Josephine County, Ore. (24 Nov. 2025)- On Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 2:04 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a two-vehicle crash on Interstate 5, near milepost 62, in Josephine County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a Chevrolet S10, operated by Annette Dea Dimmick (34) of Grants Pass, was traveling southbound in the northbound lanes for unknown reasons and struck a northbound Volvo commercial motor vehicle and trailer, operated by David Michael Jellison (68) of Alliance (OH), head-on.

The operator of the Chevrolet (Dimmick) was declared deceased at the scene.

The operator of the Volvo (Jellison) and passenger, Ceejay Clay (29) of Warren (OH), suffered reported minor injuries and were transported to an area hospital.

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

OSP was assisted by the Josephine County Sheriff's Office, Rural Metro Fire, Grants Pass Fire, and ODOT.

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

Workers File Unfair Labor Practice Charge Against Legacy; Invite Executives Back to the Bargaining Table “We’ll bring the turkey, the sides and the pumpkin pie.”

(Portland, Ore.) – The Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) has filed an unfair labor practice charge against Legacy Health for illegally refusing to meet with advanced practice providers (APPs) and come to a fair contract agreement to prevent a strike. While Legacy has told workers, “We have been in active labor contract bargaining with staff and continue to work in good faith to create a contract that is beneficial to all parties.” In fact, Legacy executives and outside lawyers walked away from the bargaining table Nov. 20 and have said they would not continue contract discussions; a violation of federal law. 

The 135 advanced practice providers (APPs) at Legacy Health have offered to meet with Legacy executives every day leading up to a strike in order to reach a fair agreement that protects patients, enables Legacy to recruit and retain skilled caregivers, ends inequitable practices like unpaid work and averts the need for a strike. If Legacy continues illegally refusing to meet with healthcare providers, a strike will start Dec. 2.

“We’re fighting for a fair contract to give every patient what they deserve: shorter wait times, more available appointments and continuity with the caregivers you know and trust,” said Leigh Warsing, PA and ONA bargaining team member at Legacy. “We’re ready to reach a fair agreement that improves patient care and avoids a strike, but we need Legacy executives to come to the table.”

“We’ll bring the turkey, the sides and the pumpkin pie.” Warsing added. “Legacy executives just have to show up.”

• Click here to watch APPs press conference on Nov. 21 

The APPs at Legacy include nurse practitioners (NPs), physician associates (PAs), certified nurse midwives (CNMs), and clinical nurse specialists (CNSs) who care for patients in the Portland metro area and SW Washington. They are represented by the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA) which represents more than 3,500 frontline healthcare providers at hospitals and clinics throughout the Legacy Health system. 

While not unique, Legacy’s illegal refusal to meet with healthcare workers is unusual. Multiple Oregon hospitals and health systems, including Kaiser Permanente and St. Charles Bend, met with caregivers in the days leading up to a strike and reached fair agreements which prevented them. In recent years, ten California hospitals and health systems have also reached similar agreements in the 10 days prior to strikes. Multiple hospitals and health systems in New York, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Minnesota, and Illinois have also continued talks with frontline healthcare workers in the days before a strike and successfully reached agreements which prevented strikes from occurring. 

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

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Beginning today through Dec. 12, Bend Fire & Rescue invites the community to bring non-perishable food donations to any of our fire stations to help combat food insecurity for local families in need this holiday season.

Bend Fire is asking for donations of non-perishable food items such as canned goods, dried pasta and grains, and items like honey and sugar. Some of the most needed items include canned fruits and vegetables, soup and peanut butter. Donated food will be provided to NeighborImpact and distributed through their network of local pantries, meal sites, and shelters.

Help us put food on the table and keep bellies full this season by donating your non-perishable food items to any of the bins stationed outside at the following locations:

• Bend Fire & Rescue Stations:
  • West Fire Station – 1212 SW Simpson Ave., Bend
  • East Fire Station – 62420 Hamby Rd., Bend
  • North Fire Station – 63377 Jamison St., Bend
  • South Fire Station – 61080 Country Club Dr., Bend
  • Tumalo Fire Station – 64725 Cook Ave., Tumalo
  • Pilot Butte Fire Station – 425 NE 15th St., Bend 

Thank you for helping give back to our neighbors this season. Learn more about the NeighborImpact Food Bank at neighborimpact.org/get-help/foodbank/.

Looking for more ways to give?

• Bend Fire & Rescue’s Santa Express is coming to Bend neighborhoods Dec. 5, 6 and 8 collecting donations of new toys, gently used coats and non-perishable food. Learn more about this fun community event at bendoregon.gov/santa-express.  
• NeighborImpact’s Online Food Drive allows you to donate fresh produce and healthy staples for local food banks.
• Donate money to NeighborImpact or a food pantry near you.

Four steps to a happy (and healthy) holiday meal

UPDATE: Over the course of an extensive investigation, Bend Police identified the suspect in this incident as 19-year-old Bend resident Saxton James Deaton. 

At approximately 1:40 a.m., members of the Central Oregon Emergency Response Team, Bend Police detectives and officers executed a search warrant at Deaton’s home in the 900 block of Butler Market Road. Deaton was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Deschutes County Jail on suspicion of attempted first-degree assault, menacing and unlawful use of a weapon.  

Date: November 23, 2025  

Case #: 2025-00069676

Incident: Shooting (non-injury) during road rage incident 

Date / Time of Incident: November 23, 2025 / 1:45 p.m.  

Location: SE Third Street/SE Wilson Avenue, Bend 

Victim: 19-year-old Bend resident 

Suspect: White male adult, late 20’s, heavy set, blonde hair with a beard

Suspect Vehicle: White compact SUV

At around 1:45 PM a 19-year-old motorist traveling near SE Third Street and SE Wilson Avenue reported that another motorist had shot his vehicle with a firearm. The victim was not injured. BPD officers and detectives responded to the scene and are investigating. A preliminary investigation has shown a single round was fired into the victim’s vehicle after a road rage incident on SE Third Street. The suspect in this case is outstanding, but his physical description and his vehicle description are listed above.

Prior to the incident, it was reported that the suspect vehicle was driving at a high rate of speed southbound on SE 3^rd Street in the area of the SE 3^rd Street and SE Railroad Avenue, and committed an unsafe passing maneuver near the railroad overpass.  Anyone who has video footage from businesses or vehicles in the area is asked to contact police dispatch and speak with Bend PD detectives. 

PORTLAND, Ore.— The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon filed a civil forfeiture complaint today against two properties located in Provo, Utah, purchased as part of an alleged multi-layered scheme to defraud the United States and a nonprofit organization.

According to the complaint, from July 2020 through May 2025, Benjamin Young, 39, of Provo, Utah, used his position as Financial Manager for a non-profit organization to gain access to its financial accounts and embezzle funds, including federally backed Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans intended to support payroll and essential operations during the COVID-19 pandemic. He then used the funds as part of his purchase of a $3.5 million commercial office suite in Provo in the name of Square the Books, a separate company he controlled, and leased the property back to the non-profit organization.

To conceal the origin of the funds, Young allegedly fabricated a $2.5 million short-term loan and used the fictitious debt to secure a U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loan under false pretenses. While Young certified that the proceeds from the SBA loan would repay the short-term loan, the funds used by Young to buy the commercial property actually came from the diverted PPP loan proceeds and other funds Young diverted from his employer. Young is alleged to have laundered the SBA loan proceeds and transferred the funds to his personal bank accounts, using a portion to purchase a second property – a $570,000 condominium in Provo.

Based on the complaint, the United States will seek to forfeit the two properties.

