Updated: Date Corrected

On July 27, 2026 at approximately 6:55 p.m. officers from the Ashland Police Department responded to area of the 2300 block of Ashland Street, a parking area behind a local business, for a report of a strong-armed robbery that just occurred.

Witnesses reported that a man pulled a female victim from a car and stole her purse. The man reportedly fled the scene through an open field toward Interstate 5.

Ashland officers, assisted by the Talent Police Department, arrived on scene and began looking for the suspect. The suspect was quickly located walking northbound on I-5 near mile marker 15.5.

The investigation led to the arrest of the suspect on the charges noted below.

Officers retraced the path of the fleeing suspect, finding some of the stolen property.

Further investigation indicated that the suspect likely intended to steal the victim’s car as well.

The victim did not report being injured.

Officers were able to obtain video evidence in support of the charges.

The suspect is identified as Michael Scott Todnem, 39, of Grants Pass.

Todnem was lodged at the JCJ on charges of Robbery 3^rd Degree, Unauthorized Entry of a Motor Vehicle, Assault 4^th Degree, Harassment, Theft 3^rd Degree and Disorderly Conduct 2^nd Degree.

Todnem remains lodged as of this release.

Any additional witnesses are asked to call the Ashland Police Department at 541-482-5211.

On July 28, 2026 at approximately 6:55 p.m. officers from the Ashland Police Department responded to area of the 2300 block of Ashland Street, a parking area behind a local business, for a report of a strong-armed robbery that just occurred.

Witnesses reported that a man pulled a female victim from a car and stolen her purse. The man reportedly fled the scene through an open field toward Interstate 5.

Ashland officers, assisted by the Talent Police Department, arrived on scene and began looking for the suspect. The suspect was quickly located walking northbound on I-5 near mile marker 15.5.

The investigation led to the arrest of the suspect on the charges noted below.

Officer retraced the path of the fleeing suspect, finding some of the stolen property.

Further investigation indicated that the suspect likely intended to steal the victim’s car as well.

The victim did not report being injured.

Officers were able to obtain video evidence in support of the charges.

The suspect is identified as Michael Scott Todnem, 39, of Grants Pass.

Todnem was lodged at the JCJ on charges of Robbery 3^rd Degree, Unauthorized Entry of a Motor Vehicle, Assault 4^th Degree, Harassment, Theft 3^rd Degree and Disorderly Conduct 2^nd Degree.

Todnem remains lodged as of this release.

Any additional witnesses are asked to call the Ashland Police Department at 541-482-5211.

Victim:

Purple Parrot

10546 #D  Eagle Point, Or. 

Arrestee #1:

Banes, Kenneth R.  WMA    39 YOA

Resident of Klamath Falls, Or. 

Charges:

• Burglary in the First Degree
• Possession of Burglar Tools
• Criminal Mischief in the First Degree
• Theft in the Second Degree
• Possession of Methamphetamine
• Probation Violation-Detainer

Arrestee #2:

Grinnals, Jennifer L.  WFA, 5'04", 120, Brn, Brn.  37 yoa

Resident of Klamath Falls

Charge:

• Conspiracy to Commit Burglary in the First Degree.

Details:

On 07-23-26, at approximately 5:45 am, the Eagle Point Police Department responded to a business alarm at the Purple Parrot, located at 10546 #D Old Highway 62.  Upon the arrival of the first officer, two subjects were seen in the area.  The officer attempted to stop the individuals, but they fled the area on an electric scooter.  Additional deputies from the Jackson County Sheriff's Office responded to assist and began searching.  Officers quickly confirmed that the business had been burglarized. 

While the business was being searched for additional suspects, a perimeter was established.  The investigation included the deployment of an Eagle Point Police Department drone and a Jackson County Sheriff's Office K-9 team, which assisted officers in locating one of the suspects. A short time later, one of the subjects who had fled, Jennifer Grinnals, was located hiding near the Harnish Wayside Park.  Through additional investigation, it was determined the other subject involved was possibly heading to a vehicle located near Hillside Elementary School at the Old Schoolyard Park.  Officers responded to that area and located the male sitting in a vehicle.  The male was taken into custody without further incident. The male was identified as Kenneth Banes from Klamath Falls.  Banes was also determined to currently be on probation out of Klamath Falls for burglary, as well as delivery of a controlled substance, theft, and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. His probation officer was later contacted after it was confirmed Banes was the suspect in the burglary.  A detainer was placed on him at that time.  

It was later determined that the suspects had driven to Eagle Point from Klamath Falls, Oregon.  Investigators believe Banes entered the business through the roof after attempting to cut the communication lines to the businesses in the complex.  While the male was inside, it is believed he fell through the drop ceiling of the business and injured himself.  He was later treated for non-life-threatening injuries at Providence Hospital and released.  The male was later lodged at the Jackson County Jail for the above-listed charges. He was also lodged for the previously mentioned probation violation. 

Due to the extensive damage to the business and large amount of evidence to collect, the business was closed for several hours while officers processed the scene.  Damage was done to the interior of the business from Banes making entry into the business forcibly, through the roof.  The amount of damage is believed to be well over $1,000.  Because of the extensive crime scene and evidence collection, an Eagle Point Police detective assigned to the Medford Area Drug and Gang Enforcement (MADGE) Team responded to assist. A search warrant was later obtained to check for evidence and possibly missing items from the business inside the vehicle where Banes was located.  Based on the completion of the search, evidence recovered during the investigation is being compared with information from other burglary investigations in the region.  The case is still under investigation, and other agencies are being contacted to review evidence located during this case. 

The Eagle Point Police Department appreciates the assistance provided by the Jackson County Sheriff's Office and Klamath County Community Corrections. The investigation remains active as detectives continue reviewing evidence to determine whether the suspects may be connected to additional property crimes in Southern Oregon. Anyone with information related to this investigation is encouraged to contact the Eagle Point Police Department. Although the business sustained significant damage, the coordinated response prevented additional property loss and allowed investigators to secure critical evidence.

ODOJ Case CJD0550-26

ASHLAND, Ore. – The Southern Oregon Child Exploitation Team (SOCET) along with the Oregon Department of Justice’s (ODOJ) Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force and Ashland Police Department (APD) served a search warrant Wednesday morning in Ashland. The task force served the search warrant after SOCET investigators received over 2000 images of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) images directly from an unidentified suspect.

On scene, investigators interviewed potential witnesses and involved parties. SOCET investigators are working to identify the suspect. Once identified, investigators will refer criminal charges to the Jackson County District Attorney's Office.

