is adding a tool reporting the possible presence of cyanobacteria in freshwater lakes and rivers statewide. Starting immediately, OHA will issue pre-emptive public warnings following reports of dog illnesses or deaths possibly resulting from cyanotoxin exposure.

OHA advises recreational visitors to always be alert to signs of cyanobacteria blooms in the water and in mats attached to the ground or rocks. 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. 

Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs

No veteran should be without a place to call home, and the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs is committed to ending veteran homelessness in our state.

The new ODVA Houseless Veterans Program collaborates with federal, state, county, and Tribal agencies, veteran services offices, and community homeless service providers to meet the urgent and unique needs of Oregon’s diverse veteran communities challenged with housing stability.

In addition to advocating for Oregon veterans experiencing or at risk for houselessness, the program provides direct service to veterans and their families seeking federal and state veterans’ benefits, including access to local VA health care, documentation of service, as well as other available state benefits, and local homeless services organizations and low-income assistance programs.

If you or a veteran you know is dealing with homelessness, contact the ODVA Houseless Veterans Coordinator today at houselessvets@odva.oregon.gov or visit https://ow.ly/V4EH50VnL93 to learn more.

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