The case is being investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Small Business Administration – Office of Inspector General.  The civil forfeiture action is being handled by Christopher Cardani, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. 

The accusations in the complaint, and the description of the complaint, constitute only allegations that certain property is subject to forfeiture. The United States must prove, by a preponderance of the evidence, that the property is subject to forfeiture.

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November 21, 2025

Contact: Erica Heartquist, PHD.Communications@oha.oregon.gov

The West Coast Health Alliance Stands with Scientific Evidence: Vaccines Are Not Linked to Autism

The West Coast Health Alliance continues to strongly recommend vaccines to protect our children, noting that rigorous research of millions of people in multiple countries over decades provides high quality evidence that vaccines are not linked to autism. The Alliance is deeply concerned about inaccurate claims to the contrary recently posted on the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.  

Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition with multiple contributing genetic and environmental factors. Suggesting it stems from any single cause, such as vaccination, misleads families who deserve accurate guidance. It is not only a disservice to families seeking clarity about vaccines but also potentially harmful to autistic individuals and their families.

Vaccines are thoroughly tested and remain one of the most import ant tools for preventing infectious diseases. Public health guidance on immunization must be grounded in credible, evidence-based science to help parents and caregivers who may be receiving conflicting or inaccurate messages about immunization.

The Alliance encourages families to seek information from trusted health care providers and reputable medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics.

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Nurse practitioners, physician associates, certified nurse midwives, and clinical nurse specialists treat patients in Legacy hospitals and clinics.

(Portland, Ore.) — At a press conference this morning, advanced practice providers (APPs) from Legacy Health—represented by the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA)—announced that they delivered a formal strike notice to Legacy executives. The notice informs management that 135 APPs across the Legacy Health system will begin an open-ended strike on December 2, 2025, at 6 a.m., if Legacy fails to reach a fair contract agreement.

Legacy continues to lag behind what Kaiser and OHSU offer their APPs in total compensation and will struggle to recruit and retain top frontline caregivers unless it makes meaningful movement at the bargaining table. Many Legacy APPs aren’t even compensated for the administrative work they’re required to complete, a situation that underscores the deep inequities they are fighting to fix.

• Click here to watch ONA APP’s press conference. 

The APPs include nurse practitioners (NPs), physician associates (PAs), certified nurse midwives (CNMs), and clinical nurse specialists (CNSs) who provide direct patient care in Legacy hospitals and clinics throughout the Portland Metro Area and in SW Washington. 

“We are striking because we want our exceptional healthcare providers to continue caring for our community. Our team has made Legacy a place patients can trust. With Legacy’s current contract offer, my colleagues will leave for better-paying, better-supported jobs elsewhere—leaving patients with fewer, less experienced providers when they need us the most,” said Leigh Warsing, PA and ONA bargaining team member at Legacy. “Legacy management needs to return to the table and negotiate a fair contract that retains experienced providers and protects the safety of every patient who comes through our doors.”

ONA has offered to meet with Legacy every day leading up to the strike, but Legacy has refused to meet. APPs remain ready, willing, and able to negotiate around the clock to reach an agreement and avert a strike.

Reasons for the strike: 

• The current proposal from Legacy keeps APP wages well behind APPs at other area health systems.  
• APPs are routinely working unpaid hours to deliver patient care, complete required administrative tasks, and during patient hand-offs. 
• APPs should be paid for holidays and weather closures and not have to use their annual paid leave (which should be used for vacation/personal needs) to make their paychecks whole.

APPs at Legacy formed their union in December 2023 and have been in contract negotiations since May 2024.

Healthcare workers have provided Legacy more than 10-days advance notice of the strike to give Legacy time to make alternate arrangements for patients and determine what services they will continue to provide.  

Legacy Refuses to Continue Bargaining 

On Thursday, November 20, Legacy executives and their hired law firm walked away from bargaining, telling APPs they would not continue negotiations because of the strike notice. APPs have offered to meet every day to reach an agreement and avoid a strike.

Picket lines will be established at Legacy Good Samaritan and Legacy Emanuel hospitals from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. on December 2. Starting December 3, picket lines will run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. seven days a week. This is an open-ended strike.

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

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Tillamook State Forest—An unusually large illegal dump site in the Tillamook State Forest has been cleaned up thanks to the work of adults in custody (AICs) from South Fork Forest Camp (SFFC).

“It was a big mess and a risk to the public and the environment,” said Zach Rabe, the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Tillamook District Operations Coordinator. “The South Fork crew hauled off 12 dump trailers full of garbage.”

When the SFFC crews work on illegal dump site cleanups it’s typically a one- or two-day task.

“This one site took us a week,” said Chad Powell, Institution Work Programs Coordinator at SFFC. “It looked like someone took the entire contents of their house and put it in the woods. Even though this is dirty and kind of gross work, the AICs took pride in working fast and loading the trailer efficiently to make as few trips as possible.”

While AICs wear basic protective equipment when handling materials, it is important to ensure that more dangerous substances are not present. Before the crew could begin the cleanup, law enforcement swept the camp for hazardous materials.

“Safety is a top concern when we remove any illegal dump site—we just don’t know what is in these sites,” said Rabe. “If any hazardous materials are found, then we must hire HAZMAT contractors who wear full personal protective equipment. Those types of cleanups are very expensive.”

None was found at this site on Fox Ridge Road off State Highway 6, so SFFC crews could do the work. Even so, Rabe estimated it would end up costing $8,000 to remove all the junk.

Illegal dumping in Oregon’s State Forests is a growing and expensive problem. 

“We are not sure why, but since 2021 we have seen a lot more illegal dumping,” said Rabe.  “For example, we would typically find just one or two abandoned vehicles in our district each year. Now we are seeing around 10 a year.”

Those cars and large RVs are expensive and difficult to remove.

“Some are burned out, and most are in remote areas, so it is hard to find towing companies willing to do the work,” said Rabe. “When they are able to be accessed for removal, getting them out of the forest costs around $3,700 for an RV and about $550 for a car.”

Although ODF workers find some dump sites and abandoned vehicles, many are reported by concerned citizens.

“If you see a dump site or abandoned vehicle, take a photo and note the location and contact us,” said Rabe. 

The dumping problem has grown so much and is so difficult to track that ODF just went live with a new mapping system to keep better track of garbage, vehicles and vandalism.

“We just started using the new Vandalism Activity Tracking System last week,” said Rabe.  “It is a field map-based system that allows us to plot points and mark whether it is a garbage, vehicle or vandalism act that we need to take some action to remediate.”

With the new tool and better tracking, the Tillamook district and other ODF districts should be able to budget better for cleanup costs.

“This should allow us to better understand this growing problem and hopefully find more funding, whether through our budget or by applying for grants, to fix these problems.”

Back at South Fork Forest Camp, which is jointly owned and operated by the Oregon Departments of Corrections and Forestry, the AICs do much more for state forests than just cleanups.

“Nearly all of our 120 or so AICs are trained in wildfire suppression—and are assigned to  10-person crews to fight wildfires, we have workshops that supply all the wooden signs for state forests, they are a key part of the recreation program helping to maintain trails and doing building projects at campgrounds, there is a fish hatchery on site and much more,” said Powell.

Not only does SFFC provide cost effective, skilled AICs for state forests, but it gives the AICs a great opportunity to improve their job skills.

“One of our main objectives is to help reduce recidivism by modeling pro social behavior and teach work skills that help adults in custody be productive citizens upon release,” said Powell. “We are doing that here every day and setting these men up for a chance at a successful future.”