SOCET served the search warrant Wednesday, July 22 at an apartment in the 400 block of Russell Street in Ashland. Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Medford Police Department (MPD), APD, Central Point Police Department, Talent Police Department, ODOJ ICAC, and the Southern Oregon High Tech Crimes Task Force (SOHTCTF) assisted with the warrant service. During the warrant, investigators seized digital devices which will be forensically examined by SOHTCTF for further evidence of child exploitation.

SOCET is a joint inter-agency task force that started in June of 2020 to combat child exploitation. The task force consists of investigators from JCSO, MPD, ODOJ ICAC, and HSI, as well as prosecutors from our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners in Jackson County. SOHTCTF is a joint inter-agency task force that consists of investigators from JCSO, HSI, and MPD.

Investigators continue to examine seized devices and interview witnesses as the investigation moves forward. No further details will be released at this time.

###

Date of Report: 07/26/2026

Case #: 26-20107

Name: David Wright

Age: 71

Sex: Male

Race: Caucasian

Hair: White

Eyes:  Blue

Height: 5'9"

Weight: 160

Information: David was last seen at Jubilation Fellowship Church in Murphy, OR on 7/21/2026 around 8:00am. David likely left the church on a white Genesis mountain bike wearing a tan short sleeve shirt and plaid shorts. It is unknown where David may have gone, however was seen on security footage at Dollar General in Murphy around 9:30am that same day.

If you have any information on David’s whereabouts, please contact the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office, 541-474-5123.

Klamath County Fire District 1 responded to a fast moving brush fire on Alisa Lane in Klamath Falls. Firefighters arrived to find a rapidly spreading fire burning uphill in tall grass. The fire was threatening multiple structures, including a shop that had become directly exposed to the advancing fire. Crews immediately initiated an aggressive fire attack while simultaneously protecting threatened structures.

Crews were able to quickly stop the forward progress of the fire and prevented damage to nearby buildings.

Klamath County Fire District 1 responded with 15 personnel, utilizing three structure engines, one light wildland engine, one water tender, and three command staff. The first-arriving unit was on scene just 6 minutes and 26 seconds after dispatch, allowing firefighters to quickly engage the fire and protect threatened structures.

Mutual aid assistance was provided by the Oregon Department of Forestry and the Bureau of Land Management, who responded with three engines, one helicopter, one dozer, and one command staff. The combined response ensured the fire was contained quickly despite the challenging conditions.

This incident serves as an important reminder that conditions are extremely favorable for rapid fire growth during the summer months. While this fire was contained quickly, the combination of dry fuels, topography, available firefighting resources, and the time of day could easily have resulted in a much different outcome. Even small fires can spread rapidly and threaten homes, property, and lives within minutes. Klamath County Fire District 1 urges everyone to use caution with outdoor activities and to follow current fire restrictions. Prevention remains the most effective tool in protecting lives, property, and our natural resources.

The cause and origin remains under investigation.

COOS COUNTY, Ore. (28 July 2026) - The Oregon State Medical Examiner’s Office Human Identification Program, working closely with the Coos County Sheriff’s Office Cold Case Unit, has successfully identified a man whose remains were discovered in 1972 near Highway 101. After decades of stalled leads and inconclusive testing, advanced forensic genetic genealogy finally provided the answers investigators had long sought, revealing the decedent as Armes Henry Lahti.

On August 26, 1972, the skeletal remains of what were believed to be an older male were discovered in a brushy area off Highway 101 north of the Highway 42 junction in Coos County. The decedent was found with upper and lower denture plates and multiple articles of clothing. Unfortunately, none of the items provided any clues to the man’s identity. Due to other evidence at the scene, the case was treated as a homicide.

Attempts at identifying the decedent were made throughout the ensuing years. In 2014, DNA was extracted and sequenced for upload to the Combined DNA Indexing System (CODIS) by the University of North Texas Human Identification Center; however, there were no matches. Using National Institute of Justice grant funding, the remains were submitted for Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) profiling and forensic genetic genealogy to several companies. Unfortunately, due to insufficient DNA, these efforts were unsuccessful. SNP profiling detects specific genetic markers to determine a unique genetic fingerprint.

In 2025, the Coos County Sheriff’s Office Cold Case Unit submitted further evidence to Othram, Inc. who successfully extracted and sequenced an SNP profile. The profile indicated that the decedent was of 100 percent Finnish ancestry. The profile was turned over to the Federal Bureau of Investigation and a probable candidate for the decedent was developed.

Family reference testing was completed, and the decedent has been confirmed as Armes Henry Lahti (born 1909).

State Forensic Anthropologist Hailey Collord-Stalder, Ph.D., said, “This long‑awaited identification reflects years of dedicated work, collaborative science, and advances in modern genetic genealogy.” She continued, “This outcome would not be possible without the ongoing cooperation among multiple law enforcement agencies, private scientific partners, and volunteers committed to resolving cold cases.”

The Coos County Sheriff’s Office Cold Case Unit is continuing to work the case and anyone with information is asked to call 541-396-7800 to speak with an investigator.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police

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

MARION COUNTY, Ore. (27 July 2026) – On Friday, July 24, 2026, at approximately 2:58 p.m., Oregon State Police responded to a vehicle-versus-bicycle crash on Highway 99E near milepost 33 in Marion County.

# # #

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.

CLACKAMAS COUNTY, Ore. (27 July 2026) – On Thursday, July 23, 2026, at approximately 10:37 p.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Highway 26 near milepost 31.5 near Sandy.

The preliminary investigation indicated a red Freightliner semi‑truck and triple trailer, operated by Colton Wayne Adams (36) of Bend, was traveling westbound on Hwy. 26 near East Terra Fern Drive when it overheated and stopped in the westbound travel lane. The Freightliner was then rear‑ended by a white Volvo semi‑truck and triple trailer, operated by James Glenn Fisher (62) of Medford.

The operator of the Volvo (Fisher) was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Freightliner (Adams) was reportedly not injured.

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

OSP was assisted by the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, Clackamas Fire District, Hoodland Fire District, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) 
The Oregon State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit (CRU) is a specialized unit 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.

Updated July 25, 2026 at 9:48 p.m.

CLACKAMAS COUNTY, Ore. (24 July 2026) – The Oregon State Police and Federal Bureau of Investigation are investigating a report of individuals impersonating law enforcement officers in Clackamas County and are asking for the public's assistance.
 

There is already fear and uncertainty among immigrant communities across Oregon. OSP investigators are actively pursuing leads and conducting a thorough investigation to identify those responsible.