Go here for more information about SFFC.

To report vandalism, garbage or an abandoned vehicle in ODF’s Tillamook District call (503) 842-2545.  

To find other ODF district contact info go here.

Go here for more on State Forests.

Polk County, Ore. (Nov. 21, 2025)- On Thursday, November 20, 2025, at 2:56 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single vehicle crash on Highway 51, near milepost 4, in Polk County.

The preliminary investigation indicated a southbound Ford Ranger, operated by Kyle Edward Maldonado (23) of Keizer, left the roadway for unknown reasons and rolled down a slope.

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

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

OSP was assisted by the Polk County Sheriff's Office, Polk County Fire, Independence Police Department, and ODOT.

# # #

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

EMBARGOED UNTIL 10 A.M. NOVEMBER 21, 2025

WHAT: Advanced practice providers (APPs) from Legacy Health will hold a press conference to discuss their notice of an open-ended strike starting Tuesday, December 2 at 6 a.m. Following prepared remarks, speakers will take questions from the press.

APPs delivered their formal strike notice to Legacy management on November 20 after more than 18 months at the bargaining table. Since APPs voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike on October 14, 2025, they have met with Legacy management seven times in an effort to reach a fair contract. Instead of continued engagement, Legacy’s hired legal team told APPs they were walking away from negotiations and would not consider any additional proposals.

Despite Legacy’s refusal to continue bargaining, APPs have offered bargaining dates and remain fully committed to reaching an agreement and preventing a work stoppage. Legacy’s legal team has made it clear they will not return to the table during the legally-required notice period—a choice that brings the health system closer to an avoidable strike.

The APPs are represented by the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA). They joined the statewide organization in December 2023.

WHEN: 10:30 a.m., Friday, November 21, 2025  

WHERE: Oregon Nurses Association, 18765 SW Boones Ferry Rd., Tualatin, OR. 3rd Floor

WHO: APPs who are part of the Legacy Downtown/Specialties Bargaining Unit 

• Becky Berman, NP 
• April Callister, PA 
• Melissa Dolbec, NP 
• Leigh Warsing, PA 

WHY: Legacy continues to lag behind regional healthcare systems like Kaiser and OHSU in APP compensation including benefits—putting the organization at risk of losing top frontline caregivers unless it makes meaningful movement at the bargaining table. APPs are one of the fastest-growing professions in healthcare. They work alongside physicians to expand access, reduce wait times, and ensure patients receive timely, high-quality care.

Despite this critical role, Legacy does not offer competitive wages, and some APPs are now considering leaving the system. Many are not even compensated for the administrative work required of them—an inequity that highlights the systemic issues APPs are fighting to address.

The 135 APPs preparing to strike include nurse practitioners (NPs), physician associates (PAs), certified nurse midwives (CNMs), and clinical nurse specialists (CNSs) who provide direct patient care across the Portland Metro Area and Southwest Washington. 

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Clatsop State Forest—The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) completed a stream enhancement project on Rock Creek in the Clatsop State Forest this summer to improve stream habitat and water quality.

“The goal of this project was to restore natural stream processes and instream complexity by placing large wood into the stream channel to improve spawning and rearing habitat, fish production, and water quality,” said Erik Moberly, Aquatic and Riparian Specialist for ODF’s State Forest Division. “The trees, some with root wads attached, that were placed will help influence the formation of pools, spawning gravels, and provide cover for aquatic species.”

Rock Creek is a tributary to the Nehalem River in Clatsop County and is home to several anadromous fish species—fish that live in saltwater but migrate to fresh water to spawn—including Endangered Species Act-listed Coho salmon, fall Chinook, winter steelhead and Pacific lamprey. Cutthroat trout and other native fish species are also found in Rock Creek.

Trees for the project were selected from an adjacent timber sale based on size and stream characteristics and staged near the placement sites. An excavator operated by Bighorn Logging out of Banks, Oregon, was used to move the trees into the stream.  The placements were originally planned to be implemented with a cable yarder, but Stimson Lumber agreed to provide access to their road network resulting in more precise placement of the logs.

A total of 30 trees were used across five sites, resulting in enhancements to approximately 1,000 feet of stream. Project costs were around $5,000, excluding the staff time to plan and implement the project.

“Mike Morton, a road specialist from the Forest Grove District, administered the contract from a nearby timber sale where the trees originated from and assisted with the project to help keep costs down,” said Moberly.  “With the trees already being felled and operators on-site it’s a commonsense approach.  We also partner with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, private landowners and operators, and in many cases non-profit groups like local watershed councils.”

The goal is to enhance Oregon’s state forests for all its residents.

“State Forest lands are actively managed under forest management plans to provide economic, environmental, and social benefits to Oregonians,” said Moberly. “Projects like these positively impact all three of those goals.”

 For more on Oregon’s State Forests see the ODF website.

Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) warns investors to stay alert for financial frauds and imposters dishing out scams this holiday season.

As Thanksgiving approaches, DFR reminds investors to be alert for scammers that are setting the table for financial fraud. Don’t let a con artist carve into your savings this holiday season.

According to the North American Securities Administrators Association’s (NASAA) 2025 enforcement report, scams involving digital assets, social media, and impersonation remain among the top threats this year. Artificial intelligence (AI) has made it easier for criminals to cook up convincing deceptions. Fraudsters can clone voices, generate fake videos, and impersonate trusted people or institutions, all to mislead victims into sharing personal information, transferring funds, or granting access to accounts or devices. These scams are increasingly sophisticated and can be financially devastating for victims and their loved ones.

“Scammers are serving up more convincing schemes than ever before,” said TK Keen, DFR administrator. “Before you hand over your hard-earned money, take a moment to verify who you’re dealing with. A quick check can keep your savings off the fraudster’s menu.”

DFR encourages investors to follow these steps to help keep their finances safe.

• Check the ingredients: Always verify that any investment professional or firm is properly registered in Oregon.
• Don’t bite too fast: Be cautious with unsolicited investment offers, especially those shared through social media, texts, or messaging apps.
• Avoid the pressure cooker: If someone’s pushing you to “act now,” that’s a red flag. Real opportunities don’t come with an expiration timer. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• Pass along the warning: If you suspect a scam or have been the victim of a financial fraud, report it to law enforcement or your state securities regulator.

You can learn more about investment frauds and how to protect yourself by visiting DFR’s website on avoiding investment fraud and NASAA’s investor education resources center.

If anyone feels they have been a victim of fraud can contact one of our consumer advocates at 1-888-877-4894 (toll-free) or email dfr.financialserviceshelp.dcbs.oregon.gov.

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About Oregon DFR: The 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.

Deschutes County, OR — A growing number of high school bonfire parties across Deschutes County are leading to serious safety concerns, prompting the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office to issue a public warning ahead of Thanksgiving Break. These informal gatherings have escalated into events marked by violence, criminal activity, and unsafe conditions that are putting young people at risk.

These gatherings, often held on public lands during weekends and school breaks, have increasingly involved serious safety risks. Deputies have responded to multiple incidents in recent weeks, many of which could have lasting consequences for those involved.

“We care deeply about the safety and well-being of our youth,” said Jason Carr, Public Information Officer for the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office. “Our goal is not to punish, but to prevent harm. We want to work together with families, students, and the community to avoid a tragedy.”

Recent investigations have included reports of:

• Physical assaults, including group altercations
• Sexual assaults
• Weapons offenses and firearms present at events
• Property and vehicle damage
• Attendance by adults well beyond high school age
• Felony-level criminal activity
• DUII & Minor in Possession (MIP)

These incidents have occurred in areas such as:

• BLM land east of Redmond, especially at “The Brand”
• Coyner Road area
• Forest Service Land near Skyliners Road
• McGrath Road and nearby locations
• Mayfield Pond area

Some of these events have been recorded and shared on social media, further increasing the risk and visibility of unsafe behavior.

The Sheriff's Office is asking for the community’s help:

• Parents: Talk with your teens about the risks of attending unsupervised parties. Stay engaged and informed about their plans, especially during school breaks.
• Students: Know your safety matters. What may seem like a fun night can quickly turn into a dangerous situation. Look out for one another and make wise choices.
• Community members: If you see or hear about planned gatherings in remote areas, please report them to law enforcement.

“We understand that teens are looking for ways to connect and have fun,” said Carr. “But there have been too many close calls at these unsupervised parties. Our concern is real, and we’re asking for the community’s help to prevent teens from getting seriously hurt.”

The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office will continue to monitor known gathering areas and respond to any calls or concerns from community members.

To report suspicious or concerning activity, please call the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office non-emergency line at (541) 693-6911. Only Dial 911 in the case of an emergency.

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Salem – The Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services’ (DCBS) Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) will be hosting a public hearing on prescription drug prices on Thursday, Dec. 4, at 1:30 p.m. via Zoom.

The public is invited to participate and here are some ways you can:

Let your voice be heard: DFR is asking for the public’s help before the 2025 public hearing. The division has set up a brief survey for consumers to share their stories about rising prescription drug prices. Drug prices play a major role in health care decisions of Oregonians, and the cost of prescription drugs have steadily increased. The division wants to hear your stories about the costs of prescription drugs and how it has affected you and your family. The previous testimonials are available on our website.

Attend the hearing via Zoom: There will be opportunities for public comment, and Oregon legislators will serve as moderators for panel presentations. The legislators include Sen. Deb Patterson, Sen. Diane Linthicum, Rep. Emerson Levy, and Rep. Rob Nosse. We encourage you to testify at the hearing or provide written testimony. For more information about the hearing, email x.prices@dcbs.oregon.gov">rx.prices@dcbs.oregon.gov.

DFR has invited speakers to talk about biosimilars and their marketing. A biosimilar is a biologic product that has been found to have no clinically meaningful differences from its comparable brand-name medication by the FDA. Those speakers include:

• Benjamin N. Rome (Harvard Medical School)
• Alex Keeton (Association for Accessible Medicines)
• Michael Reilly (Alliance for Safe Biologic Medicines)

Invited presenters to speak about challenges and ideas for financing drugs that create issues for traditional insurance financing models include:

• Daniel Ollendorf (Institute for Clinical and Economic Review – ICER)
• Deborah “Dee” Weston (Oregon Health Authority)
• Sharon Lamberton (PhRMA)

You can learn more about the agenda on our website. There will be opportunities for public comment. Oregon Insurance Commissioner TK Keen will facilitate the hearing.

The Prescription Drug Price Transparency Act (ORS 646A.689) directed the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services to establish a transparency program to accept reports and disclose certain information from prescription drug manufacturers, health insurance carriers, and consumers on drug prices.

The goal of the program is to provide accountability for prescription drug pricing through the notice and disclosure of specific drug costs and price information from pharmaceutical manufacturers, health insurers, and consumers.
 

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About Oregon DFR: The 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.

PORTLAND, Ore.— A Portland man pleaded guilty today to arson at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office in South Portland.

Trenten Edward Barker, 34, pleaded guilty to Arson of a Federal Building.

According to court documents, on June 11, 2025, a group of individuals began constructing a barricade of large objects and debris against the vehicle gate of the ICE building to prevent law enforcement officers from exiting through the gate. Barker lit a flare from his backpack and threw it onto the pile of debris. The flare ignited the debris, causing a fire to start.

On October 22, 2025, Barker was charged by information with Arson of a Federal Building.

Barker faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a 250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. He will be sentenced on March 4, 2026, before a U.S. District Court Judge.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Portland Police Bureau. The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon.

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Portland, OR — Kick off the holiday season on Sunday, December 7 at Holiday Cheer: A Celebration of Oregon Authors. Visit with more than 65 local writers from 12pm to 4pm as you sip on hot cocoa, enjoy festive treats, and get a jump on your holiday shopping! Admission is free and includes access to both the book sale and museum exhibitions.

This year, some of the Pacific Northwest’s most prominent authors will be at OHS selling everything from children’s books to guidebooks to mysteries to histories! Featured authors include Pulitzer Prize–winning cartoonist Jack Ohman, New York Times bestselling historical fiction author Kristina McMorris, Oregon Secretary of State Tobias Read, journalist and podcaster Leah Sottile, and Steve Prefontaine biographer Brendan O’Meara. View a full list of participating authors at ohs.org/holidaycheer.

To add to the festivities, the popular Meier & Frank Santaland display will be back on view! Generations of Oregonians have fond memories of the downtown Portland Meier & Frank department store’s Santaland. A ride on the iconic Monorail and a chance to sit on Santa’s lap became a Christmas tradition for many families. Following the closure of Macy’s downtown store (which purchased Meier & Frank in 2005), a small number of items from Santaland were donated to OHS, which have been displayed annually since 2018. Come share in the holiday cheer with a visit to this nostalgic display, featuring Rudolph, animatronic elves, holiday decor, a model of the beloved monorail. The well-remembered Cinnamon Bear costume from Lipman’s holiday traditions will also be on display.

The museum galleries will be open from 12pm to 5pm. In addition to Santaland, featured exhibitions will include:

• She Flies with Her Own Wings, a look at Oregon’s golden age of aviation in the 1930s that shares how flight reshaped lives and technology.
• June Drake: Preserving the Past to Shape the Future, a retrospective of photographer June D. Drake’s work documenting life in Silverton, Oregon, and surrounding areas and the evolution of rural Oregon over six decades.
• The Yasui Family: An American Story, which shares one Oregon family’s experiences of racism, incarceration, and their unwavering commitment to justice, reflecting broader civil rights struggles in America.
• “We Were All Living a Dream”, a photographic exhibition of Donna Pollach’s intimate portraits of feminist and lesbian communities in 1970s Portland, chronicling their activism, camaraderie, and challenges.

For 56 years, OHS has celebrated the state’s rich literary talents at this annual book signing event. Book sales at Holiday Cheer support the Oregon Historical Society’s mission to preserve our state’s history and make it accessible to everyone in ways that advance knowledge and inspire curiosity about all the people, places, and events that have shaped Oregon.

About the Oregon Historical Society

For more than 125 years, the Oregon Historical Society has served as the state’s collective memory, preserving a vast collection of objects, photographs, maps, manuscript materials, books, films, and oral histories. Our research library, museum, digital platforms, educational programming, and historical journal make Oregon’s history open and accessible to all. We exist because history is powerful, and because a history as deep and complex as Oregon’s cannot be contained within a single story or point of view.

Milton-Freewater, Ore. -- The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Milton-Freewater office plans to move into a new location Monday, December 8. The office will move from its current location at 309 N. Columbia Street to 151 Sykes Boulevard, Suite A.

The new office will include Self-Sufficiency Program (SSP), Oregon Eligibility Partnership, Child Welfare (CW), Aging and People with Disabilities and Vocational Rehabilitation programs. Also, several community partners will be in the new office on select days, including: Oregon Employment Department, Training Employment Consortium and Domestic Violence Services. The office will be open weekdays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The 18 staff members will move in throughout the weekend through Monday morning.