On Friday, July 17, 2026, between approximately 3:30 p.m. and 5 p.m., the victim was driving on Highway 211 near milepost 5, east of Woodburn, when they observed a vehicle displaying red and blue emergency-style lights behind them. Believing they were being stopped by law enforcement, the victim pulled over onto a gravel turnout.
 

Two men exited the suspect vehicle, one of whom was armed with a rifle. The suspects identified themselves as "ICE" and told the victim they were being detained. The victim was forcibly removed from their vehicle, searched, and placed into the back seat of the suspects' vehicle. A third individual, who remained in the vehicle and was described as acting as a "guard," assaulted the victim while they were detained.

After approximately 15 to 20 minutes, the suspects released the victim and told them they were free to leave.
 

The suspects were described as wearing boots, baseball caps, face coverings, and green long-sleeved shirts.They wore tactical vests displaying “POLICE” in white lettering and carried badges marked “Police.”  The suspect vehicle was described as a newer model smaller SUV, blue or gray in color, with no visible license plates. 
 

The victim later sought medical treatment for injuries sustained during the incident. While at an area hospital, the victim began receiving text messages from a phone number claiming to represent a law firm offering legal representation related to the incident. The messages originated from phone number 971-502-5548.
 

OSP investigators have contacted federal law enforcement agencies, who confirmed the individuals involved were not federal officers.

A report of individuals impersonating law enforcement officers while falsely claiming to represent federal immigration authorities may have broad impacts on immigrant communities throughout Oregon.

Anyone who witnessed suspicious activity in the area of Hwy. 211 near South Barlow Road on July 17, or anyone who may have encountered individuals posing as law enforcement officers, is asked to contact the Oregon State Police. Investigators are also interested in hearing from anyone who has received similar communications from the phone number 971-502-5548.

Anyone with information is asked to contact OSP dispatch at 800-442-0776 or OSP (677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case number SP26-237961.

OSP encourages all community members to remain vigilant, seek information from trusted sources, and report suspicious activity or individuals claiming to be law enforcement if something does not seem right. To report suspicious activity or individuals claiming to be law enforcement, contact your local law enforcement agency or call 911 in an emergency situation.

Guidance for Confirming Law Enforcement Identity

Federal agencies operating in Oregon have confirmed that officers conducting official operations must clearly identify themselves as law enforcement. They also reiterated that anyone who falsely represents themselves as a federal immigration officer will face criminal prosecution to the fullest extent of the law. Impersonating law enforcement jeopardizes public safety, creates unnecessary fear and confusion, and undermines trust in legitimate agencies. 

If you are unsure whether a traffic stop or law enforcement contact is legitimate, consider the following safety tips:

• If the vehicle stopping you is not a marked unit, the emergency lights should be built in and are usually not a temporary light placed on the vehicle.
• Try to stop in a well-lit area or a location where there are a lot of people present.
• Turn on your emergency flashers, but don’t turn off your car.
• Lock your door.
• Look for a uniform or other official department clothing. If you are unsure, ask the officer to display their department identification and badge. Ask where they work and if you can contact their dispatch center to confirm their identity.
• In Oregon, local, state, and federal law enforcement officers may not wear face coverings except in specific circumstances and must clearly display identification showing the agency they represent.
• OSP also acknowledges that Oregon immigrant or refugee communities may not feel safe to do any of these things and also reminds individuals that they can always call 911 or other non-emergency line to ask for a marked vehicle to respond.

# # #

About the Oregon State Police

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 24, 2026
CoastBusters Walk for Breast Cancer Opens Registration for 2026 Comeback Walk in Memory of Co-Founder Sonia Graham

CENTRAL OREGON COAST — CoastBusters Walk for Breast Cancer is pleased to announce that registration is now open for its 2026 walks, marking a powerful comeback year for the local nonprofit organization.

The 2026 CoastBusters Walk season will be held in memory of Sonia Graham, who co-founded the organization alongside Jeanette Campagna. Sonia’s vision, heart, and dedication helped shape CoastBusters into a community-driven effort focused on supporting local breast cancer patients and their families.

This year also marks a major milestone for CoastBusters, which is now officially a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. With early registration now open, growing community support, and two walk locations planned, 2026 is shaping up to be the organization’s biggest year ever.
The 2026 CoastBusters Walks will take place on:

Newport: Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Newport High School

Florence: Saturday, October 3, 2026, at Siuslaw Middle School

The CoastBusters Walk for Breast Cancer brings the community together to celebrate survivors, honor loved ones, raise awareness, and provide meaningful support for breast cancer patients on the Central Oregon Coast. Funds raised help local patients and families with expenses during treatment and recovery, including medical, transportation, groceries, utilities, lodging, and other everyday needs.

Early registration is open now, and participants who register early will receive early bird pricing and a guaranteed CoastBusters T-shirt.
Community members are encouraged to gather their family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, businesses, and walking teams. Costumes, team themes, fundraising challenges, and plenty of pink are encouraged.

Register here: https://www.coastbusterswalk.org/w/CoastBusters/Page/Events

Local businesses, sponsors, volunteers, and community partners are also invited to get involved as CoastBusters prepares for what is expected to be its largest year yet.

“This comeback year is especially meaningful as we honor Sonia Graham and continue the work she helped begin,” said Jeanette Campagna, CoastBusters co-founder. “CoastBusters has always been about community, hope, and helping local breast cancer patients and their families feel supported when they need it most.”

For more information about registration, sponsorship, volunteering, or supporting the CoastBusters Walk for Breast Cancer, visit:
https://www.coastbusterswalk.org/w/CoastBusters

About CoastBusters Walk for Breast Cancer
CoastBusters Walk for Breast Cancer is a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving the Central Oregon Coast. The organization raises funds to support local breast cancer patients and their families with real-life expenses during treatment and recovery. Through community walks, sponsorships, donations, and volunteer support.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Hotline: 503-813-6018

Pacific Power Foundation awards grants totaling more than $340,000

Recipients include nonprofit organizations with a focus on STEM and educational opportunities

Portland, Ore. (July 27, 2026) — Across the region, local nonprofit organizations are expanding STEM and educational opportunities for teachers, students and their communities. To support these efforts, the Pacific Power Foundation awarded $343,800 in grants to 93 organizations across Oregon, Washington and California.

The grants support an array of projects that inspire career readiness, improve literacy and empower skill development. 

“When we invest in organizations that provide STEM and education opportunities, we’re investing in the future of our communities,” said Ryan Flynn, director of the Pacific Power Foundation and president of Pacific Power. “These programs provide meaningful hands-on experiences that can change a student’s trajectory.” 