“It will be such a meaningful change, and we’re truly excited about the new office,” Dianna Ilaoa, SSP District Manager, said. “This isn’t just a new building — it’s a space created with care for our staff, our clients and the community we serve. We hope everyone who walks through the doors feels supported, welcomed and valued.” Lidwinner Machado is the CW District Manager.

The new office has an indoor and an outdoor play area for children. The space is designed to be trauma-informed, with calming colors, quite spaces, white noise for privacy in conversations and modern, comfortable furniture for client visits. There will be increased bus service for several weeks in the area for greater convenience to people coming to the new office. ODHS will be leasing half of the 151 Sykes Boulevard building. They had been in their former building for more than 30 years.

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About ODHS

The ODHS programs provide financial supports to families which include SNAP, TANF, Domestic Violence Survivor Benefits, child care and medical benefits. The JOBS program connects families to a Family Coach for an assessment and supports to achieve their goals and create pathways out of poverty. ODHS staff assist individuals and families in navigating resources, including finding and funding childcare, providing gas support, and offering transportation to domestic violence shelters, medical appointments, and other essential visits. ODHS collaborates with various partners to address family needs and connects families to affordable housing, as well as mental health and other needed resources. ODHS works with other providers to provide employment and education opportunities, ensuring access to vital community resources.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Hotline: 503-813-6018 

PacifiCorp reaches settlement with 1,434 plaintiffs related to the 2020 Labor Day Fires​

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PORTLAND, Ore. (Nov. 19, 2025) — PacifiCorp has reached a $150 million settlement with 1,434 plaintiffs associated with Labor Day 2020 fires. Since 2020, the company has settled nearly 4,200 wildfire claims for $1.6 billion, which represents approximately 70 percent of individual claims in California and Oregon. The vast majority of the remaining claims are a part of the James class action litigation.

“We are doing the responsible thing and we are gratified to resolve these claims to provide plaintiffs with some closure to move on,” said Ryan Flynn, Pacific Power president. “The process that led to this settlement represents the fairest and most efficient way to resolve wildfire litigation. Class action litigation is costly, complex, takes several years to run its course and is a barrier to reasonable outcomes.”

PacifiCorp remains willing to settle all outstanding reasonable claims related to the Echo Mountain, 242 and South Obenchain fires. Nearly 20 percent of plaintiffs in the James class action have now settled with PacifiCorp.

Due to the compelling findings in the Oregon Department of Forestry report that concluded PacifiCorp’s assets did not initiate or contribute to the Beachie Creek/Santiam Canyon fire, the company will continue to actively defend against those claims.​

Plaintiffs in the settlement are represented by the Warren Allen, Swigart Law Group and Spreter | Petiprin law firms.​

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“We are glad to have reached reasonable settlements with PacifiCorp for our current clients,” said George McCoy, an attorney at Warren Allen. “Those outcomes reflect a shared commitment with PacifiCorp to resolving disputes through a principled approach that serves affected Oregon communities. This matter will not be resolved through targeted or punitive legislation. It will not be resolved through a drawn-out trial process. Rather, it will be resolved by continuing the collaborative problem-solving approach used to reach this agreement that benefits Oregonians. We will continue our efforts to help rebuild Oregon communities recovering from the 2020 Labor Day wildfires.”​

The settlement not only provides relief for those impacted by the Labor Day 2020 fires, but is also a critical step in stabilizing the financial health of the company and ensuring the delivery of safe and reliable power to over 2 million customers across six-states, including 630,000 customers in Oregon​.

“This settlement between plaintiffs’ counsel and PacifiCorp demonstrates that the parties can come to the table and work out agreements to compensate Oregonians impacted by wildfire,” said Oregon Representative Pam Marsh, D-Ashland. “We need our utilities to keep the lights on and to make continued investments building out the electrical grid to support growth throughout our state. To do that, they must be in a place where the market and investors see them as stable.”

The parties engaged Judge Peter Lichtman (Ret.) of Signature Resolution to preside over the negotiations that resulted in this settlement.

"For the last five-plus years, I have served as Special Master and Mediator in Wildfire matters that have unfortunately affected the Southwestern Region of the United States, inclusive of Oregon,” said Judge Lichtman. “In mediating this and other Labor Day 2020 fire cases, I found PacifiCorp to be professional, engaged, and genuinely committed to resolving valid claims that were presented to it. PacifiCorp has consistently carried out its settlement negotiations in good faith, making sure that the outcomes are fair and reasonable to the affected families.”

Today’s settlement follows other recent settlements between PacifiCorp and more than 90 Oregon wineries and timber companies, reached over the past month with the assistance of Judge Karsten H. Rasmussen (Ret.) a retired Lane County Circuit Court Judge who served 19 years on the bench, including six as Presiding Judge. Judge Rasmussen also previously served as a Democratic state senator representing rural Lane and Douglas counties.

“I have mediated hundreds of cases stemming from the Labor Day 2020 fires,” said Judge Rasmussen. “I can confidently say that in every case involving PacifiCorp, PacifiCorp has taken a respectful and collaborative approach to working with plaintiff’s counsel to resolve claims for negatively impacted individuals. This has resulted in efficient resolution that provides impacted individuals with reasonable and timely settlements and afforded these folks the opportunity to move on with their lives.”​

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For more than a century, PacifiCorp has provided safe, affordable and reliable power and has served as a key driver of economic growth throughout Oregon. The company has an industry-leading wildfire mitigation program built upon significant investments in system strengthening, situational awareness informed by advanced risk forecasting and modeling, and protective operational practices. ​

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The growing threat of wildfires affects everyone and is larger than any single company, industry or government. It is critical that wildfire-related issues be solved holistically, with businesses, governments and key stakeholders working together to design and implement constructive, enduring solutions.  ​

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About PacifiCorp

PacifiCorp is one of the lowest-cost electrical providers in the United States, serving more than 2 million customers. The company operates as Rocky Mountain Power in Idaho, Utah and Wyoming and as Pacific Power in California, Oregon and Washington. PacifiCorp provides safe and reliable service through a vast, integrated system of generation and transmission that connects communities with the largest regulated utility owner of wind power in the West. For more information, visit PacifiCorp.com. 

Bend, Ore. – The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) is asking the community to help reach its $50,000 fundraising goal for the 25th Annual Shop with a Cop program. With just a few weeks to go before the event, $18,000 has been raised so far—and community support is critical to making this year’s program a success.

Shop with a Cop is a long-standing tradition that pairs local law enforcement officers with children in need of a special holiday shopping experience. Kids are nominated through local schools and community organizations, and together with law enforcement, they shop for warm clothing, school supplies, basic necessities, and a few holiday gifts. The program is entirely funded by donations—no tax dollars are used.

“This program is about meeting real needs and showing families that their community cares,” said Jason Carr, Public Information Officer for the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office. “We’re asking individuals, businesses, and organizations to help us reach our $50,000 goal so we can serve as many children as possible this holiday season.”

Recent contributions include $2,000 from the Elks BPOE RV’ers Club and $1,500 from the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Posse, both of whom recently visited the Sheriff’s Office to present their donations in person. Shopping will take place on December 2nd at the Redmond Walmart, and on December 3rd and 4th at the Bend Walmart. 

Want to make a difference? Here’s how you can donate:

• Online: https://sheriff.deschutes.org/community/programs/shop-with-a-cop/
• By Check: Payable to: Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office – Shop with a Cop
  Mail to: 63333 Hwy 20, Bend, OR 97703
• In Person: Drop off your donation at the Sheriff’s Office on Hwy 20. Please label it “Shop with a Cop.”