The Pacific Power Foundation’s Education and STEM grant cycle is just one of several funding opportunities throughout the year. Interested organizations may apply for the Arts and Culture grant cycle on our website by September 15, 2026.   

The following are just a sample of the organizations that received grants during this cycle.

Oregon:  

Benton County:   

• Boys and Girls Club of Corvallis
• Corvallis Youth Symphony Association
• Oregon State University Foundation

Clatsop County:    

• Clatsop Small Business Development Center
• Necanicum Watershed Council
• Seaside AAUW Scholarship Foundation

Coos County: 

• Fishing Poles for Kids Oregon Coast

Deschutes County:   

• Bend-La Pine Education Foundation
• BendNEXT Foundation
• Summit High School Robotics Team

Douglas County:   

• Glide Revitalization
• Umpqua Valley Farm to School
• Winston Area Community Partnership

Hood River County:  

• Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Museum
• Wylde Wind & Water

Jackson County:

• Britt Rock Camp
• Medford School District South High School
• Talent Maker City

Jefferson County:

• Culver School District No. 4
• Warm Springs Community Action Team

Josephine County:   

• Youth 71Five Ministries
• Our Foster Kids, Inc.
• Project Youth+

Klamath County:   

• Klamath Rotary Club
• Oregon Tech Foundation
• REACH Inc.

Lane County: 

• Creswell Clubhouse
• Eugene Science Center

Lincoln County:  

• BB360

Linn County: 

• Albany Public Schools Foundation
• Scio Youth Club
• Western University of Health Sciences

Marion County:   

• Stayton Public Library Foundation

Multnomah County:   

• Admire Teachers
• Center for Black Excellence
• College Possible
• Elevate Oregon
• INCIGHT
• World Salmon Council

Polk County:    

• Acres of Hope

Umatilla County: 

• Stanfield Public Library

Washington: 

Walla Walla County:   

• National Inventors Hall of Fame
• Sustainable Living Center

Yakima County:    

• First Tee – Central Washington
• FIRST Washington
• Master Gardener Foundation of Yakima County

California: 

Del Norte County: 

• Redwoods Wonder Forge

###

About the Pacific Power Foundation:   

 
The PacifiCorp Foundation, doing business as the Pacific Power Foundation in Oregon, Washington and California, is one of the largest utility-endowed foundations in the United States. The foundation was created by PacifiCorp, an energy company that serves over 2 million customers across a diverse six-state region as Rocky Mountain Power (Utah, Wyoming and Idaho) and as Pacific Power (Oregon, Washington and California). The foundation’s mission, through charitable investments, is to support the growth and vitality of the communities served by Rocky Mountain Power and Pacific Power. Since it started in 1988, the PacifiCorp Foundation has awarded more than $80 million to nonprofit organizations. For more information, visit PacificPower.net/Foundation.  

Release date: July 25, 2026

Contact:

Fire Information Desk

Northwest Interagency Coordination Center

(503) 808-2764, nwc_info@firenet.gov">ornwc_info@firenet.gov

CRITICAL FIRE WEATHER CREATES HIGH FIRE DANGER  

Fire Officials Seek Public Cooperation

Critical fire weather conditions, including Red Flag Watches and Warnings, are underway across the Geographic Area, creating an increased risk for rapid wildfire growth. Fire officials urge residents and visitors to help prevent wildfires by avoiding activities that could spark a fire, following local fire restrictions, and staying informed about changing conditions. The public should also monitor evacuation information and be prepared to act quickly if conditions change.

“Right now, everyone needs to be extremely careful,” said Jeff Fedrizzi, Chair of the Pacific Northwest Wildfire Coordinating Group. “Current fire conditions mean that just one spark, a discarded cigarette, or an unattended open flame can ignite the next wildfire. After the lightning we've received over the past 10 days and the number of new fires already burning across the landscape, we need the public's help to prevent additional fires and protect our firefighters, our communities, and our natural resources.”

Fire officials across Oregon and Washington remind residents and visitors that fire restrictions and area closures are in place to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires during this period of extreme fire danger. Know before you go by checking local fire restrictions and area closures before recreating outdoors. Common activities that can ignite dry vegetation include mowing dry grass, driving off designated roads, operating equipment that creates sparks, and building campfires. Many of these activities are currently prohibited or restricted because of extreme fire conditions. Stay clear of active wildfire areas and firefighting operations. Do not drive to view wildfires, as traffic can delay emergency responders, hinder firefighting efforts, and create additional safety hazards. If you encounter smoke while driving, slow down and use extra caution.

Before traveling or recreating outdoors, check the latest road closures, fire restrictions, fire activity, and evacuation information:

Road Conditions 
• Oregon: TripCheck – https://tripcheck.com/ 
• Washington: WSDOT Real-Time Travel – https://wsdot.com/travel/real-time/ 

Evacuations & Emergency Alerts 
• Oregon: https://oralert.gov/ 
• Washington: https://mil.wa.gov/alerts 

Current Fire Information 
• InciWeb: https://inciweb.wildfire.gov/ 
• Northwest Interagency Coordination Center: https://gacc.nifc.gov/nwcc/  
• Air Quality: https://fire.airnow.gov/ 

Your decisions matter. Stay informed, follow local restrictions and evacuation orders, and help keep yourself, your community, and our firefighters safe. 

CORRECTIONS POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Corrections Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 10:00 a.m. on August 11, 2026, at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov.

The meeting will be live streamed on the DPSST YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.

Amended Agenda Items:

1.  Introductions

2. Approve May 12, 2026, Meeting Minutes

3. Administrative Closures Consent Agenda (The following items to be ratified by one vote)

Presented by Cindy Park

a) Isaac Dobson; DPSST No. 66095
Corrections, Not Certified

b) Sloan Krueger; DPSST No. 59491
Basic and Intermediate Parole and Probation Certifications

c) John Orrison; DPSST No. 65691
Corrections, Not Certified

4. Donald Bottomley, DPSST No. 50816; DOC/Snake River Correctional Institution

Presented by Cindy Park

5. Kyle Dahlke, DPSST No. 58923; DOC/Coffee Creek Correctional Facility

Presented by Cindy Park

6. Shawn Holloway, DPSST No. 57575; DOC/Coffee Creek Correctional Facility

Presented by Cindy Park

7. Michael Mersereau, DPSST No. 61023; Multnomah County Sheriff's Office

Presented by Cindy Park

8. Marcos Ordaz-Munoz, DPSST No. 56789; DOC/Santiam Correctional Institution

Presented by Cindy Park

9. Amber Seley, DPSST No. 50219; Marion County Sheriff's Office

Presented by Cindy Park

10. Proposed Rule Changes for Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) 259-008-0005, 259-008-0290, 259-008-0300, 259-008-0310, 259-008-0320, 259-008-0330, 259-008-0340, and 259-008-0400