Donations Accepted Year-Round:

Although Shop with a Cop occurs in December, donations are welcome throughout the year. Every dollar helps provide essentials and holiday joy to children and families in Deschutes County. The Sheriff's Office would greatly appreciate your help making the 25th Anniversary of Shop with a Cop the most impactful yet. Your support can brighten a child’s holiday and make a lasting difference.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
November 19, 2025
 

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Gail Krumenauer, State Employment Economist

(971) 301-3771

Video and Audio available at 10 a.m. PT

David Cooke, Economist (971) 375-5288

Employment Reports Delayed Again After Federal Government Shutdown

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has resumed production of the monthly employment reports for the nation on a delayed schedule after the lapse in federal government appropriations that began on Oct. 1, 2025.

The most recent update from the BLS on Wednesday, Nov. 19 says, “BLS will not publish an October 2025 Employment Situation news release. Establishment survey data from the Current Employment Statistics survey for October 2025 will be published with the November 2025 data. Household survey data from the Current Population Survey could not be collected for the October 2025 reference period due to a lapse in appropriations. The household survey data is not able to be retroactively collected. The collection period for November 2025 data will be extended for both surveys, and extra processing time will be added.”

Currently, Oregon’s monthly nonfarm job estimates and unemployment rate are still not available beyond August 2025 and publication dates for the states and metropolitan areas have not been announced.

As of August, preliminary estimates showed Oregon’s unemployment rate was 5.0%, and employers added 6,900 jobs to nonfarm payrolls. In the absence of these current, principle monthly indicators, the Oregon Employment Department’s Workforce and Economic Research Division continues tracking trends in the department’s other data sources to assess the labor market. These include job vacancies and unemployment insurance claims.

Oregon’s latest quarterly job vacancy survey results show hiring demand remained generally stable over the past year, but did not increase as much as would typically occur mid-year. Oregon’s private employers have reported between about 50,000 and 54,000 job vacancies at any given time from October 2024 to September 2025.

Claims for unemployment insurance (UI) show a partial picture, as only a portion of all unemployed Oregonians are eligible for these benefits. First-time or initial UI claims in recent weeks appeared to be within the typical range for this time of year. Ongoing or continued claims have followed seasonal trends, but at elevated levels compared with recent years. Oregon has averaged 33,600 continued claims per week so far in 2025, about 5,600 (or 20%) higher than the average during the same timeframe in 2024.

Next Press Releases

The BLS will update its revised news release schedule as new information becomes available. The Oregon Employment Department plans to highlight the latest available local labor market news on QualityInfo.org on Tuesday, Nov. 25. The Research Division’s schedule of future releases will be updated as federal partner agencies issue more guidance.

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SALEM, Ore. — The Emergency Fire Cost Committee (EFCC) will meet at 10 a.m. on Nov. 26, 2025, in the Tillamook Room, Building C, Oregon Department of Forestry at 2600 State Street in Salem. This is the first meeting of the new EFCC since the passage of HB 3940 in the 2025 Legislative Session that resulted in changes to committee membership, fiduciary responsibilities and purpose. The new law shifts the committee's focus from large fire costs to preparedness (district and association fiscal budgets) but retains strategic investment authority. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda.

The committee’s agenda includes:

• Selection of committee chair
• Fire season report
• Discussion of EFCC’s new role in the statewide protection system under House Bill (HB) 3940
• Decisions on policy and Oregon Administrative Rule changes resulting from HB 3940
• 2026 meeting schedule
• Administrator report

The meeting is open to the public to attend in-person or virtually via Teams. Public comments will be accepted near the end of the meeting. Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-881-8292 or by email at na.m.hobbs@odf.oregon.gov">lorna.m.hobbs@odf.oregon.gov.

The Emergency Fire Cost Committee (EFCC) oversees the Oregon Forest Land Protection Fund (OFLPF), established by the Oregon Legislature as a fund with the purpose of providing funds for fiscal year budgets of forest protection districts, investments in supplemental fire prevention, detection or suppression resources that enhance fire protection in the state and issuing loans to the Oregon Department of Forestry or forest protection associations that relate to wildfire costs. View more information on the EFCC webpage.

Economic Resilience Improves State's Financial Stability

Salem, OR – Carl Riccadonna, state chief economist and Michael Kennedy, senior economist of the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) Office of Economic Analysis (OEA), presented the latest economic outlook and revenue forecast to the legislative committee on finance and revenue. The quarterly revenue forecasts serve to open the revenue forecasting process to public review and is the basis for much of the Oregon state government budgeting process.

What is Different About this Forecast?

The Office of Economic Analysis provides quarterly forecasts for the state of Oregon’s major revenue sources, including all sources contributing to the General Fund (Personal and Corporate Income Tax, etc.), Lottery and the Corporate Activity Tax. The Q4-December economic outlook, while complicated by a lack of government economic statistics resulting from the federal government shutdown, reflects continued economic resilience both nationally and within the state. Recession risks appear to be diminishing, and the forecasts for 2026 has improved modestly.

Revenue Forecast

The revenue forecast for 2025-27 has increased $309.5 million, due largely to recent strength in Corporate Income Tax receipts. Corporate Income Tax exhibits significant quarter-to-quarter volatility, making it one of the more difficult revenue streams to forecast. For all other revenues, mild improvement in the economic landscape and outlook translate into a slight uptick in expected receipts for the biennium. The projected General Fund ending balance has improved, from a deficit of $372.7 million to a deficit of $63.1 million from last quarter.

About the Office of Economic Analysis

The state chief economist oversees the Office of Economic Analysis within the Department of Administrative Services and provides objective forecasts of the state’s economy, revenue, populations, corrections population and Youth Authority population. These forecasts are used across state government, and by the public for a variety of reasons, notably to inform the state budgeting process. For more information about the Office of Economic Analysis and recent forecasts, please visit the OEA website.

Links: https://www.oregon.gov/das/oea/pages/index.aspx.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Contact: Colin Fogarty 

Director of Communications 

ty@oregoncf.org" target="_blank">Cfogarty@oregoncf.org

Oregon Community Foundation and Donors Commit $1.9 Million to Organizations That Feed Hungry Oregonians

Donations and Grants Support Nonprofits Providing Food and Nutrition Services throughout Oregon

PORTLAND, Ore. — The recent disruption in federal food assistance has generated a wave of generosity from Oregonians. In just six weeks, Oregon Community Foundation and its donors have committed $1.9 million to organizations that help get food to Oregonians who need it. 

The surge in giving between October 1 and November 17, 2025 happened when generous Oregonians stepped up to help through Donor Advised Funds, Corporate and Community Advised Funds and donations to the Stronger Together Fund of OCF. Separately, the OCF Board of Directors has approved a $250,000 special grant from OCF to combat food insecurity in Oregon and 18 grants totaling $300,000 to food-related organizations through the OCF Community Grants program. 

Donors Motivated by Disruption to Federal Food Benefits 

Financial support for food and nutrition services spiked in mid-October when news broke that a federal government shutdown would disrupt federal food benefits known as SNAP for 757,000 Oregonians. In response, donors began making grants to nonprofits that feed Oregonians as visits to those organizations increased sharply. 

“Oregonians help their neighbors in times of need,” said Lisa Mensah, President and CEO of Oregon Community Foundation. Mensah also serves on the board of Feeding America, a nationwide network of 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries and programs.  

“When our food bank system said, ‘We have lines out the door and not enough food on our shelves,’ our donors heard the call and said, ‘Not on our watch,’” she said. “I’m so grateful to our donors, philanthropic partners and the nonprofit partners and volunteers who do the hard work of feeding our communities day after day.” 