Amending Public Safety Professional Certification Denial and Revocation Standards and Processes

Presented by Jennifer Howald

           a. Review of Revisions to the Proposed Rule Changes

           b. Review of Public Comment for Proposed Rule Changes to OAR 259-008-0310 (8), Professional Standards Cases Involving Employment Arbitration

11. Agency Updates

12. Next Corrections Policy Committee Meeting: November 10, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

Administrative Announcement

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

DPSST provides reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access for people with disabilities and those with limited English proficiency. To request a sign language interpreter, translation services, or other accommodations, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or at nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

DPSST proporciona acomodaciones rasonables para asegurar el acceso igual para personas con descapacidades y para personas con competencia limitada de inglés. Para pedir un interprete de lengua de señas, servicios de traducción, u otras acomodaciones, por favor de contactar a Juan Lopez marcando al (503) 551-3167, o a nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, al menos de 48 horas antes de la reunión.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS POLICY COMMITTEE

MEETING SCHEDULED

The Telecommunications Policy Committee of the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training will hold a regular meeting at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training located at 4190 Aumsville Hwy SE, Salem, Oregon. For further information, please contact Juan Lopez (503) 551-3167 or juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov.

The meeting will be live streamed on the DPSST YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@DPSST.

Agenda Items:

1. Introductions

2. Approve May 20, 2026, Meeting Minutes

3. Approve the Bylaws of the Telecommunications Curriculum Advisory Committee (TCAC)

4. Proposed Rule Changes f or Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) 259-008-0005, 259-008-0290, 259-008-0300, 259-008-0310, 259-008-0320, 259-008-0330, 259-008-0340, and 259-008-0400

Amending Public Safety Professional Certification Denial and Revocation Standards and Processes

     Presented by Chris Enquist

            a. Review of Revisions to the Proposed Rule Changes

            b. Review of Public Comment for Proposed Rule Changes to OAR 259-008-0310 (8), Professional Standards Cases Involving Employment Arbitration.

5. Agency Updates

6. Next Telecommunications Policy Committee Meeting: November 4, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.

Administrative Announcement

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

DPSST provides reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access for people with disabilities and those with limited English proficiency. To request a sign language interpreter, translation services, or other accommodations, please contact Juan Lopez at (503) 551-3167 or at nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, at least 48 hours before the meeting.

DPSST proporciona acomodaciones rasonables para asegurar el acceso igual para personas con descapacidades y para personas con competencia limitada de inglés. Para pedir un interprete de lengua de señas, servicios de traducción, u otras acomodaciones, por favor de contactar a Juan Lopez marcando al (503) 551-3167, o a nandez@dpsst.oregon.gov">juan.lopez-hernandez@dpsst.oregon.gov, al menos de 48 horas antes de la reunión.

A two-day event in Bend will offer employers and workers opportunities to sharpen their skills in building and maintaining safe and healthy workplaces. The Central Oregon Occupational Safety & Health Conference – scheduled Sept. 28-29 at the Riverhouse Lodge Convention Center – will address a variety of topics, including fall protection, safety committees, heat-illness prevention and wildfire smoke requirements, chemical safety, and support for emergency services workers and first responders.

On Tuesday, Sept. 29, the conference will feature a keynote address, “Finding Your Beat, the Rhythm of Life,” by Tim Eggebraaten, a certified speaking professional who is also known as “The Off-Duty Chief.” Eggebraaten, who worked in law enforcement for 28 years, will use his storytelling, humor, and musical talents to reveal practical strategies for navigating stress, bolstering mental and emotional well-being, and reconnecting with what matters most: purpose, people, and personal growth.   

The Central Oregon Occupational Safety & Health Conference is a collaborative effort of Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA) and the Central Oregon Safety & Health Association.

The Oregon Fire Chiefs Association’s Safety and Health Section helped create the conference’s emergency services/first responder track. The track’s topics include building organizational resilience, strengthening emergency preparedness and training in central Oregon, and how to start or refine mentorship programs.

Other conference topics include:

• I’m on the Safety Committee, Now What?
• Confined Spaces: What You Need to Know
• Hazard Identification
• Voluntary Compliance: The Value of Engaged Employees
• Lithium-Ion Battery Safety Considerations
• Strong Teams Start Here: Fostering Psychological Safety at Work
• The Prescription to Lowering Your Driver Risk
• Avoid a Catastrophe: Implement the Principles of Process Safety
• Oregon OSHA’s Fall Protection Options for General Industry
• Effective Quarterly Safety Inspections

Registration for the two-day event is $260. The cost to attend only one day is $130. To register, go to  safetyseries.cventevents.com/central26. For information about statewide workplace safety and health conferences co-sponsored by Oregon OSHA, visit https://osha.oregon.gov/conferences/Pages/index.aspx, call 503-947-7411, or send an email to egon.conferences@dcbs.oregon.gov">oregon.conferences@dcbs.oregon.gov.

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

Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) announced today that it has lifted the order of supervision to ATRIO Health Plans, Inc.

DFR originally put ATRIO under supervision April 13, 2026, because of concerns over the insurer’s financial condition. The company had suffered excessive operating losses over the previous 12 months. Additionally, the financial condition of the company created a claims backlog that caused provider payments to go unpaid. 

DFR determined that the conditions giving rise to the supervision no longer exist and the company had taken steps to significantly improve its policyholders’ surplus; therefore, DFR terminated the supervision of the company on July 14. The division was assisted on supervising the company by the California Conservation and Liquidation Office (CACLO).

As of March 31, 2026, ATRIO enrolled a total of about 36,292 Oregonians in its Medicare Advantage plans. The enrollees are in Clackamas, Douglas, Jackson, Josephine, Klamath, Lane, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Washington, and Yamhill counties.

“Terminating the supervision of ATRIO is a successful step in the process of regulating insurance companies,” said Oregon Insurance Commissioner TK Keen. “DFR, together with the CACLO team, has shown the strength of the state-based system of regulation and the work we do each day to improve the marketplace for consumers.”

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About Oregon DFR: The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

A series of three meetings of a rulemaking advisory committee on updating the smoke management rules have been scheduled.

The committee’s focus will be to discuss regulated areas. This will include multiple work sessions and public comment.

The first meeting took place July 15, view the meeting video. The second meeting is Wednesday, July 29 from 1 – 3 p.m. via Teams. One additional meeting is scheduled for Aug. 12. More may be scheduled in the future. All meetings will be held virtually and are open to the public.

To join, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda.

There will be a period for public comment. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting by contacting y.berry@odf.oregon.gov">Shelby Berry at 503-949-5181.

The Florida CIMT is committed to managing the East Evans Creek Fire for a standard assignment, which is 14 days. After 6 a.m. Monday, ODF CIMT 1 members will return home and have two mandatory rest days before being available for assignment again.

SALEM, Ore. — The Compliance Monitoring Program Committee will hold a virtual meeting Thursday, July 30, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Roads and steep slopes pilot study updates
• Riparian pilot study report discussion       

The meeting is open to the public to attend online via Teams. Requests for an interpreter for the hearing impaired or other accommodations for persons with disabilities should be made at least 48 hours before the meeting by emailing ta.l.friasbedolla@odf.oregon.gov">Marta Frias-Bedolla.

The CMP Committee assists in efforts to monitor compliance with Forest Practices Rules. The committee advises ODF regarding monitoring projects and procedures. View more information on the CMPC webpage.

(SALEM) – The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS), Child Welfare Division, asks the public to help find Julian Hawes, age 10, and Mahina Hawes, age 9, who went missing from Bend on July 23. They are believed to be in danger.

ODHS asks the public for help in the effort to find Julian Hawes and Mahina Hawes and to contact 911 or local law enforcement if they believe they see them.

Julian Hawes and Mahina Hawes are suspected to be in Deschutes County in either Bend or Redmond.

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

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

Child Legal Name: Julian Hawes

Child Preferred Name: Julian

Pronouns: He/him/his

Age: 10

Height: 4-foot-6

Weight: 85 pounds

Hair color: Blonde

Eye color: green

Specific Identifying Characteristics: Juilian has shortly cut blonde hair.

Bend Police Department Case# 2026-0004065

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) Report #: 2096219

Date Missing: 7/23/2026

Suspected and/or frequented location: Bend

Child Legal Name: Mahina Hawes

Child Preferred Name: Mahina

Pronouns: She/her/hers

Age: 9

Height: 4-foot-2

Weight: 65 pounds

Hair color: Blond

Eye color: Green

Specific Identifying Characteristics: Mahina has hair that is approximately at shoulder length and is sandy brown.  

Bend Police Department Case# 2026-0004065

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) Report #: 2096219

Date Missing: 7/23/2026

Suspected and/or frequented location(s): Bend

Salem, OR—The Oregon Department of Revenue’s Salem office and all its contact centers will be temporarily closed for an all-staff event, 2:30–3:30 p.m., on July 28.

The department’s five regional offices, in Bend, Eugene, Gresham, Medford, and Portland, will remain open during this time.

The department’s contact centers and the Salem office, located at 955 Center Street NE in Salem, will re-open to serve customers after the all-agency event.

Customers will still be able to use the Salem office drop box, for clearly labeled payments (other than cash) and tax forms that are deposited in sealed envelopes, during the temporary closure.

Customers who need contact center support or who may need to make in-person payments or seek in-person services at the department’s Salem Office the afternoon of July 28 should plan ahead for the one-hour closure.

The department’s website and Revenue Online will experience no disruption during this time. For more information on how to contact the department, visit its website.

-30-

For Immediate Release: July 23, 2026.

Media Contacts:  Communications@employ.oregon.gov;

Anna Johnson, Senior Economic Analyst, Anna.L.Johnson@employ.oregon.gov

Oregon Private Job Vacancies Unchanged in Second Quarter 2026

SALEM, Ore. — Oregon private employers reported 45,400 job openings at any given time in the second quarter of 2026. This was essentially unchanged from the 45,300 job openings seen in the first quarter of the year, according to new data from the Oregon Employment Department’s Job Vacancy Survey.

In research published today, senior economic analyst Anna Johnson reports that hiring demand remained concentrated in the private health care and social assistance industry, which represented nearly a quarter of all job vacancies. Spring vacancies were distributed across the state, with the Portland Tri-County area accounting for 36% of all vacancies.

Most job openings across the state tended to be for full-time and permanent positions. The average starting wage among this group of vacancies was $26.77 per hour and employers reported 61% of vacancies as difficult to fill.

For the full analysis, see the article: Spring 2026 Hiring Among Oregon’s Private Employers Remained Flat from Winter.

About Workforce and Economic Research

The Workforce and Economic Research Division of the Oregon Employment Department develops and distributes quality economic and workforce information to help Oregonians make informed decisions and support a thriving economy. Staff collect data from state and federal records and surveys; analyze the available information; and share insights with the public in a variety of ways, including regular reports, publications, and the website, QualityInfo.org.

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

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

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July 28, 2026

Media contact: Erica Heartquist,  PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

Recreational use advisory issued for Odell Lake July 28

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) issued a recreational use health advisory today for Odell Lake due to laboratory results from recently collected water samples that showed cyanotoxins above the Recreational Use Value (RUV).

A recreational use health precaution has been in place since July 24 due to the presence of a visible harmful algae bloom. The lake is in Klamath County.

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

Drinking water

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

Not all private treatment systems are effective at removing cyanotoxins. People who do not use a well or public water system and draw in-home water directly from an affected area are advised to use an alternative water source 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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July 27, 2026

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

Recreational use advisory issued for Prineville Reservoir July 27

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

A recreational use health precaution has been in place since July 24 due to the presence of a visible harmful algae bloom. The lake is in Crook County.

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. This season, the bloom has primarily affected the portion of the reservoir to the east of Big Bend Island, however, caution should be taken in all portions of the reservoir. 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 Prineville 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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Depot Bay, Ore. — The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department’s Whale Watching Center and viewing area around the building will close for repairs this summer. There are still plenty of places along the Oregon Coast to see whales from Astoria to Brookings.

“This has been an ongoing need for the building and we’ve just recently been able to secure funding,” said Park Manager Burke Martin. “We appreciate the community’s patience and support as we work to protect and preserve this unique coastal facility.”

The postwar-era building was built in 1956 and listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 2012. This temporary closure will allow the contractors to complete essential roof replacement work. Construction will repair leaks from the promenade deck, replace the original roofing membrane and drains.

Construction can begin as early as Aug. 1 depending on the contractor’s schedule and mobilization plans. Because this is a roofing project on the Oregon coast, construction during the summer months will allow work crews to take advantage of typically drier weather. This timing helps reduce the risk of weather-related delays and protects both the structure and contractor safety.