The disruption to SNAP benefits began November 1. In response, Oregon Community Foundation called on donors to help stabilize and support the network of food banks, food pantries and other organizations that distribute food. Donors responded with contributions flowing into the Stronger Together Fund of Oregon Community Foundation, which is giving all money raised between November 1 and December 5 to food-related nonprofits.  

Hunger Touches Every Community 

A vast network helps feed Oregonians experiencing food insecurity. The Oregon Food Bank partners with 21 regional food banks and more than 1,200 food assistances sites. In addition, many organizations operate food assistance programs outside of the Oregon Food Bank. 

At an Oregon Community Foundation virtual briefing last week, food bank leaders and foundation partners described a system grappling with the twin challenges of a diminished food supply and unprecedented demand.  

Cuts to the federal funding that helps fill food bank shelves reduced the flow of food into Oregon at the same time rising food, housing and energy costs caused more people to visit food banks to make ends meet. The disruption to SNAP benefits put that dynamic, “on steroids,” said Scott Cooper, Executive Director of NeighborImpact. He said his Central Oregon food banks will see nearly 1 million visits this year in a region with soaring housing costs. 

One regional food bank leader described parents parking blocks away from the food bank and arriving with a child on their hip, towing a wagon to fill with food.  

“They need to be fed,” said Lori Garrard, Executive Director of Klamath-Lake Counties Food Bank. 

Marion Polk Food Share President and CEO Rick Gaupo shared about a working mom who lost $500 in food benefits at the start of November. She turned to her local pantry for the first time when she couldn’t get more work.  

Hunger More Common in Rural Areas 

One in eight Oregonians experience hunger, and in rural and remote Oregon, residents face food insecurity rates nearly double those in urban areas. 

Roundhouse Foundation Executive Director Erin Borla shared at the virtual briefing that the private family foundation will give $6 million over the next three years to support rural Oregon food banks. Private foundations including the Ford Family Foundation, Meyer Memorial Trust, the Lora & Martin Kelley Family Foundation and others are also giving generously to food and food-related organizations.  

Borla offered stories of hope from rural communities. 

“I have heard specifically of community dinners in small rural places where they feed 160 people a week. We've got libraries that are showing up with meals on a weekly basis,” Borla said. “There was a high school here locally, and instead of trick-or-treating, the high school students planned and picked up bags of donated food from everybody's porch. People are showing up in a way that really does build community.” 

OCF donors have seen the need up close. 

“Food insecurity doesn’t stop at the city limits,” says Betsy Priddy, an OCF donor. “After visiting Eastern Oregon, I witnessed first-hand the deep relationships forged even in our most remote communities. Local organizations are doing transformative work on modest budgets, proving that impact isn’t measured in dollars alone. For me, it’s simple: I support OCF in deploying resources where they will make the greatest difference.” 

About Oregon Community Foundation 

Since 1973, Oregon Community Foundation has worked to improve the lives of all Oregonians through the power of philanthropy. In partnership with donors and volunteers, OCF strengthens communities in every county in Oregon through grantmaking, scholarships and research. Individuals, families, businesses and organizations can work with OCF to create charitable funds to support causes important to them. To learn more, visit oregoncf.org. 

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PORTLAND, Ore.— Three men associated with the Sureño street gang have been charged with felon in possession of a firearm after the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) engaged in multiple undercover purchases of firearms and machine gun conversion devices.

Cesar Daniel Arevalo, 36, of Portland, Oregon and Jose Luis Brown Ceballos, 35, and Jose Luis Diaz Ceballos, 24, of Salem, Oregon, have been charged by criminal complaint with Felon in Possession of a Firearm.

According to court documents, from July 2025 through November 2025, ATF undercover agents engaged in multiple undercover purchase operations involving Arevalo and his associates. Undercover agents purchased a total of 15 firearms (four modified to machineguns), 58 machinegun conversion devices, and cocaine from Arevalo and his associates, including Diaz Ceballos.

On November 13, 2025, Arevalo, Brown Ceballos, Diaz Ceballos, and a juvenile conducted an armed protection of an undercover narcotics transaction in Salem. When the transaction was completed, the armed suspects were arrested by ATF agents. Four firearms were recovered from the scene.

The ATF and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Bockelman is prosecuting the case.

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

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

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Bend, Ore. -- On Friday, November 14th, 2025, detectives with the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office arrested 22-year-old Sierra Stigall of La Pine on charges involving sexual encounters with a minor.

These crimes occurred between May 2025 and July 2025. DCSO does not believe Stigall was employed by the Bend-La Pine School District during these events. However, Stigall was involved in coaching a U14 travelling baseball team in the La Pine area.

Based on the investigation and an interview with Stigall, she was lodged in the Deschutes County Jail on the following charges:

• Sexual Abuse in the First Degree (X5)
• Sodomy in the Second Degree (X2)
• Sexual Abuse in the Second Degree (X8)
• Rape in the Second Degree (2)
• Luring a Minor (X2)
• Online Sexual Corruption of a Child in the First Degree

Detectives with DCSO have no information concerning additional victims. If you or someone you know have concerns about Stigall having inappropriate contact with minors, please call the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office at (541) 633-6655 and ask for Detective Porter.

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Clackamas County, Ore. (Nov. 18, 2025)- On Sunday, November 16, 2025, at 8:39 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Highway 224, near milepost 14, in Clackamas County.

The preliminary investigation indicated westbound Yamaha R6, operated by Akahieleu Redo (22) of Oregon City, lost control while negotiating a curve, left the roadway, struck a mound of dirt, and went airborne before the motorcycle and rider came to rest in a tree.

The operator of the Yamaha (Redo) was declared deceased at the scene.

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

OSP was assisted by Clackamas Brush Fire Unit 312 and ODOT.

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

At 11:46pm, November 17^th, Bend Fire and Rescue crews were dispatched to a structure fire at a single family home behind Three Sisters Adventist Christian School, off of Tumalo road. The resident reported being woken up to what sounded like a “hail storm.” She didn’t notice any fire inside the home but when she went outside, she found flames coming from under the eaves and roof, near the stovepipe of the woodstove. Due to the absence of smoke in the home at that time, smoke alarms did not go off. Because of their quick actions, all 5 residents, including three children and multiple pets, were able to exit the manufactured home safely.  The fire was ignited from the radiant heat of the woodstove pipe that was too close to the wooden facia board of the eaves. The woodstove pipe melted the vinyl rain gutter and ignited the eaves, which spread to the attic. The fire was contained and did not spread to the interior of the home, however, the water and roof damage makes the home unihabitable.  Building loss is estimated at $65,000 and content loss estimated at $25,000.

We want to remind residents that having a home fire escape plan can be crucial in being able to escape quickly and safely from a house fire. Always have a plan for your family and pets. For help information in creating, practicing and implementing a home fire escape plan with your family, please call Bend Fire & Rescue.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  
Nov. 18, 2025

Media Contact: Communications@employ.oregon.gov

Unemployment Insurance tax and Paid Leave Oregon contribution rates hold steady for 2026
 

SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Employment Department has announced that the tax schedule for Unemployment Insurance (UI) and the contribution rate for Paid Leave Oregon will not change in 2026. Oregon will remain in Tax Schedule 3 for Unemployment Insurance, and the Paid Leave Oregon contribution rate will remain at 1 percent.

“Keeping these rates flat is important for Oregon’s economy, especially as businesses navigate increasing economic uncertainty,” Employment Director Andrew R. Stolfi said. “Both of our trust funds are healthy and stable, and we remain committed to operating these programs as efficiently as possible to minimize the impact on employers.”

Employers can view their specific 2026 rate information in their Frances Online account. The department has also mailed each employer their annual notice of the new rates.

2026 Unemployment Insurance Tax Rate 

The department uses a formula established by Oregon statute to calculate the annual payroll tax rate. Most Oregon employers pay payroll taxes that go into Oregon’s Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund, which is the source of Unemployment Insurance benefits for Oregon workers. Workers do not contribute to this fund or to their unemployment benefits. 

Oregon will remain in Tax Schedule 3 for 2026. The taxable wage base – the maximum amount of wages subject to Unemployment Insurance taxes – is based on the annual average wage in Oregon. OED uses a statutory formula to calculate the annual average wage, which tends to rise annually, largely due to inflation.

Following the increase in Oregon’s annual average wage, the taxable wage base will rise 4.4 percent in 2026, from $54,300 per employee in 2025 to $56,700:

For new employers (those with less than 12 months of reported payroll), the Unemployment Insurance payroll base tax rate will remain at 2.4% for 2026. 

“The fact that we are able to keep the same tax schedule next year, even as the unemployment rate has been rising slowly, is a testament to how well Oregon’s system works compared to other states,” Stolfi added. “As a self-balancing fund, Oregon’s Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund is one of the healthiest in the country.”

The goal of the statutory formula is to reach a balance between revenue and expenditures, where the state takes in about the same amount of money in taxes as it pays out in Unemployment Insurance benefits. The trust fund balance also earns interest, which helps keep employers’ tax rates lower.

2026 Paid Leave Oregon Contribution Rate 

The Paid Leave Oregon contribution rate for 2026 will remain at 1%. The four-year-old trust fund continues to cover benefits as well as the administrative costs to run the program.

Both employers and employees pay contributions to the Paid Leave Oregon Trust Fund, which provides benefits for Oregon workers. Employees pay 60 percent of the rate and employers (with 25 employees or more) pay 40 percent.

The level of subject wages for Paid Leave Oregon contributions, set by the annual Social Security taxable maximum wage amount, will rise 4.7 percent to $184,500 of wages per employee in 2026, also generally due to inflation.

“Local businesses are the heart of Oregon’s economy, so we want to make it as easy as possible to manage their payroll reporting and employee benefit requests,” Stolfi said. “We are here to help employers through every step of this important process.”

The overall UI tax and Paid Leave Contribution rates for 2025 and 2026 are posted on the Employment Department website at employers.oregon.gov.

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About Unemployment Insurance

Oregon’s Unemployment Insurance Program supports people and communities when facing economic uncertainty. For those who are unemployed through no fault of their own, the temporary, partial wage replacement offers financial security while seeking new work. Benefit payments also soften the local economic shock caused by layoffs and help keep skilled workers in their communities. Benefits come from Oregon employers’ payroll taxes, not workers’ paychecks. Learn more at unemployment.oregon.gov.

About Paid Leave Oregon

Paid Leave Oregon provides temporary, paid time away from work so employees can have financial security when experiencing significant life events. Covered events include welcoming a new child, recovering from a serious health condition, caring for a family member with a serious health condition, or addressing issues related to sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, or harassment. Paid leave benefits help Oregonians stay connected to their jobs and maintain financial stability during these major personal events. Learn more at paidleave.orogon.gov.

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.

November 18, 2025

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

Recreational use advisory lifted for Hells Canyon Reservoir

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

PORTLAND, Ore.—Oregon Health Authority (OHA) has lifted the recreational use health advisory issued for Hells Canyon Reservoir in Baker and Wallowa Counties.

OHA issued the advisory Aug 20.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland, Oregon, man made his initial appearance yesterday in federal court after trespassing on the grounds of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) building, failing to obey a lawful order, and obstructing federal property.

Christopher Griffin, 37, has been charged by information with Failing to Obey a Lawful Order, Obstructing Federal Property, and Trespassing on Federal Property.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 16, 2025, Griffin entered the grounds of the ICE building in Portland. Griffin remained on the grounds, failing to comply with the lawful direction of federal officers and was arrested. Griffin was also charged with failing to comply with an officer’s orders to leave the premises on October 22, 2025, and for obstructing the use and access to federal property on November 14, 2025.

Griffin made his first appearance in federal court yesterday before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was ordered released pending further court proceedings. As part of his release conditions, Griffin was ordered to stay away from the ICE building.

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

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

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  
Nov. 18, 2025

Media Contact: Communications@employ.oregon.gov

MEDIA ADVISORY

Federal shutdown delays Oregon Employment Department’s monthly economic reporting
 

SALEM, Ore. — Although the federal shutdown has ended and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) has resumed operations, the Oregon Employment Department (OED) is not able to prepare its monthly statewide employment report this week as originally scheduled due to a continued lack of federal data.OED was also unable to prepare a full report in October for the same reason.

The next monthly report was scheduled to be released on Wednesday, Nov. 19.The Employment Department has also canceled its monthly media briefing on Thursday, Nov. 20.

OED is in close communication with BLS officials and is awaiting information and guidance about federal survey data for the months of September and October that were impacted by the shutdown. OED uses that data to prepare the monthly report, including the state’s unemployment rate and nonfarm payroll employment.

OED hopes to have more information soon and will provide an update on the schedule for releasing payroll and unemployment data when it is available.

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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.

This Saturday, November 22, the Bend Firefighters will host their annual Moustache Bash – a fundraiser supporting the Bend Firefighter’s Community Assistance Program. The fundraiser will take place from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at 10 Barrel Brewing – East (62950 NE 18^th Street, Bend).

Community members are invited to dress up as their favorite action hero and join in on the fun while supporting a good cause.

Bash-goers will have opportunities to win prizes throughout the evening. Activities include:

• Costume Contest - This year’s theme is action heroes – suit up and have a chance to win!
• Moustache Contest - Featuring categories for everyone – including fake moustaches.
• Raffle – Raffle tickets are available for purchase. Enter to win one of many prizes donated by local businesses.

The Bend Firefighter’s Community Assistance Program is a nonprofit started by Bend firefighters to help meet identified needs and respond to crises in the Bend community. Firefighters often encounter difficult situations where families require help beyond traditional fire department services.

Learn more about the Bend Fire Community Assistance Program or donate today at bendcommunityassistance.org. 

At 1136 hours on Friday, November 14 2025, Bend Fire & Rescue was dispatched to a reported garage fire on River Bend Drive in the Deschutes River Woods area.  First arriving crews found a working fire on the back side of the garage that was beginning to extend toward the residence.  The occupant had evacuated the home with her dog and was a safe distance from structures.  Crews were able to knock down the fire quickly, limiting damage to the residence to some charring on the exterior porch railing.  The garage sustained moderate fire damage, with radiant heat and smoke damage to the contents of the garage.  A lean-to structure attached to the back of the garage was a complete loss.  

Upon investigation, it was found that ashes and char from a previous debris burn had been placed into a plastic bag and set at the edge of the lean-to structure, which was used to store firewood.  Ashes can remain hot for several days, particularly if there are larger pieces present within the ash.  Bend Fire & Rescue recommends that ash, whether from a debris burn, the fireplace, or the woodstove, be placed into a metal container with a lid (never a paper or plastic bag) and put outdoors onto a non-combustible surface such as concrete, metal, or bare dirt.  Fill the bucket with water, and wait at least 24-48 hours before disposing of the material.  For more home fire safety information, visit Informational Videos and Virtual Tours | City of Bend.