The Whale Watching Center will remain open until construction officially begins. OPRD anticipates completing repairs by the end of October – well ahead of the annual gray whale migration in the winter.

We acknowledge that this temporary closure may be inconvenient for visitors and the Depoe Bay community, and we appreciate everyone’s understanding as we complete these essential improvements.

The turn out about a block north of the Whale Watching Center will remain open. Nearby parks such as Boiler Bay, Rocky Creek and Cape Foulweather also offer fantastic views for whale watching. 

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SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) is inviting Pacific Power (PacifiCorp) customers and community members to share their input on the company’s request to increase customer rates. Comments may be submitted in several ways, including during an upcoming virtual public meeting.

Comment at virtual public meeting
Held Monday, July 27, 2026, at 6 p.m. via Zoom or by phone, this meeting allows community members to learn about the proposed increase and provide spoken comments directly to the Commissioners and Administrative Law Judge overseeing this case.

If members of the public are still waiting to comment at 7 p.m., the meeting may continue to allow as many members of the public to comment as time permits.

Information on how to join the meeting can be found at: https://bit.ly/PacificPower-meeting-notice

Other ways to submit comments 
Comments may be submitted through any of the following methods:

• Online Public Comment Form: https://bit.ly/UE470-public-comment-form

• Email: licComments@puc.oregon.gov" target="_blank">PUC.PublicComments@puc.oregon.gov

• Phone: 503‑378‑6600 or 800‑522‑2404 (all relay calls accepted)

• Mail:
  Oregon Public Utility Commission
  Attn: AHD – UE 470 
  PO Box 1088 
  Salem OR 973081088 

About the Pacific Power rate change proposal
Pacific Power has proposed increasing the amount of money it collects from Oregon customers by $170.7 million, or about 8.6 percent overall. Actual bill impacts will vary depending on customer type (residential, commercial, or industrial) and energy usage. The company reports this increase is needed to continue investing in the electric system so it can provide safe and reliable service to its 667,000 Oregon customers. This proposed change does not include rate adjustments addressed in other proceedings before the Commission that could result in other increases or decreases to customer rates.

These investments include upgrades to transmission, distribution, and generation facilities, along with projects that improve system resiliency and customer service. In its filing, Pacific Power explains that current rates are not sufficient to cover rising operating costs or to support the company’s ability to attract investment for future system upgrades. 

Pacific Power’s general rate case filing is undergoing a nearly year-long review and will be fully investigated on behalf of customers by the PUC, the Oregon Citizens’ Utility Board, and others. This public meeting is part of that review. The Commission will issue a final decision in March of next year and any approved rate changes would take effect on April 4, 2027.

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore.— Today Katherine Vogel, 39, pleaded guilty to Interfering with Federal Law Enforcement.

According to court documents, on or about September 30, 2025, Vogel was on the federal property grounds of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Building applying red paint to the ICE facility. Federal law enforcement agents then attempted to arrest Vogel. She failed to comply and forcibly interfered with the lawful direction of the federal officers during the arrest.

On June 22, 2026, Vogel was charged by superseding information with interfering with federal law enforcement and failing to obey a lawful order.

Vogel faces a maximum sentence of 1 year in prison, a $100,000 fine, and 1 year of probation.

She will be sentenced on October 21, 2026, before a U.S. district court judge.

The FBI and Federal Protective Service are investigating the case. The U. S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon is prosecuting the case.

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore.— A Gresham, Oregon, man pleaded guilty today after he was charged with assaulting a federal law enforcement officer during a declared riot near a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in South Portland.

Ginovanni Joseph Brumbelow, 22, pleaded guilty to assault on a federal officer with a dangerous weapon.

According to court documents, on June 14, 2025, Brumbelow struck a federal officer in the back of the head with a wooden stake while the officer was arresting another individual during a riot at the ICE facility in South Portland.

On July 15, 2025, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a three-count indictment charging Brumbelow with assault on a federal officer, assault of a federal officer with a dangerous weapon and civil disorder.

Brumbelow faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on October 19, 2026, before a U.S. district court judge.

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

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

The FBI and Federal Protective Service are investigating the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon is prosecuting the case.

# # #

PORTLAND, Ore.—A federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment Tuesday charging a Hillsboro, Oregon man with possessing images depicting the sexual abuse of children.
 

Daniel Bostwick, 69, has been charged with a single count of possession of obscene visual representations of child sex abuse.
 

According to court documents, Bostwick was on state parole following a previous conviction for Sexual Abuse in the First Degree under Oregon law.  Bostwick was subject to device monitoring as a condition of his parole. In April, two sexualized images of children were detected on Bostwick’s cellphone. A subsequent search of Bostwick’s phone and a thumb drive resulted in the recovery of dozens of images depicting the sexual abuse of children, which appeared to have been generated by Artificial Intelligence (AI).
 

Bostwick made his initial appearance in federal court today before a U.S. magistrate judge. He was arraigned, pleaded not guilty, and ordered detained pending a 3-day jury trial scheduled to begin on September 22, 2026.
 

If convicted, Bostwick faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years and a maximum sentence of twenty years in federal prison, a term of supervised release of at least five years up to life, and a fine of $250,000.
 

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

The FBI and Washington County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mira Chernick is prosecuting the case.
 

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

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.

# # #

This release corrects an error. The Beachcomb and Bench Fires and Second Flat Fire are the ninth and tenth times the Emergency Conflagration Act has been invoked in 2026.

---MEDIA RELEASE---

SALEM, Ore. – The Emergency Conflagration Act was invoked for the Beachcomb and Bench fires late Saturday night and the Second Flat Fire on Sunday. The Oregon State Fire Marshal is assigning an incident management team and resources to the Beachcomb and Bench fires on the Warm Springs Reservation and Jefferson County and the Second Flat Fire in Harney County.

Beachcomb and Bench Fires

Both fires were extremely active overnight and saw wind-driven runs and long-range spotting. As of Sunday morning, the Beachcomb Fire had burned 2,352 acres and the Bench Fire burned 6,201 acres. The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office have issued levels 1, 2, and 3 evacuation notices. Wildfire updates are posted on the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs Fire Management Facebook page. The Oregon State Fire Marshal Red Incident Management Team has been assigned to the fire.

Second Flat Fire

The Second Flat Fire made a significant push Saturday and into the overnight hours. As of Sunday morning, the fire had burned 76,956 acres. The Harney County Sheriff’s Office has levels 1, 2, and 3 evacuations in place. Information about evacuations can be found on the Harney County Emergency Management website. Fire information is being posted to the 2026 Burns Basin Fires Facebook page. Oregon State Fire Marshal resources will be integrating with the Southern Area Team 5 to provide structural protection.

“The last two and half weeks have been extremely challenging for our firefighters and support staff,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “The forecast for the rest of the week is for continued hot and dry conditions. I’m asking every Oregonian and visitor to be wildfire aware. Sign up for emergency alerts, know the evacuation levels, and take action to prevent sparking any new fires.”

The Oregon State Fire Marshal has resources assigned to six conflagrations and several Immediate Response assignments as the state continues to aggressively fight numerous wildfires across Central and Eastern Oregon.

This is the nineth and tenth time the Emergency Conflagration Act has been invoked in 2026.

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

SALEM, Ore. – On Saturday afternoon, the Emergency Conflagration Act was invoked for the Shingle Fire in Grant and Wheeler counties. The Oregon State Fire Marshal is mobilizing its Blue Incident Management Team and resources to protect nearby communities from the fast-moving fire.

The Shingle Fire, 14 miles southeast of Mitchell, is estimated at 21,849 acres and is growing rapidly. Because of the fire’s growth, Crook, Grant, and Wheeler counties have issued varying levels of evacuations. For updated information, visit the Wheeler County Sheriff's Office, Grant County Emergency Management, and Crook County Sheriff's Office pages.

The National Weather Service has Red Flag Warnings in place for much of Oregon east of the Cascades through Saturday. Several fires across the state have seen rapid growth because of tinder dry conditions coupled with gusty winds.

“The conditions we are seeing across Oregon remain extremely concerning,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “We are using every available tool at our disposal to protect communities threatened by wildfire. While our firefighters work around the clock, we’re asking Oregonians to do what they can to prevent sparking any new fires.”

The Oregon State Fire Marshal has 37 task forces and strike teams assigned to six incidents across the state, including resources from California and Washington.

This is the eighth time the Emergency Conflagration Act has been invoked in 2026, all occurring in July.

For information about the Shingle Fire, a Facebook page has been set up.

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

SALEM, Ore. – On Friday evening, the Emergency Conflagration Act was invoked for the Crosswhite West Fire to protect the community of Marks Creek in Crook County. The Oregon State Fire Marshal has assigned its Red Incident Management Team and structural task forces. The team will work in unified command with the Oregon Department of Forestry Team 3.

Levels 1, 2 and 3 evacuations are in effect for the Crosswhite West Fire. County sheriff’s offices issue evacuation orders. The most current evacuation information is available at:

• Crook County: www.facebook.com/CrookCountySheriff
• Jefferson County: www.facebook.com/JeffersonCountyORSheriff/

A Red Flag Warning is in effect for the area through Saturday because of critical fire weather conditions of strong winds and warm temperatures, which will likely contribute to extreme fire behavior.

“The forecast remains extremely concerning as we head into the weekend. East of the Cascades is expecting temperatures in the 90s, with gusty winds,” State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple said. “It is imperative that Oregonians and visitors be aware of the extreme fire danger, know the evacuations levels, and to follow any order issued by law enforcement.”

Overnight Thursday, the Crosswhite Fire merged with the Box Springs Fire. The Crosswhite fire in Crook, Jefferson, and Wheeler counties has been divided into two zones, the Crosswhite West and Crosswhite East, with the Wheeler County line serving as the dividing point.

Updates for the Wheeler County portion of the fire will continue to be posted on the Rowe Creek Complex Fire Information page, while updates for the Crook County and Jefferson County portion will be available on the Brewer Fire Information page.

This is the seventh time the Emergency Conflagration Act has been invoked in 2026. It is also the seventh time the act has been invoked this month.

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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

[Medford, OR, July 28, 2026]---As we experience a nationwide blood crisis, and respond to dozens of wildfires in our state, we invite you to come join us as we open our new location to help service the people of SW Oregon. Learn how the Red Cross opens and supports disaster shelters, installs free smoke alarms as part of our Home Fire Campaign, builds partnerships through our Community Adaptation Program, collects blood for local hospitals, and provides free training to our volunteers.

• WHAT: Red Cross Medford chapter office grand opening
• WHEN: Wednesday, July 29, 4pm-6pm with a short program scheduled for 5:30pm
• WHERE: 1550 Biddle Road, Suite E/F, Medford, Oregon 97504
• WHY: Now’s the perfect time to get to know us as we navigate a busy wildfire season, blood crisis and building of new partnerships in the region.

We’ll have guest speakers, photo opportunities, refreshments for all those who attend, and a free raffle at 6pm.

Beyond this open house, here’s how you can help:

• Follow the Red Cross Cascades Region on social media or through our website to forward information to your networks:

website | facebook | twitter | instagram | blog

• Find where Red Cross shelters are located: Click Here
• To schedule a blood donation, Click Here and encourage someone to come with you and take a picture to post on social media to help spread the word. 

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.

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(MEDFORD, Ore.) - Representative Yunker's attack on frontline healthcare professionals—and the laws that give patients more time with their caregivers—would be laughable if the consequences weren't so serious. 

Instead of standing with patients and the nurses and staff who care for Southern Oregonians every day, Rep. Yunker has chosen to do the bidding of Asante's out-of-state healthcare executives, who are collecting millions while cutting services, closing hospital departments and clinics, and putting profits ahead of patient care. 

Shutting down local physical therapy clinics in Medford and Grants Pass is only the latest example of Asante executives collecting massive personal paychecks while cutting essential local healthcare and blaming workers. Physical therapists and staff at these clinics help Southern Oregonians regain the ability to walk, work and care for their families. This care is essential to keep patients healthy and mobile after illnesses and injuries and restore patients' dignity and independence.  

Nurses and healthcare professionals believe our community deserves healthcare that is accessible, affordable and accountable.  

Asante's executives must stop cutting our community’s safety net and start working together with local healthcare professionals to improve our community’s health and safety. 

Southern Oregonians, including Representative Yunker's constituents, deserve leaders who will stand with working families, not corporate healthcare interests. Local healthcare professionals are fighting for safe staffing, quality patient care, and access to healthcare across Southern Oregon. Healthcare executives are fighting to protect their profits. 

Asante's out-of-state executives are again choosing to cut our communities' care and blame our communities' healthcare providers. Rep. Yunker has made his choice too. He has sided with corporate healthcare executives over the nurses and staff who care for his constituents. Local healthcare professionals will continue standing with patients and our communities because healthcare should always put patients before profits. 

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